Document Document Title
US08413259B2 Methods and systems for secure gated file deployment associated with provisioning
A software provisioning server can be configured to communicate with a certificate authority to evaluate security credential requests received from one or more target machines prior to a software installation. The certificate authority can issue certificates to the one or more target machines and notify an administrator and the software provisioning server of the issued certificates. The software provisioning server can manage the software installation to the one or more target machines based on the issued certificates and other specifications.
US08413238B1 Monitoring darknet access to identify malicious activity
Systems, methods and apparatus for a distributed security that monitors communications to identify access attempts to/from darknet addresses. Such attempts can be inferred to be associated with malicious activity and a notification or other corrective action can be provided identifying such potentially malicious activity.
US08413236B1 Clickjacking protection
A clickjacking protector in an electronic system helps prevent unwanted clickjacking. The elements clicked on by the click position are evaluated to determine whether any of the elements clicked on by the click position is obscured (including being transparent or partially transparent). A protective action is generated in response to a determination that an element clicked on by the click position is obscured.
US08413228B2 Signal transfer point front end processor
In an SS7 network, each of a plurality of Signal Transfer Points is fronted by a front-end processor (STP-FEP) that has a network presence. The STP-FEP implements at least the MTP2 layer of the SS7 protocol stack and implements security rules at the MTP2 and MTP3 layers.
US08413227B2 Apparatus and method supporting wireless access to multiple security layers in an industrial control and automation system or other system
A method includes receiving a message at a first wireless node. The first wireless node is associated with a first wired network, and the first wired network is associated with a first security layer. The method also includes transmitting the message over the first wired network when at least one destination of the message is located in the first security layer. The method further includes wirelessly transmitting the message for delivery to a second wireless node when at least one destination of the message is located in a second security layer. The second wireless node is associated with a second wired network, and the second wired network is associated with the second security layer. The first and second security layers may be associated with different security paradigms and/or different security domains. Also, the message could be associated with destinations in the first and second security layers.
US08413221B2 Methods and apparatus for delegated authentication
An authentication-delegating service implemented in an authentication server or other processing device is configured to receive a request from a relying party for delegated authentication information associated with a particular user, to determine a level of trust associated with the relying party, and to provide the delegated authentication information to the relying party if the relying party has a sufficient level of trust, so as to permit the relying party to authenticate the user based on the delegated authentication information. The delegated authentication information has the property that the user can be presently authenticated based on such information. The delegated authentication information may comprise, for example, at least one value derived from a one-time password or other authentication credential of the particular user. The authentication-delegating service may be graded to provide different types of delegated authentication information based on respective levels of trust that may be associated with relying parties.
US08413216B2 Network stimulation engine
Methods, devices, and systems are disclosed for simulating a large, realistic computer network. Virtual actors statistically emulate the behaviors of humans using networked devices or responses and automatic functions of networked equipment, and their stochastic actions are queued in buffer pools by a behavioral engine. An abstract machine engine creates the minimal interfaces needed for each actor, and the interfaces then communicate persistently over a network with each other and real and virtual network resources to form realistic network traffic. The network can respond to outside stimuli, such as a network mapping application, by responding with false views of the network in order to spoof hackers, and the actors can respond by altering a software defined network upon which they operate.
US08413207B2 Remote control terminal, information acquiring apparatus, information providing apparatus, information providing system, information providing method, and program
A commander includes a program identification information acquiring unit which acquires program identification information to designate a program to be watched by a receiving terminal, a channel selection control unit which remote-controls a channel selecting process by the receiving terminal based on program identification information, a scenario information acquiring unit which acquires scenario information included in electronic content guide information related to the program from an ECG server based on the program identification information, a display unit which displays the scenario information related to the program, and a display control unit which can control a display of the scenario information to change a display state of the scenario information related to the program depending on a display state of the scenario information on the receiving terminal based on predetermined setting information or predetermined operation information. Therefore, efficient use and effective provision of program meta information can be obtained.
US08413205B2 System and method for construction, delivery and display of iTV content
iTV content is created and deployed using a server component adapted to allow content developers to create applications according to an authoring specification that describes a framework for same; a transport component including an operator-deployed application management system configured to optimize and deliver the applications to one or more clients; and a client component adapted to render the applications through a television so as to permit user interaction therewith. The authoring specification provides for the presentation of content through one or more templates defined therein, allowing application definition and behavior to remain common across multiple client device types, middleware platforms, and/or iTV operating environments. The framework for applications accommodates advertising, promotions, content placement packages and/or programming campaign definitions, so as to permit a selection of a specific advertisement, promotion or content at a time of preparation of the iTV content by the server, and/or a time of execution of the applications by the client.
US08413203B2 Program recording and playing apparatus and portable terminal for recording and playing programs
A broadcast program recording and playing apparatus includes a program management unit that manages a database storing program information for broadcast programs. A transmission unit transmits the program information stored in the database to an electronic apparatus using wireless communication. Under the control of the electronic apparatus, a control unit controls an apparatus having functions of recording and playing the broadcast programs.
US08413200B2 Cable television viewing statistics
A cable television method for a cable television network involves sending a polling message to a modem forming a part of a television set top box from a cable television headend via a cable television cable connection to the set top box; wherein the polling message instructs the cable television set top box to report a currently tuned channel of the television set top box; receiving a response message from the cable television set top box transmitted by the modem and containing the currently tuned channel of the television set top box; and compiling the currently tuned channel information from a plurality of set top boxes received in response messages to determine actual program viewing statistics for a television time slot during which the polling responses were sent. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
US08413192B2 Video content viewing apparatus
A multifunction video navigation display is achieved without adding an extra load onto hardware or software of a viewing apparatus. In such a video content viewing apparatus, a memory unit acquires video contents and metadata to execute video navigation functions from an external server and stores them, a metadata analysis unit verifies completeness of the acquired metadata and corrects/complements an incomplete portion of the metadata, and a navigation unit executes the selected video navigation function according to an analysis result provided from the metadata analysis unit.
US08413191B2 Program guide with a digital storage device
An interactive television program guide system with digital storage is provided. The program guide gives users the ability to select a program for recording onto the digital storage device. The program guide may then provide the user a list of programs that includes at least one listing for a recorded program. The user may select a recorded program listing and the program guide will transfer the corresponding program from the digital storage device to a secondary storage device.
US08413189B1 Dynamic selection of advertising content in a social broadcast environment
A method of determining advertising content to be included in a broadcast is disclosed. An inclusion criterion is received for each of a plurality of items of advertising content to be used to determine one or both of whether and how that item of advertising content is to be included in a broadcast. Stored user profile data associated with a plurality of users who provided within an observation period an indication that the user was consuming the broadcast is processed, and the respective inclusion criteria of the items of advertising content, to select and integrate into the broadcast selected ones of the items of advertising content.
US08413183B2 System and method for transmitting and displaying targeted information
A system and method for transmitting and displaying information in a television distribution system (10), or the like, transmits information that is targeted to a viewer matching particular demographic data.
US08413178B2 Disk device
A disk device includes a frame, an optical pickup and a shock absorbing component. The frame has a receiving component. The optical pickup is slidable with respect to the frame. The shock absorbing component is fixedly coupled to the optical pickup and arranged to selectively contact the receiving component of the frame. The shock absorbing component includes a support portion and a spring piece. The spring piece has a first end portion that is fixedly coupled to the optical pickup and a second end portion that is spaced from the support portion in an unloaded rest state and that contacts the support portion to support the spring piece at both the first and second end portions with respect to the optical pickup when the spring piece is pushed by the receiving component of the frame to a loaded state.
US08413177B2 Information-processing equipment
There is provided an information-processing equipment including an optical disc drive 40 within a chassis 31 thereof, the optical disc drive comprising: a turntable 41 for rotatably supporting an optical disc; an optical pickup 42 for recording an information signal onto the optical disc and/or reproducing an information signal recorded on the optical disc, and a movement mechanism 43 for moving the optical pickup in a radial direction of the optical disc; wherein a step part 37 extending in a predetermined direction Ls is formed on an inner surface of the chassis in an area where the optical disc drive is to be fixed, and wherein the optical disc drive is fixed in the area on the inner surface of the chassis at three portions 46A, 46B, 46C positioned straddling the step part.
US08413172B2 Method and system for socket API call emulation
A method and system for socket API call emulation facilitates communication between an application and non-networked I/O devices. The present invention intercepts and modifies IP-aware socket API calls en route from the application to non-networked I/O devices so that such calls are received by non-networked I/O devices as IP-unaware I/O access calls. The invention allows the application to use socket API calls to communicate with all entity types and thereby relieves an application developer of the burden to write and debug/edit separate code and documentation for non-networked I/O device types with which an application is expected to communicate. Socket API call emulation is in some embodiments performed by an emulation module within a socket API operatively coupled between an application and a device driver associated with a non-networked I/O device.
US08413167B2 Notifying a user of access to information by an application
Functionality is described for detecting an application's access to a user's information (or the application's request to access the user's information). The functionality sends a notification to the user which alerts the user to the access that has already taken place (or is pending approval). The functionality detects the current point of presence of the user, and based thereon, sends the notification to the user in an appropriate manner. Upon receipt of the notification, the user may optionally retrieve additional information regarding the application's access activity, modify the access rights of the application, and so on.
US08413166B2 Multithreaded physics engine with impulse propagation
A circuit arrangement and method implement impulse propagation in a multithreaded physics engine by assigning ownership of objects in a scene to individual threads and propagating impulses between objects that are in contact with one another by passing inter-thread impulse messages between the threads that own the contacting objects, while locally propagating impulses through objects using the threads to which such objects are assigned.
US08413163B2 Program control device including per-timeslot switching of thread execution
Provided is a program control device which switches, per timeslot, between threads to be executed. The program control device includes: a first interrupt creation unit which creates a first interrupt signal which designates a timeslot as a destination; and a first receiving unit which [i] does not receive the first interrupt signal if the timeslot as the destination is not a current timeslot, and [ii] receives the first interrupt signal if the timeslot as the destination is the current timeslot.
US08413162B1 Multi-threading based on rollback
Methods of multi-threading, and systems thereof, are described. A first thread is executed. Context for the executing thread is maintained in a working register. Execution of the first thread is halted and execution of a second thread is begun by performing a rollback operation. The rollback operation causes context for the second thread to be copied from a first register into the working register.
US08413161B2 Work queue selection on a local processor within a multiple processor architecture
A method and system is disclosed for selecting a work queue associated with a processor within a multiple processor architecture to assign a new task. A local and a remote queue availability flag is maintained to indicate a relative size of work queues, in relationship to a mean queue size, for each processor in a multiple processor architecture. In determining to which processor to assign a task, the processor evaluates its own queue size by examining its local queue availability flag and evaluates other processor's queue sizes by examining their remote queue availability flags. The local queue availability flags are maintained asynchronously from task assignment. Remote flags are maintained at time of task assignment. The presented algorithm provides improved local processor queue size determinations in systems where task distribution processes execute with lower priorities that other tasks.
US08413159B2 Classifying workload for a service
In one example embodiment, a machine implemented method is provided. The method comprises sampling a plurality of values of a parameter associated with a software service by monitoring said parameter; determining a workload signature for the software service based on statistical analysis performed during a first sampling period; and classifying the workload of said software service by selecting, based on said plurality of values, a first workload classification from a plurality of predefined workload classifications, wherein the workload of the software service is reclassified to a second workload classification, based on a workload signature calculated during a second sampling period.
US08413156B2 Method and system for managing resource connections
Methods and system for managing resource connections are described. In one embodiment, a user request associated with a centralized resource may be received. Availability of a connection to the centralized resource may be determined. A stagger delay for connection creation may be determined. The stagger delay may define a delay for creation of a new connection. The new connection to the centralized resource may be created based on the determining of whether the connection to the centralized resource is available and the delay interval. The new connection may be utilized to process the user request.
US08413155B2 System and method for a self-optimizing reservation in time of compute resources
A system and method of dynamically controlling a reservation of resources within a cluster environment to maximize a response time are disclosed. The method embodiment of the invention comprises receiving from a requester a request for a reservation of resources in the cluster environment, reserving a first group of resources, evaluating resources within the cluster environment to determine if the response time can be improved and if the response time can be improved, then canceling the reservation for the first group of resources and reserving a second group of resources to process the request at the improved response time.
US08413152B2 Job scheduler, job scheduling method, and job control program storage medium
To provide a job scheduler, a job scheduling method, and a job control program that are capable of, even with an incapable CPU not equipped with a real-time OS, meeting basic real-time property that is required in a system. The job scheduler is a job scheduler 5 for calling each of a plurality of jobs for controlling an appliance to a main loop and causing each job to be executed. The job scheduler 5 carries out calling control including: dividing the jobs into a plurality of groups according to a degree of need for real-time processing of each jobs; setting a priority on a group basis; and restricting a calling frequency, per cycle, of a job belonging to a group of low priority to a minimum tolerated frequency.
US08413150B2 Systems and methods for data aware workflow change management
A method includes providing a baseline workflow as an electronic representation of an actual workflow, the baseline workflow including baseline tasks, data items, and baseline data scopes, and providing a fragment workflow as an electronic representation of an actual fragment workflow, the fragment workflow including at least one fragment task, and at least one fragment data scope. A baseline data scope is identified as an affected data scope based on a structural change operation, the baseline workflow and the fragment workflow, and the affected data scope is compared to the at least one fragment data scope to identify at least one change operation. The fragment and baseline workflows are integrated based on the structural change operation to provide an integrated workflow, and the at least one data scope change operation is executed to provide at least one integrated data scope in the integrated workflow.
US08413146B1 Hypervisor assisted single instance data access by multiple virtual machines
A data instance to be shared by multiple virtual machines is stored at a hypervisor level. A file system driver is provided to each virtual machine. Each virtual machine mounts a file system backed by the data instance, and thus has read access to the data through its mounted file system. A virtual machine is suspended. A copy of the data instance is saved as part of the stored image of the suspended virtual machine. The suspended virtual machine is subsequently restored from the stored image, and the copy of the data instance is present in the restored virtual machine. The copy of the data instance is detected at a hypervisor level, and the restored virtual machine is provided with read access to the data instance through its mounted filed system.
US08413145B2 Method and apparatus for efficient memory replication for high availability (HA) protection of a virtual machine (VM)
High availability (HA) protection is provided for an executing virtual machine. At a checkpoint in the HA process, the active server suspends the virtual machine; and the active server copies dirty memory pages to a buffer. During the suspension of the virtual machine on the active host server, dirty memory pages are copied to a ring buffer. A copy process copies the dirty pages to a first location in the buffer. At a predetermined benchmark or threshold, a transmission process can begin. The transmission process can read data out of the buffer at a second location to send to the standby host. Both the copy and transmission processes can operate substantially simultaneously on the ring buffer. As such, the ring buffer cannot overflow because the transmission process continues to empty the ring buffer as the copy process continues. This arrangement allows for smaller buffers and prevents buffer overflows.
US08413141B2 Copying segments of virtual resource definition to create and deploy a virtual resource on a physical resource
The disclosure and claims herein are directed to copying segments of a virtual resource definition from an existing virtual resource to create a new virtual resource definition or modifying an existing one to simplify virtualization management. The virtualization manager divides a virtual resource definition into a number of reusable segments. A user may then select one or more segments and place them into a new or existing virtual resource definition. The user can choose to mix and match segments to quickly create or modify a virtual resource definition such as a virtual server, virtual printer or virtual data storage. Any default information in the new virtual resource or old information in the existing resource is replaced by the information in the copied segment. Any dependencies in the existing virtual resource are resolved with user input to break the dependencies or copy dependent data.
US08413135B2 Methods, systems, and computer program products for controlling software application installations
Methods, systems, and computer program products that automatically control the installation of software applications on a device are provided. The installation of a software application on a device is detected. The installation is temporarily halted and information about the detected software application installation is collected. A danger level of the detected software application is assessed based upon the collected information. Installation of the detected software application is allowed to continue if the assessed danger level is below a threshold level and installation of the detected software application is terminated if the assessed danger level is above the threshold level.
US08413127B2 Fine-grained software-directed data prefetching using integrated high-level and low-level code analysis optimizations
A mechanism for minimizing effective memory latency without unnecessary cost through fine-grained software-directed data prefetching using integrated high-level and low-level code analysis and optimizations is provided. The mechanism identifies and classifies streams, identifies data that is most likely to incur a cache miss, exploits effective hardware prefetching to determine the proper number of streams to be prefetched, exploits effective data prefetching on different types of streams in order to eliminate redundant prefetching and avoid cache pollution, and uses high-level transformations with integrated lower level cost analysis in the instruction scheduler to schedule prefetch instructions effectively.
US08413114B1 Method to simplify developing software having localization
A method is provided for displaying a numeric property value. The method includes (a) reading a file from a tangible computer-readable storage medium, the file containing a set of property display patterns, (b) extracting a particular property display code from the file, the particular property display pattern corresponding to the numeric property value to be displayed, (c) extracting a unit of measure and a reference to a conversion function from the particular property display pattern, (d) calling the referenced conversion function to perform a unit conversion on the numeric property value to convert from an internal unit of measure into an display unit of measure, and (e) displaying the converted numeric property value and the extracted unit of measure to a user. In another embodiment, software is provided for executing this method. Additional methods are provided for developing software.
US08413106B1 Transaction level model synthesis
Converting from transaction level model to register transfer level. A method comprises accessing a transaction level model description. Function calls in the transaction level model description are automatically converted to signal accesses in a register transfer level description. Interlace logic is automatically generated in the register transfer level description. The interface logic provides an interface between a bus interface and the signal accesses. The register transfer level description is stored in a computer readable medium.
US08413098B2 T-connections, methodology for designing T-connections, and compact modeling of T-connections
T-connections, methodology for designing T-connections, and compact modeling of T-connections. The T-connections include an electrically conductive T-junction comprising a body and first, second and third integral arms projecting from mutually perpendicular sides of the body, each arm of the three integral arms having a same first width abutting the body and a same length extending away from the body; an electrically conductive step-junction comprising a first section having the first width and an integral and abutting second section having a second width, the second width different from the first width, the first section smoothly abutting and integral with the first arm of the T-junction; and wherein top surfaces of the T-junction and the step-junction are coplanar.
US08413095B1 Statistical single library including on chip variation for rapid timing and power analysis
A statistical single library that includes on-chip variation (OCV) is created for timing and power analysis of a digital chip design. Initially, library values for all cells of a digital chip design, including ranges for environmental and process parameters, are subject to a statistical model to create statistical timing for the ranges of the parameters. A statistical timing tool is applied across the ranges of the parameters to determine statistical corners for delay and input power to a subset of cells. The statistically determined delay and input power to the subset of cells is entered into the statistical single library. Each delay of each statistical corner for the subset of cells is compared with a chip sign-off statistical delay requirement of a test macro.
US08413093B1 Method and mechanism for performing region query using hierarchical grids
Disclosed is an improved approach for managing, tracking, and querying hierarchical data in layouts. According to some aspects, hierarchical grids are employed utilizing a scheme that organizes physical objects into a set of gradually refined grids that avoids the need to maintain duplicates while enhancing the desirable characteristics of existing schemes, including fast query times, fast data structure initialization and reduced memory footprint. Each grid-cell may be further partitioned into sub-containers to more efficiently provide space pruning during query operations. According to one approach, structures maintained to track existence of objects in a descendent hierarchy.
US08413090B1 Temporal decomposition for design and verification
Behavior of a finite state machine is represented by unfolding a transition relation that represents combinational logic behavior of the finite state machine into a sequence of transition relations representing combinational logic behavior of the finite state machine in a sequence of time frames. At least one state is determined in a transition relation in the sequence that cannot be reached in a subsequent transition relation in the sequence. A subsequent transition relation in the sequence in which the at least one state cannot be reached is simplified with respect to the at least one unreachable state.
US08413083B2 Mask system employing substantially circular optical proximity correction target and method of manufacture thereof
A method of manufacture of a mask system includes: providing design data; generating a substantially circular optical proximity correction target from the design data; biasing a segment of the substantially circular optical proximity correction target; and generating mask data based on the shape produced by biasing the segment of the substantially circular optical proximity correction target.
US08413074B2 Mechanism for collaboratively exchanging navigation information in a distributed document review
A mechanism for enabling nodes on a network to collaboratively exchange sets of rendering information respecting a file. Each node maintains its own copy of the file, and each node may access its copy of the file. Whenever a node does access the locations of the file, that node sends out a rendering information message. The rendering information message comprises the set of rendering information for the file that has been updated. The rendering information message is forwarded to each of the other nodes. When each of the other nodes receives the rendering information message, it stores the set of rendering information contained therein to a rendering history associated with a user. In this manner, histories of access in the file by all users are exchanged among the nodes, and the user on each node is able to see rendering information generated by users on the other nodes.
US08413071B2 Image processing apparatus and method
An image processing apparatus and an image processing method are provided. The image processing apparatus includes: a video processor which processes and displays an image; a receiver which receives a user's selection; and a controller which controls the video processor to display a plurality of password input screens each including a plurality of keys, display a key corresponding to the user's selection on a selected password input screen, and display a random key on at least one other password input screen from the plurality of password input screens which is different from the selected password input screen.
US08413070B1 Declarative resizeable list in electronic form
Some embodiments may provide a method comprising accessing a list descriptor declaratively specifying a resizeability indication, selecting, responsively to the resizeability indication, a first linear size for a first list rendering, the first list rendering being based on the list descriptor, and generating the first list rendering based on the list descriptor and the first linear size.
US08413067B2 Graphical icon presentation
Aspects of this disclosure may be directed to one or more techniques for a mobile device to present a graphical user-interface with different graphical user-interface layouts. The mobile device may present the different graphical user-interface layouts based on whether the mobile device is resting or not resting against a surface. For example, the mobile device may present a graphical user-interface layout that is more conducive for user interface when the mobile device is not held against a surface. The mobile device may present another graphical user-interface layout that is more conducive for user interaction when the mobile device is held against a surface.
US08413064B2 Method and apparatus for graphically indicating the progress of multiple parts of a task
In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method for graphically indicating a progress of multiple parts of a task involves 1) dividing the task, as a whole, into a plurality of work units, and 2) as the task is executed, and for each of the work units, separately indicating, via a graphical user interface, whether work was performed for each task part during each work unit. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
US08413060B1 Methods and systems for visually distinguishing user attribute similarities and differences
Methods, computer-readable storage media, and systems are provided to facilitate visually distinguishing common attributes of users an electronic communication network or messaging service. In particular, user profile attributes are compared between a first and second user, and similar attributes are visually highlighted by assigning, for example, a distinct font, font size, color, font effect, and/or other visual effect to the user's screen name to designate which attributes are similar. In addition, or alternatively, when the first user views a user profile of the second user, common user attributes are visually highlighted. In one embodiment, the font, font size, color, and/or font effect assigned to the highlighted attribute indicates a degree of similarity of the attribute. Such implementations may allow users to more easily recognize and interact with others that have similar interests and attributes.
US08413058B1 Systems and methods for click-to-callback
Click-to-callback provides an icon or link on a webpage that a user can select or click on. When the icon or link is clicked or otherwise selected, the user is provided with a list of his phone numbers to choose from, or a blank field to enter an alternate number, for an immediate return call from a representative of the entity (e.g., the company) associated with the webpage. When this request is submitted, the representative desirably calls the user back immediately (e.g., within about 10 seconds) to provide assistance. Thus, the user remains on the website, and gets the help he desires to continue on the website, which may, for example, lead to the user making an online purchase.
US08413054B2 Graphical user interface for still image capture from video footage
A graphical user interface includes a first display area configured to display a first image. The first image is associated with a capture time. The graphical user interface also includes a second display area configured to display a second image and a third display area configured to display a third image. The graphical user interface further includes a user input device.
US08413053B2 Video reproducing apparatus and video reproducing method
In one embodiment, a video reproducing apparatus includes: a module that acquires a distance image including distance information between a user and a distance sensor; a module that calculates a distance-based center of the user based on the distance image; a module that calculates a user instruction coordinate based on a relationship between the distance information and the distance-based center; a module that sets a reference plane based on the distance-based center, and calculates a distance between the distance sensor and the reference plane; a module that acquires, from the distance image, an image of the user that is located between the distance sensor and the reference plane, and generates a user instruction image based on the acquired image; a module that generates an operation subject image; and a module that combines the user instruction image with the operation subject image.
US08413047B2 Concurrent parsing and processing of HTML and JAVASCRIPT®
The aspects enable a processor to concurrently execute markup language code (e.g., HTML) having embedded scripting language code (e.g., JAVASCRIPT®) during a page load operation by a browser. A markup language parser parses markup language code until embedded scripting language code is encountered. The segment of embedded scripting language code is extracted for execution by a scripting language engine which proceeds concurrently with speculative parsing of the markup language code. Markup language code generated by execution of scripting language code is evaluated to determine if it is well formed, and a partial rollback of the markup language parse and re-parsing of portions of the markup language code is accomplished if not. Concurrent parsing of markup language code and execution of scripting language code, with partial roll back of the parsing process when necessary, continues until all markup language code has been parsed and all scripting language code has been executed.
US08413039B2 Computer-implemented system and method for conducting field inspections and generating reports
A system for conducting inspections and generating reports comprising: a device equipped with a global positioning system, a camera and broadband wireless Internet access and on which is installed a client application that comprises an inspection form; a Web services layer; a server; and a browser for accessing a Web application. A field worker enters data into the inspection form, the client application creates one or more records based on the data entered by the field worker, and the Web services layer transmits the record(s) to the server in real time if Internet access is available. The Web application enables a user to view records in real time and create reports based on the records transmitted to the server. A method for conducting inspections and generating reports utilizing the system described above.
US08413038B2 System for downloading digital content published in a media channel
There is provided a system for downloading digital content to a portable media player, the digital content being published in a media channel by a content creator. The system may reside on a server accessible via the Internet. The system may comprise: a data receiver module to receive the digital content from the media channel via a communication medium; a conversion module to convert the received digital content to at least one format for consumption by the player; and a download module to copy the at least one file to the portable media player. The system may further comprise a player detection module to detect file formats compatible with the portable media player. A corresponding method is also disclosed.
US08413037B2 User selection of flaw present within digitally scanned document
A page of a digitally scanned document and graphical user interface elements (GUI) are displayed. Each GUI element corresponds to a potential flaw within the page and includes an example image of the potential flaw. After the GUI elements are displayed, a user is permitted to select a user-detected flaw present within the page of the digitally scanned document by selecting one of the GUI elements.
US08413036B2 Pseudorandom binary sequence checker with control circuitry for end-of-test check
Control circuitry is coupled between an error event output and a data input of a pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS) checker. The control circuitry is configured to switch between a first operating state in which a received PRBS signal is applied to the data input of the PRBS checker and a second operating state in which an error signal is applied to the data input of the PRBS checker, responsive to detection of a designated condition of the PRBS checker. In an illustrative embodiment, the designated condition is an end-of-test condition indicating that the PRBS checker has completed a test involving the received PRBS signal.
US08413031B2 Methods, apparatus, and systems for updating loglikelihood ratio information in an nT implementation of a Viterbi decoder
Methods and circuits comprising a reliability measurement unit (RMU) for generating log-likelihood ratio (LLR) values corresponding to 1T for use in a soft output Viterbi algorithm (“SOVA”) decoder. The RMU operates with an nT clock signal. 1T signals generated by an add, compare, select circuit (ACS) of the SOVA generates 1T decision data and a path equivalency detector generates 1T path equivalency information for 1T SOVA decoding and applies the 1T data to the RMU operating with an nT clock frequency (1/n'th that of the 1T clock signal). The nT RMU receives a plurality of 1T inputs on each nT clock signal pulse and generates 1T LLR information for use by the SOVA decoder. Other components of the SOVA may also operate using the nT clock signal pulse or may operate using a 1T clock signal.
US08413025B2 Method of handling packet loss using error-correcting codes and block rearrangement
A method of handling packet loss uses error-correcting codes and block rearrangement. This method divides the original data stream into data blocks, then codes the blocks by error-correcting codes. After coding the blocks, rearranges the coding blocks for spreading original data into new blocks and then transmitting the new blocks.After receiving the transmitted blocks, reverse-rearrangs the received blocks and decode the blocks. Combine the decoded blocks into original data stream in the end.
US08413017B2 Method for transmitting a data transfer block and method and system for transferring a data transfer block
A method for transmitting a data transfer block, the data transfer block comprising at least one data segment having a predetermined number of one or more data units, to be identified using validity information, and a header segment, the method including the following steps: a) writing a data unit into a first area of an output register predetermined for the data segment, from which the buffered data transfer block is transmitted via a bus system at a predetermined transmission instant with the aid of a time multiplexing method; b) writing a validity datum, implemented as a toggle bit or as an N-bit counter, into a second area of the output register predetermined for the header segment, the particular validity datum specifying the validity of the corresponding written data unit; c) enabling the data transfer block buffered in the output register for transmission, after the particular data unit and the corresponding validity datum are written into the output register; d) repeating steps (a) through (c) until the predetermined number of the data units and the corresponding validity data are written or the predetermined transmission instant is reached; and e) transmitting the enabled data transfer block buffered in the output register at the transmission instant.
US08413015B2 Nonvolatile memory controller with scalable pipelined error correction
A nonvolatile memory system includes a memory controller in communication with multiple memory dies through multiple memory interfaces. Multiple ECC blocks are provided to decode data from the multiple memory interfaces. ECC blocks are provided with a clock signal that may have a frequency that is lower than another clock signal that is provided to a host interface.
US08413013B2 Memory system
A memory system including: a memory device; an ECC system installed in the memory device so as to generate a warning signal in case there are uncorrectable errors; an address generating circuit for generating internal addresses in place of bad area addresses in accordance with the waning signal, the progressing of the internal addresses being selected as to avoid address collision with the address progressing of the memory device at least at the beginning; and a CAM for storing the internal addresses as substitutive area addresses, the CAM being referred to at an access time of the memory device so as to generate the substitutive area addresses in place of the bad area addresses in accordance with the warning signal.
US08413010B1 Data storage device employing high quality metrics when decoding logical block address appended to a data sector
A data storage device is disclosed that receives a read command from a host, wherein the read command comprises a read logical block address (LBA_R). A target data sector is read in response to the LBA_R to generate a read signal. The read signal is processed to detect user data and redundancy data using a soft-output detector that outputs quality metrics for the user data and redundancy data. A high quality metric is assigned to the LBA_R, and errors are corrected in the user data using an error correction code (ECC) decoder in response to the quality metrics output by the soft-output detector and the quality metrics assigned to the LBA_R.
US08413005B2 Method and apparatus for retransmission
Provided is a method in which a terminal conducts an operation for retransmission using a frame divided into downlink subframes and uplink subframes, the method including: receiving a data burst transmitted from a base station; determining a feedback frame offset based on the relationship between a range determined based on division information of the frame and a downlink subframe index in which the data burst has been transmitted; determining indices of a frame and uplink subframe for transmitting a feedback signal based on the frame offset; transmitting the feedback signal to the base station in the determined indices of the frame and uplink subframe; and if an NACK message is included in the feedback signal, receiving the data burst retransmitted from the base station.
US08412997B2 Method and system for message retransmission and intersystem message delivery
The present invention discloses a method and a system for resending messages with a minimized number of retries and maximized timeliness of delivering the message to the receiving party. The method sets a retry period for a message that needs to be resent, determines a retry time according to the retry period, and sends the message after the retry time is reached. The retry period increases as the number of retries increases. The method and the system can ensure reliable delivery of notification messages and support many transmission protocols between different systems, does not require the receiving party to implement complicated interaction protocols to reliably receive a notification message, and is suitable for widespread use in the Internet. Moreover, the disclosure supports multiple transaction processing, can be used as a common business transaction application platform, and allows flexible expansion of multiple transactions and multiple protocols.
US08412995B2 TAP and AUX with IR control of TDI input multiplexer
The present disclosure describes novel methods and apparatuses for directly accessing JTAG Tap domains that exist in a scan path of many serially connected JTAG Tap domains. Direct scan access to a selected Tap domain by a JTAG controller is achieved using auxiliary digital or analog terminals associated with the Tap domain and connected to the JTAG controller. During direct scan access, the auxiliary digital or analog terminals serve as serial data input and serial data output paths between the selected Tap domain and the JTAG controller.
US08412993B2 Self-adjusting critical path timing of multi-core VLSI chip
A method for adjusting timing of multiple cores within an integrated circuit includes selecting a reference core and a target core from among a plurality of cores of an integrated circuit. Self-test circuitry of the integrated circuit is used to generate a response signature for each of the reference core and the target core. The response signature of the reference core is compared with the response signature of the target core. A local clock buffer of the target core is adjusted until the response signature of the target core matches the response signature of the reference core.
US08412989B2 Tap time division multiplexing with scan test
An integrated circuit comprising (i) a plurality of portions, each portion including test control circuitry; and (ii) at least one test input arranged to receive test signals, the circuit having a test mode in which one or more of the plurality of portions are testable, wherein the circuit has a reset mode which has priority over the test mode.
US08412986B2 Storage system and control method thereof
Provided is a storage system, including: one or more disk drives storing data; a disk controller for controlling data access to the disk drive; a power supply controller for autonomously turning off a power source of the disk drive according to the data access status to the disk drive, and autonomously turning on the power source of the disk drive, which was turned off, after the lapse of a prescribed period from the time the power source was turned off irrespective of the data access status to the disk drive; and a media inspection unit for inspecting a failure in the disk drive in which the power source thereof was autonomously turned on irrespective of the data access status to the disk drive.
US08412979B2 Apparatus, system, and method for data storage using progressive raid
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for data storage with progressive redundant array of independent drives (“RAID”). A storage request receiver module, a striping module, a parity-mirror module, and a parity progression module are included. The storage request receiver module receives a request to store data of a file or of an object. The striping module calculates a stripe pattern for the data. The stripe pattern includes one or more stripes, and each stripe includes a set of N data segments. The striping module writes the N data segments to N storage devices. Each data segment is written to a separate storage device within a set of storage devices assigned to the stripe. The parity-mirror module writes a set of N data segments to one or more parity-mirror storage devices within the set of storage devices. The parity progression module calculates a parity data segment on each parity-mirror device in response to a storage consolidation operation, and stores the parity data segments. The storage consolidation operation is conducted to recover storage space and/or data on a parity-mirror storage device.
US08412975B2 USB based synchronization and timing system
A synchronization apparatus, comprising: a USB device having a USB microcontroller, circuitry for observing USB traffic, and circuitry for decoding from a USB data stream a periodic data structure (such as a clock carrier signal) containing information about a distributed clock frequency and phase and outputting a decoded carrier signal; and circuitry for receiving the decoded carrier signal, for generating a software interrupt upon receipt of a predefined data packet (such as a SOF packet) and for passing the software interrupt to the USB microcontroller; wherein the USB microcontroller is configured to respond to the software interrupt (such as with an interrupt service routine provided therein) by generating an output signal adapted to be used as a synchronization reference signal.
US08412974B2 Global synchronization of parallel processors using clock pulse width modulation
A circuit generates a global clock signal with a pulse width modification to synchronize processors in a parallel computing system. The circuit may include a hardware module and a clock splitter. The hardware module may generate a clock signal and performs a pulse width modification on the clock signal. The pulse width modification changes a pulse width within a clock period in the clock signal. The clock splitter may distribute the pulse width modified clock signal to a plurality of processors in the parallel computing system.
US08412970B2 Optimizing power usage by factoring processor architectural events to PMU
A method and apparatus to monitor architecture events is disclosed. The architecture events are linked together via a push bus mechanism with each architectural event having a designated time slot. There is at least one branch of the push bus in each core. Each branch of the push bus may monitor one core with all the architectural events. All the data collected from the events by the push bus is then sent to a power control unit.
US08412968B2 Circuit, system and method for selectively turning off internal clock drivers
The present invention includes a circuit, system and method for selectively turning off internal clock drivers to reduce operating current. The present invention may be used to reduce power consumption by reducing operating current in a memory device. Operating current may be reduced by turning off internal clock drivers that deliver a clock signal during selected periods of time. According to an embodiment of clock control circuitry of the present invention, an internal clock is disabled if a no operation command is detected during periods of time when no read or write burst operation is taking place. Methods, memory devices and computer systems including the clock control circuitry and its functionality are also disclosed.
US08412964B2 Automatic power-off of bluetooth device from linked device
Methods and systems for powering-off a Bluetooth device from a linked device are provided. A device can transmit a Bluetooth signal to a linked device to instruct the linked device to power-off. In this manner, the user need only turn off one device manually which results in all linked devices being powered off. This process can be initiated by a user through a device directly linked with the device to be powered-off or through a device that is indirectly connected, through one or more Bluetooth networks, with the device to be powered-off. This process can also be automatically initiated by a device when a set of predetermined conditions exist. Once instructed to do so, a device can initiate a predetermined power-off process which can involve terminating any ongoing functions and turning off various subsystems. In accordance with the present invention, a user can initiate a power-off of all the devices on a Bluetooth network through a single device.
US08412961B2 Circuit and method for detecting a legacy powered device in a power over Ethernet system
In an embodiment, a power source equipment (PSE) device includes a network port configurable to couple to a network cable and a detection circuit coupled to the network port. The detection circuit is configured to apply a powered device (PD) detection voltage signal including first and second voltages to the network port and to sample a line current of the network port in response to the first and second voltages to detect a complex impedance indicating that a legacy PD is coupled to the network port.
US08412960B2 Recording-medium storing power consumption reduction support program, information processing device, and power consumption reduction support method
An information processing device capable of communicating with a plurality of servers installed within a facility and method are provided. A storage unit stores server information including an installation position and a temperature of each of the servers within the facility. A detection unit detects a group of not-yet-powered-on servers from the plurality of servers. A calculation unit calculates an index value indicating a correlation of heat generation amounts between the not-yet-powered-on server and powered-on servers, based on the server information stored in the storage unit for each detected not-yet-powered-on server. A decision unit decides a server which becomes a power-on target, from the group of the not-yet-powered-on servers, based on the calculated index value of each not-yet-powered-on server. An output unit outputs a decision result which has been decided.
US08412954B2 Data encryption device for storage medium
A data encryption device for storage medium has an encryption key input interface for acquiring a user encryption key; a block code encoder for encoding and decoding data; a scrambler connected with the encryption key input interface and the block code encoder to scramble and descramble data according to the user encryption keys respectively inputted; and a controller connected with the block code encoder and the scrambler, performing an encryption process transmit original data to the block code encoder for encoding, the encoded data to the scrambler for scrambling, and the scrambled data to a storage medium for storage, and performing a decryption process to transmit the scrambled data to the scrambler for descrambling, the encoded data to the block code encoder for decoding to acquire the original data when the user encryption keys respectively inputted in the encryption process and the decryption process are identical.
US08412952B1 Systems and methods for authenticating requests from a client running trialware through a proof of work protocol
A computer-implemented method for authenticating requests from a client running trialware through a proof of work protocol is described. A request received from a client running trialware is analyzed. A cryptographic puzzle is generated if an authentication token is not included with the request. The cryptographic puzzle is transmitted to the client. A solution to the cryptographic puzzle received from the client is analyzed. A response to the request is generated if the received solution to the puzzle is validated.
US08412949B2 Personal digital key initialization and registration for secure transactions
A system and method provide efficient, secure, and highly reliable authentication for transaction processing and/or access control applications. A personal digital key (PDK) is programmed using a trusted programming device to initialize and/or register the PDK for use. In one embodiment, the initialization and registration processes are administered by a specialized trusted Notary to ensure the processes follow defined security procedures. In a biometric initialization, the programming device acquires a biometric input from a user and writes the biometric data to a tamperproof memory in the PDK. In registration, the Programmer communicates to one or more remote registries to create or update entries associated with the user PDK. Once initialized and registered, the PDK can be used for various levels of secure authentication processes.
US08412947B2 System and method of secure encryption for electronic data transfer
A system for secure transfer of encrypted data involves a sender client (36), a recipient client (38), a main server (40), and a key server (42). The sender client (36) receives instructions from a first user identifying transfer data and a recipient identifier, creates an encoding key, encodes the transfer data using the key, and communicates the key and the recipient identifier to a main server (40). The main server (40) communicates the key and the recipient identifier to the key server (42), which associates the recipient identifier with a secure package identifier and communicates the secure package identifier to the main server (40), which communicates the secure package identifier to the sender client (36). The recipient client (38) receives and identifies the secure package identifier and the encoded transfer data, receives from a second user a user identifier, and communicates the user identifier and the secure package identifier to the main server (40), which communicates them to the key server (42). The key server (42) communicates the key to the main server (40) only if the secure package identifier received from the recipient client (38) matches the secure package identifier created by the main server (40) and if the user identifier matches the recipient identifier. The main server (40) communicates the key to the recipient client (38).
US08412918B1 Booting mechanism for FPGA-based embedded system
According to various embodiments, a programmable device assembly includes an FPGA coupled to a nonvolatile serial configuration memory (e.g., serial flash memory) and a volatile fast bulk memory (e.g., SRAM or SDRAM). The nonvolatile serial configuration memory contains both the FPGA configuration data and CPU instructions. When a predetermined condition occurs, a serial memory access component that is hard coded on the FPGA automatically reads the configuration data from the nonvolatile serial configuration memory. The configuration data is used to configure the FPGA with various components, including a CPU, a boot ROM with code for a boot copier, and a bus structure. When the CPU boots, code for the boot copier is executed so that the CPU instructions are copied from the nonvolatile serial configuration memory to the volatile fast bulk memory. The CPU then executes the CPU instructions stored in the volatile fast bulk memory.
US08412917B2 Data exchange and communication between execution units in a parallel processor
Disclosed are methods and systems for dynamically determining data-transfer paths. The data-transfer paths are dynamically determined in response to an instruction that facilitates data transfer among execution lanes in an integrated-circuit processing device operable to execute operations in parallel. In addition, embodiments include an integrated-circuit processing device operable to execute operations in parallel, including the capability of providing confirmation information to potential source lanes, the confirmation information indicating whether the potential source lanes may send data to requested destination lanes during a data-transfer interval.
US08412916B2 Computing system having CPU and bridge operating using CPU frequency
An integrated circuit also referred to as an integrated computing system has a single substrate that has either deposited thereon or etched thereon, a central processing unit, a north bridge, a south bridge, and a graphics controller. An internal bus is coupled between the north bridge and the central processing unit. The central processing unit and north bridge do not require interfaces to perform bus protocol conversions.
US08412910B2 Maintaining reverse mappings in a virtualized computer system
For a virtual memory of a virtualized computer system in which a virtual page is mapped to a guest physical page which is backed by a machine page and in which a shadow page table entry directly maps the virtual page to the machine page, reverse mappings of guest physical pages are optimized by removing the reverse mappings of certain immutable guest physical pages. An immutable guest physical memory page is identified, and existing reverse mappings corresponding to the immutable guest physical page are removed. New reverse mappings corresponding to the identified immutable guest physical page are no longer added.
US08412907B1 System, method and computer program product for application-level cache-mapping awareness and reallocation
A method of allocating resources in a data processing system is disclosed. The method includes an application designing a page reallocation scheme and sending said page reallocation scheme from said application to a kernel service that is responsible for allocation of storage locations.
US08412906B2 Memory apparatus supporting multiple width configurations
Described are memory apparatus organized in memory subsections and including configurable routing to support multiple data-width configurations. Relatively narrow width configurations load fewer sense amplifiers, resulting in reduced power usage for relatively narrow memory configurations. Also described are memory controllers that convey width selection information to configurable memory apparatus and support point-to-point data interfaces for multiple width configurations.
US08412889B2 Low-level conditional synchronization support
A low-overhead conditional synchronization instruction operates on a synchronization variable which includes a lock bit, a state specification, and bits for user-defined data. The instruction specifies the memory address of the synchronization variable and a condition. During the synchronization instruction the condition is compared to the state specification within an atomic region. The match succeeds if the condition matches the state specification and the lock bit is clear. The synchronization instruction may operate with a cache under a cache coherency protocol, or without a cache, and may include a timeout operand.
US08412881B2 Modified B+ tree to store NAND memory indirection maps
Embodiments of the invention generally pertain to memory devices and more specifically to reducing the write amplification of memory devices without increasing cache requirements. Embodiments of the present invention may be represented as a modified B+ tree in that said tree comprises a multi-level tree in which all data items are stored in the leaf nodes of the tree. Each non-leaf node in the tree will reference a large number of nodes in the next level down from the tree. Modified B+ trees described herein may be represented as data structures used to map memory device page addresses. The entire modified B+ tree used to map said pages may be stored on the same memory device requiring limited amounts of cache. These embodiments may be utilized by low cost controllers that require good sequential read and write performance without large amounts of cache.
US08412878B2 Combined mobile device and solid state disk with a shared memory architecture
A mobile device including a system-on-chip, which includes a mobile device control module to execute application programs for the mobile device, a solid-state disk (SSD) control module to control SSD operations, a random access memory (RAM) control module to store both SSD-related data and mobile device-related data in a single RAM, and a nonvolatile (NV) memory control module to control reading from and writing to the NV memory array. Data in the single RAM is stored into the NV memory array during an idle mode. The single RAM is powered down during the idle mode after the data in the single RAM has been stored into the NV memory array. The stored data in the NV memory array is loaded into the single RAM during a re-start mode.
US08412874B2 Data transfer circuit
A data transfer circuit includes a fetcher which fetches data having L words (L: integer of 2 or more), each word of which has a first bit width. A first divider divides each data of preceding M words (M: integer of less than L), out of the data fetched by the fetcher, into partial data having a second bit width smaller than the first bit width. A holder temporarily holds data having N words (N: integer equivalent to L-M) succeeding to the M words, out of the data fetched by the fetcher. A second divider divides each data of the N words held by the holder, into partial data having the second bit width. An outputter outputs the partial data divided by the first divider and the partial data divided by the second divider in a time-division manner.
US08412870B2 Optimized arbiter using multi-level arbitration
An apparatus comprising a first sub-arbiter circuit and a second sub-arbiter circuit. The first sub-arbiter circuit may be configured to determine a winning channel from a plurality of channel requests based on a first criteria. The second sub-arbiter circuit may be configured to determine a winning channel received from the plurality of channel requests based on a second criteria. The second sub-arbiter may also be configured to optimize the order of the winning channels from the first sub-arbiter by overriding the first sub-arbiter if the second criteria creates a more efficient data transfer.
US08412866B2 System and method of dynamically switching queue threshold
A system and method of dynamically switching the threshold of a data queue, such as FIFO, is disclosed. The data queue has a first threshold and a second threshold, wherein the first threshold is greater than the second threshold. The data queue is dynamically switched between the first threshold and the second threshold according to different power state of a central processing unit (CPU). A system memory is requested to fill the data queue with data whenever amount of the data queue is less than the switched first/second threshold.
US08412864B2 Information processing apparatus and information processing method
The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus capable of accurately controlling DMA transfer of a plurality of pieces of data present in a memory with a simple hardware configuration, and an information processing method for use therewith. A memory 33 is provided with a descriptor table T0 corresponding to a queue Q0 and a descriptor table T1 corresponding to a queue Q1. In registers R0 and R1 of a descriptor controller 51, the descriptor number constituting the descriptor table T0 and the descriptor number constituting the descriptor table T1 are recorded, respectively. In caches C0 and C1 of a descriptor obtaining section 52, descriptors of the descriptor table T0 and descriptors of the descriptor table T1 are recorded, respectively. A descriptor selector 53 selects one of the caches C0 and C1 in accordance with a predetermined rule. The present invention can be applied to all electronic apparatuses for performing DMA transfer.
US08412859B2 Methods and systems for interconnecting a peripheral device and an electronic system
A computer-implemented method for interconnecting a peripheral device and an electronic system includes analyzing an information (INF) file associated with the peripheral device, recognizing a resource conflict between the peripheral device and the electronic system based on the analyzing of the INF file, and resolving the resource conflict by modifying the INF file.
US08412858B2 Techniques for indicating a passive state for a device
Described are techniques for indicating a state associated with a device. A request is received over a path for information about a device. A response to the request is sent. The response indicates a state regarding the device on the path. The response has a response status of good and a payload of a varying size. The payload is truncated at a location prior to that at which a device identifier for the device is expected. In accordance with the response, a state regarding the device on the path is determined.
US08412857B2 Authenticating, tracking, and using a peripheral
This document describes techniques (300, 600) and apparatuses (102, 106, 700, 800, 900) for peripheral authentication. These techniques (300, 600) and apparatuses (102, 106, 700, 800, 900) may configure data lines for authentication between host device (102) and peripheral (106), use these configured data lines to authenticate the peripheral (106), and then reconfigure the data lines for use. These techniques (300, 600) may also or instead transmit time stamps to a remote entity (402) for tracking peripheral use and/or present home screens (122) responsive to connection to a peripheral (106).
US08412850B2 System and method for adjusting a level of compression for computing clients
A system and method for adjusting a level of compression for thin and chubby computing clients. End devices in a network can stream audio/video traffic over a network. Such a connection between the end devices can be reserved with guarantees of bandwidth and latency being obtained. Bandwidth guarantees across multiple intermediary switches can be used to define a compression level for the end devices. In one embodiment, the lowest compression level that will produce audio/video traffic that will fit in the guaranteed connection bandwidth is chosen to produce the highest quality audio/video stream.
US08412845B2 Communication application for conducting conversations including multiple media types in either a real-time mode or a time-shifted mode
A communication application configured to support a conversation among participants over a communication network. The communication application is configured to (i) support one or more media types within the context of the conversation, (ii) interleave the one or more media types in a time-indexed order within the context of the conversation, (iii) enable the participants to render the conversation including the interleaved one or more media types in either a real-time rendering mode or time-shifted rendering mode, and (iv) seamlessly transition the conversation between the two modes so that the conversation may take place substantially live when in the real-time rendering mode or asynchronously when in the time-shifted rendering mode.
US08412844B2 Validating download success
Methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for validating download success are disclosed. A method can include receiving a request to transmit a digital item to a computing device, transmitting a modified digital item to the computing device, and receiving confirmation that the computing device has received the modified digital item in its entirety. The method can also include for each of N invalid data portions included in the modified digital item, transmitting to the computing device a location of the invalid data portion in the modified digital item, and the existing data portion previously replaced by the invalid data portion; and receiving confirmation that the computing device has received the existing data portion. In response to receiving confirmations, an indication that the computing device has received all N existing data portions replaced by the N invalid data portions can be transmitted.
US08412842B2 Controlling streaming media responsive to proximity to user selected display elements
Methods, electronic terminals, and systems are disclosed for controlling the display of video streams on an electronic terminal. A plurality of the video streams are received at the electronic terminal from the media server. The received video streams are displayed in an ordered set of elements on a display device of the electronic terminal. A user selection of at least a first one of the elements is received. Commands are communicated, responsive to the user selection, from the electronic terminal to the media server to control the quality of service of the video streams that are displayed in each of the non-selected elements in response to their respective location within the ordered set of elements relative to the selected first element.
US08412841B1 Media content streaming using stream message fragments
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for media content streaming can include transacting access information associated with a media stream and transacting one or more fragments associated with the media stream to facilitate a delivery of media content associated with the media stream. Access information can include fragment sequencing information to facilitate individual retrieval of fragments associated with the media stream using a uniform resource identifier via a processing device configured to cache content. A fragment can include one or more stream messages. A stream message can include a message header and a corresponding media data sample. The message header can include a message stream identifier, a message type identifier, a timestamp, and a message length value.
US08412837B1 Data privacy
In some embodiments, techniques for data security may include encoding and decoding unreadably encoded data, such as data encrypted with a public key or tokenized. In some embodiments, techniques for data security may include distributing an encrypted private key. In some embodiments, unreadable data may be encrypted and/or decrypted using time-varying keys.In some embodiments, techniques for data security may include combining information and a policy, and encoding the combined information and policy, wherein encrypting the combined information and policy is performed using a public key, or via tokenization.In some embodiments, techniques for data security may include receiving data, wherein the data has been encoded, decoding the data, determining a first datum and a second datum, wherein the first datum and the second datum are associated with the decoded data, and determining a policy, wherein the policy is associated with the first datum.
US08412834B2 Packet-switched network-to-network interconnection interface
An exemplary method includes network elements associated with distinct network domains exchanging signaling and media border processing information by way of a secure packet-switched connection between the network elements, exchanging service policy information by way of the secure packet-switched connection, peering a session associated with a first service type between the distinct network domains by way of a packet-switched network-to-network interconnection interface (“NNII”) in accordance with the exchanged signaling and media border processing information, peering another session associated with a second service type between the distinct network domains by way of the packet-switched NNII in accordance with the exchanged signaling and media border processing information, enforcing a first performance threshold specified by the service policy information for peering the session associated with the first service type, and enforcing a second performance threshold specified by the service policy information for peering the other session associated with the second service type.
US08412833B2 Apparatus and method for inviting users to online sessions
An invitation service performs a series of transactions to enable P2P communication between two or more mobile data processing devices. Prior to attempting to establish a P2P network communication channel, the invitation service may first collect network information for each of the mobile devices and use the network information to determine if a direct P2P network communication channel is feasible. If a direct connection is feasible, then the invitation service provides for direct P2P communication, pushing the necessary network information to each of the mobile devices. If, however, a direct connection is infeasible or if a direct connection is attempted and fails, then the invitation service may identify network information associated with a relay service. The network information may then be used by any pair of mobile devices to establish a connection through the relay service.
US08412832B2 Systems and methods for GSLB MEP connection management across multiple core appliances
The present disclosure presents systems and methods for obtaining metric information by a multi-core GSLB intermediary device and providing global server load balancing services using the obtained information. A first core of a multi-core GSLB appliance establishes a transport layer connection to a remote load balancer at a site of a plurality of sites. The first core transmits a message to each of the other cores of the multi-core GSLB appliance that that the first core is a master core for receiving metric information from the load balancer. The first core receives metric information of the remote site from the load balancer. The first core propagates the metric information to each of the other cores of the GSLB appliance. A GSLB virtual server on a slave core receives a DNS request. The GSLB virtual server determines a DNS resolution for the DNS request based on the metric information.
US08412826B2 Message exchange between software components
Systems, methods, and devices are provided for message exchange between software components. One method includes receiving a message request from a software component to send a message to a destination address. The method includes creating a message object which can be exchanged between software components, regardless of a transport mechanism or a protocol employed by one or more software components, upon receiving the request.
US08412819B2 Dynamically enabling features of an application based on user status
In one embodiment, a first application detects a user's activity. Based on the user's activity detected by the first application, a type of user status is determined from among a plurality of different types of possible user status. One or more features are determined of a feature set of a second application that correspond to the type of user status detected by the first application. The corresponding one or more features of the feature set of the second application are limited to prevent the one or more features from interrupting the user's activity. One or more other features of the feature set of the second application that do not correspond to the type of user status detected by the first application are permitted.
US08412816B2 Native bi-directional communication for hardware management
A communication system includes a storage operable to host an operating system and a management controller configured to directly communicate with the operating system. The management controller directly communicates with the operating system through a communication channel free of an intermediate agent. The management controller is operable to asynchronously send management information to the operating system over the communication channel. The management controller is also operable to asynchronously receive management information from the operating system over the communication channel.
US08412809B2 Method, apparatus and computer program product implementing multi-tenancy for network monitoring tools using virtualization technology
Method, apparatus and computer program product manage a plurality of networks with a single tenant network management tool using virtualization and implement control plane virtualization of the single tenant management tool; data storage virtualization of a data storage apparatus and network address virtualization of an available address range. A virtual machine may be implemented for each network of the plurality of networks to contain an instance of the single tenant management tool. In one implementation, a proxy is used to implement data storage virtualization. In another implementation, separate data storage is maintained for each network and data storage virtualization is achieved by managing the network protocol stack virtualization. The network address virtualization may be implemented using machine-level virtualization or operating-system-level virtualization.
US08412803B1 Rescue configuration
A configuration is identified as a rescue configuration. The identified rescue configuration is stored in a storage device (if it is not already stored). The stored rescue configuration may then be used to configure an apparatus, such as a router, in response to a rescue command. Identifying a particular configuration as a rescue configuration can be done by a manual command. The identifying may be limited such that it is effected only if performed by an authorized user. Alternatively, the identification of a configuration as the rescue configuration can be done automatically. For example, an automatic rollback to a known functioning configuration can occur automatically (e.g., in response to a rescue command). A configuration may be determined to be the known functioning configuration using various factors.
US08412793B2 Method, device and system for delivery resume of dynamic content
The present invention discloses a method for delivery resume of dynamic content comprising: after detecting a delivery channel to a client that receives dynamic content is recovered to normal, or receiving a request for delivering resume of dynamic content from the client, the dynamic content delivery server determines a delivery resume mode, and delivers the dynamic content to the client in the determined delivery resume mode. The present invention further provides a corresponding client, a corresponding server, and a corresponding dynamic content delivery system. The present invention can determine the delivery resume mode in accordance with dynamic information of the client and type of the dynamic content to be delivered, thereby it is ensured that the delivered dynamic content is the information that the client needs, and waste of network transmission resources is avoided.
US08412787B2 Method and system for organizing electronic messages using eye-gaze technology
Organizing messages received and transmitted between at least two computer systems over a network is described. In one aspect, the method includes tracking where a user is gazing as the user is composing an outgoing message on a first computer system. During a composition time period in which the user is composing the message, a relevance rating for each of a plurality of gaze areas is determined. The relevance rating of a gaze area is based on a number of times the user's gaze dwells on the displayed message associated with the gaze area after the user's gaze is directed away from the displayed message. The method further includes identifying at least one displayed message that is related to the outgoing message based on the relevance ratings of each gaze area, and associating an identifier for at least one of the at least one related message with the outgoing message.
US08412781B2 Image communication apparatus, image communication method, and memory medium
In an Internet facsimile apparatus, it is an object of the invention to provide means for notifying the user of details of a message disposition notification situation (MDN) of a transmission image. When E-mail data is sent, an MDN for E-mail to be sent is requested and communication management information of the sent E-mail is updated on the basis of a reception result of reply E-mail responsive to the MDN request.
US08412772B1 Content sharing via social networking
Example systems and methods of content sharing via social networking are presented. In one example, availability of a first user device to provide media content over a communication network is detected. A second user device is identified via an association of the first user device with the second user device that is specified in a social network. An acceptance by the second user device to receive the media content from the first user device is determined. In response to the acceptance, transmission of the media content provided by the first user device over the communication network to the second user device is initiated.
US08412766B1 Method and apparatus for tracking client navigation among multiple resources in communication session information saved by a server
Techniques for tracking navigation by a client among multiple content provided by servers include receiving from the client a first request for first content. In response to receiving the first request, a first response identification is generated that is unique among all responses during a communication session. Information associated with the first request is stored in a data structure in a first record associated with the first response identification. A linking element in the first content is determined. Selection of the linking element causes the client to generate a second request for second content. The first response identification is associated with the linking element in a first response such that the second request includes the first response identification. The first response is sent to the client. The tracking succeeds with multiple windows and limitations on state information passed by a client.
US08412761B2 Single precision floating-point data storing method and processor
A single-precision floating-point data storing method for use in a processor including a register, which has a size that can store double-precision floating-point data, for storing double-precision floating-point data and single-precision floating-point data comprises writing input single-precision floating-point data to the high-order half of the register, and writing all zeros to the low-order half of the register if a single-precision floating-point data process is specified.
US08412760B2 Dynamic range adjusting floating point execution unit
A floating point execution unit is capable of selectively repurposing a subset of the significand bits in a floating point value for use as additional exponent bits to dynamically provide an extended range for floating point calculations. A significand field of a floating point operand may be considered to include first and second portions, with the first portion capable of being concatenated with the second portion to represent the significand for a floating point value, or, to provide an extended range, being concatenated with the exponent field of the floating point operand to represent the exponent for a floating point value.
US08412758B2 System and method for implementing a random number generator
The invention refers to a pseudo random number generator, PRN, and a method for producing a random number signal, and a system for a fast frequency hopping radio comprising a PRN, and a method for such a system.
US08412751B2 Determining whether a Java object has been scan-missed by a garbage collector scan
A Java object is scan-missed during the mark phase of a garbage collection cycle. A list of any unscanned objects, comprising all objects of a particular object type, is created during a sweep phase of the garbage collection cycle. After the garbage collection cycle is completed, and the application resumes, for every PUTFIELD/GETFIELD operation on the object type that is part of a specific parent object, a comparison is made with the relevant information in the unscanned objects list. A scan-miss is identified by determining whether the current object being referenced by the application is a part of the unscanned object list that has been created during the sweep phase of the garbage collection cycle.
US08412750B2 LDAP to SQL database proxy system and method
An LDAP to SQL proxy to adapt a relational database as a directory service for an LDAP client is provided. The database may be defined in accordance with a database schema which is external to an LDAP server serving the LDAP client. The proxy comprises LDAP to SQL query and response mappings preferably for a reduced set of LDAP operations. The proxy may comprise a mechanism to maintain a plurality of persistent database connections to reduce query processing overhead. The proxy may further be adapted to maintain persistent connections to each of at least two alternative databases for executing queries to provide enhanced failsafe operations. A plurality of LDAP to SQL proxied databases may be configured for sharing query loads to enhance scalability and performance.
US08412746B2 Method and system for federated querying of data sources
A system for managing and querying a plurality of data sources, including an interface to a plurality of inter-related data sources of diverse types, each of the plurality of data sources having a schema that describes its data structure, a schema generator communicating with the interface, for generating a federated schema that describes the structures of the plurality of data sources and their inter-relationships, and for modifying the federated schema over time as the plurality of data sources undergo changes, and a query generator communicating with the schema generator, for generating a query for the federated schema. A method and a computer-readable storage medium are also described.
US08412739B2 Optimization of an upgrade process of an original system
In one general aspect, a computer system can include instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer system can include a upgrade portion identifier configured to identify a plurality of databases of an original system for upgrade, and a parameter module configured to calculate a plurality of parameter values representing aspects of the plurality of databases. The computer system can also include a fuzzy logic module configured to calculate, using fuzzy logic, a relative ranking of each database from the plurality of databases based on the plurality of parameter values, and a selection module configured to select at least a portion of the plurality of databases for upgrade during uptime of the original system based on a limitation of an upgrade resource and the relative ranking of each database from the plurality of databases.
US08412734B2 Unifying hetrogenous data
Techniques for unifying data are provided. The techniques include transforming a query into one or more sub-queries that can be answered by one or more types of data services, and wherein the query touches one or more joins across data residing in one or more enterprise systems, querying one or more target data services for each of the one or more sub-queries, aggregating one or more sets of results based on the one or more target data services, and unifying the one or more sets of aggregated results.
US08412732B2 Automatically generating a set of event processing rules for use in a complex event processing system
Automatically generating a set of event processing rules for use in a complex event processing (CEP) system and guiding a user through subsequent augmentation of such automatically-generated rules.
US08412730B2 Image search apparatus and method thereof
An image search apparatus extracts a symmetric partial image based on acquired pairs of feature points, and divides the partial image at a symmetry axis of the partial image to decide two partial areas, as a first area and a second area based on the tendency of image features in the partial image. In determining the similarity between the query image and a comparison destination image, a coordinate transformation coefficient for a coordinate transformation process is set based on pairs of feature points extracted from the partial area decided as the first area of the two images, the coordinate transformation process using the coordinate transformation coefficient is applied to the pairs of feature points extracted from areas including areas other than the first area of the two images, and coordinates of the pairs of feature points after the coordinate transformation process are compared.
US08412723B2 Geometrization for pattern recognition, data analysis, data merging, and multiple criteria decision making
An analyzer/classifier/synthesizer/prioritizing tool for data comprises use of an admissible geometrization process with data transformed and partitioned by an input process into one or more input matrices and one or more partition classes and one or more scale groups. The data to be analyzed/classified/synthesized/prioritized is processed by an admissible geometrization technique such as 2-partition modified individual differences multidimensional scaling (2p-IDMDS) to produce at least a measure of geometric fit. Using the measure of geometric fit and possibly other 2p-IDMDS output, a back end process analyzes, synthesizes, classifies, and prioritizes data through patterns, structure, and relations within the data.
US08412714B2 Adaptive processing of top-k queries in nested-structure arbitrary markup language such as XML
A method of adaptively evaluating a top-k query involves (1204) forming a servers having respective server queues storing candidate answers, processing (1322) the candidate answers, and (1232) providing a top-k set as a query evaluation. Processing includes (1402) adaptively choosing a winning server to whose queue a current candidate answer should be sent; (1404) sending the current candidate answer to the winning server's queue; (1334) adaptively choosing a next candidate answer to process from the winning server's queue; (1336) computing a join between the current candidate answer and next candidate answers at the winning server, so as to produce a new current candidate answer; and (1338) updating the top-k set with the new current candidate answer only if a score of the new current candidate answer exceeds a score of a top-k answer in a top-k set. A method of calculating scores for candidate answers is also provided.
US08412710B2 Searching for handwritten annotations appearing a given distance from document content
A method of searching a database containing documents with handwritten annotations stored in association with document content is disclosed. The method receives as inputs a handwritten annotation as a handwritten search input and a content element as a content search input. A search is then performed of the database for handwritten annotations in a document matching the handwritten search input and less than a given physical distance from document content equal to the content search input in the document.
US08412704B1 Providing blog posts relevant to search results
A device identifies a search result document based on a search query, and searches a blog post repository to identify a blog post relevant to the search result document. The device also rejects the blog post if the blog post has insufficient length, contains outgoing links located a predetermined distance from the beginning of the blog post, has a large out-degree, was created before or after a predetermined time, or has incoming links with a low link-based score. The device further provides the blog post in connection with the search result document if the blog post was not rejected.
US08412700B2 Database query optimization using index carryover to subset an index
A method, apparatus and program product use a first index associated with a field in a database table to identify a range of records in the database table that includes instances of a first key value in the field and use the identified range of records to subset a second index associated with another field in a database table. The database query identifies the first key value for the field in the database table and the second key value for the other field in the database table. By doing so, information from an index may be carried over and applied to another index to subset the other index, often reducing the quantity of entries that are searched in the other index and improving performance.
US08412696B2 Real time searching and reporting
A system arranged to search machine data to generate reports in real time. A search query is provided that includes a plurality of search commands. The search query is parsed to form a main search query and a remote search query. Machine data is collected from remote data sources and evaluated against one of the main and remote search queries to generate a set of search results. The main search query is then evaluated against at least a partial set of the search result to generate at least one report regarding the collected machine data. Each report can be provided for display to a user.
US08412690B2 In-memory processing for a data warehouse
Embodiments of the present invention include in-memory processing for data warehouse applications. In one embodiment, data records from a data warehouse application are stored in a data storage structure of an in-memory database. Data received from the data warehouse may be stored in a queue and loaded into the data storage structure according to predefined rules. Stored data records are associated with in-memory database transactions that caused the stored data record to be stored, and may further be associated with transactions that caused the stored data records to be changed. A mapping is generated to associate requests from the data warehouse application with in-memory database transactions. The data warehouse application may retrieve data in a change data format calculated on-the-fly.
US08412689B2 Shared log-structured multi-version transactional datastore with metadata to enable melding trees
Architecture that includes an ordered and shared log of indexed transaction records represented as multi-version data structures of nodes and node pointers. The log is a sole monolithic source of datastore state and is used for enforcing concurrency control. The architecture also includes a transaction processing component that appends transaction records to the log from concurrent transactions executing on different processors. Each node of a record is assigned a log address.
US08412687B1 System and method for delivering content to a communication device in a content delivery system
The present invention relates to a method, system, and a computer program product for delivering content to a communication device, in response to an image sent by the communication device. The received image is matched with a plurality of images, and, when a match is found for the received image, content corresponding to the image is delivered to the communication device. The plurality of images is stored in an image database, and the corresponding content is stored in a content repository. The present invention enables a content provider to automatically update the image database and the content repository without any human intervention.
US08412686B2 Method and apparatus for determining whether a private data area is safe to preserve
A system may configure a safety-tag that indicates whether a private data area is safe to preserve. During operation, the system receives a file with a private data area. Specifically, in one embodiment, the private data area is contained within an Exchangeable Image File (EXIF) MakerNote tag, which allows makers of EXIF writers to record any desired information. Next, the system determines whether the private data area is safe to preserve. If the private data area is safe to preserve, the system configures a safety-tag to indicate that the private data area is safe to preserve. Otherwise, if the private data area is not safe to preserve, the system configures the safety-tag to indicate that the private data is not safe to preserve. Specifically, in one embodiment, the safety-tag is a Digital Negative (DNG) MakerNoteSafety tag.
US08412678B2 Systems and methods for providing business continuity services
Systems and methods for providing business continuity services after a disaster or other loss of data are provided. The system and methods include accessing, replicating, and storing customer data. In the event of a disaster or other loss of data, the stored data is used to create fully recovered systems. The systems and methods provide for a remote data center that offers protection against physical disasters. The systems and methods include providing a virtual recovered operating system environment identical to the source operating system environment in less than 8 hours after notification of a disaster.
US08412676B2 Forgetting items with knowledge based synchronization
Systems and methods that enable removal of data from an endpoint, while not propagating such removal to other endpoints when synchronizing data sources associated therewith. A designation component can indicate items as forgotten items, wherein such items are being known to an endpoint and deleted therefrom—yet, reintroduced therein and reappearing (e.g., as a create) upon re-synchronizing with the replica over again. Moreover, the forgotten items can employ additional metadata such as in from of an additional bit that indicates whether an item is a forgotten item.
US08412673B2 Persistence of master data in a multi-tenant software delivery architecture
A first tenant-nonspecific database table on a repository accessible to an application server of a multi-tenant software delivery architecture can maintain a first record designating a first predefined generic field of a plurality of predefined generic fields. The first record can include an organization-specific master data field definition of the first predefined generic field maintained in a first tenant-specific definition field assigned to a first customer tenant of a plurality of customer tenants that are accessible via the application server. Each customer tenant of the plurality of customer tenants can provide a discrete organization-specific business configuration of a core software platform. A second tenant-nonspecific database table maintained on the repository can maintain a second record that can include a key value designating the first tenant, a record designator, and an organization-specific master data value corresponding to the first predefined generic field. A calculation or determination based on master data can be performed that is relevant to the discrete organization-specific business configuration provided by the first customer tenant using the organization-specific master data value.
US08412669B2 Systems and methods for determining muscle force through dynamic gain optimization of a muscle PID controller
Systems and methods for determining muscle force are presented. Proportional, integral, and derivative control is used to simulate muscle forces for multiple muscles contributing to a kinematic profile. The simulated muscle forces arc modified by dynamic gains that are calculated in order to achieve a muscle recruitment objective such as minimizing collective muscle effort while still achieving the kinematic motion.
US08412660B2 Multi-pairs shortest path finding method and system with sources selection
A method and system for solving shortest paths from multiple sources to multiple destinations faster. A method of solving the multiple-pairs shortest path problem is provided using processing by a computer having storage means. The method includes the steps of: (A) reading graph data S on multiple vertices as search starting points from a storage area of the computer; (B) reading graph data T on multiple vertices as search targets from the storage area of the computer; (C) selecting k vertices s1, s2, . . . , sk from the graph data S; (D) deleting the k vertices from the graph data S; (E) finding and storing, in the storage area, shortest path lengths from each of the selected k vertices to the graph data T; and (F) repeating the steps from (C) to (E) until the graph data S becomes empty.
US08412659B2 Semi-automated and inter-active system and method for analyzing patent landscapes
A semi-automated method for interactively analyzing a patent landscape in one embodiment includes retrieving a plurality of relevant patents indicative of a predetermined conceptual region of the patent landscape from a patent repository using a query. Competitive analysis of the plurality of relevant patents is conducted using an interactive network-based visualization technique. The competitive analysis is used for intellectual property enforcement, due diligence, and strategic investment analysis.
US08412651B2 Characterizing datasets using sampling, weighting, and approximation of an eigendecomposition
A method, a system, and a computer-readable medium are provided for characterizing a dataset. A representative dataset is defined from a dataset by a computing device. The representative dataset includes a first plurality of data points and the dataset includes a second plurality of data points. The number of the first plurality of data points is less than the number of the second plurality of data points. The data point is added to the representative dataset if a minimum distance between the data point and each data point of the representative dataset is greater than a sampling parameter. The data point is added to a refinement dataset if the minimum distance between the data point and each data point of the representative dataset is less than the sampling parameter and greater than half the sampling parameter. A weighting matrix is defined by the computing device that includes a weight value calculated for each of the first plurality of data points based on a determined number of the second plurality of data points associated with a respective data point of the first plurality of data points. The weight value for a closest data point of the representative dataset is updated if the minimum distance between the data point and each data point of the representative dataset is less than half the sampling parameter. A machine learning algorithm is executed by the computing device using the defined representative dataset and the defined weighting matrix applied in an approximation for a computation of a full kernel matrix of the dataset to generate a parameter characterizing the dataset.
US08412644B2 Method and apparatus for establishing usage rights for digital content to be created in the future
Usage rights for a digital work are established prior to creation of the corresponding content. The rights can be associated with the content after the content is created. A content creation, such as a video recorder or a still camera, device can store labels of the rights and can associate usage rights with content in real time as the content is created.
US08412642B2 Transport scheduling for low microbial bulk products
Transport scheduling and transport processes for low microbial (“LM”) bulk products are described. The transport scheduling and processes facilitate low microbial activity in a LM bulk product during the transport of the LM bulk product.
US08412639B2 System and method for facilitating a secured financial transaction using an alternate shipping address
The disclosed system enables merchants to ship products to a predefined address that may or may not be an account holder's billing address. The account holder may define one or more alias identifiers that correspond to a predefined shipping address. The predefined shipping address is stored with a corresponding alias identifier. A merchant order form includes a field to accept an alias identifier, such that when the order form is submitted to the merchant and the merchant prepares a purchase authorization request, the alias identifier is included in the request. The credit account issuer receives the payment authorization request and extracts the alias identifier, which is used to locate a matching stored alias identifier. A shipping address corresponding to the stored alias identifier is retrieved and returned to the merchant with an authorization message.
US08412637B2 System and method to facilitate and support electronic communication of request for proposals
A method and apparatus effectuates bilateral commerce in ideas. An originator and user-driven on-line commercial network system is designed to facilitate idea submission, purchase, and licensing, and is easily adapted to business-to-business transfers of innovation as well as consumer-to-business transfers of innovation. The invention allows originators of ideas to communicate nondisclosing synopses of ideas globally to potential users, for users conveniently to search for relevant ideas and for users potentially to bind an originator to a limited duration license granting user the exclusive right to access and consider confidentially the originator's fully disclosed idea. The invention also allows users to communicate confidentially or nonconfidentially unsolved problems or needs globally to potential originators, for originators conveniently to search for relevant unsolved problems or needs, and for originators to submit and communicate confidentially proposed solutions to the soliciting user.
US08412631B2 Cloud enabled payment processing system and method
A comprehensive platform for processing financial transactions is disclosed. The platform is a cloud based and comprises an application programming interface so that application developers can take advantage of the services provided by the framework. The platform replaces many of the expensive, outdated or inefficient aspects of traditional payment processing methods.
US08412627B2 Online funds transfer method
According to the invention, a process for transferring funds in an online transaction between a first party and a second party is disclosed. In one step, a first account associated with the first party and a second account associated with the second party are determined. At least one of the first account and the second account is a bank account. A first transfer is initiated between the first account and a third account. The third account is not associated with either the first party or the second party. Notification is received that the first transfer has cleared. A second transfer between the third account and the second account is initiated before notification that the first transfer has cleared is received.
US08412626B2 Systems and methods to secure transactions via mobile devices
Systems and methods are provided to improve security of payment transactions via mobile communications. In one aspect, a system includes an interchange having a common format processor and a plurality of converters to interface with a plurality of different controllers of mobile communications. The converters are configured to communicate with the controllers in different formats and to communicate with the common format processor in a common format for the confirmation of payment requests, made via mobile phones. The common format processor is to determine a risk of a payment request being fraudulent based on the personal identification information associated with a mobile phone and, after the payment request is confirmed and when the risk is below a threshold, to communicate one or more premium messages to the mobile phone to collect funds to fulfill the payment request.
US08412622B2 Systems and methods for determining a financial health indicator
Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for a financial health indicator. The financial health indicator provides a dynamic indication of a user's financial health in terms of their current credit worthiness and their current ability to save in relation to a budget. In this regard, the financial health indicator is based on a user's credit report score, such as one or more FICO type credit scores and the user's savings as indicated by a budget tracking system. In embodiments of the invention in which the financial health indicator is implemented in conjunction with a budget tracking system, the financial health indicator provides necessary feedback to the user that serves to inform the user as to how they are performing in terms of staying on track to their individual budget allocations. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the provider of the budget tracking system may provide for awards based on achieving a predefined financial health indicator level and/or score.
US08412618B2 System for managing construction project bidding
A system is disclosed that facilitates construction project bidding over a computer network. In one aspect, a construction project supervisor system may verify one or more aspects of bidder information before bidding. A bidder may submit payment information, an electronic mail address, and a telephone number to be verified. Verification may include utilizing the payment information to process a payment, and/or sending a verification code to the electronic mail address and/or telephone number. In one embodiment, the issuance of a bid bond associated with the prospective bid may be required to complete the verification process.
US08412611B2 Stock purchase indices
A method and system for determining investor participation driven stock purchase indices. Raw customer trading data is received from an accounting system. The raw customer trading data is then aggregated to generate daily transaction total counts for all stocks (that is, total shares bought and sold, total market value, etc.) as well as daily transaction total counts for each individual stock. Aggregation of the raw customer data also addresses customer privacy concerns. The aggregated data is processed to produce moving averages, stock purchase indices, and stock rankings. The stock purchase indices are based on a diffusion index technique of segregating buyers from sellers, and with these relative counts, measures the breadth of investor purchasing participation. The stock purchase indices are then displayed to a graphical user interface. The display includes stock buy and sell ranking lists.
US08412608B2 Currency system to reward constructive behavior
A system is described for teaching users financial management using an online currency management system, including enabling an administrator to set up a financial account through a network. This step further includes assigning specific tasks for completion by one or more users, setting rules related to the management of play currency, and designating rewards that are earned by the one or more users through completion of the specific tasks. The system further includes providing a web-based interface for the one or more users to access and manage their own user account containing the play currency, and enabling the administrator to fund, with real currency, the purchase of the rewards by the one or more users with play currency.
US08412605B2 Comprehensive suspicious activity monitoring and alert system
Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, apparatus, methods and computer program products for integrated risk management. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide for monitoring financial institution data from a plurality of financial institutions, including transactional data associated with multiple products and channels, to identify suspicious activity potentially associated with identity theft incidents and, in specific embodiments, communicate suspicious activity and/or identity theft alerts and/or reports in response to identifying the suspicious activities and/or confirming an identity theft incident associated with the suspicious activity. In further embodiments, the monitored financial institution may include one or more, and in some embodiments all of, account data, asset data, liability data, negative file data, customer data, device data, credit data, or biometric data. In addition, in certain embodiments, the monitored data may include non-financial institution data.
US08412604B1 Financial account segmentation system
Disclosed is a method and system for optimizing an existing customer financial product account database for a financial institution. A customized product segmentation strategy based at least on the financial product account database identifies opportunities to cross-sell new credit and debit products, and increase the usage of credit and debit products among existing customers.
US08412600B2 System and method for pool risk assessment
A system and method for assessing risk is provided. The method comprises determining an investment index associated with investment by an insurance company in an insurance pool. Next, the method comprises determining a return index associated with an expected return to the insurance company from participating in the insurance pool; and determining a benefit index based on the investment and return indices. The system for assessing risk comprises an assessment module for assessing risks associated with an insurance company's participation in an insurance pool based on at least one of: an investment index associated with the costs of participating in the insurance pool, and a return index associated with the benefits of participating in the insurance pool.
US08412596B2 Biological reagent catalog
Embodiments relate to providing one or more recommended biological reagents in response to receiving a biological reagent order. An exemplary embodiment includes identifying biological reagents based on a biological reagent order that has been received. Characteristic data of the identified biological reagents may then be evaluated to identify a characteristic conflict among the identified biological reagents. Similarly, inventory data of the identified biological reagents may then be evaluated to identify an inventory conflict among the identified biological reagents. If a conflict, either characteristic or inventory, is identified, a recommendation for an alternative biological reagent may be provided that is free from conflict. Additionally, historical use data may be maintained and referenced to aid in identifying a biological reagent as either a potential biological reagent based on a suspected biological condition or as a substitute biological reagent.
US08412595B2 Lifecycle tracking and management using RF
Tracking and management data for a solicitation and response lifecycle is disclosed. The system generates and links tracking data for both the solicitation and the response, generates indicators that include the tracking data, and encodes the indicators so that the indicators are detectable as they traverse various events and locations throughout the lifecycle. A detailed audit trail of each event in the correspondence and response lifecycle is constructed using data matching methods and various statistics regarding the lifecycle, such that the response habits of customers are formulated.
US08412593B1 Credit card matching
A consumer provides authorization to a card match system to access the consumer's credit file to match the consumer to one or more credit cards. The consumer's credit score is retrieved and then compared to the acceptable credit score range for each of a plurality of credit cards. The consumer is notified of any matches. If one or more matches are found, a prescreened matching of the consumer to one or more credit cards is requested, without authorization from the consumer and without notifying the consumer that the prescreening is being performed. The consumer may then be notified of the matches found by the first comparison that are based on the credit score and of the matches found by the more detailed comparison based on the attributes of the consumer's credit file.
US08412581B1 Facilitating business transactions between trading networks
A method of establishing an interconnection between trading networks may include receiving at a home operator of a home trading network an access establishment request communicated from a home user. The access establishment request may include a request to establish access to a desired application. The desired application may be associated with a foreign trading network coupled to the home trading network via a computer network. The method may further include communicating the access establishment request from the home operator to a foreign operator of the foreign trading network; receiving at the home operator an approval of the access establishment request communicated from the foreign operator, if appropriate; establishing an application access allowing the home user to use the desired application; and communicating a transaction communication to the desired application. The transaction communication may relate to a business transaction.
US08412577B2 Narrowcasting from public displays, and related methods
A user with a cell phone interacts, in a personalized session, with an electronic sign system. In some embodiments, the user's location relative to the sign is discerned from camera imagery—either imagery captured by the cell phone (i.e., of the sign), or captured by the sign system (i.e., of the user). Demographic information about the user can be estimated from imagery captured acquired by the sign system, or can be accessed from stored profile data associated with the user. The sign system can transmit payoffs (e.g., digital coupons or other response data) to viewers—customized per user demographics. In some arrangements, the payoff data is represented by digital watermark data encoded in the signage content. The encoding can take into account the user's location relative to the sign—allowing geometrical targeting of different payoffs to differently-located viewers. Other embodiments allow a user to engage an electronic sign system for interactive game play, using the cell phone as a controller.
US08412570B1 Providing recommendations for reciprocal links in website creation system
A method, within a computer hardware system, includes the following. A second functional marketing element and a first website are associated with a first user. A first functional marketing element and a second website are associated with a second user. The first functional marketing element is inserted within the first website. At least one recommended website, associated with the computer hardware system, into which the second functional marketing element is to be reciprocally inserted is providing to the first user. The second functional marketing element is reciprocally inserted within the second website based upon the first functional marketing element being inserted within the first website. The at least one recommended website is different than the first website. The second functional marketing element, within the second website, includes a link to the first website. The first functional marketing element, within the first website, includes a link to the second website.
US08412567B2 System and method for computerized sales optimization
Disclosed is a method for increasing the conversion rate, or the ratio of the number of actual buyers to the number of site visitors, of an computer-implemented system such as an Internet e-commerce website. Shopping cart abandonment may be reduced though the disclosed method wherein filler items are suggested to the consumer in order to qualify the consumer for a promotional bonus, such as free shipping. By simplifying the consumer's task of selecting filler items, the consumer may be more likely to consummate the sale instead of abandoning the shopping cart to find a better deal elsewhere. In the event no suitable filler items can be identified, alternative promotions may be presented to the consumer, for example, reduced rate shipping.
US08412565B2 Apparatus, method and program for formulating and solving problems over a network
In an apparatus, method and computer memory for interactive problem solving on a network, a server receives from a first participant via the network a formulation of a problem to be solved. The server receives from other participants via the network suggested solutions to the problem, and distributes portions of an award to those participants who contribute suggested solutions to the problem.
US08412561B2 Business case evaluation system and methods thereof
A system and method to offer a one or more experiences using various layers to at least one customer is disclosed. The method includes user experience layer having a first plurality of components owned by at least one service provider to evaluate a plurality of experimental changes of the at least one customer. The method further includes user service layer having a second plurality of components owned by the at least one service provider to offer a first plurality of services for the at least one customer. The method further includes an adaptation layer, a network service layer, a protocol layer and a platform layer having one or more components to provide one or more functionalities. Additionally, the method further includes a monitoring and control layer with one or more components to build management information across the one or more layers.
US08412553B2 Information processing system, information processing method, and computer readable medium storing program
An information processing system includes a setting unit, an obtaining unit, a calculating unit, a display information generating unit, and an updating unit. The setting unit sets activity schedule information indicating an activity schedule of a user in an evaluation target period on the basis of an activity which is selected from among plural activities. The obtaining unit obtains activity information specifying the activity that has been performed by at least one point of time within the evaluation target period. The calculating unit calculates a total environmental load value of the activity in the evaluation target period. The display information generating unit generates display information including the total environmental load value and a target value of an environmental load. The updating unit updates the activity scheduled in the activity schedule information.
US08412548B2 Linked decision nodes in a business process model
Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to decision node processing in a business process model and provide a method, system and computer program product for linked decision nodes in business process models. In an embodiment of the invention, a business process model simulation method can be provided. The method can include loading a business process model for simulation, designating a decision node in the business process model as a master decision node and linking another decision node in the business process model as a slave decision node to the master decision node. The method further can include simulating the master decision node to select an output pin and storing the selected output pin in association with the master decision node, and applying the selected output pin in the slave decision node when arriving at the slave decision node during the simulation without simulating the slave decision node.
US08412544B2 Method and apparatus of determining a radiation dose quality index in medical imaging
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus which quantifies radiation safety in medical imaging through the creation and analysis of objective data for each individual imaging procedure with respect to acquisition parameters, calculated radiation dose, and clinical data related to imaging examination selection and performance. The present invention also calculates a cumulative radiation dose based upon an individual patient's entire medical record, along with occupational and environmental exposures, to calculate a dynamic cumulative radiation-induced carcinogenesis risk. The present invention provides reforms to improve patient safety, quality and accountability, by creating a technology which simultaneously records and tracks objective data referable to radiation safety, medical imaging quality, and accountability among the various stakeholders and technologies in use. This quantifiable data is referred to as the Radiation Dose Quality Index (RDQI), and creates an objective, data-driven measure of quality and safety as it relates to medical practice.
US08412543B2 Template based filtering and summations flowsheet
A system and method are provided for providing a moveable summary column for a patient based medical flow sheet. The summary column can provide various summations of the patient's data records for any time period depending on where the moveable summation column is placed. The summation of the various patient data depends on the summation parameters defined in the medical flow sheet. The summary column can be moved by the user to any spot in the patient data portion of the medical flow sheet to sum up different intervals of data. The moveable summation column will present summary data for each of the patient parameters as designated by the medical flow sheet developers depending on the placement of the summation column.
US08412540B2 Healthcare eligibility transactions
Methods and systems permit registration of a service provider and permit eligibility information to be provided to the service provider. Registration information is received over a financial network from a point-of-sale terminal. The registration information has an identifier associated with the point-of-sale terminal and an identification of the service provider. The identifier is associated with information identifying a device disposed at a location of the service provider in a database, permitting a communication path to the device to be established. A confirmation of registration of the point-of-sale terminal is transmitted to the device over the communication path.
US08412537B1 System and method for episode service item cost estimation based on historical data
A system is implemented to collect data from a plurality of different sources. The data comprises information about episodes experienced by a plurality of consumers. The system is configured to receive a cost estimate request from a user for a specified episode. The may access the data to determine a plurality of service items for the specified episode and the associated cost of each service item. An episode may be associated with one or many service items. The network-based service may generate a response to the cost estimate request. The response may include the plurality of service items determined for the specified episode and the associated cost information. The system may send the response to the user.
US08412530B2 Method and apparatus for detection of sentiment in automated transcriptions
A method for automatically detecting sentiments in an audio signal of an interaction held in a call center, including, receiving the audio signal from a logging and capturing unit. Performing audio analysis on the audio signal to obtain text spoken within the interaction. Segmenting the text into context units according to acoustic information acquired from the audio signal to identify units of speech bound by non-speech segments, wherein each context unit includes one or more words. Extracting a sentiment candidate context unit from the context units using a phonetic based search. Extracting linguistic features from the text of the sentiment candidate context unit and acoustic features from a segment of the audio signal associated with the sentiment candidate context unit. Determining in accordance with the linguistic features and acoustic features whether the sentiment candidate context unit is valid or erroneous, and determining sentiment polarity and intensity.
US08412523B2 Distributed dictation/transcription system
A distributed dictation/transcription system is provided. The system provides a client station, dictation manager, and dictation server networked such that the dictation manager selects a dictation server to transcribe audio from the client station. The dictation manager selects one of a plurality of dictation servers based on conventional load balancing and on a determination of whether the user profile is already uploaded to a dictation server. While selecting a dictation server or uploading a profile, the client may begin dictating, which audio would be stored in a buffer of dictation manager until a dictation server was selected or available. The user may receive in real time or near real time a display of the textual data that may be corrected by the user to update the user profile.
US08412522B2 Apparatus and method for queuing jobs in a distributed dictation /transcription system
A distributed dictation/transcription system is provided. The system provides a client station, dictation manager, and dictation server connected such that the dictation manager can select a dictation server to transcribe audio from the client station. A job queue at the dictation manager holds the queues the audio to be provided to the dictation servers. The dictation manager reviews all jobs in the job queue and send audio with a user profile matching a user profile already uploaded to the dictation server regardless of whether the matching audio is next in the job queue. If alternative audio has been pending over a predetermined amount of time or has a higher priority, the alternative audio is sent to the dictation server.
US08412516B2 Document analysis, commenting, and reporting system
A document analysis, commenting, and reporting system provides tools that automate quality assurance analysis tailored to specific document types. As one example, the specific document type may be a requirements specification and the system may tag different parts of requirements, including actors, entities, modes, and a remainder. However, the flexibility of the system permits analysis of any other document type, such as instruction manuals and best practices guides. The system helps avoid confusion over the document when it is delivered because of non-standard terms, ambiguous language, conflicts between document sections, incomplete or inaccurate descriptions, size and complexity of the document, and other issues.
US08412515B2 System for normalizing a discourse representation structure and normalized data structure
A system and method for normalizing a discourse representation structure (DRS) are provided. The elements of the structure are rewritten and sorted in a way such that structures which may appear different but are nonetheless equivalent can be associated with the same, normalized representation. Various embodiments can also include a data structure for a DRS. The DRS may be represented by an array of boxes, each having a set of elements which in turn has a predefined structure suitable for representing a wide variety of linguistic information.
US08412506B2 Electromagnetic field simulation apparatus and computer readable storage medium storing electromagnetic field simulation program
A computer readable storage medium storing an electromagnetic field simulation program that causes a computer to execute receiving data defining, in virtual space, a shape of a conductor and an insulator included in a conductive layer and a dielectric layer of a printed circuit board; setting a plurality of cells in the virtual space by arranging nodes of the cells on a boundary between the conductive layer and the dielectric layer in a thickness direction of the printed circuit board and by arranging nodes of the cells at regular intervals in a plane parallel to the printed circuit board; giving, to each of the cells, an electric constant of a medium occupying an area of each of the cells; and determining a change over time in a an electromagnetic field strength in each of the cells.
US08412503B2 Simulation system of cardiac function, simulation method of cardiac function, simulation program of cardiac function, and composite material sheet
To provide a simulation system of cardiac function utilizing a cardiac structure model which is generated based on an appropriate composite material view representing the myocardial tissue. A simulation system of cardiac function to predict a change in cardiac geometry using a cardiac structure model contains a material specification input part 11 to determine both connective tissue data and myocyte data, a geometry data input part 13 to input geometry data of three-dimensional geometry of a heart, and a cardiac-structure-model construction part 14 wherein a cardiac structure model assumes assembly of finite elements based on continuum data of three-dimensional geometry defined by geometry data and made of composite material containing matrix and reinforcement fiber, and possesses mechanical properties of reinforcement fiber reflecting mechanical properties of connective tissue data and mechanical properties of matrix reflecting mechanical properties of myocyte data. The simulation system also contains a simulation part 15 which predicts a change of geometry of the cardiac structure model produced by pressure load utilizing finite element method with computation.
US08412491B2 System and method for electric patterns discovery
A system and method for analyzing a customer load and/or generation profile in order to disaggregate the customer load and/or generation profile is provided. The analysis of the customer load and/or customer generation profile may thereby determine the one or more devices that are operating and that contribute to the customer load and/or generation profile. In this way, the system and method may automatically analyze the customer load and/or generation profile in order to determine the one or more devices that contribute to the load and/or generation profile.
US08412485B2 System and method of monitoring a load condition of a vehicle
A system and method for indicating the load condition of a vehicle having suspension components comprising: at least one of an inclinometer or an accelerometer mounted on at least one suspension component to measure the deflection angle of the suspension component; and a controller configured to use deflection angle and generate an output representative of the load condition of the vehicle.
US08412477B2 Method and arrangement for digital measuring a capacitive sensor
An arrangement for digital measuring a capacitive sensor is provided with a charge balance frequency converter having an operational amplifier with an inverting input, a noninverting input and an output. Between the output and the inverting input an integrating capacitor is connected, and the noninverting input is connected with a reference potential. The arrangement provides a simple switched capacitor architecture for measuring the sensor capacitance, which tolerates grounded sensor capacitors, and which is not affected by the shunt resistance. The value of the shunt resistance is determined at the same time. The arrangement makes use of a two frequency measurement of the capacitor resistance combination by using the charge balancing procedure followed by a calculation based on the results of two conversions and the ratio of the clock frequencies of the first and second conversion.
US08412469B1 Environmental monitoring of microbe metabolic transformation
Mobile system and method for monitoring environmental parameters involved in growth or metabolic transformation of algae in a liquid. Each of one or more mobile apparati, suspended or partly or wholly submerged in the liquid, includes at least first and second environmental sensors that sense and transmit distinct first and second environmental, growth or transformation parameter values, such as liquid temperature, temperature of gas adjacent to and above the exposed surface, liquid pH, liquid salinity, liquid turbidity, O2 dissolved in the liquid, CO2 contained in the liquid, oxidization and reduction potential of the liquid, nutrient concentrations in the liquid, nitrate concentration in the liquid, ammonium concentration in the liquid, bicarbonate concentration in the liquid, phosphate concentration in the liquid, light intensity at the liquid surface, electrical conductivity of the liquid, and a parameter α(alga) associated with growth stage of the alga, using PAM fluorometry or other suitable parameter measurements.
US08412467B2 Nucleic acid sequencing system and method
A technique for sequencing nucleic acids in an automated or semi-automated manner is disclosed. Sample arrays of a multitude of nucleic acid sites are processed in multiple cycles to add nucleotides to the material to be sequenced, detect the nucleotides added to sites, and to de-block the added nucleotides of blocking agents and tags used to identify the last added nucleotide. Multiple parameters of the system are monitored to enable diagnosis and correction of problems as they occur during sequencing of the samples. Quality control routines are run during sequencing to determine quality of samples, and quality of the data collected.
US08412464B1 Methods for detection and identification of cell type
A process is provided for identifying a cell type in a sample that includes identification of one or more peptide sequences in the sample. Each peptide sequence is assigned to a protein of known sequence. A matrix of assignments is generated for the presence or absence of each peptide in one or more cells. The matrix of assignments is rearranged according to cell classification. A cell type based on the most probable cell classification is identified.
US08412463B2 Methods of associating an unknown biological specimen with a family
The present invention provides at least three methods of predicting whether an unknown biological specimen originates from a member of a particular family. These methods compare DNA profiles from unknown biological specimens to DNA profiles of more than one family member, which significantly increases the methods' identification ability. In particular, the invention describes combining at least a ranked first family member list and a ranked second family member list to create a combined ranked list and identifying the unknown biological specimen as one contained among a list of specimens having the highest combined rankings representing the candidates that are most likely related to the family. A second method encompasses comparing test DNA profiles from unknown biological specimens to a family pedigree comprising target DNA profiles obtained from multiple biological specimens of family members. This method also embodies using a modified Elston Stewart algorithm to determine a pedigree likelihood ratio to rank and identify the test profile of the unknown biological specimen most likely to be the missing person sought after by the corresponding family represented by the family pedigree. A third method encompasses construction of a database or directed graph of discovered or known relationships between biological specimens and comparison to a graph representing a family pedigree to identify portions of the database or directed graph that correspond to portions of the family pedigree, in order to rank or identify one or more unknown biological specimens as most likely related to one or more family pedigrees.
US08412460B2 Methods and systems for characterizing a cellular constituent using response profiles
The invention relates to methods and systems (e.g., computer systems and computer program products) for characterizing cellular constituents, particularly genes and gene products. In particular, the invention provides methods for assigning or determining the biological function of uncharacterized genes and gene products by using “response profiles,” i.e., measurements of pluralities of cellular constituents in cells having a modified gene or gene product, as phenotypic markers for the gene or gene product. Methods are provided for clustering such response profiles so that similar or correlated response profiles are organized into the same cluster. The invention also provides databases or “compendiums” of response profiles to which the response profile of an uncharacterized gene or gene product can compared.
US08412442B2 Method of engine starting
An engine starting method is disclosed. In one example, engine operation is adjusted to reduce catalyst light off time. Exhaust temperatures may be increased until a threshold engine temperature is reached.
US08412431B2 Materials handling vehicle having a control apparatus for determining an acceleration value
A materials handling vehicle is provided comprising: a frame; wheels supported on the frame; a traction motor coupled to one of the wheels to effect rotation of the one wheel; a speed control element operable by an operator to define a speed control signal corresponding to a desired speed of the traction motor; a system associated with a steerable wheel to effect angular movement of the steerable wheel; and control apparatus coupled to the speed control element to receive the speed control signal, and coupled to the traction motor to generate a drive signal to the traction motor in response to the speed control signal to control the operation of the traction motor. The control apparatus may determine an acceleration value for the traction motor based on at least one of an angular position of the steerable wheel, a speed of the traction motor and a current position of the speed control element as defined by the speed control signal.
US08412428B2 System for and method of detecting clutch engagement of a manual transmission
A system and method of detecting clutch engagement of a manual transmission of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The system and method include a clutch switch for detecting clutch engagement and a backup method for detecting clutch engagement. The backup method includes varying a target speed of an engine drive shaft of the motor vehicle and comparing the speed of the engine drive shaft with the speed of a mainshaft of the motor vehicle.
US08412425B2 Transmission control module
An exemplary transmission system includes a plurality of sensors each configured to output a signal at least partially representative of a speed of at least one of a first transmission input shaft, a second transmission input shaft, a transmission output shaft, and an engine. A transmission control module is in communication with the plurality of sensors and is configured to identify at least one of the plurality of sensors as a failed sensor and another of the plurality of sensors as a working sensor. The transmission control module is further configured to estimate the signal of the failed sensor based on a predetermined relationship between an expected signal from the failed sensor and the signal received from the working sensor.
US08412424B2 Vehicle pneumatic booster system operating method and apparatus
An apparatus and method for improving vehicle performance by application of pneumatic boost to vehicle engines, including diesel engines having at least one turbocharger supplying air to the engine, in a manner which increases engine torque output while minimizing the potential for exceed various operating limits to the maximum practicable extent. The vehicle's pneumatic booster system controller implements strategies for shaping the rate of the air injection during a boost event, tailoring the air injection to obtain maximum engine torque output while respecting the operating limits, by controlling the timing, duration, quantity and/or injection pattern during a boost event to achieve a refined distribution of compressed air injection over the course of the boost event to provide desired engine torque output and fuel efficiency while minimizing the potential for exceeding a wide variety of operation limits, regulatory, engineering and passenger comfort limits.
US08412422B2 Vehicle control apparatus, vehicle control method, computer program for implementing same method, and data storage medium storing same computer program
A vehicle control apparatus including a brake mechanism that produces braking force through actuation of a first actuator, a shift mechanism that changes the shift position of a transmission through actuation of a second actuator, a controller that controls the electric power supplied to the first actuator and the electric power supplied to the second actuator; a first electric power supply unit that supplies electric power to the controller; a second electric power supply unit that supplies electric power to the first actuator; and a third electric power supply unit that supplies electric power to the second actuator. An actuator control unit controls the electric power supplied to the second actuator from the second electric power supply unit or from the third electric power supply unit when the second actuator is not able to operate using electric power supplied from the first electric power supply unit.
US08412420B2 Wheel lean control
A work vehicle comprises a leanable traction wheel. A control unit of the work vehicle is configured to cause the wheel to move to a wheel-lean angle setpoint.
US08412417B2 Seatbelt device of vehicle and method controlling the seatbelt device of vehicle
A seatbelt device of a vehicle, the seatbelt device comprising: a belt reel around which a webbing, used to tie down a passenger seated in the vehicle, is wrapped up; a motor transmitting a driving force to the belt reel; an electric current detection unit detecting an electric current flowing through the motor; a vehicle-condition detection unit detecting a condition of the vehicle; a rotation detection unit detecting a rotational position of the belt reel; and a control unit that sets a target electric current corresponding to a predetermined vehicle condition detected by the vehicle-condition detection unit and controls the motor so that the electric current detected by the electric current detection unit equals the target electric current.
US08412416B2 Collision warning device having guardrail detection
A collision warning device for motor vehicles includes: a locating system for locating objects in the area in front of the vehicle; a control device for evaluating the data of the locating system and for outputting a warning signal in the event of an imminent risk of a collision; and a detection module for detecting the course of guardrails with the aid of the data of the locating system. In the control device an additional warning function is implemented, which calculates, with the aid of the dynamic state of the vehicle and with the aid of the detected guardrail course, a parameter for the transverse dynamics of the vehicle, which is required to avert a collision with the guardrail, and which outputs a warning signal when this parameter is larger than a predefined value.
US08412412B2 Vehicle communication system and electronic control unit
A vehicle communication system including a master ECU and multiple slave ECUs is disclosed. Each slave ECU initializes its storage medium if an abnormality occurs in the storage medium, and transmits a stored vehicle common information element. Some of the multiple slave ECUs are volatile memory slave ECUs in which the storage medium is a volatile memory. If the master ECU receives the common information elements from all of the volatile memory slave ECUs, and if at least one but not all of the received common information elements has an initialized initial value, the master ECU determines that a memory abnormality has occurred in the storage medium of the volatile memory slave ECU in which the common information element has the initialized initial value.
US08412403B2 Method and device for increasing the precision of the position determination of a motor-driven closure element of a vehicle
In a method and a device for increasing the precision of the position determination of a motor-driven closure element of a vehicle, the data corresponding to a force-displacement reference curve and the data corresponding to a force-displacement actual value curve are used, a correlation function is calculated, the maximum thereof is found, and the counter status of a position counter is corrected by using the position offset associated with the determined maximum.
US08412400B2 System and method for coordinating movement of mobile drive units
A method for moving one or more mobile drive units within a workspace includes receiving, from a first mobile drive unit, a reservation request requesting use of a first path segment to move in a first direction. The method further includes determining that a second mobile drive unit is currently located on the first path segment and determining whether the second mobile drive unit is moving in the first direction. Additionally, the method includes transmitting a reservation response indicating that the reservation request is denied, in response to determining that the second mobile drive unit is not moving in the first direction. The method also includes transmitting a reservation response indicating that the reservation request is granted, in response to determining that the second mobile drive unit is moving in the first direction.
US08412396B2 Electric launch of a hybrid vehicle having a belt alternator starter and a dual clutch transmission
A controller-executable method provides an electric-only (EV) launch mode in a vehicle having an accelerator pedal, an engine, a motor generator unit (MGU), a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), and a belt alternator starter system adapted for selectively rotating the crankshaft using motor torque from the MGU. Execution of the method uses motor torque from the MGU, while the engine is off, to accelerate the crankshaft to above a calibrated launch speed when a threshold minimum force is applied to the pedal. A designated one of the odd- and even-gear clutches of the DCT are controlled until input torque to the DCT equals a calibrated level. The other DCT clutch may be modulated to dampen drivetrain oscillations. The vehicle launches in the EV launch mode via the designated DCT clutch when the crankshaft speed exceeds an input speed of the DCT. The vehicle and controller are also provided.
US08412391B2 Proximity spacecraft maneuvering
Provided is a method and system for maneuvering a first spacecraft relative to a nearby second spacecraft that occupies a finite volume of space including obstacles in the vicinity of the second from a measured present relative position to a desired ending relative position. A trajectory is computed for the first spacecraft from the present relative position to the ending relative position using the A* algorithm. One or more thrusters of the first spacecraft are then fired. The first spacecraft's relative position and velocity are then measured and compared to the computed trajectory.
US08412387B2 Apparatus for controlling a power using a smart device and method thereof
A smart device is discussed, which is connected to a smart grid to perform a power saving function. According to an embodiment, the smart device includes a power information receiving unit configured to receive power information through the smart grid network; a power saving control unit configured to perform the power saving function for at least one apparatus based on the power information in a power saving mode; at least one mode switching unit configured to switch from the power saving mode to a manual mode according to a user command; and a manual mode operational time determining unit configured to determine a manual mode operational time for operating the at least one apparatus in the manual mode, the at least one mode switching unit further configured to switch from the manual mode back to the power saving mode, automatically, when the manual mode operational time expires.
US08412383B2 Method and apparatus for dehumidifying granular material
Granular material is dehumidified by: a) providing a number of dry air generators inside hoppers containing granular material; b) for each dry air generator, evaluating the dry air flow generable and/or higher energy efficiency functioning time; c) calculating the dry air flow rate for each single hopper depending on the characteristics of the granular material; and d) activating a number of generators sufficient to deliver a total dry air flow rate equal to the sum of the flow rates required by the hoppers. The number of the generators and the generators to be activated are chosen depending on the flow rate deliverable by each and/or by their respective ranges of functioning at higher energy efficiency according to an energy saving logic. The remaining generators are deactivated.
US08412382B2 Zone based energy management system
According to an aspect of the disclosure, a zone based energy management system includes controlling at least one network device at a site using the proximity detection of a mobile device which may be based upon the detection of a plurality of zones. The network device may be a thermostat associated with the HVAC system of the site or other energy consuming appliances. Each of the zones may be associated with a corresponding temperature set-point of the thermostat or other energy consuming device where the temperature set point corresponding to a zone may be different from the temperature set points corresponding with each of the other zones.
US08412381B2 HVAC control system
A method controls a heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system by determining a travel time from a mobile site to a fixed site, and determining a conditioning time for a HVAC system at the fixed site. The HVAC is maintained in an ON state if the travel time is less than the conditioning time, and otherwise maintaining the HVAC in an OFF state, and wherein the conditioning time is determined using a building thermal model.
US08412374B2 System and method for communicating vending information
A system and method for communicating vending information is provided. The system includes a plurality of vending apparatuses, each containing a vending inventory comprised of vendible media products, and a control center in communication with the plurality of vending apparatuses configured to receive user information. The user information can include a vending request for a vendible media product and a location identifier. The system is further configured to select a vending apparatus from the plurality of vending apparatuses based on the location identifier, determine whether the requested vendible media product is in the vending inventory of the selected vending apparatus, and transmit an electronic message to a user-specified electronic mail address upon determining that the requested vendible media product is in the vending inventory of the selected vending machine.
US08412370B2 Polishing apparatus with dressing position setting means
While data that indicate a relationship between a dressing position P defined by a distance between a rotating shaft 11 of a polishing pad 13 and a rotating shaft 31 of a dresser 30 and shape change of the polishing pad 13 based on input of a target shape of the polishing pad 13 and alternating repetition of dressing the polishing pad 13 by the dresser 30 and measurement of shape of the polishing pad 13 by a pad shape measurement instrument 20 is acquired at a stage prior to commencement of a series of polishing steps for continuously polishing a plurality of polishing target objects (semiconductor wafer W) by a polishing tool 10, the polishing pad 13 is machined to the target shape 13 while the dressing position P is controlled, whereby the dressing position P is set during the polishing steps on the basis of a processing result of this data.
US08412365B2 Spectral translation/folding in the subband domain
The present invention relates to a new method and apparatus for improvement of High Frequency Reconstruction (HFR) techniques using frequency translation or folding or a combination thereof. The proposed invention is applicable to audio source coding systems, and offers significantly reduced computational complexity. This is accomplished by means of frequency translation or folding in the subband domain, preferably integrated with spectral envelope adjustment in the same domain. The concept of dissonance guard-band filtering is further presented. The proposed invention offers a low-complexity, intermediate quality HFR method useful in speech and natural audio coding applications.
US08412363B2 Methods and apparatus for mixing compressed digital bit streams
Methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture for mixing compressed digital bit streams are disclosed. An example method disclosed herein comprises acquiring a frame associated with a first compressed digital bit stream, unpacking the frame to obtain a plurality of original transform coefficient sets, and modifying the plurality of original transform coefficient sets to mix a second digital bit stream with the first compressed digital bit stream.
US08412360B2 Method and system for robust attenuation of mechanical resonances using a multi-rate low pass filter
A system for a providing a multi-rate digital low pass filter that attenuates high frequency resonances in a control signal. The filter described by a transfer function having a phase-advanced factor (or an approximation of phase-advanced factor) and a low pass filtering function; either cancels or avoids an unstable pole in the phase advanced factor at z=−1.
US08412350B2 Neurostimulating lead having a stent-like anchor
A neurostimulating lead having a stent-like anchor is described. A distal portion of the lead is mounted to an exterior of an expandable, stent-like lead anchor. The stent-like lead anchor is formed from a superelastic material and is adapted to transition from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration upon deployment in a vessel. In the expanded configuration, the lead anchor presses the distal portion of the lead against at least one vessel wall of a vessel in which the lead is deployed securing and stabilizing the distal portion of the lead within the vessel.
US08412347B2 Methods and apparatus for leads for implantable devices
A charge pump is provided in the same integrated circuit chip as a control means which permits selectively connecting any of one or more electrodes with conductors along a lead. The charge pump derives about two volts from a one-volt supply, and becomes stable within a few tens of microseconds. The charge pump may be composed of three doublers—the first generating timing signals for the second and third doublers, with the second and third doublers working out of phase with each other.
US08412346B2 Induction heating for the delivery of thermal therapy
An induction heating apparatus includes a first interventional device and a second interventional device. The first interventional device includes an electrically conductive material. The first interventional device is adapted for implantation inside a body and for receiving an alternating current. The second interventional device comprises a magnetically conductive material. The second interventional device is adapted for implantation inside the body in close proximity to the first interventional device. With both devices placed inside the body, the second interventional device magnetically couples with the first interventional device and the second interventional device generates heat upon the application of the alternating current to the first interventional device thereby heating the body site.
US08412340B2 Tonality-based optimization of sound sensation for a cochlear implant patient
Methods and systems of optimizing sound sensation of a cochlear implant patient include dividing an audio signal into a plurality of analysis channels, generating one or more tonality indices each representing a tonality of one of the analysis channels, generating one or more stimulation pulses configured to represent the audio signal in accordance with one or more stimulation parameters, and adjusting at least one of the stimulation parameters based on at least one of the tonality indices.
US08412338B2 Devices and methods for optimizing electrode placement for anti-inflamatory stimulation
Described herein are methods, devices and system for selecting an optimum position of a stimulation electrode, and particularly methods, devices and systems for optimizing the position of a stimulation electrode for stimulating the inflammatory reflex and thereby inhibiting inflammation. The methods, devices and systems described herein may generally include the analysis of one or more artifact modalities arising after the application of a stimulation pulse. One or more of these artifact modalities (e.g., EMG, ECG, etc.) may be detected and used to generate a comparable indicator of the fitness of the position of the electrode relative to a target, such as a portion of the inflammatory reflex like the vagus nerve.
US08412336B2 Integrated delivery and visualization tool for a neuromodulation system
Methods and apparatus for delivering a neurostimulator to a target tissue are provided which may include any number of features. One feature is a delivery tool comprising a handle portion, an elongate shaft comprising a contoured distal portion, a visualization system embedded in the elongate shaft, and an insertion groove on the elongate shaft configured to deploy the neurostimulator. The contoured distal portion can be shaped and configured to maintain contact with a posterior maxilla and elevate a periosteum off of the posterior maxilla to avoid soft tissue dissection. In some embodiments, the neurostimulator is implanted in close proximity to or touching the sphenopalatine ganglion.
US08412334B2 Treatment of mood and/or anxiety disorders by electrical brain stimulation and/or drug infusion
A system and method for introducing one or more stimulating drugs and/or applying electrical stimulation to the brain to treat mood and/or anxiety disorders uses an implantable system control unit (SCU), specifically an implantable signal/pulse generator (IPG) or microstimulator with one or more electrodes in the case of electrical stimulation, and an implantable pump with one or more catheters in the case of drug infusion. In cases requiring both electrical and drug stimulation, one or more SCUs are used. Alternatively and preferably, when needed, an SCU provides both electrical stimulation and one or more stimulating drugs. In a preferred embodiment, the system is capable of open- and closed-loop operation. In closed-loop operation, at least one SCU includes a sensor, and the sensed condition is used to adjust stimulation parameters.
US08412332B2 Miniature wireless system for deep brain stimulation
An implantable system and method for deep brain stimulation (DBS) treatments. The implantable system is sufficiently small and self-contained to enable implantation of the entire system within the brain, or optionally within the brain and the surrounding tissue. The system comprises an implantable inductor on which a voltage is induced when subjected to an electromagnetic field, and an implantable device comprising a housing, stimulating elements at an exterior surface of the housing, and electronics within the housing and electrically connected to the implantable inductor. The electronics produces a brain-stimulating current from the voltage induced on the implantable inductor and then delivers the brain-stimulating current to the stimulating elements. Deep brain stimulation is performed by subjecting the inductor to an electromagnetic field to induce a voltage on the inductor that powers the electronics to produce and deliver the brain-stimulating current to the stimulating elements.
US08412330B2 Connector assemblies for implantable medical electrical systems
A device connector assembly includes a plurality of electrical contacts and a sealing member including a corresponding plurality of apertures; each electrical contact extends within a corresponding aperture of the plurality of apertures such that each contact is accessible for coupling with a corresponding connector element of a lead connector. The lead connector elements protrude from a first side of an insulative substrate of the lead connector, and may be coupled to the contacts of the device connector assembly by aligning each connector element with the corresponding aperture of the sealing member, and applying a force to a second side of the insulative substrate, opposite the first side, in order to press each connector element into engagement with the corresponding contact.
US08412321B2 Method of identifying strategies for treatment or prevention of ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia
The present invention relates to evaluating the effect of physiological conditions on the occurrence of ventricular fibrillation, identifying strategies for treatment or prevention of ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia, and evaluating a subject for induction of ventricular fibrillation from a condition of ventricular tachycardia.
US08412320B2 Nontransvenous and nonepicardial methods of cardiac treatment and stimulus
A power supply for an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for subcutaneous positioning between the third rib and the twelfth rib and using a lead system that does not directly contact a patient's heart or reside in the intrathoracic blood vessels and for providing anti-tachycardia pacing energy to the heart, comprising a capacitor subsystem for storing the anti-tachycardia pacing energy for delivery to the patient's heart; and a battery subsystem electrically coupled to the capacitor subsystem for providing the anti-tachycardia pacing energy to the capacitor subsystem.
US08412316B2 Atrial tachyarrhythmia detection system and method
A system and method provide for detecting atrial arrhythmias within an implantable medical device capable of sensing and pacing at least an atrium of a heart. Arrhythmia of the atrium is detected. In response to detecting atrial arrhythmia, delivery of pacing signals to the atrium is inhibited under certain conditions. While delivery of the pacing signals to the atrium is inhibited, the detected arrhythmia of the atrium is confirmed during a period of further evaluation. Delivery of pacing signals to the atrium is enabled upon ceasing of the atrial arrhythmia. Inhibiting delivery of the pacing signals during atrial arrhythmia evaluation advantageously provides for an increase in the rate at which the detected arrhythmia is confirmed.
US08412312B2 Apparatus, systems, and methods of in-vivo blood clearing in a lumen
In one aspect, the invention relates to a computer-implemented method of triggering optical coherence tomography data collection. The method includes collecting optical coherence tomography data with respect to a vessel using an optical coherence tomography probe disposed in the vessel; determining a clearing radius and a quality value for each frame of optical coherence tomography data collected for the vessel using a computer; determining if a blood clearing state has occurred using at least one clearing radius and at least one quality value; and generating a trigger signal in response to the blood clearing state.
US08412309B2 Medical device guiding system, medical device guiding method, and method for creating look-up table to be used in medical device guiding system
The accurate position detection without being affected by an unnecessary second magnetic field can be realized by calculating the unnecessary second magnetic field induced and generated at positions of magnetic field sensors by a guiding coil arranged the position detection area of the medical device due to an action of a first magnetic field generated by a magnetic field generator, at the time of position detection, and the second magnetic field is subtracted from the first magnetic field detected by the magnetic field sensors to calculate corrected magnetic-field information. Further, LUTs that store beforehand numerical information having a correlation with the second magnetic field induced and generated at the positions of magnetic field sensors are used to calculate the second magnetic field, thereby enabling to reduce an amount of calculation performed each time and realize high speed processing.
US08412305B2 Mobile multiple modality containment suite
There are occasions when a medical facility has the need to image subject that have been contaminated with a hazardous or communicable chemical or biological agent. Occurrences of such conditions are often too remote to justify having diagnostic scanners dedicated to such imaging. A contaminated or “hot” chamber (20) interfaces with one or more uncontaminated imaging suites or “cold” chambers (22). The hot chamber (20) includes barrier walls (16) with selectively deployable containment tubes (14) that when deployed, are sealed with the barrier wall (16) and extend from the barrier wall into the gantry of the cold chamber scanners. The tubes (14) extend the hot chamber (20) can be extended into the cold chambers (22) for imaging while remaining sealed, isolating the hot subjects from the cold imaging equipment. The imagers can thus be used for both normal clinical scanning and hot patient scanning.
US08412298B2 Probe device
In a probe device including a light irradiating portion irradiating a light to a surface of a living body, and a light detecting portion detecting the light passing through an inner portion of the living body so as to emit from the surface of the living body, the probe device is provided with a sheet-like probe holding body, a plurality of light emitting probes and a plurality of detection probes which are attached to the probe holding body at a predetermined interval, a board holding portion attached to a predetermined position of the probe holding portion, an electronic board attached to the board holding portion, a sheet holding portion holding the probe holding body at a predetermined position of a head portion (a tested position) of the test subject, and a fixing band portion for installing the sheet holding portion to the test subject.
US08412297B2 Forehead sensor placement
Forehead oximetry sensor devices and methods for determining physiological parameters using forehead oximetry sensors. One method includes placing an oximetry sensor on the forehead of a patient, such that the sensor is placed on the lower forehead region, above the eyebrow with the sensor optics placed lateral of the iris and proximal the temple; and operating the pulse oximeter to obtain the physiological parameter. In one aspect, the method also includes providing and placing a headband over the oximetry sensor, or alternately, the sensor is a headband-integrated sensor. The headband has an elastic segment sized to fit around the patient's head. The headband also includes a non-elastic segment that is smaller than and attached with the elastic segment. The non-elastic segment is sized to span a portion of the elastic segment when the elastic segment is stretched. In addition, the non-elastic segment is larger than the portion of the elastic segment it spans when the elastic segment is not stretched. When the headband or the headband-integrated sensor is sufficiently tight, it delivers a pressure in the range higher than the venous pressure and lower than the capillary pressure to the forehead of the patient.
US08412288B2 Optimization of power conservation with respect to application requirements
An apparatus comprising a power supply, a first interface coupled to the power supply and associated with a first operational mode and a second operational mode, and a second interface coupled to the power supply and associated with a third operational mode, wherein the wireless device is associated with an application having a response time requirement, wherein the first operational mode does not meets the response time requirement via the first interface, wherein the second operational mode meets the response time requirement via the first interface, wherein the third operational mode meets the response time requirement via the second interface, and wherein the apparatus is configured to consume less power using the first operational mode and the third operational mode than when using the second operational mode.
US08412286B2 Transceiver with power-saving function and the method thereof
The present invention provides a transceiver with power-saving function and the method thereof, in which when the network is on link-down status, the transmitter will enter the power-saving mode, and with an auxiliary circuit to provide a comfortable common-mode voltage and to present comfortable impedance matching to save the power consumption.
US08412278B2 List search method and mobile terminal supporting the same
A list search method and a mobile terminal that implements the list search method are provided. In the list search method, a plurality of search areas for outputting a plurality of index groups respectively are output in a display area where at least one list is output. The index groups include independent indexes or indexes linked with each other. Such operation occurs without screen switching and thereby enables a mobile terminal to implement a list search quickly and easily.
US08412276B2 Proximity type antenna and radio communication device
A proximity type antenna includes an antenna pattern for wirelessly communicating with an external communication device by magnetic coupling and a conductive plate arranged near the antenna pattern. The conductive plate has an aperture and a slit extending from the aperture to an end of the conductive plate and at least part of the aperture is arranged at a position of overlapping either the antenna pattern or the region surrounded by the inner periphery of the antenna pattern.
US08412268B2 Detection, identification and operation of pheripherals connected via an audio/video-plug to an electronic device
An electronic device including a jack arranged to receive a peripheral device A/V plug, the A/V plug providing an end-terminal for a peripheral device to be connected to the jack, wherein the device is arranged to detect insertion of the A/V plug, and upon detection of insertion, discriminate the functionality provided by the peripheral device.
US08412265B2 Electronic apparatus with photographing functions
An electronic apparatus with photographing function is disclosed. The electronic apparatus comprises a main body and a sliding structure. The main body comprises a lens module and a controlling module. The sliding structure is movably connected to the main body and comprises an optical module. The optical module comprises two light-incidence openings, and the distance between the two light-incidence openings is substantially equal to the average distance between a human's eyes. The lens module is capable of obtaining two images via the optical module through movement of the sliding structure. The two images may be processed via the controlling module to form a 3D image.
US08412257B2 Transmit format selection with consideration for resource reuse
Techniques for selecting transmit formats in a manner to account for the degrees of resource reuse for multiple data streams sent simultaneously from multiple antennas are described. The degree of resource reuse for each data stream indicates the amount of reuse of resources (e.g., orthogonal codes or subcarriers) observed by that stream. Interference estimates for the multiple data streams are derived based on an initial resource assignment. The degrees of resource reuse are determined based on the interference estimates and are used to derive at least one correction factor. At least one transmit format is then selected for the data streams using the at least one correction factor. Each data stream is associated with a transmit format that indicates the amount of resources to use for the data stream and other parameters. Resources are assigned to each data stream in accordance with its transmit format.
US08412248B2 Communication method, wireless communication system, transmitter, and receiver
A wireless system for allocating a predetermined number of subcarriers as a plurality of resource blocks to terminals includes a base station that communicates with the terminals, wherein the base station sets M resource blocks adjacent to one another in a frequency domain as a resource block group, M being a positive integer, and uses a first communication method and a second communication method, the first communication method repeatedly and sequentially classifying the resource block group into M kinds of subsets from a first subset to an M-th subset, and the second communication method allocating two resource blocks, which are separated by a predetermined distance in the frequency domain, to a same terminal, wherein the predetermined distance being an integer multiple of M times M.
US08412246B2 Systems and methods for coordinating the scheduling of beamformed data to reduce interference
A system and method are disclosed for coordinating the scheduling of beamformed data to reduce interference in a wireless system. A first optimum phase adjustment is determined to increase the gain of an intended signal at a mobile device. A second optimum phase adjustment is determined to decrease the gain of interfering signals received at the mobile device. Using a phase adjustment map, a transmission is scheduled at a base station within wireless resources using the first optimum phase adjustment, at the same time an interfering base station is transmitting at the second optimum phase adjustment angle. Thus, signal strength is greatly improved while interference is greatly reduced, improving the efficiency of the wireless system.
US08412234B1 Clustering location and time for location prediction
The invention is directed to methods for predicting future locations based on time clustering. Historical location data from a particular period of time is used to identify locations or places. The period of time is divided into even time slots. For each time slot, a probability distribution is computed by calculating a probability that the mobile device is located at each identified location during that time slot. The time slots are clustered into time slot groups based on similar probability distributions. For each time slot group, a probability distribution is calculated representing a probability that the mobile device is present at each location during the period of time defined by the time slot group.
US08412232B2 Methods and apparatuses for use in estimating a location of a mobile device within a structure
Methods and apparatuses are provided that may be implemented in a mobile device to determine two or more variations between a baseline probability distribution and two or more probability distributions for signals received from two or more sets of transmitters assigned to two or more regions of a structure. The methods and apparatuses may be further implemented to determine whether the mobile device is located in at least one of the two or more regions based, at least in part, on a comparison of the two or more determined variations.
US08412229B1 Position determining entity request filter
A method of operating a position determining entity filter comprises receiving a request for location assistance data transmitted from a wireless communication device, wherein the request is associated with a source packet address and includes a user identifier, and processing the request to determine if the user identifier is associated with the source packet address. The method further comprises, if the user identifier is not associated with the source packet address, initiating a count to track a number of requests for the location assistance data transmitted from the wireless communication device, and removing data previously associated with the user identifier and the source packet address. The method further comprises, if the user identifier is associated with the source packet address, incrementing the count and determining if a flag is assigned to the user identifier, inhibiting future requests if the flag is assigned to the user identifier, and if the flag is not assigned to the user identifier, determining if the count exceeds a threshold, and if the count exceeds the threshold, assigning the flag to the user identifier.
US08412227B2 Positioning using enhanced pilot signal
Briefly, in accordance with one embodiment, a method of transmitting signals is provided. Signal waveforms are transmitted from at least two respective sectors. The at least two respective sectors are from at least two different sets of a superset of sectors. The transmitted signal waveforms include signal waveforms at least nearly mutually orthogonal at least along a particular signal dimension. An advantage of such an embodiment, for example, is reduced signal interference.
US08412220B2 Method and system wherein timeslots allocated for common control channels may be reused for user traffic
A network apparatus for use in a wireless time division duplex (TDD) code division multiple access communication system includes a processor configured to allocate a time slot in a frame for a plurality of cells for transmission of data over a forward access channel (FACH). Each of the plurality of cells is allocated a different time slot in the frame for transmission of the data over the FACH.
US08412211B2 Transmission and reception of broadcast system information in a mobile communication system
The present invention relates to a method and transmission apparatus for transmitting broadcast system information in a mobile communication system. Further, the invention relates to a method and mobile terminal receiving the broadcast system information. To provide an improved method for broadcasting broadcast system information the invention suggests mapping different partitions of broadcast system information to a shared transport channel or a broadcast transport channel for transmission. The mapping may take into account parameters inherent to the mobile terminals to which the broadcast system information is to be transmitted and/or parameters inherent to the different partitions of broadcast system information.
US08412208B2 Autonomous fractional time reuse
Autonomous fractional time reuse is provided. In some embodiments, autonomous fractional time reuse includes determining a number of neighboring base stations of a base station in a heterogeneous network; and pseudo randomly selecting one or more Fractional Time Reuse (FTR) slots for transmission by the base station. In some embodiments, the one or more FTR slots are autonomously selected by the base station without coordinating the selection of the one or more FTR slots with one or more of the neighboring base stations.
US08412206B2 Communication system having network access structure
A communication system with an improved network access structure for inter-cell cooperation is provided. The communication system includes a central unit and at least one radio access unit. The at least one radio access unit may form at least one virtual cell by merging or separating cells of radio access units according to a distribution of terminals, statuses of channels, an amount of traffic, and the like.
US08412202B2 Method for accessing a service from a user's terminal via a heterogeneous network in which several types of access are available
The invention relates to a method for accessing a service from a user's terminal (1) through a heterogeneous network (3) in which several access types (5, 7, 9, 11) are available. The method comprises the following steps: upon reception of a request outputted by the terminal (1) for accessing a service, selecting through an access selection server (17) an access of the heterogeneous network (3) for the terminal (1), said access selection step including a resources reservation step (61) at the selected access; and sending (65) a selected access identifier to the terminal (1) through the access selection server (17).
US08412188B2 Managing session information in a wireless communications system
In an embodiment, a network communication entity (NCE) determines that an access terminal has re-entered a serving area of an access network, and also determines whether a given period of time, associated with a previous session of the access terminal in the serving area, has expired. If the NCE determines no expiration, the NCE re-activates session information associated with the previous session, including re-activation of an identifier that uniquely identifies the access terminal within the serving area. If the access terminal had a session in another serving area before re-entering the serving area, the NCE stores the session information for the access terminal in the other serving area in association with a period of time indicative of a duration during which the session information continues to be valid within the other serving area. The NCE may either correspond to the access terminal or a portion of the access network.
US08412187B2 Broadcast roaming
Embodiments are directed to broadcast roaming, i.e., providing service/content to a terminal from a visited service provider. An embodiment is directed to sending a roaming rule request to a service provider, receiving a roaming rule response from the service provider, acquiring service guide fragments from the service provider and processing the service guide fragments in accordance with the received roaming rule response, sending to a selected service provider a service provisioning request for a purchase item, receiving from the selected service provider a service provisioning response regarding the purchase item, and accessing service and/or content related to the purchase item, wherein the service and/or content is provided by the visited service provider. Embodiments are directed to exchanging between a visiting service provider and a home service provider of the terminal a roaming authorization request regarding a purchase item and a roaming authorization response regarding the purchase item.
US08412184B2 Communication switching method in communication system
Upon detection of an environmental change in a neighborhood, a cellular phone makes selections of a communication device and a communication path, which are used for a communication. A communication packet transmitted from a communication corresponding terminal is distributed to the cellular phone that is the destination of the communication packet, and a PC physically positioned in the neighborhood of the cellular phone, according to the results of the selections, thereby switching from a communication using only the cellular phone to a communication using both the cellular phone and the PC.
US08412182B2 Scheduling of uplink measurement reports
In a wireless communication system, the uplink transmission of measurement reports may be scheduled based on an estimated time of when a measurement report will be ready for transmission. The estimated time may be calculated at a base station or user equipment.
US08412167B1 Wireless communication system that selects and broadcasts FM media streams on a per-base station basis
A wireless communication system broadcasts using Frequency Modulation (FM) in a Very High Frequency (VHF) band. In the system, base stations exchange wireless communications with user devices including user media requests and the requested media. A control system processes the user media requests to identify media streams for individual base stations. The individual base stations wirelessly broadcast the media streams identified by the control system using FM in the VHF band. The base stations wirelessly notify the user devices of the media stream FM broadcasts.
US08412166B2 Location based system with contextual locator and method of operation thereof
A method of operation of a location based system includes: detecting an event; establishing a geofence associated with the event; setting a search time window associated with the event; identifying an event participant that is associated with the event; and identifying a matching target as the event participant located within the geofence during the search time window for displaying on a device.
US08412163B2 Local voicemail for mobile devices
This document describes various techniques for implementing local voicemail on a mobile device. These techniques may include enabling the mobile device to answer a voice call, record audio of the voice call to provide a voicemail file, and store the voicemail file to local computer-readable media. A locally stored voicemail file may be associated with relevant data, exposed via the associated data for local processing, and/or manipulated through a user interface of the mobile device.
US08412161B2 “I am driving/busy” automatic response system for mobile phones
A cell phone which has been modified by the addition of software which responds to the press of one or more Busy keys by automatically sending a pre-typed text message to the sender of the latest text message just received or automatically answering an incoming call immediately upon pressing the Busy key and playing a pre-recorded audio message. The outgoing text or audio message can inform the sender of the incoming text or the caller that the user is driving or otherwise engaged and cannot respond immediately. In some embodiments, one or more Busy keys can be added keys or one or more existing keys on the cell phone or on the keypad of the cell phone or on a touchscreen or a visual depiction of a keypad on a touchscreen of the cell phone.
US08412151B2 Payback calling plan
A method for paying back customers for unused service units remaining after a billing cycle. A payback amount is determined by the product of the number of unused service units remaining and the payback rate amount. The payback amount credited to the customer is the calculated payback rate or a maximum payback amount, wherever is smaller. A total payback amount can be determined based on a combination of payback amounts for various services, including voice services, texting services, email services, and/or data storage services.
US08412142B2 Multiple frequency band information signal universal front end with adjustable ADC(s)
A wireless device includes processing circuitry, a receiver section, a transmitter section, and an antenna. The processing circuitry determines a set of information signals of a RF Multiple Frequency Bands Multiple Standards (MFBMS) signal. The receiver section down-converts a portion of the RF MFBMS signal by one or more respective shift frequencies to produce a corresponding baseband/low Intermediate Frequency (BB/IF) information signal from which the processing circuitry extracts data. The transmitter section converts a respective BB/IF information signal received from the processing circuitry by a respective shift frequency to produce a corresponding RF information signal and a combiner that combines the RF information signals to form a RF MFBMS signal. The receiver section and the transmitter section include ADCs and/or DACs, respectively, that are adjustable based upon characteristics of the RF MFBMS signal, the BB/IF MFBMS signal, and/or based upon signals carried therein, e.g., modulation type, SNR requirements, etc.
US08412139B2 Methods of receiving multiple carriers using different RF mixer frequencies and related communications devices and receivers
Methods may be provided to simultaneously receive first and second RF (radio frequency) carriers over respective first and second RF carrier frequencies. More particularly, the first and second RF carriers may be provided at an RF mixer stage. During a first time period, the first and second RF carriers may be down converted through the RF mixer stage using a first RF mixer frequency to generate first downconverted signals, and the first downconverted signals may be processed to provide first and second DC carriers corresponding to the first and second RF earners. During a second time period, the first and second RF carriers may be downconverted through the RF mixer stage using a second RF mixer frequency to generate second downconverted signals with the first and second RF mixer frequencies being different, and the second downconverted signals may be processed to provide the first and second DC carriers corresponding to the first and second RF carriers. Related devices are also discussed.
US08412128B2 Method and system for a double search user group selection scheme with range reduction in TDD multiuser MIMO downlink transmission
Certain aspects of a method and system for processing signals in a communication system may include maximizing system capacity for a time division duplex (TDD) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system, based on reducing a search range within which to find a group of signals having maximum channel gain. At least one of: a first signal for a first user and a second signal for a second user may be selected, which are both within the reduced search range, and which provides a maximum system capacity. The first signal for the first user may be selected from the reduced search range corresponding to a channel gain that is greater than a channel gain corresponding to a remaining portion of the reduced search range. The reduced search range may be generated by sorting a plurality of signals based on a channel gain corresponding to each of the plurality of signals.
US08412107B2 On-board communication device and cooperative road-to-vehicle/car-to-car communication system
An on-board communication device and a cooperative road-to-vehicle/car-to-car communication system that are adaptable to a road-to-vehicle communication system and a car-to-car communication system. The on-board communication device includes a car-to-car communication transfer service processing section, a car-to-car communication management service processing section, an application processing section, a transaction managing section, a transfer service processing section, a transmission/reception service processing section, and a transmission/reception service managing section, in which the car-to-car communication transfer service processing section and the car-to-car communication management service processing section include interfaces to the transfer service processing section that is an existing road-to-vehicle communication protocol.
US08412098B2 Electronic equipment for a wireless communication system and method for operating an electronic equipment for a wireless communication system
The present invention relates to an electronic equipment for a wireless communication system comprising a near field interface (4) for exchanging contact information with at least one further electronic equipment via near field communication, said contact information serving for communicating within the wireless communication system, a group editing means (3) for creating a group of contact information comprising at least the received contact information, whereby each contact information of the group relates to an electronic equipment, and a communication means (8) for setting up a communication within the wireless communication system to the group of electronic equipments in accordance with the group of contact information. The present invention further relates to a method for operating such an electronic equipment.
US08412094B2 Position signal receiver
Apparatuses are described and disclosed which operate in a first mode to receive non-position signals, for example FM radio signals, and in a second mode of operation to receive land-based position signals, for example LORAN signals.
US08412076B2 Image forming apparatus
A toner pattern is detected by a color misregistration detection sensor to detect a duration of contact between a development roller and a photosensitive drum. A contact/separation motor for driving the development roller is accelerated or decelerated based on the detected duration of contact between the development roller and the photosensitive drum. This control enables shortening the duration of contact between the development roller and the photosensitive drum, thus reducing the shortening of their lifetime.
US08412075B2 Light deflector device and image forming apparatus
A light deflector device includes a light deflector having an oscillation system, a driving unit for driving the oscillation system and a drive controlling unit for supplying a drive signal. The oscillation system simultaneously generates a first oscillating motion of a first frequency and a second oscillating motion of a second frequency. The drive controlling unit supplies a drive signal formed by synthetically combining a first signal having the first frequency and a second signal having the second frequency to the driving unit and, at the same time, another drive signal for changing at least the amplitude of the first oscillating motion, the amplitude of second oscillating motion or the relative phase difference of the first oscillating motion and the second oscillating motion to the driving unit in order to correct an offset of scanning light deflected by the light deflector.
US08412064B2 Image forming apparatus to control photosensitive member irradiation
An image forming apparatus includes a rotatable photosensitive member, a charging member, an applying device, an irradiation device, and a controller. The charging member contacts the photosensitive member to charge the photosensitive member. The applying device applies a direct-current voltage to the charging member. The irradiation device irradiates with light an upstream charging gap located upstream of a contact portion between the photosensitive member and the charging member in a rotation direction of the photosensitive member. The controller controls the irradiation device to irradiate with a first light amount when the photosensitive member rotates at a first speed, and to irradiate with a second light amount that is larger than the first light amount when the photosensitive member rotates at a second speed that is lower than the first speed.
US08412056B2 Image forming apparatus performing image formation by conveying paper
An image forming apparatus includes a transfer belt that conveys a transfer material, and a photosensitive body that catches the transfer material between the photosensitive body and the transfer belt and that transfers a toner image to the transfer material. The transfer belt is driven in conjunction with the opening action of the front cover, and the photosensitive body is separated from the transfer belt in conjunction with the opening action of the front cover.
US08412045B2 Propagation apparatus and dispersion value setting method
A propagation apparatus includes a plurality of dispersion compensation execution units which accept a signal of a single wavelength from a wavelength-multiplexed signal which is received and execute dispersion compensation on the signal by inputting the accepted signal to a tunable dispersion compensator with an adjusted dispersion value, and a dispersion value calculation unit which acquires each dispersion value adjusted by the plurality of the dispersion compensation execution units, approximates the dispersion value of the wavelength assigned to a newly built line by using the acquired dispersion values whose signal error rates are in a tolerable range, and sets the approximated dispersion value as an initial value in the tunable dispersion compensator of the newly built line.
US08412040B2 Method and apparatus for mapping traffic using virtual concatenation
A node comprising a packet network interface, an ethernet switch, an optical port, and a distribution engine. The packet network interface adapted to receive a packet having a destination address and a first bit and a second bit. The ethernet switch is adapted to receive and forward the packet into a virtual queue associated with a destination. The optical port has circuitry for transmitting to a plurality of circuits. The distribution engine has one or more processors configured to execute processor executable code to cause the distribution engine to (1) read a first bit and a second bit from the virtual queue, (2) provide the first bit and the second bit to the at least one optical port for transmission to a first predetermined group of the plurality of circuits.
US08412039B2 Method for estimating bandwidth limiting effects in high frequency transmission communication systems
A method for estimating a bandwidth limiting penalty of a chain of bandpass optical filters in an optical telecommunication system. The method is advantageous for systems carrying an optical signal at a bit rate of about 10 Gb/s, wherein average bandwidth of the filters in the chain is of the same order of magnitude as bandwidth of the optical signal. The method comprises selecting a worst case filter, checking the system by testing and/or simulating it as being provided with the selected worst case filter instead of the chain of filters, and then judging about the bandwidth limiting penalty of the chain of filters based on results of the checking.
US08412019B2 Apparatus for and a method of storing a real time stream of digital information signals
An apparatus for recording a real time stream of digital information signals on a disc like record carrier has been proposed. The stream of information signals represent information arranged in a sequence of video frames, each video frame arranged in separate, consecutive data blocks comprised in separate, consecutive data packets. The apparatus comprises input means (1) for receiving the stream of digital signals, processing means (100) for processing the stream of digital information signals to obtain digital information signals and writing means (102) for writing the digital information signals into the units of recording on the disc like record carrier. The processing means (102) are adopted to detect the data blocks in the data packets and to allocate consecutive data blocks comprised in multiple data packets into consecutive logical units, a size of each logical unit corresponding to the predetermined size of the unit of recording. This apparatus is specifically suitable for recording digital video (DV).
US08412015B2 Segmented gain-doping of an optical fiber
The present disclosure provides an approach to more efficiently amplify signals by matching either the gain materials or the pump profile with the signal profile for a higher-order mode (HOM) signal. By doing so, more efficient energy extraction is achieved.
US08412014B2 Optical fiber ribbon capable of branching and method for making fiber ribbon branch
An optical fiber ribbon is capable of branching by means of any tool. The optical fiber ribbon is comprised of a plurality of optical fibers running in parallel, each of the optical fibers having an allowable radius of curvature; a blanket sheath totally covering the plurality of the optical fibers; one or more concavities formed at any one or more intermediates among the optical fibers; and slits respectively arranged in series at a regular interval along the concavities, the slits penetrating the blanket sheath and allowing the tool to be inserted and the blanket sheath to split by means of movement of the tool along the concavities. The length of each slit prior to insertion of the tool is so determined that flexures of the optical fibers induced by the tool widening the slits do not exceed the allowable radius of curvature.
US08412012B2 Compact, low-cost outside plant or indoor/outdoor cables
An optical fiber cable includes an unbuffered optical fiber, a tensile reinforcement member surrounding the unbuffered optical fiber, and a jacket surrounding the tensile reinforcement member. The jacket is suitable for outside plant environment. A water blocking material is placed between the unbuffered fiber and the jacket. The unbuffered optical fiber comprises an ultra bend-insensitive fiber that meets the requirements of ITU-T G.657.B3 and exhibits an additional loss of less than approximately 0.2 dB/turn when the fiber is wrapped around a 5 mm bend radius mandrel. The optical fiber cable also exhibits an additional loss of less than approximately 0.4 dB/km at 1550 nm when the cable is subjected to −20° C. outside plant environment.
US08412009B2 Optical fiber contact
An optical fiber contact for transmitting moderate-magnitude optical power. The fiber contact includes an optical fiber having an inner core and a surrounding cladding for transmitting the radiation in the core. Additional surrounding layers including so-called buffer and jackets mechanically stabilize the optical fiber. The forward part of the optical fiber contact is surrounded by a transparent tubular member. The tubular member extends a certain length along the outer cylindrical surface of the cladding. There is no heating by power loss radiation, as the power loss radiation is leaving the contact as optical radiation. To disperse radiation propagating within the cladding, the cladding includes a roughening or additional layers of a transparent material. In case of additional layers of transparent material then the outermost layer should be roughened.
US08412008B2 Semiconductor optical device
A semiconductor optical device includes a first optical waveguide including first, second, and third sections; a second optical waveguide including fourth, fifth, and sixth sections; an input optical coupler; and an output optical coupler. The first and second optical waveguides and the input and output optical couplers each include a first cladding layer composed of an n-type semiconductor and a core layer. The second and fifth sections each include an intermediate semiconductor layer on the core layer, and a second cladding layer composed of an n-type semiconductor. The first, third, fourth, and sixth sections and the input and output optical couplers each further include a third cladding layer on the core layer. At least one of the third cladding layers includes a first cladding section on the core layer and a second cladding section on the first cladding section. The second cladding section is composed of a semi-insulating semiconductor.
US08411997B2 Image capture device and program storage medium
An image capture device includes a capture unit configured to capture an image of an object, an object detection unit configured to detect the object in the image captured by the capture unit, an angle detection unit configured to detect an angle of the object detected by the object detection unit, and a control unit configured to perform a predetermined control operation for the image capture device based on the angle of the object detected by the angle detection unit.
US08411995B2 Deconvolution-based structured light system with geometrically plausible regularization
Systems and methods for processing images in a structured light system which may be used to determine the correspondences in a camera-projector system. Those correspondences can later be used to construct a 3D model, to calibrate a projector or for other purposes. The optical and geometric characteristics of the system are initially determined. The capability of establishing correspondences is affected by the limitations of the system and the properties of the surfaces. Once images of the patterns projected on the surface are acquired, they are iteratively segmented and deconvolved using the known characteristics of the system. The result is a set of correspondences with a reduction of artifacts introduced by the limitations of the system. The characteristics of the structured light system which may be used in the iterative segmentation and deconvolution may include the characteristics of a pattern projected on the scene or object, the physical characteristics of the structured light system, as well as the characteristics of the scene or object itself.
US08411993B2 Apparatus and method for reducing image noise
A spatial noise reducing section 20 calculates a spatial NR pixel value Snr by reducing spatial noise from an input pixel value Pin. A temporal noise reducing section 30 calculates a temporal NR pixel value Tnr by reducing temporal noise from the input pixel value Pin. A temporal noise reduction result determining section 50 compares the magnitude of the pixel values among the input pixel value Pin, the spatial NR pixel value Snr, and the temporal NR pixel value Tnr, and outputs, based on the comparison result, one of the pixel values as a noise reduction result (an output pixel value Pout). Thus, it is made possible to perform strong temporal noise reduction on a moving image while preventing generation of residual images in a motion image area.
US08411986B2 Systems and methods for segmenation by removal of monochromatic background with limitied intensity variations
A method for distinguishing a foreground object from a monochromatic background in a digital image depicting a foreground object in front of said monochromatic background. A outer edge intensity map is created of the foreground object to which a tracing process is conducted. A continuous edge map is created by utilizing the traced edges in the outer edge intensity map. By selecting a path on the continuous edge map based on average edge intensity, a final edge map is created. The pixels comprised within the final edge map are distinguished as the foreground object. Optionally, the final edge map may be refined utilizing certain techniques.
US08411979B2 Digital image processing and enhancing system and method with function of removing noise
The present invention provides a digital image processing enhancing system and method with denoising function. The collected digital image is input; the obtained digital image is decomposed into an illumination image and a reflection image, and then the decomposed illumination image and the reflection image is processed, at last, the processed illumination image and the reflection image are composed into an output image, which is output to an output device. The present invention can improve the image quality, remove the noises of the image, remain details features of an object and obtain the natural visual effect.
US08411955B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method and computer-readable medium
An image processing apparatus includes an extracting unit, a representative-image generating unit and a vector converting unit. The extracting unit extracts pixel blocks from image data. The representative-image generating unit generates representative images from the pixel blocks extracted by the extracting unit, based on a similarity between the pixel blocks. The vector converting unit converts the representative images generated by the representative-image generating unit into vector information.
US08411943B2 Method and apparatus for image signal color correction with reduced noise
A method and apparatus for applying color correction to image signals provides different color corrections depending on a characterization associated with a pixel signal being processed or the gain applied to the pixel signal such as a value of a pixel signal being processed. The color corrections may be configured such that darker pixels have less color correction applied to them.
US08411938B2 Multi-scale multi-camera adaptive fusion with contrast normalization
A computer implemented method for fusing images taken by a plurality of cameras is disclosed, comprising the steps of: receiving a plurality of images of the same scene taken by the plurality of cameras; generating Laplacian pyramid images for each source image of the plurality of images; applying contrast normalization to the Laplacian pyramids images; performing pixel-level fusion on the Laplacian pyramid images based on a local salience measure that reduces aliasing artifacts to produce one salience-selected Laplacian pyramid image for each pyramid level; and combining the salience-selected Laplacian pyramid images into a fused image. Applying contrast normalization further comprises, for each Laplacian image at a given level: obtaining an energy image from the Laplacian image; determining a gain factor that is based on at least the energy image and a target contrast; and multiplying the Laplacian image by a gain factor to produce a normalized Laplacian image.
US08411937B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method and computer-readable medium
An image processing apparatus includes an analyzing unit, a determining unit and a color conversion unit. The analyzing unit analyzes colors being used in an image. The determining unit determines, based on an analysis result provided by the analyzing unit, as to whether or not the colors being used in the image are converted into one or more limited colors. When the determining unit determines that the colors being used in the image are converted into the one or more limited colors, the color conversion unit converts the colors being used in the image into the one or more limited colors.
US08411936B2 Apparatus and method for color reproduction
A color-reproduction system is provided. The system includes an image-content-analysis unit that analyzes the color distribution of pixels that constitute an inputted image, a parameter-prediction unit that predicts scaling parameters based on the attribute information on the pixels, the color distribution, and the image size information, and a luminance-chroma-determination unit that determines the final luminance and chroma of the pixels using the predicted parameters.
US08411934B2 System and method for depth map extraction using region-based filtering
A system and method for extracting depth information from at least two images employing region-based filtering for reducing artifacts are provided. The present disclosure provides a post-processing algorithm or function for reducing the artifacts generated by scanline Dynamic Programming (DP) or other similar methods. The system and method provides for acquiring a first image and a second image from a scene, estimating the disparity of at least one point in the first image with at least one corresponding point in the second image to generate a disparity map, segmenting at least one of the first or second images into at least one region, and filtering the disparity map based on the segmented regions. Furthermore, anisotropic filters are employed, which have a great smoothing effect along the vertical direction than that of the horizontal direction, and therefore, reduce stripe artifacts without significantly blurring the depth boundaries.
US08411932B2 Example-based two-dimensional to three-dimensional image conversion method, computer readable medium therefor, and system
An example-based 2D to 3D image conversion method, a computer readable medium therefore, and a system are provided. The embodiments are based on an image database with depth information or with which depth information can be generated. With respect to a 2D image to be converted into 3D content, a matched background image is found from the database. In addition, graph-based segmentation and comparison techniques are employed to detect the foreground of the 2D image so that the relative depth map can be generated from the foreground and background information. Therefore, the 3D content can be provided with the 2D image plus the depth information. Thus, users can rapidly obtain the 3D content from the 2D image automatically and the rendering of the 3D content can be achieved.
US08411931B2 Methods and systems for converting 2D motion pictures for stereoscopic 3D exhibition
The present invention discloses methods of digitally converting 2D motion pictures or any other 2D image sequences to stereoscopic 3D image data for 3D exhibition. In one embodiment, various types of image data cues can be collected from 2D source images by various methods and then used for producing two distinct stereoscopic 3D views. Embodiments of the disclosed methods can be implemented within a highly efficient system comprising both software and computing hardware. The architectural model of some embodiments of the system is equally applicable to a wide range of conversion, re-mastering and visual enhancement applications for motion pictures and other image sequences, including converting a 2D motion picture or a 2D image sequence to 3D, re-mastering a motion picture or a video sequence to a different frame rate, enhancing the quality of a motion picture or other image sequences, or other conversions that facilitate further improvement in visual image quality within a projector to produce the enhanced images.
US08411929B2 Method and system for dynamic feature detection
Disclosed are methods and systems for dynamic feature detection of physical features of objects in the field of view of a sensor. Dynamic feature detection substantially reduces the effects of accidental alignment of physical features with the pixel grid of a digital image by using the relative motion of objects or material in and/or through the field of view to capture and process a plurality of images that correspond to a plurality of alignments. Estimates of the position, weight, and other attributes of a feature are based on an analysis of the appearance of the feature as it moves in the field of view and appears at a plurality of pixel grid alignments. The resulting reliability and accuracy is superior to prior art static feature detection systems and methods.
US08411921B2 Device and method for synchronizing an image capture device with a pre-operative image data set
The present invention relates to a device and a method for synchronizing an image capture device with a first image data set. The image capture device is used for recording a second image data set of a periodically moving area or object. Each first image data set contains information as to the point in time, relative to the periodically moving area or object, when recording took place. The device additionally acquires periodically recurring, current information of the area as well as information concerning the recording instant of the first image data set. From the periodically recurring information and the recording instant of the first image data set, a triggering instant is derived which controls at least one recording of the second image data set by the image capture device in such a way that the second image data set contains image data synchronized to the first image data set.
US08411917B2 Device for determining the 3D coordinates of an object, in particular of a tooth
A scanner is used for scanning an object (3, 4, 5), in particular a tooth or a plurality of teeth or a dental cast. The scanner (1) comprises a projector (2) for projecting a pattern (7) onto the object (3, 4, 5) and a camera which comprises a recording optics and an image sensor (18). To improve such scanner, the recording optics comprises a first imaging optics (9) and a second imaging optics (10).
US08411911B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and storage medium for storing program
An image processing apparatus comprises an image capture unit configured to capture an image, a characteristic part detector configured to detect a characteristic part of a face from the image captured by the image capture unit, an outline generator configured to generate a pseudo outline of the face based on positions of the characteristic part detected by the characteristic part detector and a correction unit configured to correct the image based on the pseudo outline generated by the outline generator.
US08411908B2 Imaging apparatus, control method, and recording medium thereof
An imaging apparatus is provided including an imaging unit configured to obtain image data, a display unit, and a communication unit configured to communicate with a plurality of external apparatuses. The imaging apparatus further includes a storing unit configured to store person identification information including at least face image data while associating the person recognition information with information relating to the external apparatuses, a collation unit configured to collate a target in the image data with the person identification information, a detection unit configured to detect an external apparatus that is communicating with the imaging apparatus, and a display control unit configured to display a plurality of pieces of face image data on the display unit each as a candidate of a transmission destination of the image data in an order based on a result of collation by the collation unit and a result of detection by the detection unit.
US08411896B2 Gauge reading device and system
A gauge monitoring system can include a parameter store that stores parameter data in digital form for at least one gauge. The parameter data can correspond to different gauge readings. An image processing circuit can be coupled to receive image data from an image sensor physically attached to at least one gauge. The image processing circuit can analyze the image data to generate image data points corresponding to the gauge image and generates a gauge reading from the image data points and the parameter data. A transmitting circuit transmit the gauge reading to a location remote from the gauge. A control circuit that activates the image processing circuit and couples the gauge reading to the transmitting circuit.
US08411893B2 Headphone
There is provided a headphone including: a housing that accommodates a driver unit; a sound guiding tube that protrudes from the housing in a predetermined direction and guides a sound generated from the driver unit to an external auditory canal; and a hanger that rotatably supports the housing via a supporting shaft provided in approximately the same direction as a depth direction of the external auditory canal and in a direction inclined to a protruding direction of the sound guiding tube. According to this structure, by rotating the housing with respect to the hanger via the supporting shaft, the protruding direction of the sound guiding tube with respect to the hanger can be adjusted. Thus, by adjusting the protruding direction of the sound guiding tube according to the inclined angle of the external auditory canal of a user, wearability of a headphone can be improved.
US08411892B2 Aesthetic linear speaker assembly
A linear speaker assembly including a plurality of speakers in side by side relation within a piece of furniture in such a manner that a horn element, a phase plug and other ancillary speaker structure forms a sound path that communicates from the speakers to the environment and the speaker assembly is partially concealed or camouflaged from the casual viewing of an observer. The phase plug and horn element are elongated and are provided along the entire length of the plurality of speakers which comprise a portion of the linear speaker assembly. The phase plug and horn element visually complement the outer portion of the piece of furniture that the plurality of speakers are disposed within. This permits the piece of furniture or other structure to provide amplified sound from a plurality of speakers in side by side relation in such a manner whereby the speaker assembly is substantially camouflaged or not visible.
US08411888B2 Hearing aid and a method of managing a logging device
A hearing aid (1) and a method of managing data stored in a logging device in a hearing aid is devised. The method involves obtaining sets of data representing parameters such as the sound environment at a predetermined data acquisition rate and storing the data according to one of a plurality of a set of possible parameter sets in a histogram (15) is having room for a limited number of instances of each particular set of parameters. If the limit for a particular histogram bin is reached when an instance is stored in the histogram, the data acquisition rate is adjusted according to a specified scheme and the number of instances of every parameter set is reduced by a fixed factor. Acquired data in the histogram thus reflects the most recent sound environments experienced by the hearing aid user.
US08411885B2 Method for operating a hearing apparatus and hearing apparatus with a frequency separating filter
A method operates a hearing apparatus. The hearing apparatus contains a frequency separating filter characterized by a threshold frequency, which splits an input signal into a low-frequency signal component and a high-frequency signal component. The hearing apparatus further has a first device, which can be used to set the threshold frequency of the frequency separating filter so that artifacts in an output signal of the hearing apparatus are reduced.
US08411881B2 Electret capacitor microphone with one-piece vocal cavity component
An electret capacitor microphone with one-piece vocal cavity component includes: a shell, a vibration element and a circuit board which is used to envelop the shell containing cavity and connect with the shell; the first vocal cavity is formed between the vibration element and the inner surface of the top of the shell; voice holes are connected with the first vocal cavity; wherein, one-piece vocal component that lies between the vibration element and circuit board is installed in the shell. The one-piece vocal cavity component is formed by an annular sidewall and a cavity board formed in one-piece on the annular sidewall. A through-hole is formed on the cavity board and inner concave at lower end of an annular sidewall. The second vocal cavity is formed between the annular sidewall and the cavity board. An external surface of the annular sidewall is coated with an insulating material layer.
US08411878B2 Landscape speaker connector and sound system
This application relates to an outdoor music and sound system. More particularly, this system incorporates unique weatherproof wing nut cable connectors used in connecting a plurality of weatherproof speakers on a single electrical line to a remote sound system that may be employed in a variety of landscape areas. By using 8 ohm, at 20 to 50 watt resistor units, or a 1.5 to 2 ohm receiver amplifier, to control the output, a single cable can be used to connect to a plurality of speakers. Two or more cables may be connected to the electronics unit. This inexpensive system can easily be sold at discount hardware stores in conjunction with the wide variety of inexpensive outdoor lighting systems now available.
US08411875B2 Speaker control via audio connection
Members of a plurality of loud speakers receive control commands or signals via audio communication lines. The control commands, or, signals are responded to by those speakers which have been previously addressed.
US08411873B2 Noise control device
A noise control device eliminates a possibility that a noise arriving at a control point is increased as compared to a case where noise control is not performed and has a reduced circuit scale. The device includes a controlling noise detector for detecting a given noise to output a controlling noise signal, a controlling filter section for signal-processing the controlling noise signal, by using a preset fixed filter coefficient, to output a control signal, and a control speaker for reducing the given noise, by emitting toward the control point a control sound based on the control signal. The device also includes a noise determination section for determining whether the given noise is a noise corresponding to the fixed filter coefficient, and an output control section for stopping output of the control signal from the controlling filter section when the given noise does not correspond.
US08411864B2 Method of modifying secrets included in a cryptographic module, notably in an unprotected environment
A method of modifying a set of secrets in a cryptographic module, to ensure that the modifying is either successful or invalid. The module includes readable version numbers for each secret and for the set of secrets. If the version number of the set of secrets is equal to a version number requiring the loading of a set of new secrets, the version number of the set of secrets of the cryptographic module is set to a distinctive number indicating that the cryptographic module is being reloaded. Next, for each secret, if the version number of the secret is different from the version number of the corresponding new secret to be loaded, the new secret and its version number are loaded. Next the version number of the set of secrets of the cryptographic module is set to the version number of the set of new secrets.
US08411858B2 Dynamic foreign agent-home agent security association allocation for IP mobility systems
The present invention utilizes the AAA infrastructure to dynamically allocate the various parameters needed to establish the security association between the Foreign Agent and the Home Agent. The present invention uses the AAA server as a central entity to dynamically generate and distribute the chosen security association parameters needed to support the Foreign Agent and Home Agent security association based on a request from the Foreign Agent. The AAA server can also dynamically assigns a unique SPI value to the Foreign Agent and Home Agent pairs. The various parameters that can be allocated in the present invention include a FA-HA shared secret key or a public/private key pair, an authentication algorithm and mode, a FA-HA secret key lifetime, and security parameter index or security index values. The present invention also can assist in making sure that the Foreign Agent and the Home Agent stay synchronized with respect to their security association.
US08411857B2 Partial multiple encryption
A partial multiple encryption device consistent with certain embodiments has an input adapted to receive a unencrypted video signal. An encryption arrangement produces a partially multiple encrypted video signal from the unencrypted video signal. An output is adapted to provide the partially multiple encrypted video signal. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
US08411856B2 Image forming apparatus, computer readable medium and medium
The image forming apparatus includes: a random number information generation part that generates random number information; a first encryption part that encrypts the random number information generated by the random number information generation part with using a first encryption key; a second encryption key generation part that newly generates a second encryption key from the random number information generated by the random number information generation part; a second encryption part that encrypts specific information for identifying the apparatus with using the second encryption key generated by the second encryption key generation part; a code data creation part that creates code data based on encrypted random number information encrypted by the first encryption part and encrypted specific information encrypted by the second encryption part; and an image forming part that forms a code image based on the code data created by the code data creation part on a recording medium.
US08411854B2 Method and apparatus for authenticating a user
A method of generating a private key for use in an authentication protocol comprises, at a client: receiving a user specific identifier; converting the identifier through a one-way function to a string of a pre-determined length; and mapping said string to a permutation πpriv of a pre-determined order, said permutation being operable with a first graph G1 to generate a second graph G2=πpriv(G1).
US08411845B2 Handheld electronic device having improved phone call log, and associated method
An improved handheld electronic device and an associated method provide an improved call list that presents information relating to logged phone calls in a collapsed manner. A single entry is displayed on the call list to represent a call log of phone calls from the same phone number.
US08411830B2 System, method and computer program product for extracting user profiles and habits based on speech recognition and calling history for telephone system advertising
A system, method and computer program product for providing targeted messages to a person using telephony services by generating user profile information from telephony data and using the user profile information to retrieve targeted messages.
US08411826B2 Voicemail notification server load balancing
A device receives, from a management server, an optimal number of threads, generates a dynamic thread based on the optimal number of threads, and retrieves, from a message store, a message based on the dynamic thread and when the message store is not empty. The device receives a binding from a voicemail server associated with a voicemail user, generates a notification based on the retrieved message and based on the binding, and provides the notification to a user device associated with the voicemail user.
US08411821B1 3D X-ray reflection microscopy imaging system
The present disclosure presents, in various aspects and embodiments, a 3D X-ray reflection microscopy imaging technique. Some aspects are directed to various embodiments of an apparatus for use in such a technique, such as an X-ray reflection microscopy imaging system. Other aspects are directed to various embodiments of a method for use in such a technique, like a method for generating an X-ray image that has a grayscale response proportional to range. Some, though not all, aspects of the technique are computer-implemented, and so include encoded program storage media, programmed computing apparatuses, and computer-implemented methods.
US08411806B1 Method and apparatus for receiving signals in a MIMO system with multiple channel encoders
In a method for decoding plurality of information streams corresponding to a plurality of layers, where the plurality of information streams have been transmitted via a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) communication channel, a plurality of received signals are processed to decode information corresponding to a first layer. A plurality of modified received signals are generated using the decoded information corresponding to the first layer and the plurality of received signals. Bit metric values are generated for a second layer using MIMO maximum likelihood (ML) demodulation and using the plurality of modified received signals and channel and modulation information for interfering signals. Information corresponding to the second layer is decoded using the generated bit metric values.
US08411792B2 Digital predistorter for variable supply amplifier
An adaptive predistorter for applying a predistortion gain to an input signal to be amplified by a power amplifier having a variable supply voltage, the predistorter including: a predistortion gain block adapted to apply a complex gain to a complex input signal; a first table implemented in a first memory and including a 2-dimensional array of cells storing complex gain values, the first table adapted to output the complex gain values based on an amplitude of the input signal and the value of the variable supply voltage of the power amplifier; and a second table implemented in a second memory and including a 2-dimensional array of cells storing gain update values for updating the complex gain values of the first table, the gain update values being generated based on an output of the power amplifier.
US08411787B2 Space-time block coding systems and methods
Althrough orthonormal space-time coding matrices provide for optimal communication system performance in that associated correlation matrices include no non-zero off-diagonal elements, unity code rate orthonormal coding matrices are difficult to identify for arbitrary communication network equipment. According to embodiments of the present invention, non-orthonormal space-time coding matrices, for which associated correlation matrices include non-zero off-diagonal elements, are used to encode data symbols. The non-orthonormal space-time coding matrices are more easily determined, and undesirable effects of the non-zero off-diagonal components are reduced by selecting a coding matrix from among a number of such matrices. For example, a particular space-time coding matrix may be selected from a number of generated space-time coding matrices based on a number of non-zero off-diagonal elements or a power of a trace of the associated correlation matrices.
US08411784B2 Multi-configuration adaptive layered steered space-time coded system and method
The multi-configuration adaptive layered steered space-time coded (LSSTC) wireless transmission system utilizes Layered Steered Space-Time Codes (LSSTC), a recently proposed multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system that combines the benefits of the vertical Bell Labs space-time (V-BLAST) scheme, space-time block codes (STBC) and beamforming. A multi-configuration transmission scheme based on LSSTC and V-BLAST systems uses threshold-based decision making to change the modulation type and the MIMO transmission scheme in order to optimize error performance.
US08411779B2 Communication system, transmitter, receiver and multiple access method
In a communications system including a transmitter for transmitting signals over a transmission channel and a receiver for receiving the signals, the transmitter includes: a filter for filtering a modulated signal to modify amplitude and phase characteristics of the modulated signal; and a first processor for performing interleaving process and/or scrambling process for the filtered signal. On the other hand, the receiver includes: a second processor for performing deinterleaving process and/or descrambling process for a received signal; and an inverse filter for filtering a signal supplied from the second processor.
US08411777B2 Complex vector quantization codebook for use in downlink multi-user MIMO mobile broadcast systems
A wireless communications device having a complex vector quantization codebook for use in a downlink multi-user MIMO (multiple-input-multiple-output) mobile broadcast system with feedback enables the interference between data simultaneously sent by the base station to a plurality of mobile terminals to be reliably minimized. The codebook contains many subsets of code vectors that are substantially mutually (i.e., pairwise) orthogonal, or almost orthogonal, to each other. With use of such a codebook, a base station can transmit simultaneously to subsets of mobile terminals associated with these subsets of code vectors with minimal interference therebetween.
US08411775B2 Iterative demapper
Demodulation and/or demapping of a signal (e.g., based on a constellation whose points have a corresponding mapping with associated labels) is performed such that each dimension is processed separately without accounting for influences from the other dimension. For example, the demapping process operates on each respective dimension separately and independently. In some instances, the processing operates iteratively, in that, information identified from processing one of the dimensions is employed in directing the processing in another of the dimensions. Such operation may be performed iteratively by updating/modified information associated with one or more of the dimensions as well. Moreover, decoding may operate in accordance with iterative demapping (e.g., error correction code (ECC) and/or forward error correction (FEC) code by which information bits are encoded) to make estimates of bits within a signal sequence, and those estimates may be used in a subsequent iteration of demapping.
US08411773B2 Simplified equalization scheme for distributed resource allocation in multi-carrier systems
In multi-carrier systems, distributed resource allocation of the resources of multiple user equipments (UEs) can result in better frequency diversity gain but can also induce Inter-Carrier Interference (ICI) between UEs. This ICI can become quite serious in a high mobility environment. Based on a novel radio channel model for ICI cancellation in multi-carrier systems and an iterative channel estimation scheme for ICI cancellation in multi-carrier systems, the present invention provides a simplified equalization scheme in the frequency domain to determine and remove ICI of both a targeting UE as well as other UEs.
US08411771B2 Predictive clipping in multi-carrier wireless communication systems
A method and apparatus for selectively clipping waveforms prior to transmission in a multi-carrier wireless communication system is provided. The design includes estimating peak values of the composite multi-carrier signal, determining a local threshold set including one local threshold for each carrier based on a configurable total threshold representing a maximum aggregate signal level for a sum of all signals to be transmitted over the multiple carriers, and clipping one signal to be transmitted over one carrier when the signal exceeds a corresponding local threshold and a sum of all signals to be transmitted over multiple carriers exceed the total threshold. Alternately, the design may include estimating peak signal values for signals to be transmitted in the multi-carrier system, and selectively clipping any signal wherein at least one peak signal value exceeds a local threshold and peak signal values for a sum of all signals to be transmitted exceed a global threshold.
US08411770B2 Base station device, mobile terminal device, wireless communication system, and wireless communication method
A wireless transmission device converts signals having been subjected to a first modulation into frequency domain signals, and allocates the frequency domain signals converted to subcarriers for transmission. The wireless transmission device includes: a controller that selects, based on channel qualities of the subcarriers to which the frequency domain signals are allocated, a value satisfying a predetermined communication quality as control information indicative of the number of frequency domain signals included in each of segments into which the frequency domain signals are segmentalized; and an allocating unit that segmentalizes the frequency domain signals into segments, each of the segments including the same number of frequency domain signals as the value selected as the control information by the controller, and allocates the frequency domain signals included in each of the segments to sequential subcarriers.
US08411769B2 Cancellation of burst noise in a communication system with application to S-CDMA
A communication system performs burst noise cancellation. A transmitter produces and transmits a spread signal that comprises at least one known-value symbol spread by a plurality of non data-carrying orthogonal codes and data symbols spread by at least one data-carrying orthogonal code. The transmitter transmits the spread signal across a communication link that introduces burst noise. A burst noise detector determines burst noise affected chips of the orthogonal codes. A weight computation functional block calculates a plurality of complex-valued combining weights based upon the burst noise affected chips. A vector de-spreader and a linear combiner operate in combination to use the plurality of non data-carrying orthogonal codes, the at least one data-carrying orthogonal code, and the plurality of complex-valued combining weights to de-spread the received spread signal to produce the data symbols with the burst noise substantially removed.
US08411768B2 Communication system, transmission apparatus, and receiving apparatus
A transmission apparatus for performing an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) transmission generates an OFDM symbol in which a modulation parameter used at a time of transmitting data is arranged in a subcarrier of a direct current component and transmits a transmission frame including the generated OFDM symbol. A receiving apparatus calculates an average value in an effective symbol period within the OFDM symbol included in the transmission frame received, extracts the modulation parameter arranged in the subcarrier of the direct current component based on the calculated average value, and performs OFDM demodulation processing using the extracted modulation parameter.
US08411766B2 System and method for utilizing spectral resources in wireless communications
A wireless communication system comprises a wavelet analyzer and a wavelet signal generator. The wavelet analyzer is operable to analyze wireless signals within a frequency and time map of a communications spectrum, whereby the wavelet analyzer is adapted to determine one or more available cells within the frequency and time map. The wavelet signal generator is operable to generate one or more wavelet signals for transmission within the determined one or more available cells of the frequency and time map based on the analyzed wireless signals within the frequency and time map.
US08411746B2 Multiview video coding over MPEG-2 systems
A multiplexer may produce an MPEG-2 (Motion Picture Experts Group) System standard bitstream comprising views with nonconsecutive view order indexes. In one example, an apparatus includes a video encoder that encodes views of a scene, and a multiplexer that constructs a data structure for signaling that a corresponding MPEG-2 (Motion Picture Experts Group) System standard bitstream includes a first view of the views of the scene associated with a first view order index and a second view of the plurality of views of the scene associated with a second view order index. The first view order index and the second view order index are non-consecutive. The apparatus may further include an output interface that outputs the data structure.
US08411734B2 Scalable multi-thread video decoding
Decoding tasks are identified for decoding encoded video. Decoding tasks may include entropy decoding tasks, motion compensation tasks, inverse frequency transform tasks, inverse quantization tasks, intra decoding tasks, loop filtering tasks, or other tasks. Task dependencies are identified for the video decoding tasks. For example, one or more decoding tasks may depend on prior completion of entropy decoding tasks. The decoding tasks are prioritized based at least in part on the task dependencies. For example, a higher priority may be assigned to tasks that must be completed before other tasks that depend on them can begin. Prioritized decoding tasks are selected to be performed by hardware threads. For example, a first hardware thread may perform a first decoding task that does not depend on any uncompleted tasks while a second hardware thread performs a second decoding task that does not depend on any uncompleted tasks.
US08411715B2 Semiconductor laser device
The invention relates to a semiconductor laser device comprising a laser bar (2), a flexible conductor support (10), a supporting body (3) of a metal or a metal alloy and a heat sink (4), which is arranged between the supporting body (3) and the laser bar (2), the laser bar (2) being electrically contacted by the flexible conductor support (10) and the supporting body (3) having a thickness of at least 2 mm. The invention further relates to a method for producing the above-described semiconductor laser device, wherein a synchronous soldering process is used to solder the laser bar (2) to the heat sink (4) by means of a hard solder layer (30) and the heat sink (4) to the supporting body (3) by means of a further hard solder layer (31).
US08411713B2 Process and system for laser crystallization processing of film regions on a substrate to minimize edge areas, and structure of such film regions
A process and system for processing a thin film sample are provided. In particular, a beam generator can be controlled to emit at least one beam pulse. The beam pulse is then masked to produce at least one masked beam pulse, which is used to irradiate at least one portion of the thin film sample. With the at least one masked beam pulse, the portion of the film sample is irradiated with sufficient intensity for such portion to later crystallize. This portion of the film sample is allowed to crystallize so as to be composed of a first area and a second area. Upon the crystallization thereof, the first area includes a first set of grains, and the second area includes a second set of grains whose at least one characteristic is different from at least one characteristic of the second set of grains. The first area surrounds the second area, and is configured to allow an active region of a thin-film transistor (“TFT”) to be provided at a distance therefrom.
US08411703B1 Method and apparatus for a reduced lane-lane skew, low-latency transmission system
A method and apparatus for a multiple lane transmission system that provides a fixed, low-latency mode of operation with reduced lane-lane skew while process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) variation, as well as other sources of variation, occur over time. Multiplexing techniques are utilized within each transmission lane to allow programmably adaptive use of phase alignment circuitry for various modes of operation. As a result, power consumption and semiconductor die area are reduced because multiple copies of phase alignment circuitry within each transmission lane are not required. Also, injection of additional jitter on the serial outputs due to continuous operation of phase alignment circuitry is prevented. Rather, multiplexers within the phase alignment circuitry selectively adapt the timing architecture to that required by the selected mode of operation.
US08411702B2 Virtual memory protocol segmentation offloading
Methods and systems for a more efficient transmission of network traffic are provided. According to one embodiment, a method is provided for performing transport layer protocol segmentation offloading. Multiple buffer descriptors are stored in a system memory of a network device. The buffer descriptors contain information indicative of a starting address of a payload buffer stored in a user memory space of the system memory. The payload buffers contain payload data originated by a user process running on a host processor of the network device. The payload data is retrieved from the payload buffers on behalf of a network processor of the network device without copying the payload data from the user memory space to a kernel memory space of the system memory by performing direct virtual memory addressing of the user memory space. Finally, the payload data is segmented across one or more transport layer protocol packets.
US08411693B2 Method for controlling electric power of electric power controller, LRWPAN-ethernet bridge and sensor node
The network configuration technology for controlling an electric power sensor node is disclosed. The method for controlling electric power includes transmitting an an Ethernet packet type command message to at least one electric power sensor node through an LRWPAN-Ethernet bridge in accordance with profile information related to an electric power control, the profile information being set by a user; receiving LR-WPAN packet type response messages transmitted from the at least one electric power sensor node in response to the Ethernet package type command message as Ethernet packet type response messages through the LRWPAN-Ethernet bridge; and providing a control result of an electric power equipment corresponding to the at least one electric power sensor node to the user based on the Ethernet packet type response messages.
US08411692B2 Multi-hop heterogeneous wireless device feature sharing
Available features of each of a group of wireless devices accessible over one of a group of different wireless communication protocol interfaces of a first wireless bridging computing device are registered for sharing. A request for use of an available feature of a first wireless device over a first wireless communication protocol interface is received from a second wireless device over a second wireless communication protocol interface. In response to the request, use of the requested available feature of the first wireless device by the second wireless device is facilitated over the first wireless communication protocol interface and the second wireless communication protocol interface. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
US08411690B2 Preventing data traffic connectivity between endpoints of a network segment
Various systems and method of preventing data traffic connectivity between endpoints of a network segment are disclosed. One method involves receiving a segment protocol message from a first segment port within a network segment, which includes a plurality of network devices. In response to receipt of the segment protocol message, which can indicate whether connectivity is present between the segment endpoints via the network segment, a second segment port can be operated in a blocked state. Operating the second segment port in the blocked state prevents data plane connectivity via the network segment.
US08411689B2 Fault-tolerant, frame-based communication system
A packet-switched, fault-tolerant, vehicle communication internetwork (100, 400, 500) comprising port-based VLANs. Two or more VLANs are embodied where a source node (110, 410, 510,610) comprises two or more network interface circuits (130,140, 415,425, 515,525, 630,640), and where looping is precluded via specific VLAN tagging and switch ports (131-134, 200, 300, 420, 430, 435, 445, 455, 465, 535, 540, 545, 560, 575, 585, associated with at least one specific VLAN. A destination node (120, 440, 450, 460, 570, 580, 590, 620) may feedback packets to the source node via a general VLAN tag along pathways associated with the two or more specific outgoing VLAN tags.
US08411687B1 Method and apparatus for managing traffic through a network switch
A network device including a port, a packet classifier, and a processor. The port is configured to communicate with a network. The packet classifier is configured to select a plurality of packets according to a packet classification rule. The packet classification rule describes a packet characteristic. The processor is configured to execute a program. The program is configured to perform comparisons between (i) a portion of each of the selected packets and (ii) one or more predetermined patterns. One of the predetermined patterns is added to the program without having to reboot the network device.
US08411682B2 Communication apparatus having a plurality of network interfaces, method of communication by the communication apparatus, and storage medium
A communication apparatus which is capable of performing multicasting or broadcasting using a user-desired network interface. An MFP implementing the communication apparatus includes a plurality of network interfaces and performs multicasting or broadcasting via at least one of the network interfaces. A controller unit provides an application programming interface to an application that operates on the MFP. An operator of the MFP operates an operation unit to set a transmission condition for transmitting a multicast packet and a broadcast packet via a predetermined network interface. When a plurality of active network interfaces are detected, one of the plurality of detected active network interfaces which satisfies the set transmission condition is selected and multicasting or broadcasting is performed via the selected network interface.
US08411673B2 Method, device, and system for transferring service control signalling path
A method, device, and system for transferring a Service Control Signalling Path are provided. The method for transferring a Service Control Signalling Path includes: establishing a connection with an opposite end by a User Equipment (UE), where the UE uses a Circuit Switched (CS) bearer in a CS network and a Service Control Signalling Path in a first Packet Switched (PS) network; sending a transfer request via a second PS network, to instruct a network side to transfer the Service Control Signalling Path according to the transfer request. Thus, the UE can replace a current Gm reference point with a Gm reference point of a new and available PS network when the PS network where the current Gm reference point is located is unavailable, so as to ensure smooth data transmission.
US08411666B1 Location-based geographical routing
Methods are disclosed for routing data, such as a packet, from a source router to a destination router based on geographical information associated with a destination mobile device. A table is accessed to determine whether there is a destination router located in the list of routers that is located within the same geographical area as the destination mobile device. If there is a destination router that meets this criteria, the data is sent to the destination router. But if there is not a destination router that meets this criteria, the data is routed based on network topology.
US08411641B2 Methods for controlling access domain switching, network nodes, user terminal and computer program product therefor
A technique for controlling an access domain selection is described. The technique is applicable to user terminals that are capable of switching from a first network access domain to a second network access domain while services are provided to the user terminals. According to a network aspect of this technique, a network node receives a request message from a user terminal. In response to this request message, the network node sends a rule set including one or more access domain switching rules to the user terminal. These access domain switching rules may be dynamically selected by the network node to control the access domain switching behavior of the user terminal.
US08411638B2 Methods and systems for background scanning in OFDMA mobile stations
Certain embodiments provide techniques for background scanning in a wireless communication device receiving signals from multiple base stations using a background scanning processor separate from a receive processor. The techniques generally include buffering raw signal data from multiple base stations, forwarding the raw signal data to a receive baseband processor for decoding data from a first one of the base stations that is currently designated as a serving base station with an active connection to the wireless communications device, forwarding the raw signal data to a background scanning processor, separate from the receive baseband processor, and generating channel characteristics corresponding to the multiple base stations with the background scanning processor without interrupting the exchange of data with the first base station designated as the serving base station.
US08411634B2 User apparatus, base station apparatus, and method in mobile communication system
A user apparatus transmits an uplink control signal to a base station apparatus using a single carrier scheme. The user apparatus includes: a unit configured to receive a downlink control signal and a downlink data signal; a unit configured to prepare acknowledgement information indicating positive acknowledgement or negative acknowledgement for the downlink data signal; a unit configured to prepare the uplink control signal including the acknowledgement information; a unit configured to transmit the uplink control signal using different resources which are different from resources that can be used for an uplink data signal; and a storage unit configured to store predetermined correspondence relationship which uniquely associates resources of the downlink control signal or the downlink data signal with resources used for the uplink control signal.
US08411628B2 Reducing keep-alive messages in connection with element traversal by relay mechanism
A network element, method and computer program product enable to reduce the need to send keep-alive messages when elements have to be traversed. Specifically, a network element comprises a port allocation request unit configured to request from a server over the transmission control protocol the allocation of a user datagram protocol port having a destination determined to take care of traffic for the network element. The network element further comprises a registration unit configured to create a message for requesting internet protocol registration and to send the message over the transmission control protocol.
US08411624B2 Method of dynamic resource allocations in wireless systems
A method of dynamic resource allocations in wireless network is disclosed. The method provides that a base station in the network allocates resources to users independently of other base stations and without resource planning. Resource allocations are done based at least in part on a local optimization objective and a channel quality indicator from one or more users, and result in efficient resource reuse.
US08411622B2 Multi-channel inter base-station communication
The invention relates to systems and methods for spectrum sharing and communication among several wireless communication networks with overlapping service areas (or cells); especially to Wireless Regional Area Networks (WRANs). Particular embodiments of the invention disclose using a conference channel to communicate between base stations. Other embodiments use slotted coexistence windows within frames to transmit and receive information, including for reserving transmission times within subsequent frames.
US08411619B2 Method of packet reordering and packet retransmission
A packet reordering method and a packet transmission method to implement reliable data communication are disclosed. The method of transmitting packets at a serving base station in case of a mobile station performing handover include, receiving a series of packets from an upper layer entity, and transmitting the series of packets one after the other to a target base station, wherein a packet of the series of packets includes an information field which represents whether the packet is the last transmitted packet. When the mobile station performs the I-RAT handover, the target serving station pre-reorders PDU packets, and transmits the reordered PDU packets to the mobile station, such that the mobile station can quickly transmit data without reordering the packets.
US08411617B2 Method for transmitting channel information in wireless communication system
A method for transmitting uplink channel information in a wireless communication system is provided. The method comprises transmitting an adaptive modulation and coding (AMC) band bitmap indicating at least one AMC band selected from a plurality of AMC bands with a first transmission period through a plurality of uplink control channels and transmitting a channel quality indicator (CQI) based on transmission of the AMC band bitmap with a second transmission period through any one of the plurality of uplink control channels.
US08411616B2 Pre-scan for wireless channel selection
A system and method for pre-scanning for a wireless channel selection is provided. The methodology is executed by a first fixed location wireless device to improve initial channel selection in a wireless network where a plurality of fixed location wireless devices is contemporaneously initialized. On a predetermined channel, there is a transmission of at least one message including an identifier of the first device. On the predetermined channel, there is a transmission of at least one message indicative of readiness to transition to a subsequent processing step. The methodology also commences scanning for channel selection purposes.
US08411615B2 Power controlled adaptive modulation and coding scheme in satellite communications system
A power controlled adaptive modulation and coding (AMC) scheme in a satellite communications system includes: calculating, by a user terminal, a received signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) through a packet received from a base station; removing a power control level applied to a packet received before the received packet from the calculated received SNR, and deciding the value obtained by decreasing the calculated received SNR by the power control level; deciding an AMC mode based on the decided received SNR; determining whether power control is required, and deciding a required power control magnitude depending on a channel state positioned in the AMC mode range; transmitting the decided AMC mode and the decided power control information to the base station through channel quality indicator (CQI) feedback; and applying the AMC mode based on information received, and increasing a power by a power control magnitude decided from the received information.
US08411605B2 Method and apparatus for discontinuously receiving packet in a mobile communication system
A method for receiving a packet by a terminal in a mobile communication system including a base station providing a packet, and a terminal that discontinuously receives a packet from the base station in Discontinuous Reception (DRX) cycles each having an active period and a sleep period. The packet reception method includes receiving, from the base station, configuration information for a DRX service, including a DRX cycle length; setting, as a starting point of the DRX cycle, a point at which a first packet is received from the base station; receiving a packet from the base station for an active period at the beginning of the starting point; and transitioning to a sleep period and waiting for a next active period.
US08411597B2 Method, system and apparatus for setting up multimedia call
A method includes receiving a multimedia request message; setting up a multimedia call path to a CS UE according to the multimedia request message; negotiating a media coding mode with the CS UE and negotiating the media coding mode with a peer UE according to the multimedia call path; and setting up a multimedia call between the CS UE and the peer UE after determining the coding mode of the CS UE and the peer UE. In the embodiments of the present invention, the MSC negotiates the coding mode of the CS UE and the peer UE (such as an IMS UE), and sets up a multimedia call between the CS UE and the peer UE, thus overcoming the inability of setting up a multimedia call between the CS UE and the peer UE in the prior art.
US08411595B2 System and method for providing reservationless conferencing
A video teleconferencing system and method for providing reservationless conferencing is disclosed. The method involves creating a conference profile identifying selected connection parameters; allocating a dial-in number; notifying participants of the dial-in number; detecting a call from a requesting participant; determining if sufficient resources for the participant are available; and connecting the requesting participant into the reservationless conference. Additionally, the video teleconferencing method allows the conference time to be automatically extended. This is done using timers and reallocating available resources when the original end of conference time arrives. The method also enables the conference to automatically terminate after all conference participants leave the conference.
US08411586B2 Display port compatible interface communications
A computer can control a target device using a packet format described herein. In one example, an extension packet controls the target device in at least one of power consumption, image rendering, and register updating.
US08411581B2 Method and system for medium access control (MAC) layer specialization for voice and multimedia data streams
Aspects of a method and system for medium access control (MAC) layer specialization for voice and multimedia data streams are presented. Aspects of the method include determining a number of attempts for transmitting one or more medium access control (MAC) frames. Aspects of the system may include a processor that enables determination of a number of attempts for transmitting one or more MAC frames. A maximum number for such attempts may be determined based on one or more priority levels associated with different portions of multimedia information being communicated via a wireless medium and contained within the one or more MAC frames.
US08411579B2 Communication system hierarchical testing systems and methods—entity dependent automatic selection of tests
Hierarchical testing systems and methods for testing communication systems are disclosed. Testing functions which test entities such as equipment or services of a communication system are classified into testing function groups. The testing function groups have an order which is based on an order of operational dependencies in the communication system. Testing functions to be performed for a particular entity to be tested are selected from testing functions for testing the entity itself and testing functions for testing other entities that have an operational dependency with the entity to be tested. Related data structures and user interfaces are also disclosed.
US08411573B2 Systems and methods for hybrid rate-limiting schemes based on protocol data unit characteristics
A networked computing system that utilizes a hybrid rate-limiting scheme to jointly affect both PDU payload throughput and total PDU throughput. The networked computing system includes one or more service provider devices (SPDs), one or more subscriber computing devices (SCDs), and a data communications network facilitating data communications between a SPD and a SCD. The SPD can apply the hybrid rate-limiting scheme to data communications provided to the SCD, based on both protocol data unit (PDU) header and payload characteristics. The hybrid rate-limiting scheme can simultaneously facilitate rate-limiting PDU payload throughput and rate-limiting total PDU throughput.
US08411571B2 Video and data network load balancing with video drop
A network access unit includes: a source data receiver module adapted to receive multiple first source data representing respective video content and second source data representing broadband data content; a network control module adapted to receive link condition data and configuration data, calculate priority data based on the link condition data and the configuration data, and use the priority data to generate a master schedule including program data indicating that some but not all of the multiple first source data are to be transmitted; a pre-coder module adapted to pre-code respective first source data using respective pre-coding schemes to generate respective sets of representation data, if the program data is determined to indicate that the respective first source data is to be transmitted; and an ACM module adapted to associate, for each first source data indicated for transmission, the respective sets of representation data with respective coding and modulation schemes.
US08411563B2 Apparatus and method for multicast and broadcast service in broadband wireless access system
Disclosed is an apparatus and method for an MBS service in a BWA system. An apparatus of a base station includes a time controller, a CAC processor, and a buffer controller. The time controller manages a broadcast start time and a broadcast end time and generates a broadcast start message at a predetermined time before the actual broadcast start time. Upon receipt of the generated broadcast start message from the time controller, the CAC processor calculates a capacity decrease due to broadcast service and subtracts the capacity decrease from the current available capacity to update the available capacity. Upon receipt of the generated broadcast start message from the time controller, the buffer controller controls the buffer occupation of unicast traffic in order to provide the buffer space required for a broadcast service.
US08411561B2 Method and nodes for congestion notification
A method of performing congestion notification for a data transmission (10) from a sender (14) to a receiver (11) is described. Furthermore, nodes for such a transmission as well as methods of controlling such nodes are described. The data transmission involves a first node (12) and a second node (13) between said sender and receiver. The data packets pass from said second node to said first node towards said receiver. The method comprises: —sending (S82) a message (15) from said first node to said second node, said message relating to a decision on whether to notify said receiver of a congestion condition in said data transmission, —sending (S83) an explicit congestion notification (16) from said second node to said receiver if it is decided to notify said receiver of said congestion condition.
US08411551B2 Guide-layer separated optical recording medium, optical recording medium drive apparatus, and recording layer access method
A guide-layer separated optical recording medium includes a guide layer with a guide track formed therein and a plurality of recording layers, these layers being separately deposited from each other. A layer position information region for indicating position information of each of the recording layers, is formed on the guide track within a different range of the guide layer for each of the recording layers. Each of the recording layers includes a preformat region having a predetermined signal written on a record track along the guide track, and the preformat region on each of the recording layers is provided in a region corresponding to the layer position information region. An optical recording medium drive apparatus and a recording layer access method for the guide-layer separated optical recording medium are also provided. The apparatus and method implement: determining whether a reproduced signal has been obtained, based on the detection level of a reflected beam from the preformat region by a read/write optical system; acquiring position information of one of the plurality of recording layers based on the detection level of a reflected beam from a layer position information region by a servo optical system; and causing a second laser beam to access a desired one of the plurality of recording layers in accordance with the determination result of the reproduced signal and the position information.
US08411550B2 Seek and scan probe (SSP) cantilever stop structures
MEMS storage devices and associated systems and structures are generally described. In one example, a micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) storage device includes a substrate, a lateral actuation structure coupled with the substrate, a micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) probe coupled with the lateral actuation structure, the MEMS probe having a first end, a second end having a probe tip, and a longitudinal axis extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the second end can be actuated in a direction substantially normal to a surface of the substrate, and one or more stop beam structures coupled with the lateral actuation structure to restrict motion of the MEMS probe in the direction substantially normal to the surface of the substrate.
US08411547B2 Information recording medium, information supply system, and optical information device
An information recording medium includes a first information recording layer and a second information recording layer. The first information recording layer is formed at a laser beam entrance surface, and is configured so that information can be recorded thereupon and/or reproduced therefrom using a first objective lens having a numerical aperture NA1 and laser beam of a wavelength λ1. The second information recording layer is formed so as to have a distance to the laser beam entrance surface of 0.05 mm to 1.2 mm and is configured so that information can be recorded thereupon and/or reproduced therefrom using a second objective lens having a numerical aperture NA2 and laser beam of a wavelength λ2. When a diffraction limit δ2, determined by numerical aperture NA2 and wavelength λ2, is taken as δ2=0.61×λ2/NA2, a track pitch Tp1 of a track formed on the first information recording layer is Tp1<δ2.
US08411539B2 Optical disc recording device
An optical disc recording device, wherein, during an OPC process addressing a write-once optical disc provided with only one or two recording layers, a recording power value of an optical pickup is changed within a range from (100−A) % of a reference recording power value to (100+B) % of the reference recording power value, and wherein, during an OPC process addressing a write-once optical disc provided with three or more recording layers of the same type as the aforementioned write-once optical disc, the recording power value of the optical pickup is changed within a range from (100−C) % of a reference recording power value to (100+D) % of the reference recording power value, D being set to be less than B.
US08411526B2 Storage device, electronic device, and storage device control method
A storage device includes a volatile memory, an auxiliary power source, a nonvolatile memory, a write module, and an inhibition module. The volatile memory stores user data. The auxiliary power source supplies power to the volatile memory when power from a main power source is cut off. The nonvolatile memory is written with the user data, write incomplete information indicating the user data, and power off information indicating that power from the main power source is cut off. While supplied with power from the auxiliary power source when power from the main power source is cut off, the write module writes the write incomplete information, the user data, and the power off information to the nonvolatile memory. The inhibition module inhibits reading of the user data if the power off information is not written in the nonvolatile memory when the volatile memory is supplied with power.
US08411512B2 Semiconductor memory apparatus
A semiconductor memory apparatus includes: a memory cell array including a plurality of memory cells; a bit line sense amplifier (BLSA) coupled to the memory cells in the memory cell array through a bit line; a plurality of local input/output lines coupled to the BLSA; and a switching unit coupled to the local input/output lines and configured to select a part of the local input/output lines.
US08411493B2 Selection device for a spin-torque transfer magnetic random access memory
A spin-torque transfer magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) that includes a magnetic bit coupled between a first conductor line and a selection device. The selection device includes at least two transistors. The selection device is operative to (a) select the magnetic bit for a spin-torque transfer (STT) write operation when the at least two transistors are in a first state and (b) select the magnetic bit for a read operation when the at least two transistors are in a second state. The selection device may be implemented in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology, and the transistors may include body ties. The selection device may also be radiation hardened.
US08411492B2 Memory base cell and memory bank
A memory base cell stores a bit of information implemented from a regular and compact structure made up of multiple identical and replicated base elements, on the “sea of gates” model, in which the base element of the structure is a cell able to be configured with a minimum width in relation to the particular technology used. Such a cell includes a bistable element with an input node operatively connected to a writing data line of the memory base cell, and an output node operatively connected to a reading data line of the memory base cell. The bistable element also has a first inverter and a second inverter arranged in a feedback configuration with respect to one another between the input node and the output node of the bistable element.
US08411491B1 Memory array with distributed clear transistors and variable memory element power supply
Memory elements may be provided that include bi-stable data storage elements based on cross-coupled inverters. A pair of address transistors may be used to implement a differential data writing scheme for the memory elements. One of the address transistors may be coupled between a first data line and a first data storage node in each memory element and another of the address transistors may be coupled between a second data line and a second data storage node. A read circuit may be coupled to the second data storage node. Clear transistors may be interspersed through the array. The clear transistors may help pull the data lines to desired voltages during clear operations. An adjustable power supply may supply a weakened power supply voltage to a pull-up clear transistor and to the first and second inverters during clear operations.
US08411486B2 Nonvolatile memory device and method of manufacturing the same
According to one embodiment, there is provided a method of manufacturing a nonvolatile memory device. In this method, a first voltage may be applied to a variable resistive element having a resistance value which is electrically rewritable in a high resistance and in a low resistance. In this method, a second voltage may be applied to the variable resistive element in a case where the resistance value of the variable resistive element to which the first voltage has been applied is greater than a resistance value of the low resistance and is not greater than a resistance value of the high resistance. Further, in this method, the applying of the second voltage to the variable resistive element may be repeated until the resistance value of the variable resistive element to which the second voltage has been applied falls within a range of the resistance value of the low resistance.
US08411481B2 Information storage devices using magnetic domain wall movement and methods of manufacturing the same
In an information storage device, a writing magnetic layer is formed on a substrate and has a magnetic domain wall. A connecting magnetic layer is formed on the writing magnetic layer, and an information storing magnetic layer is formed on an upper portion of side surfaces of the connecting magnetic layer. A reader reads information stored in the information storing magnetic layer.
US08411475B1 Power supply converting AC to DC and using changing voltage of AC to force DC into a load
A power supply to convert AC power to DC power with a relatively constant voltage and linear current delivery. The DC power may be positive or negative voltage, or both may be produced. A fluctuating voltage from an AC voltage source (e.g., a transformer) is utilized to charge and substantially discharge a storage device on a cycle by cycle basis. The voltage of the storage device continuously supplements the fluctuating voltage to result in relatively constant voltage. Unlike a typical power supply, (a) the discharge of the storage device forces power into a load, (b) total capacitance may be substantially less than (e.g., 1% or less of) the capacitance of a typical power supply, (c) a shunt capacitor is not required, and (d) the transformer may be continuously utilized throughout the entire cycle (rather than for only a brief portion of each cycle), which may reduce noise.
US08411474B2 System and method for protection of a multilevel converter
A three level neutral point clamped (NPC) converter includes a plurality of phase legs each having at least two inner switching devices, at least two outer switching devices, at least two clamping diodes, and a protection circuit. An inner component failure sensing circuit is employed in the protection circuit to detect a failure condition in any of the inner switching devices or clamping diodes. The protection circuit further includes a gating signal generation circuit configured to generate a turn ON signal for a respective outer switching device that is adjacent to the failed inner switching device or the clamping diode.
US08411468B2 Power converters
We describe a resonant discontinuous power converter including a magnetic energy storage device, and a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) switch having a collector terminal coupled to repetitively switch power from the input on and off to said magnetic energy storage device such that power is transferred from the input to the output. During an off-period of said BJT switch a voltage on said magnetic energy storage device and on said collector terminal of said BJT is at least partially resonant. The power converter includes a voltage clamping circuit to clamp a base voltage on a base terminal of said BJT during a resonant portion of said off-period to limit an excursion of a collector voltage on said collector terminal of said BJT towards or beyond an emitter voltage of said BJT during said resonant portion of said off-period, in particular to inhibit reverse bias of a base emitter junction of the transistor.
US08411466B2 Output controlled DC-to-DC converter
The present invention includes: a plurality of switching elements connected in series and connected between two ends of a DC power supply; a first control circuit to alternately turn on and off the switching elements in response to a constant oscillation frequency signal; a series circuit including a primary winding of a transformer and a capacitor connected together in series, and being connected to a connecting point between the switching elements, and to an end of the DC power supply; a rectifying/smoothing circuit to rectify and smooth a voltage in a secondary winding of the transformer thereby to output a DC voltage; a control switching element connected to two ends of the primary or secondary winding of the transformer; and a second control circuit to control the DC voltage at a predetermined voltage by turning on and off the control switching element.
US08411459B2 Interposer-on-glass package structures
A device includes an interposer including a substrate, and a first through-substrate via (TSV) penetrating through the substrate. A glass substrate is bonded to the interposer through a fusion bonding. The glass substrate includes a second TSV therein and electrically coupled to the first TSV.
US08411456B2 Inverter device having separated module terminal
An inverter device is provided with a semiconductor device, an input terminal, an intermediate terminal, an output terminal and an insulated substrate on which the semiconductor device, the input terminal, the intermediate terminal and the output terminal are mounted. Each of the input terminal, the intermediate terminal and the output terminal is a separated module such that one of the input terminal, the intermediate terminal and the output terminal is spatially independent from the other.
US08411455B2 Mounting structure and motor
A mounting structure 1 in which an electronic component 5 is surface-mounted with solder 4 to a wiring substrate 2 is disclosed. The solder is Sn—Ag—Bi—In-based solder containing 0.1% by weight or more and 5% by weight or less of Bi, and more than 3% by weight and less than 9% by weight of In, with the balance being made up of Sn, Ag and unavoidable impurities. The wiring substrate has a coefficient of linear expansion of 13 ppm/K or less in all directions. Thus, it is possible to realize a mounting structure using lead-free solder and for which the occurrence of cracks in a solder joint portion due to a 1000-cycle thermal shock test from −40 to 150° C. has been suppressed.
US08411452B2 Electronic apparatus
An electronic apparatus comprises a body chassis to which a cabinet is fastened by a screw, the screw is screwed from outside of the cabinet into a boss made of synthetic resin on the body chassis to pass through the boss, the body chassis is provided with a component having a metal surface arranged thereon, and the screw includes a tip opposed to the metal surface of the component. The body chassis is provided with a grounded metal plate arranged thereon, on which a projection intervening between the tip of the screw and the metal surface of the component is formed, the projection includes a through-hole through which the tip of the screw can pass, and the smallest gap length between inner peripheral surface of the through-hole and the screw is set to be smaller than the smallest gap length between the metal surface of the component and the screw.
US08411446B2 Equipment case with slideout racks
A container includes an outer case with an interior volume sized to receive an equipment rack assembly, which in turn includes an inner (i.e., movable or slidable) platform assembly slidably coupled to an outer (i.e., non-movable or fixed) isolation assembly fixed to the case. In one example, the inner platform assembly slidably engages the outer isolation assembly using a joint, such as a dove-tail style joint. In addition, the outer isolation assembly may be supported by one or more shock absorbent devices positioned between the outer isolation assembly and the case. The shock absorbent devices may be positioned, oriented and tuned to achieve a desired amount of shock attenuation and damping.
US08411441B2 Power converter
A casing houses: semiconductor modules constituting a main circuit for power conversion; a capacitor electrically connected to the main circuit; drive circuits that provide the main circuit with a drive signal used in power conversion operation; a control circuit that provides the drive circuit with a control signal used to prompt the drive circuit to provide the drive signal. Within the casing, a cooling chamber including a coolant passage is formed, and a chamber wall of the cooling chamber is formed with a thermally conductive material. At least the semiconductor modules are housed inside the cooling chamber, and at least the capacitor and the control circuit are disposed outside the cooling chamber.
US08411436B2 Heat sink assembly container
A heat sink assembly is packaged by placing the heat sink assembly in a container. The container is secured within a hard disk drive cage.
US08411432B1 System, apparatus and method for tiered shock solution
Embodiments of a tiered damping solution to protect a computer system from shock are disclosed. More specifically, in one embodiment at an external level the computer system may be protected from a shock and vibration by the use of dampeners which may be located on the chassis of the computer system to cover possible contact points. The devices are isolated from remaining shock or vibration by utilizing isolating materials at points where the device mounts to, or otherwise contacts, the chassis. Within the device itself another tier of protection may serve to protect components within a device by isolating the components from the points at which the component mounts to, or otherwise contacts, the device.
US08411421B2 Open-close type compact electronic device
An open-close type compact electronic device includes a first housing and a second housing connected so that they can move relative to each other. The first housing is provided with a first display on its front surface while the second housing is provided with a second display on its front surface. The first and second housings can move relative to each other between a closed state where a front surface of the first display is covered by the second housing while a front surface of the second display is exposed and an open state where the front surfaces of the first and second displays are arranged on generally the same plane to be exposed. The first and second housings include respective contact surfaces, which are pressed against each other in the open state, thereby maintaining a posture of the second housing relative to the first housing.
US08411418B2 Vacuum insulated switchgear
The vacuum insulated switchgear includes: a housing enclosing a control compartment, a switch compartment, and a busbar compartment, each of the three compartments being partitioned by a metallic earthing plate; a first busbar and second busbar extended from an adjacent panel, in the busbar compartment; and a first busbar-connecting bushing and second busbar-connecting bushing making the first and second busbars connectible/disconnectible; a double-breaking three position vacuum switch, two sets of earthing switches, the first busbar-connecting bushing, and the second busbar-connecting bushing being integrally molded to form a switch provided on an electrical phase-by phase basis independently, wherein the switches for three phases are arranged in order side by side in the housing.
US08411415B2 Non-thermofusible phenol resin powder, method for producing the same, thermosetting resin composition, sealing material for semiconductor, and adhesive for semiconductor
Disclosed is a non-thermofusible phenol resin powder having an average particle diameter of not more than 20 μm and a single particle ratio of not less than 0.7. This non-thermofusible phenol resin powder preferably has a chlorine content of not more than 500 ppm. This non-thermofusible phenol resin powder is useful as an organic filler for sealing materials for semiconductors and adhesives for semiconductors. The non-thermofusible phenol resin powder is also useful as a precursor of functional carbon materials such as a molecular sieve carbon and a carbon electrode material.
US08411413B2 High voltage EDLC cell and method for the manufacture thereof
An EDLC device in which the double layer capacitors themselves are produced lithographically. The resultant EDLC can be of any capacitance and voltage combination for a particular application. The entire lithographically formed entity can be housed in a single container and rated according to its capacitance and voltage standoff characteristics. Through material control processes, the electrochemical composites developed onto the current collector is unilaterally equalized, providing the desired distributed voltage standoffs, thus promoting the ability to design high voltage independent cells without the normal electronic balancing circuitry associated with multiple series-connected electrochemical cells.
US08411410B2 Flat Ni particle, laminated ceramic electronic component using flat Ni particle, and production method flat Ni particle
Provided is a flat Ni particle which has a large specific surface area, permitting efficient binder removal when the flat Ni particle is used for internal electrodes of a laminated ceramic electronic component. The flat Ni particle has a thickness t (m), a specific gravity ρ (g/m3), and a radius r (m), and a specific surface area S1 (m2/g), such that the specific surface area S1 is adapted to have a relationship of 1.5×S0
US08411403B2 Voltage surge and overvoltage protection with current surge protection
Disclosed are various embodiments of voltage protectors that include a first voltage clamping device configured to clamp a voltage of an input power applied to an electrical load, and a second voltage clamping device configured to clamp the voltage applied to the electrical load. A series inductance separates the first and second voltage clamping devices. Also, a switching element is employed to selectively establish a direct coupling of the input power to the electrical load, where a circuit is employed to control the operation of the switching element.
US08411400B2 Method and apparatus for mitigation of dynamic overvoltage
A distribution and power transformer has its primary connected to the high voltage bus of the network and its secondary connected to a switching device. Upon the occurrence of a condition known to cause a dynamic overvoltage (DOV) and the occurrence of the DOV, a control system causes the switching device to change from a nonconductive mode to a conductive mode in less than the time for one cycle of the operating frequency of the AC network. This change in switching device conduction places a short circuit across the transformer secondary and thus mitigates the DOV.
US08411398B2 Electrostatic discharge protection
An integrated circuit (100) comprising a driver element (108) electrically connected to a pin of a package housing the integrated circuit (100), the driver element (108) being associated with a detection element (128) such that on detection of an electrostatic discharge event occurring at the pin by the detection element (128) a system associated with the integrated circuit (100) can be activated.
US08411387B2 Injecting processing fluid while writing data
An apparatus and associated method is provided for injecting a processing fluid in a device that operably rotates a disc stack. A fluid injector has a nozzle defining an outlet sized to longitudinally span the disc stack to operably direct the processing fluid toward the disc stack. The nozzle also has a flow rate feature that operably directs a first flow rate of the processing fluid from the nozzle into a space adjacent a storage surface of a first disc of the disc stack and that directs a substantially different second flow rate of the processing fluid from the nozzle into another space adjacent a storage surface of a second disc of the disc stack.
US08411385B2 Systems and methods for improved timing recovery
Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for timing recovery. As an example, timing recovery circuits include: a first digital interpolation circuit, a second digital interpolation circuit, a phase selection circuit, and a sampling clock rotation circuit. The first digital interpolation circuit is operable to receive a data input and to provide a first interpolated output corresponding to a first phase, and the second digital interpolation circuit is operable to receive the data input and to provide a second interpolated output corresponding to a second phase. The phase selection circuit operable to select the first phase for processing, and the sampling clock rotation circuit is operable to move a sampling clock away from the first phase.
US08411384B2 Writer having a shield structure for adjacent and far track interference refreshment
In one embodiment, a data storage system includes a magnetic head having a main magnetic pole and a wrap around shield positioned around the main magnetic pole at an ABS thereof, a magnetic medium, a drive mechanism for passing the magnetic medium over the magnetic head, and a controlling mechanism electrically coupled to the magnetic head for controlling operation of the magnetic head that initiates rewriting of information of a recording track of the magnetic medium if a recording magnetic field applied to the recording track exceeds a threshold. In another embodiment, a method includes writing data to a first track of a magnetic medium using a magnetic head, determining characteristics consistent with data degradation from tracks adjacent to the first track and far tracks away from the first track using a controlling mechanism, and rewriting data in tracks determined to be degraded due to ATI and/or FTI.
US08411374B2 Image pickup optical system and image pickup apparatus using the same
The image pickup optical system comprises: an aperture is placed on the most object side, the image pickup optical system comprises, in order from the object side: a first lens having a positive refractive power; a second lens having a negative refractive power; a third lens having a positive refractive power; a fourth lens having a positive refractive power; and a fifth lens having a negative refractive power, and the following conditional expression is satisfied: −1.49<(r6+r7)/(r6−r7)<1.24  (1) where r6 is the paraxial radius of curvature of an object side surface of the third lens, and r7 is the paraxial radius of curvature of an image plane side surface of the third lens.
US08411370B2 Zoom lens and imaging apparatus
A zoom lens includes, in order from an object side to an image side: a first lens group that has a positive refractive power; a second lens group that has a negative refractive power; and a third lens group that has a positive refractive power, wherein the second lens group is constituted by three lenses of a first negative lens, a second negative lens, and a positive lens which are arranged in order from the object side to the image side, wherein an aspheric surface is formed on at least an object side of the positive lens in a shape of which a curvature gradually decreases as an outer periphery of the lens gets closer from an optical axis, and wherein the following Conditional Expressions (1) and (2) are satisfied: 0.8<10×(R22r−R23f)/(R22r+R23f)<1.8  (1) 3.0<100×{D(2,23)/TH2}<7.0  (2).
US08411369B2 Imaging lens, optical apparatus including imaging lens and method for manufacturing imaging lens
An optical system includes, in order from an object side: a first lens group G1 having negative refractive power; and a second lens group G2 having positive refractive power; upon zooming from a wide-angle end state W to a telephoto end state T, a distance between the first lens group G1 and the second lens group G2 varying, and the second lens group G2 moving, and the second lens group G2 including a focusing lens group Gf that carries out focusing from an infinity object to a close object, and a decentering lens group Gs that is movable in a direction having a component perpendicular to an optical axis, thereby providing an optical system capable of establishing both of internal focusing and a decentering lens group with obtaining compactness and excellent optical performance, an optical apparatus equipped with the optical system, and a method for manufacturing the optical system.
US08411362B2 Optical element retaining system for sensor systems
A system for retaining an optical element with a card assembly and heat sink is provided. The retaining system includes an optical element fastener and a retainer member. The optical element fastener is configured to hold the optical element to the heat sink. The retaining member is configured to hold the card assembly to the heat sink, and also serves to make the optical element fastener captive. In one embodiment, the retaining member includes a ridge for holding the card assembly to the heat sink. The top end of the retainer member may also include one or more recessed slots for tool engagement to facilitate fastening of the retainer member. In one embodiment, the retaining member is threaded at the bottom end to fasten the retaining member to the heat sink. Also, in one embodiment the retaining member includes an axial opening used to access the optical element fastener.
US08411361B2 Zoom lens, and optical apparatus and method for forming an image of an object using the zoom lens
A zoom lens has a plurality of lens groups which are disposed in order from an object along an optical axis, wherein among the plurality of lens groups, a first lens group, which is disposed closest to the object, has a positive refractive power, and includes an optical axis bending element for bending the optical axis, and a plurality of lens components, which are disposed closer to the object than the optical axis bending element, and the plurality of lens components include at least one positive lens that satisfies a condition of νd>50, where νd is an Abbe number, with respect to the d-line, and at least one of the lens groups disposed closer to the image than the first lens group can move in a direction substantially perpendicular to the optical axis as a shift lens group or a partial lens component(s) constituting this lens group.
US08411353B2 Quasi-phase-matched wavelength converter
There is provided an optical frequency converter comprising: an optical guiding structure having an input and an output, and comprising: a first grating portion adjacent to the input; a second grating portion adjacent to output, and a third grating between the first and second grating portion to form an apodized step-chirped grating extending between the input and the output. Each grating portion comprises a plurality of sections each comprising a plurality of segments. Each segment has a segment width and comprises a poled region having a poled width at least equal to one micron and a reversely poled region. The segment width for all of the grating portions and a duty ratio of the poled width to the segment width are constant within each section. The duty ratio increases within the first grating portion, decreases within the second grating portion, and is constant within the third grating portion.
US08411339B2 Holographic imaging systems with DC balance
A holographic imaging system includes an electrical addressable spatial light modulator (EASLM) and an optically addressable spatial light modulator (OASLM). A read light is configured to illuminate the OASLM, and a controller is configured to address the EASLM with both positive and negative sub-images and transmit the positive and negative sub-images to the OASLM. The controller is further configured to address the OASLM with an operating voltage, wherein the read light generates a holographic image comprised of diffraction patterns from the positive and negative sub-images.
US08411332B2 Image forming apparatus
A power saving mode includes a plurality of levels that are different in recovery time to a normal mode and in power consumption of a main body system. The plurality of levels are set to correspond to remaining heat temperature of a fixing device so that the recovery time to the normal mode becomes shorter as the remaining heat temperature is higher, and the power consumption of the main body system becomes lower as the remaining heat temperature is lower. Depending on a change in the remaining heat temperature, a power control section switches to a level corresponding to the remaining heat temperature, of the plurality of levels of the power saving mode of the main body system.
US08411329B2 Dual optical path image scanner for automatic image quality measurements in an image production device
A method for automatically measuring image quality using a dual optical path image scanner an image production device is disclosed. The method may include receiving a signal to measure image quality, moving a flip-mirror into an optical path of the image scanner, initiating scanning and printing of a test image for measuring image quality, outputting the test image, and measuring image quality based on the output test image.
US08411325B2 Method for screening color separations of a lenticular image, computer program product and method for producing a lenticular image on a printing material
A method for screening color separations of a lenticular image having a lenticular frequency of lenticular lenses for viewing the image, with a lens width l. An amplitude-modulated halftone image is calculated for each color separation at one screen angle with a rational number tangent and screen frequency. The screen has non-orthogonal screen cells spanned by vectors u, v for a specific color separation. A distance k is defined. Directions of vectors u, v relating to perpendicular direction relative to image strips of the lenticular image are defined for the specific color separation. First (n, m) and second (i, j) pairs of rational numbers are defined, to satisfy a system of equations: n*ux+m*vx=0, n*uy+m*vy=1, i*ux−j*vx=k and i*uy−j*vy=0 for vectors u=(ux, uy) and v=(vx, vy) spanning screen cells. A computer program product is also provided.
US08411324B2 Selection of exposure intensity and cleaning field intensity setpoints for optimum line width using sensor reading
Line width of images marked by an image marking device is adjusted by reading a calibration patch marked by the marking device, and then adjusting one or more settings of the marking device, such as exposure intensity or cleaning field intensity, independent of the digital control of the tone reproduction curve so that the line width of subsequently marked images becomes closer to a target value. A digital control may be implemented to compensate for the impact of the modification of the one or more settings on the tone reproduction curve.
US08411322B2 Image processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, image processing method and recording medium on which image processing program is recorded
An image processing apparatus that is capable of determining a document size with high accuracy, even when a device for detecting the document size is not placed therein and an input operation of the document size by a user is eliminated is provided. A page background determining section extracts candidates for page backgrounds from input document image data and determines the number of page background types. A white pixel counting section counts the number of white pixels from input document image data. A document size determining section determines the document size of the input document image data, based on the number of page background types determined by the page background determining section, a page background density value which is the lowest density value in one or a plurality of page background areas determined to be page backgrounds, and the number of white pixels extracted by the white pixel counting section.
US08411316B2 Method and apparatus for printing images comprising individual information corresponding to face recognition information on second side of sheet of printing paper
An apparatus and method of printing a personal image including at least one person, and individual information corresponding to the person or location information of a place in which the personal image was captured, on respective sides of a sheet of printing paper. The apparatus and method can print the image and individual information by providing an image file comprising a personal image including at least one person and face recognition information of the person to a printing apparatus, printing the personal image on a first side of the sheet of printing paper, and printing individual information corresponding to the face recognition information on a second side of the sheet of printing paper.
US08411309B1 Integrated circuit and electronic device
An integrated circuit includes IP (Intellectual Property) cores and intermediary circuits. The intermediary circuits are each connected to one IP core among the IP cores, and relay, using an NoC (Network On Chip) scheme, packets transmitted/received between the IP cores. The intermediary circuits are connected to each other. Each of the intermediary circuits replaces, when the intermediary circuit has received flow-control packets which are each transmitted from one IP core to another IP core in order to notify the other IP core of free-space information of a data buffer which the one IF core has, in a case where destinations of the flow-control packets are the same IP core, the flow-control packets with one flow-control packet including the free-space information included in the flow-control packets, and transmits the one flow-control packet to the IP core which is the destination.
US08411304B2 Method and system for automatic sharing and custom user interface features in a fleet of multi-function devices
A method and system for enabling automatic service sharing and custom user interface features in a fleet of multi-function devices. EIP (Extensible Interface Platform) services can be registered via a peer-to-peer discovery subsystem associated with a multi-function device grid infrastructure. EIP service registration information can be submitted and stored in the grid infrastructure. The multi-function devices can be equipped with an enterprise EIP client, which can query the discovery subsystem and apply a corporate policy. The discovery subsystem detects the optimal instance of the service based on loading and availability factors and then returns a reference with respect to the services that allows access to enhanced services. Such an approach enables a fleet of multi-function devices to dynamically discover EIP services and auto populate service options to provide increased capability, reduced complexity, and improved speed.
US08411300B2 Image processing apparatus and workflow execution system, method, and program for executing workflow by proxy image processing apparatus
In a workflow execution system, work control information for executing a work assigned to one of a plurality of image processing apparatuses connected to a network; workflow execution information indicating which works of a workflow have been executed; and information indicating an image processing apparatus on the next tier, are stored in a portable recording medium. When the work is executed by a proxy image processing apparatus, it is judged from the information stored in the portable recording medium whether or not the work can be executed by the proxy image processing apparatus, and if it can be executed, the work is executed based on the information stored in the portable recording medium. When proxy execution of the work is completed, workflow execution information including the execution result and image information are stored in the portable recording medium and transmitted to the image processing apparatus on the next tier.
US08411299B2 Approach for managing print errors using a print agent
An approach for managing print errors using a print agent includes a spooler process initiating a print agent in response to receiving error data that indicates that a printing device cannot currently process print data. The print agent provides printing device discovery services that determine other printing devices that are available to process the print data and allow a user to redirect the print data to another printing device. The print agent may also provide error logging functionality that allows the creation of an error log. The error log contains information about the errors that prevented the printing device from processing the print data. The error log aids users and/or administrative personnel in diagnosing and/or addressing the errors. The use of a print agent in this manner provides users with more information about printing errors and also allows users to select an alternative printing device to process print data.
US08411298B2 Methods and systems for printing device load-balancing
Embodiments of the present invention comprise systems and methods for providing load-balancing in cluster printing environments. Embodiments may operate in conjunction with journalled print files, pre-processed, printer-ready print files and other file types. Some embodiments provide load-balanced cluster printing through a printer-independent, driver-independent print system component.
US08411286B2 Device for measuring static tilt angle of voice coil motor
The present disclosure relates to a device for measuring a static tilt angle of a voice coil motor. The voice coil motor includes a movable part for coupling to a lens barrel. The device includes a laser transmitter and receiver, a fixture opposite to a surface of the laser transmitter and receiver, a reflective component on the movable part, and a processor electrically connected to the laser transmitter and receiver.
US08411285B2 Stationing an unleveled optical total station
A method of stationing an unleveled optical total station includes placing the unleveled optical total station at a first station. At the first station, positions of at least three non-collinear measurement points in an instrument coordinate system are determined using the unleveled optical total station. The method also includes obtaining positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in a local coordinate system. A transformation is computed between the instrument coordinate system and the local coordinate system using the positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in the instrument coordinate system and the positions of the at least three non-collinear measurement points in the local coordinate system.
US08411283B2 Method for the measurement of the stock of a gear
A method for the measurement of the stock of a gear with an axis of rotation which has to be finished in the hardened state, wherein the gear has a gearing with a plurality of teeth at its outer and/or inner circumference and wherein the teeth have, compared with the finished geometry, a stock on their tooth flanks. To carry out a reliable measurement of the stock the invention proposes that the position of the surface of the tooth flank with the stock is detected by using optical distance measurement by means of a distance sensor, wherein a light beam is directed by the distance sensor onto the surface, wherein the light beam is guided onto the surface in such a way that it is perpendicular to the axis of rotation or that it is parallel to this direction.
US08411281B2 Fabry-perot interferometer having an increased spectral band
A Fabry-Perot interferometer includes a fixed mirror structure and a movable mirror structure. The fixed mirror structure has a fixed mirror in a spectral region. The movable mirror structure includes a membrane spaced from the fixed mirror structure. The membrane has a movable mirror in the spectral region and multiple springs arranged one inside the other around the spectral region. A spring constant of the inner spring is less than a spring constant of the outer spring. One of the fixed mirror structure and the membrane has multiple electrodes, and the other of the fixed mirror structure and the membrane has at least one electrode that is paired with the electrodes to form opposing electrode pairs arranged one inside the other around the spectral region. The number of the opposing electrode pairs is equal to the number of the springs.
US08411278B2 Measurement of small accelerations by optical weak value amplification
An accelerometer instrument is provided for measuring acceleration. The instrument includes a laser, a Mach-Zender interferometer (MZI), a mechanical spring, a detector, a camera, and an analyzer. The laser emits a coherent light beam of photons. The MZI includes first and second beam-splitters along with first and second mirrors. The first mirror has an established mass m and connects to the spring for vibrating substantially perpendicular to its reflection plane. The mechanical spring has an established spring constant k. The MZI has an established weak measurement Nw based on a known offset ε for the beam-splitters. The detector detects the beam beyond the second beam-splitter. The camera provides a pointer measurement shift δq of the photons. The camera is disposed after the detector. The analyzer determines the acceleration α based on a = ( k mN w ) ⁢ δ ⁢ ⁢ q .
US08411276B2 Multi-grade object sorting system and method
A paper sorting system allows the high speed determination of the presence of printed matter for individual sheets of paper in a stream of waste paper. Sorting criteria may be selected by a user from a plurality of predefined options to sort the paper stream. The selected category of paper to be sorted may include newspaper or magazines.
US08411275B1 Nanocomposite thin films for high temperature optical gas sensing of hydrogen
The disclosure relates to a plasmon resonance-based method for H2 sensing in a gas stream at temperatures greater than about 500° C. utilizing a hydrogen sensing material. The hydrogen sensing material is comprised of gold nanoparticles having an average nanoparticle diameter of less than about 100 nanometers dispersed in an inert matrix having a bandgap greater than or equal to 5 eV, and an oxygen ion conductivity less than approximately 10−7 S/cm at a temperature of 700° C. Exemplary inert matrix materials include SiO2, Al2O3, and Si3N4 as well as modifications to modify the effective refractive indices through combinations and/or doping of such materials. At high temperatures, blue shift of the plasmon resonance optical absorption peak indicates the presence of H2. The method disclosed offers significant advantage over active and reducible matrix materials typically utilized, such as yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) or TiO2.
US08411245B2 Multi-display mirror system and method for expanded view around a vehicle
A multi-display vehicular rearview mirror system (2600) and method includes an electrochromic (EC) glass element (2603) and a plurality of liquid crystal displays (LCDs) (2605a, 2605b, 2605c) positioned behind EC element (2603). A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) (2610a, 2610b, 2610c) are used for providing backlighting for each respective LCD of the plurality of LCDs such that the LCDs utilize a plurality of imaging devices (2717, 2719, 2721) for forming substantially a single image across the plurality of LCDs (2605a, 2605b, 2605c).
US08411240B2 Liquid crystal display device and method of driving liquid crystal display device
According to one embodiment, a liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a liquid crystal layer, scanning lines, signal lines, pixel switches, first electrodes, a scanning line drive circuit, a second electrode, a voltage supply wiring, a control mechanism, a first switching mechanism, a second switching mechanism, and an output timing switching mechanism. The output timing switching mechanism is configured to simultaneously output a second scanning signal of switching the pixel switch into conductive state to the scanning lines, based on the control signal.
US08411233B2 Method for manufacturing a color filter substrate
A light shield member in a LCD unit includes a first shield section that includes a pile of two color filter patterns and separates each effective opening of pixel from an effective opening of the adjacent pixel, and a second shield section that includes a pile of three color filter patterns and shields a TFT area including a TFT and the vicinity thereof.
US08411232B2 Liquid crystal display with a reduced flexoelectric effect
A liquid crystal display with a first substrate and a first pixel electrode on the first substrate. The first pixel electrode extends along first and second directions and has a plurality of first pixel electrode strips arranged along a first direction. The display also has a common electrode on the first substrate that is spaced from the pixel electrode along a third direction. In addition, the display has a light shield extending along the second direction and positioned to overlap at least part of an outermost strip of the first pixel electrode along the first direction.
US08411229B2 Backlight unit and liquid crystal display device having the same for improving image quality
Provided is a backlight unit with an extending portion that extends from one of a plurality of sheets included in an optical sheet. The optical sheet is on a light guide plate, and a light emitting diode chip is disposed at a side of the light guide plate. A portion of a flexible printed circuit board, to which the light emitting diode chip is mounted, overlaps a portion of the light guide plate. The extending portion overlaps the portion of the flexible printed circuit board. Thus, the occurrence of lines of light due to light progressing between the light guide plate and the flexible printed circuit board can be prevented, thereby obtaining uniform brightness and improving image quality.
US08411221B2 Display device and repairing method for the same
A display device and a repairing method for the same are disclosed. The display device includes a substrate, a pixel array, at least one gate driver unit, at least one source driver unit, a first repair line, a second repair line, a first dummy line, and a second dummy line. The first repair line is disposed between the pixel array and the source driver unit. The second repair line is disposed opposite to the first repair line on the pixel array. The first dummy line and the second dummy line are respectively disposed at two sides of the pixel array and crossing the gate lines, the first repair line, and the second repair line. A signal transmission is not required to go around the outmost periphery of the gate driver unit in a repairing process. As a result, the signal attenuation can be decreased effectively.
US08411219B2 Liquid crystal display device and manufacturing method of the same
The present disclosure relates to a liquid crystal display device having a protection element for semiconductor layer from externally intruding light and a manufacturing method of the same. The present disclosure suggests a liquid crystal display device comprising a substrate; a data line and a gate line crossing each other on the substrate; a thin film transistor formed at a crossing portion of the data line and the gate line; a passivation layer covering the thin film transistor; and an opaque protective layer forming on the passivation layer and covering the thin film transistor. The liquid crystal display device according to the present disclosure blocks the light intrusion into the semiconductor active layer of the thin film transistor to enhance the electron mobility in the active layer and the reliability of the elements.
US08411218B2 Pixel array substrate
A pixel array substrate includes a pixel region and a circuit region adjacent to the pixel region. A plurality of display pixel units are disposed in the pixel region and a plurality of dummy pixel units are disposed in the circuit region. Each of the dummy pixel units includes a data line, a scan line, a plurality of switching elements and a plurality of pixel electrodes. The switching elements are electrically connected to the scan line and data line. The pixel electrodes are electrically connected to the switching elements. Particularly, electrostatic currents in the pixel region can be dissipated by the dummy pixel units in the circuit region. The dummy pixel units preserve the continuity of electricity in the pixel array substrate and function as an inner short ring. Therefore, the area of the circuit region on the pixel array substrate is larger.
US08411216B2 Active matrix substrate, liquid crystal panel, liquid crystal display unit, liquid crystal display device, television receiver, and active matrix substrate manufacturing method
Each pixel region includes first and second pixel electrodes (17a, 17b) and first and second capacitor electrodes (67x, 67y) positioned on a layer where a data signal line (15) exists. The first and second capacitor electrodes are aligned in a row direction in such a manner as to overlap a retention capacitor line (18) via a first insulating film and to overlap the second pixel electrode (17b) via a second insulating film. A drain electrode (9) of a transistor (12), the first pixel electrode (17a), a first connection line (38) connected with the first capacitor electrode (67x), and the second connection line connected with the second capacitor electrode (67y) are electrically connected with one another. A part of the first connection line (38) and a part of the second connection line (39) do not overlap the retention capacitor line (18). This allows increasing production yields of an active matrix substrate based on a capacitive coupling pixel division system and a liquid crystal panel including the active matrix substrate.
US08411206B2 Apparatus and method for decoding extended color space data
In one embodiment, an image decoding system for a YCbCr formatted signal includes a color space converter capable of representing an RGB image signal with one or two negative image signal components. The image decoding system further includes a degamma correction unit and an image signal formatter. An offset of the image black level from zero corresponding to the image signal offset produced by the color space converter is employed to perform degamma correction. In a further embodiment, gain, offset, and sign are removed from the image signal produced by the color space converter prior to degamma correction. The image signal formatter may utilize a one-dimensional and a three-dimensional lookup table to produce an image signal that may include secondary and white image components. The system advantageously accommodates decoding xvYCC-encoded image data in conventional as well as new hardware display system architectures.
US08411204B2 Image display device
According to the present invention, there is provided an image display device for displaying acquired image information including: an information acquisition section for acquiring image information and information associated with the image information by communication from an external device; an adjustment section for executing image quality adjustment processing in relation to display of the image information; and a setting section for setting details of the image quality adjustment processing, based on the information. Therefore, details of the image quality adjustment processing may easily be set automatically in an appropriate manner.
US08411202B2 Automatic gain control circuit in video signal processing device
In an automatic gain control circuit comprising a black level detecting unit which detects a black level from a video signal, a white level detecting unit which detects a white level from the video signal, and an analog-to-digital converter which adjusts a dynamic range of the video signal based on a difference value between the black level and the white level, a video signal for adjustment including a black level which indicates a minimum brightness of a video image and a white level which indicates a maximum brightness of the video image is input and the dynamic range is adjusted.
US08411197B2 Image pickup device and production method thereof
An image pickup device is disclosed that has little deformation caused by thermal expansion of a transparent resin for sealing an image pickup element. The image pickup device includes an image pickup element having a light receiving surface, a micro-lens for condensing incident light to the image pickup element, a first transparent plate disposed on the light receiving surface of the image pickup element with the micro-lens in between, a transparent resin that seals the image pickup element and the first transparent plate, and a second transparent plate disposed on the transparent resin to face the first transparent plate.
US08411196B2 Digital camera with movable mirror for AF in live view mode and optical viewfinder mode
A digital camera of the present invention includes a microcomputer 110 having a live view mode controlling so that image data generated by a CMOS sensor 130 or image data obtained by subjecting the image data generated by the CMOS sensor 130 to predetermined processing is displayed on a liquid crystal monitor 150 as a moving image in real time, wherein when a release button 141 receives an instruction regarding start of an autofocus operation in a live view mode, the microcomputer 110 controls a movable mirror to enter an optical path to measure by an AF sensor 132, and thereafter, allow the movable mirror to retract from the optical path to return the digital camera to the live view mode. Due to this configuration, in a digital camera that includes a movable mirror and is capable of displaying a subject image in a live view through an electronic viewfinder, the operability thereof can be enhanced.
US08411186B2 Solid state imaging device, imaging apparatus, and AD conversion method
A solid state imaging device includes: an AD conversion section having one comparison section, which receives a reference signal from a reference signal generator that generates the reference signal whose level gradually changes and which compares the reference signal with an analog signal to be processed, and one counting section, which receives a count clock for AD conversion and performs a count operation on the basis of a comparison result of the comparison section, for each of M signal lines to which the signal is supplied and that acquires the signal on the basis of output data of the counting section; an operation period control section controlling an operation period of the counting section on the basis of the comparison result; and a control section performing control regarding which of the signals, which are supplied through the M signal lines, is to be processed and which one of m levels of the signals to be processed is to be processed and controlling the processing order.
US08411180B2 Solid-state imaging device, camera system, solid-state imaging device reading method and program
A solid-state imaging device includes: a pixel section formed by pixels having a photoelectric conversion function arranged in a matrix; a pixel driving section driving the operation of the pixels to allow a readout to be performed according to a readout mode; a readout circuit reading out signals from the pixels and outputting the signals as image data in a raw data format; and a logic section performing scaling and phase correction in preparation for a resolution conversion process on a signal output from the readout circuit. The logic section includes a resize portion performing a scaling process on the signal from the readout circuit according to a scaling factor N and a correction portion obtaining a distance Scaled_P between pixels of the same color which have been scaled from the scaling factor N, a readout factor B, and a distance P between pixels of different colors, obtaining the amount of correction to be made on a pixel to be corrected from the distance Scaled_P and the distance P, and performing phase correction according to the amount of correction.
US08411179B2 Imaging device, method of converting read-out signal, and camera
An imaging device includes: a pixel unit that converts incident light into an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of the incident light; and a read-out unit that reads out a read-out signal from the pixel unit for a first period and a second period, wherein the read-out unit includes a clock signal generating section that generates clock signals having a frequency corresponding to the voltage of the read-out signal, a first counter section that counts the clock signals generated by the clock signal generating section, a second counter section that counts output clock signals of the first counter section, a first correction section that corrects the voltage of the read-out signal to be constant before start of counting of the first and second counter sections for the first period and stops correction of the voltage of the read-out signal after the start of counting of the first and second counting sections for the first period and during the second period, and a second correction section that corrects a frequency of the output clock signal of the first counter section to a frequency that is higher than the frequency of the output clock signal.
US08411178B2 Solid-state imaging apparatus, imaging system and driving method for solid-state imaging apparatus
A solid-state imaging apparatus, an imaging system and a driving method for the solid-state imaging apparatus that can reduce jaggy while increasing speed of operation for reading out signals are provided. The driving method includes a first step of storing one or more signals from the plurality of pixels in each of the plurality of first holding units; a second step of adding the signals from the plurality of pixels stored in the plurality of first holding units; and a third step of outputting the signal stored in the second holding unit, such that at least a part of a period of the first step is overlapped with a period of the third step.
US08411176B2 Image input device
Provided is an image input device capable of generating a luminance signal having a high ratio of S/N of an image, and further capable of providing the image with a little uncomfortable feeling even in the night time when the amount of photons is few, wherein, when a visible light luminance signal is relatively low, and an infrared component is predominant in an original image component, for example, correcting color-difference signals with added luminance prevents the color-difference signals with the added luminance from being too high, thereby it becomes possible to perform more natural color reproduction, which is close to original visible light, and gives a little uncomfortable feeling.
US08411172B2 Imaging device and image processing apparatus
An imaging device includes an imager, with which an optical image of an object scene is repetitively captured. A first movement detector detects, as to each of a plurality of object scene images according to a time series output from the imager, a movement of a first feature point between the object scene image and the object scene images immediately before, and a clipper performs clipping processing on each of the plurality of object scene images on the basis of the detection result. When a still image recording operation is performed, a CPU changes an exposure time of the imager in such a direction as to shorten the time, and a second movement detector detects a movement of a second feature point between the object scene image immediately after the recording operation (reference object scene image) and the three object scene images being successive thereto out of a plurality of object scene images, and an adder adds the respective three object scene images to the reference object scene image while displacing the same on the basis of the detection result.
US08411169B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to an image processing apparatus that generates control information related to the generation of image data executed in shooting processing, and generates component information of a special effect, for example, such as a film grain, based on the control information.
US08411168B2 Imaging apparatus and video data creating method
Image data (still image data) is encoded to create video data. When an interval recording mode is set, a plurality of video data created by an encoder (image compressor 42) are merged, and the merged video data is recorded as a single interval video data. In the interval recording mode, power supply to the encoder is stopped every time an encoding process of the image data is completed. After the stop of the power supply to the encoder, the power supply to the encoder is resumed when an encoding process of the next image data needs to be performed. Continuity information is managed during the stop of the power supply to the encoder. The continuity information is necessary for creating the plurality of video data so that the interval video data constitutes a stream that can be reproduced continuously.
US08411167B2 Titling apparatus, a titling method, and a machine readable medium storing thereon a computer program for titling
An apparatus for giving a title to a captured image includes a unit for storing a captured image group including a plurality of captured images, a unit for storing an image capturing time when each of the stored images is captured, a unit for judging an image capturing period and an image capturing season including the stored image capturing time, a unit for storing terms respectively related to a plurality of periods with different time widths each of which includes a period and a season, the term corresponding to the period and the season, and a unit for giving a title to the stored captured image group by using a term related to a period of a wider time width out of the stored terms as a difference between the image capturing time and either the image capturing season or the acquired output time, whichever is longer.
US08411155B2 Image pickup apparatus and lens barrel
An imaging apparatus capable of preventing photographing sensitivity from being increased more than necessary, reducing image quality degradation caused by camera shake or object shake and easily photographing images in good image quality. The imaging apparatus includes an imaging optical system that forms an optical image of a photographing object. An imaging sensor receives the optical image and converts the optical image to an electrical image signal. A detector determines, based on the image signal, whether the photographing object is a specific photographing object likely to move while a photograph is being captured that corresponds to information stored in a memory device provided to the imagining apparatus. A control section establishes an operational mode causing the imaging apparatus to continuously take a plurality of photographs of the photographing object when the photographing object is determined to be the specific photographing object that is likely to move.
US08411154B2 Image processing apparatus for calculating global motion vector of plurality of image frames
An imaging device performs a process for dividing each of a plurality of image frames constituting moving image information generated by an imaging unit into a plurality of blocks; a process for tracking predetermined ones of the obtained blocks in one of two image frames before and after the image frame of interest to calculate a plurality of motion vectors of the blocks, respectively; a process for comparing one of the calculated motion vectors with each of other motion vectors, the one motion vector serving as an evaluation target, thereby calculating a global motion vector of the one image frame; and a process for excluding blocks present within a predetermined distance from one block related to one motion vector serving as the evaluation target from comparison targets the motion vectors of which are to be compared with the one motion vector, when the global motion vector calculation unit calculates the global motion vector.
US08411153B2 Camera unit and multimedia information appliance including camera unit
A camera unit includes an image sensor, an image signal processor, an application processor and a frame memory. The image sensor receives an optical signal from a lens unit and converts it into an electrical signal. The image signal processor converts the electrical signal into an image signal, and includes a first sub block controlling the image sensor and the lens unit and a second sub block receiving and processing the image signal from the first sub block. The application processor receives the image signal from the second sub block and further processes the image signal. The frame memory is connected to the second sub block and the application processor to store the processed image signal. The image sensor and the first sub block constitute a first chip not connected to the frame memory, and the second sub block and the application processor constitute a second chip connected to the frame memory.
US08411151B2 System for, and method of, processing an image
A software development kit prioritizes certain aspects of an acquired image and introduces the prioritized aspects to a main processor. Alternatively, a coprocessor, or the coprocessor and the development kit, manipulate(s) the acquired image and introduce(s) the manipulated image to the processor. The reprogramming of either one of the development kit and the coprocessor may be initiated by either one of them or by the processor and the programming may be provided by the main processor. A central station and a gate array may also be individually reprogrammable by the main processor which sets up, programs and controls an intelligent imaging platform in accordance with the individual reprogrammings. A reprogramming of an audio acquisition stage may also be initiated by that stage and any of the other stages and the processor and may be provided by the processor. The audio information may be related to the acquired image.
US08411146B2 Single camera color and infrared polarimetric imaging
A single aperture polarimetric color imaging system includes a color filter array including a plurality of RGB filter elements in a path of received radiation that includes color band and near IR light. A linear polarizer array includes a plurality of polarization filter elements that provide a plurality of different polarization orientations that are optically aligned with the RGB filter elements. A single common pixel array includes a plurality of photodetector pixels for transducing the color band or near IR light into electrical signals after processing by the color filter array and linear polarizer array. A band select switching device switches between selectively transmitting the near IR band and color band or color band including light. A signal processor is coupled to receive and process the electrical signals from the common pixel array and generates polarimetric image data from the near IR band light and color image data from the color band or color band including light.
US08411145B2 Vehicle periphery monitoring device, vehicle periphery monitoring program and vehicle periphery monitoring method
A vehicle periphery monitoring device includes an image processing target area setting portion (21) configured to set an image processing target area in the captured image based on a distance detected by a radar between object and a vehicle; a directivity extracting portion (22) configured to perform a differential filtering on each of pixels in the image processing target area in a predefined direction; an image processing target area correcting portion (23) configured to extract a feature region having a feature amount of a pedestrian's head and to correct a range of the image processing target area based on a position of the feature region; a contour extracting portion (24) configured to extract a contour of the image portion included in the corrected image processing target area; and an object type discriminating portion (25) configured to discriminate a type of the monitoring object based on the extracted contour.
US08411137B2 Dual projection system with inversely synchronized channel projections
A dual projection system utilizes a first projector and a second projector to project alternating left and right channel images of a 3D display. The projectors are inversely synchronized such that while the first projector projects a right channel image the other projector projects a left channel image. A projection filter in each projector has left channel properties when the image being projected is a left channel image and right channel properties when the image being projected is a right channel image. The images projected from each projector alternate between left and right channel images approximately once per frame.
US08411133B2 Mobile terminal and panoramic photographing method for the same
A mobile terminal and panoramic photographing method for the same are provided. The panoramic photographing method includes displaying a preview image upon selection of a panoramic mode, successively capturing a first partial image and second partial image in response to input of a shooting start signal, setting a photographing direction through a comparison between the first partial image and second partial image, and producing a panoramic image in the set photographing direction. As a result, the user does not have to set the photographing direction to capture a panoramic image using a mobile terminal.
US08411125B2 Exposure device and image forming apparatus, with driving unit setting barycentric position
Each of a plurality of pixels is formed with a group of a plurality of spots or a single spot. The barycentric position of each pixel is determined by the distribution of the spots or the position of the single spot. While the number of pixels on the exposure object is maintained in a first direction corresponding to the array direction of the light sources, an exposure feasible width on an exposure object can be adjusted in the first direction by setting the barycentric position at least in the first direction out of the first direction and a second direction that is the moving direction of the exposure object.
US08411118B2 Flat panel display and method for detecting resolution of image signal thereof
A flat panel display includes a data interface, a scaler control circuit, and a pulse generator configured to provide an independent pulse signal to the scaler control circuit. The data interface is configured to receive an image signal including a vertical synchronization pulse signal and a horizontal synchronization pulse signal. The scaler control circuit is configured to determine a vertical resolution of the image signal by counting a number of pulses of the independent pulse signal respectively between two adjacent vertical synchronization pulses and between two adjacent horizontal synchronization pulses. A method for detecting a resolution of an image signal received by the flat panel display is also provided.
US08411117B2 Display device having optical sensors
The present invention relates to a display device that has a plurality of optical sensors provided in a display panel and that can be operated by touching a screen with a finger or pen. A liquid crystal panel with built-in sensors (11) includes a plurality of pixel circuits (1) and a plurality of optical sensors (2) which are arranged two-dimensionally. An MPU (18) selects either a mode that detects a shadow image of an object or a mode that detects a reflection image of the object, based on an illumination of outside light. One frame time is divided into a display period and a sensing period. A backlight (14) is controlled to be turned on during the display period in the shadow image mode and during the sensing period in the reflection image mode, and to be turned off during the sensing period in the shadow image mode and during the display period in the reflection image mode. According to the present invention, the detection accuracy for a touch position is increased while the power consumption of the backlight is suppressed.
US08411107B2 Adaptive snapping
A computer implemented method, apparatus, system, article of manufacture, and computer readable storage medium provide the ability to position/manipulate an object in a computer drawing application. A drawing model having a snap option and a first zoom level is displayed. The snap option that enables a positioning of an object in alignment with grid lines by causing the object to automatically jump to an exact position when the object is moved to within a first snap distance of the exact position. A zoom operation changes the first zoom level to a second zoom level. Automatically, dynamically, and independently from additional user actions, the first snap distance is recalculated based on the second zoom level.
US08411099B2 Computer graphics processor and method of rendering images
Therefore, a computer graphics processor with a forward mapping renderer is provided. The renderer comprises a texture space rasterizer (TS) for rasterizing a primitive in texture space, a color generating unit (PS) for determining the color of the output of the texture space rasterizer (TS) and for forwarding a color sample along with coordinates, a 2 pass screen space resampler (SSR1, SSR2) for resampling the color sample determined by the color generating unit (PS), and at least one one-dimensional blur filter unit (1PB, 2PB) associated to at least one pass of said screen space resampler (SSR1, SSR2) for performing a one-dimensional filtering before performing said at least one pass.
US08411096B1 Shader program instruction fetch
Embodiments for programming a graphics pipeline, and modules within the graphics pipeline, are detailed herein. Several of these embodiments utilize offset registers associated with the instruction tables for the modules within the pipeline. The offset register serves as a pointer to locations in the instruction table, which allows instructions to be written to be instruction table, without requiring that the shader programs have explicit addresses. One embodiment describes a method of programming a graphics pipeline. This method involves accessing the shader program stored in memory. A shader instruction is generated from this shader program, and loaded into an instruction table associated with a target module graphics pipeline. The shader instruction is loaded into the instruction table at the location indicated by an offset register.
US08411092B2 2D imposters for simplifying processing of plural animation objects in computer graphics generation
The technology herein involves use of 2D imposters to achieve seemingly 3D effects with high efficiency where plural objects such as animated characters move together such as when one character follows or carries another character. A common 2D imposter or animated sprite is used to image and animate the plural objects in 2D. When the plural objects are separated in space, each object can be represented using its respective 3D model. However, when the plural objects contact one another, occupy at least part of the same space, or are very close to one other (e.g., as would arise in a situation when the plural objects are moving together in tandem), the animation system switches from using plural respective 3D models to using a common 2D model to represent the plural objects. Such use of a common 2D model can be restricted in some implementations to situations where the user's viewpoint can be restricted to be at least approximately perpendicular to the plane of 2D model, or the 2D surface on which the combined image is texture mapped can be oriented in response to the current virtual camera position.
US08411089B2 Computer graphics method for creating differing fog effects in lighted and shadowed areas
A method for providing fog or fading due to atmospheric effects during computer animation of an image. The method includes determining a lighting value for a scene's or an image's pixels based on the positions of the pixels relative to a light source. The method includes, for each of the pixels, setting a fade in start distance for each pixel measured from a camera location so as to define when fog is added, e.g., when to fade a pixel's color by blending this color with a fog color. The fade in start distances are set based on each pixel's lighting value, whereby pixels with smaller lighting values or shadowed pixels begin to fade first while highlighted pixels fade with greater distances. The method includes adding fog to the image starting at the fade in start distances for each of the pixels and then rendering the image.
US08411077B2 DC-DC converter and organic light emitting display device using the same
A DC-DC converter having low power consumption by reducing an input current and an organic light emitting display using the same. In one embodiment, a DC-DC converter includes a buck-boost circuit for generating and outputting a second power of a second power source by receiving an input voltage. The buck-boost circuit adjusts and outputs the voltage level of the second power of the second power source in response to the voltage level of the input voltage. A controller controls the buck-boost circuit. The buck-boost circuit includes a first coil coupled between a first node and a ground; a first capacitor having first and second electrodes, the first electrode being coupled to the first node, a first switch coupled between the first node and an input terminal; and a second switch coupled between the second electrode of the capacitor and ground.
US08411074B2 Gate driving circuit having a shift register stage capable of pulling down gate signals of a plurality of shift register stages
A high-reliability gate driving circuit includes a plurality of odd shift register stages and a plurality of even shift register stages. Each odd shift register stage generates a corresponding gate signal furnished to a corresponding odd gate line according to a first clock and a second clock having a phase opposite to the first clock, and further functions to pull down a gate signal of at least one even gate line or at least one odd gate line different from the corresponding odd gate line. Each even shift register stage generates a corresponding gate signal furnished to a corresponding even gate line according to a third clock and a fourth clock having a phase opposite to the third clock, and further functions to pull down a gate signal of at least one odd gate line or at least one even gate line different from the corresponding even gate line.
US08411067B2 Capacitive touch sensor and fabrication method thereof and capacitive touch panel
A capacitive touch sensor includes multiple first-axis traces, multiple second-axis traces, an insulation layer and multiple metal traces. Each first-axis trace includes multiple first touch-sensing pads and first connecting lines connected therebetween. Each second-axis trace includes multiple second touch-sensing pads and second connecting lines connected therebetween. At least one of the first connecting line and the second connecting line is a metal printing line.
US08411064B2 Contact detecting device, display device, and contact detecting method
A contact detecting device includes: n driving electrodes that are arranged in a scanning direction; a detection drive scanning unit that selects continuous m (2≦m
US08411062B1 Adaptive drive system
An apparatus includes a down pump configured to generate a regulated voltage signal based, at least in part, on an input voltage and a reference voltage. The apparatus includes a level shifter configured to generate an activation signal having a voltage level corresponding to the reference voltage based, at least in part, on the input voltage and the regulated voltage signal. The apparatus includes a switching device configured to generate a drive signal corresponding to the input voltage in response to the activation signal.
US08411061B2 Touch event processing for documents
One or more touch input signals can be obtained from a touch sensitive device. If the touch input signals are associated with one or more regions of a web page displayed on the touch sensitive device, a touch event associated with the regions of a web page is processed by the web page. Otherwise, the touch events can be processed by an application (e.g., a browser).
US08411060B1 Swipe gesture classification
Systems and methods for processing a swipe gesture are provided. A method includes receiving an indication of the swipe gesture via a touch screen. The indication of the swipe gesture includes a first event position on the touch screen associated with a first event time and a second event position associated with a second event time. The method also includes calculating a gesture speed for the swipe gesture. The method also includes calculating a reconstructed event position based on the gesture speed and one of the first event position and the second event position. The method also includes, if the reconstructed event position is closer to the edge than the edge threshold, providing an output associated with taking a first action. The method also includes, if the reconstructed event position is further from the edge than the edge threshold, providing an output associated with taking a second action.
US08411057B2 Protection-plate-attached electronic member
A protection-plate-attached electronic member including: a first electronic member including a first transparent substrate; an adhesion layer which overlaps with the first transparent substrate; a protection plate fixed to the first electronic member in a state in which the adhesion layer intervenes between the protection plate and the first transparent substrate; and a peeling auxiliary section which intervenes between the adhesion layer and one of the protection plate and the first electronic member so as to lower bonding strength between the adhesion layer and the one of the protection plate and the first electronic member, wherein the adhesion layer includes an overlapping section which overlaps with the peeling auxiliary section; and a nonoverlapping section which does not overlap with the peeling auxiliary section and which directly contacts with the one of the protection plate and the first electronic member.
US08411049B2 Information processing apparatus
An information processing apparatus includes a display control unit that causes a display unit having a display screen to perform information display; a switching unit that performs switching between a touch input enable state, in which predetermined processing is performed in response to touch input, and a touch input disable state, in which the predetermined processing is not performed even when touch input is detected; and a detector that is disposed at a position different from a position of the touch position detector and that performs predetermined detection. The display unit can be switched between an inactive state and an active state. The switching unit includes a first controller that sets the touch input disable state when the display unit enters the inactive state, and a second controller that performs switching to the touch input enable state in accordance with the result of the predetermined detection.
US08411043B2 Electronic device
An electronic device including a casing, a touch display and a processor is provided. The casing has an opening, and the touch display is disposed inside the casing for receiving the operation of an input tool. The opening exposes a portion of the touch display. The touch display has a sensing surface. The processor is coupled to the touch display, and the user interface displayed by the touch display is determined by the processor. As a result, the convenience of operating the electronic device is increased.
US08411041B2 Touch event-driven display control system and method for touchscreen mobile phone
A touch event-driven display control system and method for a touchscreen mobile phone is provided to control the information display by onscreen touch manipulation. An information display method for a touchscreen-enabled device according to the present invention includes detecting a touch on an information region of a touchscreen, determining a type of the touch and processing display of information item according to the type of touch.
US08411029B2 Gaming keyboard and related methods
A gaming keyboard and related methods are disclosed that provide features to enhance the computer gaming experience. A keyboard connection pod is disclosed that improves power capabilities of the keyboard thereby allowing for enhanced features that require more power. A panic mechanism is disclosed that can be triggered to cause one or more selected keys to change states. Keycap rim-lighting is disclosed that provides improved visual indication of key positions. A hand registration enhancement is disclosed including a spacebar having a thumb notch and/or WASD and spacebar keys with different tactile response than other keys. Function keys are disclosed that are positioned proximate to allow reduced movement of the left hand. An integrated cord wrap tray is disclosed for a peripheral such as a mouse. Other features and variations are also disclosed.
US08411027B2 Image display apparatus
A plurality of scanning signal lines GLn divided into groups, and each group is made up of three scanning signal lines GLnR, GLnG and GLnB, and a plurality of pixels are divided into pixel blocks, and each pixel block is made up of three pixels PR (n, m), PG (n, m) and PB (n, m) respectively connected to the scanning signal lines GLnR, GLnG and GLnB. These pixels PR (n, m), PG (n, m) and PB (n, m) are connected to a common data signal line SLm. To the scanning signal lines GLnR, GLnG, GLnB, scanning pulses are sequentially outputted to the scanning signal lines GLnR, GLnG and GLnB from shift registers SRnR, SRnG and SRnB, and video signals for R, G and B are outputted to the data signal line SLm from a driver IC by time division.
US08411015B2 Operational amplifier, source driver of a display, and method for controlling the operational amplifier thereof
An operational amplifier includes a first stage, a second stage, and a switching unit. The first stage receives an analog input signal. The second stage has an output node coupled to an output switch. The switching unit is coupled between the first stage and the second stage. The switching unit includes a capacitive component and a first switch coupled to the capacitive component in series. The first switch is turned off when the output switch is turned on. The first switch is turned off while the analog input signal is in transition, and is turned on while the analog input signal is steady. The first switch is turned on when the output switch is turned off.
US08411012B2 Liquid crystal display device with charging and discharging module
By way of enabling a reset signal while turning off a liquid crystal display, a method for decaying residual image of the liquid crystal display is capable of setting the corresponding gate signal of each of a plurality of gate lines of the liquid crystal display based on the enabled reset signal. Accordingly, enhanced discharging processes on all the storage units of the liquid crystal display for fast decaying residual image can be performed via the data switches of the liquid crystal display turned on by the gate signals being set. The reset operation for performing discharging processes in response to the reset signal can be carried out based on a reset circuit for setting all the gate signals to become high-level signals, or based on a charging/discharging module for furnishing a high-level voltage directly to all the gate lines.
US08411009B2 Liquid crystal display device and method for driving the same
A liquid crystal display device comprises a display area including a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix. A driving unit to drive the plurality of pixels each having a pixel switch is connected to signal lines and scan lines. An auxiliary capacitance voltage is interposed to a pixel electrode connected to the pixel switch through auxiliary capacitance lines arranged along the pixels in a row direction. The driving unit includes an auxiliary capacitance line driving circuit to supply a first voltage, a second voltage smaller than the first voltage and a third voltage smaller than the second voltage to the auxiliary capacitance lines. The voltage difference between the first voltage and the second voltage is smaller than that between the second voltage and the third voltage.
US08410996B2 Display device
A display device includes a display panel including first to fourth pixels in a first direction, wherein each of the first to fourth pixels has a first width in the first direction and a length more than the width and in a second direction; and a backlight unit including first and second line light regions supplying light to the display panel to display three-dimensional images, wherein the first and second line light regions have a slanted angle with respect to the second direction, wherein light from the first line light region comes to right and left eyes of a viewer through the first and second pixels, respectively, and light from the second light region comes to the right and left eyes through the third and fourth pixels, respectively, wherein the display device has K view points.
US08410992B2 Fluorescent dye to improve primer coverage accuracy for bonding applications
A method of visually verifying the application of a primer or adhesion promoter to a surface for optimizing the adhesion of a bonding tape to the surface. A fluorescing agent is mixed with the primer and a light source is emitted on the surface causing the agent to fluoresce when the primer is applied. The technician can then visually verify coverage of the primer. The fluorescing agent does not affect the bonding properties of the bonding tape or affect the aesthetic appearance of the surface or the material being bonded to the surface.
US08410990B2 Antenna with integrated RF module
An antenna assembly includes an antenna housing, an antenna located within the housing, a radio frequency (RF) module located within the housing and connected to the antenna, and a wire assembly operably associated with the module. The module includes a radio frequency device, such as a transmitter, receiver or transceiver, electrically connected to the antenna. The wire assembly includes electrical wires for providing external power to the module and conducting processed signals between the module and external circuitry. The proximal nature of the antenna and RF module reduces or eliminates induced power losses between the antenna and module, resulting in a very effective power transfer ratio. A conductive sleeve is located in the housing and surrounds the RF module. The conductive sleeve is electrically connected to the module to thereby provide a ground plane for the antenna and a shield against outside emissions. A spacer located between the sleeve and the mounting base together with a step between the sleeve and the wire assembly provide a choke effect for the RF energy.
US08410971B2 System and method for configuring operation of a remote control by a display device
System and methods are provided for configuring operation of a remote control by a display device. In one embodiment a method includes detecting user selection of an input of the display device and determining a command for the remote control based on the user selection of the input, wherein the command identifies a configuration for the remote control. The method further includes transmitting the command to the remote control, by the display device, for configuration of the remote control, wherein the configuration specifies operation of the remote control with one or more devices associated with the input.
US08410960B2 Method to linearize the output from an ADC
A method is disclosed of compensating the output of an ADC for non-linearity in the response of the ADC. The method comprises converting an analog input signal to uncorrected digital ADC output samples, applying a vector of correction variables to each of a block of uncorrected ADC output samples to provide a block of corrected ADC samples, and iteratively minimizing a measure of the spectral flatness of the block of corrected ADC samples with response to the vector of correction variables.
US08410958B2 Digitizing apparatus, digitizing method and capacitance touch sensing apparatus
A digital apparatus includes a timing control circuit, a period counter, a phase digitizer and a calculation circuit. The timing control circuit generates a first control signal according to a square wave signal and a predetermined value. The period counter generates a first digital value according to a reference clock signal and the first control signal. The phase digitizer generates a second digital value according to a phase difference between the square wave signal and the reference clock signal. The calculation circuit generates an output digital value according to the first digital value and the second digital value. An object of obtaining a high-resolution digitization with a reasonable sampling clock is realized by effectively combining the period counter with the phase digitizer.
US08410957B2 Traffic light passing support system, in-vehicle apparatus for the same, and method for the same
An in-vehicle arithmetic unit calculates a required time, which is needed for a vehicle to arrive at a traffic light when the vehicle maintains a present speed, according to a speed of the vehicle, a present position of the vehicle, and information on the traffic light. An in-vehicle determination unit determines whether the vehicle can pass the traffic light by maintaining the present speed, according to the required time and the traffic light information. An in-vehicle generating unit generates a request signal to request the traffic light to light a passing permission color such as a blue light after the required time elapses, in response to a determination that the vehicle cannot pass the traffic light. An in-vehicle transmission unit transmits the request signal to the traffic light. A control unit of the traffic light controls the signal light according to the transmitted request signal.
US08410951B2 Detecting a signal quality decrease in a measurement system
Techniques for detecting a signal quality decrease are disclosed. A sensor or probe may be used to obtain a plethysmograph or photoplethysmograph (PPG) signal from a subject. A wavelet transform of the signal may be performed and a scalogram may be generated based at least in part on the wavelet transform. One or more characteristics of the scalogram may be determined. The determined characteristics may include, for example, energy values and energy structural characteristics in a pulse band, a mains hum band, and/or a noise band. Such characteristics may be analyzed to produce signal quality values and associated signal quality trends. One or more signal quality values and signal quality trends may be used to determine if a signal quality decrease has occurred or is likely to occur.
US08410942B2 Systems and methods to adjust an adjustable bed
A system and method provide for reducing the snoring of a person sleeping on an adjustable bed. The system comprises a device configured with at least a microphone and a speaker, the device configured to monitor for a noise consistent with snoring. The system further comprises a control unit communicably coupled to the device and configured to actuate at least one motor of the adjustable bed to adjust at least a portion of the adjustable bed, wherein the control unit is further configured to actuate the at least one motor in response to the device detecting a noise consistent with snoring.
US08410936B2 Contactless card that receives power from host device
A memory card compatible RFID card includes a smartcard controller that receives power from a host device. The RFID card also includes a small inductive device capable of inductive coupling with an RFID reader. The small inductive device is small enough to fit in the form factor of a memory card. Commands may be sent to the RFID card to keep the RFID card powered.
US08410926B1 Alarm for security tag
A security system can include a tag unit adapted to be secured to an infant via band. The first tag unit can include a temperature sensor, and a capacitance sensor. A temperature alarm can be provided in response to a negative slope of a temperature curve associated with temperature data from the temperature sensor. A capacitance alarm can be provided in response to a comparison to capacitance data from the capacitance sensor to a baseline when the tag unit is not secured to the infant. A resistance alarm can be provided in response to resistance data indicating a spike in resistance followed by a relatively flat line response.
US08410912B2 Printing device
A printing device capable of detecting an error type, that is, at which step in a printing process an error has occurred and capable of performing a simplified procedure for identifying the cause of the error. The printing device includes a reader/writer for writing information into an RFID tag and for detecting errors at a plurality of steps in a procedure for writing the information into the RFID tag and a ROM for storing each of the error patterns at respective steps at which errors have been detected by the reader/writer. When an error is detected by the reader/writer, a control unit reads, from the ROM, one of the error patterns corresponding to a step at which the error has been detected and prints the detected error on an RFID label.
US08410911B2 RFID network system
A RFID network system which allows the use of simple and low cost, reduced functionality RFID readers/writers thanks to the use of a plurality of concentrators which allow to distribute the processing work related to the reading, writing and verification of each reader, thus optimizing the use of each system component and achieving high processing velocities.
US08410910B2 Passive contactless integrated circuit comprising a flag for monitoring an erase/programming voltage
A passive contactless integrated circuit includes an electrically programmable non-volatile data memory (MEM), a charge accumulation booster circuit for supplying a high voltage necessary for writing data in the memory. The integrated circuit includes a volatile memory point for memorizing an indicator flag, and circuitry for modifying the value of the indicator flag when the high voltage reaches a critical threshold for the first time after activating the booster circuit.
US08410898B1 Near field communication based key sharing techniques
A computer-implemented technique includes storing keychains in a memory of a computer. A login identifier and a password are received from a mobile device. The login identifier and the password are verified. Subsequent to the verification, one of the keychains is downloaded from the computer to the mobile device. The keychain includes N keys that are each associated with one of M physical locks of M locking devices, where N and M are integers greater than or equal to 1. The M locking devices or another locking device are monitored. Information in a key log is recorded when each of the N keys is used on one of the M locking devices or another locking device. The information includes a locking device identifier and a key identifier. The mobile device is alerted when each of the N keys is used based on the key log.
US08410897B2 Contact detection device for vehicular use and security device for vehicular use
Disclosed are a contact detection device for vehicular use and a security device for vehicular use that are capable of identifying whether contact is human-induced and that prevent erroneous detection due to raindrops and the like. A security device (10) is equipped with a contact detection device (11) comprising a contact unit (12), a detection unit (13), a standard detection pattern setting means (14) that sets standard detection patterns based on predefined patterns of human-induced contact to the contact unit, a detection signal identification means (15) that compares a detection signal detected by the detection unit (13) and the standard detection patterns that have been set and decides whether these match, and a contact identification signal output means (16), and is further equipped with a lock device (17) and a control device (18). The control device (18) comprises a security mode setting means (19) and a security mode specifying means (20) that specifies a security mode that has been predefined by the security mode setting means (19), and said control device causes the lock device (17) to execute the specified security mode.
US08410894B2 Method, particularly for manufacturing terminals for electric resistors, and the terminal obtained
A method for manufacturing terminals for electric resistors consists in preparing a piece of substantially pure copper; reducing the thickness, by cold pressing, of the piece so as to obtain from it at least one thick part and one thin part designed to form the tip of an electrical terminal to be obtained; obtaining, by rolling, a groove which is central to the thick part; and tapering, by rolling, the thin portion.
US08410892B2 Conductive matrix power control system with biasing to cause tripping of the system
A three-terminal device (1, 21, 31) which can operate as an electrical switch, controlled by a third terminal (3, 24, 36/36A) that controls switching the device (1, 21, 31) from a closed circuit (conducting) state to an open circuit (insulating) state. Polymer and/or ceramic materials are loaded with different conductive materials, forming a device (1, 21, 31) having various electrical conductivities depending on local temperature. In preferred embodiments, the device (1, 21, 31) exhibits a non-linear increase or decrease in resistance versus temperature. Various embodiments of the three-terminal devices (1, 21, 31) are disclosed. The third terminal (3, 24, 36/36A) may be a non-electrically conductive biasing element such as a thermal transfer rod or tube containing a variable temperature fluid.
US08410889B2 Transformer construction
The invention relates to a transformer construction comprising a plurality of transformer cores configured to share magnetic flux paths and, as a result, at least one of the cores comprises a post and an associated sidewall having an effective cross-sectional area which is less than that of the post. Such a construction may be employed in a power conditioning unit, for example, for a photovoltaic module, which is configured to operate the cores out of phase from each other. Also described is a transformer winding comprising a longitudinal spine having a first turn emanating from a first portion of the spine in a first transverse direction and a second turn emanating from a second portion of the spine in a second transverse direction, wherein the second transverse direction is opposite to the first transverse direction.
US08410877B1 Electromagnetic contactor and assembly method for the same
There is provided a drive lever incorrect assembly detection portion (9d) and (14) which causes another end portion (9a) of a drive lever (9) to protrude to a position, of a case (4), to which a cover (5) is attached such that the cover (5) cannot be attached to the case (4) in a state where the drive lever (9) is assembled in an incorrect direction.
US08410876B2 Electronic overload relay switch actuation
The disclosed concept provides for an operating mechanism in a overload relay assembly having a solenoid with a permanent magnet. The solenoid includes a ferrous output member. The solenoid moves the output member between a first retracted position and a second extended position. When the output member is in the first retracted position, the permanent magnet maintains the output member in the first retracted position. Thus, in a system wherein the overload relay assembly interrupts power to its own operating mechanism solenoid, the permanent magnet maintains the output member in the first retracted position even when the solenoid is de-energized.
US08410868B2 Methods and apparatus for temperature control of devices and mechanical resonating structures
Methods and apparatus for temperature control of devices and mechanical resonating structures are described. A mechanical resonating structure may include a heating element and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may sense the temperature of the mechanical resonating structure, and the heating element may be adjusted to provide a desired level of heating. Optionally, additional heating elements and/or temperature sensors may be included.
US08410866B2 Radio frequency filter and filtering unit thereof
Parameters of a radio frequency filter can be changed by changing structure of each component of the filter. Material of each component, diameters of each of magnetic cylinders, density of each of conductive coils, thickness of a dielectric layer, and thickness of an insulation tube can be changed. When any component needs to be replaced, each cover is rotated, with connection partitions moving to two slots of an insulation portion, to detach the filter.
US08410865B2 Surface acoustic wave filter and duplexer using the same
A SAW filter includes a piezoelectric body, an IDT electrode on the piezoelectric body, and signal wiring electrically connected to the IDT electrode. The signal wiring has a thickness not less than a skin depth specified based on the frequency of a signal passing through the signal wiring and the electrical conductivity of the signal wiring. As a result, the signal wiring has low propagation loss of the signal passing through it, so that the SAW filter has excellent transmission characteristics.
US08410857B2 Apparatus and method for generating a random bit sequence
An apparatus for generating a random bit sequence has a ring oscillator which includes inverting digital devices and on which an oscillator signal can be tapped. An intermediate storage element monitors and stores fluctuating levels of the oscillator signal. At least two controllable switch devices for simultaneously exciting at least two harmonic wave edges of the ring oscillator are provided in a signal path of the ring oscillator. The phasing of the two harmonic wave edges and a potential convergence thereof are subject to statistical fluctuations, which are used as a basis for the random bit generation. A corresponding random number generator can be used in particular as an FPGA for security applications, such as cryptographic methods. The apparatus has substantially digital components, which are easy to produce in a standardized manner. A dedicated regulating circuit is not necessary. The apparatus is also robust toward exterior influences.
US08410856B2 Method and apparatus for canceling balun amplifier noise
The noise figure of a low noise amplifier (LNA) is reduced without sacrificing performance such as gain, IIP3, and wideband impedance matching. Embodiments include configuring a control module of the LNA to sum and scale an output from a current-sensing branch of the LNA and an output from a voltage sensing branch of the LNA into one or more summed and scaled outputs. The control module also feeds the one or more summed and scaled outputs back to at least one of the outputs of the branches of the LNA.
US08410851B1 Switching amplifier with an inductor
pa A switching amplifying method or a switching amplifier for obtaining a linearly amplified replica of an input signal, is highly efficient, and does not have the disadvantage of “dead time” problem related to the class D amplifiers. Said switching amplifier comprises: an inductor means; a switching unit for switching a current from a DC voltage to the inductor means; a controllable diodes unit for blocking a current when the current from the DC voltage to the inductor means is switched on, and conducting the current from the inductor means to a filter unit when the current from the DC voltage to the inductor means is switched off; an amplifier control unit to control the switching unit and the controllable diodes unit according to the input signal; the filter unit filtering the output of the controllable diodes unit for getting an output signal.
US08410848B2 Enhanced doherty amplifier with asymmetrical semiconductors
The present disclosures an amplification unit which comprises a first amplifier and a second amplifier connected in parallel, the first amplifier and the second amplifier comprising semiconductor devices that are not the same amplifier design. The present application also discloses a signal input line connected to the first amplifier and the second amplifier. A signal output line is also disclosed which is connected to the first amplifier and the second amplifier.
US08410847B2 Input common mode voltage compensation circuit
A voltage level shifter for a direct coupling of an external voltage source to a common mode of a circuit may include an amplifier, a voltage-controlled current source, a first and second resistors. A first input of the amplifier may be connected to the common mode. A second input of the amplifier may, via the first and second resistors, receive a voltage indicative of the external voltage source. The output of the amplifier may indicate a voltage difference between the first and second inputs. The voltage-controlled current source may be controlled by the voltage difference to supply a current to a common node of the first and second resistors so that the voltage difference between the first and second inputs may be minimized.
US08410844B2 Filter device and control method of the same
There is provided a filter device having a function of adjusting the center frequency of a filter. The filter device includes: a filter core unit (102) provided with an adder (109) for outputting an added signal of an input signal and a feedback signal (signal Vf), an AGC circuit for generating an amplification signal in which the added signal is amplified, and a phase shifter (111) for generating the signal Vf by shifting a phase of the amplification signal; an amplitude comparing circuit (101) for comparing the reference amplitude and the amplitude of the signal Vf; a gain control voltage generator (108) for controlling the amplification factor of the AGC circuit (110) based upon the comparison result; a frequency comparing circuit (103) for comparing the reference frequency and the frequency of the signal Vf; a phase shifter control voltage generator (117) for controlling the shift amount of the phase in the phase shifter (111) based upon the comparison result. The gain control voltage generator (108) oscillates the filter core unit (102), while the amplification factor and the shift amount are being controlled.
US08410843B2 Polyphase nonlinear digital predistortion
Polyphase nonlinear digital predistorters (pNDPs) mitigate nonlinear distortions generated by time-interleaved digital-to-analog converters (TIDACs). Processors in an example pNDP compute nonlinear and linear compensation terms representative of channel mismatches and other imperfections in the TIDAC based on the digital input to the TIDAC. The pNDP subtracts these compensation terms from a delayed copy of the digital input to yield a predistorted digital input. The TIDAC converts on the predistorted digital input into a fullband analog output that is substantially free of nonlinear distortion.
US08410842B1 Power switch circuit
A power switch circuit includes a control circuit, and first and second detecting circuits. The control circuit includes first and second field effect transistors (FETs) and first and second sensing resistors. The first detecting circuit includes two input terminals connected to the first and second ends of the first sensing resistor and an output terminal connected to the first FET. The first detecting circuit controls the first FET to be turned on or turned off according to the voltages of the first and second ends of the first sensing resistor. The second detecting circuit includes two input terminals connected to the first and second ends of the second sensing resistor and an output terminal connected to the second FET. The second detecting circuit controls the second FET to be turned on or turned off according to the voltages of the first and second ends of the second sensing resistor.
US08410841B2 Input/output circuit
In some embodiments, an input/output (I/O) circuit sends and receives a high-level signal and a low-level signal via a coupling capacitance provided on a communication line. The I/O circuit includes a receiving portion including a first detection circuit arranged to detect one of the signals and a second detection circuit arranged to detect the other signal, a transmitting portion including a three-value output circuit configured to output one of signals consisting of a high-level signal, a low-level signal, and a high impedance signal, and a control circuit configured to control the receiving portion and the transmitting portion. The control circuit judges a level of an inputted signal depending on detection results of the first detection circuit and the second detection circuit in a receiving state and controls an output value of the three-value output circuit in a transmitting state.