Document Document Title
US08499360B2 Atomic force microscopes and methods of measuring specimens using the same
Atomic force microscopes and methods of measuring specimens using the same. An atomic force microscope may precisely measure a 3D shape of a specimen using both a short-stroke scanner and a long-stroke scanner. The atomic force microscope may include a stage to transfer a specimen, at least one cantilever which includes a probe such that a driving displacement and a driving frequency are changed by attractive force and repulsive force in relation to atoms of the specimen, at least one short-stroke scanner which includes the cantilever so as to perform short-stroke scanning of the specimen, at least one long-stroke scanner which includes the short-stroke scanner so as to perform long-stroke scanning of the specimen, and at least one coarse approach system for transferring the short-stroke scanner and the long-stroke scanner to the specimen.
US08499346B2 Secure authentication at a self-service terminal
A method of providing secure authentication of a service user at a self-service terminal is described. The method comprises: detecting attempted access by the service user to a restricted function on the self-service terminal and ascertaining if a predefined operating system account is present on the terminal. In the event that the predefined operating system account is not present, then the method comprises permitting access to the restricted function by the service user. In the event that the predefined operating system account is present, then the method comprises requesting the service user to provide login credentials and authenticating the login credentials using the operating system account. If the login credentials are not authenticated, access to the restricted function is denied; whereas, if the login credentials are authenticated, access to the restricted function is permitted.
US08499342B1 Systems and methods for using voiceprints to generate passwords on mobile devices
Systems for verifying a user's voiceprint and generating a password for use at one or more application servers are disclosed. The systems can reside on a network or on a device. The application servers can be in communication with one or more devices or networks. Several methods for verifying the identity of the user using possession-based, knowledge-based, location-based, and biometric access control are disclosed.
US08499341B2 Resumable private browsing session
A resemble private browsing session is activated on a network computing device communicatively coupled via a network to other network computing devices. The private browsing session restrictedly saves one or more network browsing memories corresponding to activity between the network computing device and other network computing devices. The one or more network browsing memories are restrictedly saved under protection of a private credential. After the private browsing session has ended, access to the private browsing session is blocked unless a received credential submission matches the private credential. If the received credential submission matches the private credential, the private browsing session is resumed with access to the one or more network browsing memories.
US08499340B2 IMS network identity management
Methods and apparatus for enabling secure communications between a UE (user equipment) device operating though a packet-switched network and a 3rd party service outside of the user's home domain. The packet-switched network may be, for example, configured according and IMS architecture and use SIP control signaling. An identity server in the user's home domain is coupled with a proxy server or gateway and receives control messages, on which the identity server effects identity translation if needed. Translating messages targeted for the third party serve includes stripping user identifying information and adding a domain identifier to the message. It may also include adding an identity token. Where an identity token is not added, it may be provided upon request to a 3rd party service entity. Translating messages targeted for the UE includes adding a user identifier for home domain routing.
US08499328B2 Agile distortion and noise cancellation across multiple channels and ports in a CATV upconverter/modulator
A distortion-cancellation method for analog CATV or QAM transmission over cable is provided wherein a single feedback path from the output of a multiple-channel multiple-port upconverter/modulator is down-converted and used to reduce or cancel undesirable noise components including LO leakage, spurious, and modulated noise. The method allows for real-time monitoring, tuning, or control of the CATV/QAM output and of interfering signals and aging effects as compared to a desired performance metric.
US08499327B2 Set top terminal performing service group number autodiscovery during initialization or boot-up process
A set top terminal is provided that includes a receiver having at least one tuner for receiving programming content over a content delivery system and a processor operatively associated with the receiver. The set top terminal also includes a switched digital video (SDV) application module operatively associated with the processor. The SDV application module is configured to perform an autodiscovery process by tuning to prescribed autodiscovery frequencies received by the tuner while the SDV application module is being initialized.
US08499321B2 Locally stored content previews: representative of programming content in an electronic programming guide through a graphic image accessed from the hard drive of a set top box
An integrated DSS/WebTV receiver is communicatively connected to an Internet service provider, a DSS service provider, and (optionally) a local broadcast station to provide a display of DSS programs, Internet web sites, and local broadcast channels in a seamless fashion. The DSS/WebTV receiver downloads graphic images, corresponding to DSS programs, from a DSS communication medium or the Internet into a local memory. The graphic images are periodically updated by the DSS service provider or Internet service provider. The DSS/WebTV receiver generates a graphical user interface (GUI), displayed on a television screen, for facilitating a user's navigation through the DSS, Internet, and local broadcast data. The GUI includes a selectable DSS program listing that displays DSS programs that are curl being broadcast or that will be broadcasted in the future. If a user selects a currently broadcasted program, the DSS/WebTV receiver displays the selected program on the television. If the user selects a program that is broadcasted in the future, the DSS/WebTV receiver displays a downloaded graphic image, corresponding to the selected program, on the television. The graphic image may be the selected program's name or logo, still shots from the selected program, short video clips related to the selected program, or advertisements related to the selected program.
US08499317B2 Mobile terminal and method of controlling a broadcast content display therein
The present invention includes comparing a content rating value set on a received broadcast content to a reference rating value set on the mobile terminal, if the content rating value meets the reference rating value as a result of the comparing step, displaying the broadcast content, receiving an input of a viewing restriction command signal in the course of displaying the broadcast content, if the viewing restriction command signal is inputted, adjusting at least one of a plurality of field values configuring the reference rating value to prevent the content rating value from meeting the reference rating value, and if the content rating value fails to meet the reference rating value as a result of the adjusting step, stopping a display of the first broadcast content.
US08499307B2 Internationalization of objects executable in a supervisory process control and manufacturing information system
An application object for a supervisory process control and manufacturing information system application distributable to a plurality of networked computer devices and having a layered architecture, the application object comprising a set of text entries listed in a first language, a dictionary within each object drafted to enable the set of text entries to be translated into a plurality of multiple languages, and a set of one or more translation fields for storing text in each of the plurality of languages corresponding to the set of text entries listed in the first language.
US08499301B2 Dynamically allocating server resources to competing classes of work based upon achievement of service goals
A facility for adjusting a number of servers assigned to server pools for performing certain work types on the basis of unmet service needs in a work processing facility. Servers may include service agents, both human and robotic. A server assignor and a corresponding server assignment method may each be employed in a work distributor or an automatic call distributor (“ACD”) to conditionally adjust server availability in server pools. The server assignor compares a composite preference value for a work type against each server's threshold value for the work type. When the server assignor determines that the composite preference value is greater than or equal to a server's threshold value, then the server assignor indicates that the server may be included in the server pool for that work type. Each server has preference values and threshold values for different kinds of work. The magnitude of a preference value represents an affinity for the work type. The server's threshold value represents a reluctance to perform work having that work type. The server does not normally receive work for which the preference value is less than the threshold value, unless the server assignor determines that the composite preference value exceeds the server's threshold value for that work type. The server assignor and corresponding server assignment method may compute the composite preference value from a number of user-selectable inputs and utilize a number of user-selectable functions.
US08499288B2 User interface analysis management
A target shim injected into a target process detects activity in a user interface and sets a target-busy status. A source shim injected into a source process detects the input being sent toward the target process to drive automated testing. The source shim determines that the target-busy status is set, and prevents the source process from sending the input until the status is clear. The target shim clears the status after confirming that a screen capture, accessibility test, localizability test, or other user interlace analysis operation has completed. Multiple source shims and/or multiple target shims may be present. Copies of a single automation shim component may be tailored for use as source shims or as target shims. Security processes and operating system processes may be listed to prevent interference from automation shims. User interface analysis module(s) may be loaded and/or unloaded “hot” while the target process is running.
US08499285B2 Method of logging stack trace information
A computer system comprises a memory configured to store software instructions; a set of registers; and a processing unit configured to temporarily store passed parameters in the set of registers during execution of the software instructions, the processing unit is further configured to skip save and restore operations when executing a logging function to log the passed parameters.
US08499282B2 System and method for extending capabilities and execution efficiency of script based applications
Scripting Language based applications can be limited in their ability to supply and execute sophisticated logic and complex processing. More traditional programming languages contain explicit function and/or procedure calls to implement more complex functionality, however, these languages use more complicated syntax and traditionally require mosophisticated programming knowledge to use. There are provided systems and methods for extending the capabilities of an application program for execution by a terminal. The application includes a script based workflow and non-executable content. One such method comprises loading the workflow for interpretation by a script interpreter, such that the workflow is configured for having a plurality of executable elements. This method also provides a global symbol structure for reference by the executable elements, the global symbol structure including addressing for coupling selected ones of the executable elements to corresponding external components. The external components are provided by a native runtime environment of the terminal for performing the action specified by the selected executable elements. This method also executes the executable elements in sequence such that execution of the selected ones of the execution elements are redirected to the respective external components through the corresponding global symbols of the global symbol structure. Predefined knowledge of the contents of the global symbol structure is shared by the runtime environment and the workflow of the application.
US08499268B2 Method of supporting layout design of semiconductor integrated circuit
In a method of supporting a layout design, a net list of an integrated circuit is divided into net lists of clock domain circuit aggregations. A timing constraint is generated to each of the clock domain circuit aggregations. An arrangement order of the clock domain circuit aggregations is determined to satisfy the timing constraint. A layout of the integrated circuit is generated by carrying out arrangement and wiring of the clock domain circuit aggregations based on the arrangement order.
US08499267B2 Delay library generation apparatus and method based on wiring arrangements
A delay library generation apparatus, associated control method, and associated program are provided. The delay library generation apparatus comprises a storage device which stores architecture information of a logic element array, layout data of an overall programmable logic device, a netlist of the overall programmable logic device, and a wiring route extraction unit which refers to the storage device and extracts wiring route information regarding a wiring route section based on the architecture information. Moreover, the delay library generation apparatus comprises an analyzing unit which analyzes the layout data of the logic device and extracts parameters of a parasitic element and a crosstalk between adjacent interconnections. The delay generation apparatus further comprises a delay calculation unit which calculates delay data based on the extracted parameters and a delay library generation unit which generates a delay library of the logic device based on the wiring route information and the delay data.
US08499263B1 Encrypted profiles for parasitic extraction
Aspects of the invention relate to techniques for generating encrypted profiles for layout features. According to various implementations of the invention, a layout feature is partitioned into subdomains. The subdomains are associated with boundary nodes and internal nodes. Based on layout design and process profile data for the layout feature, a first electric parameter relationship is determined for the boundary nodes and the internal nodes. An encrypted profile for the layout feature is then generated by converting the first electric parameter relationship into a second electric parameter relationship involving the boundary nodes. The encrypted profile may be used for extracting parasitic parameters associated with the layout feature.
US08499259B2 Polishing estimation/evaluation device, overpolishing condition calculation device, and computer-readable non-transitory medium thereof
A polishing estimation/evaluation device includes a dividing unit, an overpolished area extracting unit, and a dummy modifying unit. The dividing unit divides a layout of an integrated circuit into a plurality of partial areas. The overpolished area extracting unit refers to an overpolishing condition indicating whether overpolishing occurs in a vicinity of a partial area based on a wiring density in the partial area and a wiring density in surrounding areas of the partial area, and extracts a partial area where the overpolishing occurs from the plurality of partial areas obtained by the division by the dividing unit. The dummy modifying unit modifies dummy wiring in the partial area where the overpolishing occurs extracted by the overpolished area extracting unit and/or dummy wiring in surrounding areas of the partial area to reduce the number of partial areas where the overpolishing occurs.
US08499255B2 Organizational tools on a multi-touch display device
A process for enabling objects displayed on a multi-input display device to be grouped together is disclosed that includes defining a target element that enables objects displayed on a multi-input display device to be grouped together through interaction with the target element. Operations are invoked that establish a relationship between a particular displayed object and a position on the target element and that causes transformations applied to the target element also to be applied to the particular displayed object while maintaining the relationship between the particular displayed object and the position on the target element.
US08499251B2 Virtual page turn
One or more pages are displayed on a touch display. A page-turning gesture directed to a displayed page is recognized. Responsive to such recognition, a virtual page turn is displayed on the touch display. The virtual page turn actively follows the page-turning gesture. The virtual page turn curls a lifted portion of the page to progressively reveal a back side of the page while progressively revealing a front side of a subsequent page. A lifted portion of the page is given an increased transparency that allows the back side of the page to be viewed through the front side of the page. A page-flipping gesture quickly flips two or more pages.
US08499248B1 Methods and apparatus for managing and exchanging information using information objects
A system provides collaboration and exchange of information among a group of users based on creation, sharing and exchange of information objects (IOs). The system further provides hosted conversation among users through the use of IOs. A unique IO layout and a number of information views through which IOs can be viewed are also disclosed.
US08499243B2 Information processing device, information processing method, recording medium, and integrated circuit
An information processing device (100) includes a command management unit (101) storing a command in association with a parameter, an instruction receiving unit (104) receiving a user operation performed on an icon displayed on a display screen, a display control unit (10) causing an object icon identifying an object to be displayed in a first display area of the display screen, and an instruction generation unit (115) generating an instruction which is a group of the command and the parameter. The display control unit (10) further causes a command icon identifying a command executable on an operation target object to be displayed in a second display area, and causes a parameter icon identifying a parameter associated with the selected command to be displayed in a third display area. When at least two command icons are selected, the instruction generation unit (115) generates an instruction such that at least two commands identified by these two command icons respectively are executed in order of selection.
US08499239B2 Globe container
A globe container includes a front-side spherical cap. A plurality of content items are arranged with a convex three-dimensional perspective on the front-side spherical cap. The globe container has a changeable virtual orientation that determines which of the plurality of content items are arranged with the convex three-dimensional perspective on the front-side spherical cap. The globe container allows selection of any of the content items displayed on the front-side spherical cap.
US08499233B2 Systems and processes for transforming and displaying accounting and financial information
Embodiments of the invention can provide systems and processes for transforming and displaying accounting and financial information. One embodiment relates to the selection, or creation, and use of graphical symbols to represent the flow of cash in an organization, with the size of the graphical symbols presented approximately to scale. Another embodiment relates to the use of alternative units for displaying accounting and financial information, while another embodiment uses sound to present accounting and financial information, and yet another embodiment uses tactile display to present accounting and financial information.
US08499230B2 Critical path monitor for an integrated circuit and method of operation thereof
A path monitor, a method of monitoring a path, an integrated circuit and a library of standard logic elements. In one embodiment, the path monitor includes: (1) a delay element having an input couplable to an input of a clocked flip-flop associated with a path to be monitored and configured to provide a predetermined delay and (2) a clocked exclusive OR gate having a clock input, a first input coupled to an output of the delay element, a second input couplable to the output of the clocked flip-flop and an output at which the clocked exclusive OR gate is configured to respond to a clock signal to provide an error signal only when logic levels of the first input and the second input differ.
US08499221B2 Accessing coded data stored in a non-volatile memory
Adaptive endurance coding including a method for accessing memory that includes retrieving a codeword from a memory address. The codeword is multiplied by a metadata matrix to recover metadata for the codeword. The metadata includes a data location specification. The data in the codeword is identified in response to the metadata and the data is output as read data.
US08499218B2 System and method for determining quasi-cyclic low-density parity-check codes having high girth
A method estimates parameters of 3-phase voltage signals to synchronize a power grid in a presence of a voltage unbalance by transforming the 3-phase voltage signals to αβ-reference signals using a Clarke transformation matrix, and estimating sinusoidal signals and corresponding quadrature signals of the αβ-reference signals using an extended Kalman filter, and determining a phase angle of a positive sequence based on a relationship of the phase angle to the estimated the sinusoidal signals.
US08499216B2 Semiconductor storage device, method of controlling the same, and error correction system
A semiconductor storage device, a method of controlling the same, and an error correction system allow reduction in power consumption and circuit scale without detriment to error correction capability. An error correction code (ECC) circuit of a solid state drive (SSD) performs first error correction on read data using a first error correction code (Hamming code), and further performs second error correction on the result of the first error correction using a second error correction code (BHC code). Furthermore, the ECC circuit performs third error correction on the result of the second error correction using a third error correction code (RS code).
US08499212B2 Method and apparatus for adaptive forward error correction with merged automatic repeat request for reliable multicast in wireless local area networks
A method and apparatus are described for increasing multicasting reliability, including receiving content and a first layer of a plurality of a forward error correction coded packets from a first multicast group and joining an additional multicast group in order to receive one of additional layers of forward error correction coded packets and the content along with a further additional layer of the plurality of forward error correction coded packets.
US08499200B2 Managing code-tracing data
A method of managing code-tracing data is described. The method comprises the steps of: receiving code-tracing data from an executing software component; adding the received code-tracing data to a log stored in temporary storage; detecting a property of the received code-tracing data; copying the log to non-volatile storage when the property matches a defined trigger property; and deleting contents of the log according to a caching policy when the property does not match a defined trigger property.
US08499191B2 Failure recovery method for information processing service and virtual machine image generation apparatus
An information processing service is allowed to be immediately recovered from failure without clustering information apparatuses that provide an information processing service. A failure recovery method for an information processing service provided by an information apparatus, the method includes: preparing a virtual machine image generation apparatus which generates a virtual machine image, and a virtual machine execution apparatus which runs a virtual machine based on the virtual machine image; generating and storing, by the virtual machine image generation apparatus, the virtual machine image based on system data and hardware configuration information which enable implementation of the information processing service at a time of normal operation of the information processing service; and running, by the virtual machine execution apparatus, a virtual machine which provides a function of the information processing service based on the virtual machine image when a failure occurs in the information processing service.
US08499188B2 Processing device for determining whether to output a first data using a first clock signal or a second data using delay from the first clock signal according to a control signal
An embodiment of a processing device includes a function unit and a control unit. The function unit receives input data and performs a specific operation to the input data to generate result data. The control unit receives the result data and generates an output signal. The control unit latches the result data according to a first clock signal to generate first data and latches the result data according to a second clock signal to generate second data. The control unit compares the first data with the second data to generate a control signal and selects the first data or the second data to serve as data of the output signal according to the control signal. The second clock signal is delayed from the first clock signal by a predefined time period.
US08499177B2 Discovering a device presence and directing a power signal to the device from a port power controller through at most one of multiple physical ports at a time
A technique is able to direct a power signal from a port power controller to one of multiple physical ports. The technique involves activating a set of port power controllers. Each port power controller is constructed and arranged to deliver power to a device through at most one physical port at a time. The technique further involves performing a set of discovery operations to discover device presence, the set of discovery operations providing discovery data. The technique further involves providing, based on the discovery data provided by the set of discovery operations, a set of switching signals to switching circuitry which is coupled to a set of physical ports. The switching circuitry is constructed and arranged to steer power signals from the activated set of port power controllers through the set of physical ports to deliver power to a set of devices.
US08499172B2 Hardware-based key generation and recovery
A system and method of recovering encoded information contained in a device by storing and retrieving at least part of the necessary decoding data by setting and measuring the physical characteristics of the device. Storage and recovery options include, but are not limited to, measurement of electronic or optical characteristics of electrically or optically conductive portions of the device using a range of measurement techniques that include, but are not limited to, time-domain reflectometry.
US08499162B2 Non-transitory computer readable medium storing program, information processing apparatus, and information processing method
A non-transitory computer readable medium storing a program causing a computer to execute a process including: accepting an instruction for verifying an electronic signature added to information; verifying the electronic signature on the basis of an electronic certification corresponding to the electronic signature in accordance with the accepted instruction; calculating, when it is determined that the information has not been tampered with, a hash value of a combination of the information, the electronic signature, and validity-period information indicating a validity period of the electronic certification; adding a time stamp to the calculated hash value; outputting the information, the electronic signature, the hash value, and the validity-period information to a storage device; and outputting, when it is determined that the information has not been tampered with, a verification result including information indicating that the information has not been tampered with.
US08499154B2 System and method for establishing a secure connection with a mobile device
Methods and apparatus are provided for establishing a secure connection with a mobile device that is configured to store a first private key that mathematically corresponds to a first public key. The method comprises receiving a quasi-public key from a trusted entity, wherein the quasi-public key mathematically corresponds to a quasi-private key that is stored on the mobile device, receiving a first digital certificate from the mobile device, the first digital certificate comprising the first public key and a first digital signature generated with the quasi-private key, and authenticating the first digital certificate using the first digital signature and the quasi-public key.
US08499150B1 Selectively trusting signed files
A security module on a client detects a signed file at the client and reports signing information identifying a certificate used to sign the file and a file identifier identifying the file to a security server. The security server uses the signing information to determine whether the certificate is compromised. If the certificate is compromised, the security server compares a discovery date of the file with a compromise date of the certificate. The security server generates trust data assigning a trust level to the file responsive to the comparison. The trust data assign a low trust level to the file if the comparison indicates that the file discovery date is after the compromise date and assign a high trust level to the file if the comparison indicates that the file discovery date is not after the compromise date. The security server provides the trust data to the client.
US08499143B2 Method for shortening the boot time of a computer system
A computer system having an operating environment configured for enabling boot up in a relatively short time is disclosed. A hard disk is utilized to store a boot file. A run process list registers a process to be run during boot up. When the computer system is being booted up, if the run process list registers a process to load the boot file, a process control unit does not control a process management unit, so that the process is run as usual. If the process is not registered, the process management unit suspends the process. When the suspended process is called by another process later, the process control unit makes the process resumed on demand.
US08499141B2 Multi-socket server management with RFID
Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags embedded in processors within a computing system provide a separate communication path to other components of the computing system during initialization processing, apart from the system interconnect. Upon powering up, each processor causes its RFID tag to broadcast data regarding the processor's interconnect location and initialization status. A RFID receiver senses the RFID tags in the Platform Control Hub (PCH), and each processor's interconnect location and initialization status data is stored in registers within the PCH. During system initialization processing, the BIOS accesses these PCH registers to obtain the processor's data. The interconnect location and initialization status data is used by the BIOS to select the optimal routing table and configure the virtual network within the computing system based on the optimal routing table and the RFID tag data, without interrogating each processor individually over the system interconnect.
US08499140B2 Dynamically adjusting pipelined data paths for improved power management
A design structure embodied in a machine readable, non-transitory storage medium used in a design process includes a system for dynamically varying the pipeline depth of a computing device. The system includes a state machine that determines an optimum length of a pipeline architecture based on a processing function to be performed. A pipeline sequence controller, responsive to the state machine, varies the depth of the pipeline based on the optimum length. A plurality of clock splitter elements, each associated with a corresponding plurality of latch stages in the pipeline architecture, are coupled to the pipeline sequence controller and adapted to operate in a functional mode, one or more clock gating modes, and a pass-through flush mode. For each of the clock splitter elements operating in the pass-through flush mode, data is passed through the associated latch stage without oscillation of clock signals associated therewith.
US08499139B2 Avoiding stall in processor pipeline upon read after write resource conflict when intervening write present
An apparatus having a processor and a circuit is disclosed. The processor generally has a pipeline. The circuit may be configured to (i) detect a first write instruction in the pipeline that writes to a resource, (ii) stall a read instruction in the pipeline where (a) a first read-after-write conflict exists between the first write instruction and the read instruction and (b) no other write instruction to the resource is scheduled between the first write instruction and the read instruction and (iii) not stall the read instruction due to the first read-after-write conflict where a second write instruction to the resource is scheduled between the first write instruction and the read instruction.
US08499136B1 Method, system, and apparatus for expanding storage capacity in a data storage system
A method, system, and apparatus for expanding the storage capacity of a data storage system are provided. According to one method, the physical storage devices that store the data and metadata for one or more logical disks are organized into a container. A logical disk segment is created within the container for each logical disk. When storage capacity is added through the addition of logical disks, a new logical disk segment is added to the end of the container for the new logical disk. When storage capacity is added through the addition of capacity to an existing logical disk, a new logical disk segment is added to the end of the container for the new logical disk segment within the logical disk. The devices within a container may be migrated between server computers or between CPUs with their associated mass storage controllers.
US08499126B2 Memory control system and method
A memory control system includes a first queue unit, a second queue unit, a first transforming unit, a second transforming unit, an arbiter and a control unit. The first queue unit temporarily stores multiple first request instructions. The second queue unit temporarily stores multiple second request instructions. The first transforming unit selectively re-assigns memory addresses corresponding to these first request instructions. The second transforming unit selectively re-assigns memory addresses corresponding to these second request instructions. The arbiter performs immediate scheduling of the first request instructions and the second request instructions to the memory. The control unit compares bandwidths of the first request instructions with bandwidths of the second request instructions, and controls the first transforming unit and the second transforming unit to perform re-assigning operations or not according to compared results.
US08499124B2 Handling castout cache lines in a victim cache
A victim cache memory includes a cache array, a cache directory of contents of the cache array, and a cache controller that controls operation of the victim cache memory. The cache controller, responsive to receiving a castout command identifying a victim cache line castout from another cache memory, causes the victim cache line to be held in the cache array. If the other cache memory is a higher level cache in the cache hierarchy of the processor core, the cache controller marks the victim cache line in the cache directory so that it is less likely to be evicted by a replacement policy of the victim cache, and otherwise, marks the victim cache line in the cache directory so that it is more likely to be evicted by the replacement policy of the victim cache.
US08499116B2 Managing wear on independent storage devices
In a method of managing wear on a plurality of independent storage devices having respective sets of memory cells, access characteristics of the memory cells in the plurality of independent storage devices are monitored. In addition, an instruction to access data on at least one of the memory cells is received and an independent storage device of the plurality of independent storage devices is selected to access data on at least one of the memory cells of the selected independent storage device based upon one or more predetermined selection policies and the monitored access characteristics of the memory cells in the plurality of independent storage devices. Moreover, the selected independent storage device is assigned to access data on at least one of the memory cells of the selected independent storage device according to the received instruction.
US08499111B2 Information processing apparatus and clock signal controlling method controlling whether clock signal provided to interrupt signal controlling device
An information processing apparatus includes an interrupting signal control device including a mask controller, the mask controller controlling whether or not to mask at least one interrupting signal serving as a trigger signal triggering a predetermined process; and a clock control device including an interrupting clock signal controller, the interrupting clock signal controller sends a clock signal to the interrupting signal control device when at least one interrupting signal is not masked, and stops sending the clock signal to the interrupting signal control device when at least one interrupting signal is masked.
US08499100B1 Adaptive compression
A method, system, and apparatus are directed towards compression of content. A portion of content may be compressed using a compression mode. One or more criteria may be evaluated. Based on the evaluated criteria, a decision is made as to whether to select a different compression mode. If selected, the different compression mode may be used to compress another portion of the content. Additional compression modes may be selected and used to compress the content.
US08499083B2 Relay device and communication system
A relay device requests a status notification of another relay device to a server device. When the relay device is notified that the other relay device is under a logged-out status, the relay device stands by. When the relay device is notified that the other relay device has logged in, the relay device transmits a connection request to the server device. The server device relays the connection request to the other relay device. A response is transmitted from the other relay device to the server device, and further relayed to the relay device. Accordingly, a TCP connection is established between the relay device and the other relay device. A communication device connected to a different network can transmit and receive data to and from the relay device via the other relay device.
US08499076B2 Method for measuring the performance of an IP network and associated system
The invention relates to a method for measuring the performance of a network (18). The method includes steps comprising: parameterizing requests pointing to resources that can be accessed from a computer connected to the network, the parameterized requests being stored in a database; creating a user session comprising grouping together various stored requests; running a test campaign comprising concatenating in time the emission of the various requests in a session, each request being emitted by a user terminal connected to the network; for each one of the emitted requests, waiting for a response and calculating the value of at least one typical variable of the received response; and, aggregating the various values of the typical variable calculated during the test campaign to determine the value of a network performance estimator.
US08499075B2 Adaptive service discovery in structured peer-to-peer overlay networks and method
An overlay network, node and method for adaptive service discovery. The method uses an adaptive service discovery in the overlay network for finding a peer that provides a desired service; generates a tree structure for current peers that provide the desired service; assign the current peers that provide the desired service to different levels of the tree structure; estimate, when a peer intends to register for the desired service with the adaptive service discovery, a number S of actual peers that provide the desired service; and calculates, based on the estimated number of actual peers providing the desired service, an optimal starting level for the peer to register for the desired service.
US08499073B1 Tracking content across the internet
System, methods and articles of manufacture for tracking content across an Internet. An embodiment comprises receiving the content from a content source, wherein the content includes a unique content identifier, injecting the content into a content aggregation system, retrieving the unique content identifier from the content, analyzing the content based on the unique content identifier and data in the content aggregation system, and generating a report of the analyzed content.
US08499072B2 Self healing networking device systems and related methods
In one embodiment, a networking system can comprise a networking device comprising an operating system module and performance management modules. The performance management modules can comprise at least one of a channel hopping module or a channel bonding module. The channel hopping module can switch the networking device from a first channel to a second channel having less interference than the first channel. The channel bonding module can toggle the networking device between a single-channel communications mode and a bonded channel communications mode via a plurality of bonded channels. The operating system module can actuate at least one of the performance management modules to sustain a performance level of the networking device in response to one or more triggering events from a performance review operation executed by the operating system module. Other examples and related methods are described herein.
US08499071B2 Application monitoring
A method and apparatus for monitoring an application executing on a self-service terminal. The method comprises: registering with a services manager (such as an XFS or J/XFS manager) to receive event reports indicative of a change of state being sent to the application; accessing an operating system function to deduce a current status of the application; and communicating a status of the application to the remote management system, without communicating with the application, to enable the remote management system to manage the self-service terminal more effectively.
US08499065B2 Methods and apparatus to distinguish between parent and child webpage accesses and/or browser tabs in focus
Methods and apparatus to distinguish between parent and child webpage accesses and/or browser tabs in focus are disclosed. An example implementation includes identifying an HTTP request; retrieving Page Info data from a browser; electronically detecting if the Page Info data and the HTTP request identify a same Internet resource; electronically classifying the HTTP request as a parent call when the Page Info data and the HTTP request identify the same Internet resource; and electronically classifying the HTTP request as a child call when the Page Info data and the HTTP request identify different Internet resources.
US08499055B2 File decoding system and method
A file decoding method uses a master server to decode multimedia files. The method records statuses of a plurality of slave servers in a status table, receives a decoding request to decode the multimedia file from a web server, and selects one slave server from the status table to process the decoding request by the master server. The method further sends an Internet protocol (IP) address of the selected slave server to a web browser by the web server, sends a decoding command to the selected slave server by the web browser, decodes the multimedia file by the selected slave server, and transmits decoded data of the multimedia file to the web browser.
US08499052B2 Auto-resolve recipients cache
In embodiments, mobile devices request and utilize recipient caches. Recipient caches store information regarding previous recipients of communications. The information on recipients includes when the recipient was last contacted and the frequency with which a recipient is contacted. In embodiments, a mobile device requests a recipient cache from a server. When a user types a string of text, the mobile device then uses the recipient cache as well as the contacts and emails on the mobile device and resolves a recipient list. In other embodiments, a recipient cache on a server is updated when a mobile device sends a message with new recipient information. In another embodiment, a server resolves conflicting messages by using recipient information.
US08499050B2 Method, apparatus, and system for automatically replying to mail
A method, an apparatus, and a system for automatically replying a mail are provided. The method includes: receiving a new mail sent to a user; obtaining presence information of the user; searching for a mail automatic reply message corresponding to the presence information of the user; and sending the corresponding mail automatic reply message to a sender of the mail. Through the method, the apparatus, and the system, the presence information of the user is obtained, and automatic reply messages are respectively set for different presence information, so that the automatic reply messages are associated with the presence information of the user, and when a state of the user changes, the automatic reply messages are not required to be reset, thereby providing convenience for the user.
US08499048B2 Indexing and organizing messages in a messaging system using social network information
A messaging system receives a message that is intended for a recipient, who is a user of a social networking system. An object associated with the message is identified based on the message content and/or metadata associated with the message. The messaging system accesses a social networking system database to obtain social information about a relationship between the recipient and the identified object. The message is then indexed using the social information, wherein an entry for the message is stored in a message index based on the social information. This process may be repeated for each received message, and multiple different message indexes may be generated for received messages to track different types of social information. A user interface for viewing messages uses the message index to organize the messages, such as to filter, categorize, and/or sort the messages in the display.
US08499042B2 System for managing e-mail traffic
According to a first embodiment of the invention, if an e-mail sender attempts to make too many connections within a predetermined period of time, the excess connections are automatically rejected. According to a second embodiment of the invention, an agreement is established between an e-mail sender and an e-mail recipient that states when the sender may send e-mail messages to the recipient. According to a third embodiment of the invention, trend data reflecting an amount of e-mail sent by a sender is collected. The trend data can be used to establish a rate limit for the sender. According to a fourth embodiment of the invention, separate rate limits are established for authenticated and unauthenticated mail from addresses. According to a fifth embodiment of the invention, a sender may have a rate at which their e-mail is transmitted reduced if they exceed predetermined rate limits.
US08499035B2 Methods, systems and computer readable media for providing session initiation protocol (SIP) event watcher entity information in a communications network
Methods, systems, and computer readable media system for collecting and distributing session initiation protocol (SIP) event watcher entity subscription information in a communications network are disclosed. According to one aspect, a system includes one or more notifier servers for receiving subscription requests for SIP event information associated with a plurality of watched entities from a plurality of watcher entities. The system further includes a watcher information (WINFO) server for receiving, from the notifier servers, SIP event subscription information that includes, for each watcher entity, an association between the watcher entity to each of the watched entities in which a subscription for SIP event information was requested by the watcher entity, for storing the SIP event subscription information in the WINFO server, for receiving, from one of the watched entities, a request for watcher entity subscription information associated with the requesting watched entity from one of the watched entities, and for accessing the SIP event subscription information to locate the watcher entity subscription information associated with the requesting watched entity.
US08499034B2 Methods and apparatus to transmit a request to server via domain system forwarding
Disclosed example methods include receiving in a gateway a request to connect to a domain name from a client coupled to the gateway, selecting a first domain name system server corresponding to the domain name based on a rule linking the first domain name system server to the domain name, adding location information to the request in the gateway, the location information to be used by the first domain name system server to select a second domain name system server associated with the domain name, and transmitting the request including the location information to the selected first domain name system server.
US08499031B1 Markup language messaging service for secure access by edge applications
A method and corresponding system for secure messaging between an edge application and internal business process. The method includes converting a client request in an object state into a network message, e.g., a markup language message, based on a data definition. A network connection is opened and the network message is transmitted from the edge application to a messaging application associated with the internal business processes, which maps the network message is mapped to one of the business processed based on the type of data object or object state of the network message. The network message is converted back to its original state using the data definition, and the converted network message is passed to the mapped business process for processing to create a response or response data object. The mapping step typically includes reading a configuration file that defines pairings between data object types and business objects.
US08499025B2 Apparatus for enhancing performance of a parallel processing environment, and associated methods
Parallel Processing Communication Accelerator (PPCA) systems and methods for enhancing performance of a Parallel Processing Environment (PPE). In an embodiment, a Message Passing Interface (MPI) devolver enabled PPCA is in communication with the PPE and a host node. The host node executes at least a parallel processing application and an MPI process. The MPI devolver communicates with the MPI process and the PPE to improve the performance of the PPE by offloading MPI process functionality to the PPCA. Offloading MPI processing to the PPCA frees the host node for other processing tasks, for example, executing the parallel processing application, thereby improving the performance of the PPE.
US08499015B2 Data entry method and apparatus
On a portable electronic device, multiple-position toggle button data entry keys are provided within the data entry keypad. A controller detects activation of each multiple-position toggle button data entry key on the keypad by a user, and also detects the number of times the data entry key is activated. The controller then accesses a key map in memory to determine the letter or numeric digit selected by the user. All letters and numbers represented on the communication device may be activated with no more than two depressions or activations of a corresponding toggle button.
US08499011B2 Encoding method and apparatus and decoding method and apparatus
The disclosed embodiments relate to a multimedia data encoding/decoding method and apparatus. In some aspects, a decoding method comprises receiving multimedia data which comprises a media area including a video data area and an audio data area, a media information area including a video track area and an audio track area respectively corresponding to the video data area and the audio data area respectively, and a menu description area including description data for displaying a menu that provides an interface between a user and media data in the media area. The media information area further comprises segment metadata for searching segments of the media data included in the media area. The segment metadata having information regarding one or more segment groups which the segments are classified into, and the media information area and the menu description area are incorporated into a single file.
US08499007B2 Information processing system, first information processing apparatus, second information processing apparatus, and third information processing apparatus
The present invention provides an information processing system, including: a second non-existence case process information storage portion in which a pair of an object identifier and a non-existence case process identifier for identifying a process that is executed in a case where an object identified with the object identifier does not exist can be stored; a second receiving portion that receives result information transmitted by a first information processing apparatus; a second processing portion that executes the process identified with the non-existence case process identifier corresponding to the object identifier of the object, in a case where the result information received by the second receiving portion is information to the effect that the object does not exist; and a second output portion that outputs the result information, in a case where the result information is not information to the effect that the object does not exist.
US08498993B2 Information acquiring apparatus, information acquiring program, recording medium, information acquiring method and information acquiring system
There is provided an information acquiring apparatus which, when the user searches for information using a plurality of keywords, can facilitate an operation of selecting a plurality of keywords by means of a touch panel and improve the operability. The information acquiring apparatus makes an input means (109) integrated with a display means display a plurality of first objects (521) respectively corresponding to a plurality of keywords, and move positions of part or all of the first objects in response to the user's operation of the input means and display the first objects, when a plurality of first objects contact based on that the positions of at least part of a plurality of displayed first objects are moved and at least part of the first objects are displayed, determines a keyword corresponding to each contacting first object as a search key, and acquires search result information searched in either an external information search apparatus or inner information searching means based on the determined search key.
US08498989B2 Mass analysis data processing method and mass spectrometer using the same
Provided is a method for quickly obtaining an intensity value at a desired m/z value in a compressed data obtained by run-length encoding of a mass analysis data. An index is created by pairing either the start position of a section where zero-intensity consecutively occurs two or more times in an array of an original spectrum data, or the start position of a sequence of data having significant intensity values in an array of the original spectrum data, with the corresponding position in an array of a compressed data. This index is stored separate from the compressed data. The creation of the index does not affect the array of the compressed data. Therefore, the data can be decompressed even by a data processing system that does not use the index. The index helps to quickly locate a compressed data corresponding to the desired m/z and obtain the necessary intensity value.
US08498982B1 Noise reduction for content matching analysis results for protectable content
A system and method (a “utility”) is provided for improving the accuracy of a content matching analysis that identifies a composition of an item of protectable content of a user. The item of protectable content may include a portion of source code or object code, individual or bundled source code or object code files, binary code files, directory structures and/or trees, open source software projects or packages, and/or proprietary software applications or packages. The utility involves storing a number of items of comparison content on a storage structure, receiving an item of user content at a computer-based content exchange, and comparing the item of user content to the items of comparison content to determine, from among the items of comparison content, one or more potential matches that each include a matched portion that is similar to a portion of the item of user content. The utility further includes selecting a noise reduction technique from a number of noise reduction techniques available to the content exchange and applying the noise reduction technique to eliminate noise and/or false positives (e.g., one or more redundant matches and/or erroneously identified matches) from the potential matches.
US08498972B2 String and sub-string searching using inverted indexes
Inverted indexes for terms and for term separators are separately provided to minimize data redundancy. Search queries are parsed to identify terms and term separators, if any, and the corresponding inverted indexes are searched for responsive documents. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also described.
US08498970B2 File processing device and method
A file processing device and a method are provided. The method includes: providing a storage unit for storing a connection date when an exterior storage device is connected to a file processing device; retrieving a last connection date of the exterior storage device; selecting the exterior storage device for files or file folders whose date information is later than the last connection date; and copying and saving the selected files or file folder to the file processing device.
US08498968B2 Method and apparatus for managing and archiving performance information relating to storage system
A data management and archive method and apparatus, for implementation in an automated system to monitor and manage status, performance and configuration data for networked storage components. Analysis and cross-correlation of data related to the storage components can be done individually, collectively and/or comparatively. A collection manager component of a workload analyzer is implemented to start and stop data collection. The collection manager includes a command and control module that coordinates requests of data from at least one collection agent configured on at least one host connected to the storage component(s). The collection manager manages collection of data and effects file transfer of collected data according to a user specified policy, and maintains status of the data collected. The user specified policy allows the user to specify data collection “shifts” (i.e. periodicity).
US08498966B1 Systems and methods for adaptively performing backup operations
A computer-implemented method for adaptively performing backup operations may include 1) identifying a storage system used for storage by at least one application, 2) identifying a request to perform a backup operation including at least one input/output operation on the storage system, 3) determining that an input/output capacity of the storage system has fallen below a predetermined threshold, and 4) delaying the input/output operation in response to determining that the input/output capacity of the storage system has fallen below the predetermined threshold. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.
US08498963B2 Method and system for data synchronization
A method, system and computer program product for performing data synchronization by a terminal device, including receiving compatibility information between different versions of data schemas; performing compatibility verification on data by utilizing the received compatibility information between different versions of data schemas; and sending data that successfully passes through compatibility verification.
US08498957B2 Optimal multi-factor evaluation in computing systems
Techniques are disclosed for optimally scheduling computations that involve multiple factors, the cost of evaluations and probabilities of success of which are known. For example, a methodology is provided for determining an optimal schedule of a multi-factor test in sub-quadratic time. While the methodology has wide ranging application, we illustrate a particular applicability to a security application involving multi-factor authentication in a cloud computing environment, as well as applicability to the contact center agent scheduling.
US08498945B1 Claim evaluation methods, systems, products, and data-structures
A method for evaluating a potential claim using a computerized platform is presented. The method comprises the steps of receiving into the computerized platform information relating to a potential claim. Specifically, that information relates to a value of the potential claim, a likelihood of success of the potential claim, and a cost of asserting the potential claim. The method further comprises the steps of calculating an estimated claim valuation based upon the information relating to a potential claim using the computerized platform, and presenting that estimated claim valuation to a user.
US08498936B2 One card system
This invention relates to a novel system which includes a new device (the DEVICE) and a new business process (the PROCESS) that combines multiple cards (for both financial and non-financial transactions) into one card in a secured manner.
US08498931B2 Computer-implemented risk evaluation systems and methods
Systems and methods are provided for evaluating risks associated with alternative strategies for assessing an entity with respect to a predetermined objective. A system includes an action table that contains a plurality of possible actions that can be taken with respect to the predetermined objective for various entity profiles. One or more statistical data stores are configured to contain risk amounts associated with each entity profile, where the one or more statistical data stores are configured to contain inferred percentage distribution of applicants associated with each entity profile. One or more profile identification data stores contain entity identification information for use in determining an action for the entity. One or more improvement data stores provide an indication in the improvement in risk based upon a change in one or more characteristics for an entity profile.
US08498929B2 System, method and computer program storage device for detecting short sale fraud
A short sale monitoring system, method and computer program product assist in identifying potential fraudulent activity associated with short sale real estate transactions. A processing circuit receives property identification information for a property, a short sale notification regarding a short sale of the property, and a short sale price. The processing circuit then queries a database of loan records to identify a corresponding loan application for the property. The loan application is at least one of a pending loan application and a closed loan application for the property. The processing circuit then generates a notice when (1) the short sale price is less than a predetermined amount with respect to a price included in the loan application, and (2) a date of the loan application is within a predetermined time of a closing date of the short sale.
US08498925B2 Public offering risk management
The present invention provides an auction system that allows IPO sales to be offered in an open and transparent manner, wherein, a certain percentage (up to 100%) of shares in an IPO can be offered to qualified bidders at a “buy now” pre-auction price, set by an issuer and/or underwriter. Investors can be allowed to “bid some shares out of the auction process” and thus guarantee those investors' allocation while also allowing bidders to participate in an open auction for other shares. Shares of stock to be offered in an IPO can include a subset of pre-auction price shares and a subset of auction price shares. The pre-auction price shares are offered to pre-auction bidders at a pre-auction price, and auction shares are generally sold to the highest bidder. Pre-auction sales can serve as a catalyst for generating enthusiasm for an associated IPO auction.
US08498924B2 Managing risk associated with betting transactions
A method of providing an account is provided. The method includes receiving identification information associated with a user during a communication session and communicating a request for credit information, the request including at least a portion of the identification information. The requested credit information is received and an account is approved and opened based at least on the received credit information. During the communication session, a request made using the opened account to place a first order to trade a first product is received. A risk value for the first order is determined. One or more current balances for the account are also determined. The method further includes determining whether to approve the first order based at least on the risk value determined for the first order and one or more of the current balances for the account, and if the first order is approved, placing the first order.
US08498917B2 Systems and methods for providing migration and performance matrices
Systems and methods are provided for computing migration and performance matrices. The matrices may provide risk and performance data, as well as different views on the data useful for making and monitoring investment decisions. The migration and performance matrices may bring together data to reflect information on the likelihood that a rated entity will change its current rating within a given time period, information reflecting retention rates, and information describing the effect of changed exchanged rates on different data, for example.
US08498916B2 Device, system, and method of automatic financial-instrument management
Devices, systems, and methods of automatic Financial-Instrument (FI) management. In some embodiments, a system includes, a memory having stored thereon financial-instrument-based (FI-based) management instructions; and a processor to execute the FI-based management instructions resulting in a FI-based management application, wherein the FI-based management application may receive portfolio data corresponding to a plurality of financial-instrument portfolios associated with a plurality of clients, wherein the FI-based management application may automatically identify one or more portfolios of the plurality of portfolios satisfying at least one criterion, wherein, for each identified portfolio, the FI-based management application may receive client-specific management data corresponding to a client associated with the identified portfolio, wherein the client-specific management data includes at least client-specific destination information defining at least one destination, and wherein, for each identified portfolio, the FI-based management application may automatically communicate portfolio-related data corresponding to the identified portfolio to the destination defined by the management data.
US08498915B2 Data processing framework for financial services
A data processing framework for financial services that supports the automated development and delivery of financial service products to a plurality of customers.
US08498905B2 Quality assurance in a delivery report
A method includes capturing an image of a flower arrangement at a location of a filling florist and sending a report from the filling florist to a sending florist, the report including the image of the arrangement and an order number. A computer is controlled to capture an image of a flower arrangement at a location of a filling florist, and to send a report from the filling florist to a sending florist. The report includes the image of the arrangement and an order number. A computer readable medium has program modules to control a computer. The computer is controlled to capture an image of a flower arrangement at a location of a filling florist, and to send a report from the filling florist to a sending florist. The report including the image of the arrangement and an order number.
US08498896B2 Service discovery in a network of automatic product/service dispensing machines
A method, system, and computer program product for providing products to a user via an automated product dispensing machine is provided. In once embodiment, an automatic product dispensing machine in a micronetwork of proximally located diverse automatic product dispensing machines receives a request for an item. Responsive to a determination that the item is unavailable at a current automatic product dispensing machine, the automatic product dispensing machine provides a user with an alternative redemption product, such as, for example, a coupon that may be redeemed at another automatic product dispensing machine or at a nearby store.
US08498894B2 Method and apparatus for distributing tickets over a wide area network
When an event undersells, the event promoter contacts a service provider such as Poundhouse either via phone, fax or e-mail, alerting us that they would like to “paper the house,” or fill the hall with individuals who might not otherwise go. Poundhouse then e-mails its users that an opportunity to go to a specific event is available and that they need to enter to win tickets. Users follow the link in the e-mail or come to the Web site and enter the contest by typing in their e-mail address and password. At a pre-specified time, the contest is automatically closed and “winners” are notified, via e-mail, that they won tickets to that event. The number of tickets made available to Poundhouse by the event promoter determines the number of winners. A guest list is compiled and faxed and/or e-mailed to the event promoter. Winning individuals each get to bring a single guest.
US08498893B2 Systems and methods for providing distributed recursive voting
A recursive voting method: creating an original initiative which requires a vote response, transmitting the original initiative to first tier recipient(s); transmitting the initiative by at least one first tier recipient to at least one second tier recipient to provide selected second tier recipients; receiving by each first tier recipient a tabulation of vote responses from the selected second tier recipients to provide a second tier vote tabulation; providing a first tier vote tabulation for each first tier recipient according to the second tier vote tabulation and a vote response from the first tier recipient; sending a first tier vote tabulation for each first tier recipient to the creator of the original initiative to provide an originator total tabulation, submitting a petition according to the originator total tabulation, wherein a preponderance of support responses is needed for the initiative to be submitted for petition; transmitting a vote update.
US08498892B1 Automated validation of results of human performance of tasks
Techniques are described for facilitating automated validation of results of performance of tasks. In some situations, task requesters may specify various automated validation criteria for tasks that they submit, and those specified validation criteria may automatically be used to determine whether results of performance of those tasks by task performers are validated. To facilitate such automated validation, predefined types of validation criteria may be provided that a user may select and/or configure. The outcome of automated validation of results may be used in various ways, such as to indicate when results have been validated and/or have not been validated, to determine whether to provide results to a task requester (e.g., if results are not provided unless they have been validated, or if results that fail validation are corrected or replaced with results that pass validation) and/or to compensate task performers for providing the results.
US08498889B1 Product configuration modeling and optimization
A computerized system and related methods of identifying an optimum set of product configurations from a plurality of possible product configurations, wherein each product configuration has a plurality of features and each feature has a plurality of options, includes the steps of representing each of the possible product configurations as an ordered set or array of at least n-dimensions, each dimension of the array representing a predetermined one of the features, identifying a subset of valid product configurations, identifying which valid configurations are captured by other configurations through upgrades, conversions, or acceptance of different options, defining and solving an optimization model to identify the optimum set of valid product configurations based on a desired objective, such as to maximize profit, minimize cost, or maximizing coverage of customer demand, and then presenting the optimum set of valid product configurations that satisfy the desired objective.
US08498888B1 Cost-based fulfillment tie-breaking
Systems and methods for cost-based fulfillment tie breaking are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method may include receiving an indication of an order for an item stocked in a plurality of fulfillment centers, where a difference between a cost of fulfilling the order with one of the plurality of fulfillment centers and a cost of fulfilling the order with another one of the plurality of fulfillment centers is within a specified amount. The method may also include selecting a given one of the plurality of fulfillment centers to fulfill the order based, at least in part, upon expected costs corresponding to inventory positions that would result from fulfilling the order with each of the plurality of fulfillment centers.
US08498880B2 Shared protocol statements
Computerized methods and systems for creating and documenting protocol orders in a molecular diagnostic laboratory environment are provided. Utilizing the methods and systems described herein, protocol statements may require values to be entered in association therewith prior to permitting access to subsequent protocol orders. Accordingly, more accurate test runs and, consequently, more accurate test results, may be achieved. Additionally, as values associated with protocol statements are electronically captured, in accordance with embodiments hereof, such values may be searched to evaluate trends or identify protocol orders and/or results that may be affected by a later discovered error or the like.
US08498872B2 Filtering transcriptions of utterances
Audio data that includes speech may be transcribed by a speech recognition engine to generate speech recognition results, such as a transcription. One or more filters may be selected and applied to the speech recognition results to generate filtered speech recognition results. The one or more filters may be selected based at least in part on a characteristic of the speech recognition results, a characteristic of the audio data, or any other characteristic.
US08498866B2 Systems and methods for multiple language document narration
Disclosed are techniques and systems to provide a narration of a text in multiple different languages where the portions of the text narrated using the different voices associated with different languages are selected by a user.
US08498865B1 Speech recognition system and method using group call statistics
An enhanced speech recognition system and method are provided that may be used with a voice recognition wireless communication system. The enhanced speech recognition system and method take advantage of group to group calling statistics to improve the recognition of names by the speech recognition system.
US08498861B2 Apparatus and method for concealing frame erasure and voice decoding apparatus and method using the same
An apparatus and method for concealing frame erasure and a voice decoding apparatus and method using the same. The frame erasure concealment apparatus includes: a parameter extraction unit determining whether there is an erased frame in a voice packet, and extracting an excitement signal parameter and a line spectrum pair parameter of a previous good frame; and an erasure frame concealment unit, if there is an erased frame, restoring the excitement signal and line spectrum pair parameter of the erased frame by using a regression analysis from the excitement signal and line spectrum pair parameter of the previous good frame. According to the method and apparatus, by predicting and restoring the parameter of the erased frame through the regression analysis, the quality of the restored voice signal can be enhanced and the algorithm can be simplified.
US08498856B2 Simulation method, system and program
A simulation system having multiple peripherals that communicate with each other. The system includes a weighted graph with weights set as communication times. The peripherals are represented as nodes and connection paths are represented as edges. Among the communication times in the loop, the minimum time is set as first synchronization timing. Timing with an acceptable delay added is set as second synchronization timing. Timing set by a user to be longer than the first and second timings is set as third synchronization timing. The third synchronization timing is used in a portion where the timing is usable, thus synchronizing the peripherals at the longest possible synchronization timing.
US08498854B2 Enabling end-to-end testing of applications across networks
End-to-end testing of applications across networks is enabled. To test the application and the infrastructure subsystems, an application server connected to the network contains an application under test. A response simulator is connected to the other end of the network. A test module is accessible to the application and to the simulator and contains a test message to be transmitted to the simulator, and an expected response message from the simulator. The application transmits each test message and compares a response message from the simulator to an expected response message. The simulator obtains the response to each test message from the test module.
US08498851B2 Method for evaluation of absorption behavior of absorbent articles
An improved method and computer system is provided, for analyzing the two- or three-dimensional movement of a fluid in an absorbent article that comprises fluid-swellable composite material, which comprises a fluid-swellable solid material, and that comprises void spaces in the fluid-swellable composite material, the fluid-swellable composite material being defined by a virtual two-dimensional or three-dimensional mesh, to determine the performance or property of at least one feature of the fluid-swellable composite material thereof, or the absorbent article, the method comprising: inputting one or more properties for the fluid-swellable (composite) material into a model and evaluating this to determine the performance of a feature of the absorbent article or fluid-swellable composite material thereof, the virtual model.
US08498843B2 Methods for determining if boundary distance constraints between shapes are satisfied
This disclosure describes methods for determining if arrangements of shapes satisfy boundary distance constraints among those shapes. The first embodiment includes constructing 110 a function which is an exact or approximate analytical representation of the constraint between two shapes. Further, this embodiment includes evaluating 120 the function constructed in 110 to determine if the constraint between the two shapes is exactly or approximately satisfied.The second embodiment includes constructing 210 a function which is an exact or approximate analytical representation of the constraint between two shapes. In addition, this embodiment includes assigning 215 values to variables and/or parameters of the function constructed in 210. Further, this embodiment includes evaluating 220 the function constructed in 210 using the assignments of 215 to determine if the constraint between the two shapes is exactly or approximately satisfied.
US08498842B2 System and method for chaining graphical curves
A CAD system and corresponding method and computer program product. A method includes receiving a set of intersecting curves and receiving a selection of a source curve and a destination curve from the set of intersecting curves. The method includes receiving a selection intent rule and calculating a first chain of curves that includes the source curve, through the set of intersecting curves according to the selection intent rule. The method includes storing a selected path, the selected path being a chain of curves between the source curve and the destination curve with a minimum number of deviations from the selection intent rule.
US08498839B2 Position determination system, transmission device and reception device, and position determination method
A moving body includes a transmission device which simultaneously sends out a trigger signal and an ultrasonic signal modulated by pseudo random sequence data, and a reception device which detects a position of the moving body. The reception device includes two ultrasonic reception units The reception device includes a unit which calculates a correlation value between a waveform of the ultrasonic signal and a modulation reference waveform of a pseudo random sequence data assigned to the moving body The reception device includes a unit which calculates a time of propagation of the ultrasonic to arrive at the two ultrasonic reception units from a time point of reception of the trigger signal and a time point of detection of a first peak of the correlation value, and a unit which calculates a position of the moving body based on the ultrasonic propagation time and an interval length between the ultrasonic reception units.
US08498837B2 Paramagnetism-based remote temperature measurement method for magnetic nanoparticle
The invention discloses a paramagnetism-based remote temperature measurement method for magnetic nanoparticles, and the method comprises: applying multiple times of excited magnetic fields on the area of a magnetic nano sample, constructing an equation group between the different excited magnetic fields and corresponding magnetic susceptibilities according to the Langevin's paramagnetic theorem, and obtaining the information of temperature and sample concentration via the equation group. The invention is capable of more precisely and more quickly detecting the temperature of an object, and especially applicable for the detection of thermal motion at bio-molecular level. Experiments indicate the measurement error is less than 0.56K.
US08498835B2 Apparatus for monitoring a system with time in space and method therefor
A system in which a fluid flows characterized by a change with time in space. A preselected place in the system is monitored to collect data at two or more time points correlated to a system event. The data is indicative of a system parameter that varies with time as a function of at least two variables related to system wash-in and wash-out behavior. To select time points a calibration map is calculated using color hue indicative of wash-out and color intensity indicative of wash-in. A color coded output map is developed. The calibration map, the color coded output map and image are novel implementations.
US08498832B2 Method and device for assessing and monitoring voltage security in a power system
Provided is a method and device for assessing and monitoring voltage security in a power system. More specifically, a method and device for assessing and monitoring the value of reactive power load when changes in reactive power outputs of at least some of the generators in the electrical power system cause all of the generators in the system to reach the combined operating limit of their reactive power output. In response thereto, the method and device are further adapted to initiate suitable control measures such as switching of transformer banks and/or capacitor/reactor banks, as well as shedding loads whenever necessary to mitigate an impending voltage stability problem.
US08498830B2 Testing of a battery of a computing device
Example embodiments relate to testing of a battery of a computing device. In example embodiments, a battery test may include determining whether charge control is available for a battery and reading battery data from the battery based on whether charge control is available for the battery. In addition, in example embodiments, the battery test may include determining whether the battery should be replaced based on the battery data.
US08498829B2 Pressure monitoring circuits and methods
In order to provide better resolution over a wider pressure range the previously available, the techniques disclosed herein set an output precision of an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) based on a control signal provided by a control element. The control signal sets the output precision of the ADC to a first level to measure an ambient pressure within a first pressure range; and signal sets the output precision of the ADC to a second level to measure an ambient pressure within a second pressure range.
US08498827B2 Combining redundant inertial sensors to create a virtual sensor output
Included are embodiments for determining an inertial quantity. One embodiment of a method includes combining readings from a plurality of inertial sensors to produce an estimate of the value of an inertial quantity in a manner that is fault-tolerant, more accurate than traditional sensor arrangements, and able to handle non-linear and non-Gaussian systems. Embodiments of a method also include utilizing a Monte Carlo estimation-based inference system to adaptively combine the inertial sensor outputs into a fault-tolerant highly-accurate inertial quantity estimate, an axis-reversed-paired physical arrangement of inertial sensors to minimize effects of environmental and process noise, and cross-associating sensors to ensure good sensor associations and reduce the effects of sample impoverishment.
US08498823B2 High-throughput ensemble-based docking and elucidation of 3-dimensional structural conformations of flexible biomolecular targets
Methods for generating putative ligand structures capable of altering the activity of a target effector molecule comprise: constructing an elongated monomer of the target effector molecule; constructing a three dimensional model of the target effector molecule under the influence of elongation using empirical three dimensional data, the model including a conformation revealing the binding portion of the target effector molecule to a putative ligand structure; generating a plurality of computational models of the target effector molecule; filtering the plurality of computational models against the three dimensional model created experimentally using a reiterative simulation analysis algorithm operable to identify and select a plurality of computational models having a root-mean square deviation below a predetermined threshold when compared to the three dimensional model of the target effector molecule; screening a plurality of ligands to rank the binding strength of each ligand with the plurality of computational models selected and selecting one or more ligands based on the ranking.
US08498812B2 Stylized procedural modeling for 3D navigation
A method of displaying a navigation map includes determining a route of a vehicle. A two-dimensional footprint of a building disposed within a geographic area is received within the vehicle. The geographic area includes the route of the vehicle. Attribute information associated with the building is received. The attribute information is received within the vehicle. A visual representation of the building is rendered based upon the two-dimensional footprint and the attribute information.
US08498811B2 Method and device for indoor positioning
The present invention relates to a method for positioning a user inside a building, wherein the user has a user carried device (100) and the user carried device (100) is provided with a direction sensor (110) and a movement sensor (110). The method comprises the steps of providing the user carried device with a vector map (220) of the building, wherein the vector map (220) comprises vectors and nodes representing possible movement paths for the user in the building; determining a starting point in the vector map representing a first position of the user; receiving movement information from the movement sensor (110) regarding movement of the user in the building; receiving direction information from the direction sensor (110) regarding the direction of the movement of the user; and estimating a new position of the user based on the vector map, the movement information and the direction information.
US08498810B2 System for transferring information for persons in the area of an airport, method for transferring information and a personal end device
A system for transferring information for at least one person in the area of an airport, comprising a) at least one personal end device which can be worn by the at least one person, b) a detection means for detecting the current spatial position of the at least one person in the area of the airport, c) a control means for determining at least one target time for a station located along the path to a flight gate assigned to the at least one person and/or for determining a path of the at least one person from a pre-determined position to the flight gate assigned to the person.
US08498808B2 Method and apparatus for hybrid routing using breadcrumb paths
A method and apparatus for routing using a positioning device and a map having a plurality of segments; generating a first route from a first location to a second location; generating signals to provide directions along the first route using positioning information from the positioning device; detecting that the positioning device is off-route at a third location, the third location being adjacent to the first route; generating a second route by tracking the position of the positioning device from the third location to to a fourth location, and, in some cases, storing the second route for use in route generation.
US08498803B2 Arrangement and method for air traffic management and/or flight control of aircraft
The invention relates to an air traffic control of aircraft. At least one transmission station in an aircraft transmits a broadcast signal received by at least one receiving station and further transmits at least a part of the data contained in the broadcast signal to a central station or other organizations. At least part of the receiving stations are designed as satellite receiving stations, wherein the broadcast signal transmitted by the at least one transmission station to be secured is received by at least one of the satellite receiving stations and at least part of the data contained in the broadcast signal is further transmitted via a radio transmission route to a satellite ground control station and further to the air traffic control central station or another organization.
US08498797B2 Control apparatus and control method for internal combustion engine
A control apparatus for an internal combustion engine is employed for a multi-cylinder internal combustion engine. The control apparatus includes a variable valve operating mechanism which changes a valve characteristic of an engine valve; a valve stop mechanism which stops opening/closing of the engine valve in at least one cylinder; and a controller which executes a variable valve control that makes an actual value of the valve characteristic match a target value by executing a hydraulic pressure control for the variable valve operating mechanism, and which operates the valve stop mechanism so that a reduced-cylinder operation is performed when an engine operating state is in a preset reduced-cylinder operation region. If it is determined that a pressure of hydraulic fluid supplied to the variable valve operating mechanism satisfies a preset condition when the engine operating state is in the reduced-cylinder operation region, the controller prohibits the variable valve control.
US08498795B2 Method and system for controlling a vehicle cruise control
A method and cruise control system for controlling a vehicle cruise control includes driving the vehicle with the cruise control active and set to maintain a vehicle set target speed, and registering a current vehicle condition, which includes at least a current vehicle position, a currently engaged gear ratio, available gear ratios, current vehicle speed, available maximum propulsion torque and road topography of coming travelling road comprising a next coming uphill slope. Based on the current vehicle condition a downshift is predicted at a coming vehicle position in the coming uphill slope due to vehicle speed decrease and at least one activity is selected which results in that the downshift can be postponed or avoided. The cruise control is controlled according to the selected activity in order to postpone or avoid, for example a downshift from a direct gear and thereby saves fuel.
US08498794B2 Anti-skid control apparatus configured to compensate for hydraulic pressure fluctuations
An anti-skid control apparatus comprises an anti-skid control means for controlling a pressure reducing valve and a pressure increasing valve, each of which operated for a target wheel when an anti-skid condition is established for the target wheel, the pressure increasing valve controlled in order to linearly change a pressure difference, an estimating means for estimating an occurrence of a factor by which the brake hydraulic pressure is fluctuated at the conduit connecting the master cylinder to the pressure increasing valve for the target wheel while the pressure increasing valve is controlled for the target wheel, and an output means for generating an output for maintaining the pressure difference during a predetermining time period in which the pressure increasing valve is controlled, when the occurrence of the factor is estimated.
US08498793B1 Accelerometer using acceleration
An altimeter using speed, forward acceleration and yaw angle rate to measure altitude. The accuracy of the measurement may be improved by compensating for a position offset of an accelerometer; Kalman filtering with an external altitude measurement; and/or compensating for an accelerometer bias. The accelerometer bias may be calculated based on a last incline angle before a dormant time period and/or by Kalman filtering.
US08498784B2 Method for estimating the suspension stroke of a vehicle and apparatus implementing the same
The present invention refers to a method for estimating the suspension stroke of a vehicle comprising the steps consisting of: a) determining a variability law (10) that associates the stroke of the suspension with the pressure inside a shock absorber of the same, based on experimental data; b) estimating the suspension stroke value related to a measured pressure value, based on the variability law (10) identified in step (a); c) detecting/obtaining the longitudinal vehicle dynamics; d) recalibrating (30) the variability law (10) identified in step a), based on the longitudinal vehicle dynamics detected/obtained in step c). The present invention also refers to an apparatus for implementing the estimation method of the suspension stroke of a vehicle according to the invention.
US08498781B2 Methods and motor computer program products for motor control by the implementation of damping for over-speed conditions
A method for controlling the response of an electric steering system by implementing damping for over-speed conditions is disclosed. The method includes the step of determining the velocity of an electric motor within the electric steering system, and determining a voltage limit value, wherein the voltage limit value is calculated as a function of the velocity of the electric motor. The method further includes the step of associating the voltage limit value with a motor voltage command in order to produce a limited voltage command, and applying the limited voltage command to the motor in order to provide a braking torque to the motor.
US08498775B2 Linear and non-linear identification of the longitudinal tire-road friction coefficient
A method of estimating a tire-road friction coefficient includes determining when the slope of a tire characteristic curve relating a utilized longitudinal friction of a tire to longitudinal slip of the tire is linear and non-linear. When the slope of the tire characteristic curve is linear, then the tire-road friction coefficient is estimated by correlating the slope of the tire characteristic curve to the tire-road friction coefficient. When the slope of the tire characteristic curve is non-linear, indicating that the tire is near or at saturation, then the tire-road friction coefficient is estimated by calculating a current utilized longitudinal friction of the tire.
US08498769B2 Method of short-term rejoining of a flight plan by radar guidance of an aircraft
Method of formulating a lateral flight trajectory for the rejoining by an aircraft (200) of a trajectory of a flight plan (910) comprising a plurality of waypoints (911, 912, 913), the aircraft (200) flying outside of the flight plan (910) and according to a divergent track with respect to the trajectory of the flight plan (210), characterized in that the method: determines a waypoint (913) of the flight plan for the rejoining, defined as the first waypoint (913) of the flight plan included in a capture zone defined by the flight plan trajectory situated downstream of the point of intersection between the straight line defined by an angle (α) with the perpendicular to the track of the aircraft and the trajectory of the flight plan, formulates the optimal lateral flight trajectory for a rejoining by the aircraft (200) at the determined waypoint. Advantageously, the flight trajectory formulation method allows the application of speed and/or altitude constraints to the aircraft (200) taking into account speed and/or altitude constraints imposed along the trajectory of the flight plan (910).
US08498765B2 Control device
A control device configured with a first control portion controls an engagement pressure of a first engagement device to make a rotational speed of the input member equal to a predetermined rotational speed during the specific electric power generation control. A second control portion controls an engagement pressure of the second engagement device in such a manner as to make a transfer torque capacity of the second engagement device equal to a predetermined transfer torque capacity during the specific electric power generation control. Another control portion determines a target rotational speed in such a manner as to maintain a state in which an electric power generation amount achieved by the rotating electrical machine coincides with a predetermined target electric power generation amount, in accordance with a magnitude of a differential torque as a difference between a torque transmitted via the first engagement device.
US08498764B2 Electric vehicle and method of controlling the same
An electric vehicle and a method of controlling the electric vehicle are disclosed. In one embodiment, the electric vehicle includes i) a battery configured to provide electric energy to the motor, ii) a remaining energy-amount detector configured to detect a remaining energy-amount of the battery and iii) a manipulation unit configured to receive target information from a user. The vehicle also includes a guide information generator configured to generate driving guide information based at least in part on the remaining energy-amount of the battery and the target information and a display unit configured to display the driving guide information.
US08498760B2 System and method for simultaneously processing telemetry data
According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a method for use in telemetry processing includes receiving telemetry data originating from a satellite, such that the telemetry data comprises a plurality of data segments. The method includes processing the plurality of data segments simultaneously and transmitting a signal to the satellite, in response to the processing, for effecting a change in the direction of the satellite.
US08498758B1 ILS-based altitude data generation system, device, and method
Present novel and non-trivial system, device, and method for generating altitude data and/or height data are disclosed. A processor receives navigation data from an external source such as a global positioning system (“GPS”); receives navigation data from multiple internal sources; receives object data representative of terrain or surface feature elevation; determines an instant measurement of aircraft altitude as a function of these inputs; and generates aircraft altitude data responsive to such determination. In an additional embodiment, the processor receives reference point data representative of the elevation of the stationary reference point (e.g., a landing threshold point); determines an instant measurement of aircraft height as a function of this input and the instant measurement of aircraft altitude; and generates aircraft height data responsive to such determination.
US08498748B2 Air conditioning control system
According to an embodiment, provided is an air conditioning control system having a remote controller which collectively controls air conditioning facilities respectively provided in multiple buildings through a network. A building monitoring and controlling device is provided in each of the buildings. The building monitoring and controlling device monitors an air conditioning facility in a building where the building monitoring and controlling device itself is installed, and transmits operation data on the air conditioning facility to the remote controller. The remote controller calculates each operation setting value based on each set of operation data, and transmits the calculated operation setting value to the building monitoring and controlling device corresponding to the calculated operation setting value. The building monitoring and controlling device which has received the operation setting value controls the air conditioning facility by transmitting the operation setting value to the air conditioning facility.
US08498735B2 Storage method for digital media items
A storage method for digital media items which optimizes delivery time. An example storage method includes determining transport times for transporting the digital media items from a plurality of primary storage locations within the entertainment kiosk to a dispense aperture of the entertainment kiosk, obtaining expected transaction rates of the digital media items, assigning the digital media items to the primary storage locations such that digital media items having expected transaction rates that are greater than expected transaction rates of other digital media items are stored in primary storage locations having transport times that are shorter than transport times of other primary storage locations.
US08498734B2 Methods and apparatus for managing location information for movable objects
Systems and techniques for locating stored goods. A plurality of fixed contactless identification devices are deployed in an area. Each fixed device exhibits a fixed device identifier that can be read from a distance. Locations within the area are identified through mapping to combinations of fixed device identifiers detected at the location. In addition, a plurality of movable contactless identification devices are associated with goods to be stored and retrieved. Each movable device exhibits a movable device identifier, and movable contactless identification devices are located by identifying a combination of fixed device identifiers received when a movable device identifier is received. The location information may be used independently, or as a supplement to expected location information obtained through other means.
US08498732B2 Detection systems for power equipment
Methods to detect when a human body contacts a predetermined portion of a machine are disclosed. The methods distinguish contact with a person from contact with other materials. The methods are particularly applicable in woodworking equipment such as power saws to detect contact between a person and the blade of the saw. Woodworking machines and memory devices for use in woodworking machines having safety systems designed to detect a dangerous condition between a human and a dangerous portion of the woodworking machine and to trigger some action to mitigate the dangerous condition are also disclosed.
US08498728B2 Remote high-performance modeling system for material joining and material forming
A system and method for creating computerized models of forming processes, wherein forming process parameters including material type, material geometry, forming method, incoming material properties, forming die geometry, forming die thermal management method, lubrication method, forming rate, material constraint conditions, incoming material temperature, and other possible parameters are preselected by a user.
US08498708B2 Integrated system and method for treating disease using cognitive-training and brain stimulation and computerized magnetic photo-electric stimulator (CMPES)
An integrated system and method for treatment of various diseases, including psychiatric, mental and brain disorders, which preferably combines personalized non-invasive neuronal brain stimulation together with appropriate personalized cognitive training, and which iteratively fine-tunes this treatment by monitoring specific cognitive and brain functions in response to the treatment. A novel brain stimulator device and method, Computerized Magnetic Photo-Electric Stimulator (CCMPES), is described, which integrates electromagnetic stimulation with laser stimulation to generate a magnetic photo-electric stimulation.
US08498694B2 Subcutaneous access device and related methods
A subcutaneous access device of the invention comprises: a multi-layered structure capable of use in a medical imaging procedure; a light source for transillumination of a body portion of interest of a patient's body; and an attachment portion for attaching the device to the patient's body in a manner such that the body portion of interest is outwardly exposed on a side of the patient's body opposite the light source. The device facilitates hands-free transillumination of the body portion of interest. Kits for subcutaneous access comprise the subcutaneous access device and a light detector for detecting light emitted from the subcutaneous access device.
US08498693B2 Intracorporeal marker and marker delivery device
An elongated intracorporeal remotely detectable marker includes a core of bioabsorbable fibers. An outer jacket of bioabsorbable fibers is disposed around at least part of the core. In one embodiment, for example, the core has a longitudinal extent and a pair of opposed ends, and the outer jacket is disposed around the longitudinal extent of the core, with the pair of opposed ends being exposed.
US08498689B2 Real time motion information capture in an MRI environment
Systems, methods and articles of manufacture are disclosed for capturing motion information in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment. A light sink in the MRI environment may detect light emitted from a plurality of light sources. Each of the plurality of light sources may emit light of a different frequency. Further, each of the plurality of light sources may be located at a different spatial position in the MRI environment. The detected light may be analyzed. A change in spatial position of the light sink may be computed based on the analysis.
US08498686B2 Mapping catheter with spiral electrode assembly
A mapping catheter adapted for use in a heart chamber, has a distal mapping assembly with a spiral ribbon that is radially expandable and contractable by means of an expander so that electrodes on the ribbon can contact heart wall at a plurality of locations simultaneously. The expander extends the length of the catheter between a control handle and a distal end of the spiral ribbon. The expander can be controlled directly at its proximal end by a user or the expander can be responsive to a puller wire controlled by a user interface on the control handle.
US08498677B2 Outgoing telephone call indication
A mobile phone has a mobile phone housing in which are integrated an actuator and a telephone module. The actuator can vibrate the housing to give a haptic or tactile alert to the user. The actuator is to vibrate in accordance with an input signal. The telephone module activates the input signal during the making of an outgoing call to a destination phone, so that the housing vibrates to alert the user while the destination phone is ringing. In another embodiment, the telephone module signals a display screen integrated in the housing, to show a graphic indicative of the outgoing call. In addition, the telephone module activates the input signal for the backlight of the display screen during the making of the outgoing call, so that the backlight flashes the display screen while the destination phone is ringing. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
US08498673B2 Software output destination handling terminal, system, method, and program for the same
A software output destination handling terminal that handles a display terminal as a software output destination. Data indicating a type of the display terminal is received from the display terminal with which communication connection has been established, and data indicating a usage status of the user is obtained. Data indicating a display rule for a software application to be displayed under the usage status is obtained. In the rule, information designating the display terminal type is associated with information designating a category of the software application to be displayed at the display terminal having the type. Based on the rule, the category of the software application to be displayed at the relevant display terminal is specified. Based on the category, a software application belonging to the category is specified among software applications. Data indicating an instruction to the display terminal to display the software application is generated and sent thereto.
US08498670B2 Mobile terminal and text input method thereof
Disclosed is a method for recognizing a voice and converting it into a text, and more particularly, a method for preferentially voice-recognizing a word starting with a character inputted through a keypad before voice is inputted and converting it into a text, and a mobile terminal implementing such method. The mobile terminal includes a keypad to receive an input of a specific character from a user; a controller to recognize voice input from the user based on words starting with the specific character, and to convert the recognized voice into text; and a display to display the text under a control of the controller.
US08498657B1 User interface update signaling
A system is provided for user interface update signaling. The system includes a user interface that executes on a mobile device, a signaling server, and a background application. The signaling server receives an update from a third party application and sends at least some of the update to the mobile device. The background application executes on the mobile device, receives the at least some of the update, and stores the at least some of the update in a file in the mobile device. The background application also provides a uniform resource locator that specifies where the file is located to the user interface to enable the user interface to display the at least some of the update.
US08498656B2 Electronic device with idle mode antenna switching
Electronic devices may be provided that contain wireless communication circuitry. The wireless communication circuitry may include radio-frequency transceiver circuitry coupled to multiple antennas. An electronic device may alternate between a sleep mode and a wake mode. During wake mode, the electronic device may monitor a paging channel in a wireless network for incoming paging signals. The device may use a selected one of the multiple antennas in monitoring the paging channel. If received signal quality is satisfactory, the device may maintain use of the selected one of the multiple antennas for subsequent wake period monitoring of the paging channel. If received signal quality falls below a threshold or is otherwise indicated to not be satisfactory, the device may switch to use of a different one of the multiple antennas in monitoring the paging channel. Other criteria may also be used in controlling the switching between antennas for paging channel monitoring.
US08498649B2 Method for wireless communication between user equipment and base station in wireless communication system supporting first user equipment that uses single frequency band and second user equipment that uses plurality of frequency bands
A method for wireless communication between user equipments (UEs) and a base station in a wireless communication system that supports a first UE using a single band and a second UE using multiple bands is provided. In the method, UE receives, from the base station, resource allocation information including information regarding a downlink component carrier (CC) and an uplink CC allocated to the UE, receives the allocated downlink CC, and transmits the allocated uplink CC by applying a cell ID thereto. The allocated downlink CC is one of downlink CCs to which different cell IDs are applied, pairs of CCs are predefined by associating uplink CCs respectively with downlink CCs in order to support the first UE. When the allocated downlink and uplink CCs do not belong to the pairs of CCs, the applied cell ID is a cell ID of a downlink CC that is paired with the allocated uplink CC in the predefined pairs of CCs.
US08498646B2 Method and device for transmitting IWS in a wireless communication system
Provided are a method and a device for transmitting an IWS (Inter-Working signal) of a femto base station in a wireless communication system. The femto base station generates a sequence of a preamble including information about a frequency band on which the femto base station operates, maps the IWS including the sequence of the preamble to a plurality of subcarriers on a frequency domain, and transmits the IWS to a terminal through the subcarriers. The IWS can be mapped to the plurality of subcarriers positioned on one equal OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) symbol on a time domain or a plurality of preset RUs (Resource Unit).
US08498640B2 Fast radio access technology detection for cell search
Methods and apparatus are provided for detecting the radio access technology (RAT) employed in a received signal prior to performing a cell search. The RAT detection method may be used to identify the most likely RAT employed for each candidate frequency identified in an initial frequency scan. Once the most likely RAT is identified, the mobile communication device can then attempt synchronization according to the procedures for the most likely RAT. Identifying the RAT prior to the cell search reduces the number of synchronization attempts and, consequently, the time needed to perform the cell search.
US08498628B2 Content delivery system and method
A method and system for delivering content to a plurality of devices is provided. In one embodiment, the method may be for delivering content elements of one or more presentations to a device configured to communicate via a wireless data network, wherein the content elements include static content elements, dynamic content elements, and on-demand content elements. The method may comprise delivering to the device, data, such as compilation data, of the content elements included in the one or more presentations; delivering the static content elements to the device via the wireless data network during one or more time periods of increased available wireless data network capacity; delivering the dynamic content elements to the device via the wireless data network substantially according to a schedule; and delivering the on-demand content elements to the device via the wireless data network substantially immediately after a user request for an on-demand content element. In addition, the method may comprise determining that the device is accessible via a communication link, such as a wireless local area network, that does not include the wireless data network and delivering one or more content elements to the device via the communication link. Further, the method may comprise determining that the device is communicatively coupled to an internet access device and delivering one or more content elements to the device via the internet access device.
US08498619B2 Method and apparatus for validating integrity of a mobile communication
A method for validating integrity of a mobile communication device includes provisioning the mobile communication device by deleting existing software and installing an integrity verification application. The method also includes establishing a first pass indicator and a second pass indicator including receiving a first instance of the first pass indicator. The method also includes receiving a second instance of the first pass indicator as a challenge for verification. In response to receiving the second instance of the first pass indicator, the second pass indicator may be displayed as an indication of the integrity.
US08498617B2 Method for enrolling a user terminal in a wireless local area network
A method for enrolling a user terminal in a network includes an access point for the user terminal, the access point performing the following steps: detecting the performance of a first pressure of a registration button on the access point; detecting the reception of a request for enrollment from the user terminal; detecting the performance of a second pressure of the registration button on the access point; and enrolling the user terminal in the network only if a single request for enrollment is received between the detections of the first and second pressures.
US08498606B1 Data rate tracking filter
The following embodiments relate to an analog filter having an adjustable transfer function for use in a system or circuit that processes a signal having a changing data rate. The transfer function may be adjusted by adjusting the resistance and/or capacitance of components of the analog filter. The analog filter is calibrated based on an optimum operational parameter at a certain data rate, such as a median data rate. The analog filter may be further adjusted as the data rate of the signal changes.
US08498604B2 Double balanced mixer
An improved double balanced mixer is provided which in one embodiment includes a first balun for receiving a first single input and providing a first balanced output having two ports, a second balun for receiving a second single input and providing a second balanced output having two ports, and a balanced mixer core responsive to the first and second balanced outputs to provide a mixed signal from the first and second single inputs. The first balun includes an RC network coupled between at least one of the ports of the first balanced output and one of ground and a common mode node of the first balun to improve the linearity of the double balanced mixer.
US08498601B2 Polar receiver using injection-locking technique
A polar receiver using injection-locking technique includes an antenna, a first filter, a first voltage-controlled oscillator, a first mixer, a frequency discriminator, a second filter, a third filter, a first analog-digital converter, a second analog-digital converter and a digital signal processing unit. Mentioned polar receiver enables to separate an envelope signal and a frequency-modulated signal from a radio frequency signal received from the antenna via the injection locking technique of the first voltage-controlled oscillator and the frequency discriminator. The envelope component and the frequency-modulated component can be digitally processed by the digital signal processing unit to accomplish polar demodulation.
US08498593B2 Switching power supply
A power supply is disclosed herein. For example, the power supply can include a switching device and an aperture generator and control module. The switching device can be configured to down-convert an input voltage and pass the down-converted input voltage to an output voltage node. The aperture generator and control module can be configured to control the switching device. In response to a power efficiency of the power supply exceeding a predetermined threshold, the aperture generator and control module can deactivate the switching device and pass the input voltage to the output voltage node.
US08498591B1 Digital Predistortion for nonlinear RF power amplifiers
Systems and techniques relating to wireless communications are described. A described technique includes generating a digital transmit signal, receiving a digital receive signal, storing signal samples, the signal samples including transmit samples based on the digital transmit signal and receive samples based on the digital receive signal, causing, in a predistortion training mode, the digital receive signal to be based on an amplified analog version of the digital transmit signal, where the amplified analog version is produced by a power amplifier having one or more nonlinear characteristics, determining a synchronization offset value to align the transmit samples with the receive samples, determining one or more power normalization parameter values to normalize a power of the digital receive signal with respect to the digital transmit signal, estimating predistortion parameter values, and using the predistortion parameter values to predistort digital signals to compensate for the one or more nonlinear characteristics of the power amplifier. Estimating predistortion parameter values can include using information comprising the transmit samples, the receive samples, the synchronization offset value, and the one or more power normalization parameter values.
US08498590B1 Signal transmitter linearization
A linearizer for a non-linear transmitter and method include a gain regulator and predistorter adapted to be coupled to a non-linear transmitter in various configurations. Bounding controllers are coupled to the gain regulator and predistorter to maintain normal operation of a transmit path to prevent unstable transmitter operation.
US08498588B2 Mobile wireless communications device with reduced microphone noise from radio frequency communications circuitry
A mobile wireless communications device includes a housing and circuit board in the housing and having radio frequency (RF) circuitry and a power amplifier and microphone mounted thereon. An antenna is carried within the housing and operative with the RF circuitry. An RF shield surrounds and isolates the microphone from the RF circuitry, power amplifier and antenna and shields the microphone from radiated energy generated from the RF circuitry, antenna or power amplifier.
US08498574B2 Techniques for enhanced co-existence of co-located radios
Techniques for enhanced co-existence for co-located radios are described. A mobile computing device may comprise a first radio module operative to communicate wirelessly across a first link using a first set of communications channels, a second radio module operative to communicate wirelessly across a second link using a second set of communications channels, and a coordination module operative to receive information regarding operation of the first and second radio modules, and modify a communications parameter for the first or second radio module based on the received information. Other embodiments are disclosed and claimed.
US08498565B2 Cleaning blade, and image forming apparatus and process cartridge using the same
A cleaning blade for use in an image forming apparatus including a holder, and an elastic blade attached to the holder and in contact with an image bearing member, the elastic blade being impregnated with an acrylate polymer from at least one surface to a depth of from 5 to 100 μm.
US08498562B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus comprising the same
Provided is a fixing device that uses an induction heating method and is capable of shortening a warm-up time period by accelerating the speed of increase in the temperature of a fixing belt. The fixing device forms a fixing nip by having a pressurizing roller pressurize a fixing roller, which is positioned inside a rotation path of a fixing belt having a hollow cylindrical shape, from outside the rotation path via the fixing belt. Given that Db is an inner diameter of the fixing belt, Dr is an outer diameter of the fixing roller, and a rate X is a value obtained by dividing the inner diameter Db of the fixing belt by the outer diameter Dr of the fixing roller, the fixing belt and the fixing roller that satisfy a relationship 0
US08498561B2 Fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same having a reinforcing member including first and second flanges
A fixing device includes an endless belt, a fuser pad, a pressure member, a tubular belt holder, and a reinforcing member. The endless belt is looped into a generally cylindrical configuration extending in an axial direction. The fuser pad extends in the axial direction inside the loop of endless belt. The pressure member extends in the axial direction with the belt interposed between the fuser pad and the pressure member. The pressure member is pressed against the fuser pad through the fuser belt to form a fixing nip. The belt holder extends in the axial direction inside the loop of endless belt to retain the belt in shape along an outer circumference thereof. The belt holder accommodates the fuser pad in a longitudinal side slot defined on one side thereof. The reinforcing member is disposed inside the tubular belt holder to reinforce the belt holder around the side slot.
US08498558B2 Image forming apparatus, control device, detecting method of reference index on transfer body, and computer readable medium
An image forming apparatus includes: a latent image forming unit forming a latent image; a transfer body on which a reference index for setting an output start time point of image data is formed; a detecting unit facing the reference index and outputting a detection signal changing in accordance with passing of the reference index; a measuring unit measuring change duration time; and a controller controlling the output start time point with the detection signal. The controller starts a first period during which change of the detection signal is ignored, according to first change of the detection signal, starts a second period after the first period, regards change of the detection signal occurring first in the second period as a reference of the output start time point if the change duration time is longer than a predetermined period, and ignores change of the detection signal after the change occurring first.
US08498551B2 Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes: an image forming unit having a plurality of photoconductor drums arranged in tandem; an intermediate transfer belt arranged opposite to the photoconductor drums and configured to receive developer images formed on the photoconductor drums and to transfer the developer images onto a recording sheet; a cleaning unit comprising a cleaning member positioned in contact with the intermediate transfer belt and configured to collect substance adhering to the intermediate transfer belt, and a receptacle configured to store the substance collected by the cleaning member, wherein the cleaning unit is arranged on the same side as the image forming unit with respect to the intermediate transfer belt; and a support member configured to support the image forming unit and the cleaning unit and to be pulled out from a main body.
US08498548B2 Blower and image forming apparatus
A blower includes a fan; and an air duct having a passage formed therein, the air duct guiding the air and blowing the air onto the corona discharger, the air duct including an increasing-width portion in which a passage width gradually increases downstream in an air flow direction, a decreasing-height portion in which a passage height gradually decreases downstream in the air flow direction, an extension portion extending from a downstream end of the decreasing-height portion to a position near the corona discharger, a bent portion that is bent from a downstream end of the extension portion toward the corona discharger, an opening formed at a downstream end of the bent portion, and a plate-shaped member disposed in the passage at a position on an inner wall of any of the decreasing-height portion and the extension portion, the inner wall being on the corona discharger side.
US08498544B2 Iterative carrier phase compensation in coherent fiber optic receivers
A method and an optical receiver compensates for an error in a phase of an optical signal in a receiver. The signal includes blocks of symbols in a sequence. Each block is decoded based on a partially phase compensated symbols, and an average phase error for the block is estimated. Forward phase compensation and backward phase compensation is performed on the block based on the average phase error, and the decoding, estimating, performing is iterated until a termination condition is satisfied to produce a phase compensated block.
US08498543B2 Dispersion tolerant optical system and method
An optical communication system and method of use are described. The system comprises an optical source adapted to receive a digitally encoded data signal comprising sequences of data at a data rate (B) and comprising two signal levels representing a first state and a second state of the data signal, the optical source being adapted to produce an optical signal substantially frequency modulated with frequency excursion Δν comprising a first instantaneous frequency (ν0) associated to the first state and a second instantaneous frequency (ν1) associated to the second state; an optical converter adapted to receive the substantially frequency modulated optical signal, the optical converter having an optical transfer function varying with frequency and including at least one pass band, the at least one pass band having a peak transmittance and at least a low-transmittance region.
US08498542B2 Multi-channel optical transceiver with offset quadrature amplitude modulation
The present disclosure provides a multi-carrier optical transmitter, receiver, transceiver, and associated methods utilizing offset quadrature amplitude modulation thereby achieving significant increases in spectral efficiency, with negligible sensitivity penalties. In an exemplary embodiment, an optical transmitter includes circuitry configured to generate a plurality of optical subcarriers, a plurality of data signals for each of the plurality of subcarriers, and a plurality of modulator circuits for each of the plurality of subcarriers, wherein each of the plurality of modulator circuits includes circuitry configured to offset an in-phase component from a quadrature component of one of the plurality data signals by one-half baud period.
US08498538B2 Compact monolithic dispersion compensator
An optical signal control system is constructed from a portion of a material and allows for controlled amount of negative dispersion to be generated across a broadband input signal. The block may be made of a single portion of the material and have surfaces with reflective, transmissive, and/or diffractive optical characteristics. By adjusting the physical dimensions of the block substrate and the line pitch of a diffraction grating etched into a surface of the block, the magnitude of the dispersion can be varied. Laser systems that utilize the optical signal control system may have reduced size and weight as compared to existing compressors and be more robust against misalignment.
US08498527B2 Water heating control and storage system
A water heating control and storage system, including an insulated tank for containing water to be heated. The tank has at least two heating elements, including an upper heating element and a lower heating element. An operation control device receives a demand response signal and enables each element to independently heat water for usage. A method for controlling a water heating storage system includes providing an insulated tank for containing water to be heated; providing an upper heating element with a thermostat and thermal limiting device and a lower heating element with a thermostat and thermal limiting device to heat upper and lower portions of water inside the tank; and providing a pair of switches for enabling each of the heating elements to independently heat upper and lower portions of the water for usage.
US08498523B2 Apparatus and control method for a hybrid tankless water heater
An on demand tankless water heater system that is capable of quickly delivering water within a desired temperature range. The tankless water heater provides a hybrid heating method that contains a primary heating system and a secondary heating system disposed in a buffer tank that cooperate to facilitate control of output water temperature during water usage. A pressure differential switch detects low flow demand and allows the secondary heating system to provide immediate heating to the water. This secondary heating system provides a faster temperature response and fine tuning of output water temperature.
US08498515B2 Recording medium and recording and reproducing method and apparatuses
In one embodiment, the method includes receiving at least one text subtitle stream from an external source. Each text subtitle stream includes text data to be displayed within a region of a display screen, first information specifying a global style of the region, and second information specifying a local style for a portion of the text data. The text subtitle stream is decoded using the first information and the second information.
US08498511B2 Fiber distribution hub with modular termination blocks
A fiber distribution hub includes a cabinet; a termination region positioned within the interior of the cabinet; at least one termination module mounted in at least one opening defined at the termination region; fiber optic connectors coupled to termination adapters of the termination module; intermediate fibers extending rearwardly of the fiber optic connectors; and a multi-fiber connector terminating the intermediate fibers. The termination module includes a housing enclosing the termination adapters. One or more termination modules can be incrementally added to the fiber distribution hub.
US08498502B2 Device for phase modulation
A phase modulator may include a middle layer having a first refractive index, a first surrounding layer of material in contact with the middle layer and having a second refractive index, a second surrounding layer of material in contact with the middle layer and may having a third refractive index, a first electrode in electrical contact with the first surrounding layer, and a second electrode may be in electrical contact with the second surrounding layer. When no voltage is applied across the first electrode and the second electrode, the first refractive index may be greater than the second refractive index and the third refractive index. When a voltage is applied across the first electrode and the second electrode, the first refractive index may be less than the second refractive index within a portion of the phase modulator substantially within an electric field induced by such voltage.
US08498500B2 Image processing apparatus and image processing method
An image processing apparatus includes a blending layout information generating unit that generates blending layout information indicative of overlay information in a blended image of plural source images, a source necessity information generating unit that generates source necessity information indicative of unnecessary areas on the source image overwritten by the blending process, a source necessity information storing memory, and a source read masking unit that conducts a read masking control. A process of generating the blending layout information and the source necessity information, and a process of conducting the read masking control are executed in different frame processing periods, separately, to reduce a throughput necessary for generation of the source necessity information.
US08498498B2 Apparatus and method of obtaining high resolution image
Disclosed is a high resolution image obtaining apparatus and method. The high resolution image obtaining apparatus may divide an input image frame into a background region and foreground region and apply an optimized resolution enhancement algorithm to each region, thereby effectively obtaining a high resolution image frame with respect to the input image frame.
US08498494B2 Method and apparatus for processing a digital image signal, and a recording medium having recorded thereon a program for executing the method
A method and apparatus for processing a digital image signal to correct for the effect of hand tremble in a digital photographing apparatus, such as a digital camera or video recorder. The method and apparatus perform the operations of generating original image data, dividing the original image data into at least one block and generating processed image data in which an average of the original image data is calculated according to the block, and decreasing a first contribution of the original image data or increasing a second contribution of the processed image data, as a difference of pixels or blocks between the original image data and the processed image data nears to a boundary.
US08498487B2 Content-based matching of videos using local spatio-temporal fingerprints
A computer implemented method computer implemented method for deriving a fingerprint from video data is disclosed, comprising the steps of receiving a plurality of frames from the video data; selecting at least one key frame from the plurality of frames, the at least one key frame being selected from two consecutive frames of the plurality of frames that exhibiting a maximal cumulative difference in at least one spatial feature of the two consecutive frames; detecting at least one 3D spatio-temporal feature within the at least one key frame; and encoding a spatio-temporal fingerprint based on mean luminance of the at least one 3D spatio-temporal feature. The least one spatial feature can be intensity. The at least one 3D spatio-temporal feature can be at least one Maximally Stable Volume (MSV). Also disclosed is a method for matching video data to a database containing a plurality of video fingerprints of the type described above, comprising the steps of calculating at least one fingerprint representing at least one query frame from the video data; indexing into the database using the at least one calculated fingerprint to find a set of candidate fingerprints; applying a score to each of the candidate fingerprints; selecting a subset of candidate fingerprints as proposed frames by rank ordering the candidate fingerprints; and attempting to match at least one fingerprint of at least one proposed frame based on a comparison of gradient-based descriptors associated with the at least one query frame and the at least one proposed frame.
US08498485B2 Handprint recognition test deck
A system and method for creating one of a plurality of test decks to qualify and test forms processing systems, including preparing a handprint snippet data base containing labeled handprint image snippets representing a unique hand, preparing a form description file and a data content file, selecting handprint snippets from the handprint snippet data base to formulate a form using the data content file, creating a form image using the selected snippets according to the form description file and printing the form image.
US08498482B2 Image segmentation
A device for segmenting an image comprises a user input (301, 305, 307) for receiving segment indications and boundary indications for the image. Each segment indication identifies a set of pixel regions and a relationship between the set of pixel regions and an associated segment class of a plurality of segment classes. Each boundary indication identifies a boundary between pixels belonging to different segment classes. A segmentation processor (309) then segments the image into the plurality of segment classes in response to both the number of segment indications and the number of boundary indications. Specifically, a propagation of values linking the pixel regions to segment classes are propagated based on the segment indications with the propagation being constrained (e.g. attenuated or blocked) by the boundary indications. The invention may improve or facilitate interactive image segmentation e.g. for frames of a video signal.
US08498474B2 Methods for image characterization and image search
Methods for image characterization image search are provided in the invention. An input image comprising a plurality of pixels is provided. The image is converted into Hue Saturation Value (HSV) model, each pixel comprises a hue level, a saturation level and a brightness level. Characteristics of the input image are then calculated based on the hue level, saturation level and the brightness level.
US08498469B2 Full-field mask error enhancement function
A technique for determining a full-field Mask Error Enhancement Function (MEEF) associated with a mask pattern for use in a photo-lithographic process is described. In this technique, simulated wafer patterns corresponding to the mask pattern are generated at an image plane in an optical path associated with the photo-lithographic process. Then, the full-field MEEF is determined. This full-field MEEF includes MEEF values in multiple directions at positions along one or more contours that define boundaries of one or more features in the one or more simulated wafer patterns. Moreover, at least one of the MEEF values is at a position on a contour where a critical dimension for a feature associated with the contour is undefined.
US08498466B2 Method of evaluation by comparison of an acquired image with a reference image
A method for evaluating the surfaces of a tire, said surfaces being molded with rigid elements, wherein a collection of N images of a given zone of the tire is constituted based on the images originating from one or more tires, each of the images of the collection being constituted by the values of physical magnitudes measured by a sensor sensitive to the reflection of the light at each of the points with coordinates i, j of said surface, and then the images of said collection are made to correspond by superposition, and the image of the zone of a tire from said collection to be evaluated is compared with a reference image. The value of the physical magnitudes of the reference image is calculated based on the value of each of these physical magnitudes measured on the N images of said collection.
US08498465B2 Accurate determination of the shape and localization of metallic object(s) in X-ray CT imaging
A binary image reconstruction method is provided to identify metal objects in a computer tomography (CT) image. The method includes providing a suitably programmed computer, providing a CT image, where the CT image includes intensity data, and the suitably programmed computer is used to determine a first range of attenuation coefficient values and a second range of attenuation coefficient values in the intensity data, where when a difference between the first range of attenuation coefficient values and the second range of attenuation coefficient values is less than a pre-determined gradient threshold value, a boundary of a metal object in the CT image is determined.
US08498461B2 Method and magnetic resonance system to determine system-dependent phase information
In a method to determine an MR system-dependent phase information of a phase value in an MR phase image data set, initial variances are associated with image points of a first phase image data set, and for an additional phase image data set, a phase value and a variance of the phase value for the image points of the additional phase image data set are estimated by a linear transformation of the first phase image data set. The additional image data set is calculated by weighted addition of the phase values of the first phase image data set with the estimated phase values, with the weighting of the two phase values taking place in the addition dependent on the variance belonging to the respective phase value.
US08498453B1 Evaluating digital images using head points
An image processing system includes an image analysis module and an error detection module. The image analysis module is configured to analyze a digital image and to locate a plurality of head points of a subject in the digital image. The image analysis module is configured to detect a high hair condition of a subject, and to compute an adjusted top of head point if a high hair condition is present. The error detection module is configured to evaluate the head points identified by the image analysis module by performing a geometry test to evaluate a geometry of the head points.
US08498452B2 Digital image processing using face detection information
A method of processing a digital image using face detection within the image achieves one or more desired image processing parameters. A group of pixels is identified that correspond to an image of a face within the digital image. Default values are determined of one or more parameters of at least some portion of the digital image. Values are adjusted of the one or more parameters within the digitally-detected image based upon an analysis of the digital image including the image of the face and the default values.
US08498450B2 Image discriminating method and image processing apparatus
Scenes can be discriminated automatically and optimum prints corresponding to the scenes can be obtained.A face of person is detected from an inputted image and it is determined whether or not a person is on the scene of the inputted image. If it is determined that a person is not on the scene of the inputted image, then it is determined that the inputted image is a landscape image. If it is determined that a person is on the scene of the inputted image, then the face area is calculated and the number of people is counted. If the face area is more than a predetermined ratio of the screen and the number of people is not less than a predetermined number of people, then it is determined that the inputted image is a snapshot of people image. If the face area is more than the predetermined ratio of the screen and the number of people is less than the predetermined number of people, then it is determined that the inputted image is a portrait image.
US08498442B2 Loudspeaker, video device, and portable information processing apparatus
A loudspeaker includes a diaphragm that vibrates back and forth to emit a sound, a magnetic circuit that is provided on a rear side of the diaphragm and has a magnetic gap on a diaphragm side, and a voice coil that is directly or indirectly joined to the diaphragm and disposed within the magnetic gap. A magnetic fluid is loaded within the magnetic gap. Also, a plurality of first edge pieces are provided at different positions in an outer circumferential portion of the diaphragm for vibratably supporting the diaphragm, each of the first edge pieces having a non-linear cross-sectional shape.
US08498437B2 Panel opening and closing structure of electric operation apparatus
An electric operation apparatus capable of opening interiors of front and rear portions of an apparatus main body frontward and rearward to make it easy to carry out assembly and maintenance inside the main body. Front and rear pivot shafts are provided on inner side surfaces of side plates of the main body so as to extend in the left-right direction of the main body. Front and rear panels are openable and closable relative to the main body by being pivoted about the pivot shafts, with their engagement recesses in engagement with the pivot shafts. The front and rear panels cover the main body when they are in closed states, and open the interior of the main body when they are in open states. The front panel is opened by being pivoted rearward, whereas the rear panel is opened by being pivoted forward.
US08498430B2 Automatic correction of loudness level in audio signals
Systems and method for adapting a gain of an audio signal containing at least two different tracks with different signal level ranges. An example system includes a loudness determination unit for determining a perceived loudness of the audio input signal based on a psychoacoustic model of a human hearing. The system further includes a loudness adaptation unit configured to determine a loudness adaptation indicator based on the perceived loudness and a predetermined loudness, and to introduce the loudness adaptation indicator into the audio signal to generate an adapted gain signal. A gain determination unit is configured to adapt the gain for outputting the audio signal containing the at least two tracks based on the loudness adaptation indicators in the adapted gain signal at about the predetermined loudness.
US08498428B2 Fully integrated small stereo headset having in-ear ear buds and wireless connectability to audio source
A compact, wearable wireless headset for stereo audio reproduction contains first and second ear pieces. The ear pieces each contain a battery and a speaker, and are connected by connecting means. The first ear piece receives audio information via a short range radio, and communicates left channel audio information to the second ear piece by various means, including wirelessly, by wire, and via optical communication. In some embodiments, the battery in the second ear piece supplies power to circuitry located in the first ear piece.
US08498425B2 Wearable headset with self-contained vocal feedback and vocal command
A headset includes a wearable body, first and second earphones extending from the wearable body, controls for controlling an external communication/multimedia device wirelessly, a microphone for picking up vocal data from a user of the headset system and a signal processing unit. The signal processing unit includes circuitry for processing the vocal data into a distinctly audible vocal feedback signal, circuitry for enhancing the vocal feedback signal thereby producing an enhanced vocal feedback signal and circuitry for mixing the enhanced vocal feedback signal with audio signals originating from the external communication/multimedia device, thereby producing a mixed output signal and then sending the mixed output signal to the user via the earphones. The external communication/multimedia device comprises a vocal command application and the headset further comprises a vocal command control for sending vocal commands to the external communication/multimedia device and to the vocal command application.
US08498418B2 Conversion of cryptographic key protection
Protection of cryptographic keys is converted between one level of security and another level of security. The one level of security is different from the another level of security, and the another level of security includes the components of the one level of security.
US08498385B2 Changing redirection information for telecommunications devices via a voicemail system or call handling server
A system and method for updating call redirection information and other communication redirection information. The system is integrated with and accessed by a subscriber via a voicemail system or call handling server. The system may present one or more options to a subscriber to provide call redirection information. The subscriber may provide call redirection information, such as an alternate number, via an interactive voice response (IVR) component of the voicemail system or call handling server. The subscriber may also access the system and provide call redirection information via a voicemail system or call handling server web interface, a user-selectable menu on the subscriber's telecommunications device, and so on. The system communicates with other components in a telecommunication network to provide the call redirection information and enable calls to a telecommunications device to be appropriately redirected or deflected.
US08498376B2 Method and system for certifying operators of x-ray systems
A method and system for using Threat Imaging Projection (TIP) technology, and the operator testing data that it generates, in order to certify x-ray inspection system operators and thereby assure an acceptable and uniform level of operator performance. In a preferred configuration, the operator views x-ray images of objects on a screening system equipped with TIP technology. When the operator believes that a threat item image appears on the screening system, the operator indicates such via an indicating means. The system is capable of recording, storing and transmitting individual operator performance data relating to proper detections, missed detections, and false alarms, i.e., when an operator indicates that a threat item image appears when no such image actually appears on the screening system. The system preferably contains a library of various threat item images, e.g., guns, bombs, knives, etc., which are classified according to type of threat and difficulty of detection.
US08498374B2 Dental and orthopedic densitometry modeling system and method
A dental and orthopedic densitometry modeling system includes a controller with a microprocessor and a memory device connected to the microprocessor. An input device is also connected to the microprocessor for inputting diagnostic procedure parameters and patient information. X-ray equipment including an X-ray source and an X-ray detector array are connected to a positioning motor for movement relative to a patient's dental or orthopedic structure in response to signals from the microprocessor. The output consists of a tomographical densitometry model. A dental/orthopedic densitometry modeling method involves moving the X-ray equipment across a predetermined scan path, emitting dual-energy X-ray beams, and outputting an image color-coded to correspond to a patient's dental or orthopedic density.
US08498369B2 Adaptive digital post distortion reduction
A method for adaptive digital post distortion reduction is described. An analog radio frequency (RF) signal is received. The frequency of the analog RF signal is downconverted using analog circuitry. The analog RF signal is converted to a digital signal using an analog to digital converter (ADC). Digital post distortion reduction is applied to the digital signal to reduce nonlinearities in the digital signal.
US08498368B1 Method and system for optimizing gain changes by identifying modulation type and rate
In some wireless local area networks (WLANs), signals of different modulation types and rates can be received. To operate optimally, the gain of an amplifier in a receiver can be set based on a specific modulation type and rate. For example, the gain of a receive path amplifier can be changed based on one or more unique identifying characteristics in a received data packet. Once the unique identifying characteristics are located, they can be analyzed to determine which modulation type and rate are represented. The appropriate gain of the amplifier can be set based on the modulation type and rate. Advantageously, subsequent data symbols can be amplified with the set gain, thereby ensuring that the receiver optimally receives those data symbols.
US08498366B2 Architectures for universal or software radio
A system and technique for providing to flexible, programmable frequency estimators and spectrum analyzers that can operate over extremely large bandwidths and yet provide high spectral resolution are described. The system and technique may include a cascaded super-heterodyne apparatus for estimating a frequency and a bandwidth of signals proximate in frequency to a desired signal, a tunable filter coupled to an input of a receiver, and a tuner which receives a signal from said cascaded super-heterodyne apparatus and tunes the filter to filter out unwanted signals from the receiver.
US08498364B2 Digital broadcasting transmission/reception devices capable of improving a receiving performance and signal processing method thereof
Disclosed is a digital broadcasting transmission/reception system having an improved reception performance and in a signal-processing method thereof. A digital broadcasting transmitter comprises a TS stream generator for inputting robust and normal packets having stuff bytes in predetermined positions and generating dual TS stream by inserting the robust packets between the normal packets; a randomizer for randomizing the dual TS stream; a stuff byte exchanger for replacing the stuff bytes of a randomized data streams from the randomizer to a predetermined known data; and an encoder for encoding a data streams to which the known data is inserted. Accordingly, the present invention detects the known data from a signal received from a reception side and uses the detected known data for synchronization and equalization, so that the digital broadcasting reception performance can be improved at poor multipath channels.
US08498355B2 Device and method for correcting a data error in communication path
There are provided a transmission and reception device having a function for correcting a data error in a communication path. In the transmission device, a redundant bit addition unit adds a redundant bit to each data bit which has been divided by one bit by a division unit; and an interleaver performs interleave. The transmission device transmits a signal which has been subjected to FM modulation by an FM modulation unit. In the reception device, a symbol decision unit performs a symbol decision at a Nyquist point for a signal which has been FM-demodulated by an FM demodulation unit; a bit conversion unit performs bit conversion according to the result of symbol decision; and a frame recovery unit deletes the redundant bit added by the redundant bit addition unit of the transmission device, from the bit string de-interleaved by a de-interleaver. Thus, it is possible to surely perform an error correction with a simple configuration even when the communication state is not in a preferable environment.
US08498345B2 Method for transmitting control information, and method for generating codeword for the same
A method for transmitting downlink control information and a method for generating a codeword for the same are disclosed. In generating a long code having a low code rate, a basic code of which minimum distance between codes is maximized is repeated by a prescribed number of times and bits of the repeated code are adjusted. Therefore, a minimum distance condition between codes of a long code is satisfied and simultaneously the code can be simply generated. Furthermore, control information can be transmitted with a low error rate by using the generated code.
US08498341B2 Decoder and operation method thereof
A decoder and an operation method thereof are provided. The decoder includes a pre-unit, a database, a data filter, and a scheduler. The pre-unit provides packet information of a data stream. The database records a plurality of parameter sets. The scheduler fetches the corresponding parameter sets from the database according to the packet information, and saves the parameter sets into the data filter. The data filter compares the data stream with the saved parameter sets and outputs a comparing result. Therefore, the present invention reduces the cost of the decoder.
US08498340B2 Method and device for decoding and displaying video frames
A method of decoding and displaying video frames and an apparatus thereof are disclosed. The method includes indexing the first portion of a buffer with the first reference number, said first portion to be stored with the first reference frame; changing said first reference number to the second reference upon detecting the second reference frame to be stored in the second portion of said buffer; storing the third reference frame in the third portion of said buffer; and displaying said first reference frame associated with said second reference number, wherein storing said third reference frame in said third portion performs simultaneously with displaying said first reference frame.
US08498337B2 Method for decoding and encoding a video signal
In one embodiment, the method for decoding a video signal using inter layer prediction includes obtaining a residual signal of a corresponding block in a base layer from a base layer bitstream, scaling the residual signal of the corresponding block in the base layer, obtaining a residual signal of a current block in an enhanced layer from an enhanced layer bitstream, obtaining a prediction pixel value of the current block in the enhanced layer based on an intra prediction mode of the corresponding block in the base layer and a pixel value of a neighboring block in the enhanced layer, and reconstructing the current block by using the prediction pixel value of the current block, the residual signal of the current block.
US08498329B2 MMSE equaliser
A MMSE equaliser taking into account delays in the reception of signals from plural users. Time delays in reception of signals from plural users may be known or can be measured or estimated and can be used to for the basis for the operation of the equaliser. A low computational complexity version of the equaliser and a regularized equalizer with further reduced complexity for asynchronous reception are also disclosed.
US08498324B2 Method and system for interference suppression between multipath signals utilizing a programmable interface suppression module
Aspects of a method and system for interference suppression between multipath signals utilizing a programmable interface suppression module may include one or more processors and/or circuits that are operable to program an interference suppression module based on one or more interference cancellation parameters. A plurality of weighting factor values may be determined based on the one or more interference suppression parameters and a received plurality of multipath signals. A plurality of estimated signals may be generated based on the plurality of weighting factor values. A plurality of updated estimated signals may be generated based on the plurality of estimated signals. A plurality of interference suppressed signals may be generated based on the plurality of updated estimated signals and/or a plurality of updated residual signals.
US08498321B2 Method and system for optimizing programmable interference suppression
A wireless system may receive a plurality of multipath signals from a plurality of transmitters and sequentially process each of a plurality of data symbols in the received multipath signals utilizing a plurality of shared hardware modules within a chip. Desired information may be recovered from data transmitted by one or more of the transmitters utilizing the interference suppressed signal. Chips of data may be cell combined utilizing one or more of shared hardware modules. The shared modules may include channel rotation modules and sum and difference modules. One or more fast Hadamard transforms and/or inverse Hadamard transforms may be performed utilizing shared hardware modules. Data symbols may be interpolated, scrambled, descrambled, and/or weighted and added back utilizing the shared hardware modules.
US08498320B2 Melting furnace having a gas supplying apparatus
A melting furnace includes a gas supplying unit configured to protrude inwardly of the melting furnace to supply a gas to the melting furnace, the gas supplying unit including a gas supplying pipe configured to penetrate the melting furnace to protrude inwardly of the melting furnace and configured to have a nozzle hole formed at a front end thereof; and a cooling passage pipe provided outside the gas supplying pipe to include a second cooling passage through which a cooling liquid flows, the second cooling passage being directly connected to a first cooling passage through which the cooling liquid is circulated along a wall of the melting furnace.
US08498315B2 System and method of synchronizing real time clock values in arbitrary distributed systems
A system for establishing a primary master node in a computer system includes a plurality of nodes, each node configured with an update interval, a hierarchy of master nodes selected from the plurality of nodes, wherein the master nodes are configured to synchronize the plurality of nodes with a clock value by sending out its clock value when its update interval has expired, wherein each node resets its update interval when it receives the clock value, a primary master node selected from the hierarchy of master nodes based on its update interval, and at least one backup master node selected from the hierarchy of master nodes based on its update interval, the backup master node configured to become the primary master node when the plurality of nodes do not receive the clock value after a predetermined period of time has elapsed.
US08498304B2 Communication controller
A switch includes: a packet buffer including a plurality of segments for temporarily storing a packet to be relayed, using a segment of a fixed size as a unit of management of a storage area; an input processor configured to receive a packet to be relayed from an external source, refer to an offset, indicating a location in a segment where a free area starts, store a first packet, starting at the location in the segment indicated by the offset, update the location of start indicated by the offset in accordance with the packet size, and store a second packet, starting at the location of start in the segment thus updated; and an output processor configured to read the first and second packets and send the packets to a communication node.
US08498298B2 Digital broadcasting system and method for transmitting and receiving digital broadcast signal
A digital broadcasting system and a method for transmitting and receiving digital broadcast signal are disclosed. The method of receiving digital broadcast signal includes receiving a broadcast signal including data groups, wherein the data groups include mobile service data and signaling data including transmission parameter, wherein the transmission parameter includes a protocol version field identifying a first transmission mode or a second transmission mode, demodulating the broadcast signal, decoding the signaling data including a transmission parameter, decoding the mobile service data according to the transmission parameter included in the signaling data.
US08498297B2 Forwarding table minimisation in ethernet switches
An Ethernet switch for use in an Ethernet network comprises a set of ingress ports for receiving data frames and a set of egress ports. A memory is associated with each ingress port and stores forwarding information indicating one or more of the egress ports to which data frames received by that ingress port should be forwarded. A control or management interface receives information about a network connection established, or to be established, through the switch. A switch controller causes forwarding information to be stored in a memory associated with a first ingress port which the network connection will use, on the basis of the received information about a network connection. Forwarding information is not stored in a memory associated with a second of the set of ingress ports which the network connection will not use. Preferably, the switch controller causes forwarding information to be stored only in a memory associated with the first ingress port which the network connection will use and not to be stored in a memory associated with any of the other ingress ports.
US08498294B1 Multimedia over coaxial cable access protocol
A BCN network with BCN modems that communicate using predefined messages to establish, optimize and facilitate data communication.
US08498289B2 System, method and mobile device for remote control of a voice mail system
A unified messaging system, method and user interface is provided for a handheld mobile communication device. The method may include the following steps: (a) receiving a notification signal at the wireless device via the wireless data channel indicating that the unified messaging system received and stored a voice mail message intended for a user of the wireless device; (b) transmitting a command signal from the wireless device to the unified messaging system via the wireless data channel, the command signal including a message retrieval command; (c) receiving via the wireless voice channel a voice call initiated by a voice mail system component of the unified messaging system in response to the message retrieval command transmitted from the wireless device; and (d) receiving the voice mail message from the unified messaging system via the wireless voice channel.
US08498273B2 Management of uplink resources in multi-carrier CDMA system
The method an apparatus described herein manages uplink resources to increase spectral efficiency and system capacity. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a base station may be assigned two or more downlink carriers for downlink transmission and two or more corresponding uplink carriers. In a multi-carrier mode, the base station may transmit signals on two or more downlink carriers to the same mobile terminal, and receive signals from the mobile terminal on one of the paired uplink terminals. The uplink carriers can be operated at different interference levels and the uplink traffic can be divided between the available uplink carriers based on the type of traffic and/or data transmission parameters. The mobile terminals may also be allowed to switch between the uplink carriers to improve overall efficiency.
US08498272B2 Providing signaling information and performing a handover using the signaling information
Apparatuses may perform and methods may include: receiving a digital broadcast signal that includes layer 2 (L2) signaling information; locating a physical layer pipe (PLP) carrying local multiplex information of the L2 signaling information and a PLP carrying other multiplex information of the L2 signaling information; and extracting the local multiplex information and the other multiplex information from the respective PLPs. Apparatuses may perform and methods may include: performing a handover using the extracted other multiplex information and continuing to receive services after the performance of the handover using information included in the other multiplex information.
US08498268B1 Method and apparatus for re-establishing network connectivity upon handover in a wireless network
A method and apparatus for performing a handover of network connections upon a mobile terminal moving from a first access network to a second access network. The method includes obtaining IP connectivity and a first IP address for the mobile terminal through the first access network. In response to the mobile terminal moving from the first access network to the second access network, the method further includes sending a request for a new IP connectivity and a second IP address over the second access network, the request indicating a need to handover the network connections from the first access network to the second access network.
US08498253B2 Exchange of scheduling strategies for interference coordination
A cell informs surrounding cells about an orthogonal resource allocation strategy of the informing cell so as to induce cooperative behavior among the cells. The informing cell also receives resource allocation strategies from the surrounding cells. Each cell allocates its orthogonal resources according to the mutually exchanged information. The result is to reduce interference in the system. For example, a BS informs other cells on which clusters it generates a small interference, e.g., close UEs concentrated into a particular cluster, and indicate that to its neighbors. Other cells would concentrate UEs which are on the edge to the indicating cell exactly in this cluster. This would mean an “overload invitation”, i.e. inviting the neighbors to produce overload on a particular cluster. If a cell sends an overload invitation on a sufficiently large cluster, this will automatically reduce the interference in the other clusters.
US08498250B2 Neighbor discovery over multiple channels for wireless networks with directional antennas
A communication system includes first and second devices, where a processor of at least one of the first device and the second device is configured to establish a superframe having a superframe duration (Ts) and transmit a beacon by the first device during each of the superframe duration (Ts); scan by the second device all sectors (Nbeam) by scanning each sector for a superframe duration (Ts) and repeating a jump sequence. The jump sequence has a sequence duration (Ttotal) which is equal to a sum of a control duration (Tc) of a control channel and durations of data channels (KTd). The processor is further configured to find the first device by the second device during a find time (Tf), where the control duration (Tc) is greater than the durations of data channels (KTd).
US08498248B2 Medium access control protocol data unit overhead improvements
An apparatus comprising a controller configured to pack a plurality of Service Data Units (SDUs) from a plurality of connections associated with a Mobile Station (MS) into a single Medium Access Control (MAC) Protocol Data Unit (PDU). In various embodiments, the controller may be further configured to generate a Generic MAC Header (GMH) that indicates that a plurality of Service Data Units (SDUs) from a plurality of connections associated with a Mobile Station (MS) have been packed into the MAC PDU. In some embodiments, the controller may be further configured to generate, for each SDU, an associated Extended Packing Sub-Header (EPSH). The apparatus further comprising a memory configured to store MAC PDU. The apparatus also comprising a wireless transceiver configured to transmit the MAC PDU.
US08498245B2 Method of arranging packets in a wireless communication system and related device
A method of arranging a packet in a wireless communication system includes a preamble sequence and a data sequence. The preamble sequence includes a legacy training field (L-TF), a legacy signal field (L-SIG), a very high throughput signal field (VHT-SIG), a very high throughput short training field (VHT-STF) and at least one very high throughput long training field (VHT-LTF). The method includes generating a first VHT-SIG field and a second VHT-SIG field according to the VHT-SIG field; and arranging the L-TF field, the L-SIG field, the first VHT-SIG field, the VHT-STF field, one of the at least one VHT-LTF fields, the second VHT-SIG field and the rest of the at least one VHT-LTF fields in a predetermined sequence.
US08498239B2 Method for mapping a subband/miniband in a wireless communication system, and apparatus for the same
The present application discloses a method for mapping a subband/miniband in a wireless communication system. Particularly, the method comprises the steps of: dividing a system frequency band into a plurality of physical resource units (PRU); mapping the plurality of physical resource units to physical resource units of a subband (PRUSB) in accordance with a 1st rule; and mapping the plurality of physical resource units to physical resource units of a miniband (PRUMB) in accordance with a 2nd rule, wherein said 1st rule and said 2nd rule contain factors for limiting the minimum value of the gap between subbands allocated to the system frequency band.
US08498236B2 Mobile communication system
A radio base station according to the present invention comprising: a mobile communication system, a relay node and a first radio base station are connected via a radio bearer, the first radio base station and a second radio base station are connected, a mobile station is configured to perform a handover process between a state in which a radio bearer is set with the relay node so as to communicate via the relay node and the first radio base station, and a state in which a radio bearer is set with the second radio base station so as to communicate via the second radio base station, and the handover process is configured such that a radio bearer is set between the relay node and the second radio base station, and the control signals involved in the handover process are sent and received via the radio bearer that has been set between the relay node and the second radio base station.
US08498227B2 Method and apparatus for flexible spectrum usage in communications systems
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed that provide flexible use of a shared radio resource. An apparatus determines from monitoring signal energy on a shared radio resource whether other transmitters are present. A predetermined set of time division duplex (TDD) signaling patterns are identified. A correlation is performed between signal energy received on the shared radio resource and the predetermined TDD signaling patterns. The apparatus may then determine a TDD signaling pattern that may reduce or avoid interference with any other transmitters using the shared resource. The shared radio resource may be, for example, a shared frequency spectrum. Efficient allocation of radio resources among apparatuses such as radio transceivers, without fixed time references or predetermined patterns, may be obtained. The radio transceivers may be base stations or mobile user equipment in a wireless communications system. The apparatus may be an integrated circuit, a portion thereof, or chipset.
US08498224B2 Aggregation and propagation of sensor data within neighbor discovery messages in a tree-based ad hoc network
In one embodiment, a method comprises attaching, by a mobile router, to an attachment router according to a protocol requiring establishment of a tree topology having a single clusterhead, the attaching by the mobile router based on the mobile router receiving, from the attachment router, an advertisement message specifying an attachment prefix; outputting a second advertisement message specifying availability of a prescribed address prefix used by the mobile router, and further specifying attributes of the mobile router relative to the tree topology; receiving a plurality of sensor data messages from at least one attached sensor host node, each sensor data message specifying at least one sensor data element specifying a detected sensor parameter; aggregating the sensor data elements from the sensor data messages into aggregated sensor data; and generating and outputting a neighbor advertisement message to the attachment router, the neighbor advertisement message specifying the aggregated sensor data.
US08498215B2 Open-loop rate control for a TDD communication system
Techniques for performing open-loop rate control in a TDD communication system are described. The channel quality of a first link is estimated based on a transmission received via the first link. The channel quality of a second link is estimated based on the estimated channel quality of the first link and an asymmetric parameter. At least one rate for a data transmission via the second link is selected based on the estimated channel quality of the second link. The estimated channel quality for each link may be given by a set of SNR estimates for a set of transmission channels on that link. The asymmetric parameter may be determined based on (1) the capabilities (e.g., transmit power, receiver noise figure, and number of antennas) of the transmitting and receiving stations or (2) received SNRs for the first and second links.
US08498209B1 Elastic traffic marking for multi-priority packet streams in a communications network
Routers in a communications network mark packets of a multi-priority stream to establish a drop precedence of the packets during network congestion. For each packet received, a router employs one of two types of packet-marking mechanisms to associate low drop precedence with a high-priority, out-of-profile packet. One type, called “token bucket with loan bucket,” uses a token bucket to determine whether a packet is in conformance, i.e., in-profile, with a traffic profile and at least one loan bucket to determine whether a high priority, out-of-profile packet may borrow bandwidth. Another mechanism type, called “token bucket with color-exchange queue,” uses a color-exchange queue to delay packet forwarding for a fixed period. During this delay, a high-drop-precedence marking of an out-of-profile, high-priority packet may be exchanged with a low-drop-precedence marking of an in-profile, low-priority packet. The packet-marking mechanisms are useful in improving the quality of video viewing.
US08498200B2 Detection of active nodes, safe node removal conditions, and cross-cabling conditions for maintenance operations within a multi-chassis routing matrix
A system includes a first device connected to a second device The first device includes a second node connected to a first node and the second device via a link, and includes a backup second node connected to the first node and the second device via another link. The first node is configured to receive, via the link or the other link, a group of packets (i.e., “packets”), from the second device; display a first notification that the second node can be removed when the packets are received via only the other link; display a second notification indicating that the backup second node can be removed when the packets are received via only the link; and display a third notification indicating that neither the second node nor the backup second node can be removed when the packets are not received via only the link and via only the other link.
US08498192B2 Spatial pilot structure for multi-antenna wireless communication
Spatial pilot to support MIMO receivers in a multi-antenna and multi-layer transmission communication system. A first layer pilot for a single layer transmission is repeated across subbands in a first OFDM symbol and the first layer pilot is also repeated offset from the first OFDM symbol in an adjacent second OFDM symbol. Additional transmission layers may also be transmitted each include a separate pilot generated and repeated in the first symbol and repeated offset form the separate pilot in an adjacent second symbol. The first and second OFDM symbols are then transmitted and received to characterize the receive channels.
US08498188B2 Target level setting method for a signal used in maximum-likelihood decoding in PRML processing of a signal reproduced from an optical information recording medium, playback device for an optical information recording medium, and target level setting program for a signal used in maximum-likelihood decoding in PRML processing
Target levels in the PRML method are adaptively set under conditions of simplicity and a low cost. A method of setting a target level for reproduction of an optical information recording medium includes: a step of producing a reproduction signal from reflected light of laser light irradiated to an optical information recording medium; a step of performing waveform equalization processing, which depends on a predetermined partial response characteristic, on the reproduction signal to produce a waveform-equalized reproduction signal; a step of detecting peak levels for marks and spaces of a predetermined number of symbols from the waveform-equalized reproduction signal irrespective of a condition for a symbol adjoining each symbol; and a setting step of determining and setting values of a plurality of target levels, which is employed in Viterbi decoding and is arrayed with non-equal intervals among them, on the basis of a relative relationship among the detected peak levels.
US08498187B2 Optical disc apparatus and optical disc discriminating method
In an optical disk having multiple layers for which a correction of spherical aberration is required, a spherical aberration correcting element is set to a predetermined spherical aberration correction amount; a laser light source is turned ON; an objective lens is swept; when it is discriminated that the optical disk has two or more layers, or has more than two information recording planes, the spherical aberration correction amount is changed into a spherical aberration correction amount suitable for information recording planes of three, or more layers; and the objective lens is again swept so as to discriminate a total layer number thereof.
US08498186B2 Circuits, architectures, apparatuses, systems, algorithms and methods and software for timing calibration for optical disc recording
The present disclosure relates to methods, software, and apparatuses for correcting reading and/or writing operations in an optical storage medium. The methods generally include reading a region of an optical storage medium to produce a readback signal, measuring timing offsets for a plurality of the data edges (including one or more non-guide edges), and storing an offset correction for at least one of the plurality of edges based on a measured offset of at least one of the plurality of edges relative to a predetermined offset. The disclosure advantageously enables precise measurement of timing offsets in optical storage media and correction of the measured offsets for timing offsets attributable to edge jitter, timing loop drift, or factors independent of variations in the medium and/or write operation characteristics.
US08498183B1 Thermally-assisted magnetic recording head having a waveguide and a return path section
A thermally-assisted magnetic recording head includes a coil, a main pole, a return path section, a waveguide, and a plasmon generator. The waveguide includes a core and a cladding. The return path section includes: first and second columnar portions located on opposite sides of the core in the track width direction; a coupling portion coupling the first and second columnar portions to each other; and a third columnar portion connected to the coupling portion. The third columnar portion is smaller than the coupling portion in width in the track width direction. The coil includes a winding portion wound around the third columnar portion.
US08498172B1 Data storage device evaluating frequency range of supply voltage to detect power failure
A data storage device (DSD) is disclosed comprising a non-volatile memory (NVM), such as a disk or non-volatile semiconductor memory, and control circuitry for detecting a power failure condition. A frequency range of a supply voltage from a first frequency to a second frequency is extracted, wherein the first frequency is greater than ten hertz, the second frequency is higher than the first frequency, and the second frequency is less than one megahertz. The power failure condition is detected in response to the extracted frequency range of the supply voltage.
US08498160B2 Nonvolatile memory device and related programming method using selective bit line precharging
A method of programming a nonvolatile memory device comprises programming memory cells by performing a plurality of program loops with bitline precharging inactivated during program verification operations of some of the program loops, and with bitline precharging activated during program verification operations of some of the program loops.
US08498145B2 Semiconductor storage device
A memory includes bit lines, word lines, and memory cells connected between first and second BLs. The cells arranged in an extending direction of the BLs constitute columns. The second BL is shared between two columns. The cells in a first pair of columns are arranged to be shifted in the extending direction of the BLs by a half-pitch from the cells in a second pair of columns. The device includes a dummy cell having an equal distance from the adjacent memory elements. Further, the device includes a row decoder driving the cells in the first pair of columns by driving paired word lines, and driving the cells in the second pair of columns by driving paired word lines. Each cell includes selection transistors. The selection transistors are connected in parallel between the memory element and the first BL. Gates of the transistors are connected to different WLs.
US08498136B2 AC-DC converter and compressor driving apparatus and air conditioning apparatus using the same
An AC-DC converter is provided which suppresses a harmonic current and improves power factor at low cost. Such an AC-DC converter includes a rectifier connected to an AC power supply via a reactor, capacitors connected in series across the output terminals of the rectifier, a first bidirectional switch having one end connected to one input terminal of the rectifier and the other end connected to a connecting point of capacitors, a second bidirectional switch having one end connected to the other input terminal of the rectifier and the other end connected to the other end of the first bidirectional switch, and a control circuit for actuating the first and second bidirectional switches during a half cycle of the AC power supply so as to control a voltage inputted to the rectifier to a desired output voltage.
US08498134B2 Voltage converter circuit and method for a clock supply of energy to an energy storage
The present invention provides a voltage converter circuit for the clocked supply of energy to an energy storage based on an input voltage applied at an input applied at an input of the voltage converter circuit. The voltage converter circuit includes an energy storage and a switch arrangement, wherein the switch arrangement has a first switch and a second switch which are connected in parallel to each other and coupled to the energy storage. The first switch of the switch arrangement has a smaller turn-on voltage according to amount than the second switch, wherein a control terminal of the first switch is wired up such that the first switch is active in a startup phase of the voltage converter circuit to supply energy to the energy storage, and wherein a control terminal of the second switch is wired up such that the second switch is active after the startup phase to supply energy to the energy storage in a clocked way. Further, the voltage converter circuit has a feedback circuit which is implemented to provide a feedback signal depending on a change of the energy stored in the energy storage or depending on an amount of energy stored in the energy storage, wherein the feedback circuit has a switchable coupling element which is implemented to couple the feedback signal to the control terminal of the second switch, and wherein the switchable coupling element is implemented to provide a stronger coupling effect in a startup phase than after the startup phase.
US08498131B2 Interconnect structure
An interconnect structure includes an insulative web having a first surface and a second surface; a logic device secured to the second surface of the insulative web; a frame panel assembly including a frame base having a first surface and a second surface, a first frame insulative layer disposed between the frame base first surface and the insulative web second surface, an aperture extending through the frame base and first frame insulative layer, wherein at least a portion of the logic device is disposed within the aperture, and a first frame connector disposed between a first electrically conductive layer located on the frame base first surface, and a second electrically conductive layer located on a surface of the first frame insulative layer; a device connector disposed between an I/O contact on a surface of the logic device and a third electrical conductor located on a surface of the insulative web; and an insulative layer connector that is disposed between the third electrical conductor located on a surface of the insulative web and the second electrically conductive layer located on a surface of the first frame insulative layer.
US08498130B2 Solid state drive, structure for supporting solid state drives and scalable information processing system including a plurality of solid state drives
A solid state drive includes a printed circuit board, at least one memory and a controller. The at least one memory stores data. The at least one memory is embedded in the substrate of the printed circuit board. The controller controls the at least one memory to perform a write operation or a read operation. The controller is also embedded in the substrate of the printed circuit board.
US08498125B2 Instrumentation package in a downhole tool string component
A downhole tool string component has a through-bore intermediate first and second tool joints adapted for connection to adjacent tool string components. An instrumentation package is disposed within an outer diameter of the component. The instrumentation package comprises a circuit board assembly. The circuit board assembly comprises alternating rigid and elastomeric layers. The rigid layers are in electrical communication with each other.
US08498112B2 Battery assembly for battery powered portable devices
A battery assembly includes at least a plurality of battery cells that includes at least a first and a second battery cell each attached to a distributed battery monitoring unit, the second battery cell being associated with an external circuit, the second battery cell connected to a battery management unit (BMU) by way of a pre-formed battery contact shaped to accommodate the external circuit. The plurality of battery cells are electrically connected to at least the BMU such that each of the plurality of battery cells are substantially aligned with each other thereby preserving a battery profile corresponding to unconnected battery cells.
US08498111B2 Notebook computer
A notebook computer includes a keyboard circuit, a USB circuit, a switching circuit, a reset circuit, and a lock button. The reset circuit is connected to ground by the lock button, thereby forming a first loop. The loop is switchable between an on-state and an off-state by the lock button.
US08498105B2 USB device structure
A USB device structure has a memory module and at least one support element. A combined thickness of the memory module and the support element complies with a height of a male connector having at least one data transmission interface of USB, Mini USB, Micro USB and e-SATA. Accordingly, the USB device structure of the present invention can effectively reduce the thickness of a storage device and can be extensively applied to advertisement and promotion and properly stored.
US08498104B2 Mounting apparatus for data storage device
A mounting apparatus includes an enclosure, a bracket for fixing a data storage device, an assistant plate arranged between the bracket and the enclosure, a handle pivotably mounted to the bracket, and a resisting member. The assistant plate defines a through hole and a locking hole. A handle with a locking portion is pivotably attached to the bracket. The resisting member is slidably mounted between the assistant plate and the first sidewall. The resisting member includes a pull portion corresponding to the through hole, and a resilient tongued portion engaged in the through hole of the assistant plate. When the handle is rotated toward to the base, the locking portion of the handle extends through the locking hole of the assistant plate to engage with the pull portion to move the resisting member to deform the tongued portion, such that the tongued portion is raised to resist against the bracket.
US08498099B1 Landscape controller housing with pivotable locking face pack
A landscape controller housing can be used to enclose the electronic components of a landscape lighting system or an irrigation system includes a face pack that is pivotably and removably mounted in an outer housing. The face pack can be installed in the outer housing in a normal upright position in which a pair of pivot pins are each received in a corresponding bearing slot and a pair of locking pins are each received in a corresponding lock recess. The face pack can be swung through a predetermined angle to release the locking pins from the lock recesses to allow the face pack to be removed from the outer housing by sliding the pivot pins out of the bearing slots and removing the locking pins from the lock recesses. The face pack can be inserted into the outer housing into a substantially horizontal service position by sliding both the pivot pins and the locking pins into the bearing slots.
US08498098B2 System for removably retaining a voltage converting device
Disclosed herein is a voltage converting system (10). The voltage converting system includes a housing (20) having a receptacle therein. The receptacle may removably receive a voltage converting device (50) such as a transformer, a power supply, or a driver.
US08498096B2 Electronic component
In an electronic component, a first capacitor conductor includes a first exposed portion exposed between insulating layers at a surface of a laminate including a first shorter side and two longer sides. A second capacitor conductor includes a second exposed portion exposed between the insulating layers at a surface of the laminate including a second shorter side and the two longer sides. First and second external electrodes are arranged on the laminate so as to cover the first and the second exposed portions, respectively. A first width of the first capacitor conductor in a region located between the second shorter side and a first straight line obtained by connecting two edges of the second external electrode is greater than a width of the first capacitor conductor in a region located between the first straight line and a straight line obtained by connecting two edges of the first external electrode.
US08498095B2 Thin-film capacitor with internally hollow through holes
A thin-film capacitor that is less prone to generation of internal cracking or peeling is provided. In a thin-film capacitor according to the present embodiment, because through holes H are formed in internal electrodes containing Ni as a principal component in a lamination direction, a surface area of at least some of the through holes H is in the range of 0.19 μm2 to 7.0 μm2, and a ratio of a surface area of the through holes H to a surface area of an entire main surface of the internal electrodes is in the range of 0.05% to 5%, peeling or cracking is suppressed from occurring at the boundaries between the internal electrodes and dielectric layers, and as a result, the yield is enhanced.
US08498091B2 Antistatic device assembly
An exemplary antistatic device assembly includes an electricity receiving part and an electricity discharging part. Guiding portions protrude from the electricity receiving part. The electricity discharging part is located at a side of the electricity receiving part, and oriented toward and spaced from the guiding portions of the electricity receiving part. The electricity discharging part is electrically conductive and capable of being grounded. Static electricity accumulated on the electricity receiving part is removable to the electricity discharging part via the guiding portions.
US08498089B2 Apparatus and method for sensing a current within a coil
A method of sensing a current within a coil, said current being applied to the coil such that it is switched via a switching transistor, includes a detection transistor, a circuit and a control element. The detection transistor is configured to sense the current. The circuit is configured to provide, at a predetermined point in time during a current sensing period, a voltage across the switching transistor. The control element is configured to match, in response to the voltage provided by the circuit, the working points of the switching transistor and of the detection transistor, and to output an output signal which corresponds to the current to be sensed.
US08498078B2 Magnetic head with flared write pole having multiple tapered regions
Methods for fabrication of tapered magnetic poles with a non-magnetic front bump layer. A magnetic pole may have a plurality of tapered surfaces at or near an air bearing surface (ABS), wherein a thickness of the write pole increases in a direction away from the ABS. A non-magnetic front bump layer may be formed on one or more of the tapered surfaces of the magnetic pole at a distance from the ABS. The front bump layer may increase the separation distance between a shield layer and the magnetic pole near the tapered surface, thereby improving the performance of the write head.
US08498067B2 Optical element holding apparatus, barrel, exposure apparatus, and manufacturing method for device
An optical element holding apparatus includes an annular vibration attenuation plate, which covers a peripheral portion of a lens, and a connection member, which is formed of a damping alloy and which fixes the vibration attenuation plate to a frame body in a state of non-contact with the surface of the lens. The vibration attenuation plate and nitrogen gas in a clearance between the vibration attenuation plate and the surface of the lens form a squeeze film damper.
US08498064B2 Imaging lens and imaging apparatus
An imaging lens includes: an aperture stop; a first lens having a positive refractive power; a second lens having a negative refractive power which is formed in a concave shape on both sides thereof; a third lens having a positive refractive power which is formed in a meniscus shape in which a concave surface is directed toward the side of an object; and a fourth lens having a negative refractive power in which a convex surface is directed toward the object side, which are sequentially disposed from the object side to the image side, wherein the imaging lens satisfies the following conditional expressions (1), (2), (3), (4) and (5): 0.4025.  (5)
US08498060B2 Lens barrel
A lens barrel is provided that includes an image optical system with an optical axis. The lens barrel has a first lens, a second lens, a guide shaft, and a driving unit, an adjusting mechanism, and a base frame. The adjusting mechanism is coupled to the guide shaft and has a first and a second portion. The first portion is deflectable and supports one end of the guide shaft. The second portion is configured to press against the first portion to deflect the first portion at an angle relative to the optical axis. The adjusting mechanism is configured to adjust the position of the guide shaft. The guide shaft is arranged to at least partially overlap the driving unit in the circumferential direction around the optical axis, and the first lens is arranged to at least partially overlap the adjusting mechanism in the radial direction relative to the optical axis.
US08498055B2 Space telescope system
A space telescope system includes, but is not limited to, a support platform configured to orbit astronomical object, a plurality of mirrors mounted to the support platform and spaced apart from one another, the plurality of mirrors being configured to reflect a plurality of focused beams, and a focal plane image combiner positioned to intersect the plurality of focused beams and configured to combine the plurality of focused beams to form a composite image.
US08498053B2 Spatial light modulator using electrowetting cells
A spatial light modulator for modulating light field amplitude comprises a surface relief grating adapted to act as a diffractive lens, where a material is used to fill at least one groove of a surface grating structure, such that a controllable refractive index birefringence of the material inside the surface relief grating is controlled by an electric field, which leads to a controllable intensity at a fixed focal point.
US08498050B2 Method of manufacturing array substrate, array substrate, method of manufacturing screen, and screen
A plurality of convex portions, or concave portions which is transferred in an array shape, and a groove are transferred with respect to the substrate having thermoplasticity by a mold member having shapes of the convex portion, or the concave portion, and a protruding portion as the groove, and substrate transfer processing is included, in which the convex portion, or concave portion, and a protruding portion which are formed in the mold member are transferred to the substrate by pressing the mold member to the substrate.
US08498039B2 Tri wavelength interference modulator and a method for modulation
The present invention relates to a tri wavelength interference modulator (TWIM) and a method of tri wavelength interference modulation. The tri wavelength interference modulator includes: a stationary substrate with a bottom electrode plate formed on top of the stationary substrate; a first electrode plate comprising a first suspended beam suspended in parallel above the stationary substrate and a first connection electrically connected onto the stationary substrate; and a second electrode plate comprising a second suspended beam suspended in parallel above the first electrode plate and a second connection electrically connected onto the stationary substrate. The inference modulator and the method for inference modulation are suitable to projection system.
US08498021B2 Image processing apparatus and image forming apparatus configured to calculate a misregistration amount
An image processing apparatus includes: a controller that causes an image forming unit to form an image so that a plurality of unit images are arranged in a first direction with a constant distance between adjacent unit images; an acquisition unit that acquires read image data indicating a position and a grey level value of each pixel constituting the image formed under control of the controller; and a calculation unit that calculates a misregistration with respect to the first direction of the image formed by the image forming unit, based on a convolution operation performed on the read image data acquired by the acquisition unit, the convolution operation using a reference periodic function whose variable is a position in the first direction.
US08498020B2 Image processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, and image processing method
An image processing apparatus includes: a color information acquiring unit that acquires color information of each scanning line of each head in a main scanning direction; and a correction unit that corrects a parameter used for a halftone process of a scanning line in the main scanning direction and a parameter used for a halftone process of an adjacent line adjacent to the scanning line, and, based on the acquired color information, corrects a difference in colors of the scanning line and the adjacent line.
US08498005B2 Initiating a conversion function of an information processing device through operation of an image forming device
There is provided an image forming system, comprising an image forming device and an information processing device communicatably connected to the image forming device. The image forming device comprises an information obtaining unit to obtain at least one of target data and information specifying the target data from one of internal and external memories; a transmission unit to transmit the obtained information to the information processing device; and a image formation unit to execute an image formation process for data generated by converting the target data into data having a data format which the image forming device is able to handle. The information processing device comprises a conversion unit configured to convert the target data into the data having the data format based on the obtained information; and a second transmission unit configured to transmit the converted data to the image forming device.
US08498003B2 Job log control method, computer readable medium for the same, image processing device, and image processing system
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a storage medium readable by a computer, the storage medium storing a program of instructions executable by the computer to perform a function for controlling a job log, comprising: generating a job log after execution of a job; creating a log image from an image handled in the job; and performing transfer of the job log and the log image to an external device with predetermined timing.
US08498002B2 Information processing apparatus capable of customizing device driver, information processing method, and control program
An information processing apparatus includes a processing unit and associated operating system (OS). The information processing apparatus further includes an application program including a driver customization unit to customize a device driver in the absence of registration of the device driver in an operable manner to the operating system. Even when a printer driver for use on a particular OS is not customizable, it is possible to produce a customized driver corresponding to the printer driver in a manner specified by a user, thereby allowing customization to be performed in a highly efficient manner.
US08498001B2 Digital printing station in a multi-station discrete media printing system
A multi-station discrete media printing system, comprising at least one digital printing station for imprinting objects, while they rest thereat, according to digital data supplied thereto. The digital printing station includes a digital printing subsystem, which cooperates with the system and includes at least one printhead that is operative to print an image or a pattern on each of the objects according to the supplied digital data, The digital printing subsystem preferably includes one or more printhead assemblies that are movable along at least one axis.
US08498000B1 Spool control device and non-transitory computer readable medium
A spool control device includes image data creation sections, a first measurement section, a spool section, a second measurement section, and a controller. Each of the image data creation sections interprets a page description language and creates a piece of image data acceptable by a printer. The first measurement section measures a creation speed with which the pieces of image data are created. The spool section spools the pieces of image data. The second measurement section measures an output speed with which the pieces of image data are output to the printer. The controller has first and second schemes of controlling an order in which the pieces of image data are written onto the spool section, selectively employs any of the first and second schemes on the basis of the creation speed and the output speed, and controls an order in which the pieces of image data are written.
US08497993B2 Field compensated static interferometer for fourier transform spectroscopy
A static interferometer comprises an entrance pupil, a splitter plate, a first mirror and a second mirror which are arranged in such a way that light beams originating from a collimated source are divided on the splitter plate, reflect on each of the mirrors and recombine while interfering at the output of the interferometer. The interferometer comprises a prismatic plate of index n comprising a variable thickness ej, the first beam passing through the prismatic plate before reflecting on a reflecting surface of the first mirror, the reflecting surface comprising a plurality of zones, each zone j being situated at a mean distance Δj from a reference plane. The reference plane being perpendicular to an optical axis and corresponding to a position of a plane mirror for which the optical path difference between the two interfering reflected beams is zero, each thickness ej being substantially equal to Δj·n/(n−1).
US08497979B2 Exposure method and exposure apparatus
In the present invention, when exposure on a first exposure area of the subject to be exposed by using a first mask pattern group of a photomask, is completed, the shutter is moved in synchronization with a conveying speed of the subject to be exposed to shut off source light, the subject to be exposed is returned by a distance in which the subject to be exposed moves while the shutter moves, and the mask pattern group is switched to a second mask pattern group by moving the photomask. When the switching of the mask pattern group of the photomask is completed, the conveying of the subject to be exposed is restarted. At the same time, the shutter is moved in synchronization with the conveying speed of the subject to be exposed to release the shut off of the source light, and exposure on a second exposure area is performed.
US08497978B2 Exposure apparatus and method of manufacturing device
An exposure apparatus includes an illumination system which illuminates an original, a projection optical system which projects a pattern of the original onto a substrate, a measurement device configured to measure optical characteristics of at least one of the illumination system or the projection optical system, and a control unit configured to correct, the measurement results obtained by the measurement device, depending on a polarization state included in illumination light from the illumination system.
US08497966B2 FFS type TFT-LCD array substrate and manufacturing method thereof
A manufacturing method for an FFS type TFT-LCD array substrate comprises: depositing a first metal film on a transparent substrate, and form a gate line, a gate electrode and a common electrode line by a first patterning process; depositing a gate insulating layer, an active layer film and a second metal film sequentially and patterning the second metal film and the active layer film by a second patterning process; Step 3 depositing a first transparent conductive film and patterning the first transparent conductive film, the second metal film and the active layer film by a third patterning process; depositing a passivation layer, forming a connection hole by patterning the passivation layer through the fourth patterning process, performing an ashing process on photoresist used in the fourth patterning process, depositing a second transparent conductive layer on the remaining photoresist, and forming a common electrode by a lifting-off process.
US08497959B2 Optical film and liquid crystal display
An optical film includes: a layer A formed of a resin composition P1 containing a resin x1 having a positive intrinsic birefringence value and a resin y1 having a negative intrinsic birefringence value; and a layer B formed of a resin composition P2 containing a resin x2 having a positive intrinsic birefringence value and a resin y2 having a negative intrinsic birefringence value. In the optical film, retardations R450, R550, and R650 at an incident angle of 0° satisfy the relationship of R450
US08497958B2 Reflective display devices
Example embodiment are directed to a reflective display device including a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) layer between a first substrate and a second substrate, and a mirror reflection plate on the first substrate.
US08497953B2 Prism sheet, and backlight unit and liquid crystal display device using prism sheet
Provided is a prism sheet which has high effects of suppressing Moiré fringes, high front luminance and reduced number of components when it is used as a prism sheet for a backlight unit for a liquid crystal display device. The prism sheet has a prism row having ridges formed in parallel to each other at equivalent intervals on one surface and a light diffusion layer containing porous particles on the other surface. The prism sheet preferably has the prism row on one surface and the light diffusion layer on the other surface by having a light-transmissive substrate in between.
US08497947B2 LCD panel capable of compensating the feed-through voltage
An LCD panel transmits the display data to sub-pixels in a zigzag pattern through a data line. The variation of the feed-through voltages of the sub-pixels may be modified by adjusting the ratios of the channel widths and the channel lengths of the TFTs in the sub-pixels to some predetermined ratios, or by adjusting the compensation capacitance to the coupling capacitance of the TFTs of the sub-pixels.
US08497946B2 Liquid crystal display device
A liquid crystal display device includes: first and second substrates facing and spaced apart from each other; a pixel electrode and a common electrode on an inner surface of the first substrate, the pixel electrode and the common electrode generating a horizontal electric field; a liquid crystal layer between the first and second substrates, wherein the liquid crystal layer includes a plurality of chiral nematic liquid crystal molecules having a helical axis parallel to a z direction normal to the first substrate and driven by the horizontal electric field, and wherein refractive indices of the liquid crystal layer along x and y directions (nx, ny) perpendicular to the z direction are the same as each other and a refractive index of the liquid crystal layer along the z direction (nx) is smaller than the refractive indices of the liquid crystal layer along the x and y directions (nznx=ny).
US08497944B2 Playback apparatus, playback method and program
A playback apparatus to play back content data including sound data includes an instruction operating portion to detect an instruction operation that instructs execution of prescribed processing, a hold operating portion to detect a hold setting operation that sets a state of not accepting the instruction operation to the instruction operating portion, a state control portion to set the state of not accepting the instruction operation to the instruction operating portion if the hold setting operation is detected by the hold operating portion, and a video processing portion to perform processing for displaying a video. If the video processing portion performs processing for displaying the video when the hold setting operation is detected, the state control portion controls the video processing portion to suspend at least a part of processing for displaying the video.
US08497942B2 User interface for audio video display device such as TV
In a grid based GUI system that scrolls, a pane in the grid showing a decimated view of a currently selected video does not scroll when the other panels in the grid scroll. In this way the viewer can always see the current video while navigating to other panels in the grid representing respective video content.
US08497940B2 High density wireless system
A method and apparatus for communicating within a wireless microphone system having a plurality of audio channels. The method includes the steps of dividing a small block of radio frequency spectrum associated with a single television broadcast channel into a plurality of at least 20 contiguous subchannels that are also contiguous with the boundaries of the television broadcast channel where each of the subchannels is less than 75 kHz and transmitting an audio signal from a microphone transmitter on one the plurality of subchannels through a transmitter with a radio frequency isolator or other means for suppressing intermodulation energy coupled to an antenna, the radio frequency isolator having a bandwidth no larger than any one of the plurality of divided subchannels; and receiving the audio signal through a microphone receiver.
US08497936B2 Display apparatus including receiving container receiving a camera module and a display panel
A display apparatus includes a display panel for display an image, a camera module and a receiving container. The camera module includes a lens part mounted on a printed circuit board. The receiving container includes a main receiving space receiving the display panel and a sub receiving space extended from the main receiving space and receiving the camera module.
US08497933B2 Scanning active illumination media
A method for obtaining an image of an actively lit medium (ALM) using a capture device and an illumination source, including: calibrating the capture device for dark signal non-uniformity (DSNU); determining a final exposure value and a final gain value by executing at least one scan of the ALM using the capture device with the illumination source extinguished; and generating the image by scanning, with the illumination source extinguished, the ALM using the capture device set to the final exposure value and the final gain value.
US08497930B2 Automatic focusing method and device in high-noise environment
An automatic focusing method and device in a high-noise environment are used for determining a focusing distance between a digital imaging device and an object to be photographed. The automatic focusing method includes the steps of capturing M pre-photographed images at different object distances respectively; loading the pre-photographed images; superposing every N (N
US08497928B2 Techniques to automatically focus a digital camera
Various embodiments are directed to techniques to automatically focus a digital camera. In one or more embodiments, a mobile electronics device may comprise a digital camera having a lens component and lens position component. A display may be coupled to the digital camera to reproduce an image with a first focal point. The digital camera may also include a focal point selection module coupled to the display to select a second focal point for the image and a focus control module coupled to the focal point selection module and the lens position component to provide focus control signals to the lens position component to focus the lens component on the second focal point. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08497926B2 Information processing apparatus, method, and program
An information processing apparatus includes a control unit for controlling a color gamut conversion method that converts a color gamut of content data into a desired color gamut in accordance with the use of the content data; and a color gamut conversion unit for performing the color gamut conversion with respect to the content data by a method based on the control of the control unit.
US08497920B2 Method, apparatus, and computer program product for presenting burst images
An apparatus for presenting burst images is provided. The apparatus may include a processor that may be configured to receive a plurality of burst images. Each burst image may differ from the other burst images based on a variable parameter, such as, but not limited to, exposure, focus, and/or time, or to the state of a target, such as the varying facial expression of a person. The processor may also be configured to provide for a presentation of a sample burst image. In this regard, the sample burst image may be one of the plurality of burst images. The processor may be further configured to receive a selected location within the presentation of the sample burst image and provide for a presentation of a plurality of burst image fragments associated with each of the plurality of burst images. In this regard, the burst image fragments may be portions of each of the burst images, where the areas of each burst image may be determined based on the selected location. Associated methods and computer program products may also be provided.
US08497917B2 Image stabilization system
An image stabilization system includes a fixed unit having a first receiving cavity therein, a movable unit received in the first receiving cavity, a pivot member located between the fixed unit and the movable unit, a magnetic motion sensor, and a magnetic driving module. The pivot member is received in and between the fixed unit and the movable unit. The magnetic motion sensor is disposed on the fixed unit for detecting a movement of the image stabilization system. The magnetic driving module is configured for rotating the movable unit around the pivot member to compensate for movement of the image stabilization system based on the motion detection result of the motion sensor.
US08497916B2 Image capture device changing cropping range of image based on magnitude of shake of the device, image generating method, and computer program thereof
An image capture device includes: an optical system for producing a subject image; an imager, which receives the subject image and outputs a signal representing an image including the subject image; a sensor for detecting the shake of the device itself by the movement of the device; and an image processing section, which receives the signal representing the image and crops and outputs a part of the image and which changes the cropping range of the image, thereby reducing the shakiness of the subject image in the image that has been caused by the shake of the device itself. The image processing section determines whether the cropping range of the image needs to be changed based on the shake of the device itself that has been detected by the sensor or based on the motion of the subject image.
US08497914B2 Vision system and method for motion adaptive integration of image frames
A night vision device and method for filtering a series of image frames that depict a moving subject, which thereby improves the signal-to-noise ratio of each image frame, is provided. A composite image is formed for each image frame by combining pixel values in a current image frame with pixel values in composite images corresponding to image frames acquired before the current image frame. Additionally, pixels values in image frames acquired subsequent to the acquisition of the current image frame are included when forming the composite image. A bi-directional recursive filter is used to weight the contributions from the previous composite images and subsequent image frames with a decay constant. Motion of the imaging system is optionally compensated for by establishing a moving reference frame and shifting the image frames to account for this motion; thus, registering the image frames before filtering the current image frame.
US08497903B2 Monitoring system and terminal device
A monitoring system for surveiling an object substance includes plural movable bodies periodically patrolling surveillance areas each having a prescribed area and acquiring image data and/or audio data showing statuses during a patrol, an area local control institution installed in each of the surveillance areas for receiving from the movable bodies and storing various data including the image data and/or audio data, plural communicating devices installed in the surveillance areas for functioning as access points for building up a wireless network and a terminal device the object substance takes along or is provided with.
US08497897B2 Image capture using luminance and chrominance sensors
Methods and apparatuses disclosed herein relate to image sensing devices. One embodiment may take the form of an image sensing device that includes a first image sensor for capturing a luminance image, a second image sensor for capturing a first chrominance, and a third image sensor for capturing a second chrominance image. The image sensing device may further include an image processing module for combining the luminance image captured by the first image sensor, the first chrominance image captured by the second image sensor, and the second chrominance image captured by the third image sensor, to form a composite image.
US08497894B2 Optical scanner and image forming apparatus
An optical scanning system for a K station includes a resin scanning lens and three reflecting mirrors. Two reflectance ratios are calculated: one being the reflectance ratio of a luminous flux traveling toward the scanning start position of a drum-shaped photosensitive drum and the other being the reflectance ratio of a luminous flux traveling toward the scanning end position of the photosensitive drum. The magnitude relation between the two reflectance ratios is such that the reflecting mirror has an inverse magnitude relation to that of the other reflecting mirrors. Moreover, the difference is calculated between the largest value and the smallest value of the reflectance ratio, where the reflectance ratio depends on the angle of deviation of the polygon mirror. The reflecting mirror has the largest difference among the three reflecting mirrors.
US08497893B2 Semiconductor device, optical print head and image forming apparatus
A semiconductor device includes three-terminal light emitting element array provided on a substrate, which includes a plurality of three-terminal light emitting elements which are substantially linearly arranged. Each three-terminal light emitting elements includes a first, second and third terminals. The third terminal is used to control a current between the first and second terminals. A Lead-out wiring portion is connected to the plurality of three-terminal light emitting elements. The three-terminal light emitting element array includes a common layer provided between two or more three-terminal light emitting elements adjacent to each other. The common layer mutually connects the second terminals (or the third terminals) of the two or three three-terminal light emitting elements. The lead-out wiring portion includes wirings led from the common layer and the plurality of three-terminal light emitting elements and extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to an arranging direction of the plurality of three-terminal light emitting elements.
US08497883B2 Information display device
To provide an information display device suitable for a portable terminal for displaying on a display screen images of actual printed pages. The information display device includes: storing means for storing various data and programs used to execute applications; controlling means for controlling program execution, data processing, and input/output devices; communication means for receiving image data and associated attribute data; inputting means for receiving event input generated by various operations; and displaying means for displaying the image data and attribute data on a display screen; wherein said information display device, when transmitting search data based on event input received by the inputting means, receiving XML data describing addresses and display positions of the corresponding image data and attribute data, and receiving and displaying the relevant image data and attribute data, the controlling means has prefetching means for storing image data associated with page changes from among the received image data constituting each page in a display region of the storing means based on a predetermined priority.
US08497882B2 Mobile terminal and user interface of mobile terminal
A mobile terminal including a display unit configured to display information; a touch layer configured to sense a touch input with respect to the display unit; a controller cooperating with the display unit and the touch layer and configured to: sense a touch input onto the display unit after the display unit displays the information, set a region of the display unit that includes a portion corresponding to the sensed touch input, and display on the display unit one or more graphical images corresponding to one or more selectable functions related to one or more contents displayed in the region. Further, the one or more selectable functions are matched to the corresponding one or more graphical images.
US08497878B2 Method and apparatus for determining image orientation
A method and apparatus for automatically deciding on the orientation of image. The method includes computing average and standard deviation of luminance of the top region of a portion of the image, of the bottom region of a portion of the image, of the left region of a portion of the image, and of the right region of a portion of the image, computing average luminance of the image, computing, in the digital signal processor, consolidated luminance difference and uniformity of top and bottom regions, and left and right regions, utilizing the computed average and standard deviation of at least one of the bottom region, the left region or the right region and utilizing portrait orientation if difLR−difTB>t1 && stdTB−stdLR>t2 or if difLR−difTB>t3 && stdTB−stdLR>t4, otherwise, utilizing landscape orientation.
US08497870B2 Color management detection
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to enhancing the visual distinction between color managed image elements and non-color managed image elements.
US08497861B2 Method for direct volumetric rendering of deformable bricked volumes
A method for rendering a deformable object. The method includes: obtaining a 3D volumetric voxel dataset of a region, such region having therein an object to be rendered; building a tree hierarchical structure for the obtained volumetric dataset, such tree structure blocks as the nodes of a primary tree hierarchy and bricks being those blocks stored as textures in a video memory; augmenting the primary tree hierarchical structure with maximum and minimum values of the data contained within a block; creating a neighborhood tree hierarchy having for each leaf block of the neighborhood tree hierarchy a reference to the neighboring leaf blocks in the neighborhood tree hierarchy as well as references to neighboring bricks in the neighborhood tree hierarchy; updating the information about minimum and maximum in the primary tree hierarchy by saving for each block the minimum and maximum of the neighboring blocks; and rendering the leaf blocks in visibility order.
US08497859B1 Display of information on or within a three-dimensional image
Methods and systems for displaying information on or within a three-dimensional (3D) image are described. In an example, a computing device may be configured to determine, based on a two-dimensional (2D) content displayed on a display device, an object depicted in the 2D content. The computing device may be configured to receive information indicative of a request to initiate a three-dimensional (3D) image viewer to view the object in the 3D image viewer. The computing device, accordingly, may be configured to provide rendering information associated with instructions for rendering in the 3D image viewer a 3D image representing a 3D object data model of the object on the display device. The computing device may be configured to provide, in the 3D image viewer, information relating to the object and including at least a portion of the 2D content.
US08497856B2 Light emitting device, method of driving light emitting device, and electronic apparatus
A light emitting device includes a pixel circuit and a driving circuit, the pixel circuit including a driving transistor, a light emitting element, a first capacitance element interposed between a gate and a source of the driving transistor, a selection transistor, a current generating unit which generates set current. The driving circuit controls the current generating unit to generate set current with a predetermined magnitude in a current set period before a writing period of writing data potential in the pixel circuit, to set the voltage (voltage between both ends of the first capacitance element) between the gate and the source of the driving transistor to a value necessary to allow the set current to flow in the driving transistor.
US08497855B2 Scan driving apparatus and driving method for the same
A scan driving apparatus, includes scan driving blocks, each including a first and a second input terminal where a frame start or a scan signal of an adjacent scan driving block is input during forward and backward direction driving, respectively, wherein each of the scan driving blocks transmits a first scan direction signal instructing forward scan driving to a first transistor adjusting a clock signal in accordance with a signal input to the first input terminal, transmits a second scan direction signal instructing backward scan driving to the first transistor in accordance with a signal input to the second input terminal, and outputs the clock signal as a corresponding scan signal, the even numbered ones of the scan driving blocks receive a first clock signal as the clock signal, the odd numbered ones of the scan driving blocks receive a second clock signal as the clock signal.
US08497853B2 Flat panel display device, controller, and method for displaying images
A flat panel display device, LCD controller and associated method is provided. The flat panel display device includes a display panel, a lamp for providing a backlight source for the display panel, a power transformation module for providing a power source for the lamp, a non-volatile storage unit for storing program code, and a display controller. The display controller includes an image processing module for processing image data and outputting processed results to the display panel, and a digital pulse width modulation module for adjusting on and off time of the power transformation module with reference to a synchronization signal.
US08497849B2 Touch module outputting sensed data array
A touch module outputting sensed data array, the touch module including a sensor array, and a sensed data array generator, the sensed data array generator including: a multiplexer, used to select one line from a plurality of scan output lines of the sensor array for delivering an analog sensed output signal, wherein the analog sensed output signal carries sensed array information of the sensor array; an analog to digital converter, used for converting the analog sensed output signal to a first digital signal, to provide a first sensed data array corresponding to the sensed array information; a memory, used for storing the first sensed data array; and an output control unit, used for transforming the first sensed data array to a second sensed data array.
US08497846B2 Touch detection method and touch detector using the same
A method for double click detection includes the following steps. Firstly whether first event is detected is determined, if so, first corresponding position is obtained, a period counting is triggered, and first flag is set. Then whether the period ends is judged; if not and the first flag exists, a counter is incremented and second flag is set when first ending event is detected; if not and the second flag exists, second corresponding position is obtained and third flag is set when second event is detected; if not and the third flag exists, the counter is incremented when second ending event is detected; if so, a double click event is determined when the incremented value is greater than a threshold and a distance between the first and the second positions is smaller a threshold.
US08497834B2 Signal output circuit, shift register, output signal generating method, display device driving circuit, and display device
A signal output circuit of the present invention is provided in a unit stage of a shift register. The signal output circuit includes a set-reset flip-flop, and a signal generation circuit for generating an output signal by loading or blocking a clock signal in accordance with a signal inputted thereto. The signal output circuit is arranged such that: the signal generation circuit receives a signal outputted from the flip-flop and the output signal fed back to the signal generating circuit; and the output signal is fed back to a reset input of the flip-flop. This makes it possible to achieve a reduction in the area of the circuit and a simplification of the circuit.
US08497833B2 Display device
A display device includes a light emission driver realized by using PMOS transistors, thereby controlling a light emitting time. The display device includes: a display unit including a plurality of scan lines for transmitting a plurality of scan signals, a plurality of data lines for transmitting a plurality of data signals, a plurality of light emitting signal lines for transmitting a plurality of light emitting signals, and a plurality of pixels coupled to the scan lines and the data lines and for emitting light according to the light emitting signals; and a light emission driver for transmitting the light emitting signals to the light emitting signal lines and for controlling a pulse width of the light emitting signals.
US08497827B2 Organic light emitting display and method for driving the same
A method of driving an organic light emitting display device includes generating a luminance map for a plurality of pixels by applying the same driving voltage to driving transistors formed in the plurality of pixels of a panel and by capturing luminances of the pixels, generating a threshold voltage map by calculating threshold voltage correction values that compensate for threshold voltages of the driving transistors associated with the luminances of the pixels. A lookup table is generated by sampling the threshold voltage correction values stored in the threshold voltage map. Threshold voltage correction values are restored by interpolating the sampled threshold voltage correction values, and correcting a driving voltage by adding the restored threshold voltage correction values to input gray level data and by providing the added value to the panel.
US08497825B2 Voltage programmed pixel circuit, display system and driving method thereof
A voltage programmed pixel circuit, display system having the pixel circuit and driving method thereof is provided. The pixel circuit includes a light emitting device, a driving transistor connected to the light emitting device and a programming circuit. The programming circuit adjusts a pixel current during a programming cycle of the pixel circuit.
US08497823B2 Semiconductor device and method of driving the semiconductor device
Display irregularities in light emitting devices, which develop due to dispersions per pixel in the threshold value of TFTs for supplying electric current to light emitting elements, are obstacles to increasing the image quality of the light emitting devices. An electric potential in which the threshold voltage of a TFT (105) is either added to or subtracted from the electric potential of a reset signal line (110) is stored in capacitor means (108). A voltage, in which the corresponding threshold voltage is added to an image signal, is applied to a gate electrode of a TFT (106). TFTs within a pixel are disposed adjacently, and dispersion in the characteristics of the TFTs does not easily develop. The threshold value of the TFT (105) is thus cancelled, even if the threshold values of the TFTs (106) differ per pixel, and a predetermined drain current can be supplied to an EL element (109).
US08497817B2 Stereoscopic image display panel and stereoscopic image display device including the same
Disclosed is a stereoscopic image display panel and a stereoscopic image display device including the same, which minimize the degradation of image quality due to crosstalk between left and right images discerned by a viewer, and have enhanced brightness and aperture ratio, wherein the stereoscopic image display panel comprises a first substrate including a plurality of data lines formed at certain intervals apart, a plurality of gate lines formed to intersect the data lines, and first and second pixel groups formed adjacently to each other with two adjacent gate lines therebetween; and a second substrate including a light shield layer formed at one side and other side of each of the first and second pixel groups to have different overlapped widths, and defining an open area of each of the first and second pixel groups, wherein the first and second pixel groups display different stereoscopic images, respectively.
US08497811B2 Printed dual-band antenna for electronic device
A printed dual-band antenna for an electronic device includes a substrate, a first monopole antenna and a grounding metal sheet. The first monopole antenna is formed on the substrate, and has an electrical length approximating to a quarter wavelength of a first frequency band and a three quarter wavelength of a second frequency band. The grounding metal sheet is formed on the substrate to be a ground of the first monopole antenna. A feeding terminal of the first monopole antenna, formed at a first side of the grounding metal sheet, divides the first side into a first edge and a second edge. Lengths of the first edge and the second edge approximate to a quarter wavelength of the second frequency band.
US08497806B2 Mobile wireless device with multi-band loop antenna with arms defining a slotted opening and related methods
A mobile wireless communications device may include a housing, a printed circuit board (PCB) carried by the housing. The device may also include an antenna coupled to wireless transceiver circuitry carried by the PCB. The antenna may include first and second feed legs extending upwardly from the PCB, a loop conductor spaced above the PCB and having a gap therein defining first and second ends, and a first conductor arm spaced above the PCB and extending between the first feed leg and the first end. The antenna may further include a second conductor arm spaced above the PCB and having a proximal portion between the second feed leg and the second end, and having a distal portion extending outwardly from the second feed leg. The first conductor arm and the proximal portion may define a slotted opening into an interior of the loop conductor.
US08497803B1 System and method for presenting flight tracking data to a user based upon the user's access permissions to various sources
A computer-implemented system and method for the processing and presentation of flight tracking data from a number of sources, with at least one source include a user access restriction, is disclosed. Substantially real-time flight tracking data is received over a digital network from a number of different sources and is stored in at least a database. Various determined flight paths are stores for a single flight based upon the number of flight data sources contributing data regarding that flight. Upon receiving a query from a user, the user's access with respect to the available data providers in retrieved and the best flight for the selected flight which is determined only from data that the requested user is authorized to access is presented. In one form, the results may be presented to the user in the form of digital map having an aircraft image and historical flight path shown.
US08497796B2 Methods and apparatus for controlling one or more electronic devices based on the location of a user
A method and apparatus are disclosed for controlling one or more electronic devices based on the location of a user. A remote control is configured by determining a location of a user; and automatically configuring the remote control with one or more menus that are appropriate for the location. The remote control may be, for example, a personal user interface. The user location can be determined, for example, using triangulation techniques by determining if the user is in proximity of a fixed Bluetooth device. The remote control may be automatically configured to present one or more menus for one or more of activities and a device located in the location.
US08497794B2 Analog-digital converter and signal processing system
An AD converter includes: AD conversion stages configured to generate digital data having a value corresponding to a relationship between two analog signals being input and amplifying two analog residual signals with a first amplifier and a second amplifier with gain to be controlled to output the signals; and a gain control part configured to control gain of the first amplifier and the second amplifier on the basis of a monitoring result of the output signals of the first amplifier and the second amplifier. The first amplifier and the second amplifier are formed of open-loop amplifiers, and the gain control part takes out amplitude information of the output signals of the first amplifier and the second amplifier in at least one of the AD conversion stages and performs gain control so that amplitude of the analog signals being output from the stage converges on setting amplitude being set.
US08497790B1 Gain calibration
A pipelined Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) includes circuitry to characterize capacitors associated with a Multiplying-Digital-to-Analog Converter (MDAC) of a stage of said pipelined ADC, said capacitors contributing to a gain of said pipelined ADC, circuitry to connect a subset of said capacitors not currently being characterized to reference signals of said pipelined ADC such that a residue signal of said stage stays within an input range of an instrument measuring said residue signal, circuitry to calculate said gain of said pipelined ADC using said capacitor characterizations, and an output adjusting component to digitally change an output of said pipelined ADC to compensate for said calculated gain.
US08497787B2 Systems and methods for performing efficient decoding using a hybrid decoder
Systems and methods for decoding data using a hybrid decoder are provided. A data signal that includes a codeword is received. A signal quality indicator for the data signal is computed. One of a plurality of decoders is selected based on the computed signal quality indicator. Each of the plurality of decoders is configured to decode information based on a different decoding technique. The codeword included in the data signal is decoded using the selected one of the plurality of decoders.
US08497784B1 Touch screen clickable crew alert system control
An integrated crew alert and checklist function system is configured to provide single touch direct access to critical checklists in response to a message in the crew alert message window. More particularly, the system is configured to display crew alert message in a crew alert system message window, and in response to a single touch of the crew alert message on the touch screen, the system is configured to automatically display a checklist corresponding to the crew alert message.
US08497782B2 Method and device for planning a path when parking a vehicle
A method and a device for planning a path when parking a vehicle (02) are described, in which a path (01) which comprises a first and second path arc (03; 04) is calculated on the basis of the geometry of a parking space (05) and a vehicle position relative to this parking space (05). According to the invention, at first a minimum appropriate first path arc (08) of the path (01) is calculated in order to reach a starting position as early as possible, and subsequently a possible larger first path arc (09) of the path (01) is preferably calculated as a function of an actual stopping position (13) of the vehicle (02). Furthermore, a driving assistance device for carrying out the method is described, as well as a computer program product which causes a microprocessor with associated storage means to carry out the method.
US08497771B2 Localization of tire for TPMS and smart entry system
A vehicle entry/tire pressure management system includes a plurality of tire sensors, a plurality of low frequency (“LF”) antennas and an ECU. Each tire sensor is mounted in a respective tire of the vehicle. Each LF antenna is mounted on the vehicle and is configured to transmit an LF field to wake up two tire sensors. Some antennas can also be configured to transmit a SMART entry LF search field to wake up a portable transmission/reception unit for keyless entry of the vehicle. The ECU is in communication with the tire sensors, via a receiver, and the LF antennas. The ECU is configured to receive identification signals from the respective tire sensors and to determine locations of the respective tire sensors based on which antenna woke up the tire sensor transmitting the respective identification signal and whether the respective identification signal matches other received identification signals.
US08497770B2 Low profile flexible light bar tachometer
The presented invention is a low profile light bar tachometer display which includes a plurality of RGB LEDs or similar RGB color model light-emitting devices organized and arrayed in a segmented, flexible tachometer case that can be manipulated and contoured to conform to the top of the dash assembly of an automobile or any surface deemed suitable for the needs of the driver of an automobile. The lights provide a highly visible, illuminated, color changing display, so the driver can immediately assess the engine's RPM, power band, redline, or maximum torque from the change in light color or light position. The light array provides a repeatable, reliable and adjustable indication of the usable range of the engine's rpm, but does not indicate actual rpm.
US08497765B2 Apparatus for communicating with RFID tag
The disclosure relates to an apparatus for communicating with an RFID tag: including a radio communication device; a tag number estimation portion configured to estimate the number of RFID tag circuit elements in a peripheral area of the apparatus; a storage device configured to store a list of identification information of each of a plurality of RFID tag circuit elements; and a mode switching portion configured to switch a mode into a plural tag detection mode in which identification information is sequentially specified in the list stored in the storage device before the RFID tag circuit element corresponding to the specified identification information is detected through the radio communication device, or a response determination mode in which identification information is obtained from each of all the RFID tag circuit elements in the peripheral area through the radio communication device.
US08497759B2 Leadless media protected fast response RTD sensor and method for making the same
The RTD device of the present invention is comprised of a semiconductor substrate and a substantially thin conductive metal layer disposed upon the semiconductor substrate, wherein the conductive metal has a substantially linear temperature-resistance relationship. The conductive layer is etched into a convoluted RTD pattern, which consequently increases the overall resistance and minimizes the overall mass of the RTD assembly. A contact glass cover and a conductive metal-glass frit are placed over the RTD assembly to hermetically seal the RTD. The resultant structure can be “upside-down” mounted onto a header or a flat shim so that the bottom surface of the semiconductor substrate is exposed to the external environment, thus shielding the RTD from external forces. The resultant structure is a low mass, highly conductive, leadless, and hermetically sealed RTD that accurately measures the temperature of liquids and gases and maintains fast response time in high temperatures and harsh environments.
US08497741B2 High accuracy RC oscillator
A device includes an RC oscillator circuit and incorporates various features that individually and in combination can help improve the stability or accuracy of the oscillator output frequency. The oscillator circuit is operable to provide a tunable output frequency and includes a bias circuit switchable between first and second modes of operation. One of the modes has less drift in oscillator bias current relative to the other mode. The device also includes drift compensation circuitry that is operable to compensate for drift in the oscillator output frequency in a closed-loop mode of operation based on a comparison of the oscillator output frequency with a reference frequency. The device further includes a processor operable to compensate for temperature-based drift in the oscillator frequency in an open-loop mode of operation based on a measured temperature value in the vicinity of the oscillator circuit.
US08497736B1 Direct DC coupled push-pull BJT driver for power amplifier with built-in gain and bias current signal dependent expansion
A power amplifier having a driver stage and an output stage is configured to provide an amplified RF input signal. The driver stage of the power amplifier consists of one or more driver circuits consisting of a network of transistors, current sources, capacitive elements and resistive elements. An RF input signal is fed into the driver stage which is configured to provide a dynamic DC bias and an RF signal gain to a base terminal of a Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT) power device present in the output stage. The output stage includes of a network of transistors, capacitive and resistive elements and when driven by the DC bias and the RF signal from the driver stage produces an amplified RF input signal at an output side of the output stage.
US08497728B2 Electronic control apparatus having switching element and drive circuit
An electronic control apparatus includes a switching element having a control terminal; an ON-drive constant-current circuit for supplying a constant current to the control terminal, thereby charging the control terminal of the switching element with electrical charge; an OFF-drive switching element for discharging electrical charge from the control terminal of the switching element by being turned ON; and a control circuit adapted to control the ON-drive constant-current circuit and the OFF-drive switching element in response to a drive signal being inputted, thereby controlling the voltage of the control terminal of the switching element to drive the switching element. The ON-drive constant-current circuit includes a current control transistor and a current detection element. The control circuit controls the current control transistor based on the voltage of the current detection resistor and detects abnormality in the ON-drive constant-current circuit based on a source-drain voltage of the current control transistor.
US08497727B2 Double pole double throw switch device
A double pole double throw switch device is provided. The device includes a first path circuit, a second path circuit, a third path circuit and a fourth path circuit. The first terminals of the first and second path circuits are coupled to a first port, and the second terminals of the first and second path circuits are respectively coupled to a third port and a fourth port. The first terminals of the third and fourth path circuits are coupled to a fourth port, and the second terminals of the third and fourth path circuits are respectively coupled to the second port and the third port. Each path circuit includes a switch module and a functional switch circuit. When a switch module is turned on, its corresponding functional switch circuit is turned off, and when the switch module is turned off, its corresponding functional switch circuit is turned on.
US08497724B2 Circuit and method for delaying signal
A delay circuit includes a delay unit configured to delay a reference input signal and generate a reference output signal and a storage unit configured to store a plurality of input signals in response to the reference input signal and output the stored signals in response to the reference output signal.
US08497721B1 Pass gate shadow latch
A latch device is provided with a relay and a shadow latch. The relay has an input to accept a binary relay input signal, an input to accept a clock signal, an input to accept a shadow-Q signal, and an output to supply a binary Q signal value equal to the relay input signal value. The relay output is supplied in response to the relay input signal, the shadow-Q signal, and the clock signal. The shadow latch has an input to accept the relay input signal, an input to accept the clock signal, and an output to supply the shadow-Q signal with a value equal to an inverted Q signal value. The shadow latch output is supplied in response to the relay input signal and clock signal.
US08497710B2 Low-offset current-sense amplifier and operating method thereof
A low-offset current-sense amplifier and an operating method thereof are disclosed. The low-offset current-sense amplifier includes a sense amplifier, a first current supply unit, a second current supply unit, and a processing unit. The first current supply unit is coupled to the sense amplifier, and includes a first transistor group and a first current output terminal. The second current supply unit is coupled to the sense amplifier, and includes a second transistor group and a second current output terminal. The processing unit controls the on/off of some transistors of the first transistor group and the second transistor group according to electric currents output from the first current output terminal and the second current output terminal, respectively.
US08497704B2 Methods and structure for source synchronous circuit in a system synchronous platform
Methods and circuits in an application circuit to compensate for skew in the transmission of serial data between field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) in the application circuit. A clock signal source external to both FPGAs generates a clock signal applied to both FPGAs. A transmitting FPGA generates a serial data stream comprising the current values of a plurality of signals within the transmitting FPGA and transmits the serial data stream based on its clock signal. The receiving FPGA receives the serial data stream and applies a programmed delay to the received serial data stream to compensate for skew in received serial data stream relative to its clock signal. The programmed delay value may be determined at initialization (or reset) of the FPGAs by transmitting synchronization data from the first transmitting FPGA to the receiving FPGA. The receiving FPGA adjusts a programmable delay while receiving synchronization data until it sense bit and word alignment relative to its clock signal.
US08497696B2 Test signal detection system having a probe with high-precision DC-voltage measurement
A test-signal detection system provides a probe, a first transmission line and a measuring device. The probe is connected to the measuring device by the first transmission line. The first transmission line transmits broadband test signals to the measuring device. The test-signal detection system provides at least one further transmission line. The probe is additionally connected to the measuring device at least indirectly by the at least one further transmission line. The at least one further transmission line transmits DC-voltage test signals to the measuring device.
US08497695B2 Semiconductor device with fault detection function
A semiconductor device (1) detecting damage to the peripheral part of a chip which could potentially grow into a defect includes: a wire (3) formed along the outer periphery of a semiconductor chip (2d) to detect damage; a detection circuit (4) provided in the semiconductor chip (2) to supply a detection signal to the wire (3) to detect a break in the wire (3); an output terminal (5) for outputting the detection signal having passed through the wire (3); an internal circuit (6) provided in the semiconductor chip (2); an output switching circuit (7) selecting either an output signal of the internal circuit (6) or the detection signal having passed the wire (3) for output to the output terminal (5); a heating element (15a) heating the peripheral part of the chip; a power supply circuit (16) supplying power to the heating element; and a temperature detection/control circuit (17) controlling the heating by the heating element. This configuration enables easy detection of damage to the chip by logic test without additional measurement terminals. The configuration also enables detection of chips which could develop a defect when packaged.
US08497692B2 Resistance measurement in high power apparatus environments
Systems and methods can be provided for measuring the resistance of high power apparatuses. A device can include a current source connectable to a test object, and the ability for measuring current and/or voltage, wherein the current source is a capacitor. By providing the current source as a capacitor, a light weight device is obtained which can be used essentially continuously without periods of non-use during recharging.
US08497685B2 Angular position sensor for a downhole tool
Aspects of this invention include a downhole tool having an angular position sensor disposed to measure the relative angular position between first and second members disposed to rotate about a common axis. A plurality of magnetic field sensors are deployed about the second member and disposed to measure magnetic flux emanating from first and second magnets deployed on the first member. A controller is programmed to determine the relative angular position based on magnetic measurements made by the magnetic field sensors. In a one exemplary embodiment, a downhole steering tool includes first and second magnets circumferentially spaced on the shaft and a plurality of magnetic field sensors deployed about the housing.
US08497673B2 Directional resistivity antenna shield
A logging while drilling tool includes a directional resistivity antenna and an antenna shield having. The shield has at least one slot having at least one electrically open end formed therein. The antenna shield may include a base portion and a plurality of spaced apart fingers extending away from the base portion such that the finger ends are electrically isolated from the tool body and from one another. The antenna shield may alternatively include a plurality of spaced apart plates that are electrically isolated from the tool body and from one another. These antenna shields have been found to provide suitable physical protection for sensitive antenna components while at the same time being substantially transparent to both z-mode and x-mode electromagnetic waves.
US08497670B1 Charge pump regulator circuit for powering a variable load
A charge pump regulator circuit includes a voltage controlled oscillator and a plurality of charge pumps. The voltage controlled oscillator has a plurality of inverter stages connected in series in a ring. A plurality of oscillating signals is generated from outputs of the inverter stages. Each oscillating signal has a frequency or amplitude or both that are variable dependent on a variable drive voltage. Each oscillating signal is phase shifted from a preceding oscillating signal. Each charge pump is connected to a corresponding one of the inverter stages to receive the oscillating signal produced by that inverter stage. Each charge pump outputs a voltage and current. The output of each charge pump is phase shifted from the outputs of other charge pumps. A combination of the currents thus produced is provided at about a voltage level to the load.
US08497667B2 Fast voltage regulators for charge pumps
A digital multilevel memory system includes a charge pump and a voltage regulator for generating regulated high voltages for various memory operations. The charge pump may include a plurality of boost circuits to boost the output of the charge pump during a fast start up. Afterwards, the boost circuits are disabled to allow the charge pump to generate high voltages without boosting. The boost circuits may be successively enabled to boost the voltage. The boost circuits may be loadless. The voltage regulator may operate in an open loop and may include a resistive divider as a reference voltage for regulating the high voltage from the charge pump. The charge pump may include spread spectrum pump clocking to reduce electromagnetic inference for capacitor or inductor on-chip charge pumping.
US08497666B2 Semiconductor device and power source device
A multi-phase power source device capable of easily changing the number of phases is realized. For example, a plurality of drive units POL[1]-POL[4] corresponding to the number of phases are provided, wherein each POL[n] receives a phase input signal PHI[n] serving as a pulse signal, and generates a phase output signal PHO[n] by delaying PHI[n] by a predetermined cycles of a clock signal CLK. PHI[n] and PHO[n] of each POL[n] are coupled in a ring, wherein each POL[n] performs a switching operation with PHI[n] or PHO[n] as a starting point. In this case, each POL[n] charges and discharges a capacitor Cct commonly coupled to each POL[n] with an equal current, and a frequency of CLK is determined based on this charge and discharge rate. That is, if the number of phases increases n times, the frequency of CLK will be automatically controlled to n times.
US08497654B2 Single phase AC synchronized motor
There is provided a single-phase AC synchronized motor that does not need smooth of rectifier waves but stably performs shift from a starting operation to a synchronized operation. In the motor, based on detected signals of a position sensor, rectified current is reciprocally flowed to each direction of a single-phase coil which starts the motor. The motor includes a start-up operation circuit with a sensor starting period that increases a rotational speed until reaching to a first predetermined rotational speed; and a control device that controls operation of the motor as that shift to synchronized operation is performed when a rotational speed of a permanent magnetic rotor is reached to a second predetermined rotational speed nearby a synchronized rotational speed but not exceeding the synchronized rotational speed, and when the rise and fall of detected signals of the position sensor and the zero-cross point of AC current are approximately correspondent to each other.
US08497628B2 Light emitting device and manufacturing method of the same
The present invention is directed to a light emitting device structured so as to increase the amount of light which is taken out in a certain direction after emitted from a light emitting element, and a method of manufacturing this light emitting device. An upper end portion of an insulating material 19 that covers an end portion of a first electrode 18 is formed to have a curved surface having a radius of curvature, a second electrode 23a is formed to have a slant face as going from its center portion toward its end portion along the curved surface. Light emitted from a light emitting layer comprising an organic material 20 that is formed on the second electrode 23a is reflected at the slant face of the second electrode 23a to increase the total amount of light taken out in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1A.
US08497623B2 Phosphor-containing resin composition and sheet, and light emitting devices employing them
Provided is a phosphor for a white light emitting device with a blue to ultraviolet light as a light source.A phosphor-containing resin composition comprising phosphor particles of at least one member selected from the group consisting of a nitride and an oxynitride, and a resin of at least one member selected from the group consisting of an epoxy resin, a silicone resin and a fluorine-containing resin.
US08497614B2 Winding plan for a segmented stator of a dynamo-electric machine
A segmented annular stator for a dynamo-electric machine is disclosed which simplifies transport and assembly of the machine. The segment has a cross section essentially shaped as a circular arc and includes a first and a second segment boundary configured for attachment to an additional segment, a corresponding coil associated with each phase of a three-phase system, a first conductor, and a second conductor. The first conductor is connected to the second conductor via an end connection in an area of end windings, such that a first coil associated with a first phase surrounds second and third coils associated with second and third phases of the three-phase system.
US08497613B2 Permanent magnet, manufacturing method thereof, and rotor and IPM motor
A manufacturing method for a permanent magnet includes the steps of a) producing a permanent magnet (1), b) fracturing the permanent magnet (1) to obtain two or more separate pieces (13), and c) restoring the permanent magnet (1) by fitting the fracture surfaces of adjacent separate pieces (13) together.
US08497611B2 Motor end frame
An end-frame of an electro-dynamic machine includes a bearing housing defining an annular bearing cavity for rotatably supporting a rotor shaft about an axis. A support body is coupled to the bearing housing. The support body has a terminal end and a base end opposite the terminal end. The base end includes a first radial support surface having a first diameter, a second radial support surface having a second diameter, and an annular wall axially disposed between the first radial support surface and the second radial support surface. A radial extension extends radially from the support body adjacent the terminal end. A mounting member extends axially from the radial extension portion. The mounting member defines an aperture for receiving a BX fitting.
US08497609B2 Restraining motor shaft play
An apparatus and associated method characterized by an enclosure having a side member that defines a substantially orthogonally directed cavity penetrating the side member. A motor shaft in the enclosure has a distal end that is operably aligned with the cavity. A shear transfer member in the enclosure is operably affixed to the motor shaft. One of the shaft and the shear transfer member is sized for a close mating engagement with the side member in the cavity, and the shear transfer member is further sized for being simultaneously shear coupled to the side member.
US08497607B2 Electric machine with integrated coolant temperature sensor
An electric machine including a housing, a stator mounted within the housing, a rotor rotatably mounted within the housing relative to the stator, and a coolant system fluidly connected to the housing. The coolant system delivers a flow of coolant through the housing. A coolant temperature sensor is arranged within the housing and exposed to the flow of coolant. The coolant temperature sensor configured and disposed to detect a temperature of the coolant in the housing.
US08497604B2 Apparatus and system for controlling power saving in bidet
Disclosed is an apparatus and system for controlling power saving. The system for controlling power saving includes: a battery supplying power; a power saving controlling apparatus including a sensing unit detecting a user's contact and generating an activation signal when a user's contact is acknowledged, a latch unit maintaining the activation signal which has been received from the sensing unit, and a switch unit disposed on a current path that delivers power, and connecting the current path according to the activation signal from the latch unit; and a microcomputer controlling an operation of the system connected upon receiving power from the power saving controlling apparatus.
US08497603B2 Portable electronic apparatus and connection method therefor
A portable electronic apparatus and a connection method therefore are disclosed. The portable electronic apparatus comprises a connector, a processing circuit, and a switch module. After a plug is plugged into the connector, the processing circuit reads a voltage value of the plug via the switch module. When determining that the voltage value of the plug is within a first voltage range, the processing circuit outputs switch signals to the switch module, so that an input signal of the plug is able to be transmitted to the processing circuit via the connector and the switch module. When determining that the voltage value of the plug is within a second voltage range, the processing circuit outputs other switch signals to the switch module, so that an output signal of the processing circuit is able to be transmitted to the plug via the switch module and the connector.
US08497601B2 Wireless energy transfer converters
Described herein are improved configurations for a wireless power converter that includes at least one receiving magnetic resonator configured to capture electrical energy received wirelessly through a first oscillating magnetic field characterized by a first plurality of parameters, and at least one transferring magnetic resonator configured to generate a second oscillating magnetic field characterized by a second plurality of parameters different from the first plurality of parameters, wherein the electrical energy from the at least one receiving magnetic resonator is used to energize the at least one transferring magnetic resonator to generate the second oscillating magnetic field.
US08497588B2 Method for controlling reversible electrical machine coupled to heat engine, start/stop system suitable for carrying out the method, and use thereof
The invention relates to a method for controlling a reversible electrical machine (14) coupled to a heat engine (13). The electrical machine comprises a field winding (20) which is fed by an excitation current and an armature comprising a plurality of phase windings (22) fed by phase currents. According to the invention, the excitation current of the electrical machine is controlled according to the instantaneous rotational speed of the machine and the torque of the heat engine. According to other characteristics, the excitation current is equal to a pre-determined nominal current when the torque of the engine is resistant and the instantaneous speed is slower than a first pre-determined rotational speed, and is weaker than the nominal current when the torque of the engine is driving or the instantaneous speed is faster than the first speed.
US08497583B2 Stress reduction in chip packaging by a stress compensation region formed around the chip
A stress compensation region that may be appropriately positioned on a package substrate may compensate for or at least significantly reduce the thermally induced mechanical stress in a sensitive metallization system of a semiconductor die, in particular during the critical reflow process. For example, a stressor ring may be formed so as to laterally surround the chip receiving portion of the package substrate, wherein the stressor ring may efficiently compensate for the thermally induced deformation in the chip receiving portion.
US08497573B2 High power semiconductor package with conductive clip on multiple transistors
In one implementation, a high power semiconductor package is configured as a buck converter including a control transistor, a sync transistor, a driver integrated circuit (IC) for driving the control and sync transistors, and a conductive clip extending from a sync drain on a top surface of the sync transistor to a control source on a top surface of the control transistor. The conductive clip may also connect to substrate pads such as a leadframe pad for current input and output. In this manner, the conductive clip provides an efficient connection between the control source and the sync drain by direct mechanical connection and large surface area conduction, thereby enabling a package with significantly reduced electrical resistance, form factor, complexity, and cost.
US08497569B2 Package substrates and semiconductor packages having the same
A package substrate, a semiconductor package having the same, and a method for fabricating the semiconductor package. The semiconductor package includes a semiconductor chip, a package substrate, and a molding layer. The package substrate provides a region mounted with the semiconductor chip. The molding layer is configured to mold the semiconductor chip. The package substrate includes a first opening portion that provides an open region connected electrically to the semiconductor chip and extends beyond sides of the semiconductor chip to be electrically connected to the semiconductor chip.
US08497567B2 Thin-film capacitor, multilayer wiring board and semiconductor device
A thin-film capacitor with first capacitative elements each having an electrode layer with a first polarity on an upper surface of a dielectric layer and an electrode layer with a second polarity on a lower surface of the dielectric layer; second capacitative elements each having an electrode layer with the second polarity on the upper surface and an electrode layer with the first polarity on the lower surface and arranged around a specific position alternately with the first capacitative elements; a single common connection hole at the specific position connecting all electrode layers with the first polarity of the first and second capacitative elements; and individual connection holes around the common connection hole connecting each electrode layer with the second polarity of the adjacent and second capacitative elements.
US08497562B2 Solid-state image pickup device
A solid-state image pickup device is provided which includes a substrate; a transistor formed on the substrate; a photoelectric conversion element including a first electrode connected to a drain or a source of the transistor, a semiconductor layer stacked on the first electrode, and a second electrode stacked on the semiconductor layer; an insulating layer disposed on the second electrode; and a bias line formed on the insulating layer to be connected to the second electrode, in which the insulating layer contains at least an inorganic insulating film, and the bias line is connected to the second electrode via a contact hole formed in the insulating layer, and a side surface of the semiconductor layer is in contact with the inorganic insulating film.
US08497550B2 Multi-level DRAM cell using CHC technology
A DRAM memory cell includes: a first finFET structure; and a second finFET structure adjacent to the first finFET structure. The second finFET structure includes: a source follower transistor in a first fin of the second finFET structure; an access transistor in a second fin of the second fin FET structure; a write word line; and a read word line stacked above the write word line. When the read word line is fired high, the source follower transistor enables data to be read from the first finFET structure.
US08497548B2 Semiconductor device including a MOS transistor and production method therefor
It is intended to provide a semiconductor device including a MOS transistor, comprising: a semiconductor pillar; a bottom doped region formed in contact with a lower part of the semiconductor pillar; a first gate formed around a sidewall of the semiconductor pillar through a first dielectric film therebetween; and a top doped region formed so as to at least partially overlap a top surface of the semiconductor pillar, wherein the top doped region has a top surface having an area greater than that of the top surface of the semiconductor pillar.
US08497508B2 Semiconductor device and manufacturing method thereof
A wiring line is electrically connected in parallel to an auxiliary wiring line via a plurality of contact holes. The contact holes are formed through an insulating film and arranged in vertical direction to the wiring line. Since the auxiliary wiring line is formed in the same layer as an electrode that constitutes a TFT, the electric resistance of the wiring line can be reduced effectively without increasing the number of manufacturing steps.
US08497506B2 Protecting semiconducting oxides
In transistor structures such as thin film transistors (TFTs) in an array of cells, a layer of semiconducting oxide material that includes a channel is protected by a protective layer that includes low-temperature encapsulant material. The semiconducting oxide material can be a transition metal oxide material such as zinc oxide, and can be in an active layered substructure that also includes channel end electrodes. The low-temperature encapsulant can, for example, be an organic polymer such as poly(methyl methacrylate) or parylene, deposited on an exposed region of the oxide layer such as by spinning, spincasting, evaporation, or vacuum deposition or an inorganic polymer deposited such as by spinning or liquid deposition. The protective layer can include a lower sublayer of low-temperature encapsulant on the exposed region and an upper sublayer of inorganic material on the lower sublayer. For roll-to-roll processing, a mechanically flexible, low-temperature substrate can be used.
US08497504B2 Thin film transistor and display unit
A thin film transistor with which oxygen is easily supplied to an oxide semiconductor layer and favorable transistor characteristics are able to be restored and a display unit including the same. The thin film transistor includes, sequentially over a substrate, a gate electrode, a gate insulting film, an oxide semiconductor layer including a channel region, and a channel protective layer covering the channel region A source electrode and a drain electrode are formed on the oxide semiconductor layer located on both sides of the channel protective layer, and at least one of the source electrode and the drain electrode has an aperture to expose the oxide semiconductor layer.
US08497503B2 Manufacture of photovoltaic devices
A method and apparatus for depositing a film on a substrate includes subjecting material to an energy beam.
US08497502B2 Thin film field effect transistor and display
A thin film field effect transistor includes at least: a substrate; and a gate electrode, a gate insulating layer, an active layer, a source electrode and a drain electrode, and a protective layer provided on the substrate in this order from the substrate side. The active layer is a layer containing an amorphous oxide containing at least one metal selected from the group consisting of In, Sn, Zn and Cd. The thin film field effect transistor further includes, between the active layer and at least one of the source electrode or the drain electrode, an electric resistance layer containing an oxide or nitride containing at least one metal selected from the group consisting of Ga, Al, Mg, Ca and Si.
US08497496B2 Display device and method of manufacturing the same
A display device includes: a pixel including a plurality of light emitting elements each formed by sequentially stacking a first electrode layer, an organic layer, and a second electrode layer, spaced apart from each other in a first direction orthogonal to the stacking direction thereof, and emitting light emission colors different from each other; and an auxiliary wiring layer electrically connected to the second electrode layer. A plurality of the pixels are aligned in the first direction so as to include a gap which is larger than a gap between the light emitting elements adjacent to each other, and the auxiliary wiring layer is provided between the pixels adjacent to each other.
US08497488B2 Bell-shaped protection system for a device for treating electron-beam containers
A treatment device includes one or more treatment stations each including an electron-beam emitter and supporting device for supporting a container beneath the emitter, the emitter being capable of emitting an electron beam passing through the upper opening of a container supported by the supporting means, so as to sterilize the container, and a protection system for stopping the radiation emitted by the emitter(s). The protection system includes an upper portion connected to the emitter, lower portion connected to the supporting device and a moving device capable of moving the upper portion relative to the lower portion, between a retracted position and at least one operative position in which the portions from a protective enclosure in which the emitter and container are positioned.
US08497487B2 Sample holder with optical features
A sample holder for holding a sample to be observed for research purposes, particularly in a transmission electron microscope (TEM), generally includes an external alignment part for directing a light beam in a predetermined beam direction, a sample holder body in optical communication with the external alignment part and a sample support member disposed at a distal end of the sample holder body opposite the external alignment part for holding a sample to be analyzed. The sample holder body defines an internal conduit for the light beam and the sample support member includes a light beam positioner for directing the light beam between the sample holder body and the sample held by the sample support member.
US08497480B2 Particle radiotherapy apparatus
In order to provide a particle radiotherapy apparatus with high sensitivity for detecting annihilation radiation pairs, an elliptic detector ring of a particle radiotherapy apparatus according to this invention makes rotating movement relative to a top board. Specifically, with rotation about a base axis of a first ring and a second ring, the elliptic detector ring makes rotating movement in a state of being tilted relative to the first ring. Incidentally, the elliptic detector ring cannot be disposed in a position to interfere with travel of this particle beam. According to the construction of this invention, the elliptic detector ring is tilted relative to the top board, and besides makes rotating movement relative to the top board. Since the elliptic detector ring can be moved away from the particle beam by rotating the elliptic detector ring, it is possible to provide the particle radiotherapy apparatus which can detect annihilation radiation while emitting the particle beam.
US08497464B2 Detector arrangement having increased sensitivity
To increase the sensitivity of detector arrangements, it is known that light deflection elements in the form of a line arrays having spherical elements may be used to focus incident light onto light-sensitive regions of the detector. Manufacturing such line arrays is complex and cost intensive, especially in small lot numbers. The increased sensitivity of the detector array can be achieved easily and inexpensively by using a novel light deflection element. The detector arrangement therefore has a light deflection element having light entrance surfaces, deflecting incident light by refraction onto light-sensitive regions of the detector. Light entrance surfaces of the light deflection element are inclined with respect to one another and are designed as planar surfaces. The detector arrangement is suitable in particular for detection of light emanating from a specimen in a microscope, preferably in a laser-scanning microscope.
US08497458B2 Photoelectric conversion apparatus and image pickup system for detecting a value of signals output from a plurality of pixels
A photoelectric conversion apparatus is configured to include a plurality of pixels, a first output unit that detects a maximum value of signals output from the plurality of pixels, a second output unit that detects a minimum value of signals output from the plurality of pixels, and a signal output line via which to output signals of the first output unit and the second output unit such that when the maximum value is detected, the signal output line is charged by a source current flowing through the first output unit, while when the minimum value is detected, the signal output line is discharged by a sink current flowing through the second output unit.
US08497440B2 Push switch
A flexible button of a push switch includes a peripheral side wall having an opening at the bottom. A switch board is fitted in the opening of the peripheral side wall. A switch is provided on the switch board. A tubular case is fixed in place around the peripheral side wall. A stopper is disposed under the switch board, and latched on the inner face of the case. Filler fills the underside of the switch board, and fills at least an area that includes the entire peripheral length of the bottom periphery of the switch board and the bottom-end inner peripheral face of the peripheral side wall.
US08497438B2 Emergency stop device
The invention relates to a switching device comprising:—a first assembly (1) comprising an actuation member (10) that can take a rest position and an actuation position;—a second assembly (2) mounted on the first assembly (1) and comprising a mobile bridge (22) bearing mobile contacts (221) actuated with respect to fixed contacts (201) between an opening position and a closing position so as to respectively open or close an electrical circuit according to the position of the actuation member (10), in which:—the mobile bridge (22) is actuatable in rotation about an axis of rotation (A) and can take a third position so as to open the electrical circuit when the first assembly (1) is mechanically disconnected from the second assembly (2).
US08497435B2 Cable mounting structure for electric apparatus
A cable mounting structure for an electric apparatus is provided which ensures sealing properties, such as waterproof properties and dustproof properties, and which can effectively contribute to downsizing, while easing restrictions on the size of a connecting tool mounted on one end of a cable connected to an electric apparatus body. The cable mounting structure comprises a housing (10) for accommodating an electric apparatus body, a cable (11) connected to the electric apparatus body via a second connector (12) or the like, a grommet (20) mounted on the cable (11), a recessed housing section (15) provided in the housing (10), and a lid (30) for closing the recessed housing section. The recessed housing section is formed in a closed-bottomed tubular shape recessed inwardly of the housing. A grommet mounting hole for fixing the grommet (20) thereto is formed in a peripheral wall section (15a) of the recessed housing section, and a pass-through section (31) through which the cable is passed is formed in the lid. The connecting tool is disposed within the recessed housing section, and the pass-through section is positioned to the grommet.
US08497434B2 Printed circuit board and manufacturing method thereof
A printed circuit board and a manufacturing method of the same are disclosed. The method includes: preparing a carrier including a primer resin layer formed thereon; forming a circuit pattern on the primer resin layer; stacking the carrier onto an insulating layer such that the circuit pattern is buried in the insulating layer; removing the carrier; forming a via hole in the insulating layer on which the primer resin layer is stacked; and forming a conductive via in the via hole. The conductive via is formed by forming a plating layer in the via hole and on the primer resin layer and removing a portion of the plating layer formed over the primer resin layer.
US08497430B2 Display device
A display device includes a display panel and a touch panel disposed so as to overlap with the display panel. The display panel is connected to a first flexible wiring board on which a plurality of first wirings are arranged. The touch panel is connected to a second flexible wiring board on which a plurality of second wirings are arranged. The plurality of second wirings of the second flexible wiring board are connected to second connection terminals. The plurality of first wirings of the first flexible wiring board are connected to first connection terminals. The first connection terminals and the second connection terminals are electrically connected to each other.
US08497415B2 Piano hammer
The invention relates to a piano hammer for striking the strings of a piano, including a hammer shank and a hammer head, which is covered with a cover along at least part of its peripheral surface. The aim of the invention is to provide an improved piano hammer which can be tuned in a simple and reproducible, especially also reversible, manner. According to the invention, the cover has a varying thickness along the peripheral surface and the hammer head can be adjusted with respect to the position of its peripheral surface with which it impacts the one or more string(s) to be struck.
US08497408B2 Treatment for high pressure bleeding
High-pressure bleeding wounds (and other bleeding wounds) may be treated by applying direct pressure directly in the bleeding wound, such as by applying a back pressure in a confined space around and in the wound. Certain substances and articles may be inserted into the wound, and the wound may be enclosed with that substance or article (such as a hemostatic substance, which may be polymeric), by swelling on contact with molecules (such as water molecules in the blood) encountered in the wound, generates the desired pressure to stop or at least reduce the bleeding without the detrimental effects of a tourniquet. Clot-inducing substances may be introduced into the wound contemporaneously with direct pressure application directly in the wound. Compressible and non-compressible wounds are treated. Treatment stops bleeding without producing pressure injury or ischemic damage. Medical devices using this technology are provided, including removable, biodegradable, medic-administrable devices.
US08497400B2 Homogeneous asymmetric hydrogenation process
Provide that a useful catalyst for homogeneous hydrogenation, particularly a catalyst for homogeneous asymmetric hydrogenation for hydrogenation, particularly asymmetric hydrogenation, which is obtainable with comparative ease and is excellent in economically and workability, and a process for producing a hydrogenated compound of an unsaturated compound, particularly an optically active compound using said catalyst with a high yield and optical purity.
US08497399B2 Process for preparing aminoalkyl nitriles and diamines from such nitriles
A process for preparing a diamine from a corresponding aminoalkyl nitrile, which is prepared by reaction of a corresponding monoamine with a corresponding alkenyl nitrile in a continuous mode of operation, comprising the steps: a) introduction of the corresponding monoamine into a continuously conveyed reaction stream; b) introduction of the corresponding alkenyl nitrile into the reaction stream, with this already comprising the aminoalkyl nitrile on addition; c) reaction of the reaction stream in a first reaction region; d) at least partial transfer of the reaction stream into at least one second reaction region for further reaction; e) discharge of the reaction stream from the second reaction region after the reaction; f) introduction of the reaction stream discharged in step (a) into a reduction region; and g) reduction of the aminoalkyl nitrile present in the reaction stream to the corresponding diamine.
US08497396B2 Methods and intermediates for preparing pharmaceutical agents
The invention provides methods and intermediates that are useful for preparing a compound of formula I: and salts thereof.
US08497393B2 Process to prepare treprostinil, the active ingredient in Remodulin®
This present invention relates to an improved process to prepare prostacyclin derivatives. One embodiment provides for an improved process to convert benzindene triol to treprostinil via salts of treprostinil and to purify treprostinil.
US08497388B2 Phospholipid-analogous compounds
Phospholipid-analogous compounds of the general formula (I) in which a is b is where R1 and R2 are, independently of one another, hydrogen, a saturated or unsaturated acyl or alkyl radical which can optionally be branched or/and substituted, where the total of the carbon atoms in the acyl and alkyl is 16 to 44 C atoms, s is an integer from 0 to 8, c is a radical of a primary or secondary alcohol of the formula RO—, where R is a saturated or unsaturated alkyl radical, mainly with cis double bond, of froth 12 to 30 carbon atoms, n is an integer from 2 to 8, R3 a can be 1,2-dihydroxypropyl or b can be alkyl with 1 to 3 C atoms when z is >0 or c can be alkyl with 1 to 3 carbon atoms when n≠2 and z=0, m is 1 or 2, x is an integer from 0 to 8, y is 1 for z=1 to 5 or is 1 to 4 for z=1 z is an integer from 0 to 5, are novel and are suitable as liposome constituents, solubilizers and pharmaceuticals.
US08497387B2 Process for preparing divinylarene dioxides
A process for preparing a divinylarene dioxide comprising reacting a divinylarene, such as divinylbenzene, with hydrogen peroxide in the presence of a solvent and in the presence of a catalyst to from a divinylarene dioxide; wherein the hydrogen peroxide is present in the reaction mixture in an excess or an equivalent mole ratio per mole of divinylarene.
US08497381B2 Antagonists of prostaglandin D2 receptors
Described herein are compounds that are antagonists of PGD2 receptors. Also described are pharmaceutical compositions and medicaments that include the antagonists of PGD2 receptors described herein, as well as methods of using such antagonists of PGD2 receptors, alone and in combination with other compounds, for treating respiratory, cardiovascular, and other PGD2-dependent or PGD2-mediated conditions or diseases.
US08497375B2 Method of synthesis of ferroquine by convergent reductive amination
The invention relates to a method of synthesis of ferroquine of formula (F) or of its metabolite of formula (Fm): comprising a reaction of reductive amination, said reaction comprising: (i) a stage of condensation of an aldehyde-amino ferrocene of formula (III), in which R represents a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, with 7-chloroquinolin-4-amine as shown below, followed by (ii) a stage of reduction of the product of condensation obtained in the preceding stage and (iii) then a stage of hydrolysis of the reaction mixture in the presence of an aqueous solution of ammonia or of citric acid.
US08497373B2 Phosphonic acid compounds as inhibitors of serine proteases
The present invention is directed to phosphonic acid compounds useful as serine protease inhibitors, compositions thereof and methods for treating inflammatory and serine protease mediated disorders.
US08497371B2 Pipemidic acid derivative autotaxin inhibitors
Novel and optimized classes of pipemidic acid derivative compounds that exhibit effective inhibition of autotaxin enzymes are provided. Such classes of compounds exhibit exhibit reactivity with autotaxin to ultimately reduce the size of the reactive sites thereon to prevent conversion of lysophosphatidyl choline to lysophophatidic acid. Furthermore, such compounds can be incorporated within delivery forms for human ingestion. As such, these compounds accord an excellent manner of potentially reducing generation of certain cancers attributable to the presence of naturally occurring autotaxin within the human body. Methods of inactivating autotaxin to certain degrees therewith such compounds are encompassed within invention as well.
US08497368B2 Heterocyclic hydrazone compounds
The invention relates to compounds of formula (I) and salts thereof: wherein the substituents are as defined in the specification; a compound of formula (I) for use in the treatment of the human or animal body, in particular with regard to c-Met tyrosine kinase mediated diseases or conditions; the use of a compound of formula (I) for manufacturing a medicament for the treatment of such diseases; pharmaceutical compositions comprising a compound of the formula (I), optionally in the presence of a combination partner, and processes for the preparation of a compound of formula (I).
US08497358B2 Antibody purification method
Provided is a purification method that purifies an antibody to a high purity, effectively removes antibody polymer (or aggregate), and improves antibody recovery rate. An antibody purification method including a step for treating a solution containing an antibody by mixed mode chromatography in the presence of an amino acid is provided.
US08497348B2 Agonists of guanylate cyclase useful for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation, cancer and other disorders
The invention provides novel guanylate cyclase-C agonist peptides and their use in the treatment of human diseases including gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation or cancer (e.g., a gastrointestinal cancer). The peptides can be administered either alone or in combination with an inhibitor of cGMP-dependent phosphodiesterase. The gastrointestinal disorder may be classified as either irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, or excessive acidity etc. The gastrointestinal disease may be classified as either inflammatory bowel disease or other GI condition including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and cancer.
US08497334B2 Conjugated diene polymer, conjugated diene polymer composition, and method for producing conjugated diene polymer
A conjugated diene polymer comprising a constitutional unit based on a conjugated diene and a constitutional unit based on a compound represented by Formula (1) below, R1Si(OR2)mR3nR4(3-m-n)  (1) wherein m represents 1 or 2; n represents 1 or 2; m+n=2 or 3; R1 represents a hydrocarbyl group having a polymerizable carbon-carbon double bond; R2 represents a hydrocarbyl group, and, when there are plural R2s, R2s each may be the same or different; R3 represents an aryl group that may have an oxygen-containing substituent, and, when there are plural R3s, R3s each may be the same or different; and R4 represents an alkyl group or a substituted amino group.
US08497327B2 Hydrogenated β-pinene-based polymers and molded articles comprising the same
The present invention provides hydrogenated β-pinene-based polymers with excellent heat resistance and light resistance, low absorptivity and high transparency, as well as molded articles thereof. The polymers of the present invention contain 50% by mass or more of β-pinene units and are hydrogenated β-pinene-based polymers where the ratio of the proton integral value at 6 to 8 ppm to the total proton integral value in a 1H-NMR spectrum is 2.3×10−5 or less or the p-phenylene group content is 0.0055% by mass or less, and the ratio of the proton integral value at 4.5 to 6 ppm to the total proton integral value is 2.8×10−4 or less or the cyclohexene-1,4-diyl group content is 0.29% by mass or less. The molded articles of the present invention contain the above hydrogenated β-pinene-based polymers.
US08497326B2 Antistatic ionomer composition and articles therewith
Disclosed are ionomer compositions neutralized by a combination of cesium and potassium that have antistatic properties. Also disclosed are articles, including laminates and monolayer or multilayer structures comprising such compositions to which neither powders nor dusts easily adhere electrostatically.
US08497325B2 Thermoplastic polyolefin blends and films therefrom
This invention relates to a film comprising a blend composition comprising: 1) a linear ethylene containing polymer, such as a LLDPE, a HDPE or the like; and at least 1 weight percent of an in-reactor polymer blend comprising: (a) a first ethylene containing polymer having a density of greater than 0.90 g/cm3 and a Mw of more than 20,000 g/mol; and (b) a second ethylene containing polymer having a density of less than 0.90 g/cm3, wherein the polymer blend has a Tm of at least 90° C. (DSC second melt), a density of less than 0.92 g/cm3, and the densities of the first and second polymers differ by at least 1%.
US08497324B2 Methods of increasing toughness of immiscible polymer blends
An immiscible polymer blend that includes an amount of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) and an amount of poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA). A method for preparing an immiscible polymer blend by (a) identifying a first polymeric component and a second polymeric component as immiscible when blended; (b) combining the first polymeric component and the second polymeric component; and (c) mixing the first polymeric component and the second polymeric component to produce an immiscible polymer blend that includes structures in the blend having a maximum size of less than about 1,000 μm is also presented. An article that includes an immiscible polymer blend of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) and poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) and an article formed from an immiscible polymer blend prepared by the method of the present invention are also presented.
US08497323B2 Powder of vinyl polymer containing silicone polymer and method for producing the same, resin composition, and shaped article
Disclosed is a method for producing powder of a vinyl polymer containing a silicone polymer, which comprises the step of spray-drying a latex of the vinyl polymer containing a silicone polymer obtained by polymerization of a vinyl monomer in the presence of a latex of the silicone polymer, wherein 3.0 mmol or less of a sulfate is contained in 100 g of the powder of a vinyl polymer containing a silicone polymer. According to the present invention, a powder which can provide a shaped article excellent in impact resistance and hydrolysis resistance in the case when the powder is blended in a resin such as polycarbonate resin can be obtained.
US08497322B2 Peelable polyethylene films
A homogenous blend comprising from 10% to 90% by weight of a metallocene catalyzed polyethylene (mPE) and from 90% to 10% by weight of styrene-butadiene block copolymers comprising from 5% to 40% by weight of 1,3 butadiene monomer units and from 60% to 95% by weight of styrene monomer unites. The blend of the invention is used to make peelable films for food packaging applications.
US08497321B2 Tacky resin composition and pressure-sensitive adhesive film or sheet
A tacky resin composition which has proper initial tackiness, is sufficiently inhibited from rising in tackiness with time, can keep tackiness at a proper range even when it receives a slight heat history or is stored for a long time, has very small dependence on peeling speed, and can provide high transparency to a pressure-sensitive adhesive film or sheet as required, and a pressure-sensitive adhesive film or sheet for the surface protection of an article, which is obtained form the tacky resin composition. The tacky resin composition comprises (A) 5 to 80 parts by weight of an olefin polymer (component A), (B) 5 to 80 parts by weight of an ethylene/unsaturated ester copolymer (component B) and (C) 1 to 60 parts by weight of a styrene-based elastomer and/or an olefin-based elastomer (component C) based on 100 parts by weight of the total of the components A, B and C.
US08497316B2 Crosslinkable and foaming polyester-polyurethane (hybrid) resin moulding compositions, with foaming characteristics for closed mould applications
It concerns a crosslinkable and foaming polyester-polyurethane resin moulding composition, comprising: an A component, comprising: A1) at least one poly-functional isocyanate compound, and A2) at least one free radical polymerization initiator a B component, comprising by weight: B1) 100 parts of at least one polyol resin comprising: —B11) 50 to 80 parts of at least one ethylenically unsaturated polyester polyol—B 12) 20 to 50 parts of at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer, with, B11), being the reaction product of: a) an acid component comprising: a1) at least one ethylenically unsaturated diacid, and a2) at least one saturated diacid with a1/a2 molar ratio so varying to have an unsaturation content in B11) from 0.25/1 to 5/1, and, b) a diol component in excess with respect to component a) B2) from 0.01 to 1.1 parts of water, B3) optionally, up to 35% of at least one hydroxy alkyl (meth)acrylate, B4) at least one catalyst of the isocyanate/hydroxyl reaction, B5) at least one accelerator for the free radical initiator decomposition, B6) at least one foam stabilizer, B7) optionally, fillers and/or other additives the said composition being free of any primary or of secondary amine and of any polyol of low Mw chain extender. The invention further relates to a process of preparation and specific uses in light weight articles in sanitary, building or automotive uses.
US08497315B2 Method for producing dispersions and use thereof
The present invention pertains to a process for the preparation of aqueous dispersions which are stabilized with a water-insoluble stabilizing colloid, characterized in that a) in a first step a water-insoluble stabilizing colloid is prepared, with this being prepared, based on the amount of monomer used for the preparation of the stabilizing colloid, by means of radical polymerization, followed by b) the addition of at least one further olefinically unsaturated monomer and at least one initiator, in which process by means of radical polymerization of the further olefinically unsaturated monomer an aqueous dispersion is obtained, on which c) optionally a residual monomer reduction is performed, with this being carried out by means of polymerization of residual monomers and/or by means of physical removal of the residual monomers and optionally further volatile organic components by means of the introduction of vapor and/or gas.
US08497312B2 One-package dental adhesive composition
An adhesive composition comprising (A) a polymerizable monomer component containing not less than 5% by mass of an acidic group-containing polymerizable monomer, (B) a polyvalent metal ion-eluting filler, (C) a volatile organic solvent, and (D) water, wherein the polyvalent metal ion-eluting filler (B) is blended in such an amount that the amount of the polyvalent metal ions eluted out from the filler becomes 1.0 to 7.0 meq per gram of the polymerizable monomer component (A), the volatile organic solvent (C) is blended in an amount in a range of 30 to 150 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the polymerizable monomer component (A) and so as to satisfy 20·X parts by mass or more (X is a number representing the amount of elution of the polyvalent metal ions), and the water (D) is blended in an amount of 3 to 30 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the polymerizable monomer component (A). The composition maintains a large strength of adhesion to the teeth, can be preserved in the form of one package, and can be used as a material for pre-treating the teeth and as a dental adhesive.
US08497307B2 Aryl guanidine F1F0-ATPase inhibitors and related methods
The invention provides to a family of aryl guanidine—based F1F0—ATPase inhibitors, e.g., mitochondrial F1F0—ATPase inhibitors, methods for their discovery, and their use as therapeutic agents for treating certain disorders.
US08497284B2 C-met modulators and method of use
The present invention provides compounds for modulating protein kinase enzymatic activity for modulating cellular activities such as proliferation, differentiation, programmed cell death, migration and chemoinvasion. More specifically, the invention provides quinazolines and quinolines which inhibit, regulate, and/or modulate kinase receptor, particularly c-Met, KDF, c-Kit, flt-3 and flt-4, signal transduction pathways related to the changes in cellular activities as mentioned above, compositions which contain these compounds, and methods of using them to treat kinase-dependent diseases and conditions. The present invention also provides methods for making compounds as mentioned above, and compositions which contain these compounds.
US08497275B2 HCV protease inhibitors and uses thereof
This invention relates to: (a) compounds of formula I and salts thereof that, inter alia, are useful as hepatitis C virus (HCV) inhibitors; (b) intermediates useful for the preparation of such compounds and salts; (c) pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and salts; and (d) methods of use of such compounds, salts, and compositions.
US08497272B2 Compounds for treating proliferative disorders
Disclosed are compounds and methods of using compounds of the invention for treating a subject with a proliferative disorder, such as cancer, and methods for treating disorders responsive to Hsp70 induction and/or natural killer induction. Also, disclosed are pharmaceutical compositions comprising compounds of the invention and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
US08497271B2 Modulators of G protein-coupled receptor 88
The present disclosure is generally directed to compounds which can modulate G-protein coupled receptor 88, compositions comprising such compounds, and methods for modulating G-protein coupled receptor 88.
US08497267B2 Method for treating a sleep disorder with a dosage form of besylate salts of zopiclone or eszopiclone
Besylate salts of (6-(5-chloro-2-pyridyl)-5-[(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)carbonyloxy]-7-oxo-6,7-dihydro-5H-pyrrolo[3,4-b]pyrazine) are provided.
US08497266B2 3-(3-pyrimidin-2-ylbenzyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-b]pyridazine derivatives as MET kinase inhibitors
Compounds of the formula (I), in which R1, R2, R3, R3′, R4 have the meanings indicated in Claim 1, are inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, in particular of Met kinase, and can be employed, inter alia, for the treatment of tumors.
US08497259B2 Cholesterol control agent
There is proposed a method for using a preparation for lowering the cholesterol level of a patient. In preferred embodiments, the preparation essentially consists of an active substance being an aqueous solution of formaldehyde with a concentration of 36.5-40%, the active substance constitutes 2-6 weight units, and an additive being an isotonic solution of sodium chloride with a concentration of 0.85-0.95%, the additive constitutes from 998 to 994 weight units accordingly, to make the total of 1000 weight units. The method includes administering the preparation to the patient in the form of intramuscular injections with a predetermined dose at a predetermined time interval, thereby lowering the cholesterol level of the patient. It is preferable to choose the predetermined time interval from the group consisting of 7, 21, 30, and 60 days. It is also preferable to choose the predetermined dose in the amount of 5 mL.
US08497258B2 Viscous budesonide for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract
Provided herein are methods for preventing or alleviating the symptoms of and inflammation associated with inflammatory diseases and conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, for example, those involving the esophagus. Also provided herein are pharmaceutical compositions useful for the methods of the present invention.
US08497251B2 Methods and compositions for treating HIV infection
A method for treating latent HIV infection is disclosed. The method includes administering to a subject in need of such treatment an effective amount of an anti-IκBα agent, an anti-IκBε agent or both; and administering to the subject an effective amount of an antiviral agent. A pharmaceutical composition for treating latent HIV infection is also disclosed.
US08497245B2 Trypsin-like serine protease inhibitors, their preparation and use as selective inhibitors of the clotting factors IIa and Xa
The invention provides methods of making and using compounds of the formula: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; wherein n is an integer between 1 and 2 inclusively; m is an integer between 0 and 2 inclusively; X is selected from the group consisting of CH or N; R1 is selected from the group consisting of —CH2NH2, and R2 is selected from the group consisting of —H, —OH, —NH2 and acetyl; R3 is selected from the group consisting of —H, benzyloxycarbonyl and benzylsulfonyl; and R4 is selected from the group consisting of —OH, wherein p is an integer between 0 and 2 inclusively, Y is selected from the group consisting of —O—, —S—, —S(═O)—, —SO2—, methylene, —CH(OH)—, —CH(NH2)—, —CH(CH2—OH)—, —CH(CH2—NH2)— or —N(R6)—, R5 is selected from the group consisting of —H or a simple (C1-C3) alkyl and R6 is selected from the group consisting of —H, a simple (C1-C3) alkyl or a simple (C1-C3) acyl. These compounds are useful as anticoagulant agents as a result of their selective dual inhibition of thrombin and prothrombinase.
US08497242B2 Processes for intermediates for macrocyclic compounds
The present invention is directed to novel macrocyclic compounds of formula (I) and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts, hydrates or solvates: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, n1, m, p Z1, Z2, and Z3 are as describe in the specification. The invention also relates to compounds of formula (I) which are antagonists of the motilin receptor and are useful in the treatment of disorders associated with this receptor and with or with motility dysfunction.
US08497240B2 DPP-IV resistant GIP hybrid polypeptides with selectable properties
The present invention relates generally to novel GIP analogs and GIP hybrid polypeptides with selectable properties, useful as agents for the treatment and prevention of metabolic diseases and disorders, for example those which can be alleviated by control plasma glucose levels, insulin levels, and/or insulin secretion, positive inotropic effects, reduction of catabolic effects, slowing of gastric emptying. Such conditions and disorders include, but are not limited to, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders, critical care, insulin-resistance, obesity, and diabetes mellitus of any kind, including type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
US08497237B2 Compositions comprising enzyme-cleavable oxycodone prodrug
The embodiments provide Compound KC-7, N-1-[(S)-2-(oxycodone-6-enol-carbonyl-methyl-amino)-2-carbonyl-sarcosine-ethyl amine]-arginine-glycine-acetate, or acceptable salts, solvates, and hydrates thereof. The present disclosure also provides compositions, and their methods of use, where the \compositions comprise a prodrug, Compound KC-7, that provides controlled release of oxycodone. Such compositions can optionally provide a trypsin inhibitor that interacts with the enzyme that mediates the controlled release of oxycodone from the prodrug so as to attenuate enzymatic cleavage of the prodrug.
US08497233B2 Stripping compositions for cleaning ion implanted photoresist from semiconductor device wafers
A composition for removal of high dosage ion implanted photoresist from the surface of a semiconductor device, the composition having at least one solvent having a flash point >65° C., at least one component providing a nitronium ion, and at least one phosphonic acid corrosion inhibitor compound, and use of such a composition to remove high dosage ion implanted photoresist from the surface of a semiconductor device.
US08497231B2 Evolved orthogonal ribosomes
There is provided a method for evolving an orthogonal rRNA molecule, comprising the steps of: providing one or more libraries of mutant orthogonal rRNA molecules and introducing the libraries into cells such that the orthogonal rRNA is incorporated into ribosomes to provide orthogonal ribosomes; providing one or more orthogonal mRNA molecules which (i) are not translated by natural ribosomes, and (ii) comprise one or more orthogonal mRNA codons; assaying the translation of the orthogonal mRNA and selecting the orthogonal rRNA molecules which translate the orthogonal mRNA, wherein the assay in step (c) requires translation of one or more orthogonal mRNA codons in the orthogonal mRNA; and orthogonal ribosomes incorporating such rRNA molecules.
US08497229B2 Granular controlled release agrochemical compositions and process for the preparation thereof
A granular agrochemical composition is disclosed including a granular core material having a water soluble portion with a first coating layer applied on the surface of the core material and a second coating layer applied on the surface of the first coating layer. The first coating layer includes a wax composition having a biologically active ingredient incorporated therein and the second coating layer includes a polymeric composition. The granular agrochemical composition exhibits a controlled rate of release of the biologically active ingredient therefrom over a period greater than about 30 days from the date of initial exposure of the granular composition to moisture whereby essentially all of the biologically active ingredient incorporated in the wax material of the first coating layer is released from the granular composition before the water soluble portion of the granular core material is released from the granular composition.
US08497224B2 Process for preparing a catalyst substrate
The invention comprises a process for manufacturing a catalyst substrate which is a shaped porous structure, said process comprising the steps of providing non-woven fibers with an average length in the range of 4-50 mm, an average diameter in the range of 5-300 microns, and a length over diameter ratio in the range of 50 to 500 into a mould to form a fibrous aggregate with volume (V), and compressing the fibrous aggregate to form a porous structure. The compression is carried out in such a manner that the volume of the fibrous aggregate in compressed state (Vcompressed) is at most 90% of the volume (V) of the fibrous aggregate before compression. The invention further relates to the catalyst substrate prepared and to a catalyst comprising the catalyst substrate.
US08497222B2 Alumina-magnesia material for a gasifier
A molten and cast refractory material having a chemical composition, in weight percent on the basis of oxides, of: —Al2O3: the remainder up to 100%; —MgO: 28% to 50%; —CuO: 0.05% to 1.0%; —B2O3: ≦1.0%; —SiO2: <0.5%; —Na2O+K2O: <0.3%; —CaO: <1.0%; —Fe2O3+TiO2: <0.55%; —and other oxide species: <0.5%.
US08497219B2 Highly temperature-resistant and chemically resistant glass and glass fiber having improved UV light transmission and the use thereof
A highly temperature-resistant and chemically resistant glass and a glass fibre which have an improved UV light transmission, and the use thereof in UV-curable composites are disclosed. The glass/glass fibre according to the invention has a transition temperature >920° C., a light transmission of 80-92%, and consists of 58-62% SiO2, 11.0-15.5% Al2O3, 20-25% CaO, 0.1-0.8% MgO, 0.04-1.2% Na2O, 0.1-1.2 K2O, 0.2-1.8% TiO2, 0.05-0.5% Fe2O3 and 0.002-0.085 Cr2O3.
US08497217B2 Film forming apparatus and film-forming method
A film forming apparatus and a film forming method for suppressing a drop in the film forming speed caused by-product gas are provided. A film forming apparatus for forming a film on a wafer includes a chamber in which the wafer is located; a gas introducing member configured to introduce raw material gas into the chamber, in which the raw material gas turning into by-product gas and a substance which adheres to the surface of the wafer by reacting at a surface of the wafer; and a reverse reaction member configured to generate the raw material gas by causing the by-product gas to react in the chamber.
US08497214B2 Semiconductor device manufacturing method
A semiconductor device manufacturing method, the method including: forming a semiconductor element on a semiconductor substrate; and by using microwaves as a plasma source, forming an insulation film on the semiconductor element by performing a CVD process using microwave plasma having an electron temperature of plasma lower than 1.5 eV and an electron density of plasma higher than 1×1011 cm−3 near a surface of the semiconductor substrate.
US08497203B2 Semiconductor structures and methods of manufacture
Semiconductor structures with airgaps and/or metal linings and methods of manufacture are provided. The method of forming an airgap in a wiring level includes forming adjacent wires in a dielectric layer. The method further includes forming a masking layer coincident with the adjacent wire and forming a first layer on the masking layer to reduce a size of an opening formed in the masking layer between the adjacent wires. The method further includes removing exposed portions of the first layer and the dielectric layer to form trenches between the adjacent wires. The method further includes forming an interlevel dielectric layer upon the dielectric layer, where the interlevel dielectric layer is pinched off from filling the trenches so that an airgap is formed between the adjacent wires. A metal liner can also be formed in the trenches, prior to the formation of the airgap.
US08497198B2 Semiconductor process
A semiconductor process is described as follows. A plurality of dummy patterns is formed on a substrate. A mask material layer is conformally formed on the substrate, so as to cover the dummy patterns. The mask material layer has an etching rate different from that of the dummy patterns. A portion of the mask material layer is removed, so as to form a mask layer on respective sidewalls of each dummy pattern. An upper surface of the mask layer and an upper surface of each dummy pattern are substantially coplanar. The dummy patterns are removed. A portion of the substrate is removed using the mask layer as a mask, so as to form a plurality of fin structures and a plurality of trenches alternately arranged in the substrate. The mask layer is removed.
US08497194B2 Methods of forming doped regions in semiconductor substrates
Some embodiments include methods of forming one or more doped regions in a semiconductor substrate. Plasma doping may be used to form a first dopant to a first depth within the substrate. The first dopant may then be impacted with a second dopant to knock the first dopant to a second depth within the substrate. In some embodiments the first dopant is p-type (such as boron) and the second dopant is neutral type (such as germanium). In some embodiments the second dopant is heavier than the first dopant.
US08497189B1 Processing method for wafer
A wafer has, on a front face thereof, a device region in which a device is formed in regions partitioned by a plurality of scheduled division lines. An outer peripheral region surrounds the device region. A reflecting film of a predetermined width is formed from the outermost periphery of the wafer on a rear face of the wafer corresponding to the outer peripheral region. The front face side of the wafer is held in a chuck table, and a focal point of a pulsed laser beam of a wavelength having permeability through the wafer is positioned in the inside of the wafer corresponding to the scheduled division lines. The pulsed laser beam is irradiated from the rear face side of the wafer to form modified layers individually serving as a start point of division along the scheduled division lines in the inside of the wafer.
US08497186B2 Semiconductor devices and methods for forming patterned radiation blocking on a semiconductor device
Several embodiments for semiconductor devices and methods for forming semiconductor devices are disclosed herein. One embodiment is directed to a method for manufacturing a microelectronic imager having a die including an image sensor, an integrated circuit electrically coupled to the image sensor, and electrical connectors electrically coupled to the integrated circuit. The method can comprise covering the electrical connectors with a radiation blocking layer and forming apertures aligned with the electrical connectors through a layer of photo-resist on the radiation blocking layer. The radiation blocking layer is not photoreactive such that it cannot be patterned using radiation. The method further includes etching openings in the radiation blocking layer through the apertures of the photo-resist layer.
US08497179B2 Method of fabricating multi-fingered semiconductor devices on a common substrate
A method of fabricating p-type metal oxide semiconductor (PMOS) transistor devices on a common substrate is presented. The method provides a first portion of semiconductor material and a second portion of semiconductor material on the common substrate. The first portion of semiconductor material and the second portion of semiconductor material are insulated from each other. The method continues by creating first PMOS transistor devices using the first portion of semiconductor material. The first PMOS transistor devices include stressor regions that impart compressive stress to channel regions of the first PMOS transistor devices. The method also creates second PMOS transistor devices using the second portion of semiconductor material. The second PMOS transistor devices do not include channel stressor regions.
US08497175B2 Method of fabricating FinFET devices
A semiconductor device is fabricating using a photoresist mask pattern, and selectively removing portions of a liner nitride layer in a cell region and a peripheral circuit region. A modified FinFET is formed to reduce the influence of signals transmitted by adjacent gate lines in a cell region. A double FinFET and a substantially planar MOSFET are formed in a core region and in a peripheral region, respectively, concurrently with the formation of the modified FinFET.
US08497168B2 Structure and method to enhance both NFET and PFET performance using different kinds of stressed layers
In producing complementary sets of metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) field effect transistors, including nMOS and pMOS transistors), carrier mobility is enhanced or otherwise regulated through the use of layering various stressed films over either the nMOS or pMOS transistor (or both), depending on the properties of the layer and isolating stressed layers from each other and other structures with an additional layer in a selected location. Thus both types of transistors on a single chip or substrate can achieve an enhanced carrier mobility, thereby improving the performance of CMOS devices and integrated circuits.
US08497167B1 EDS protection diode with pwell-nwell resurf
A high voltage ESD protection diode wherein the p-n junction is defined by a p-well and an n-well and includes a RESURF region, the diode including a field oxide layer formed on top of the p-well and n-well, wherein the parameters of the diode are adjustable by controlling one or more of the junction width, the length of the RESURF region, or the length of the field oxide layer.
US08497158B2 Leadframe strip and mold apparatus for an electronic component and method of encapsulating an electronic component
A leadframe strip comprises a plurality of units arranged in a line. Each unit provides two component positions, each having a chip support substrate. The chip support substrates of the two component positions are mechanically linked by at least one support bar. The two component positions of a unit are molded at essentially the same time to produce a plastic housing for a package in each component position. The central portion of the first support bars remains outside of the plastic housing of the two packages.
US08497145B2 Method for producing an optoelectronic component and optoelectronic component
A method for producing an optoelectronic component including providing a radiation-emitting device, heating the device and applying a liquid lens material in a beam path of the device, wherein, with crosslinking of the lens material, a lens shaped onto the device is formed.
US08497143B2 Reflective pockets in LED mounting
An LED device with improved LED efficiency is presented. An LED die is positioned within a pocket formed by a substrate and an opening in a supporting layer arranged thereon. The increase in the LED efficiency is achieved by providing a device where at least a portion of the pocket surface is reflective. This portion of the pocket surface is reflective because it is covered by either a reflective layer of foil or film, or a reflective coating, or it is polished.
US08497137B2 Smart hydrogel particles for biomarker harvesting
Capture particles for harvesting analytes from solution and methods for using them are described. The capture particles are made up of a polymeric matrix having pore size that allows for the analytes to enter the capture particles. The pore size of the capture particles are changeable upon application of a stimulus to the particles, allowing the pore size of the particles to be changed so that analytes of interest remain sequestered inside the particles. The polymeric matrix of the capture particles are made of co-polymeric materials having a structural monomer and an affinity monomer, the affinity monomer having properties that attract the analyte to the capture particle. The capture particles may be used to isolate and identify analytes present in a mixture. They may also be used to protect analytes which are typically subject to degradation upon harvesting and to concentrate low an analyte in low abundance in a fluid.
US08497122B2 Biomarkers for Niemann-pick C disease and related disorders
Methods for screening or diagnosing subjects for disorders involving accumulation of one or more oxysterols such as cytotoxic oxysterol accumulation, Niemann-Pick C(NPC) disease, lysosomal storage diseases, cholesterol trafficking diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Also provided are methods for methods for screening or diagnosing subjects (including infants and neonatal subjects) for NPC disease, methods for monitoring the progression, remission, and clinical status of NPC disease, and methods for evaluating the efficacy of therapeutic treatment of NPC disease.
US08497116B2 Heterotrophic microalgae expressing invertase
The invention provides methods of manufacturing oils and oil-based products such as transportation fuels, industrial chemicals, lubricants and plastics using sugar cane, sugar cane juice, corn steep liquor, corn starch or depolymerized cellulosic material as a feedstock for bioproduction processes. Oils are manufactured using microalgae expressing sucrose invertase, which allows the microalgae to produce oil using sucrose-based feedstocks, along or in combination with other feedstocks.
US08497115B2 Methods for producing secreted polypeptides
The present invention relates to methods for producing a polypeptide, comprising: (a) cultivating a fungal host cell in a medium conducive for the production of the polypeptide, wherein the fungal host cell comprises a nucleic acid construct comprising a first nucleotide sequence encoding a signal peptide operably linked to a second nucleotide sequence encoding the polypeptide, wherein the first nucleotide sequence is foreign to the second nucleotide sequence and the 3′ end of the first nucleotide sequence is immediately upstream of the initiator codon of the second nucleotide sequence. The present invention also relates to the isolated signal peptide sequences and to constructs, vectors, and fungal host cells comprising the signal peptide sequences operably linked to nucleotide sequences encoding polypeptides.
US08497103B2 Methods for C4-dicarboxylic acid production in filamentous fungi
The present invention relates to methods of producing C4-dicarboxylic acids, such as malic acid, comprising: (a) cultivating a host cell comprising a polynucleotide encoding a C4-dicarboxylic acid transporter; and (b) recovering the C4-dicarboxylic acid. The present invention also relates to methods for increasing C4-dicarboxylic acid production, as well as host cells comprising the polynucleotides.
US08497091B2 Method of producing compound originating from polysaccharide-based biomass
A method of producing a compound originating from a polysaccharide-based biomass includes at least one of a saccharification step that produces a sugar solution containing a monosaccharide and/or an oligosaccharide from a product obtainable by hydrolyzing the polysaccharide-based biomass; a fermentation step that ferments the sugar solution containing the monosaccharide and/or oligosaccharide originating from the polysaccharide-based biomass; and a treatment that removes a fermentation inhibitor with the use of a separation membrane having a glucose removal rate and an isopropyl alcohol removal rate which simultaneously satisfy the following relationships (I) and (II) when a 500 ppm aqueous glucose solution at pH 6.5 at 25° C. and a 500 ppm aqueous isopropyl alcohol solution at pH 6.5 at 25° C. are respectively permeated through the membrane at an operation pressure of 0.5 MPa, prior to the saccharification step and/or in the step prior to the fermentation step: Glucose removal rate≧80%  (I) Glucose removal rate−Isopropyl alcohol removal rate≧20%  (II).
US08497085B2 Method for detecting a wound infection
Described herein is a method for detecting a wound infection comprising the steps of: contacting a sample obtained from a wound with at least two substrates for at least two enzymes selected from the group consisting of lysozyme, elastase, cathepsin G and myeloperoxidase, and detecting a wound infection when a conversion of the at least two substrates with said at least two enzymes are determined.
US08497081B2 Botulinum toxin screening assays
Methods for detecting BoNT/A activity in a sample, methods for screening molecules able to compete with BoNT/A receptor binding, methods for reducing BoNT/A activity in a human and methods of marketing a neurotoxin capable of selectively binding to a FGFR2, a FGFR3, a SV2, or any combination thereof, to a governmental or regional regulatory authority.
US08497080B2 Methods for determining signal transduction activity in tumors
The method of the invention pertains to determining signal transduction activity in a tissue section by immunohistochemistry techniques. The expression level of the receptor of interest is determined as well as the expression levels of one or more effector molecules of the receptor signal transduction pathway. Furthermore a combined ratio of expression levels of effector molecules in subcellular compartments with the receptor expression was found to have prognostic significance.
US08497076B2 Methods for detecting pre-diabetes and diabetes using differential protein glycosylation
Methods for identifying individuals who are not yet diabetic (pre-diabetic), but who are at significant risk of developing diabetes, such as type 2 diabetes, are disclosed herein. Methods are also provided for the identification of diabetic subjects. Also disclosed are methods for identifying individuals with diabetic complications. The methods include the identification of an overall glycosylation profile of proteins in a biological fluid, such as saliva, urine, or serum. In some examples, the methods include determining the amount of one or more protein in a biological fluid or determining the glycosylation pattern of one or more proteins in a biological fluid.
US08497067B2 Restoration of nucleic acid from degraded or formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue and uses thereof
This invention provides methods, primers and kits for restoration of nucleic acid from tissue, in particular degraded tissue and formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue, where the methods involve complementary-template reverse-transcription (CT-RT) where short single-stranded DNA sequences reverse-transcribed from mRNA are used for reverse-transcription of complementary sense-RNA templates. The methods can be used to determine patterns of gene expression and chromosomal alterations in archived tissue samples, and may be used to identify expression of disease-related genes.
US08497065B2 Methods and kits for extraction of DNA
Methods and materials are disclosed for use in recovering a biopolymer from a solution. In particular, the invention provides methods for extraction and isolation of nucleic acids from biological materials. The nucleic acids can be separated by forming a stable complex with soluble polysaccharide polymers and magnetic particles, in the presence of detergents and solvent. When the particles are magnetically separated out of the solution, the nucleic acids are separated with them. The nucleic acids can subsequently be released and separated from the particles. The nucleic acid preparation is useful for achieving efficient and accurate results in downstream molecular techniques such as quantification, identification of the source of the nucleic acids, and genotyping.
US08497056B2 Magenta toner
A magenta toner characterized by satisfying, in DSC measurement, 40.0≦Tg(0.5)≦60.0 and 2.0≦Tg(4.0)−Tg(0.5)≦10.0, wherein when preparing a solution of which the magenta toner is dissolved in ethyl acetate, and defined the concentration of the thereof as Cm1 (mg/ml), and the light absorbance thereof at a wavelength of 538 nm as A(ethyl acetate)538, the ratio of A(ethyl acetate)538 to Cm1 satisfies the formula, A(ethyl acetate)538/Cm1<0.15, and, when preparing a solution of which the magenta toner is dissolved in chloroform, and defined the concentration of the thereof as Cm2 (mg/ml), and the light absorbance thereof at a wavelength of 538 nm as A(chloroform)538, the ratio of A(chloroform)538 to Cm2 satisfies the formula, 2.00
US08497054B2 Toner
Provided is a toner in which faulty transfer under an extremely-low-temperature, low-humidity environment hardly occurs, including toner particles and a zeolite as an external additive, in which a ratio of the alminium atoms to a total of the silicon atoms and the aluminium atoms contained in the zeolite is 0.2 to 24.0%.
US08497051B2 Method and composition for producing optical elements having a gradient structure
A composition for producing optical elements having a gradient structure, particularly for holographic applications, is formed by a refractive index gradient. The composition is produced from one or more polymerizable and/or polycondensable monomers and at least one biological polymer. A potential difference is generated for the directed diffusion of the monomers by inducing a local polymerization or polycondensation. The result is the formation of a refractive index gradient.
US08497048B2 Fuel cell separator having airtight gasket
The present invention provides a fuel cell separator having an airtight gasket, in which a gasket is integrally injection-molded in a region that requires airtightness of a fuel cell separator to maintain airtightness of each flow field of the separator and to smoothly guide the fluid flow in each flow field.For this purpose, the present invention provides a fuel cell separator having an airtight gasket, which is integrally injection-molded on both surfaces of the separator to form a closed curve.
US08497044B2 Solid oxide fuel cell device
To provide a solid oxide fuel cell device capable of stably increasing the temperature of a fuel cell units and smoothly starting electrical generation. The present invention is a solid oxide fuel cell device (1), having a fuel cell module (2); a reformer (20); a fuel supply means (38); a reforming oxidant gas supply means (44); a water supply means (28); a generating oxidant gas supply means (45); and a control section (110) for causing reforming reactions to occur in the reformer at the temperature at which electricity can be generated, prior to the start of electrical generation, in the sequence: POX, in which only the partial oxidation reaction occurs, ATR, in which the partial oxidation reaction and the steam reforming reactions occur, and SR, in which only steam reforming reaction occurs; whereby the control section controls the fuel supply means so that the rate of change in the fuel supply flow rate versus time at the time of transition from the ATR to the SR is the smallest of the rates of change when the fuel supply flow rate is changed at the temperature at which electricity can be generated.
US08497043B2 Electrical power generator systems that passively transfer hydrogen and oxygen to fuel cells and methods for generating power via same
A power generating system for operating below a surface of a body of water includes a fuel cell stack configured to react hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity. An oxygen source is configured to provide oxygen to the fuel cell stack. A hydrogen source is configured to provide hydrogen to the fuel cell stack. The hydrogen source is at least partially submerged in water and incorporates a non-hydride metal alloy that reacts with water to produce hydrogen from the water.
US08497040B2 Lithium secondary battery with high energy density
The present invention relates to electrodes for a lithium secondary battery with a high energy density and a secondary battery with a high energy density using the same. A negative electrode includes a material which can be alloyed with lithium alloy. A positive electrode is made of a transition metal oxide which can reversibly intercalate or deintercalate lithium. Here, the entire reversible lithium storage capacity of the positive electrode is greater than the capacity of lithium dischargeable from the positive electrode.
US08497034B2 Alkaline battery
An alkaline battery including a positive electrode of a hollow cylindrical shape disposed in contact with an inner surface of a bottomed cylindrical battery case, a gelled negative electrode, a separator, and an alkaline electrolyte. The separator includes a cylindrical separator disposed in contact with the inner side surface of the positive electrode, and a bottom separator covering an opening of the cylindrical separator in the bottom side of the battery case. The bottom of the battery case includes: an annular base portion for supporting the positive electrode; an annular intermediate portion provided inwardly of the base portion, for supporting the bottom separator; and a terminal portion protruding outwardly from the intermediate portion. The intermediate portion has an inclined surface on the inner bottom surface of the battery case, the inclined surface being inclined downwardly from the base portion toward the terminal portion.
US08497030B2 Recycling batteries having basic electrolytes
Embodiments related to recycling alkaline batteries are disclosed. In one disclosed embodiment, a method for recycling a battery having a basic electrolyte comprises rupturing the battery under anaerobic conditions and flooding the interior of the battery with carbon dioxide in an anaerobic chamber.
US08497027B2 Utilization of amorphous steel sheets in honeycomb structures
A honeycomb structure and a method of forming an iron based glass forming honeycomb structure. The honeycomb structure may include at least two sheets, each having a thickness in the range of 0.01 mm to 0.15 mm, formed from an iron based glass forming alloy comprising 40 to 68 atomic percent iron, 13 to 17 atomic percent nickel, 2 to 21 atomic percent cobalt, 12 to 19 atomic percent boron, optionally 0.1 to 6 atomic percent carbon, optionally 0.3 to 4 atomic percent silicon, optionally 1 to 20 percent chromium. The sheets may be stacked, bonded together and formed into a honeycomb. The honeycomb structure may include a plurality of cells.
US08497018B2 High temperature stable amorphous silica-rich aluminosilicates
A solid amorphous silica-rich aluminosilicate composition is stable at temperatures up to 1500° C. or above and is capable of sustained use as a coating under high to extreme temperature conditions.
US08497017B2 Polymer matrix, uses thereof and a method of manufacturing the same
The present invention relates to a polymer matrix, characterized in that it comprises a) an electron donating constituent and b) metal particles comprising at least one metal chosen from palladium, gold, ruthenium, rhodium, osmium, iridium, and platinum. The polymer matrix makes it possible to improve the biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties of substrates coated with said polymer matrix.
US08497013B2 Printable coating
A primer-less coating composition for facestock comprises: a binder being a water-dispersible polymer; an ethylenically unsaturated compound which is aqueous-dispersible and miscible with or bonded to said water-dispersible polymer, wherein said ethylenically unsaturated compound is able to form a covalent bond with an ink; and a crosslinker, wherein said crosslinker is suitable for binding the coating to the facestock. The coating composition may be applied to a substrate to form a printable film. A printed film in accordance with the invention may be used in a label, for example for use on a container such as a bottle.
US08497011B2 Decorative material and decorative sheet
Realization of a configuration of decorative sheet, particularly a decorative paper, or a decorative material in which it is adhered, meaning: a grain depression is not visible; excellent in scratch resistance, also in contamination resistance; and three-dimensional design can be expressed. The configuration is realized by using delustering silica, whose surface is treated with a fatty acid based wax such as stearic acid, in a decorative material 10 in which a luster adjusting resin layer 2, formed of a cross-linked cured material of an ionizing radiation curing resin composition containing a delustering silica, is on base material 1.
US08497010B2 Breathable low-emissivity metalized sheets
A moisture vapor permeable metalized composite sheet is formed by coating a moisture vapor permeable sheet with at least one metal layer and at least one outer organic coating layer. The moisture vapor permeability of the composite sheet is at least about 80% of the moisture vapor permeability of the starting sheet. The composite sheet provides a barrier to air and liquid water infiltration while having high moisture vapor permeability and good thermal barrier properties. The composite sheet material is suitable for use as a building construction wrap such as roof lining and house wrap.
US08497005B1 Highly abrasion-resistant grafted polyolefin pipe
A pipe or tube article comprising an innermost comprising a grafted polyolefin composition made from a grafted polyolefin composition is disclosed which can provide long lifetime, highly abrasion-resistant pipes for mining and other transportation uses. Methods for preparing the article and transporting abrasive materials through the article are also described.
US08497003B2 Glucose compound, cellulose composition, cellulose film, polarizing plate and liquid crystal display device
A glucose compound represented by Formula (I): wherein, R11 and R12 each independently represent an alkyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms or an alkenyl group having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, wherein one CH2 group or two or more non-adjacent CH2 groups in the alkyl and alkenyl groups may be replaced by O; L1 represents —OCO—*, —OCH2—* (binding to B at the * side), or a single bond; A and B each independently represent a trans-1,4-cyclohexylene group which may be substituted or a 1,4-phenylene group which may be substituted; and R13 and R14 each independently represent a hydrogen atom or an acyl group having 1 to 10 carbon atoms; and a cellulose composition, a cellulose film, an optical film, a polarizing plate, a liquid crystal display device, and a retardation-increasing agent which have the glucose compound.
US08497002B2 Liquid crystal display device
An alignment film is given a 2-layer structure comprising a photoalignment film that is photoalignable and a low-resistivity alignment film whose resistivity is smaller than that of the photoalignment film. The photoalignment film is formed by a polyimide whose precursor is polyamide acid alkyl ester, the number molecular weight of the photoalignment film is large, and the stability of alignment of the photoalignment film by photoalignment is excellent. The low-resistivity alignment film is formed by a polyimide whose precursor is polyamide acid, the number molecular weight of the low-resistivity alignment film is small, and the resistivity of the low-resistivity alignment film is small. The 2-layer structure alignment film can be maintaining an excellent photoalignment characteristic, so DC afterimages can be controlled.
US08496996B2 Method of forming a brilliant multi-layered coating film
This invention provides a method for forming brilliant multi-layered coating film excelling in brilliance, which comprises the steps of applying an effect pigment-containing water-borne base coating composition (A1) having a coating film viscosity (VA1) after 1 minute of its application of 10-500 Pa·sec onto a substrate to form a first base coating film; and applying an effect pigment-containing water-borne base coating composition (A2) having a coating film viscosity (VA2) after 1 minute of its application of 5-200 Pa·sec onto the first base coating film while the viscosity (VA3) of the first base coating film is 10-500 Pa·sec, the viscosity ratio (VA1)/(VA2) being 1.3/1-35/1.
US08496991B2 Coating treatment method
The present invention supplies a solvent to a front surface of a substrate while rotating the substrate. The substrate is acceleratingly rotated to a first number of rotations, and a resist solution is supplied to a central portion of the substrate during the accelerating rotation and the rotation at a first number of rotations. The substrate is deceleratingly rotated to a second number of rotations, and after the number of rotations of the substrate reaches the second number of rotations, the resist solution is discharged to the substrate. The substrate is then acceleratingly rotated to a third number of rotations higher than the second number of rotations so that the substrate is rotated at the third number of rotations. According to the present invention, consumption of the resist solution can be suppressed and a high in-plane uniformity can be obtained for the film thickness of the resist film.
US08496990B2 Method of repairing a coating on an article
A method of locally repairing a coating (50) on a gas turbine engine nozzle guide vane (26) or a turbine blade (30,30B) comprises removing a damaged portion of the coating (50) from a portion (53) of the article. Any oxidized layer (54) is removed from the portion (53) of the surface of the article. Material is placed on the portion (53) of the article (26,30,30B) to form a patch coating (50B). The material is heated to form a patch coating (50B) on the portion (53) of the article (26,30,30B) and to bond the patch coating (50B) to the portion (53) of the article (26,30,30B) and to the coating surrounding the patch coating (50B). A high energy beam is impinged on the coating (50) and the high energy beam is moved from the periphery (60) of the patch coating (50B) to the periphery (62) of the coating (50) in a pattern (P) to uniformly heat the periphery (60) of the patch coating (50B) and the periphery (62) of the coating (50). The advantage is that a halo effect around the patch coating (50B) is obviated.
US08496984B2 Compositions and methods for decontamination of animal feed containing mycotoxins typical for both northern and southern climates
Mycotoxins prevailing in Northern climates have been until now proven difficult to deactivate in animal feed by binding, in contrast to mycotoxins prevailing in the Southern climates. Meanwhile, both types of toxins present a considerable risk factor for agricultural animal health and performance. A method of adsorbing and rendering harmless for animals an expanded range of both Northern and Southern mycotoxins found in contaminated feed is proposed. According to the invention, a combination of modified plant ligno-polysaccharide material and traditional mycotoxin binding components is added to the feed of agricultural and companion animals in an amount sufficient to abate the negative effects of both types of mycotoxins present.
US08496976B2 Artificial tears and therapeutic uses
The present invention provides ophthalmic compositions, e.g. artificial tears, suitable for treating dry eye syndrome in a human or other mammal suffering there from, e.g. a dog or cat, which comprise a mixture of castor oil with another oil, e.g. a food oil, e.g. olive oil, sesame oil, corn oil etc.
US08496971B2 Treatment of osteoporosis
The present invention relates to a combination for the treatment of osteoporosis and/or the prophylaxis and treatment of bone fractures, said combination comprising collagen, an additional peptide, a calcium-containing substance and a wetting agent with a terminally functionalized oligolactone. The invention also relates to artificial bones and implants produced by the combination and to the use of said combination for fixing implants and treating osteoporosis and/or the prophylaxis and treatment of bone fractures. The invention further relates to a method for producing artificial bones and implants.
US08496967B2 Oral formulations
A solid pharmaceutical composition containing AP23573 suitable for oral administration is disclosed.
US08496964B2 Controlled release micro-capsule for osteogenic action
The present invention relates to a microcapsule for controlled release of flavanoid compound and a process for preparation thereof. The microcapsule comprising a core particle consisting of a calcium salt, Pluronic F68 [poly (ethylene oxide-co-polypropylene oxide), block poly oxyethylene-polypropylene block copolymer], loaded with a flavanoid compound, the resulting core particle having a plurality of alternate layers of cationic and anionic polyelectrolytes adsorbed thereon and an outer layer formed by a bile salt, wherein the flavanoid is ranging between 10 to 96% by weight.
US08496962B2 Trans-adjuvant system
The present invention relates to a novel adjuvant system that generates an efficient immune response against antigens of various origins while reducing the risk of toxic side effects attendant to the use of known adjuvants. The novel adjuvant of the present invention comprises virosomes and allows antigenic molecules to be bound to or encapsulated in a variety of delivery vehicles which are easier to prepare for virosomes.
US08496959B2 Method of promoting new tissue growth and/or wound healing using bioresorbable dressing comprising microspheres or microparticles
Methods, system and compositions for making and using a bioresorbable linked dressing made of bioresorbable microspheres in various configurations are provided for use in applying reduced pressure to a wound site. The methods include manufacture of a bioresorbable dressing comprising a casing and bioresorbable microspheres in the form of a rope shape. Further, the casing of the dressing comprises pores formed by a porogen system that may be activated by external to the wound or formed in situ within the wound site. The shape of the dressing allows the dressing to be placed into the wound site such that it fills the shape and size of the wound. Embodiments include formation of various rope dressing and their use in conjunction with reduced pressure therapy.
US08496951B2 Compositions containing aromatic aldehydes and their use in treatments
Disclosed are pharmaceutical and cosmetic compositions containing aromatic aldehyde compounds. Some of the disclosed compositions are useful as topical therapeutics for treating inflammatory dermatologic conditions. Some of the compositions are useful in transdermal and other systemic dose forms for treating other inflammatory conditions in mammals.
US08496948B2 Topical skin composition comprising mineral yeast ferments
A cosmetic composition with superior moisturizing benefits comprising from approximately 0.3% to approximately 0.9% by weight of bio-chelated mineral blend comprising silicon, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and calcium, and at least approximately 85.0% by weight of a humectant blend. Preferably, the bio-chelated mineral blend comprise Saccharomyces zinc ferment, Saccharomyces copper ferment, Saccharomyces magnesium ferment, Saccharomyces iron ferment, Saccharomyces silicon ferment, and Saccharomyces calcium ferment in equal amounts, more preferably from approximately 0.05% to approximately 0.15% by weight of each component. The humectant blend preferably comprises glycerin, beet root extract, and Aloe barbadensis leaf polysaccharides.
US08496942B2 Therapeutic peptides and uses thereof
The present invention is directed to a family of therapeutic peptides capable of modulating cytokine expression and/or stimulating the immune system of subject without producing or sustaining serious side-effects. Methods using the peptides to modulate cytokine expression in a subject, treat a disease, enhance vaccination, and stimulate a subject's immune system response are also disclosed.
US08496938B2 Anti-CD100 neutralizing neutralizing antibodies and methods of using the same
Compositions and methods are provided for treating diseases associated with CD100, including certain autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and cancers. In particular, anti-CD100 monoclonal antibodies have been developed to neutralize CD100.
US08496933B2 VHNAR anti-cytokine domains
The present invention concerns therapeutic compositions containing proteins that are the variable regions of IgNAR immunoglobulins, denominated vNAR, that specifically bind and neutralizes cytokines involved in a diversity of process such as inflammation and neovascularization, its ability to reach, bind, and neutralize the activity of one antigenic molecule localized in an immunoprivileged organs, are also described.
US08496919B2 Cosmetic composition and hair wash
To provide a cosmetic composition and a hair wash which are excellent in metal pyrithione salt persistence after washing with a washing liquid containing a surfactant, etc.A cosmetic composition and a hair wash, which comprise a copolymer and a metal pyrithione salt, wherein the copolymer contains constituting units corresponding to a cationic vinyl monomer of a specific structure and constituting units corresponding to a nonionic vinyl monomer of a specific structure.
US08496918B1 Regiospecific glycerin polyesters
The present invention is directed to a series of polymeric glyceryl esters that have two different molecular weight ester chains, one solid and one liquid, which when combined into a single molecule make a polymer that is solid, but has very unique flow properties. These materials find applications as additives to formulations in personal care products where there is a desire to have a structured film (provided by the solid fatty group) and flow properties, (provided by the liquid fatty group). These compounds by virtue of their unique structure provide outstanding skin feel.
US08496911B2 Tissue stabilization for heart failure
Methods and devices for the stabilization of heart tissue to treat congestive heart failure using a therapeutic composition are discussed. The therapeutic composition can comprise an elastin stabilization agent, a collagen stabilization agent, or a combination thereof and be applied to the pericardium, to the outer surface of the myocardium, or a combination thereof using a catheter type of device with an attached reservoir. Controlled placement and release of the therapeutic composition can be achieved using a delivery vehicle to formulate the composition.
US08496902B2 Method for preparing insertion compounds of an alkali metal, active materials containing same, and devices comprising said active materials
Process for the preparation of an insertion compound of an alkali metal in which the following successive stages are carried out: a) an organic complex of a transition metal or of a mixture of transition metals M in an oxidation state of greater than 2 is brought into contact with an alkali metal A in the ionic form and with an entity of formula Hb(XO4), where X is chosen from Si, S, Al, P, Ge, As or Mo and b has a value from 0 to 5, in a liquid medium in a closed chamber; the chamber is brought to a temperature T which makes possible the decomposition of the organic complex in the said liquid medium; the temperature and the pressure in the chamber are brought back to ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure and the insertion compound for an alkali metal of formula AMXO4, in which M is in the +2 oxidation state, is recovered.
US08496898B2 Fluidized bed carbon dioxide scrubber for pneumatic conveying system
A pneumatic conveying system for conveying hydrated lime is provided with ambient air for the pneumatic conveying system from a scrubber that removes carbon dioxide from the ambient air used in the conveying system. The scrubber includes a bed of hydrated lime through which ambient air is passed, to react carbon dioxide in the air with the hydrated lime in a reaction that forms limestone and water. The air that has passed through the fluidized bed, which is essentially carbon dioxide free, is also passed through a filter to remove particles suspended in the carbon dioxide free air. The carbon dioxide free air from the filter is provided to the pneumatic conveying system. The use of carbon dioxide free air ensures that the hydrated lime being transported in the conveying system will not react in the various conduits and ducts of the pneumatic conveying system to cause problems.
US08496897B2 System, apparatus and method for carbon dioxide sequestration
A carbon dioxide sequestration process includes the following steps. In a first stage, a slurry of a metal silicate rock is mixed with ammonia so as to produce a ammonia/water/metal silicate slurry. In a second stage, the process includes scrubbing a gas stream containing carbon dioxide with the solution from the first stage to thereby absorb the carbon dioxide into a reactive slurry. In a third stage, the reactive slurry from the second stage is passed through a reactor that is controlled so as to promote the reaction between the carbon dioxide and the metal silicate to thereby produce a metal carbonate.
US08496895B2 Exhaust gas treating apparatus and treating method for carbon dioxide capture process
Disclosed are an exhaust gas treating apparatus and a treating method for a carbon dioxide capture process, in which harmful substances remaining in the exhaust gas discharged from the conventional flue-gas desulfurization process are additionally removed for efficient performance of the carbon dioxide capture process. According to the exhaust gas treating apparatus for a carbon dioxide capture process, it has the effects of minimizing the installation space of desulfurization equipment and reducing the process cost. In addition, by keeping the contaminants contained in the gas introduced in the carbon dioxide capture equipment below a proper level, absorption performance can be improved as degradation of the absorbent used in the carbon dioxide capture process is prevented. After all, it has an advantage of preventing the pollution by the exhaust gas discharged into the atmosphere.
US08496888B2 Reducing agent container having an improved structure
A reducing agent container having a multi-function and having a container body thereof is provided with at least a heat exchanger which permits a heating medium using an engine as a heat source thereof to circulate therein for performing the heat exchange with a liquid reducing agent and a strainer which filtrates foreign substances from the liquid reducing agent, the heat exchanger and the strainer being attached to a top board of the container body. Further, a suction pipe capable of sucking the liquid reducing agent from the inside of the container body is connected to the strainer, and a supply port for the liquid reducing agent from which the foreign substances are filtrated is formed in the strainer. Thus, the whole of strainer is not exposed to the outside air, especially, the wind during traveling, and accordingly, the freezing of the urea aqueous solution in the strainer can be suppressed. Accordingly, even in a cold region, it is possible to achieve a function of effective filtration of the urea aqueous solution and a function of suppressing the freezing of the urea aqueous solution.
US08496887B2 Fluoride drying apparatus
The invention relates to methods and apparatus for drying [18F]fluoride which comprises (i) passing a [18F]fluoride solution comprising water, a solvent, [18F]fluoride, and a cationic counterion through a narrow bore vessel at elevated temperature such that the water and solvent are vaporised forming a vaporised component, and (ii) collecting the resulting vaporised component by condensing into a collection vessel.
US08496886B2 Fluid treatment system with bulk material beds operated in parallel and method for operating such a system
A fluid treatment system having bulk beds. The fluid to be treated essentially streams from the bottom up through a bulk bed, while the bulk material migrates through the bulk beds in countercurrent to the fluid essentially from the top down. This is accomplished by removing partial quantities of bulk material at the lower end of the bulk bed, and delivering partial quantities of the bulk material to the bulk bed at the top. At least one charging wagon provided with optionally sealable bulk material outlets is able to traverse a charging channel between a charging position and several partial bulk bed release positions above the bulk beds. Provided below the bulk material outlets and the bulk material valve of the charging wagon are bulk material through pipes, the bulk material outlet mouths of which end on bulk material cones of an underlying bulk bed.
US08496885B2 Container having oxygen scavenging system
A polyethylene terephthalate container having a hydrogen generator and catalyst disposed or otherwise incorporated in components of the container, including the closure, closure insert, label, label glue, and/or any other portions of the final container assembly. In addition, the catalyst and the hydrogen generator can both be located in the same component. Methods for dispersing the hydrogen generator and catalyst in the container wall without affecting clarity are provided.
US08496875B2 Automated system for handling microfluidic devices
The present invention is an automated microfluidic chip processing apparatus that includes a deck for holding at least one microfluidic chip and capable of being accessed by a liquid handling system, a fluid control system, and a detection system, wherein a chip handling device transports the chip from the deck to the fluid control system and the detection system. The present invention also includes a chip for use with an automated microfluidic chip processing apparatus, and a method for processing a microfluidic chip using such an apparatus.
US08496874B2 Integrated centrifugal blood pump-oxygenator, an extracorporeal life support system and a method of de-bubbling and priming an extracorporeal life support system
An integrated centrifugal blood pump-oxygenator (1) which has a housing (2) with a top (3) having a blood inlet (4), a blood outlet (5) and a gas inlet (6), and a bottom (7) having a rotational body (8) being rotatably arranged in a rotor-housing (9) of the bottom (7). The integrated centrifugal blood pump-oxygenator (1) further has an oxygenator membrane (10) provided in an interior (11) of the housing (2), wherein in the operation state oxygen (12) is transferred from the gas inlet (6) through the oxygenator membrane (10) to a gas outlet (13) and blood (14) is brought in direct contact with the oxygenator membrane (10) by pumping the blood (14) with the rotational body (8) from the blood inlet (4) to the blood outlet (5). The rotational body (8) is magnetically journalled in a contact-free manner with respect to the rotor-housing (9). There is an extracorporeal life support system (1000), and a method of de-bubbling and priming a extracorporeal life support system (1000).
US08496872B1 High temperature nitriding of titanium parts
A method and apparatus for manufacturing a part. The part may be positioned in a chamber. The part may be comprised of a metal and may be a positioned part. A gas containing nitrogen may be sent into the chamber. An electromagnetic field may be generated in the chamber with the gas. The electromagnetic field may heat a portion of the metal in the positioned part to a temperature from about 60 percent to about 99 percent of the melting point of the metal such that the portion of the metal has a desired hardness. The portion of the metal may extend from a surface of the positioned part to a selected depth from the surface.
US08496867B2 Process for manufacturing a fuel tank
Process for manufacturing a plastic fuel tank equipped with a component, by molding a parison using a mold comprising two cavities and a core, the process comprising the mounting of a component around a needle or an oblong object attached to the core, the displacement of the needle or oblong object so as to deform the parison and pierce an opening into it, the needle or oblong object carrying the component with it in order to position the component in the opening, and the withdrawal of the needle/oblong object, leaving the component lodged in the opening.
US08496862B2 Collet mechanism and method of molding cannula to a syringe barrel
A collet mechanism that holds a cannula during molding of a syringe includes first and second arms that form an internal cavity. Each arm has a proximal end and a distal end. The first and second arms are in a closed position when the distal ends are moved toward the internal cavity and are in an open position when the distal ends are positioned away from the internal cavity. First and second cannula guides respectively are mounted proximate the distal ends of the first and second arms and extend into the internal cavity. The first and second cannula guides clamp a portion of the cannula to hold the cannula when the first and second arms are in the closed position.
US08496861B2 Process for making plastic fibers for application in concrete
Method for making plastic fiber for application in concrete with largest grain diameters >4 mm, with an average diameter of 0.15 to 2 mm, corresponding to approximately 160 to 28,000 dtex. Using a co-extrusion process, a bi-component fiber is formed having a central core and a casing around the central core, the central core and the casing contain different pure polymers or polymer mixtures, and then the co-extruded bi-component fiber is stretched by a factor of 5 to 15, and thereafter a structured or grooved surface is embossed onto the co-extruded stretched bi-component fiber. The embossing is performed such that a depth of the embossing is more than 10% of an average fiber diameter, and a maximal distances of structure tips within incorporated structures of the embossing in an axial direction lie in a region between 0.5 mm and 3 mm.
US08496859B2 Method of producing a plastic polarized lens
A method of producing a plastic polarized lens with excellent processability and the like by injecting a mixture of a specified isocyanate compound and a specified active hydrogen compound into a lens-forming mold wherein a polarized film containing a thermoplastic polyester is fixed, followed by polymerization and curing.
US08496858B2 Self-supporting optical fiber spool and method for the production thereof
The invention relates to a fiberglass spool comprising a self-supporting roll (12) having layers of windings (20) located one above the other of an optical fiber (13) for transmitting data that may be unwound from the interior of the roll outwards, wherein the windings (20) are fixed to one another by means of an adhesive bonding agent. In order to realize a sufficiently stable, self-supporting roll (12) that may be reliably unwound from the inside outwards without loops being pulled out of the roll (12), the roll (12) is structured as a cross-winding and a hydrocarbon-based, salt water-resistant, chemically inert impregnating material that may be liquefied by heating is used as the bonding agent.
US08496857B2 Nanotextured surfaces
The invention describes novel compositions that include a cross linking compound, a polymer and a 1 nm to about a 25 micron sized particle optionally with an oxide layer. In particular, the particle is a silica and one which has been pretreated with a silane.
US08496853B2 Corrosion inhibition of hypochlorite solutions
Corrosion inhibitor compositions and methods of use are disclosed. Zinc and calcium corrosion inhibitors combined with hypochlorite sources provide use solutions for effective corrosion inhibition for metal surfaces.
US08496850B2 Liquid crystal composition and liquid crystal display device
Disclosed is a liquid crystal composition that can satisfy at least one of properties such as a high upper limit temperature of a nematic phase, a low lower limit temperature of a nematic phase, a low viscosity, a proper optical anisotropy, a negatively high dielectric anisotropy, a high specific resistance, a high stability against ultraviolet light, and a high stability against heat, or has a proper balance between at least two of the above properties. The liquid crystal composition comprises a first component of a dicyclic compound which has a negatively high dielectric anisotropy and contains fluorines at least three of lateral positions, a second component of a specific compound having a low viscosity, and a third component of a specific compound having a negatively high dielectric anisotropy and contains a negatively dielectric anisotropy. The liquid crystal display element comprises the composition.
US08496839B2 Method for filtering a suspension and filter device
A filter device including at least one filter chamber between a filter plate and a counter plate when the device is closed, into which chamber a suspension can be inducted on a cake side of a filter cloth through at least one filling shoe anchored in the filter plate and clamping the cloth with the filter plate in a sealing manner. The suspension permeates the cloth to the filtrate side, wherein the suspension solid content deposits on the cloth as a filter cake, and the filter and counter plates are offset from each other when the device is open, and the cake is removable from the chamber. In order to simplify the disassembly of the cloth, the shoe is movably anchored in the filter plate, and the shoe is automatically lifted off from the filter plate and the clamping of the filter cloth is released when the device is opened.
US08496827B2 Waste activated sludge phosphorus and magnesium stripping process and struvite production system
A method of treating a mixture of microorganisms with readily biodegradable carbon compounds (RBCs) in the form of one or more volatile fatty acids (VFAs), by first inducing the mixture microorganisms to release phosphorus and magnesium which is then tapped o as the mixture is thickened, to produce a phosphorus/magnesium-nch liquid and a phosphorus/magnesium-reduced treated mixture This treated mixture is placed in an anaerobic digester where ammonia is formed, but combines very little with phosphorus or magnesium Next the high-ammonia mixture is dewatered to produce an ammonia-rich liquid, which is combined with the phosphorus and magnesium-rich liquid and reacted to form struvite In one preferred embodiment, VFAs are formed in situ via an upstream unified fermentation and thickening (UFAT) process and added to the waste sidestream to strip phosphorus and magnesium found therein In another preferred embodiment a usable struvite product is harvested.
US08496826B2 Body fluid treating device of hollow fiber membrane type
A hollow fiber membrane type fluid treatment device having at least a body portion of tubular housing containing a hollow fiber membrane bundle. In the hollow fiber membrane type fluid treatment device, an inner surface of a body portion of the tubular housing at a side of a treatment liquid inlet has a body straight portion and an end tapered portion which increases in diameter toward an end face of the housing body portion, the hollow fiber membrane is arranged so that a distance between the hollow fiber membranes is gradually increased toward the end face on the treatment liquid inlet side along a taper of a tapered portion of the inner surface of the housing body portion, and a liquid to be treated flows within the hollow fiber membranes and a treatment liquid flows outside of the hollow fiber membranes.