Document Document Title
US08562546B2 System and method for evaluating tissue
The present invention provides a sensor system for measuring an elastic modulus and a shear modulus and a method for using the sensor system to evaluate a tissue by determining the presence of and/or characterizing abnormal growths. The method involves applying a set of forces of different magnitudes to one or more locations of tissue, detecting the corresponding displacements due to said applied forces, determining the forces acting on those locations of tissue which are a combination of forces from the applied voltages and the countering forces from tissue deformation, obtaining the elastic modulus and/or shear modulus for a plurality of locations, and determining abnormal growth invasiveness, malignancy or the presence of a tumor from said elastic and/or shear moduli.
US08562545B2 Tissue penetration device
A tissue penetration device and method of using same. The tissue penetration device may optionally include sampling and analyzing functions, which may be integrated. An embodiment provides control of a lancet used for sampling blood. Electric field coils or solenoids may drive the lancet using electromagnetic force. Advancement and retraction of a lancet may be controlled by a feedback loop monitoring the position and velocity of the lancet embodiments of the lancet driver can be configured to follow a predetermined tissue lancing profile. Embodiments of the invention include a lancet and method for using a lancet to maintain the patency of the wound tract once the lancet has cut into the skin.
US08562541B2 Method and system for quantitative assessment of visual motion discrimination
A method is presented to address quantitative assessment of visual motion discrimination in a subject, where the method comprises the steps of: (1) presenting a scene, comprising a plurality of elements and a background, to a subject on a display; (2) moving a plurality of elements relative to the scene; (3) receiving feedback from the subject; (4) quantitatively refining the feedback; (5) modulating the movement relative to accuracy of the received feedback; (6) monitoring the response error; (7) calculating a critical threshold parameter for the subject; and (8) recording a critical threshold parameter onto a tangible computer readable medium. An apparatus for quantitative assessment of visual motion discrimination of a subject comprising a display device, an input device, a control device, and a tangible computer readable medium. In its simplest sense, a quantitative assessment profile of visual motion discrimination by psychophysical responses is generated on a tangible computer readable medium.
US08562537B2 Multipurpose host system for invasive cardiovascular diagnostic measurement acquisition and display
A multifunctional invasive cardiovascular diagnostic measurement host is disclosed that interfaces a variety of sensor devices, such as guide wire-mounted pressure sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors, etc, and provides a multi-mode graphical user interface providing a plurality of displays in accordance with the various types of sensors and measurements rendered by the sensors.
US08562529B2 Method and system for non-invasive determination of glycogen stores
Provided is a non-transitory machine readable medium on which is stored a computer program for non-invasive determination of glycogen stores including, the computer program including instructions which when executed by a computer system perform the steps of: receiving an ultrasound scan of a target muscle; and evaluating at least a portion of the ultrasound scan to determine glycogen store within the target muscle.
US08562528B2 Analyte sensor
Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system.
US08562526B2 Apparatus, system, and method for monitoring physiological signs
An apparatus, system, and method monitors the motion, breathing, heart rate and sleep state of subjects, e.g., humans, in a convenient, non-invasive/non-contact, and low-cost fashion. More particularly, the motion, breathing, and heart rate signals are obtained through processing applied to a raw signal obtained in a non-contact fashion, typically using a radio-frequency sensor. Periods of sleep disturbed respiration, or central apnea can be detected through analysis of the respiratory signal. The mean heart rate, and derived information, such as the presence of cardiac arrhythmias can be determined from the cardiac signal. Motion estimates can be used to recognize disturbed sleep and periodic limb movements. The sleep state may be determined by applying a classifier model to the resulting streams of respiratory, cardiac and motion data. A means for display of the sleep state, respiratory, cardiac, and movement status may also be provided.
US08562516B2 Methods and apparatus for obtaining endoluminal access
The present invention provides methods and apparatus for obtaining endoluminal access. An elongate body is configured for insertion within a body lumen, conduit, organ, orifice, passageway or cavity, the elongate body having a working axis and a distal region, and an articulating element disposed near the distal region, the articulating element configured to articulate off-axis from the working axis of the elongate body. The elongate may achieve access in an endoluminal or a laparoscopic fashion. Methods of using the apparatus are also provided.
US08562506B2 Neurotrophic factor production promoting device
A neurotrophic factor production promoting device is provided, which is able to promote production of a neurotrophic factor or neurotrophic factor-like substance in an affected area by a simple technique that, regardless of the place of treatment, can be performed without transplantation of cells or injection into the affected area, in order to prevent or treat various diseases such as brain diseases. In order to apply a high frequency alternating magnetic field in the range of 20 MHz to 180 MHz, 280 MHz to 600 MHz, or 700 MHz to 1000 MHz to cells at a magnetic flux density of no more than 0.01 Tesla, the neurotrophic factor production promoting device includes a high frequency electromagnetic wave generating means generating a high frequency electromagnetic wave of the abovementioned frequency, in which the magnetic stimulation by the high frequency alternating electromagnetic field of the abovementioned high frequency allows the intracellular concentration of calcium ions to be increased so that exocytosis of the neurotrophic factor group is induced, and the magnetic stimulation allows messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) of the neurotrophic factor group to be increased in the cells so that the synthesis and extracellular release of the neurotrophic factor group are promoted.
US08562504B2 Expandable brachytherapy device
A method for brachytherapy in a lumpectomy cavity of a breast including, positioning a distal end of a brachytherapy device within the cavity, expanding an expandable surface portion located between proximal and distal ends of the device within the cavity, the source lumen tubes defining a curved configuration within the cavity; and positioning a source of radiation sequentially within one or more source lumens of the source lumen tubes according to a brachytherapy treatment plan. The device includes an inner tube, and a plurality of source lumen tubes located around the inner tube and including distal ends secured together with the inner tube at the distal end disposed within the body cavity, the source lumen tubes comprising proximal portions sufficiently long to extend outside the breast.
US08562496B2 Thigh exercise machine with rocking user support
A thigh exercise machine has a stationary main frame, a pivotally mounted user support seat, and a pair of exercise arms mounted for rotation between inner and outer positions, each arm having a pad positioned to engage part of a user's leg such as a user's inner or outer thigh. A connecting linkage translates movement of the exercise arms into rocking movement of the user support seat. The connecting linkage is arranged so that user is positioned in an upright or slightly reclined posture when their legs are together and a more reclined posture when their legs are spread apart.
US08562491B2 Seated exercise apparatus
A seated exercise apparatus comprises a frame having a seat attached to the frame. A pair of opposed cranks are rotatably coupled to the frame such that they rotate about a first axis. A medial portion of each of a pair of elongated members is rotatably connected to the frame at a second axis. A first end of each elongated member has a handle and a second end of each elongated member is rotatably connected to a one end of a respective pedal arm. The handles may be adjustable to invert the handles from an upper position to a lower position. The other end of each pedal arm is in turn rotatably connected to a respective crank. Each pedal arm also has a pedal adapted to receive a user's foot. In operation, the apparatus provides the user with coordinated seated exercise of both the arms/hands and legs/feet.
US08562482B2 Control device for vehicular drive system
A control device for a vehicular drive system is disclosed as including reverse drive for suppression means operative to preclude output member, such as an output shaft and drive wheels, of an automatic transmission portion from inputting a reverse drive force to a differential portion. This prevents a power transmitting member from rotating in a direction opposite to a rotational direction of the same with a running position being set. This suppresses a first electric-motor rotation speed, determined with an engine rotation speed and a power transmitting member rotation speed based on the relationship on mutually relative rotation speeds in the differential portion, from increasing to a high level. This results in improved durability of a first electric-motor.
US08562449B2 Breathing mode damper
A shaft assembly is provided to reduce breathing mode vibrations and resulting noises. The shaft assembly includes a shaft member having an outer surface and a damping member constructed at least in part from a damping material and including a substantially annular body and generally opposing ends. The opposing ends are biased such that at least a portion of the damping member engages with the shaft member.
US08562431B2 Gaming device and secure interface
An improved gaming device with a secure interface has been developed. The invention includes an electronic gaming device with internal components, software and data, an external communication interface in communication with the electronic gaming device and an output device of the electronic gaming device in communication with the external communication interface. The output device communicates with external communication interface through a secure interface that does not allow external communications to directly access the internal components, software and data of the electronic gaming device.
US08562424B2 Gameplay-altering portable wagering media
Portable wagering media may be utilized to alter play of wagering games.
US08562423B2 Method and apparatus for rewarding multiple game players for a single win
A gaming apparatus and method is provided that is capable of rewarding a distributed jackpot to players using gaming units that are electronically linked to one another. The distributed jackpot may be shared among non-winning players when a winning result is achieved by a winning player.
US08562422B2 Products and processes for processing information related to weather and other events
According to an embodiment, a method includes receiving a plurality of bets, in which each bet defines a respective amounted wagered, a respective area, and a respective weather-related event. Data that represents the plurality of bets is displayed. An outcome of a weather-related event is determined and at least one winner is determined based on the bets and the outcome.
US08562420B2 Gaming system and a method of gaming
A method of gaming comprising: (a) selecting a plurality of symbols from a source symbol set to form a selected symbol set for display at a plurality of display positions, the source symbol set comprising at least one removable symbol and at least one designated symbol different to each removable symbol; and if a removal condition is met, the removal condition including at least that the selected symbol set includes at least one designated symbol within the display positions; (b) removing at least one removable symbol from the source symbol set from which it was selected to form a modified source symbol set; (c) selecting at least one symbol from the modified source symbol set to form a modified selected symbol set; and (d) determining whether to make an award based on the modified selected symbol set.
US08562409B1 Methods for playing competitive wagering games
A system, method, and computer readable storage to provide a wagering game that awards bettors who correctly predict which of several parties in competition will be the last to successfully meet the requirements of a predetermined sequence of outcomes. Bettors can also wager on the length of the sequence achieved.
US08562398B2 Airflow diffuser (diffuser fan) and air conditioner
An airflow diffuser including a blade wheel that includes blade members, spoke members and a hub member supporting the spoke members, and that is located so that air blown out from an air outlet of an air conditioner comes in contact over a path of rotation of the blade members, a shaft member forming an axis of rotation of the blade wheel. The blade wheel is capable of being freely rotated by at least just the air that is blown out from the air outlet.
US08562391B2 Finishing machine with stone rotating unit
A finishing machine with at least two finishing stones and a stone turning unit is proposed, in which the stone turning unit may be coupled to a rotary drive of the workpiece holder. A separate drive for the stone turning unit may thus be omitted, which results in a reduced weight of the stone turning unit and therefore lower drive power requirement of the stone turning unit and an improved processing quality.
US08562389B2 Thin polishing pad with window and molding process
A polishing pad is described that has a polishing layer with a polishing surface, an adhesive layer on a side of the polishing layer opposite the polishing layer, and a solid light-transmitting window extending through and molded to the polishing layer. The window has a top surface coplanar with the polishing surface and a bottom surface coplanar with a lower surface of the adhesive layer. A method of making a polishing pad includes forming an aperture through a polishing layer and an adhesive layer, securing a backing piece to the adhesive layer on a side opposite a polishing surface of the polishing layer, dispensing a liquid polymer into the aperture, and curing the liquid polymer to form a window.
US08562386B2 Mobile skateboard-shaped toy with a flywheel
A mobile skateboard-shaped toy which is propelled by a displaceable flywheel is described. The skateboard-shaped toy comprises a skateboard deck with the flywheel positioned within the skateboard deck. The flywheel is positioned such that the flywheel protrudes beyond a top portion and a bottom portion of the skateboard deck. The flywheel is rotatable within the skateboard deck to change a rotational direction of the flywheel with respect to a major axis of the skateboard deck. Additionally, the flywheel can be repositioned at different ride heights within the skateboard deck. In one aspect, the flywheel is removable from the skateboard deck to allow the flywheel to be easily repositioned within the skateboard deck or replaced with another flywheel.
US08562375B2 Electrical connector assembly with LED display
An electrical connector assembly includes a bracket arranged along a longitudinal direction thereof with a plurality of connector ports and a LED port opening forwards, a plurality of electrical connectors retained in the connector ports, a shading board disposed with a plurality of cavities and a circuit board retained behind and parallel to the shading board and disposed with a plurality of LEDs on a front face thereof. The plurality of LEDs is received in corresponding cavities of the shading board. The shading board with the circuit board is retained in the LED port by the shading board in a height direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
US08562353B2 Method of representing information
A method of representing information to a person comprising displaying an image viewable by a person, the image comprising visual markers representative of portions of a human body minimally necessary to communicate with the person, the visual markers, when viewed by the person, causing the person to extrapolate the human body, a remainder of the image being visually silent with respect to the person. The method is particularly applicable to represent information so as to be perceivable by a hearing-impaired person (e.g. deaf person) wherein a plurality of images, when displayed, one after another on a display device, represent information perceivable by the hearing-impaired person via sign language.
US08562348B2 Modular implant with secured porous portion
A modular implant includes a head, an intermediate part configured to engage bone, and an initially separate anchor configured to engage the head so that at least the head and the anchor cooperatively secure the intermediate part on the implant to form the modular implant. At least one of the head, the intermediate part, and the anchor has a plurality of forms, and each form is configured to be assembled on at least one form of the other two of the head, intermediate part, and anchor. The intermediate part may include a porous metal such as tantalum.
US08562337B2 Active attachments for interacting with a polymeric shell dental appliance
An active dental attachment. Specifically, an attachment device for interacting with a polymeric shell dental appliance is described. The attachment device includes an anchoring attachment body. A bonding surface is coupled to the anchoring attachment body, wherein the bonding surface is configured for anchoring the anchoring attachment body to a dental feature of a patient's dentition. A force-applying active mechanism is coupled to the anchoring attachment body. A polymeric shell dental appliance contact region is coupled to the force-applying active mechanism. The polymeric shell dental appliance contact region is configured to contact the force-applying active mechanism and apply a force generated by the force-applying active mechanism between the dental feature and the polymeric shell dental appliance when the polymeric shell dental appliance engages the force-applying active mechanism.
US08562334B2 Injection blow molding system with enhanced parison neck mold configuration
An injection blow molding (IBM) system and method for forming a plurality of parisons and molded articles. The IBM system includes an injection station having two die sets, two body mold halves, and two neck mold halves. Each of the neck mold halves is attached directly to one of the die sets. The neck mold halves are configured to cooperatively form the exterior shape of the necks of one or more parisons. This type of neck mold attachment configuration can allow for better temperature control of the neck portion of the parison being molded therein. Further, such a neck mold configuration can reduce the cost of fabricating, installing, and/or replacing the neck molds.
US08562329B2 Embossing tool and embossed product
An embossing tool includes a rotary embossing roll (10) with an axis of rotation (16) in its longitudinal direction and raised embossing protrusions (18; 18a, 18b) arranged on the operative surface area (12) of the embossing roll (10). The embossing roll (10) includes a least two segments (14; 14a-14h) forming at least a part of the operative surface area (12) of the embossing roll (10). Each segment (14; 14a-14h) is provided with at least one raised embossing protrusion (18; 18a, 18b) and the radial position and angular orientation of at least one segment (14; 14a-14h) is adjustable by at least two spaced apart, independently provided adjustment devices (26).
US08562322B2 Aspects of a press assembly
An assembly includes a plurality of core retention elements for transferring cores to a tablet press turn table. The core retention elements may each include a core receptacle that selectively receives a core. The core retention elements may transfer the core into one of a plurality of die bores in the press turn table.
US08562320B2 Resin molding device
A resin molding device which molds a resin tube 1 from a molten resin has a tube molding portion 14 and a spindle 15 as jigs which define inner and outer diameters of the resin tube.
US08562315B2 Fuel pump
A fuel pump includes a housing having therein a suction passage and a pressurization chamber into which fuel from the suction passage flows, a plunger held in the housing to be reciprocable so as to pressurize the fuel flowing into the pressurization chamber, and a diaphragm device located in a suction chamber that is provided in the suction passage. The diaphragm device includes a pair of first and second diaphragms that are arranged to define an inner space therebetween and air-tightly sealed at its entire peripheries. A mass addition member may be attached to an inside surface of at least one of the first and second diaphragms, so that the first and second diaphragms with the mass addition member have different characteristic frequencies. Accordingly, pressure pulsation of the fuel in the suction chamber can be effectively reduced by the pulsation damper.
US08562310B1 Chlorination system with corrosion minimizing components
A pumping apparatus for pumping a liquid from a source to a target including a motor and pump driven by the motor. Sacrificial zinc components are utilized to minimize corrosion due to chlorine vapors. Measures to ensure that liquid is pumped in only one direction include the use of a full wave rectifier and/or a spacer incorporated with a swivel platform to limits the range of the angle between the motor shaft and the pump piston. To minimize the risk of rupturing the pump, the pump piston includes a relieved portion in fluid communication with a transverse bore of the pump housing when the piston is axially inserted within the pump housing in its full forward position. To prevent overheating and damage to the pump components, the pumping apparatus makes use of a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) resistor interposed between the motor and a current source.
US08562305B2 Controlled magnetohydrodynamic fluidic networks and stirrers
Provided are magnetohydrodynamic stirrers comprising a conduit or cavity having at least two electrodes disposed in such an orientation that, upon the application of a potential or current across the electrode pair within a magnetic field, secondary flows such as chaotic advection is generated.
US08562304B2 Electrical motor activation method having load torque adaptation
An electrical motor activation method for an electric motor including a rotor, connected to a motor shaft, and a stator having brushes. The stator comprises multiple commutator laminations for the commutation of windings disposed on the rotor and is activated by a pulsed or linearly controllable power source. The motor shaft is connected to a radially driven load, in particular a pump, which has a nonlinear torque curve via a motor revolution. A waviness signal is obtained from a voltage potential applied to the motor and/or from the motor current and rotor position information is obtained from the curve of said waviness signal.
US08562302B2 Wind turbine blade with integrated handling mechanism attachment bores
A wind turbine blade includes a leading edge, a trailing edge, a suction side, and a pressure side. At least one integrated attachment bore is configured in each of the suction side and pressure side between the leading edge and trailing edge. The attachment bores are structurally configured for receipt of a handling mechanism therein for supporting the blade during a transportation, installation, or maintenance procedure.
US08562301B2 Turbine blade retention device
A turbine blade assembly has a turbine blade with a root section and an airfoil section. The root section has one of a radially extending groove or flange, and a retainer element has the other of the groove and the flange. The groove receives the flange to hold the retainer element and the blade together. The retainer element has axial ends extending radially inwardly to secure a turbine blade assembly within a disk slot in a turbine rotor disk. A method is also disclosed.
US08562300B2 Wind turbine with high solidity rotor
A wind turbine includes a nacelle support structure rotationally mounted to a tower through a yaw bearing for rotation about a yaw axis. A hollow shaft is rotationally mounted to the nacelle support structure through a rotor bearing for rotation about a rotor axis of rotation and a blade support body is mounted to the hollow shaft, the blade support body supports either of a two-bladed rotor system and a three-bladed rotor system, the two-bladed rotor system and the three-bladed rotor system have essentially equal solidity.
US08562299B2 Blade for a device for generating energy from a fluid flow
A blade for a device for generating energy from a fluid including a driving surface inside which a fluid is intended to flow in order to rotate the blade about a rotational axis {right arrow over (X)}0, {right arrow over (Y)}0 which defines with axes {right arrow over (Y)}0, {right arrow over (Z)}0 an orthogonal reference frame, {right arrow over (X)}0, {right arrow over (Y)}0, {right arrow over (Z)}0. Said blade being bounded by a leading edge and a trailing edge, narrowing between the leading edge and the trailing edge, running along a neutral fiber, where the projection of the neutral fiber onto the plane {right arrow over (X)}0, {right arrow over (Y)}0 has a first curvature. The plane {right arrow over (X)}0, {right arrow over (Y)}0 being defined so as to contain the neutral fiber at the leading edge. The blade is particularly applicable to wind generators.
US08562296B2 Lightning protection system for sectional blades
Additional lightning protection system for intermediate wind turbine blade joints comprises a metal fairing that covers the blade connector elements while shielding and protecting the internal connector elements from getting hit by lightning.
US08562295B1 Three piece bonded thin wall cooled blade
A turbine rotor blade formed from three pieces with a pressure wall side piece and a suction wall side piece bonded to an intermediate piece so that a pressure side cooling circuit can be formed as a separate cooling circuit from a suction side cooling circuit. The intermediate piece has film cooling holes and blade tip cooling holes and trailing edge exit slots formed in it that are enclosed when the outer two pieces are boded to it.
US08562293B2 Multi-stage pump rotor for a turbomolecular pump
A multi-stage pump rotor (10) for a turbomolecular pump has at least two separate blade disk rings (17), each having a motor ring (12) and at least one blade disk (14). A cylindrical reinforcement pipe (18), which surrounds the rotor rings (12) of the blade disk rings (17) on the outside without clearance, is provided between the blade disks (14) of adjacent blade disk rings (17). The reinforcement pipe (18) absorbs a large part of the tangential forces occurring during operation such that the pump rotor (10) has improved stability at high rotor speeds.
US08562284B2 Propulsive fan system
A propulsive fan system comprises a fan unit comprising a first stage array of rotatable blades upstream of a second stage array of rotatable blades. The first stage is coupled to a first drive means. The second stage is coupled to a second drive means. The first drive means is independently operable of the second drive means during operation of the fan system.
US08562276B2 System for loading and unloading unit loads into a cargo hold, in particular of an aircraft, and intermediate transport device or corresponding transport unit
The present invention concerns a system for loading and unloading loose cargo (6), such as preferably pieces of luggage or the like, in a cargo hold (1) of a plane, including conveying the loose cargo (6) towards the inner end of the cargo hold (1) during loading, or away from it during unloading, and including transport of the loose cargo (6) between the level of the tarmac and the cargo hold opening. In the system of the invention, the loose cargo (6) may during loading be conveyed into the fuselage in a direction transversal to the longitudinal axis of the plane and also in the longitudinal direction of the plane, and deposited in the cargo hold (1). Loose cargo (6) conveyed back into the plane of the cargo hold opening during unloading may be conveyed off transversely to the longitudinal axis of the plane through the cargo hold opening. Moreover the invention proposes intermediate conveyor means (2) herefor. Furthermore the present invention specifies further alternatives for the system and also for the intermediate conveyor means and conveyor unit, respectively.
US08562275B2 Transfer device and semiconductor processing system
A transfer device 17 in a semiconductor processing system includes first and second actuation mechanisms 9A, 9B having first and second support sections movable on first and second vertical planes, respectively, the latter being parallel with each other. First and second movable blocks 18A, 18B are supported on the first and second support sections so that they may be horizontally moved by the first and second actuation mechanisms. Disposed on the first and second movable blocks are first and second handling mechanism 19A, 19B capable of extension and contraction for handling a processing subject substrate W. A control section 20 controls the operation of the first and second actuation mechanisms so that the first and second movable blocks may not interfere with each other.
US08562270B1 Loading arrangement including a dam for confining catalyst and other particles on the top tubesheet of a chemical reactor
A dam arrangement is provided for confining catalyst and other particles. The dam can be arranged in a wide variety of configurations. In one embodiment, blocks are provided that are releasably secured to the top tubesheet by means of magnets, and sheets are secured to the blocks to create a dam. In another embodiment, the blocks are releasably secured to the tubesheet by fasteners which project into the tops of some of the tubes and then lock into those tubes.
US08562265B2 Method and apparatus for twist lock manipulation
A manipulation device (5) for either securing a twist-lock to a shipping container or releasing it therefrom or both, the device (5) comprising an engagement element (20) operative to engage and rotate at least a portion of the twist-lock so as to secure the twist-lock in the shipping container or to release it therefrom; a support member (15) disposed above the an engagement element (20), the support member (15) being arranged to receive and support a mid region of the twist-lock while allowing a lower portion of the supported twist-lock to protect below the member to be engagable with the an engagement element (20), said support member (15) being in the form of a plate incorporating at least one aperture allowing the lower portion of the supported twist-lock to protect below the plate; wherein said support member (15) is selectively movable out of alignment with an axis of rotation of the twist-lock.
US08562258B2 Shielded tamper and method of use for making aggregate columns
A tamper device including a shaft for driving a tamper head, and a shield. A tamper head is attached to the end of the shaft for tamping a lift of aggregate in a cavity formed in a ground surface. A shield attached to the tamper device and spaced a predetermined distance above a top surface of the tamper head, the shield having a predetermined length extending upwardly above the tamper head sufficient to prevent sidewalls of a cavity in soft soil in which the tamper device is used from failing and collapsing into the cavity. Methods of constructing aggregate columns with thicker lifts are also disclosed.
US08562250B2 Method for injecting surface water into the ground
A method and pumping/drainage channel member for injecting surface water into the soil beneath a ground area includes drilling a series of holes and inserting an elongated pumping/drainage members into each hole extending downwardly into the soil. The pumping/drainage channel members comprise a cluster of integrally joined channel features each formed with a lengthwise extending slot opening. Surface water flows to the pumping/drainage member, enters the channels and drains down the pumping/drainage members to enhance water movement down into the soil to reduce runoff and help to recharge acquifers. Longer members may be installed between shorter members in a pattern to achieve more rapid injection of water deep into the subsoil.
US08562245B2 Kerbstone and stop for bus traffic
A curbstone (6, 7, 9, 10) comprising an upper side (63, 73, 93, 103) serving as a step-on surface, a front side (64, 74, 94, 104) serving as a boundary, a rear side (61, 71, 91, 101) and a lower side (62, 72, 92, 102), wherein the front side (64, 74, 94, 104) comprises a lower mounting section (641, 741, 941, 1041) with an upper edge (642, 742, 942, 1042) and, adjoining the upper edge (642, 742, 942, 1042), an upper section which is provided with an oblique surface (645, 745, 945, 1045) which is set back increasingly from bottom to top in the direction of the rear side (61, 71, 91, 101) and which, in its lower region, merges into a concavely curved section (644, 744, 944, 1044) which extends as far as the upper edge (642, 742, 942, 1042) in a substantially planar section (643, 743, 943, 1043) extending virtually horizontally in the mounted state, wherein the front side (64, 74, 94, 104) comprises, above the oblique surface (645, 745, 945, 1045), a second concavely curved section (647, 747, 947, 1047) which is set back increasingly from bottom to top in the direction of the rear side (61, 71, 91, 101).
US08562243B2 Clamping arrangement and ejector and conical ring for the same
A clamping arrangement for the force-fit connection of an outer component to an inner component including an inner conical ring and an outer conical ring wherein one of the rings has leadthrough bores clamping screws and the other ring has threaded bores for the clamping screws to brace the rings against one another via the conical peripheral surfaces, and against the inner and outer component arrangement. At least one leadthrough bore having an ejector thread for an ejector screw and the diameter of the ejector thread being greater than the diameter of the clamping screw. The arrangement including an ejector ring with an ejector bore for the leadthrough of the ejector screw which can be screwed into the ejector thread and an ejector surface for engaging a clamping screw head that is incompletely screwed into the corresponding threaded bore for the transmission of an ejector force onto the clamping screw.
US08562238B2 Pipe handle holding mechanism
A pipe handle holding structure wherein force for holding a bar handle in a holder is minimized, the holding performance whereby the bar handle is held by the holder is improved, and the bar handle and holder are maintained in an appropriate state even in cases in which the bar handle is frequently attached to and detached from the holder. The pipe handle holding structure comprises a round pipe-shaped bar handle, and a holder for holding an external peripheral surface of the bar handle. The holder has a plurality of concealing parts for concealing the external peripheral surface of the bar handle and elastically deforming the external peripheral surface in a pipe diameter direction.
US08562233B2 Container having a tool retainer, container carrying a cosmetic accessory, and associated cosmetic accessory and treatment method
The present invention relates generally to packaging. In one embodiment the invention concerns a container having a tool retainer incorporated therein. In another embodiment the invention relates to a container of the type having a hollow envelope defining internally a chamber suitable for a product such as a cosmetic product, the hollow envelope defining externally a receiving housing for an accessory such as a cosmetic accessory; and an accessory, such as a cosmetic accessory, designed to be received removably in the receiving housing, the accessory having at least a part that is more flexible than the hollow envelope.
US08562217B2 Compact non-contact mechanical coupling, damping and/or load bearing device
A compact, noncontact mechanical coupling, damping, and/or load bearing device comprising an internal load bearing member and an external load bearing member that are mated in an interdigitated relation while maintaining a gap therebetween is described. In some embodiments, the gap between the internal and external load bearing members is maintained by hydrostatic means, hydrodynamic means, electrorheological fluids, magnetorheological fluids, electric fields, and/or magnetic fields.
US08562214B2 Waterproof truck bag
A large, waterproof bag that is sized to fit into the bed of a pick-up truck. The bag is fully sealed by a zipper and an overlapping flap at an opening at one end of the bag. The flap covers and protects the zipper. The waterproof bag is used to store luggage and other goods in a safe, waterproof environment in the truck bed. The bag features eight hook assemblies attached at each corner of two opposed surfaces of the bag that can be used to secure the bag in place during travel.
US08562208B2 Critical temperature indicator
A temperature descending indicator which gives a visual indication when the indicator has been exposed to temperatures below a set threshold temperature includes a container having a translucent portion, a first temperature sensitive gel of a first color which will convert to liquid when it is exposed to temperatures below the set threshold temperature, and a second temperature sensitive gel of a second color which will convert to liquid when it is exposed to temperatures below the set threshold temperature, wherein the second temperature sensitive gel is disposed adjacent the translucent portion in a manner to obscure the visibility of the first temperature sensitive gel. A method of making the indicator includes disposing one color gel over the other.
US08562203B2 Extruder
An extruder comprises a displacement part with a housing, inside of which at least one screw shaft is housed and which is provided, at one end, with a material entry opening for the material to be processed and, at the other end, with a material outlet opening for the processed material, and with an intermediate opening between the material entry opening and the material outlet opening for discharging gas from the displacement part. A material retaining device is connected to said intermediate opening and has at least one screw shaft inside an intermediate housing. This screw shaft extends from the intermediate opening to a gas discharge opening in the intermediate housing and conveys material entering the intermediate housing back into the displacement part. To this end, the screw section of the screw shaft facing the displacement part has a direction of thread that returns into the displacement part, and the screw section of the screw shaft facing away from the displacement part has an opposite direction of thread.
US08562197B2 Backlight apparatus and display apparatus including the same
A backlight apparatus includes a substrate which includes a plurality of layers. A plurality of light emitting modules are arranged on a top layer of the plurality of layers closest to a light guide panel, and a plurality of wires penetrates through the plurality of layers to electrically connect the light emitting modules and a plurality of driving units. Accordingly, the width of the substrate of an edge type backlight apparatus which can provide local dimming is reduced. Therefore, the display apparatus using the edge type backlight apparatus can be slim even if it is designed to provide local dimming.
US08562193B2 Wedge-base bulb socket and automotive light for motor vehicles and similar provided with said socket
Wedge-base bulb socket comprising: a supporting base provided with a coupling seat dimensioned to house the plug of the light bulb; two coupling and connecting members which are located inside the coupling seat, and are structured to separately hold the wedge-shaped plug of the light bulb fitted into the coupling seat, and to feed electric current to said light bulb; two electrically conductive elements which extend on the surface of the supporting base up to the edge of the entrance of the coupling seat, on opposite sides of said entrance, and then descend into the coupling seat up to reach each a respective coupling and connecting member; and two respectively-facing additional supporting jaws which are supported by the two electrically conductive elements so as to be located substantially on opposite sides of the entrance of the coupling seat, and structured to clamp the wedge-base light bulb fitted into the socket, so as to firmly hold said wedge-base light bulb in the wedge-base bulb socket.
US08562192B2 Automotive headlamp apparatus for controlling light distribution pattern
An automotive headlamp apparatus includes headlamp units placed in a vehicle and a control unit which controls the illumination of the headlamp units. The headlamp units form a lower beam distribution pattern and an upper beam distribution pattern, and is configured so that a partial region of the upper beam distribution pattern can be non-illuminated. When the entirety of vehicle existent area of a vehicle-in-front travelling in front of a driver's vehicle is contained within the partial region, the control unit controls the headlamp units in such a manner that the partial region is non-illuminated; when at least a part of the vehicle existent area is contained within a region of the upper beam distribution pattern which is other than the partial region, the control unit controls the headlamp units in such a manner that the upper beam distribution pattern is not formed.
US08562191B2 Vehicle light
A vehicle light can project light beams through ring-shaped or arc-shaped light exiting surfaces, and among them the outermost and innermost light exiting surfaces are brighter than the others. The vehicle light can include a light emitting element having an optical axis and a light guide lens having an incidence surface on which light beams from the light emitting element at a certain angle (θ4 to θ5) impinge, reflection surfaces reflecting the light beams so that the light beams are parallel to each other, and light exiting surfaces configured to allow the reflected light beams to pass therethrough. In this vehicle light, light beams emitted at a certain angle (θ4 to θ4a where θ4<θ4a<θ5) can be projected through the farthest light exiting surface from the optical axis. The vehicle light can further include an incidence surface on which light beams emitted at a certain angle (θ2 to θ3 where θ2<θ3≦θ4) impinge, a reflecting surface reflecting the light beams from the incidence surface so that the light beams are parallel to each other, and a light exiting surface configured to allow the reflected light beams to pass therethrough.
US08562182B2 Lighting fixture and method for creating visual effects and method for creating a distorted image
A lighting fixture and method for creating visual effects include a light box having an interior, a reflective inner surface and an opening, a plate covering the opening, a 3-dimentional image on the plate having a first depth, at least one light source disposed in the interior for illuminating the image with evenly spread light. The light source is disposed at a second depth behind the image. A ratio of first to second depths is between 7:7 and 7:21. A plurality of interchangeable plates may be provided with respective 3-dimentional images for creating different effects. A method for creating a distorted image includes preparing a 2-dimensional image, sculpting a 3-dimensional model, vacuum forming and running a 3-dimentional grid, drawing a distorted outline onto a 2-dimentional grid with photo management software, digitally matching and stretching an original image to match the outline and removing the outline leaving the distorted image.
US08562180B2 Lighting assembly and light module for same
A lighting assembly that has a light fixture and an LED light module is provided. One or more resilient members generate an axial force when the LED light module is removably coupled to the light fixture to thereby exert a force on the LED light module to resiliently maintain the LED light module in resilient contact with the light fixture or socket of the light fixture to thereby thermally couple the LED light module to the light fixture or socket of the light fixture. One or both of the LED light module and light fixture have one or more engaging members, and one or both of the LED light module and the light fixture have one or more slots configured to removably receive the one or more engaging members therein when coupling the LED light module to the light fixture.
US08562168B2 Perimeter lighting fixture with wall trim piece
A perimeter lighting fixture has housing and a separate trim piece. The trim piece is attached to a wall. A wall compound, such as plaster, is smoothed over a blend area or band on the wall just below the trim piece, and also onto a transition section of the trim piece. The housing and/or a reflector of the perimeter lighting fixture is positioned in contact with the trim piece. The trim piece compensates for waviness or uneven wall surfaces. As the trim piece is straight, the variances in wall straightness are corrected. This allows the lighting fixture to be placed against or closely adjacent to the wall, without creating unsightly dark gaps between them, and without highlighting the imperfections in the wall.
US08562167B1 Cabinet having a light-emitting-translucent-shelf
Cabinets having various light-emitting-translucent-shelf (LETS) are shown and described. The LETS may include at least one light-channel defined by a wooden component, at least one light source positionable within the at least one light-channel, and a translucent sheet horizontally positioned above the at least one light source.
US08562154B2 Vibrator driving method, vibrating apparatus, driving apparatus having vibrating apparatus, foreign substance removing apparatus having vibrating apparatus, and optical apparatus having vibrating apparatus
A driving method causes a vibrator to generate standing waves different in order with a predetermined time phase difference. The vibrator has a first vibration mode in which plural nodal lines are arranged in a first direction, a second vibration mode in which a number of first-direction nodal lines is different from that in the first vibration mode and its natural frequency is higher than that of the first vibration mode, and a third vibration mode having a natural frequency between those of the first and second vibration modes. The vibrator is driven on condition that an excitation force applied to one of the first and second vibration modes, in which a difference between its natural frequency and the natural frequency of the third vibration mode is smaller, is made larger than that applied to the other thereof, in which a difference between its natural frequency and the natural frequency of the third vibration mode is larger.
US08562141B2 Light-source apparatus and projector
A projection apparatus includes a fluorescence plate including a fluorescence layer configured to emit fluorescence light beams upon irradiation of the excitation lights, a first lens array, provided on a light source side of the fluorescence plate and including a plurality of lenses arranged in an array to correspond with the light-emitting elements, and configured to collect the fluorescence light beams and emit the fluorescence light beams to be parallel with one another, and a projection unit configured to form an optical image using the fluorescence light beams obtained via the first lens array and project the optical image on a projection object.
US08562123B2 Inkjet ink composition and inkjet recording method
An inkjet ink composition is provided that includes (Component A) an N-vinyllactam, (Component B) a di(meth)acrylate ester of at least one type of diol selected from the group consisting of a straight-chain hydrocarbon diol having 9 to 18 carbon atoms, a branched hydrocarbon diol having 6 to 18 carbon atoms, and a monoalicyclic hydrocarbon diol having 6 to 18 carbon atoms, and (Component C) at least one type of polymerization initiator selected from the group consisting of an α-amino ketone compound, a thioxanthone compound, a thiochromanone compound, and a bisacylphosphine oxide compound. There is also provided an inkjet recording method that includes (a) an image formation step of forming an image above a support by discharging the inkjet ink composition by an inkjet method and (b) a curing step of curing the ink composition by irradiating the obtained image with actinic radiation to thus obtain a printed material having a cured image above the support.
US08562122B2 Ink jet inks having improved corrosion resistance for use in ink jet print heads comprising nickel or nickel alloys
The present disclosure pertains to an aqueous ink jet ink having improved corrosion resistance for use in an ink jet print head including: (a) a colorant; (b) an aqueous vehicle; and (c) a certain random hydrophilic polymer additive, wherein the random hydrophilic polymer additive includes a random copolymer consisting of a hydrophilic component and an optional hydrophobic component, wherein the hydrophobic component includes a monomer selected from the group consisting of methyl acrylate and/or vinyl acetate and/or a hydrophobic monomer having a carbon to oxygen ratio of at least about 2.5, and wherein the hydrophobic component has a concentration of less than about 40% by weight, based on the weight of the polymer additive, and the hydrophilic component includes at least one non-acidic hydrophilic monomer having a carbon to oxygen ratio of less than about 2.5, and a monomer with an ionizable acidic group with a carbon to oxygen ratio of less than about 2.5 present in the amount of at least 10%, based on the weight of the polymer additive; and wherein the ink jet print head includes an ink flow passage, at least a portion of which is formed of nickel-containing metal such as nickel or nickel alloy.
US08562117B2 Pressure pulses to reduce bubbles and voids in phase change ink
A phase change ink printer may be operated so that multiple pressure pulses are applied to the ink in an ink flow path of the printer during a time that the ink is changing phase. During the phase change, a portion of the ink in the ink flow path is in liquid phase and another portion of the ink is in solid phase. The pressure pulses are applied at least to the liquid phase ink in the ink flow path. The phase change may involve a transition from solid to liquid phase, such as during a start-up operation, or may involve a transition from a liquid phase to a solid phase, such as during a power down operation. Application of pressure during either of these operations serves to reduce bubbles and voids in the phase change ink.
US08562116B2 Printing fluid cartridge and printing apparatus
A printing fluid cartridge includes a front face oriented toward a first direction, a printing fluid supply portion positioned at the front face, a rear face positioned opposite the front face and oriented toward a second direction opposite the first direction, an electrical interface positioned between the front face and the rear face and facing, and an engagement surface facing in the second direction.
US08562115B2 Condensation control in an inkjet printing system
Inkjet printing systems are provided. One inkjet printing system has a plurality of inkjet printheads, each having nozzles for jetting ink droplets having a vaporizable carrier fluid, a support structure to which the plurality of inkjet printheads are mounted, such that a face of each of the printheads of the plurality of printheads is positioned to jet the ink droplets toward a target area through which a receiver transport system moves a receiver during printing; and a shield between the support structure and the target area creating a first region between the shield and the target area with the shield having at least one opening through the shield through which the nozzles of the printhead can jet the ink droplets to the target area. An energy source supplies energy to cause the temperature of the shield to rise above a condensation temperature of vaporized carrier fluid in the second region.
US08562108B2 Two pass print mode method and apparatus for limiting wind-related print defects
A two pass print mode method and apparatus limits wind-related print defects produced during printing, utilizing a reciprocating carrier of a printer carrying a printhead having an array of columns of actuator-fired fluid-jetting nozzles along a bi-directional scanning path. Due to instructions from a controller, printing proceeds along an initial partial swath on a print medium during a first pass along the scanning path by firing actuators associated with a first plurality of segments of a given column of nozzles. Then, printing proceeds along a final partial swath on the print medium during a second pass along the scanning path by firing actuators associated with a second plurality of segments of the given column of nozzles. Each segment of nozzles of the first and second pluralities includes more than one consecutive nozzle so that gaps are created in the partial swath printing accommodating wind-related effects without causing wind-related print defects.
US08562107B2 Printing process of forming two images on print medium in overlapping manner
The printing apparatus includes a control-section for forming an image on a print-medium by repeating an image-formation-operation and a transport-operation. Through the image-formation-operation, a plurality of nozzle-arrays discharges an ink while a moving-mechanism moves the plurality of nozzle-arrays, and through the transport-operation, the print-medium is transported to the transport-mechanism. The control-section forms a first-image by using a nozzle group for the first-image. The nozzle-group for the first-image is formed of N nozzles included in a first-nozzle-array of the plurality of nozzle-arrays. In addition, the control-section forms a second-image, which overlaps with the first-image on the print-medium, by using a nozzle-group for the second-image. The nozzle-group for the second-image is formed of M nozzles among the nozzles included in the second-nozzle-array of the plurality of nozzle-arrays, and the position of the nozzle-group for the second-image is different from that of the nozzle-group for the first-image in a first-direction.
US08562106B2 Inkjet print head and inkjet print apparatus
There is provided an inkjet print apparatus which can prevent floating mists from being attached on a head face to realize a print with high quality. Therefore a wing-shaped print head is provided to increase an air flow flowing into a region between a print head positioned backward thereof and a print medium.
US08562103B2 Recovery apparatus and image forming apparatus
A recovery apparatus for recovering an ejection state of an ejection opening is disclosed. The recovery apparatus includes a cap member to seal an ejection surface of a droplet ejection head for ejecting a droplet from the ejection opening, and an absorber mounted in the cap member and to absorb ink attached to the ejection surface, so that the ink within a sealed space is suctioned and discharged. The absorber includes, when the ejection surface is sealed with the cap member, a first absorbing part to face the ejection surface at a first side where the ejection opening is provided through a first gap and a second absorbing part to face the ejection surface at a second side where the ejection opening is not provided through a second gap, wherein the first gap is greater than the second gap.
US08562098B2 Recording apparatus and recording method
In the present invention, a conveying operation of a recording medium is controlled on the basis of a first correction value and a second correction value. The first correction value is used for correcting a conveying amount when the recording medium disengages from a first conveying roller, and the second correction value is used for correcting the phase of the first conveying roller and a second conveying roller when the recording medium disengages from the first conveying roller before the recording medium is nipped by the first conveying roller.
US08562097B2 Transport apparatus for flat materials to be printed with aligned support bar system
A transport apparatus for flat materials to be printed includes a transport belt guided over a plurality of rollers along a centrally indented oval curve and supported on a supporting plate disposed above a supporting region of a roller carrier between a shaped partial plate and a bearing plate. A supporting surface area of the supporting plate is greater than a surface area of a printing window, and the transport belt has a width in the y-direction of a Cartesian coordinate system being wider than a width of the printing window. The indented section of the oval curve is configured at least partially for receiving a printing module or the bottom of at least one ink cartridge having a print head.
US08562090B2 Image forming apparatus and method for controlling the same
A method for controlling an image forming apparatus including a head having a nozzle for discharging a liquid droplet; a sub-tank for temporarily storing the liquid supplied to the head; a main tank for storing the liquid; a pump capable of forwardly sending the liquid from the main tank to the sub-tank and reversely sending the liquid from the sub-tank to the main tank; and a sensor for sensing a pressure in the sub-tank is provided. In the method, before sending the liquid forwardly or reversely to achieve a target negative pressure in the sub-tank, a pressure sensing function of the sensor is checked by sending the liquid with the pressure in the sub-tank being at a negative pressure range in which a meniscus of the liquid is maintained. When the pressure sensing function is determined abnormal, a control is performed not to send the liquid by the pump.
US08562086B1 Rail system for supporting equipment in a rack
A rail system for supporting equipment in a rack is disclosed. The rail system may include: a first support rail assembly extending between a pair of vertical columns; a second support rail assembly extending between a different pair of vertical columns. Each support rail assembly may include: a support rail having opposite ends; aligners configured to align the opposite ends of the support rail with apertures of vertical columns; and mounting plates configured to removably secure the aligners to the opposite ends of the support rail. At least one mounting plate may be further configured to define at least one receiving portion for receiving a fastener for securing an equipment supportable in the rack.
US08562081B2 Track shoe assembly for continuous track vehicles
An improved track shoe assembly for a continuous track vehicle. The track shoe assembly comprises a pin which is rotatable relative to a shoe of the track shoe assembly. The track shoe assembly comprises an elastomeric tube through which the pin extends, the elastomeric tube being rotatable with respect to one of the pin and the shoe and being fixed with respect to the other of the pin and the shoe.
US08562074B2 Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat is provided comprising a seat back frame having right and left side frames, a headrest for supporting a head of a seat occupant, and a back-and-forth movable plate member provided inside a backrest that is positioned at a rear of the seat occupant, wherein a backward movement of the plate reduces a distance between the head of the seat occupant and the headrest. The plate is attached to each side frame through a link member and a link support shaft swingably supports the link member. A bracket member that supports the link support shaft and is attached to the side frame.
US08562054B2 Training chopsticks
Chopsticks are provided including a first chopstick and a second chopstick which have been modified to be readily coupled together. Bores are formed in each of the chopsticks. A pin is supplied which passes through each of the bores. The pin has a friction fit within the bores such that the chopsticks are held together. The pin resiliently flexes when distal ends of the chopsticks are brought together, so that the pin provides a return force to the chopsticks. The bores and pin preferably have a non-circular cross-section so that the chopsticks are held within a common plane. The pin can have at least one tip that is pointed so that the pin can double as a toothpick.
US08562051B2 Disposal utensil
The invention provides a utensil 10 includes a body 12 and a water entry point 14. The body 12 is in the form of a scoop and is fabricated from a thermoplastic polymer, e.g. Polyvinyl chloride. The body 12 is substantially cylindrical in shape and is typically truncated along its length. The inner portion of the body 12 defines a scoop-like excrement receiving surface 16 which extends from a free end region 18 of the body 12. Water is then supplied via the entry point 14 into the body 12 at a pressure sufficient to discharge the excrement received therein and disposed of into the drainage system.
US08562044B2 Tool to lift barbecue grill
A simple tool for lifting a barbecue grill is described—the grill lifter tool has a handle near its top end and a downwardly depending rod from near its center. The downwardly depending rod terminates near its bottom at a horizontal rod. The horizontal rod is thin enough to fit down between and below the space between adjacent grill bars. Near the top of the downwardly depending rod there is a first washer around and welded to the rod. Near the bottom of the downwardly depending rod, there is a second washer movably resting on the top of the horizontal rod, and held in place by a partially compressed spring constrained between the first top washer and the second bottom washer. The second bottom washer is large enough to not fit down into the space between the grill bars.
US08562043B2 Alignment devices
An alignment device for attachment to a mounting support for vehicle front ends, whereby the alignment device is configured to receive a crash box that connects the mounting support to a bumper bracket. The alignment device includes a first abutment element and a second abutment element between which the crash box can be inserted and which are provided upon receiving the crash box to rest on opposite sides of the crash box. At least one abutment element is designed such that when receiving the crash box, it presses the same against the other abutment element, whereby one or more holding devices are provided on at least one of the first or second abutment elements that serve to limit the insertion of the crash box into the alignment device.
US08562042B2 Bumper assembly for motor vehicle, end portion of motor vehicle comprising such an assembly and motor vehicle
This bumper assembly is adapted for a motor vehicle having a structure including a pair of upper side members (6) and a pair of lower side members (8). It includes an energy absorbing panel (12) having at least two columns (16) each provided to bear on the ends of an upper side member (6) and a lower side member (8) and a beam (18) extending transversely between the columns (16). According to one embodiment, the bumper assembly includes a plate (36) doubling the beam (18) such that the beam (18) is compressed between a frontal face (36a) of the plate (36) in case of impact. The device is applicable to front or rear bumpers.
US08562036B2 Fixing apparatus for battery
A fixing apparatus includes a base and a latch. A number of fixing holes is defined in the base for receiving supporting posts of different batteries. A first end of the latch is pivotably connected to a side of the base, and a second end opposite to the first end of the latch is detachably engaged with an opposite side of the base. A resilient tab extends downwards from a middle of the latch.
US08562030B2 Electronic mobile device cover latch mechanism
An electronic mobile device comprises a base defining a compartment opening and a cover movably supported by the base to restrict access to the compartment opening. The device further comprises a latch supported by one of the base and the cover and a catch pivotably supported by the other of the base and the cover. The catch pivots in a first direction to engage and move the latch relative to the catch and thereby move at least a portion of the cover away from the compartment opening.
US08562029B2 Clamp for mounting upon a cylindrical member
A clamp for mounting upon a cylindrical member, such as a sub-sea riser or umbilical, has a set of outer clamp shells shaped to be arranged around the cylindrical member, and preferably adapted to be secured to one another in this configuration, e.g., by means of bolts. Within the structure thus formed are inner clamp members shaped to seat upon the cylindrical member, e.g., through part-circular inner faces. The inner clamp members are biased into engagement with the cylindrical member by means of spring elements pre-stressed upon assembly of the clamp between opposed surfaces of the respective outer clamp shell and inner clamp member. Preferably, the spring elements each act along a circumferential direction.
US08562024B2 Number writing development guide
A number writing development guide including a number guide sheet having sequential instruction indicia. The sequential instruction indicia includes discrete ordered steps that cue a user in proper writing strokes to write an associated number. At least one of the discrete ordered steps relates to a common childhood activity or experience to thereby form an association between the activity or experience and the sequential instruction indicia. The guide further includes a challenge sheet coupled to the number guide sheet and having number challenge indicia. The number challenge indicia cues the user to arrive at a numerical answer to the number challenge and write the numerical answer thereon.
US08562022B2 Trailer
Improved trailers (e.g., semi-trailers) are disclosed. The trailers may include a floor having a top surface and a bottom surface, where the top surface is adapted to transport a payload, and an elongated shell connected to the bottom surface of the floor, where the elongated shell defines a portion of a substantially closed torsion-resistant chamber of the trailer. The trailers may have a torsion resistance that is substantially higher than conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity. The trailers may weigh substantially less than conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity. The trailers may realize a bending resistance that is at least equivalent to the bending resistance of conventional trailers of similar size and/or load capacity.
US08562020B2 Steering column support apparatus
Construction of a steering column support apparatus is achieved that is able to suppress an increase in the height dimension, maintain a function of the steering column 6a being able to displace smoothly in the forward direction during a secondary collision and prevent the steering column from dropping down even when the steering column 6a is displaced in the forward direction due to a secondary collision. The steering column support apparatus comprises a non-dropping bracket 45 that is fastened to the vehicle body, a dropping bracket 46 that is supported by the steering column 6a, a pair of bolts 47 and a pair of support capsules 16a. During a secondary collision, the supporting force of the support capsules 16a for supporting the non-dropping bracket 45 is lost and the steering column 6a displaces in the forward direction together with the bolts 47, support capsules 16a and dropping bracket 46, however, does not drop from the non-dropping bracket.
US08562017B2 Vehicle seat including side airbag system
A vehicle seat including a side airbag system, in which an airbag body accommodated inside a seatback of the vehicle seat is configured to deploy when the vehicle is collided from a side thereof and a deployment groove which is configured to improve the deployment of the airbag body is formed to a cushion pad of the seatback, wherein a guide portion which is configured to guide the deployment of the airbag body towards a desired height is formed to the deployment groove.
US08562016B2 Curtain airbag device and method of manufacturing the same
In at least one embodiment of the present invention, an airbag capable of maintaining a stable attachment to a vehicle for a long period and a method of manufacturing the airbag are provided. The curtain airbag device comprises an airbag body accommodated to a window upper edge of a vehicle for expanding and inflating toward inside of the vehicle in a compressed state when it is deployed. A plurality of strip-shaped coupling members are coupled with the airbag body. A plurality of brackets are coupled with the airbag body for fixing the airbag body to the vehicle. Each bracket has a coupling hole through which each strip-shaped coupling member is inserted and a fixing hole into which a tightening member is inserted. The airbag body is coupled with the brackets by the strip-shaped coupling members as well as the airbag body is fixed to the vehicle through the brackets by the tightening members.
US08562014B2 Adaptor for joining towing bar to nose wheel of aircraft
Towing bars for joining towing vehicles to the front wheel axles of aircraft often include a pair of parallel bars having cylindrical bosses connected to the trailing ends of the bars and opposing one another. The bosses are intended to fit into sockets or bores in the opposing ends of the axle. With certain airplanes the bosses may not be long enough to clear the opposed sides of a nose wheel tire sufficiently so that their ends project into the axle openings. An adaptor to allow such towing bars to fit these aircraft includes a cylindrical rod of a diameter adapted to extend into the end bore of the axle joined at its opposite end to a coaxial, larger diameter cylindrical hub having a bore adapted to receive one of the tow bar bosses. The length of the adaptor hub is such that the tow bar arms clear the outer sides of the tire when the cylindrical rod ends are within the axle bores, allowing the nose wheel to freely rotate during towing and prevent damage to the tire.
US08562012B2 Roll coupling trailer hitch assembly
A roll coupling system for roll coupling the drawbar of a trailer to the rear of a tow vehicle includes at least one load-transfer point between the tow vehicle and the trailer. At least one load-transfer point includes a wear reducer. A yaw and/or pitch articulator is mounted between the vehicle and the trailer providing for yaw and/or pitch. The articulator has a corresponding substantially vertical yaw axis and/or substantially horizontal pitch axis.
US08562007B2 Walker
A walker (1) is disclosed, which comprises a base frame (20) supported by wheels (22) and support rods (3, 4) mounted on the said base frame (2) to support at a suitable height support means (7, 8) designed to support the patient during walking. The support rods (3, 4) are hinged mutually and to the base frame (2), in such a way to go from the operating position, in which the support means (7, 8) are at a suitable height to support the patient, to a minimum-volume position, in which the support means (7, 8) are near the baseframe (2).
US08562000B2 Turbine combustion system transition piece side seals
A seal strip (54) with a central relatively thin portion (68) and first and second thicker side portions (70, 72) that may be wedge-shaped adjacent the central portion. Each side portion may be formed of a linear array of base-in prisms (56), where each prism includes a base adjacent and normal to the central portion, and a thickness tapering distally toward an adjacent edge of the seal strip. The base-in prisms of each side portion may be separated by transverse slots (55) along the length of the strip. The transverse slots of the first side portion may be unaligned with the transverse slots of the second side portion along the length of the strip. A retention pin (58) may extend normally from an end of the seal strip. The seal strip may be mounted in tapered slots (49) of a gas turbine transition exit frame (48).
US08561993B2 Target impact-point sensing system
A target includes multiple segments that are vibrationaly isolated from each other. A vibration sensor is coupled to each segment to provide vibration signatures representative of a segment being impacted by a projectile.
US08561985B2 Conveying device, image forming apparatus, and program
An image forming apparatus includes a feed unit, a sensor, a control unit, a measuring unit, and a determining unit. The feed unit 1 conveys a sheet. The sensor detects the sheet being conveyed. The control unit controls to change the force acting on the sheet from that is in normal conveyance of the sheet. The measuring unit measures a measurement value related to conveyance speed of the detected sheet with the acting force changed. The determining unit determines whether there is an indication of abnormality in conveyance of the sheet on the basis of the measurement value.
US08561980B2 Apparatus and method for singling sheet material
In an apparatus for singling sheet material, multiple picks are avoided by a retaining device ensuring that sheet material entrained with the sheet to be singled is retained not only on one side but also on the other side of the sheet to be singled. While the first retaining device is located opposite a singling gap of the singling device and is continually effective, the second retaining device acts before, or in, the singling gap from the other side of the singling gap and is only activated after the sheet to be singled is reliably grasped by the singling device, and deactivated when it has left the singling gap.
US08561973B2 Pull action clamp with toggle lock
A clamp for clamping a work piece to a fixture includes a base for mounting to the fixture and a handle having a body portion and an arm portion. The handle includes a pivotal connection to the base. The clamp further includes a holding member and a latch. The holding member has a holding position for clamping the work piece to the fixture and a pivotal connection to the handle. The latch includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is engaged with the base for locking the holding member in the holding position and becomes disengaged from the base by moving the second end portion in a direction generally away from the arm portion of the handle. The latch has a pivotal connection to the handle.
US08561966B2 Cam valve
In a step motor driven cam valve a stem freely ascends and descends within a body having an in-flow passage, an out-flow passage, a valve chamber, and a valve seat. The stem is descended by an actuator, composed of a step motor and a cam mechanism located at a position above the stem, that changes a rotational motion of the step motor to a linear motion and transmits the linear motion to the stem. A diaphragm within a valve chamber or a valve body at a lower end part of the stem rests on the valve seat. A lift support mechanism that supports the actuator to freely ascend and descend is arranged at a bonnet that covers the valve chamber. A height fine-adjustment mechanism, arranged at the lift supporting mechanism, finely adjusts the height of the actuator relative to the stem so as to perform zero-point adjustment of the valve.
US08561961B1 Captive hardware for improved installation
A lighting fixture includes a housing with an upper base panel and opposed end walls that collectively define an opening in which one or more lamps and one or more reflector panels are disposed. The lamps extend substantially along a longitudinal axis of the housing, between bracket subassemblies. Each bracket subassembly includes at least one captive hardware fastener, which is pre-installed in the bracket subassembly and designed to be movable relative to the bracket subassembly only upon application of deliberate force with respect to the captive hardware fastener. While the captive hardware fastener is movable for installation purposes, the captive hardware fastener is not readily removable from its corresponding bracket subassembly. For example, the captive hardware can include a self-drilling screw, the body of which extends between two substantially parallel members separated by a third member, which has a straight or curved geometry.
US08561955B2 Low profile articulating mounting system
A device mount for affixing a device to a surface such as a wall. The device mount has a surface bracket, an articulation mechanism, and a device mount plate. In various embodiments, the device mount further includes a tilt assembly. The surface mount bracket includes an upper surface bracket, a lower surface bracket and a vertical support positioned there between and connected to the lower all bracket and the upper surface bracket. The articulation mechanism has an inner articulating arm pivotally connected to the surface mount bracket and an outer articulating arm is rotatably connected to the inner articulating arm such that it maybe disposed substantially within a void of the inner articulating arm. The tilt assembly is connected to the outer articulating arm and pivotally connected to the device mount plate that is adapted to have a device mounted thereto, such that the device mount plate is selectively tiltable. The tilt assembly may comprise at least one friction hinge that substantially maintains the tilt angle of the device mount plate. When in a collapsed position, the inner articulating arm is substantially disposed between the upper surface bracket and lower surface bracket and the outer articulating arm is substantially disposed within the inner articulating arm presenting a thin profile.
US08561954B2 Combined ladder engageable tool carrier and step stool
A tool carrying device configured for removable engagement atop a stepladder and to provide elevated support for a user when the carrying device is positioned on the ground. A secure removable engagement with the top of the ladder is provided by walls descending from a top which form a skirt to surround the top end of the ladder and hold the device from sliding therefrom. Removable tool holders and shelves to hold and store tools are provided, allowing the user a secure tool box when atop a ladder and a slightly elevated working structure for tasks requiring a lower elevation for the user.
US08561951B2 Garden hose guide
The garden hose guide includes a spiral stake member terminating at a lower end in a sharpened point. A hose support and guide define an upper portion of the stake member. The hose support and guide includes a roller, a first support arm and a hose guide arm disposed perpendicular to the first support arm. A conventional washer is attached to the stake member and is utilized to manipulate the stake for securing the stake in the ground.
US08561949B2 Articulated cable protection and guide apparatus
There is provided an articulated cable protection and guide apparatus that can securely and stably guide a large number of cables, can assure durability of articulated supporting members that operate between straight and bending postures for a long period of time, and can be easily disassembled and assembled at a machine frame-side stationary end-side connector unit or at a moving end-side connector unit. The articulated cable protection and guide apparatus comprises: a stationary end-side connector unit for affixing each stationary end of articulated supporting members, cables and a flexible belt member integrally to a machine frame-side stationary end area; a moving end-side connector unit for affixing each moving end of the articulated supporting members, cables and a flexible belt member integrally to a movable-side moving end area.
US08561941B2 Pin system for the connection assembly of an engine pylon underneath a wing of an aircraft
A connection assembly of an engine pylon underneath an aircraft wing, the wing being provided with a fitting, the engine pylon being provided with a fork joint nested in the fitting and fixed to the said fitting by means of a traversing pin system, including: an external primary pin, a secondary pin mounted inside the primary pin, a primary shoulder mounted directly around the primary pin, at a blind end of the pin system, to block the said pin in translation, a secondary shoulder mounted around one end of the secondary pin, at a blind end of the pin system, to block the system in rotation, and an interlocking assembly mounted around the primary pin and the secondary pin, at a free end of the pin system, to block the pin system in translation.
US08561930B2 Spinning reel fishing line guide mechanism
A spinning reel fishing line guide mechanism for guiding a fishing line onto a spool is provided. The spinning reel fishing line guide mechanism includes first and second bail support members pivotably attached to first and second rotor arms respectively, a fixation shaft fixed to the first bail support member, a fixation shaft cover, a line roller, and a bail guiding the fishing line to the line roller through the fixation shaft cover. The fixation shaft cover includes a cover body disposed onto an axial end of the fixation shaft wherein the cover body is separate from the first bail support member, and an engagement groove on a lateral portion of the cover body. The lateral portion extends to the fixation shaft. The bail has a rod portion having a rod shape, and a plate portion attached to the rod portion.
US08561925B2 Lateral irrigation system with Z-fold spans
A lateral irrigation system comprising a plurality of towers and a plurality of lateral structures extending between and connected to the towers. The support structures may comprise a first support structure, a second support structure pivotable relative to the first support structure, and a third support structure pivotable relative to the second support structure. The irrigation system may also comprise a fluid delivery system having conduits attached to or extending through the support structures and configured to output water from orifices formed therein. The irrigation system may further comprise joints at which the second and third support structures may pivot. The second and third support structures may be configured to pivot into a substantially zig-zag or “Z”-shaped configuration relative to the first support structure.
US08561909B2 RFID device having low-loss barium-based ceramic oxide
An RFID chip is embedded in a device having a body that includes a low-dielectric loss material including at least one of barium stannate, barium cerate, barium tungstate and barium molybdate.
US08561904B2 Optical apparatus
Disclosed is an optical apparatus that allows a target pattern to be imaged adequately at low cost and allows the apparatus to be miniaturized. With this optical apparatus (1), light L output from one light source (2) is collimated through a collimation lens (3) and divided into first light beams L1L and L1R by a diffractive optical element (4), and, by a computer-generated hologram (5), first light beams L1L and L1R are each divided into second light beams L2LO, L2LI, L2RI and L2RO, and these second light beams L2LO, L2LI, L2RI and L2RO form a guide pattern whereby whether or not a focused state is achieved cane be decided.
US08561902B2 Systems and methods for weigh scale perimeter monitoring for scanner-scales
Systems and methods for reducing erroneous weighing of items such as by detecting items extending beyond a periphery of a weigh platter whereby in one configuration, the system employs a light guide for routing a light beam to a detector operative to detect interruption of the beam due to an item encroaching upon or overhanging an edge of the platter. In another configuration, the scale includes a perimeter gap between the platter outer edge and scanner housing frame or checkout counter, a light beam directed angularly upward through the gap is partially obstructed by the frame and platter whereby light exits the gap forming a light plane, wherein an object placed on the platter extending across the gap intersects the light plane thus scattering light rays, some of which are sensed by a detector. Various indicators for alerting the operator of off-scale detection are also described.
US08561900B2 Data transfer system, data acquisition device, data acquisition method, data accumulation device, data transmission method, and program for the same
A data acquisition device includes a wireless communication unit for performing wireless communication of data with a data accumulation device in which data is accumulated, a type registration unit wherein data types of necessary data are registered beforehand, a type comparison unit for comparing the data type of data received via the wireless communication unit with data types registered in the type registration unit, a data extracting unit for extracting only data of which the data type matches, and a data holding unit for holding the extracted data.
US08561897B2 Load tracking utilizing load identifying indicia and spatial discrimination
Methods and apparatus for determining the location of one or more unit loads in a coordinate space in a facility, comprising an integrated system that identifies a load by reading indicia on the load, determines the position of the indicia in the coordinate space, and stores the indicia position and load identity in a Label Map. A mobile subsystem on each conveying vehicle identifies the location and orientation of that vehicle using a position/orientation sensor, determines the identity of the load, establishes a Target Cube to discriminate the desired load from nearby loads, confirms acquisition of the load, and communicates the information to a fixed-base subsystem. Load identity and the location and orientation of the vehicle when a load is deposited are used to create a Load Map that contains the identity, position and orientation of all identified loads in the coordinate space.
US08561895B2 Terminal including imaging assembly
A terminal includes a housing, a touch screen, and an imaging assembly. The imaging assembly in one embodiment is disposed in the housing so that an imaging axis extends externally from the housing. The imaging assembly can be utilized for capture of images disposed externally to the housing. In one embodiment a frame of image data captured utilizing an imaging assembly can be processed for attempting to decode a decodable indicia. In one embodiment a frame of image data captured utilizing an imaging assembly can be stored.
US08561890B2 System and method for monitoring commercial transactions
A system for monitoring commercial transactions is implemented using credit cards and/or debit cards in conjunction with card readers and/or their associated cash registers linked in communication to a banking establishment. The system comprises modules for use with printers of the card readers and/or their associated cash registers for communicating information included in receipts generated in response to transactions occurring in respect of the credit cards and/or debit cards executed at the card readers. The system further includes computing hardware executing in operation software products for receiving information included in the receipts, for receiving from the banking establishment account information regarding owners or users of the credit cards and/or debit cards, and for associating information included within the receipts with the account information to generate a detailed itemized report of individual items provided in the receipts for presentation to the owners or users.
US08561888B1 Check cashing banking system controlled responsive to data bearing records
An automated banking machine operates to cause financial transfers responsive to card data read from user cards by a card reader. The financial transfers involve accounts that correspond to the read card data. The machine includes drive belts, rotatable idler rollers, and sensors positioned along a stack transport path. A stack of aligned currency notes is moved by the drive belts while the stack is situated between the belts and the rollers. The belts engage the face of an end note at one side of the stack while the stack bearing rollers contact the face of the other end note at the other side of the stack. The rollers' rolling contact with the stack earns sufficiently low friction that keeps the currency notes in alignment as the stack is moved along the transport path to a machine user during a cash dispensing operation.
US08561884B2 Multi-communication assisted portable terminal
The device of the invention, starting from the conventional structure of these types of terminals, combines a great variety of peripherals therein, which makes it extremely versatile as well as suitable to use by people with physical disabilities, with an ergonomic and strong design that allows multiple transactions possibilities, multiple communication possibilities, emitting voice messages corresponding to transactions carried out, all these with a high brightness screen, a keypad with Braille reliefs and a joystick to operate the device, also having a scanner and an opening mechanism for the printer cover which prevents it from opening accidentally.
US08561880B2 Forming metal preforms and metal balls
A process and tools for forming and/or releasing metal preforms, metal shapes and solder balls is described incorporating flexible molds or sheets, injection molded metal such as solder and in the case of solder balls, a liquid or gaseous environment to reduce or remove metal oxides prior to or during metal (solder) reflow to increase surface tension to form spherical or substantially spherical solder-balls.
US08561877B2 Structural integrity welded assembly
A welded assembly characterized by improved structural integrity includes a first component disposed along a first plane. The first component includes first and second substantially parallel surfaces, and also includes a channel arranged on the first surface. The welded assembly also includes a second component disposed along a second plane, wherein the second component includes a leading edge. The leading edge of the second component is inserted into the channel of the first component such that an interface is formed between the first and second components. A weld generated on the second surface joins the first component with the second component at the interface such that the assembly is formed. The subject weld may be a friction-stir type of a weld. The subject welded assembly may be a vehicle bumper support. A method of forming such a welded assembly is also disclosed.
US08561872B2 Systems and methods of tissue closure
Apparatus, systems, and methods are described for closing the base of a left atrial appendage or other tissue structure. A tissue closure device comprises a pair of legs having compliant surfaces for engaging against opposite sides of the tissue structure. A plurality of axially spaced-apart tissue-penetrating fasteners are delivered from one leg to the other to pierce the intervening tissue and hold the closure device in place on the tissue structure.
US08561871B2 Indicators for surgical staplers
A surgical stapler including one or more visual indicators is provided. The surgical stapler includes a body and a stapling assembly positioned at a distal portion of the body. The stapling assembly includes a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly. An alignment pin is mounted on the stapling assembly and configured to engage the anvil assembly. A visual indicator of engagement of the alignment pin with the anvil assembly, clamping and/or stapling can be provided.
US08561867B2 Gas combustion type fastener driving machine
In a gas combustion type fastener driving machine, a fuel gas and air are stirred by a fan within a combustion chamber, a stirred air-fuel gas mixture is burned by an ignition spark, and a striking piston is actuated by a combustion pressure to drive a fastening member. The machine is provided with a fan motor (320) for rotating the fan, and a control circuit board (100) for controlling an action of the fan motor (320). The control circuit board (100) detects an actuation signal for an igniter (310) that generates the ignition spark and controls a rotation speed of the fan motor (320) based on the actuation signal.
US08561866B2 Backpack frame system
The present invention involves the provision of a backpack frame assembly and associated load carrying devices. The backpack frame includes a plurality of stays having flexible joints therebetween. A membrane is secured to certain of the stays and helps resist flexing of joints between adjacent stay end portions. Load carrying devices may be provided and are releasably mounted to the frame assembly. The distance between the assembly's shoulder straps and hip belt can be adjusted to accommodate user's having different torso lengths by using an adjuster sheet to separate hook and look members attaching a shoulder strap assembly to a frame assembly. The adjuster sheet can operate as a support element when not operating as an adjuster. The adjuster sheet can be constructed of a laminated composite material and include reinforcing ribs formed therein.
US08561858B2 Auto-vented automatic stop flow pouring spout
The pouring spout includes a first tube detachably connectable to a liquid-storage container, a second tube slideably connected to the first tube, and a liquid outlet duct and an air inlet duct. The liquid outlet duct and the air inlet duct can be both selectively opened and closed by a spring-biased valve system. The air inlet duct, when the valve system is moved from a closed position to an opened position, is initially made in fluid communication with the liquid-storage container only either simultaneously with the liquid outlet duct or immediately after the liquid outlet duct is initially made in fluid communication with the liquid-storage container. This arrangement prevents the liquid from filling the air inlet duct when the liquid is poured using the pouring spout. It also minimizes evaporation and permeability of the liquid on internal surfaces inside the pouring spout.
US08561857B2 Container caps and systems
Caps and container systems suited to dispensing products like cosmetics. Some of the caps include two portions that can be coupled together and that include a dispensing system that has at least two open positions and at least one closed position.
US08561822B2 Multi-gallon capacity blow molded container
A multi-gallon capacity container comprising which comprises a substantially rectangular bottom portion having a chime and a plurality of base channels; a shoulder portion with a neck section for facilitating filling and discharging of liquid from the container and a plurality vertically extending shoulder channels; a body portion which seamlessly connects the bottom portion with the shoulder portion and having a plurality of spaced apart horizontal ribs and rib channels for increasing a lateral wall strength of the container. The container includes a first and second primary columns for increasing a top load strength of the container. Each primary column commences in the shoulder portion, extends substantially continuously along the shoulder portion, across the plurality of horizontal ribs, and terminates at the bottom portion. Each one of the horizontal ribs has a column feature formed therein which is aligned with one of the first and the second primary columns and forms a continuation of primary column from the shoulder portion to the bottom portion.
US08561821B2 Heat set container
A heat set container including a base portion, a shoulder portion, and a sidewall portion extending from the shoulder portion to the base portion. The shoulder portion, the sidewall portion and the base portion cooperate to define a receptacle chamber within the container into which product can be filled. A plurality of vacuum panels are equidistantly disposed about the sidewall portion. A plurality of transition lands are disposed between adjacent ones of the plurality of vacuum panels and spaced outwardly relative thereto. The plurality of vacuum panels and the plurality of transition lands cooperate to be inwardly collapsible from a first outside diameter to a second outside diameter in response to at least internal vacuum forces.
US08561817B1 Winged pusher
A pusher system, for merchandising products, such as plates. The pusher system 2 has a tray 6. The tray 6 has a floor 10. A pair of wings are affixed to both sides of the floor, to hold products centered on the tray. A pusher 40 is slidably mounted on the floor. A spring biases the pusher customerward, thereby propelling the products customerward to barrier, which holds the products, which are forced against the barrier by the pusher.
US08561811B2 Substrate for immobilizing functional substances and method for preparing the same
A substrate having compounds disposed thereon for immobilizing a functional molecule, each compound having a chain including: a moiety R that is chemically coupled to the substrate, the moiety R being selected from the group consisting of an ether, ester, carbonyl, carbonate ester, thioether, disulfide, sulfinyl, sulfonyl, and carbonothioyl; and an epoxide-containing moiety that is coupled to the moiety R by a linker including at least one nucleophilic group. Methods of preparing the substrate and use of the substrate are also disclosed.
US08561809B2 Portable quick fit filter assembly
A portable table top filter assembly including a filter housing enveloping a filter having an inlet and an outlet for the fluid; a flat bottomed filter base having an inlet port and an outlet port communicating with the inlet and outlet of the filter housing and a protruding rim having connectors on an outside surface of the rim recessed from the main body of the filter base, an inlet entry port at a bottom section of the filter base for connecting to a fluid source and communicating with the inlet port of the filter base, an outlet exit port connecting to a fluid delivery device and communicating with the outlet port of the filter base; and, a filter locking ring locking the filter housing to the filter base when a connector at the filter locking ring connects with the connector at the filter base.
US08561807B2 Magnetic drum separator with an electromagnetic pickup magnet having a core in a tapered shape
A magnetic drum separator, for separating ferrous and non-ferrous materials from a material stream. The magnetic drum separator comprising an outer shell that is rotatable around a central axis by a drive mechanism. The outer shell having a tubular length parallel to the central axis and a circular cross-section perpendicular to the central axis. An electromagnet pickup magnet positioned at a fixed location within the circular cross-section has a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis. The pickup magnet has a first end closest to the inner circumference of the outer shell and a second end located near the central axis. The pickup magnet comprises a core, with a backbar abutting it at the second end. The core comprises a plurality of blocks of different widths, in a cross-section perpendicular to the central axis, with the narrowest block at the first end and the widest block abutting the backbar.
US08561805B2 Automatic vibratory separator
Methods for automatically controlling a vibratory separator, e.g., but not limited to a shale shaker for processing drilling fluid, the methods in certain aspects including: introducing material to a vibratory separator; sensing with sensor apparatus a state parameter indicative of operation of the vibratory separator; providing a signal indicative of a value of said state parameter to control apparatus; and, with the control apparatus, automatically controlling the vibratory separator based on the level of the state parameter. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US08561804B2 Screen clamp
A screen clamp (400) including a track (402) configured to secure a shaker screen (420) to a shaker, the track including an angled surface configured to contact a corresponding beveled edge of the shaker screen, the screen clamp further including an upper retainer (404) configured to extend from an inner wall of the shaker over at least a portion of the shaker screen.
US08561800B2 Multi-position stackable container
A container includes a base and a plurality of walls extending upward from a periphery of the base. A pair of supports are movable between a nesting position and at least one stack position. In one embodiment, the container includes projections outwardly from opposed walls that can be supported on the supports of an identical container.
US08561799B2 Nestable container
A nestable container includes a base wall and a pair of side walls and a pair of end walls extending upward from the base wall. The walls are nestable within side walls and end walls of an identical container. The container includes one or more supports, each having a pair of support arms extending from a support bar. The support is movable between a nesting position where the support bar is outward of the base wall, a high stack position where the support bar is a first height over the base wall, and a low stack position where the support bar is a second height over the base wall. The support bar is not directly supported on the side walls when the support is in the high stack position. The support bar is supported on the side walls at a point spaced away from the support bar.
US08561795B2 Low-pressure packaging for fluid devices
Certain aspects of the invention are generally directed to devices for withdrawing a substance from the skin and/or from beneath the skin of a subject, and/or for delivering a substance to the skin and/or to a location beneath the skin of a subject. In some embodiments, the devices may comprise one or more skin insertion objects, such as needles or microneedles. In some cases, the device also may comprise one or more vacuum chambers. In some aspects, the device may be contained within an environment able to assist with maintenance of such pressures. For example, a package containing such an environment may also have a pressure less than atmospheric pressure, and/or the package may be molded to the device or otherwise have a shape that does not contain substantial gases that can “leak” into the device and alter the pressure of any vacuum chambers that may be contained therein.
US08561792B2 Instant self-heating containers
Instant self-heating containers include a combinable reactant and activator used to generate an exothermic reaction for heating contents of the container. One instant self-heating container includes a target container, a pierceable activator container and a reaction chamber. Piercing the activator container causes activator to combine with the reactant and cause an exothermic reaction that heats the target container. The container may be used as depilatory wax dispenser. Another instant self-heating container includes an outer housing containing a contents pouch and a reactant, and capped by a lid having an activator chamber. Rupturing the activator chamber allows activator to combine with the reactant in an exothermic reaction to heat the contents pouch. Another instant self-heating container includes a flexible outer tube containing contents to be heated, a flexible reaction vessel, and a frangible activator vessel. Bending the outer tube causes the activator vessel to rupture and cause an exothermic reaction.
US08561784B2 Apparatus and method for conveying organ packages to a processing station
An apparatus and method for conveying organ packages to a processing station or stations is provided. The apparatus can include a tray-conveyor having a series of trays movable in the conveying direction. Each such tray is arranged to receive an organ package. The tray-conveyor has at least one discharge-station for the organ packages that are to be moved to the processing station or stations.
US08561782B2 Helical conveyor apparatus with integrated pass-through
A material handling system has a helical conveyor apparatus operable in a first mode in which the orientation of a product can be changed and a second mode in which the orientation of the product is unchanged, i.e., passed through. The helical conveyor apparatus has a pair of conveying surfaces, with at least one of the conveying surfaces pivotal relative to the other conveying surface. The conveying surfaces can thus be arranged to twist the product as it is being conveyed or pass the product unaltered.
US08561776B2 Imaging unit and coin identifying apparatus
An imaging unit images a subject having an unevenness pattern on a surface. The imaging unit includes: a surface light source that emits with a constant output illumination light illuminating the surface of the subject; an imager that receives reflected light reflected by the surface of the subject; and a beam splitter that is arranged at a location at which the illumination light emitted from the surface light source and the reflected light incident on the imager intersect with each other. The illumination light emitted from the surface light source is incident on the surface of the subject via the beam splitter. The reflected light reflected by the surface of the subject is incident on the imager via the beam splitter. The illumination light incident on the surface of the subject includes parallel light that is perpendicularly incident on the surface of the subject, and diffused light.
US08561773B2 Drive device
A drive device is provided with a housing 11 and an electromagnetic clutch mechanism 14 accommodated in the housing. The electromagnetic clutch mechanism 14 is provided with an armature 41 rotatably supported in the housing 11, a rotor 42 arranged to face the armature 41 and rotatably supported in the housing 11, and a coil 46. An annular magnet 44 is fixed on the outer circumference surface of the rotor 42. A sensor 15 arranged inside the housing 11 detects a polarity change of the magnet 44 in association with rotation of the rotor 42. The magnet 44 is provided with an annular wall portion 44b extending toward the armature 41 beyond a surface on which the armature 41 is in contact with the rotor 42 with respect to the axial direction. The annular wall portion 44b is spaced radially outward from the armature 41. The annular wall portion 44b prevents abrasion powder produced on actuation of the electromagnetic clutch mechanism 14 from being scattered.
US08561767B2 Shock absorber having self pumping unit
A shock absorber, in which external gas is sucked by movement of a piston rod to obtain compressed gas, which is used for inhibiting the “lag” phenomenon. A piston valve is connected to one end of a piston rod received in an inner shell and moved between rebound and compression strokes, an inner space of the inner shell being divided into a rebound chamber and a compression chamber by the piston valve. A reservoir chamber is provided in an outer shell outside of the inner shell to supply oil to the compression chamber in the rebound stroke and to recover oil in the compression stroke. The shock absorber has a high pressure tank with a high pressure chamber installed outside of the outer shell, and a self pumping unit for sucking gas and pumping it into the high pressure chamber using energy generated by movement of the piston rod.
US08561763B2 Brake device
A brake device includes a pad 100a having a friction surface 101 and a disk 200a having a friction surface 201 sliding on the friction surface 101. The friction surface 101 includes hard particles 102 that are elastically supported in a y direction perpendicular to the friction surface 201. The friction surface 201 includes a plurality of convex portions 202 that is disposed in a direction where the friction surface 201 slides on the friction surface 101. When the friction surface 201 slides on the friction surface 101, the hard particles 102 continuously come into contact with the convex portions 202, respectively, while being displaced in the y direction perpendicular to the friction surface 201. Accordingly, the brake device can improve abrasion resistance as compared to a brake device that mainly performs abrasive friction. When the hard particle 102 comes into contact with the next convex portion 202 after coming into contact with one convex portion 202, the hard particle 102 comes into contact with the convex portion 202 at a position lower than the apex of the convex portion 202. Accordingly, the hard particles 102 continuously come into contact with the convex portions 202 so as to follow the convex portions 202, respectively. Therefore, it may be possible to obtain a larger frictional force.
US08561759B2 Rescue arrangement
The invention relates to a rescue arrangement for effecting a rapid descent from a higher level to a lower level. The rescue arrangement comprises guiding means which extend between the higher level and the lower level, as well as carrying means which are connectable to the guiding means for carrying a person or another object from the higher level to the lower level along the guiding means. Magnetic braking means, which comprise a series of permanent magnets, are located on the guiding means or the carrying means for slowing down the carrying means at least near the lower end of the guiding means.
US08561758B2 Exhaust apparatus of internal combustion engine
An exhaust apparatus for internal combustion engines which can reduce exhaust noises, its weight and production cost with no need to provide a sub-muffler. The exhaust apparatus is provided with an inner pipe having the upstream open end and the downstream open end is disposed in the tail pipe, and the upstream open end of the inner pipe is protruded outwardly from the inside of the tail pipe to be extended into the resonance chamber, and thus the upstream open end is closed by the resonance chamber defined by the outer shell of the muffler, the end plate, and the partition plate.
US08561757B1 Firearm suppressor
Embodiments of the invention relate to a dynamic suppression mechanism for a firearm. Multiple dynamic volume chambers are aligned within a housing. An aperture is provided within the aligned chambers to accommodate the projectile. As the projectile travels through the aperture across the length of the housing, each of the chambers is subject to a dynamic expansion and contraction, with the dynamic volume change absorbing byproduct of the traveling projectile.
US08561750B2 Chain guide device
A chain guide device wherein it is unnecessary to make a chain guide body a thick and heavy member to enhance the productivity of the chain guide body. The chain guide body is split into a left guide half having a left-side upper split surface and a left-side lower split surface which are formed along a longitudinal direction of a chain and a right guide half having a right-side upper split surface and a right-side lower split surface. The guide bodies, which are roughly U-shaped, can be easily demolded after injection molding to enhance productivity. The contact of the chain with the split surfaces is lessened, as compared with the case where split surfaces are inclined at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the chain. Accordingly, wearing of the split surfaces is restrained, and it is unnecessary to make the chain guide body greater in thickness and weight.
US08561746B2 Motorcycle
The motorcycle comprises an engine with a gearbox, a gear group and a drive wheel. A secondary transmission chain placed between the engine and said gear group, whereas a tertiary transmission chain is placed between the gear group and the drive wheel. The secondary transmission chain is placed at one side of the motorcycle and the tertiary transmission chain is placed at an opposite side of the motorcycle with respect to the longitudinal axis thereof. This arrangement is resulted in the motorcycle body having substantially narrower width compared to the width of the prior art motorcycles.
US08561732B2 Offset drive system for utility vehicles
A wheel driven utility vehicle includes a frame and two small volume high speed alternating current electric motors arranged side by side for driving the vehicle. Alternatively high speed direct current, hydraulic or pneumatic direct current motors may be used with suitable controls. Each motor has an output shaft which drives an offset planetary gear reducer. Each offset planetary gear reducer is affixed to the electric motor and includes an output carrier interconnected with an output shaft. Each output shaft includes first and second chain drive sprockets which drive chains interconnected with shafts driving the front and rear wheels respectively. Each offset planetary gear reducer enables use of space saving high speed relatively low-torque alternating current electric motors with attendant large speed reductions. Gear reduction enables the production of sufficient torque at the wheels of the vehicle. Applications in addition to utility vehicles are also specifically contemplated.
US08561730B2 Foot valve assembly for a down hole drill
A retaining assembly for a cylindrical member and support sleeve in the bore of a component of a DTH. The cylindrical member and support sleeve may, for example, be a foot valve assembly for insertion into a counter bore in a bit. The cylindrical member has a cylindrical member rigidity and at least a portion of the support sleeve has a rigidity greater than the cylindrical member rigidity. A gap is provided between the sleeve and the component bore of the DTH. The cylindrical member deforms in the gap, resulting in the cylindrical member being fixedly sandwiched between the support sleeve and the component bore.
US08561729B2 Casing bit and casing reamer designs
A casing end tool has a bowl-like (or cup-like) body defined by a wall having an outer convex surface and an inner concave surface opposite of the outer convex surface. The bowl-like body has a center axis. The inner concave surface is non-axisymmetric with respect to the center axis, while the outer convex surface is axisymmetric with respect to the center axis. The non-axisymmetric configuration is provided in one implementation through the presence of a set of raised boss or land structures formed on the inner concave surface. In another implementation, the non-axisymmetric configuration is provided by channels formed in the inner concave surface.
US08561711B2 Dispensing valve and method for dispensing a fluid under pressure
A dispensing valve apparatus and method for rapidly dispensing fluid from a fluid reservoir of a pressure vessel include a piston translatable within a cavity that closes a discharge passage opening the cavity when positioned in a first position and opens the discharge passage to fluid flow from the fluid reservoir when positioned in a second position. The piston may be rapidly repositioned from its position to its second position by venting a cavity disposed between the piston and an actuator cap by selectively opening a check valve to vent the pressure within the cavity to the discharge passage.
US08561704B2 Flow energy dissipation for downhole injection flow control devices
A well system can include a flow control device which regulates flow of a fluid from an interior of the device outwardly through an exit port, and a deflector which outwardly overlies the exit port and provides fluid communication between the exit port and an annulus formed radially between the deflector and a wellbore lining. The deflector can diffuse the flow of the fluid prior to impingement on the wellbore lining. A flow control assembly can include a flow control device which regulates flow of a fluid from an interior of the device outwardly through an exit port, and a deflector which outwardly overlies the exit port, the deflector including at least one opening, and the opening being circumferentially offset relative to the exit port. A form of an interior surface of the deflector and/or an exterior surface of the flow control device can diffuse the flow of the fluid.
US08561700B1 Method and apparatus for cementing while running casing in a well bore
An improved method and apparatus for dropping a ball, plug or dart during oil and gas well operations (e.g., cementing operations) employs a specially configured valving member with curved and flat portions that alternatively direct fluid flow through a bore or opening in the valving member via an inner channel or around the periphery of the valving member in an outer channel. In one embodiment, the ball(s), dart(s) or plug(s) are contained in a sliding sleeve that shifts position responsive to valve rotation. An optional indicator indicates to a user or operator that a ball or plug has passed a selected one of the valving members.
US08561696B2 Method of placing ball sealers for fluid diversion
A method for placing ball sealers within a well formed within a subterranean formation for sealing holes in a casing of the well is carried out by performing at least one of two operations. The first operation involves providing a tag with at least one ball sealer or a carrier fluid containing the at least one ball sealer to facilitate monitoring of the location of the ball sealer. A tag monitoring device is provided within the well for monitoring the location of the tag. The ball sealer and carrier fluid with the tag are introduced downhole into the well. Information from the monitor device regarding the location of the tag is communicated to a remote monitoring location to the thereby provide an indication of the location of the tag within the well to a surface location. In the second operation a container is provided within the well at a known location downhole within the well. The container contains at least one ball sealer. The ball sealer or sealers are released from the container within the well at the known location in response to an instruction initiated from a surface location.
US08561685B2 Mobile hydraulic workover rig
A hydraulic workover rig including a base structure, a derrick extending from the base structure, a hydraulic lift cylinder connected to the upper end of the derrick, a lower slip assembly connected to the base structure, an upper slip assembly, and at least two snub cylinders connected to the base and the upper slip assembly. A distal end of a piston rod of the lift cylinder is connectable to a pipe string extendable through the upper and lower slip assemblies such that both a lifting force and a snubbing force may be applied simultaneously to the pipe string.
US08561676B2 Cooler using cooling medium
A cooler (20) arranged in a PCU (12) is provided with a bottom plate (22), a top plate (28) and a shell (30) arranged between the bottom plate and the top plate. The shell (30) is provided with an inflow side pipe (32) and an outflow side pipe (34) for making a cooling medium flow inside. The bottom plate (22) is provided with fixing holes (36, 38) for fixing the cooler (20) at a suitable position in the PCU (12). Between the fixing hole (38) and the outflow side pipe (34), a notched section (42) is arranged on the bottom plate (22) to partially reduce rigidity so that the shell (30) does not break when an impulsive power is applied to the cooler (20). A notched section (40) may be arranged between the part where the fixing hole (36) is arranged and the inflow side pipe (32).
US08561673B2 Sealed self-contained fluidic cooling device
A cooling system and method for cooling electronic components. The cooling system employs a cooling device that includes a composite structure having first and second plates arranged substantially in parallel and bonded together to define a sealed cavity therebetween. The first plate has a surface that defines an outer surface of the composite structure and is adapted for thermal contact with at least one electronic component. A mesh of interwoven strands is disposed within the cavity and lies in a plane substantially parallel to the first and second plates. A fluid is contained and sealed within the cavity of the composite structure, and is pumped through interstices defined by and between the strands of the mesh. Flow dividers can define interconnected channels within the cavity.
US08561671B2 Method and twin roll caster for the production of strip cast from a molten metal
A twin roll caster and method for producing strip cast from a molten metal using the twin roll caster. The twin roll caster has casting rolls which delimit a casting gap between them on its longitudinal sides and narrow sides sealed in each case by a side plate which is moved during the casting operation about an axis of oscillation in an oscillating manner. The inventive method and the twin roll caster enable the risk of operational disruptions from molten mass solidifying in the region of the side plate to be further minimized. This is achieved by changing the position of the axis of oscillation during the casting operation.
US08561668B2 Rapid manufacturing method
A rapid manufacturing method includes forming tooling in a rapid manufacturing process. The tooling is coated with a conductive material.
US08561667B1 Window treatment with knuckle joint driver
A window treatment, in which a shade is raised and lowered, is comprised of a roller upon which shade material is reeled and unreeled. A wand drives a universal joint, preferably a uniquely configured knuckle joint, and the universal joint drives a flexible shaft which is connected to the roller. Special shaping of the parts and slots of the U shape links of mating knuckles enables smooth and positive universal joint operation. A user may pull down on the wand, to bend the flexible shaft and bring the knuckles into alignment, whereupon turning of the wand rotates the roller. When the wand is released the resilience of the flexible shaft helps lift the driven knuckle so it is parallel to the horizontal roller, and the drive roller moves to a home position which inhibits counter-rotation of the roller due to the weight of the shade.
US08561663B2 Packaging systems with adhesive seal modules
Apparatus, systems, devices, methods and computer program products configured to provide one or more of the following: improved rotary table or platform packaging systems, improved adhesive (glue) based film seal systems, and/or easier loading or releasing mounting systems of horns, forming collars and/or sprockets.
US08561662B2 Apparatus and a method for curing a liner of a pipeline
The present invention relates to an apparatus for curing a liner of a pipeline where the liner includes a resin which is curable by exposure to electromagnetic radiation of a specific wavelength or a specific wavelength range. The apparatus comprises a housing defining opposite first and second ends, an outer wall of a substantially cylindrical configuration, and an inner wall defining a substantially unobstructed through-going passage extending longitudinally through the housing between the first and second ends, and further comprises a pair of power supply wires for the supply of electrical power to the apparatus and extending from the first end of the housing, and a plurality of LED's irradiating electromagnetic radiation of the specific wavelength or the specific wavelength range. The plurality of LED's is positioned and substantially evenly distributed at the outer wall of the housing, and is connected through an electronic circuit to the pair of power supply wires. The plurality of LED's is further connected in thermal conductive relationship to heat dissipating elements freely exposed at the inner wall of the housing in the through-going passage of the housing for allowing a stream of cooling fluid to pass through the passage for dissipating heat from the heat dissipating elements and cooling the LED's.
US08561657B2 Marine fuel tank ullage system
A ullage system for a marine fuel tank that maintains an exact ullage space in all marine refueling situations including refueling in moving or pitching and rolling situations. The invention includes two ball valve assemblies that are inserted into a fuel tank at approximately the same level. The two assemblies typically are at opposite ends of the tank. One of the ball valves is smaller than the other in diameter. The smaller valve is coupled to an air vent; the larger valve is coupled to the filler tube. An important feature of the present invention is that it can typically be made to fit any marine fuel tank simply by changing the length of a vent tube to reach the correct ullage level for the tank at hand. The components of the present invention can be made from standard fuel valve materials.
US08561656B2 Adaptable bench top filling system
A semi-automatic benchtop filling system that allows the user to switch between pump technologies while utilizing one base unit. The base unit is outfitted to accommodate peristaltic, lobe, gear, and piston pumps providing a maximum amount of flexibility and versatility in one unit. The base unit employs a computerized servo motor control system and docking hardware for driving any of the four different pump types. The system is designed to automate the filling of sample containers regardless of which pump is mounted by tare weighting, and the drive will adjust itself to dispense the correct weight. The pump drive includes appropriate reduction gearing and quick disconnect flexible couplings for each of the different pump types, a side-mounted adapter for connecting any of the peristaltic, gear and lobe pumps, and a separate piston drive assembly and dock-connector at the rear for a piston pump. The device includes a touch-screen interface with control software for user-setup, establishing different fill recipes, and run time.
US08561645B2 Two-shutter three-way valve
A three-way valve (1) with two flaps (5, 6) respectively positioned in two of the three paths (2, 3) of the valve and comprising means (7-12) for controlling and actuating the flaps (5, 6) to make them pivot from one to the other of two positions in which the paths (2, 3) are either open or closed. Single control means (7) are provided for both flaps (5, 6), and there are actuating means (9-12) designed to be controlled by the single control means (7) and to actuate the two flaps (5, 6) with a temporal phase shift.
US08561639B1 Flow check valve assembly and method
The present invention provides, in part, a valve assembly and method that maintains balance of flow to pressure. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a main body component, a chamber body component, a fluid control plate and seal, and a chamber cap. The chamber body component is adapted to slidingly engage the main body member. A spring assists in biasing the chamber body component in position within the main body component. The chamber cap with a sealing ring assists in preventing backflow of fluid into an outer body or tube member while also providing an opposing force to movement of the chamber body member within the main body member. A sealing ring is also provided around the head portion of the chamber body member. An additional sealing ring can be provided in a cavity on the outside of the main body member.
US08561629B2 Method and a device for draining a tank, and a tank and an aircraft fitted with such a device
The present invention relates to a method of draining a tank (2) having a plate, the plate (12) including a canister (19) having an outer casing (20) provided with a base (19′) that is pressed against the plate (12), the base (19′) presenting at least one through orifice (21) suitable for being closed by a movable member (22) of the canister (19), the plate (12) carrying a pump (30) that co-operates with the canister (19) by actuating the movable member (22) to open the through orifice (21), during which method the pump (30) is removed from the canister (19) and then a fluid connector (50) is inserted to take the place of the pump (30), the fluid connector (50) co-operating with the canister (19) by actuating the movable member (22) to release the through orifice (21) in order to drain the tank (2) via the fluid connector (50).
US08561628B2 Continuous gas service restoration and meter change-out system
An assembly for maintaining flow between an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit. The assembly may include a first plate having an inlet notch sized to engage the inlet conduit and an outlet notch sized to engage the outlet conduit, and a second plate having an inlet notch sized to engage the inlet conduit and an outlet notch sized to engage the outlet conduit. The assembly may also include a first connecting member coupled to the first plate and the second plate and a bag having at least one glove port coupled to a second connecting member. The first connecting member may be connected to the second connecting member.
US08561625B2 Sun-tracing sunshade apparatus
A sun-tracing sunshade apparatus includes a support, a first top shade member rotatably mounted on the support, a lateral shade member pivotally coupled to the first top shade member, a drive unit installed in the support and adapted for rotating the first top shade member relative to the support, a sun tracker electrically coupled with the drive unit and adapted for sensing the direction of the sun and providing a corresponding signal to the drive unit, and a push member mounted on the support and movable to touch the lateral shade member and to further bias the lateral shade member relative to the first top shade member. Thus, the first top shade member can be turned subject to the direction of sunlight to move the lateral shade member to the optimal shading position, providing excellent sun-shading effect. Further, when the lateral shade member is moved to the front side of the user, it can be lifted by the push member, avoiding hindering the user's sight.
US08561623B2 Apparatus for removing debris from gutters, troughs and other overhead open conduits
The apparatus removes debris from overhead open conduits. The apparatus includes a shaped conduit with closed sidewalls. The top portion of the shaped conduit exhibits a bend which permits it to reach into the open conduit. The portion of conduit beneath the bend is straight. On the straight portion there is an on-off switch which sends a wireless signal to a switch on a source of vacuum which is attached to the straight portion. Adjacent the on-off switch there may be a valve which controls an amount of water applied from a water line attached to the shaped conduit.
US08561602B2 Gas feature and method
Gas fire devices are provided that produce a swirling flame by passive means using the kinetic energy of gas exiting through burner ports located in a burner and the kinetic energy of air drawn through louvers or flaps radially positioned on the base of a plenum. Situated above the burner and plenum is a chimney, which surrounds the flame and may be a translucent or transparent material to help observers better see the flame.
US08561600B2 Paintball loader
A paintball loader for use on a paintball gun for feeding paintballs is provided. The paintball loader includes a container for holding a plurality of paintballs, a paintball agitator rotatably mounted in the container, the paintball agitator including at least two fins extending substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the fins spaced apart from each other forming a gap therebetween large enough to accommodate more than one paintball. At least two paintballs are positioned in the gap between the fins. A motor is configured to rotate the paintball agitator. The container includes an exit tube exiting from the bottom portion of the container and leading to an inlet tube of the paintball gun. A microprocessor in communication with a sensor may also be provided for controlling the motor. A deflector for deflecting paintballs may also be provided, the deflector movably attached to the interior surface of the container.
US08561596B2 Low fuel engine restarting
A fuel system includes a fuel tank, a fill neck through which fuel enters the tank, a fuel pump module located in the fuel tank, and a fuel retention component including a lower surface on which the fuel pump module is supported, first and second walls enclosing the lower surface, and a ramp directed from the fill neck toward the lower surface enclosed by the walls.
US08561595B2 Drive-integrated type BLDC fuel pump module
Provided is a driver-integrated type BLDC fuel pump module, which is used in a vehicle and in which a driver used for controlling the operation of a BLDC fuel pump is installed in a flange of the BLDC fuel pump module, thus removing the spatial limit caused when the driver is installed and reducing the length of an electric wire electrically connecting the driver to a BLDC fuel pump of the module, thereby solving the problem of the operational performance of the BLDC fuel pump deteriorating as a result of both the voltage drop in the electric wire and a reduction in the operational efficiency of the pump.
US08561593B2 Range of engines using common rail fuel system with pump and rail assemblies having common components
A pump and rail assembly includes a plurality of quills that are compressed between quill seats on a pump and an output rail. A rail pressure control valve and a rail pressure sensor are attached to respective ends of the output rail. An inlet throttle valve is attached to a housing of the pump and rail assembly. Depending upon the application, the output rail may supply fuel to a first injection bank that includes a plurality of fuel injectors in a first common rail, and a second fuel injection bank that includes a second common rail and a plurality of fuel injectors. Different engines having different numbers of cylinders may use similar pump and rail assemblies that each include a plurality of quills, a plurality of pumping elements positioned in a pump housing and an output rail. The quills for each of the different engine applications are interchangeable but differ in number. In addition, the pumping elements of each of the different engine applications are also interchangeable but differ in number.
US08561581B2 Two-stroke uniflow turbo-compound internal combustion engine
A radial, two-stroke uniflow internal combustion (IC) cylinder and multiple cylinder engine, the cylinder having a cylinder wall and a cylinder head, the cylinder head having an exhaust port, a fuel injector, and a spark means disposed through the cylinder head, a piston reciprocally mounted in the cylinder for movement alternately through compression and power strokes, and an inlet swirl port disposed through the cylinder wall providing fluid communication into the cylinder chamber, and having an annular exhaust air manifold in exhaust gas communication with each exhaust ports, and an exhaust-driven radial in-flow turbine that drives the inlet air compression.
US08561578B2 Hydrogen generator and internal combustion engine provided with hydrogen generator
A hydrogen generator provided with a cracker which cracks a compound containing hydrogen atoms and nitrogen atoms to generate hydrogen, a compound feeder which feeds the compound to the cracker, and an oxygen feeder which feeds oxygen to the cracker. The cracker includes catalyst particles which promote the cracking of the compound and catalyst particles which promote the oxidation of the compound. The cracker is fed with the compound and oxygen, causes the compound to oxidize to generate heat of oxidation, and uses the generated heat of oxidation to crack the compound.
US08561576B2 Chute for immobilizing livestock
A portable chute for immobilizing an animal having a frame structure configured to receive an animal, an entrance gate having a movable retainer member associated therewith for selectively engaging the rear portion of the animal, an exit gate having a selectively movable stanchion member for adjustably controlling the size of an opening associated therewith for immobilizing the head and neck area of the animal, at least one belly strap associated with an elongated arm operatively coupled thereto for engaging the animal's midsection when positioned within the frame structure, and an arm assembly operatively connected to the frame structure for pivotally rotating the entire chute between an upright vertical loading/unloading position and a horizontal operative position for treating the hooves of the animal. The chute assembly can be mounted to the bed of a vehicle and is always maintained in its vertical position above ground level. The vehicle may include a stabilizer assembly for further supporting the vehicle when the chute is pivotally rotated between its horizontal and vertical positions.
US08561569B2 Method for coating the inner walls of pipes and device suitable therefor
A combined heating and cooling device for coating the inner walls of pipes may include heating areas and cooling areas. This device can be guided along the pipe to be coated, wherein a fluid containing the coating active agent is supplied to the interior of the pipe. The combined heating and cooling treatment for the pipe supports the process of coating formation. The cooling process is subject to a desired profile by the use of the cooling area and is not determined by chance.
US08561563B2 Side-by-side mooring bay
A mooring system may comprise a station keeping apparatus having a turntable rotatably mounted thereon. The station keeping apparatus is operable to movably couple to a first vessel and to a second vessel in a side-by-side configuration. The turntable is operable to freely rotate both the first and the second vessel about the station keeping apparatus. The station keeping apparatus is securable to the second vessel using a head mooring line having a length which is adjustable for aligning a heading of both the first and the second vessel with a prevailing weather direction. Further, the mooring system may comprise a rigid yoke or a soft yoke movably coupling the turntable to the first vessel for angular adjustment between the station keeping apparatus and a longitudinal center line of the first vessel.
US08561561B2 Watercraft, water diverter, entanglement system, and defense system for watercraft
A watercraft includes a hull and a water diverter. The water diverter comprises at least one first deflector configured to direct water upward and outward from the hull of the watercraft to create a wave. The water diverter may include a support structure in the shape of a hollow tube for the first deflector, and a second deflector positioned above the first deflector. An entanglement system for defending watercraft includes a main cable attached to the watercraft and at least one strand section. Each strand section includes a connector and a plurality of strands attached to the connector, and each strand section is attached to the main cable. A defense system for watercraft can include both a water diverter and an entanglement system.
US08561555B2 Oxyfuel combustion boiler plant and operating method for the same
An oxyfuel combustion boiler plant having a first boiler and a second boiler for injecting gas including oxygen in higher concentration than that in the air, gas including carbon dioxide in higher concentration than that in the air, and fuel from a burner and generating steam by combustion gas in a furnace, respectively, comprising: an exhaust gas supply pipe for supplying exhaust gas discharged from the first boiler to a burner of the second boiler, and a gas flow rate control apparatus for controlling a flow rate of exhaust gas flowing through the exhaust gas supply pipe.
US08561553B2 Solid fuel nozzle tip assembly
A solid fuel nozzle tip for issuing a flow of mixed solid fuel and air into a boiler or furnace includes an outer nozzle body having an outer flow channel extending therethrough from an inlet to an outlet of the outer nozzle body. An inner nozzle body has an inner flow channel extending therethrough from an inlet to an outlet of the inner nozzle body. The inner nozzle body is mounted within the outer nozzle body with the inner flow channel inboard of and substantially aligned with the outer flow channel. The inner and outer nozzle bodies are joined together so as to accommodate movement relative to one another due to thermal expansion and contraction of the outer and inner nozzle bodies.
US08561541B2 Propellant charge body
A propellant charge body for insertion into a propellant charge chamber in a firearm for firing caseless ammunition has a base body which contains a propellant charge. The diameter of the base body is less than the internal diameter of the propellant charge chamber. Radial projections are formed in one or more subareas on the circumference of the base body and match the radius of the base body in these subareas to the internal radius of the propellant charge chamber.
US08561539B2 Method for regulating a web tension and/or register
In a method for regulating a web tension and/or a register of a processing machine used to process a material web (101), in particular a shaftless printing press (100), the material web (101) is processed in at least one processing unit (111-114, 121-124, 131-134); the elasticity module of the material of the material web (101) is changed by moisture entering the material, and/or by moisture leaving the material, a quantity that represents the addition of moisture to the material and/or the loss of moisture from the material being taken into account in the regulation.
US08561537B2 Apparatus for the automatic determination of presetting values for inking zone setting elements of an inking unit of a press
At least one mark is integrated into an image data set from a prepress stage, and the mark is scanned in order to automatically determine a region or an extract of the image data set which is relevant to the determination of zonal area coverage values. Zonal area coverage values for a print are determined from the region or extract, and presetting values for the inking zone setting elements are determined from the zonal area coverage values.
US08561534B2 Decorating an elongated element
A decorating apparatus comprises an advancing arrangement for advancing an elongated element in an advancing direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated element and a plurality of decorating devices positioned downstream one another along the advancing arrangement for decorating distinct surfaces of said elongated element, each decorating device comprising a decorating unit for decorating a respective surface of the elongated element, the decorating unit comprising: a transferring device for transferring a flowable material on the elongated element, including a transferring roller rotatable around a rotation axis and arranged for interacting with the elongated element, the transferring roller being made of deformable material so that non-flat surfaces can be decorated; a kiln arrangement arranged downstream of the transferring device for heating said flowable material applied to said elongated element.
US08561527B2 Tortilla toaster
The present invention discloses a cooking apparatus having a pan with a sidewall, a bottom wall and a grill top. The bottom wall has a top surface and a bottom surface, with the bottom surface facing a heating source and the top surface facing an air space. A grill covering is disposed on top of the sidewall, with the air space forming between the grill covering and the top surface of the bottom wall. The sidewall also contains at least one handle.
US08561524B2 Beverage brewing device
The beverage brewing device is configured for use with a beverage brewer having an inlet probe for dispensing water and an outlet probe. The beverage brewing device includes a body defining a brew chamber configured to contain a dry beverage medium and at least one outlet probe receptacle defined in the body and extending upwardly from a bottom surface of the body. The at least one outlet probe receptacle is sized and configured to receive an outlet probe of a beverage brewer. A lid is removably securable to the body and is engageable with the body to selectively enclose a top opening of the body. An inlet probe opening is defined in the lid for receiving an inlet probe of the beverage brewer. At least one filter is defined within in the body, wherein the filter is configured to retain a dry beverage medium within the brew chamber while allowing a brewed beverage to pass through the brew chamber.
US08561517B2 Firearm having a handle assembly for charging and forward assist
A firearm includes a receiver and a bolt carrier disposed in the receiver. The bolt carrier is moveable between a firing position and a rearward position. A rod is fixed relative to the bolt carrier and a hand guard is coupled to the receiver about the rod. A handle assembly is slideably supported by the hand guard and is moveable toward the receiver to define a charging motion and away from the receiver to define a forward assist motion. The handle assembly receives the rod during both of the charging and forward assist motions. An arm is coupled to the base and is moveable between a disengaged position spaced from the rod and an engaged position abutting the rod. When the arm is in the engaged position, the handle assembly is moved to move the rod and the bolt carrier in either of the charging and the forward assist motions.
US08561516B2 System and method for non-lethal vehicle restraint
An undercarriage immobilization device and method of restraining a vehicle uses tendrils and straps to engage the vehicle. The tendrils and straps will wrap around moving parts of the vehicle and restrain the moving parts to eventually incapacitate the vehicle. The undercarriage immobilization device includes a housing that contains tendrils that are launched from the housing by a propellant or compressed gas. The tendrils may be attached to the straps carried by the undercarriage immobilization device. Straps may be pulled off the housing leaving the housing near the point of deployment.
US08561513B2 Miter saw
A miter saw for cutting a workpiece is disclosed. The miter saw has a base section, a holder section, a saw blade section, a saw blade support section, and a guide bar. The base section has an upper surface for supporting a workpiece to be cut. The holder section stands from the base portion. The saw blade section has a circular saw blade for cutting the workpiece. The saw blade support section pivotably supports the saw blade section. The guide bar slidably supports the saw blade support section. The guide bar is slidably supported by the holder section. The guide bar extends substantially parallel to the upper surface of the base section. The saw blade support portion is slidable along the guide bar.
US08561512B2 Cutoff saw and stand with integrated dust filtration system
A cutoff saw and filtration system provides convenient multi-stage filtration for a cutoff saw. The filters are effective in capturing the dust and debris created by the saw without becoming clogged. The filters may be easily cleaned and serviced.
US08561505B2 Multiple-link tool assembly, tool extension, and method
A multiple-link tool assembly includes an elongated handle, an exchangeable extension link, and an exchangeable tool link. The exchangeable extension link has a first connecting end removably linked to the handle, and a second connecting end defining a sectioned cavity. The sectioned cavity includes an internally serrated cavity section and a non-serrated cavity section. An adjustable geometric connector having an externally serrated base is received and retained within the sectioned cavity. A spring is located within the non-serrated cavity section, and is adapted for normally urging the externally serrated base of the geometric connector into the internally serrated cavity section. The exchangeable tool link has a proximal end removably joined to the geometric connector of the extension link, and a fastener-engaging distal end adapted for engaging a threaded fastener.
US08561502B2 Dual drive pump system with one way clutches
A dual drive pump system for rear wheel or front wheel drive automatic transmission in a motor vehicle includes a dual drive pump disposed off-axis of the transmission input shaft axis and driven by a gear train driven by a hub. The dual drive pump is also driven by a gear train driven by an auxiliary motor. Torque multiplication through the gear train allows the dual drive pump to have a smaller displacement while still providing the hydraulic pressure needs of the transmission. Each gear train is connected to the dual drive pump via back-to-back one way clutches (OWC). The dual drive pump may be driven by either an engine or the auxiliary motor depending on the operating conditions of the motor vehicle.
US08561501B2 Gearbox mount bracket
A bracket for attaching a gearbox to an engine casing has a first portion having a first array of openings for receiving attachments therethrough, the first portion having, on a backside thereof, a first rail for engaging a slot in the engine casing, and a second portion having a second array of openings for receiving attachments therethrough. A hookup for attaching to the gearbox attaches to and in between the first portion and the second portion for diminishing effects of radial rotation between the casing and the gearbox.
US08561500B2 Bicycle with bearing preload mechanism
A crankset for a bicycle that includes a first crank, a second crank, a spindle, a bearing, and a preload mechanism. Each of the first crank and the second crank has an end adapted to engage a pedal. The spindle defines an axis and includes a first end that is coupled to the first crank and a second end that is coupled to the second crank. The bearing positioned around the spindle between the first crank and the second crank to permit rotation of the spindle. The preload mechanism is coupled to the spindle between the bearing and the first crank. The preload mechanism includes a washer that extends circumferentially around the spindle and a cam member that is engageable with the washer to move the washer along the axis to preload the bearing.
US08561499B1 Centrifugal pendulum absorber
A pendulum absorber assembly for a torque converter including a first spring retainer, a second spring retainer, and a floating flange positioned between the first spring retainer and the second spring retainer. The pendulum absorber assembly also includes a drive plate affixed to the floating flange, a plurality of arcuate springs disposed between the second spring retainer and the drive plate, and a plurality of pendulum weights affixed to the second spring retainer, wherein the pendulum weights are made of tungsten alloy.
US08561478B2 Rotating fluid measurement device and method
Fluid flow measurement device and method. In one embodiment, a tool comprises a rotating arm with a sensor pad to measure fluid flow into or out of the casing wall. The arm maintains the sensor pad in close proximity to the casing inner wall. The tool diameter is variable to allow the tool to traverse variable diameter casings and pass obstacles. The sensor pad comprises flow channels to direct the flow of fluid by electromagnetic sensors configured to detect conductive fluid flow.
US08561474B2 Triaxial cell for the testing of geomaterials in compression and in tension
The invention relates to a triaxial cell for testing geomaterials on specimens. The triaxial cell has at least one piston for subjecting a specimen to stress directed along the longitudinal axis of the specimen. Hydraulic means are provided for subjecting the lateral wall of the specimen to a stress, under the pressure of a fluid. The cell has at least one sealed test chamber-in which the specimen is placed, and a circuit for the controlled pressurization of said test chamber with a fluid, called the pressurizing fluid, and for the controlled draining of said fluid therefrom. The cell has mechanisms for subjecting the specimen to a tensile force, which are configured for removably fastening it between two attachments intended to move apart or closer together under the action of the piston so as to subject said specimen to longitudinal stress or on the contrary to remove the load therefrom.
US08561471B2 Capacitive pressure sensor with improved electrode structure
An improved capacitive manometer comprises a diaphragm that is constrained relative to an electrode structure spaced from the diaphragm. An electrode support structure is arranged to support the electrode structure and comprises a compliant ring including at least three flexures integrally formed in the ring and angularly spaced around the alignment axis. The electrode support is clamped in place relative to the diaphragm at the locations of the compliant ring flexures.
US08561470B2 Apparatus and method for eliminating varying pressure fluctuations in a pressure transducer
A single pressure sensing capsule has a reference pressure ported to the rear side of a silicon sensing die. The front side of the silicon sensing die receives a main pressure at another port. The difference between the main and reference pressure results in the sensor providing an differential pressure output. The reference pressure or main pressure may be derived from a pump pressure which is being monitored. The pump pressure output is subjected to a pump ripple or a sinusoidally varying pressure. In order to compensate for pump ripple, a coiled tube or an adjustable dampening chamber comprising a spiral inlet tube and a volume cavity can be used. The tube length is selected to suppress the pump ripple as applied to the sensor die. In this manner, the pump ripple cannot cause resonance which would result in pressure amplification and which pressure amplification would destroy the sensor.
US08561467B2 Angular velocity sensor element, angular velocity sensor and angular velocity sensor unit both using angular velocity sensor element, and signal detecting method for angular velocity sensor unit
The angular velocity sensor of the present invention has one end connected to holding section and the other end connected to weighting section. According to the angular velocity sensor, driving arm has a dog-leg structure of arms extending in a direction perpendicular to a connecting direction of holding section and weighting section.
US08561449B2 Bending apparatus for rod-shaped workpieces
In a bending apparatus for rod-shaped workpieces, comprising a machine frame to which a bending head with bending tools is attached, which bending head is movable relative to the frame, further a feed device upstream of the bending head for feeding the workpieces to the same, and a cutting device which can be displaced in the direction of feed of the workpieces and can be applied between bending head and feed device to the respective workpiece for cutting the same, the feed device can also be displaced in the direction of feed of the workpiece in addition to the cutting device, which occurs independent of the displacement of the cutting device.
US08561437B2 Washing machine and sound control method thereof
Disclosed herein are a washing machine and a sound control method thereof that are capable of canceling noise generated during an operation of the washing machine and, at the same time, informing a user of information related to the operation of the washing machine using a sound. The sound control method includes operating the washing machine according to an inputted operation command, sensing noise generated during the operation of the washing machine, reading a sound to cancel the sensed noise, and outputting the read sound in a state in which the read sound is mapped with the noise. Consequently, it is possible mask the noise, thereby minimizing the noise. Also, it is possible to sense a start and an end of each operation and a change of the operation based on the noise pattern, sense a user's access to the washing machine, and output a feedback sound, thereby informing of the progress information of the washing machine.
US08561430B2 Immersed burner with regulated flame
The melting of glass batch materials by at least one submerged burner generating a flame within the molten batch materials. At least one gas inlet separate from the burner is close enough to the burner to interact with the flame. The separate influx interacts with the flame of the burner to regulate it, thereby reducing the risk of molten materials entering the burner.
US08561418B2 Refrigeration system with parallel evaporators and variable speed compressor
A refrigeration system for controlling airflow around an air-cooled heat generating device having a plurality of components includes a refrigerant line split into second refrigerant lines, which are arranged in a parallel configuration with respect to each other. Evaporators are positioned along the second refrigerant lines and in the path of airflow supplied into the components or airflow exhausted from the components. The refrigeration system further includes a variable speed compressor and a controller for controlling the speed of the variable speed compressor. Furthermore, the refrigeration system includes a temperature sensor configured to transmit signals related to a detected temperature to the controller, and the controller is configured to vary the speed of the variable speed compressor based upon the detected temperature.
US08561401B2 Pedal feel simulator actuator and cutoff assembly
A braking system includes an emulator cylinder, an emulator actuator piston within the emulator cylinder, an emulator actuator chamber within the emulator cylinder defined in part by the emulator actuator piston, a pedal feel simulator including an input port in fluid communication with the emulator actuator chamber and an output port, a selector piston movable within the emulator cylinder between a first position and a second position, and a poppet valve operably connected to the emulator actuator piston, the poppet valve movable by the emulator actuator piston between a deactivated position and an actuated position and configured such that (i) when the selector piston is in the first position and the poppet valve is in the actuated position, the poppet valve is closed and the emulator actuator chamber is not in fluid communication with the reservoir through the poppet valve, and (ii) when the selector piston is in the second position and the poppet valve is in the actuated position, the poppet valve is open and the emulator actuator chamber is in fluid communication with the reservoir through the poppet valve.
US08561376B2 Device for dispensing a product in a petri dish
The disclosure relates to a device for dispensing a prescribed product in a Petri dish, the device comprising pistons, a transfer member with lid-bearing openings and a dish bottom, and a dispensor. According to the disclosure, the transfer member is a shuttle capable of translation relative to the base according to a direct reciprocating movement of the bearing openings between either of first and second stop positions, the dispensor being arranged so as to dispense the product above the inner opening and under the upper opening at the bottom of the dish when the openings are in a position selected from the first and second stop positions.
US08561375B2 Line synchronization
A system for producing and transporting portions of food includes a filling machine for continuously transporting a stream of food, a separating device for dividing portions from the transported food stream, and a transport device for delivering the portions to a subsequent processing device. To prevent fluctuations in portion size and weight, the system further includes a sensor unit for generating a portion request signal in response to a portion request from the subsequent processing device. The sensor unit outputs the portion request signal to the filling machine, which is designed to control the continuous transportation of the food stream using the portion request signal. The system is operable to synchronize the entire line, including the filling machine, the separating device, the transport device, and the subsequent processing device.
US08561373B1 Bamboo I-beam with laminated web and flanges
A high strength bamboo I-beam is provided comprising a bamboo web formed from bamboo boards formed by splaying, pressing and planing bamboo culm and having flanges laminated to the top and bottom of the web. The I-beam flanges each comprise a laminated bamboo flange element on either side of the web portion wherein the top and bottom edges of the web portion are flush with the top and bottom flanges of the I-beam. The flange elements are formed from laminated strips of splayed, pressed and planed bamboo culm. The I-beam is bonded with non-formaldehyde adhesives. Orientation of the high fiber cortex regions of the bamboo boards imparts structural characteristics to the beam. The bamboo I-beam provides a lightweight, low cost, high strength, and fire resistant load bearing construction component.
US08561371B2 Barrier wall and method of forming wall panels between vertical wall stiffeners with support members extending partially through the wall panels
A sound barrier wall has a plurality of footings spaced apart and vertical “I” beam wall stiffeners mounted to the footings. Alternatively, the vertical wall stiffeners are mounted to a crash barrier. A horizontal wall stiffener can be disposed between the adjacent vertical wall stiffeners. A plurality of wall panels is vertically stacked between adjacent vertical wall stiffeners. Each wall panel includes a sound insulating block, and plurality of support members disposed on opposite sides of the sound insulating block for providing structural support. Each support member has a head portion in contact with a surface of the sound insulating block and a stem portion extending into the sound insulating block. An “I” beam can be disposed between the vertically stacked wall panels. A top cap is mounted over the vertically stacked wall panels and protective layer is formed over the wall panels and vertical wall stiffeners.
US08561363B2 Apparatus and method for stabilizing headstones
An apparatus and method for stabilizing a headstone. A substantially-rigid perforated member is provided having a headstone aperture formed therein. The perforated member includes at least one anchor extending away from the perforated member to be driven into the ground. At least one securing member is disposed at the headstone aperture of the perforated member to secure the stabilizing apparatus to the headstone. The method includes providing such a perforated member, removing existing sod from around the headstone, placing the perforated member over the headstone with the headstone extending through the headstone aperture so that the perforated member is next to the ground, adjusting a securing member so as to secure the stabilizing apparatus to the headstone, and placing sod on top of the perforated member.
US08561361B2 Anchoring system
A ground (G) anchoring system (100) for various objects (O), such as building structures, warranties great stability, strength to mechanical stress and simplicity of installation, although having a structure of easy and economical manufacturing and comprising at least two elongated tubular guiding members (2), having a closed cross section and that are apt to define a tilted inserting direction (I), and inside which an anchoring rod (5) is inserted. The elongated members (2) are formed as distinct bodies fixed to a substantially flat developing supporting surface (1, 11), to which the object (O) to be anchored to the ground is connected and they have a longitudinal extension at least equal to about the distance (D) between two adjoining inserting end (21).
US08561360B2 Sound arresting barrier
A sound barrier wall suitable for new installations and for retrofitting existing sound barrier walls includes a plurality of vertically extending posts and a plurality of wall sections disposed between pairs of the posts. The posts may have generally I-shaped cross sections with oppositely disposed channels defined by flanges on opposite sides of the posts. The sound barrier may further include post covers coupled with the respective posts. The post covers may have lip portions that are received over the flanges of the posts. The wall sections are received within the respective channels and may contact at least one of the lip portions of the post covers.
US08561358B2 Shelter building
Housing for emergencies or for those in need could be a short-term solution or may be set up as a longer-term shelter. The shelter may be flexible to grow and change enough to accommodate the individual, the family and the community. The shelter is more substantial than a tent and easier to assemble and transport as compared to conventional shelters. The shelter can be transported in a standard size truck bed (for example, 4 feet by 8 feet) and erected by two individuals in a minimal amount of time, typically less than an hour. The walls of the shelter may include various features, including shelving, bathing facilities, sinks, beds, lighting, and the like. The shelters may be designed to be connected to external electric and water supplies. Optionally, the shelters may be designed as stand-alone, “off-the-grid” units. The ceiling of the shelter may include one or more solar panels to provide power for the shelter. The shelter's container provides the essentials needed to sustain life. This takes away the need for standing in multiple lines and gives the much needed immediate help.
US08561354B2 Lower door structure for flush glass system
An automobile door assembly is provided that includes an outer panel, an inner panel, a moveable glass piece having an inboard surface, wherein the moveable glass piece is disposed between the outer panel and the inner panel. The assembly also includes a glass guiding member operably connected to the inboard surface of the glass piece. The assembly further includes a retaining structure having a channel configured to slideably retain the glass guiding member, wherein the retaining structure is operably connected to the inner panel.
US08561353B2 Quarter window
A quarter window attached to a door frame of a vehicle rear door includes a quarter window panel and a window frame. The quarter window panel is made of a synthetic resin material. The window frame includes a division bar and a sealing portion. The division bar is configured such that a glass run can be fitted to the division bar and a part of the division bar serves as a part of the sealing portion. The sealing portion is integrally coupled to the quarter window panel so as to extend along the periphery of a side of the quarter window panel that faces inside of the vehicle. A part of the sealing portion is capable of being fitted to the door frame. The quarter window panel and the window frame are integrally molded. The window frame is made of a synthetic resin having a high rigidity. A fixing portion for fixing the window frame to the door frame is integrally formed with the window frame.
US08561352B2 Sliding door
A sliding door with a door leaf, which is suspended from at least one carriage and guided to be displaceable along a roller rail profile disposed at a wall or at a ceiling. The sliding door includes a closing device, which is suitable to displace the door leaf into a closed position in a decelerated manner. The closing device is disposed at the door leaf and includes a first and a second spring-damper element, which are disposed to be counter-directional to each other. The second spring-damper element is suitable to displace the door leaf into an open position in a decelerated manner.
US08561350B2 Bracket for window regulator window regulator and vehicle body
A vehicle window regulator includes a fixing lug including a first part for fixing to a window guide rail having a window-guiding direction and a second part for fixing to a vehicle body. The second part defines a plane, and a normal line perpendicular to the plane that is inclined relative to the window-guiding direction. The normal line is preferably inclined at an angle of approximately 45° relative to the window-guiding direction. The lug can be fixed in the vehicle body without the lug turning on itself during fixing by screwing, for example.
US08561339B2 Rail for inductively powering firearm accessories
A method and system for an inductively powering rail on a firearm to power accessories such as: telescopic sights, tactical sights, laser sighting modules, and night vision scopes. This is achieved by having primary and secondary electromagnets (U-Cores) on both the inductively powering rail and the accessory. Once the electromagnets are in contact, the accessory is able to obtain power through induction via the inductively powering rail. Accessories may be attached to various fixture points on the inductively powering rail and are detected by the firearm when attached and detached. When attached, power and data communications may flow between the accessory and a master CPU located on the firearm. Accessories that are attached to the inductively powering rail and have rechargeable power systems may be recharged via the inductive power rail. Further, accessories that have power that is not needed may be transferred to other accessories.
US08561337B2 Monolithic rail platform and bolt assemblies for a firearm
A firearm assembly for a firearm can include a monolithic rail platform with a handguard portion and an upper receiver portion. The barrel of the firearm can be positioned through the handguard portion and secured with the upper receiver portion. A firearm assembly can also include a bolt assembly with a bolt carrier having minimized land area and a forward end sized for receipt in the barrel extension at the rearward end of the barrel.
US08561333B2 Snap N place sign system and method of use for interior signs
A Snap N Place sign system and method for supporting a sign message includes a sign substrate associated with a number of rubber nipple fasteners and a lens. The sign message and the lens further include mounting holes placed at their corners for securely holding the sign message in association with the sign substrate and lens. The rubber nipple fastener can be pulled through the mounting holes in the lens utilizing a relatively low insertion force. The rubber nipple fasteners can be driven axially into the mounting holes in the lens with a flexible tab engaging the lens and flexing as they move through the hole in the lens. The rubber nipple fastener can be specifically designed such that the force required to install or push the rubber nipple fastener through the mounting hole is relatively low thereby facilitating ergonomic considerations. The Snap N Place sign system is capable of holding signs of a variety of thicknesses and sizes.
US08561332B2 Multi-way signage
A sign system for displaying product information to consumers positioned proximate a product being vended. The sign system is characterized as having a planar support and a primary sign is releasably retained by the planar support having product information made visible to the consumers and further having a window configured therein. A secondary sign is releasably retained behind the primary sign such that at least a portion of the secondary sign is visible through the window, the secondary sign having a plurality of alternative pricing indicia strategically positioned thereon such that through repositioning the secondary sign behind the primary sign, alternative pricing indicia is displayed through said window. An organizer is also employed for storing secondary pricing signs for easy access.
US08561323B2 Footwear devices with an outer bladder and a foamed plastic internal structure separated by an internal flexibility sipe
A footwear or orthotic sole including an outer sole and a footwear or orthotic device that includes a bladder having an uppermost surface being curved concavely relative to an intended wearer's foot location and interconnected internal structure formed by a foamed plastic, a plastic composite and/or a blown rubber. The internal structures are substantially surrounded on at least the top, bottom and sides by the bladder. The bladder and internal structures are separated by an internal sipe. The internal sipe is formed by an inner surface of the bladder and an opposing surface of the internal structures; and the opposing surfaces forming the sipe can move relative to each other in a sliding motion. The bladder includes inside at least one media selected from a gas, a liquid, and a gel. The internal structures are proximate to both an upper inner surface and a lower inner surface of the bladder.
US08561316B2 Granulation device
A granulation device comprises a wet granulation unit (2), comprising a chamber (4), for mixing a powder product with appropriate binding agents, and a dry granulation unit (3), comprising a chamber (26), for mixing a product exiting from the wet granulation unit (2); the dry granulation unit (3) being operatively connected with the wet granulation unit (2).
US08561314B2 Installation for drying organic matter
An installation for drying organic matter, especially kitchen and food wastes or other biological matter, including matter that contains packaging residues, napkins, straws or the like. The installation comprises the following components: (a) a vacuum mixer (M) having a closable charging opening for introducing the organic matter and a closable discharge opening, disposed at the bottom or laterally towards the bottom, for the dried matter, (b) at least one vacuum pump (VP) for evacuating the air in the mixer to generate the vacuum, the pump being connected to at least one evacuation tube mounted above the maximum filling level in the housing of the mixer (M), (c) a heater (H) for heating the organic matter, (d) at least one condenser (K), connected to the air evacuation duct (AL) of the vacuum pump (VP) and having a cooling unit (KA) connected thereto to condense the evacuated air, and (e) a discharge duct (AW) for the condensate obtained from the evacuated air by cooling in the condenser (K).
US08561313B2 Apparatus for measuring film bubbles
An apparatus for measuring film bubbles (10), includes a guide track (22) that extends in a circumferential direction of the film bubble with a constant spacing relative to the latter, the guide track guiding a carriage (20) which carries a measuring head (12) facing the peripheral surface of the film bubble (10), the measuring head (12) is connected to a free end of a cantilever (18) via an articulated joint (16), the cantilever having another end pivotally connected to the carriage (20), and a compensating drive mechanism (30) for correcting a change in the orientation of the measuring head (12) resulting from a pivotal movement of the cantilever (18) is associated with the articulated joint (16).
US08561308B2 Automatic pin adjustment for archery sights
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure deal with an archery sight mounted or mountable on an archery bow. The sight incorporates an indicator or adjustment assembly to indicate or control the desired position of one or more additional sight pins based on sighted in positions of two base sight pins.
US08561300B2 Combination shaving and trimming device
A combination shaving and trimming device includes a handle having an upper end and lower end, a powered trimmer disposed adjacent the upper end, a wet-shaving razor attachment adapted for mounting over the trimmer onto the upper end of the handle. The combination shaving and trimming device includes alignment guides providing one way attachment of the wet-shaving razor attachment to the trimmer.
US08561299B2 Gas turbine rotor assembly methods
Method of assembling a rotor assembly of a gas turbine engine having a plurality of components. The method comprises in one aspect calculating the bending forces due to the mass distribution along the rotor. In another aspect, an optimization routine iterates different rotor arrangements, comparing the calculated bending moments to determine a set of component positions that minimizes the bending forces. In another aspect, mass corrections are optimized to balance the rotor assembly.
US08561298B2 Superalloy component welding at ambient temperature
A method for welding superalloy components at ambient temperature conditions while reducing the propensity of the superalloy material to crack as a result of the weld. A root pass region of the weld is formed using a filler material that exhibits ductility that is higher than that of the base superalloy material. The ductile material mitigates stress in the root region, thereby preventing the formation of cracks. A remaining portion of the weld is formed using a filler material that essentially matches the base superalloy material. The method may utilize a pre-weld heat treatment to grow a gamma prime precipitate phase in the superalloy material, a chill fixture to remove heat during welding, a relief cut to reduce stress in the root region, and a conventional post-weld heat treatment.
US08561293B2 Method for manufacturing wiring board
There is prepared an insulation layer generation member having a support film and a semi-cured insulation layer provided on a surface of the support film. Subsequently, the insulation layer generation member is affixed to a pad such that the pad contacts the semi-cured insulation layer. The semi-cured insulation layer is cured, to thus generate an insulation layer. Subsequently, the insulation layer is exposed to laser by way of the support film, thereby opening an opening in the insulation layer.
US08561290B2 Work line module and work facility
Work line module comprises a plurality of machines (103-106) having a plurality of working functions and non-work facility (107, 108) such as a conveying machine can cooperate so as to produce a necessary amount even if the necessary amount is varied. A plurality of work machines (103-106) for mechanically working a workpiece (124) and non-work facility (107, 108) for processing the workpiece (124). One work machine (106) is a multifunction furnishing machine having a function of measuring the workpiece (124) in addition to a function of mechanically working the workpiece (124). A conveying machine (109) having robots (185-187) for conveying the workpiece (124) between the work machines (103-106), and between the work machines (103-106) and the non-work facility (107, 108).
US08561286B2 Manufacturing method for a magnetic head supporting suspension
A manufacturing method for a magnetic head supporting suspension includes forming a load beam blank having a load beam with a dimple formed therein, and a frame portion with a positioning part formed therein; and forming a flexure blank having a flexure and a frame portion. A fitting portion in the flexure blank is fittable to the positioning part. An anti-rotation portion is formed on the load beam blank or a member attached to the load beam blank. A receiving portion in the flexure blank is fittable to the anti-rotation portion. The load beam blank and flexure blank are superposed with the positioning part fitted to the fitting portion. The anti-rotation portion is fitted to the receiving portion, and the flexure is fixed to the load beam. The load beam and flexure are thereafter separated from the frame portions.
US08561285B1 Methods and devices for picking and placing workpieces into small form factor hard disk drives
A method of picking and placing a workpiece relative to a disk drive may include steps of providing a robotically controlled tool, a servo motor assembly for moving the tool, at least one controller for controlling the tool and the servo motor assembly, and a machine vision assembly coupled to the controller and located relative to the tool so that a selected feature is within a field of view of the machine vision assembly while the tool is picking up the workpiece. The workpiece may be coupled to the tool, and the workpiece may be aligned with the selected feature of the disk drive using the machine vision assembly and the controller to control the servo motor assembly, such that the workpiece is aligned with the selected feature. The aligned workpiece may then be placed onto the selected feature of the disk drive.
US08561282B2 Method of coupling container body and cover member
A method of coupling a container body (2) and a cover member (3) in a capsular container (1) includes a filling step for filling liquid medicine, powdered medicine, or granular medicine in the container body (2), and a fitting step for fitting the container body (2) to the cover member (3) under an atmosphere at a negative pressure which is lower than atmospheric pressure. Consequently, the pressure inside the joined container (1) does not exceed atmospheric pressure, the filling (37) which fills the inside of the container (1) can be prevented from leaking out between the container body (2) and the cover (3), and it is also possible to prevent bending of the container (1) which starts from the weak portion of the container (1).
US08561278B2 Joint arthroplasty devices and surgical tools
Disclosed herein are methods, compositions and tools for repairing articular surfaces repair materials and for repairing an articular surface. The articular surface repairs are customizable or highly selectable by patient and geared toward providing optimal fit and function. The surgical tools are designed to be customizable or highly selectable by patient to increase the speed, accuracy and simplicity of performing total or partial arthroplasty.
US08561264B2 Female snap button
A female snap button detachably receives a projection of a male snap button in a projection-receiving space. The female snap button includes an annular protrusion rising from a base and defining the projection-receiving space. In the annular protrusion, there are formed thick-walled portions with the thickness from the inner surface of the protrusion to the radially outer side being relatively thick and thin-walled portions with the thickness being thinner than that in the thick-walled portions. The thick-walled portions and the thin-walled portions are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction.
US08561254B2 Systems and methods for transferring heat and/or sound during fluid extraction and/or cleaning processes
Systems and methods for transferring heat and/or sound during liquid extraction and/or cleaning processes are disclosed. A fluid extraction system in accordance with a particular embodiment includes a fluid extractor having an outlet positioned to deliver extracted waste fluid, and a fluid tank operatively coupled to the extractor. A blower, having an air intake and an air outlet through which blower air passes, is operatively coupled to the extractor outlet to draw the extracted waste fluid from the extractor. A muffler is positioned at least partially within the liquid tank and has a flow path along which the blower air passes. In particular embodiments, the muffler can also provide a heat exchanger function, for example, to heat cleaning fluid provided to the extractor.
US08561247B2 Oral care implement
An oral care implement and method for forming the same is provided. The oral care implement comprises a handle and a head having a base structure. A unitary assembly comprising a top portion of a first pod, a top portion of a second pod, a third pod comprising a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the third pod, and at least one suspension member is formed. The unitary assembly is subsequently attached to the base structure of the handle to form the first pod extending from a first face of the base structure and the second pod extending from the first face of the base structure. The third pod is disposed between and supported above the first face by the first and second pods by the at least one suspension member so that a gap exists between a bottom surface of the third pod and the first face of the base structure.
US08561241B2 Motorized rotating and/or oscillating applicator
An applicator for applying a product includes a motor and a switch for automatically rotating and/or oscillating an applicator head. By virtue of having a motor with a throttling gear, the applicator is capable of rotating and/or oscillating at controlled frequencies during application of cosmetic, medicinal, or other products to a surface.
US08561229B2 Baffle box comforter
The comforter includes two substantially identical fabric sections, with lines of attachment between them defining edges of a plurality of side-by-side parallel channels. Baffle members are positioned within each channel, attached to one edge of each channel, but not extending all the way to the opposing edge thereof, wherein the baffle members in any given channel are positioned in a staggered relationship relative to the position of baffle members in adjacent channels.
US08561225B2 Automatic dual flush activation
A multi flush volume flush valve is in communication with an automatic flush control. The flush control determines the presence of a user and the amount of time the user uses the toilet. The usage time is compared to a predetermined time value to determine the appropriate flush volume based on an assumption regarding usage time and flush volume needs. The comparative value statistically adjusts to the restroom traffic.
US08561220B2 Keeping sewer drainlines clear with low flush toilets or cisterns
A device (20) for improving drainline clearance for use with an ultra low flushing volume toilet (24). The device (20) includes a centrifuge separator means (30), for separating liquids (L) and solids (S), and a reservoir (42). The separator means (30) has a substantially horizontal inlet (32), adapted for connection to the outlet (26) of a toilet pan (24), an outlet (36) primarily for solids (S) and an outlet (38) primarily for liquids (L). The reservoir (42) is beneath the separator means (30) and has an inlet (38) in fluid communication with the liquids outlet (38) of the separator means (30). The reservoir (42) is adapted to syphonically empty substantially all of its contents into a sewerage drainline (22) after at least 2 flushes of the toilet (24). Further, the separator means (30) and the reservoir (42) have a combined vertical dimension less than the maximum height of the toilet pan outlet for installation adjacent the toilet (24) and substantially above the floor level (F) of the toilet (24).
US08561218B1 Toilet flange stabilizer
A toilet flange stabilizer comprising a flat ring with a center hole, wherein the flat ring is sized to fit over a lip of a flange; a plurality of holes disposed on the flat ring; a plurality of slots disposed on the flat ring; a plurality of arms attaching to an outer periphery of the flat ring and the arms radiating away from the flat ring, further a first segment of the arms extend downward from the flat ring and then a second segment of the arms bend upward wherein the second segments lie on a first plane that is parallel to a second plane of the flat ring; and an arm hole disposed on each second segment of each arm; wherein the toilet flange stabilizer rests over the lip of a flange.
US08566961B2 Approaches for a location aware client
Techniques for performing an action, based on the present location of a client, to protect resources of the client from theft or unauthorized access. A server may intermittently receive, from a client, location information such as GPS information, triangulation information based on one or more Wi-Fi access points, and IP trace information. The server may determine the client's location by (a) determining, for an interval of time, whether GPS information, triangulation information, and IP trace information are available for the client, and (b) based on the available GPS information, triangulation information, and IP trace information, determining the present location of the client, e.g., by determining a weighted arithmetic mean or by using a sequence of types of location information ordered based on accuracy. In response to following a security policy, the server may perform an action, specified by the security policy, based on the present location of the client.
US08566956B2 Monitoring and reporting of data access behavior of authorized database users
A computer-implemented system and method of monitoring data access activity of a user of a system is presented here. The method maintains a respective score for each of a plurality of monitored data access events, resulting in a set of scores for the user. The method continues by monitoring behavior of the user to detect occurrences of the monitored data access events, and updating the set of scores in response to detected occurrences of the monitored data access events. The method initiates an appropriate course of action when the updated set of scores is indicative of unauthorized, suspicious, or illegitimate data access activity.
US08566955B2 User indentification with capacitive touchscreen
Images are acquired from the touchscreen or touch panel and processed to determine first characteristics corresponding to fingers, hands or hand portions placed thereon. If the first characteristics match stored second characteristics with a sufficient degree of similarity, the user is identified as an authorized or verified user and then permitted to operate or use the electronic device.
US08566953B2 Named object view of electronic data report
A named object view of a report is generated from an electronic data file. Objects in the file to be published are identified in the file. A named object view of the report associated with the file is generated by displaying published identified objects according to associated viewing rights. A viewer at a client is presented with the named object view of the report, according to the viewing rights, such that the viewer's attention is focused on the published objects.
US08566951B2 Apparatus and methods for setting security to storage unit and computer
Methods and apparatus are provided for inhibiting data writing to an optical disc drive connected to a computer. A BIOS confirms presence of a security function of an optical disc drive. When the optical disc drive possesses the security function, the BIOS delivers a command to the optical disc drive to set it to a read-only mode. The optical disc drive that has received the command sets the drive per se to operate in the read-only mode. Since a command for setting it to the read-only mode and a command for releasing it are delivered to the optical disc drive only by the BIOS, when a control is transferred to an Operating System (OS), setting of the read-only mode cannot be released by the OS and other OS's, or application software.
US08566948B2 Method and system for controlling access to logical unit of a storage device shared by computers
An acquisition unit of a user terminal acquires an initiator ID including a user ID and a computer ID. The initiator ID is transmitted by a transmitter unit, and then, received by a transmitter/receiver unit of a storage device. A LUDB stores information determining a LU corresponding to each user ID of several users. A masking unit refers to the LUDB to determine the LU corresponding to the user ID. If the received initiator ID differs from an initiator ID stored in a table corresponding to the determined LU, an access control unit refuses access to the LU by the user terminal.
US08566935B2 Balancing malware rootkit detection with power consumption on mobile devices
The subject disclosure presents a novel technique for balancing the tradeoff between security monitoring and energy consumption on mobile devices. Security/energy tradeoffs for host-based detectors focusing on rootkits are analyzed along two axes: a scanning frequency, and a surface of attack. Experimental results are applied to a hypervisor-based framework, and a sweet spot is identified to minimize both energy consumption and a window of vulnerability for critical operating system objects such as code pages and kernel data.
US08566924B2 Method and system for controlling communication ports
A method for limiting devices and controlling the applications executed from USB ports on personal computers (PCs). More specifically, the present invention relates to a method for ensuring that only authorized devices and applications are accessed from USB ports using software and configuration files on the PC. Using the software application stored on the PC storage device in conjunction with functionality performed by a designed security file server, the use of USB applications and devices is limited to authorized applications and devices.
US08566922B2 System for isolating a secured data communication network
A system for isolating a data communication network has been developed. The system includes an internal computer system with an internal computer that is in data communication with the internal computer system, and an external computer system with an external computer that is in data communication with the external computer system. The internal and external computers are connected with an ethernet adapter that only allows transmission of data from the internal computer system and prohibits the receipt of data by the internal computer system.
US08566920B2 Application gateway system and method for maintaining security in a packet-switched information network
A method and apparatuses are disclosed for handling digital data packets at a logical borderline that separates an untrusted packet-switched information network from a protected domain. A packet processor part intercepts a packet that is in transit between the untrusted packet-switched information network and the protected domain. The packet is examined at the packet processor part in order to determine, whether the packet contains digital data that pertains to a certain protocol. If the packet is not found to contain such digital data, it is processed at the packet processor part. If the packet is found to contain digital data that pertains to said certain protocol, it gets redirected to an application gateway part that processes the packet according to a set of processing rules based on obedience to said certain protocol. The packet processor part is a kernel mode process running in a computer device and the application gateway part is a user mode process running in a computer device.
US08566915B2 Mixed-mode authentication
Techniques for mixed-mode authentication are described. In one or more embodiments, an authentication service may be implemented to selectively configure and issue authentication tokens based upon an optional secure mode that enables enhanced security. Clients may be provided with an option to choose between an insecure mode and a secure mode for authentications. Based on this choice, tokens may be configured to include an indication of whether the secure mode is disabled or enabled. When secure mode is disabled, an insecure token valid for both secure sites and other sites is issued to a client when the client is authenticated. When the optional secure mode is enabled, both secure and insecure tokens are provided to the client. The authentication services and/or other services may be configured to reject an insecure token when secure mode is enabled to prevent unauthorized use of a stolen token to access secure resources.
US08566909B2 Row-level security with expression data type
Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with row level security for a database table are described. One example method includes detecting an access statement seeking access to a row in a database table for which row level security is active. The method includes adding a predicate to the access statement. The predicate is based on an access control expression associated with the row. The access control expression depends on an instance of an expression data type associated with the row. The method includes populating an attribute of the predicate, and controlling access to the row based on a computed value for the predicate.
US08566904B2 Enterprise biometric authentication system for a windows biometric framework
An enterprise biometric authentication system for use with a network of client computing devices, each client computing device executing Windows® 7 operating system with Windows® Biometric Framework components including a client biometric service and a client engine adapter, comprises a client engine wrapper and a server subsystem further including a server database, a server storage adapter, a server engine adapter, and a server component. The client engine wrapper resides on a client computing device and is operable to intercept requests from the client biometric service to the client engine adapter and to transmit the requests. The server storage adapter may store and retrieve biometric templates from the server database. The server engine adapter may generate and compare biometric templates. The server component may receive the requests from the client engine wrapper, forward the requests to the server engine adapter, and transmit results of the requests to the client engine wrapper.
US08566902B2 Secure messaging center
A secure messaging system is disclosed wherein messages are transmitted to a user based on a feature unique to the user, such as an account number. The user authenticates himself, then messages associated with the user can be displayed.
US08566899B2 Techniques for securing a checked-out virtual machine in a virtual desktop infrastructure
Techniques for securing checked-out virtual machines in a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a method for securing a checked-out guest virtual machine including receiving a request for checking-out a guest virtual machine hosted by a server network element, wherein checking-out the guest virtual machine comprises transferring hosting of the guest virtual machine from the server network element to a client network element. The method for securing a checked-out guest virtual machines may also include configuring a security module for the guest virtual machine in order to secure the guest virtual machine and providing the security module to the guest virtual machine when the guest virtual machine is checked-out.
US08566895B2 System and method for incremental implementation of new service capabilities
A system for gradually implementing network services to end users includes substantially redundant first and second control networks, connectable to the end users through a routable communications network. The first control network provides a first service capability to all the end users. The second control network provides a second service capability to a first portion of the end users, the second service capability replacing the first service capability of the first portion of the end users. The second control network subsequently provides the second service capability to a second portion of the end users, while continuing to provide the second service capability to the first portion, the second service capability replacing the first service capability of the second portion of the end users. The second service capability provided to the second portion of the end users may include revisions based on feedback from the first portion of end users.
US08566891B2 Systems and methods for monitoring, troubleshooting and/or controlling a digital television
A system for monitoring, troubleshooting, controlling, calibrating and/or configuring a digital television is provided. The system includes a functionality module configured to perform one or more functions of a digital television. The system includes a testing module associated with the digital television, communicatively coupled to the functionality module and being configured to receive from the functionality module, data indicative of the one or more functions of the digital television. The testing module is configured to perform processing using the received data to determine whether to alter one or more parameters associated with the one or more functions of the digital television.
US08566886B2 Passive video caching for edge aggregation devices
Techniques for delivering video on demand channel content via streaming from a first edge aggregation device are provided. A processor is provided that is coupled to a memory. The processor can be operable to receive a request from a requesting device for video on demand channel content, search an index to locate the video on demand channel content, identify a location of the requesting device with respect to a first edge aggregation device and instruct the first edge aggregation device to forward the video on demand channel content to the location of the requesting device. Other embodiments are described.
US08566881B2 Live integration of push-to-talk (PTT) audio with independent video feed
The present invention discloses a mosaic video channel and a system for generating the mosaic video channel. A system in accordance with the present invention indicates an audio input for a mosaic video channel displayed on a monitor, with a plurality of individual video feeds being presented at a given time, and comprises a plurality of video cells presenting at least video information, each video cell having a respective audio portion associated with the video cell, an announcer audio portion, and an indicator, coupled to the respective audio portions, for indicating to an announcer that at least one of the respective audio portions is active.
US08566878B2 System for presenting media programming guides
A system for presenting media programming guides is disclosed. A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a media receiver having a controller element to generate a Media Program Guide (MPG) that groups media programs according to a redundancy of media programs and a viewing history of a subscriber of the media receiver. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08566877B2 Method and apparatus for content information related to a media program
In one embodiment, a system generates a customized interface based on displayed programming. The system stores a program that a user displayed through a media device; searches through a network for information related to the displayed program; and extracts data associated with the information related to the displayed program. A custom interface is generated based substantially on the data associated with the information related to the displayed program.
US08566867B1 Pre-fetch ads while serving ads in live stream
Described herein are techniques related to pre-fetching ads while serving ads in a live streaming video. In one implementation, the pre-fetching mechanism will set up a default set of ads pre-fetching criteria on a client and then the client will parse new/extra ads pre-fetching criteria from a live stream. Next the default set of ads pre-fetching criteria on the client will update via the parsed new/extra ads pre-fetching criteria. Now a notification from the live stream to pre-fetch ads is received by the client and the pre-fetched ads are obtained from the live stream. The client will receive a notification from the live stream to show ads and pre-fetched ads will be shown on the client. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US08566862B2 System and method for enhanced advertising in a video content network
A video content network having a plurality of program channels is operated, and a target time slot for an enhanced advertisement is identified. At least some of the plurality of program channels have programs scheduled during the target time slot. The target time slot is signaled to a plurality of terminals connected to the video content network. Each of the terminals is viewing a given one of the program channels prior to the signaling. Responsive to the signaling, the programs scheduled during the target time slot are effectively paused at a program time corresponding to a beginning of the time slot, and the enhanced advertisement is caused to be displayed on the terminals. Responsive to an end of the enhanced advertisement, the programs scheduled during the target time slot are resumed at the program time corresponding to the beginning of the time slot. Thus, substantially all viewers of the video content network during the target time slot are exposed to the enhanced advertisement regardless of which of the plurality of program channels the viewers were watching during the target time slot.
US08566855B2 Audiovisual user interface based on learned user preferences
A method and apparatus for providing an audiovisual user interface based on learned user preferences is described. In one implementation, the method involves collecting a set of user preferences for a user; providing a metadata stream associated with an audiovisual input; comparing elements within the metadata stream with the set of user preferences to form a comparison; and outputting a message to the user if the comparison indicates that the metadata stream matches one or more elements of the set of user preferences. The message may be output either acoustically or visually, and may relate to the audiovisual input, which may be audio, video, or both audio and video. The audiovisual input may be blocked based on a restricted message, and may be accessed upon a successful password query.
US08566849B2 Name service object clustering
A naming service clustering method which permits naming service load balancing over a set of object references contained within the same cluster such that loads are equitably distributed among servers. Each cluster contains its own unique object binding table which contains object references which each typically represent a single server. Load balancing is performed using a load balance algorithm (e.g., Round Robin). The specific algorithm which is used to perform load balancing is specified upon creation of each naming service cluster. The method provides transparent load balancing among multiple object references in the same cluster. In addition, transparent “failover” among object references in the same cluster is achieved. The method also provides a dynamic addition of new object references into a cluster via binding, along with the dynamic removal of old object references from a cluster via unbinding.
US08566848B2 Application programming interface for providing native and non-native display utility
Methods for controlling complementary dual displays for use with an electronic device are presented including: receiving an input for display on a non-native display, where the input includes a native user interface (UI) input and a non-native UI input, and where the non-native display is a bistable, low frame rate display; if the input is the native UI input, sending the first native UI input to a corresponding application, processing the native UI input by the corresponding application, calling a non-native API for forwarding the processed native UI input to a non-native display driver, and sending a non-native display signal to the non-native display; receiving another native UI input for display on a native display, where the native display is a refresh-based, high frame rate display; and sending the other native UI input to the corresponding application.
US08566846B2 System and method for configuring drivers
Driver systems and methods are provided, such as those that include identifying a process corner of a driver; and configuring the driver based on the identified process corner. Further embodiments provide a method that includes detecting a process corner of a driver, setting a reference voltage of a calibration circuit based on the process corner detected, and configuring the driver based on the reference voltage.
US08566845B2 System and method for optimizing multi-pathing support in a distributed storage system environment
A Multi-Pathing Optimization Module (MPOM) interfaces with a client to route a data access request along a most optimal path to a storage system serving data container stored on a striped volume set (SVS). The MPOM constructs and references a Location Data Structure (LDS) containing striping rules associated with the SVS, a list of network elements (N-blades) operatively connected to the client, and a list of disk elements (D-blades) sharing a node of the storage system with the listed N-blades. The MPOM executes a Client_Locate( ) function on a per data access request basis to identify the D-blade serving the volume which will receive the request. When possible, the MPOM routes the data access request directly to the N-blade sharing a node with the identified D-blade, thereby using the most optimal path from the client to the SVS.
US08566837B2 Dynamic run time allocation of distributed jobs with application specific metrics
A job optimizer dynamically changes the allocation of processing units on a multi-nodal computer system. A distributed application is organized as a set of connected processing units. The arrangement of the processing units is dynamically changed at run time to optimize system resources and interprocess communication. A collector collects application specific metrics determined by application plug-ins. A job optimizer analyzes the collected metrics and determines how to dynamically arrange the processing units within the jobs. The job optimizer may determine to combine multiple processing units into a job on a single node when there is an overutilization of an interprocess communication between processing units. Alternatively, the job optimizer may determine to split a job's processing units into multiple jobs on different nodes where one or more of the processing units are over utilizing the resources on the node.
US08566831B2 Execution of work units in a heterogeneous computing environment
Work units are transparently offloaded from a main processor to offload processing systems for execution. For a particular work unit, a suitable offload processing system is selected to execute the work unit. This includes determining the requirements of the work unit, including, for instance, the hardware and software requirements; matching those requirements against a set of offload processing systems with an arbitrary set of available resources; and determining if a suitable offload processing system is available. If a suitable offload processing system is available, the work unit is scheduled to execute on that offload processing system with no changes to the work unit itself. Otherwise, the work unit may execute on the main processor or wait to be executed on an offload processing system.
US08566830B2 Local collections of tasks in a scheduler
A scheduler in a process of a computer system includes a local collection of tasks for each processing resource allocated to the scheduler and at least one general collection of tasks. The scheduler assigns each task that becomes unblocked to the local collection corresponding to the processing resource that caused the task to become unblocked. When a processing resource becomes available, the processing resource attempts to execute the most recently added task in the corresponding local collection. If there are no tasks in the corresponding local collection, the available processing resource attempts to execute a task from the general collection.
US08566819B2 Apparatus and method for providing software configurations on a plurality of platforms
A virtual installation map, and method involving installing a software functionality using the same, the virtual installation map including a first software installation map including a plurality of software elements representative of a related software file, the software elements also including at least one dependency to another software element. The virtual installation map further including a second software installation map also including a second plurality of software elements representative of related software file along with related dependencies. The first and second software installation maps may be hosted in separate databases and may relate to software products provided by different vendors. One or both software installation maps may include a pointer or other reference to the other installation map thereby providing a virtual installation map, in one example.
US08566810B2 Using database knowledge to optimize a computer program
A code optimizer is used to optimize a computer program that references a database by reading database metadata and making suitable optimizations based on the metadata. By taking into account the metadata of a database referenced in the computer program, the optimizer may make suitable optimizations to the computer program. Such optimizations include, without limitation, removing unnecessary calls to the database, removing unnecessary loops, removing unnecessary database operations, providing compile-time errors, and replacing dynamic calls with static data.
US08566797B2 Heuristic backtracer
A heuristic backtracer is described. In one embodiment, a scanner scans a stack of an application for a pointer to a word of a machine code of the application. A preceding byte locator identifies one or more bytes immediately preceding the pointed-to machine code. A parser parses the one or more bytes immediately preceding the pointed-to machine code of the machine code for a call instruction. A return address identifier determines the pointed-to as a return address when the one or more bytes constitute the call instruction.
US08566793B2 Detecting and displaying errors in database statements within integrated development environment tool
Embodiments of the invention provide database integration within an integrated development environment (IDE) tool for displaying database structure and other database information, query editing and execution, and error detection for database statements embedded in program source code. Embodiments of the invention integrate database connectivity and error detection into the IDE tool, thereby potentially reducing the time required for database-aware application development.
US08566791B2 Retrofitting authentication onto firmware
The present invention provides an inexpensive, software-based security-retrofit solution to verify the integrity of program code in embedded systems, or accessories, without resorting to expensive hardware changes. All unused memory on an accessory that could be used to store a program code image is filled with random data. A host system also locally stores a copy of the accessory's program image containing the random data. The host system sends the accessory a list of memory addresses or memory ranges on the accessory, which is always different and random in nature. The accessory will then produce a digest using values stored in the memory addresses as inputs to a secure hash function. The host system verifies the integrity of the embedded program code by verifying the resulting digest produced by and returned from the accessory.
US08566786B2 Portlet template based on a state design pattern
A method for designing object-oriented software for implementing portlets, and an associated computer system and computer program product. The portlets are available to a user of the software who clicks on a link of a first page to identify an action object of an Action class and a state object of a State class. The software includes the State class, the Action class, and program code. The State class includes a method for displaying a view of a page. The Action class includes an actionPerformed method for performing an action and a setState method for setting the state object into the session. The program code is adapted to execute: the actionPerformed method of the action object to perform the action; the setState method of the action object to set the state object; and the method of the state object to display a view of a second page.
US08566773B2 Thermal relief automation
An approach is provided in which a dynamic thermal relief generator retrieves a circuit board file that identifies power plane thru pin locations and a power plane layer. The dynamic thermal relief generator selects one of the power plane thru pin locations and identifies one or more electrical properties corresponding to a component assigned to the selected power plane thru pin location. As such, the dynamic thermal relief generator computes a conductive material exclusion amount based upon the identified electrical properties, which indicates an amount of area to exclude conductive material on the selected power plane layer. In turn, the dynamic thermal relief generator creates a thermal relief pattern based upon the computed conductive material exclusion amount that identifies conductive material voids on the selected power plane layer to exclude the substantially conductive material.
US08566772B2 Method, computer program and computing system for optimizing an architectural model of a microprocessor
A computer program for optimizing an architectural model of a microprocessor by configuring elements of the instruction set as nodes of the graph. The architectural model of a microprocessor represents an instruction set of the microprocessor. Determination is made whether nodes with identical bit position and value encoding are in the graph. If nodes with the identical bit position and value encoding are present, a path from a source node to a target node is separated into a common node for each node in the graph. The common node is reused to optimize common paths from the graph and the source node is directly connected to the common node in the graph using a forward edge. A back-edge is added from the common node to the source node through the target node and the above steps are recursively repeated until all nodes of the graph are processed.
US08566768B1 Best clock frequency search for FPGA-based design
Searching for desired clock frequency for integrated circuit-based design may receive timing result of a hardware synthesis job executed based on a code specifying hardware design. One or more different timing constraints specifying respective one or more different clock frequencies than used in the hardware synthesis job may be automatically generated without modifying the code. One or more instances of the hardware synthesis job to run with the respective one or more different timing constraints may be automatically spawned. The automatic generation and spawning may repeat until a termination criterion is met, and/or a desired successful timing constraint is identified for the hardware design from the different timing constraints based on whether the one or more instances of the hardware synthesis job met their respective timing constraints.
US08566758B2 Data dependency managing apparatus, design data dependency managing method and program
A design data dependency managing apparatus comprises an input/output data storing unit for storing design input/output dependency information indicating a dependency between design input/output data, which becomes an input/output of a design, and other design input/output data in association with the design input/output data, and a design execution environment constructing unit for generating design data dependency information indicating a version number, on which a dependency is made, of the design input/output data required for the design by using the design input/output dependency information, and for constructing a design execution environment.
US08566749B2 Analysis of complex data objects and multiple parameter systems
A computer facilitates multiple parameters data analysis by special visualization and navigation methods. Data to be analyzed is loaded from an external source the computer displays the data in response to user input using a variety of methods including data tables, slices of data spaces, hierarchically navigated data spaces, dynamic slice tables, filters, sorting, color-mapping, numerical operations, and other methods. Data and inputs are shared among multiple users for collaborative analysis.
US08566744B2 Same-display comparison of content for different renditions of a single computer program
An method for use in a computer system for determining correspondence between at least two renditions of a single computer program includes enabling the identification of a selected screenshot related to navigation within the computer program and, as a response to the identification, accessing a reference screenshot captured during navigation within a first rendition and a corresponding screenshot captured during navigation within a second rendition. The reference screenshot and the corresponding screenshot are presented on a display, thereby enabling a same-display comparison of content of the reference and corresponding screenshots.
US08566735B2 Hardness tester with a user interface for setting test locations
A hardness tester includes a monitor capable of displaying a main screen and assistant screen. A first test location setter sets a coordinate point of an indentation formation location, and stores a setting condition of the set coordinate point and the surface image of a first test specimen. A second test location setter displays the surface image of the first test specimen in the assistant screen when a surface image of a second test specimen is displayed on the main screen, and, when a reference coordinate is set on the surface image of the second test specimen, determines a coordinate point of an indentation formation location based on the set reference coordinate and the setting condition of the coordinate point stored by the first test location setter.
US08566733B2 Apparatus and method for content management of a portable device
A content-management apparatus of a portable device. The apparatus includes a display unit to display content by time and function in a content area having a time axis and a function axis, and a content generation unit to combine at least two sets of content.
US08566727B2 Method and system for automating a user interface
Certain embodiments relate to providing automated, custom displays of images and tools for manipulating the images. Certain embodiments include a method for providing an automated user interface for healthcare workers. Certain embodiments of the method employ a network to execute the steps of retrieving an image from an image archive, processing the image to generate image-specific information, identifying data related to the image, mining the data related to the image, and displaying the image along with a custom selection of user interface tools.
US08566723B2 Menu bar providing method and information browsing screen configuration file creation program
It is an object of the present invention to enable displaying of a desired Web page and also displaying of a Web page including a menu bar without first displaying a predetermined Web page which a user does not want on a second display area of the Web browser, and also to execute a content based on the content execution request accepted from a content execution input unit of the menu bar. In order to solve this object, processing means extract a portion from which a self-domain 211 is removed from the Web page identifier received from an external terminal device as a second Web page identifier. Next, the processing means newly create an information browsing screen configuration file, store information browsing screen configuration information 212 in the information browsing screen configuration file, also store a first Web page identifier 213 and a first display area identifier 214 in a correlated manner, and also store the extracted second Web page identifier and a second display area identifier 215 in a correlated manner.
US08566719B2 Apparatus and method for controlling a sound reproduction apparatus
There is provided a control apparatus and method for controlling a sound reproduction apparatus. The control apparatus and method enables control of at least one parameter of audio reproduction depending on contact with a touch sensitive panel. The parameters which may be controlled include, for example, volume, bass, treble, equalizer settings and the like. The functions of the sound reproduction apparatus which may be controlled include, for example, radio channel selection, track selection, album selection and the like.
US08566717B2 Rendering teaching animations on a user-interface display
Computer-readable media, computerized methods, and computer systems for intuitively surfacing a teaching animation that demonstrates a manual gesture recognized by a writing-pad tool are provided. Initially, the writing-pad tool is interrogated to determine a context of a computing environment associated with a touchscreen interface. Generally, determining includes recognizing a current condition of the writing-pad tool based on whether text is provided within a content-entry area generated thereby, ascertaining whether a focus of a cursor tool resides within the content-entry area based on whether a portion of the text is selected, and ascertaining which actions are available for invocation at the writing-pad tool based on the current condition and the focus of the cursor. The context of the computing environment is utilized to identify which teaching animations to promote to an active state. Typically the promoted teaching animations are associated with the actions ascertained as available for invocation.
US08566710B2 Analyzing web site for translation
A system, method and computer readable medium for synchronizing web content is disclosed. The method includes retrieving a first web content in a first language from a web site, the first web content corresponding to a second web content wherein the second web content is a translation in a second language of the first web content. The method further includes dividing the first web content into a plurality of translatable components and generating a unique identifier for each of the plurality of translatable components. The method further includes matching each of the plurality of translatable components to a plurality of translated components of the second web content using the unique identifier of each of the plurality of translatable components. If a translatable component is not matched to a translated component, the method further includes designating the translatable component for translation into the second language.
US08566706B2 User-friendly display of data
A display apparatus for displaying accumulated data items includes obtaining means for obtaining a plurality of data items accumulated, classifying means for classifying the plurality of data items into N groups on the basis of predetermined criteria, display-control means for controlling an indication on a display unit such that the plurality of data are displayed in N display regions corresponding to the N groups, and accepting means for accepting a specification of one display region from among the N display regions. When the accepting means accepts a specification of one display region from among the N display regions, the classifying means classifies a plurality of data items displayed in the specified display region into a further N groups, and the display-control means controls an indication on the display unit such that the plurality of data items are displayed in the N display regions corresponding to the N groups.
US08566703B2 Page description data processing apparatus, page description data processing method, and recording medium
It is confirmed whether or not page description data contain an object for stroking a path. If the page description data contain the object for stroking a path, then it is confirmed whether or not a curved path construction operator is contained in the object. If the curved path construction operator is contained in the object, line segments of a polygonal path which is approximated to a curved path of the curved path construction operator are determined, and the curved path construction operator is replaced with a plurality of straight path construction operators which correspond respectively to the line segments of the polygonal path.
US08566702B2 Methods and systems of outputting content of interest
A method can output content of interest of a structured electronic document from a computer or distributed computer system having a processor and memory. The method includes loading a common expression and a data structure definition into memory, the common expression identifying a content element in a first structured electronic document, the data structure definition defined according to the common expression; creating in memory an instance of a data structure defined by the data structure definition; applying with the processor the common expression to a second structured electronic document to extract a content element from the second structured electronic document; storing the extracted content element in the instance of the data structure; and populating a template structured electronic document using the instance of the data structure to produce an output structured electronic document.
US08566695B2 Controlling access to digital content
Method for utilizing digital content is provided. The method includes controlling a throughput rate for utilizing the digital content by an accessing system, wherein the throughput rate is associated with information related to the digital content stored as a file.
US08566694B2 Multi-dimensional documents for parallel content display on a single screen for multiple viewers
A system, method, and storage medium for generating visual content in plural versions for substantially simultaneous display on the same display device are provided. The system includes memory for storing static content having at least one document element common to a first and second version of a document, multi-dimensional content having at least one customized document element for each document version to be inserted into a variable area within the first and second versions of the document, and multi-dimensional parameters defining static areas, variable areas, and customized document elements for each document version. The system further includes a rendering module adapted to generate a first frame-image corresponding to the first document version and a second frame-image corresponding to the second document version by arranging the static content and multi-dimensional content of each document version according to the multi-dimensional parameters.
US08566691B2 Analyzer
An analyzer may include a body housing having a first ID, a first measurement module having a second ID that is different from the first ID, the first measurement module being releasably attachable to the body housing, a first memory in the body housing, the first memory being configured to store the first ID, first setting data and first correction data, a second memory in the first measurement module, the second memory being configured to store the second ID, second setting data and second correction data, a first CPU in the body housing, the first CPU being configured to detect the first measurement module having the second ID, and a first data transmission unit in the body housing, the first data transmission unit being configured to transmit the first setting data and the first correction data to the second memory.
US08566689B2 Data integrity units in nonvolatile memory
An integrity unit can be calculated from a first data unit, and a first storage device can be requested to store the first data unit. A second storage device, which can be separate from and/or a different type of device from the first storage device, can be requested to store metadata, which includes the integrity unit, in nonvolatile memory. Also, a second data unit can be received from the first storage device in response to a request for the first data unit. The integrity unit can be received from the second storage device, and the second data unit and the integrity unit can be analyzed to determine whether the second data unit matches the first data unit. Alternatively, a first integrity unit can be stored in a metadata region of a nonvolatile memory block, where the block also stores the data from which the first integrity unit was calculated.
US08566688B2 Method of certifying multiple versions of an application
A first check code is computed by applying an algorithm to a proper subset of a first body of data. A second check code is computed by applying the algorithm to an equivalent proper subset of a second equivalent body of data. The two check codes are compared. The extent of the proper subset of the first body of data is determined by a semantic analysis of the first body of data. Multiple versions of an application, when the semantic changes between the applications are inconsequential, may then be certified by ignoring the non-significant modifications and ensuring the integrity of the remainder of the content.
US08566686B2 System and method for optimizing read-modify-write operations in a RAID 6 volume
A method is disclosed for updating parity information in a RAID 6 system wherein only one parity block is read during each write operation. Both parity blocks may be updated from the new data, the data being overwritten and either of the old blocks of parity information. A method for load balancing in a RAID 6 system using this method is also disclosed.
US08566681B1 Distributed data distribution
Data may be distributed using data carousels. After a device receives the data, or a portion thereof, the device may make available a data carousel that allows others to receive the data. Each data carousel may contain a portion of the data. Data carousels may also contain error correction information that can be used to reconstruct missing portions of the data being distributed. A carousel directory may keep track of the carousel structure and direct the behavior of devices that are receiving data and/or distributing data.
US08566671B1 Configurable accelerated post-write read to manage errors
Data errors in non-volatile memory inevitably increase with usage and with higher density of bits stored per cell. The memory is configured to have a first portion operating with less error but of lower density storage, and a second portion operating with a higher density but less robust storage. An error management provides reading and checking the copy after copying to the second portion. If the copy has excessive error bits, it is repeated in a different location either in the second or first portion. The reading and checking of the copy is accelerated by reading only a sample of it. The sample is selected from a subset of the copy having its own ECC, where the sample selected depends on the count of erase-program cycles that a block has experienced, where different count ranges can use different samples.
US08566666B2 Min-sum based non-binary LDPC decoder
Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for min-sum based decoding of non-binary LDPC codes. For example, a non-binary low density parity check data decoding system is discussed that includes a variable node processor and a check node processor. The variable node processor is operable to generate variable node to check node message vectors and to calculate perceived values based on check node to variable node message vectors. The check node processor is operable to generate the check node to variable node message vectors and to calculate checksums based on variable node to check node message vectors. The check node processor includes a minimum and subminimum finder circuit operable to process a plurality of sub-messages in each variable node to check node message vector. The check node processor also includes a select and combine circuit operable to combine an output of the minimum and subminimum finder circuit to generate the check node to variable node message vectors.
US08566663B2 Method for transmitting and receiving signalling information
A method for protecting signalling information in a frame to be transmitted to a receiver in a communication system, comprising: encoding frame signalling information of the frame to protect the frame signalling information; and encoding Forward Error Correaction FEC block signalling information of FEC blocks in the frame by using Reed-Muller codes to protect the FEC block signaling information.
US08566662B2 Transmission apparatus, receiving apparatus, and method
An error pattern analysis unit specifies positions of discarded packets in continuously transmitted groups of packets. A QoS control unit estimates the cause of a communication error based on the specified positions of discarded packets, and performs QoS control based on the estimated cause of the communication error.
US08566661B2 Radio base station for performing radio communication with mobile station
An generation section which generates information indicative of a result of error detection on a downlink signal received, and a sending section which sends the information via a physical uplink control channel, and sends uplink data via a physical uplink shared channel at a different transmission frequency from the physical uplink control channel and in a same transmission time period as the physical uplink control channel, whereby the generation section and the sending section operate when receiving downlink scheduling information and uplink allocation grant in a same subframe. A receiving section which receives the information via the physical uplink control channel, and an uplink data receiving section which receives the uplink data via the physical uplink shared channel, wherein the receiving section and the uplink data receiving section operate after a predetermined time when sending the downlink scheduling information and the uplink allocation grant in the same subframe.
US08566660B2 Built-in-self-test using embedded memory and processor in an application specific integrated circuit
A test method for an ASIC uses an embedded processor in the ASIC to execute test routines from an embedded memory or an external memory. During ASIC production, the test routines can comprehensively test of the blocks of the ASIC without a complicated test pattern from test equipment. The test routines can also perform power-up tests in systems or end products containing the ASIC. Test selection, activation, and result output can be implement using a few terminals of the ASIC.
US08566654B2 Debugging site errors by an admin as a guest user in a multi-tenant database environment
An approach for debugging site errors in a multi-tenant database system is disclosed. An example method can include receiving a request from a site administrator to access an enhanced error message and determining if the site administrator is approved for viewing the enhanced error message by evaluating exceptions associated with the enhanced error message, the request, and the site administrator. The example method further includes modifying a detailed error message related to the request for generating the enhanced error message, and providing the enhanced error message to the site administrator based on the approval determination.
US08566650B2 Virtual machine infrastructure with storage domain monitoring
A computing device monitors multiple hosts. A first host that does not have access to a data store is identified. A determination is made as to whether other hosts have access to the data store. When the other hosts do have access to the data store, it is determined that the first host is malfunctioning. A host error notification may then be sent to an administrator.
US08566649B1 Fast port failover in a network switch
A network including a plurality of ports configured to exchange frames of data and a forwarding engine. The forwarding engine is configured to transfer the frames of data among the ports. Each frame of data includes an identifier that identifies a destination to which the frame is to be transferred by the forwarding engine. A first port of the plurality of ports includes a register configured to store an identifier of a backup port to be used in response to a failure of the first port, the backup port being among the plurality of port, and a redirect port. The redirect circuit is configured to, in response to the failure of the first port, replace the identifier in each frame of data identifying the first port as the destination port with the identifier of the backup port. Each frame having a replaced identifier is subsequently forwarded to the backup port.
US08566644B1 System and method for debugging a target computer using SMBus
Methods and systems for debugging a software program, such as BIOS is provided. The methods and systems make use of a debugger application executing on a host computer and configured to communicate with a debugger module executing on a target computer via serial/parallel/USB port of host computer, an adapter and the SMBus of the target computer.
US08566639B2 Flash backed DRAM module with state of health and/or status information accessible through a configuration data bus
A memory device includes: volatile memory; an interface for connecting to a backup power source; non-volatile memory; a first configuration data bus for accessing parameters describing substantially permanent characteristics of the volatile memory; a second configuration data bus for accessing at least one of state of health information of the backup power source and status information of the memory device, wherein the first configuration data bus and the second configuration data bus implement a same bus protocol; a controller programmed to detect a loss of power of a primary power source and move data from the volatile memory to the non-volatile memory, wherein configuration information of the controller is at least one of readable and writable through the first configuration data bus; and wherein at least one of the state-of-health information and the status information is at least one of readable and writable through the second configuration data bus.
US08566634B2 Method and system for masking defects within a network
A method and system for masking defects within a network are disclosed. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a method for masking defects within a network comprises detecting by a service entity defects within a network. The method further comprises determining a number of detected defects associated with a network component included in the network. The method further comprises generating by the network component a summary alarm if the number of detected defects within the network is greater than a first threshold.
US08566630B2 Apparatus, methods and computer program products supporting automatic network identification for power supplies
An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) apparatus can include an uninterruptible power supply circuit configured to provide electrical power to a load corresponding to a loss of line power, a network communications interface circuit associated with the uninterruptible power supply circuit, configured to be coupled to a network and a self-identification circuit that determines network identifier availability responsive to communications on the network and assigns a determined available network identifier responsive to an identification enable signal. Methods of self-identification of a device in a network, include determining an identifier via a self-identification process responsive to a relative position in the network.
US08566625B2 System and method for determining transmitting frequency to maintain remote application server connectivity
A system and method for maintaining connectivity between a host system running an Always-On-Always-Connected (AOAC) application and an associated remote application server includes determining a timing interval Ti for sending keep-alive messages. The timing interval Ti may be determined by selecting a value for a timeout (Ti) to a value between a maximum timeout (Tmax) and a minimum timeout (Tmin), transmitting a keep-alive message, at an interval based on Ti, across a network connection between a client platform running an Always-On-Always-Connected (AOAC) application and a remote application server associated with the AOAC application, checking a status of the network connection, increasing the value for Tmin if the network connection is still active and decreasing the value for Tmax if the network connection has been dropped.
US08566618B2 Reliable setting of voltage and frequency in a microprocessor
Managing operations associated with one or more voltage changes and one or more frequency changes. A voltage change request and a frequency change request are associated with dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) operations. The DVFS operations are transmitted by the processors to be executed by one or more direct current assemblies. A sequence associated with the one or more voltage changes and a sequence associated with the one or more frequency changes are detected by the system. The sequences are dynamically modified to enable insertion of an additional voltage change, whereby the additional voltage change indicates completion of one or more previous voltage change requests. Completion of the voltage change request enables one or more subsequent voltage change requests to be processed. When a voltage change request is not successfully completed one or more future voltage changes are suspended.
US08566614B2 Method for outputting image data, image processing apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium for computer program
A method for outputting image data generated by an image processing apparatus to a portable storage medium connected to an interface is provided. The method includes the following steps of: issuing an identifier of the image data; writing the identifier into the storage medium without waiting for the image data to be generated completely; after generating the image data, associating the image data with the identifier and storing the image data in a storage portion; reading out the identifier from the storage medium when the storage medium is connected to the interface again; and writing, into the storage medium, the image data stored in the storage portion in association with the identifier thus read out.
US08566611B2 Electronic device, unlocking method, and program
There is provided an electronic device capable of automatically unlocking a lock of an external storage device using a password without adding a function to the external storage device. An electronic device 100 includes a memory card connection unit 108 connecting a memory card 200 capable of being locked using the password, a password retention unit 101 retaining the password of the memory card 200, a lock state determination unit 106 determining whether or not the memory card 200 connected to the memory card connection unit 108 is in a locked state, and a setting cancellation unit 105 transmitting an unlocking signal for unlocking the locked state of the memory card 200 on the basis of the password when it is determined that the memory card 200 is in the locked state.
US08566607B2 Cryptography methods and apparatus used with a processor
In a first aspect, a first cryptography method is provided. The first method includes the steps of (1) in response to receiving a request to perform a first operation on data in a first memory cacheline, accessing data associated with the first memory cacheline; (2) performing cryptography on data of the first memory cacheline when necessary; and (3) speculatively accessing data associated with a second memory cacheline based on the first memory cacheline before receiving a request to perform an operation on data in the second memory cacheline. Numerous other aspects are provided.
US08566604B2 Password protection
An authentication system, including a pattern module to provide a pattern, a function module to provide a one-way function having a plurality of input and output values, a function processor to find one of the input values for the one-way function such that a corresponding one of the output values has the pattern, a password module to provide the one input value as a password for use in password authentication against the one output value, the one output value being a check value having a length, a compression module to determine a storage value such that: the check value can be reconstructed from the storage value and the pattern, and the storage value has a length which is shorter than the length of the check value, and a storage module to store the storage value in a storage medium for later retrieval. Related apparatus and methods are also included.
US08566603B2 Managing security operating modes
A storage device that supports Trusted Computer Group (TCG) security allows management of TCG security features by a Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) using non-TCG security commands supported by the BIOS. In one implementation, a BIOS that does not support TCG security but does support ATA security can use ATA drive unlock to invoke TCG drive unlock on the storage device. Further, the storage device can be transitioned among multiple security operating modes (e.g., Undeclared, ATA security or TCG security).
US08566602B2 Device, system and method for recording personal encounter history
Provided are exemplary embodiments including a method for creating and using a personal encounter history using a communication device. The method involves the communication device receiving the transmission of a pseudo identifier from a proximal communication device where the pseudo identifier is associated with the user of the proximal communication device. Once received, the method continues with the wireless communication device requesting and receiving the actual identification of the user of the proximal communication device that is correlated with the pseudo identifier. The communication device includes a transceiver capable of communicating wirelessly with a mobile telecommunications network, a memory device and a processor. To ensure privacy, the processor is capable of receiving a pseudo identifier from a proximate communication device and then requesting an actual identification correlated with the pseudo identifier of the proximate communication device.
US08566597B2 Digital signature program, digital signature apparatus, and digital signature method
When input data (f0) is read into a digital signature generating apparatus, a hash value (h0) is calculated. The hash value (h0) is stored to a storage area (M1), which has the highest priority rank among 5 storage areas. Subsequently, when input data (f1) is read in, a hash value (h1) is calculated. Since the storage area (M1) is already occupied by the hash value (h0), the hash value (h0) is read out from storage area (M1), emptying the storage area (M1). The read hash value (h0) and the hash value (h1) are concatenated, forming a concatenated hash value (h0|h1) and a hash value (h0,1) is calculated. The hash value (h0,1) is stored to a storage area (M2), which has the highest priority rank after the storage area (M1). When input data (f2) is read in, a hash value (h2) is calculated and stored to the storage area (M1).
US08566595B1 Managing secure communications with software environments
A method and system for use in managing secure communications with software environments is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the method and system comprises maintaining, in a Java operating environment, a regulatory compliant communications facility that is accessible to a Flex operating environment. The Flex and Java operating environments are caused to use the regulatory compliant communications facility for network communications with a data storage system.
US08566593B2 Method and apparatus of deriving security key(s)
A method, apparatus and a wireless communication system to derive security key(s) over an air link in a secure manner by sending by a mobile station over the air a single direction permutation of a mobile station ID, establishing keys with the base station and sending the mobile station real ID in a secure manner.
US08566590B2 Encryption information transmitting terminal
The communication unit transmits and receives a communication message. The authentication processor performs an authentication process for establishing the network connection by transmitting and receiving an authentication message to and from an authentication server through the communication unit. The encryption information generator generates an encryption key shared with the authentication server when the authentication process is successfully completed. The first message generator generates a first communication message instructing the destination device to acquire the encryption key from the authentication server. The second message generator generates a second communication message including data to be transmitted to the destination device. The communication unit transmits the first communication message to the destination device, encrypts the second communication message with the encryption key, and transmits an encrypted second communication message to the destination device.
US08566570B2 Distributed multi-core memory initialization
In a system having a plurality of processing nodes, a control node divides a task into a plurality of sub-tasks, and assigns the sub-tasks to one or more additional processing nodes which execute the assigned sub-tasks and return the results to the control node, thereby enabling a plurality of processing nodes to efficiently and quickly perform memory initialization and test of all assigned sub-tasks.
US08566568B2 Method and apparatus for executing processor instructions based on a dynamically alterable delay
Instruction execution delay is alterable after the system design has been finalized, thus enabling the system to dynamically account for various conditions that impact instruction execution. In some embodiments, the dynamic delay is determined by an application to be executed by the processing system. In other embodiments, the dynamic delay is determined by analyzing the history of previously executed instructions. In yet other embodiments, the dynamic delay is determined by assessing the processing resources available to a given application. Regardless, the delay may be dynamically altered on a per-instruction, multiple instruction, or application basis. Processor instruction execution may be controlled by determining a first delay value for a first set of one or more instructions and a second delay value for a second set of one or more instructions. Execution of the sets of instructions is delayed based on the corresponding delay value.
US08566567B2 System to profile and optimize user software in a managed run-time environment
Method, apparatus, and system for monitoring performance within a processing resource, which may be used to modify user-level software. Some embodiments of the invention pertain to an architecture to allow a user to improve software running on a processing resources on a per-thread basis in real-time and without incurring significant processing overhead.
US08566557B2 Method and system for storage of data
A method and a system are disclosed for storing initial data from an image detecting device in a camera system initial storage medium and making the data accessible. The initial data is stored consecutively in blocks, where file specific pointers representing the starting address for each stored file and file sequence, and dynamic memory pointers that points out the next writable address, are managed and stored during real time writing of the data. The data is made accessible through a virtual representation of the data in a virtual file system with a format known by an external storage medium controller, the virtual representation being related to the file specific pointers.
US08566554B2 Storage apparatus to which thin provisioning is applied and including logical volumes divided into real or virtual areas
A storage control apparatus includes a first logical volume in which data has been stored in a pool that includes at least one of one or a plurality of logical volumes based on a plurality of physical storage devices as a pool volume, and divides the first logical volume into at least two real areas. The storage control apparatus allocates the first logical volume to a second logical volume that is a virtual logical volume that has been divided into at least two virtual areas. The storage control apparatus executes a first data movement processing for moving all data of the first logical volume to at least one pool volume other than the first logical volume, and allocates a real area of a movement destination of the data to a virtual area of an allocated destination of a real area of a movement source of the data as substitute for the real area in the first data movement processing.
US08566551B2 Information apparatus and method for controlling the same
An object is to efficiently set configurations of a storage apparatus. Provided is an information apparatus communicably coupled to a storage apparatus 10, which validates a script executed by the storage apparatus 10 for setting a configuration of the storage apparatus 10, the information apparatus generating configurations of the storage apparatus 10 when after each command described in a script is executed sequentially; and performing consistency validation on the script by determining whether or not the command described in the script is normally executable in a case the command is executed on an assumption that the storage apparatus 10 has the configuration immediately before the execution.
US08566547B2 Using a migration cache to cache tracks during migration
Provided are a method, system, and computer program product for using a migration cache to cache tracks during migration. In response to a migration operation, a determination is made of a first set of tracks in the source storage indicated in an extent list and of a second set of tracks in the extent. The tracks in the source storage in the first set are copied to a migration cache. The tracks in the second set are copied directly from the source storage to the destination storage without buffering in the migration cache. The tracks in the first set are copied from the migration cache to the destination storage. The migration operation is completed in response to copying the first set of tracks from the migration cache to the destination storage and copying the second set of tracks from the source storage to the destination storage.
US08566545B2 Storage apparatus mounting frame, storage extension apparatus, and method of controlling storage apparatus
By having a storage apparatus attachment portion that secures a storage apparatus; a data read prevention processing unit that makes at least a part of data stored in the storage apparatus unreadable; and an input device that inputs a read prevention instruction for the storage apparatus, and configuring such that the data read prevention processing unit makes the data stored in the storage apparatus unreadable in response to a read prevention instruction received from the input device, data on the storage apparatus is reliably and easily set unreadable, as well as preventing data leakage from a typical storage apparatus with lower cost.
US08566542B1 Backup using storage array LUN level snapshot
A method is provided to back up a virtual machine running on a physical host server. The virtual machine has a virtual disk stored on a logical disk (LUN) in a storage array. The method includes creating a backup shadow virtual machine, taking a storage array LUN level snapshot of the LUN, mounting a copy of the virtual disk in the snapshot LUN to the backup shadow virtual machine, mounting the snapshot LUN to a physical backup proxy server, and un-mounting the snapshot LUN from the backup proxy server and the copy of the virtual disk from the backup shadow virtual machine after the backup proxy server backs up the virtual machine to one or more backup storage units.
US08566539B2 Managing thermal condition of a memory
A method, system, and computer usable program product for managing thermal condition of a memory are provided in the illustrative embodiments. A condition that a threshold value of a thermal condition of the memory has been exceeded or is likely to be exceeded is identified. A portion of a first workload is identified as being a cause of exceeding the threshold. A second portion of a second workload is identified, the second portion not causing the threshold to be exceeded when executed. A set of operations corresponding to the first portion is interleaved with a second set of operations corresponding to the second portion. The interleaved first and second portions of the first and second workloads are executed, causing the thermal condition of the memory to remain below the threshold. The second portion may use a second memory, a second area of the memory, or a combination thereof when executing.
US08566537B2 Method and apparatus to facilitate shared pointers in a heterogeneous platform
A method and apparatus to facilitate shared pointers in a heterogeneous platform. In one embodiment of the invention, the heterogeneous or non-homogeneous platform includes, but is not limited to, a central processing core or unit, a graphics processing core or unit, a digital signal processor, an interface module, and any other form of processing cores. The heterogeneous platform has logic to facilitate sharing of pointers to a location of a memory shared by the CPU and the GPU. By sharing pointers in the heterogeneous platform, the data or information sharing between different cores in the heterogeneous platform can be simplified.
US08566527B2 System and method for usage analyzer of subscriber access to communications network
A system and a method are described, whereby a data cache enables the realization of an efficient design of a usage analyzer for monitoring subscriber access to a communications network. By exploiting the speed advantages of cache memory, as well as adopting innovative data loading and retrieval choices, significant performance improvements in the time required to access the necessary data records can be realized.
US08566524B2 Transactional memory system with efficient cache support
A computer program product for use by a transaction program for managing memory access to a shared memory location for transaction data of a first thread, the shared memory location being accessible by the first thread and a second thread. A string of instructions to complete a transaction of the first thread are executed, beginning with one instruction of the string of instructions. It is determined whether the one instruction is part of an active atomic instruction group (AIG) of instructions associated with the transaction of the first thread. A cache structure and a transaction table which together provide for entries in an active mode for the AIG are located if the one instruction is part of an active AIG. The next instruction is executed under a normal execution mode in response to determining that the one instruction is not part of an active AIG.
US08566521B2 Implementing cache offloading
A computer-implemented method, computer program product, and system are provided for implementing a cache offloader. A current cache memory usage is compared with a memory threshold. Responsive to the current cache memory usage exceeding the memory threshold, cache records are selected to be offloaded. Available memory in a plurality of computer systems is identified and the selected cache records are sent to the identified available memory. Transactional systems are dynamically enabled to use memory cache across multiple connected computer systems on demand eliminating conventional evictor and data miss issues that adversely impact performance.
US08566516B2 Refresh management of memory modules
One embodiment sets forth an interface circuit configured to manage refresh command sequences that includes a system interface adapted to receive a refresh command from a memory controller, clock frequency detection circuitry configured to determine the timing for issuing staggered refresh commands to two or more memory devices coupled to the interface circuit based on the refresh command received from the memory controller, and at least two refresh command sequence outputs configured to generate the staggered refresh commands for the two or more memory devices.
US08566506B2 Tracking a lifetime of write operations to a non-volatile memory storage
A method, device, and system are disclosed. In one embodiment method begins by incrementing a count of a total number of write operations to a non-volatile memory storage for each write operation to the non-volatile memory storage. The method then receives a request for the total count of lifetime write operations from a requestor. Finally, the method sends the total count of lifetime write operations to the requestor.
US08566503B2 Multimedia filesystem having unified representation of content on diverse multimedia devices
A multimedia system comprising at least two multimedia devices having differing filesystems and/or no filesystem(s), one or more applications, and a media filesystem adapted to communicate with the at least two multimedia devices and the one or more applications is disclosed. The one or more applications are adapted to issue filesystem commands and/or receive filesystem responses in a common filesystem representation with respect to files of the at least two multimedia devices. The media filesystem may accept the filesystem commands from the one or more applications and may provide responses to filesystem commands to the one or more applications using the common filesystem representation.
US08566500B2 Expansion card and motherboard for supporting the expansion card
A motherboard assembly includes a motherboard and an expansion card. The motherboard includes an expansion slot, a hard disk drive (HDD) controller, a power connector, and a central processing unit (CPU). The expansion slot includes a protrusion, idle pins connected to the HDD controller, power pins connected to the power connector, signal pins connected to the CPU. The expansion card includes a circuit board. A storage unit, a display unit, and a power circuit connected to the storage unit and the display unit are all arranged on the circuit board. A notch is defined in a bottom side of the circuit board, to receive the protrusion. An edge connector is arranged on a bottom side of the circuit board and includes control signal pins connected to the storage unit, power pins connected to the power circuit, and bus signal pins connected to the display unit.
US08566489B2 Systems and methods for sharing a wireless antenna in a hybrid environment
Embodiments operating shared peripherals in a hybrid computing system are described. Embodiments control a shared wireless antenna variously between a primary system and a secondary system, where the secondary system is detachable from the primary system and operates as an independent computing device in the disconnected state, while operating as a display device in the connected state.
US08566478B2 Information collecting system, communication terminal and information collecting method
Information transmission requests are delivered to communication terminals existing in a specific area, to collect information held in the communication terminals, without inducing congestion. In an information collecting device included in an information collecting system, terminal information and capacity information are acquired based on base station identifying information, and information of an information amount of collected information is further acquired based on a collected information type that identifies a type of the collected information. In an information collection controlling unit, transmission timing information, designating the timing at which a capacity of performing communication via a base station is not exceeded, is generated based on the terminal information, the information-amount information and the capacity information, and an information transmission request including the transmission timing information is delivered to a communication terminal.
US08566476B2 Method and system for analyzing data related to an event
A system and method for analyzing data from a plurality of computer environments. A user may search for computer environments that meet a certain criterion. The computer environments are authenticated and data is copied from the computer environments to a memory location. The data may be marked so that a user may determine which computer environment provided the data. The user may add notations to the data during a review. Changes to data on the computer environments may be provided to a user using a syndication feed.
US08566470B2 System and method for streaming media objects
A method and system for streaming media objects. A streaming system includes a group of end nodes and at least one core node connected via an overlay network. The end nodes cache segments of media objects and stream the media objects to a client segment by segment. Each end node stores segment indices for locating segments cached on end nodes or a core node in the system. The core node is a dedicated proxy which fetches media objects from a remote media server and streams the media objects to a client when the media objects are unavailable from the end nodes.
US08566467B2 Data processing system and method
Embodiments of the present invention relate a data processing method comprising executing a first application on a first processor of a multiprocessor system and implementing, on the first processor, a first protocol stack supporting a first communication channel, bearing first communication data, associated with the first application; and executing a second application on a second processor of the multiprocessor system and implementing, on the second processor, a second protocol stack supporting a second communication channel, bearing second communication data, associated with the second application.
US08566455B1 Method and apparatus for supporting multiple connections in 3GPP systems
A method and apparatus for establishing connectivity between a mobile node and a plurality of packet data networks. The method includes establishing a first connection between a mobile node and a first packet data network, the first connection being made through a first access network; establishing a second connection between the mobile node and a second packet data network, the second connection being made through a second access data network; establishing a third connection between the mobile node and the first packet data network, the third connection being made through the second access network; and simultaneously sending data from the mobile node to the first packet data network over the first connection and the third connection.
US08566448B2 System and method for providing device file using device identifier
A system and method for providing a device profile using a device identifier are disclosed. The system for providing a device profile using a device identifier includes: a mobile terminal that provides a device identifier having information regarding a hierarchical structure of a server and a model name; a plurality of servers that analyze the device identifier to recognize the lowermost server when the device identifier is queried, acquire a device profile corresponding to the device identifier through the lowermost server, and provide the acquired device profile; and an application server that connects to one of the plurality of servers, queries the device identifier, and is provided with a device profile corresponding to the device identifier. Device description of various mobile terminals can be more effectively managed and used in a mobile environment.
US08566445B2 Method and apparatus for load balancing
A method and apparatus is provided in which a multi-site load balancing system directs a client to a site best able to respond to the client's request based on a combination of balancing methods. Performance metric balancing is employed to select sites having the best performance metrics to participate in network latency balancing to determine the site best able to respond the request. The sites participating in the network latency balancing are selected based on having performance metrics within an allowable deviation of the best performance metric. Alternatively, network latency balancing is employed to select sites having the least network latency to participate in performance metric balancing to determine the site best able to respond to the request.
US08566435B1 Computer implemented configuration of a management module
A system and computer-implemented method for configuring a baseboard management controller (BMC) for use in monitoring operation of various computer system components is disclosed. The BMC is communicatively connected to a plurality of components by way of a plurality of slave addresses. Each of the plurality of components sense information related to operating and performance-related parameters associated with various operating conditions inherent in the operation of the computer system. The components provide this sensed information to the BMC, which analyzes the information to determine whether any events are occurring in the computer system. Such an event would be the temperature within the computer system chassis being too hot. Those components communicatively connected to the management module are detected and then identified. Based on these identifications, a configuration file is created and incorporated into the BMC firmware to effectuate the aforementioned configuration process.
US08566431B2 Identification device and method for device identification
A device having a unique identification or an identifier for uniquely identifying the device. The unique identification can be a series of alphanumeric characters, a series of numeric characters or letters of the alphabet. The device further comprises a storage module for storing the unique identification. The device also comprises a controller for establishing communication with a computing system over a network when the device is coupled to the network. The device has an address on the network, also known as a network address, when coupled thereto. The network address and the unique identification are transmittable by the controller to the computing system upon communication being established with computing system. The controller comprises a processor and a network access module for facilitating coupling of the device to the network. The device is able to receive data from the computing system, the data storable in the storage module.
US08566428B2 Cloud-based software eco-system
A novel eco-system is provided which first supplies a standardized template of one or more virtual machine images for software module providers/vendors. A plurality of modules executing on the virtual machine images is selected by a user to comprise a plurality of configurations. A suitable configuration may be determined according to a metric and the determined suitable configuration of software modules is subsequently used to build an end-to-end solution.
US08566421B2 Method for creating and providing layered syndicated data for multimedia content to users
A layered syndicated feed or content is provided having layers defined according to a media type (e.g., text, graphic, audio, or video) wherein each layer has a plurality of levels such that each level provides either inclusive or exclusive content of the layer's media type in varying degrees of detail or depth. Furthermore, a system is provided for requesting and storing user and mobile device profiles indicative of the syndicated content layers and levels that the user is interested in receiving and that the user's mobile device is capable of receiving.
US08566419B2 Systems and methods for enhanced user communications
Disclosed herein are systems and associated methods for operating web interactive services in conjunction with communication services, linking the communication with the interaction by means of a session-specific identifier such as a telephone number. During the course of a web session, user interaction information may be collected, that information potentially indicating subjects of interest to a user associated with the session-specific identifier. In the event the user uses the identifier make a contact regarding the information, the identifier can be used to associate the interaction information and subjects of interest, such that the contact may have that information and those subjects available to assist a user making contact. Interaction and subject information may also be used to customize the interaction with a contacting user with regard to the routing of a telephone call, a greeting, a product or service offering, or other communication.
US08566417B2 Network access with a portable memory device
The invention relates to a method and portable electronic device for accessing a remote computer. The portable electronic device, e.g. a specially configured Universal Serial Bus (USB) device comprises an interface configured to connect the portable memory device with a local electronic device. The portable electronic device further comprises a memory configured to store the needed software and settings for establishing a remote connection from the portable memory device to a remote computer when connected to the local electronic device, the software and settings enabling the remote computer to appear as a local memory storage to the local electronic device.
US08566399B2 Method and system for synchronizing a drafts folder
A method and system for synchronizing a draft of an email is described. The system includes a computer device and a handheld device in communication with the computer device via a wireless communication network. The system further includes a saving module located in one or the other device to allow a user to save an email message therein as a draft. A sending module is located in the computer device (handheld device) for sending the draft therefrom to the handheld device (computer device). A send trigger module in the computer device (handheld device) issues instructions, which are unsolicited by the handheld device (computer device), that cause the sending module to send the draft from the computer device (handheld device) to the other device.
US08566386B2 Logging of rich entertainment platform service history for use as a community building tool
Systems, methods, and computer readable media are disclosed for aggregating event records obtained from a plurality of videogame consoles, and generating event objects for each event record of the plurality. Additionally, the event objects can be stored in a database that is exposed to a third party via a connection to a network such as the Internet. In addition to the foregoing, other aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.
US08566376B2 System and method for data compression using a field programmable gate array
A system and method for compressing and/or decompressing data uses a field programmable gate array (FPGA). In an embodiment, the method includes receiving data at the FPGA device, filtering the received data in a first dimension using a first logic structure of the FPGA device, storing the first filtered data in a memory of the FPGA device, filtering the received data in a second dimension using a second logic structure of the FPGA device, storing the second filtered data in the memory, quantizing the filtered data using a third logic structure of the FPGA device, encoding the quantized data using a fourth logic structure of the FPGA device to compress the data, and storing the encoded compressed data in a memory of the FPGA device.
US08566374B2 Method and system to generate and deliver auto-assembled presentations based on queries of multimedia collections
A media query system interprets one or more requests for at least one of media or templates in a framework template based on a user query input, executes one or more search queries based on the one or more requests for media or templates to locate and download candidates comprised of at least one of candidate media elements or candidate template elements, and evaluates the candidates for each of the one or more search queries to select winning media candidates comprised of selected candidate media elements and candidate template elements.
US08566371B1 Reclaiming storage from a file system in a file server
A file server provides access to a file system built on a logical volume of data storage. The file system includes multiple cylinder groups of file system blocks, and the logical volume includes slices of the cylinder groups. The file server has a storage reorganizer for identifying allocated file system blocks in a selected slice, and evacuating the identified allocated file system blocks from the selected slice. The selected slice is evacuated by reverse mapping each identified allocated block to identify a file to which the identified allocated block is allocated, allocating a new block in another slice, copying data from the identified allocated block to the new block, and substituting the new block for the identified allocated block in the file.
US08566365B1 Digital asset hosting and distribution
A first collection of content that includes digital assets is maintained on a host computer. Based on a determination that a portable media device becomes connected to a client computer that is separate from the host computer and that interacts with the host computer, initiation of a synchronization of the first collection of content resident on the host computer with a second collection of content on the portable media device is automatically triggered. The synchronization of the first collection with the second collection includes a transfer of at least one of the digital assets from the host computer to the client computer to the portable media device and is triggered and conditioned upon the determination that the portable media device has become connected to the client computer.
US08566358B2 Framework to populate and maintain a service oriented architecture industry model repository
A method for building a service oriented architecture industry model repository comprising: creating a meta-meta-meta model with a topic map based index; pre-populating the meta-meta-meta model with a topic map based index using the data from the physical asset repository and known relationships between topics, associations, and occurrences in topic maps within the meta model service; pre-populating an information model repository common meta-meta model comprising reusing a taxonomy specific to an industry vertical as a common ontology for the topic map based index; pre-populating the at least one topic map meta model with data specific to a particular topic or industry vertical from the physical asset repository; and pre-populating models of the at least one topic map meta model with data specific to a particular topic or industry vertical from the physical asset repository.
US08566356B2 High efficiency binary encoding
A method and a system are provided for encoding and processing digital information. The digital information is encoded according to binary encoding formats corresponding to primitive data types. The primitive data types comprise scalar data types including Boolean, integer, float, decimal, time stamp, string, symbol, binary large object, and character large object data types. The primitive data types also comprise composite data types including structure, list, and S-expression data types. The binary-encoded digital information is stored in a message with a predetermined format for transmission. No metadata is included in the message.
US08566350B2 Method and apparatus for facilitating document sanitization
One embodiment provides a system for facilitating sanitizing a modified version of a document relative to one or more sensitive topics. During operation, the system determines a privacy risk for a term in the modified version relative to the sensitive topics, wherein the privacy risk measures the extent to which the sensitive topic(s) can be inferred based on the term. Next, the system determines an information utility and privacy loss or gain for the modified version, where the information utility reflects the extent to which the modified version has changed and the privacy loss or gain reflects the extent to which the modified version is reduced in sensitivity.
US08566339B2 Mining product recommendation from query reformulations
In various example embodiments, systems and methods to mine product recommendations from query reformulation is provided. In example embodiments, a search query is mapped to a particular product. Transition data for the particular product is accessed. The transition data includes values reflecting a number of search transitions between the particular product and other products in session sets of previous queries. One or more recommendations based on the transition data is determined and provided to the user.
US08566334B2 Data visualization system with axis binding
In one general aspect, the application discloses a data visualization method that includes accessing data tables and receiving an axis binding definition for a particular visualization that relates values in a first of the tables to sets of fields in a second of the tables. A marking indication can then be received that selects one of the values in the first of the tables, and a set of fields in the second table is accessed based on the marking indication and the axis binding definition. This accessed set of fields is presented in the particular visualization for which the axis binding definition was received.
US08566331B1 Ordering image search results
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, for ranking images are disclosed. An image search subsystem generates an adjustment factor representative of a quality measure of an image relative to a search query. The quality represents a relevance of the image to the query. The adjustment factor can be computed based on relevance data for the image to the query and image similarity data representing a relative similarity between the image and other images relevant to the query. The relevance data can be based on user actions in response to the image being included in search results for the query. The adjustment factor can be scaled based on whether the relevance data and the image similarity data both indicate that the image is relevant to the search query. A relevance score is computed based on the adjustment factor (e.g., a product of the adjustment factor and relevance score).
US08566330B1 Prioritizing feed content
Techniques for providing prioritized content to a mobile device include detecting, for each feed of a number of feeds delivered to the mobile device through a portal, one or more associated tags, each tag comprising a keyword; comparing the one or more tags associated with the feeds to one or more properties associated with a user profile of a user in the portal; ranking, based on the comparison, the feeds to define a ranked list of feeds; and preparing a subset of the ranked list of feeds for display on the mobile device.
US08566325B1 Building search by contents
Aspects of the invention relate generally to identifying and providing 3D models in response to a search request. More specifically, a server may access a database of 3D models, at least some of which include geolocation information such as an address, intersection, or geolocation coordinates. The server may select a particular model and identify points of interest. For example, the server may use detailed map information to identify points of interest located at or near the geolocation information associated with the particular model. Once a point of interest has been identified, a corresponding system tag may be generated and associated with the 3D model. Tags may be used to index, search, and retrieve 3D models in response to a search request. For example, when a request for a 3D model is received, the server identifies the search terms and searches the tags to identify relevant 3D models.
US08566324B1 Inverted index and inverted list process for storing and retrieving information
A process is disclosed for the computer management of inverted lists and inverted indices, in which the standard representation and processing of inverted lists is changed in order to achieve a simpler, more compact and more efficient architecture.
US08566318B1 Process for physical database design based on transaction workload
A process is disclosed for using the computer for physical database design, which is based on transaction workload, and minimizes the cost of retrieval and modification for a set of transactions on a database.
US08566317B1 Apparatus and methods for scalable object clustering
One embodiment relates to an apparatus configured to efficiently group a set of strings into clusters of related strings. Data storage is configured to store computer-readable code and data, and a processor is configured to access the data storage and to execute said computer-readable code. Computer-readable code is configured to receive the set of strings, determine an evaluation function between pairs of strings in said set, and group the strings into clusters, wherein determining the evaluation function between pairs of strings utilizes hash tables. Another embodiment relates to a computer-implemented method of efficiently grouping a set of strings into clusters of related strings based on rules of inference. Other embodiments and features are also disclosed.
US08566311B2 Method and apparatus for notifying a user of a predefined changes to dynamic attributes
Methods and apparatus are provided for subscribing to dynamic attributes. One or more users are notified of information having a plurality of attributes, including at least one dynamic attribute. According to one aspect of the invention, a user can enter a subscription request to be notified when the at least one dynamic attribute changes a value. For example, the subscription request can notify the user when the dynamic attribute (i) changes a value to one or more predefined values; (ii) changes to satisfy a user specified condition; or (iii) changes to a value within a specified range of values. The subscription request can optionally include one or more temporal conditions. For example, the temporal conditions can evaluate whether the dynamic attribute satisfied a value constraint during a given time interval.
US08566305B2 Method and apparatus to define the scope of a search for information from a tabular data source
A method and apparatus for defining the scope of a search is described. In one embodiment, user input is received, and the scope is defined, based on the user input, for a search of free-form text for information from any random rows within a tabular structure of source data. In one embodiment, the search is intended for finding, in the free-form text, a sub-set of data fragments that matches information from any single row within the tabular structure of the source data.
US08566304B2 System and method for citation processing, presentation and transport
The present invention comprises a system and method for automatically processing one or more citations contained within a document while the document is presented by a document rendering application. The method of the present invention comprises scanning the document to identify an unformatted citation and parsing the unformatted citation to determine one or more citation terms. One or more citation libraries are queried to find citations comprising the one or more citation terms. A citation falling within the scope of the query is selected and inserted into the document.
US08566297B1 Method to spoof data formats from image backups
A system and method for efficiently accessing large data storage subsystems with a different file format than a format used by running applications. A backup server is coupled to a data storage medium, and is configured to store data on the data storage medium according to a first file format. A client is coupled to the backup server and is configured to convey memory access requests for data stored in the data storage medium. The client is unable to decipher the first file format. A filter driver in the backup server is coupled to intercept the requests from the client. The filter driver is configured to decipher the first file format; spoof the existence of one or more spoofed files that do not exist on the data storage medium, wherein each of the one or more spoofed files corresponds to data stored on the data storage medium; and present the spoofed files to the client.
US08566281B2 Method for implementing multi-array consistency groups using a write queuing mechanism
A method includes applying a write Input/Output (I/O) queue interval to a Logical Unit (LU) member of a consistency group (CG). The method also includes marking each write I/O with a timestamp and suspending I/O from the participating storage array to the LU member of the CG upon the participating storage array receiving a snapshot request from a master storage array. The method further includes determining whether the snapshot request timestamp is within the write I/O queue interval of the participating storage array.
US08566273B2 Method, system, and computer program for information retrieval in semantic networks
A method, system, and computer software for information retrieval in semantic networks, has the steps of: acquiring a graph of interest, assuming a novel metric regarding the acquired graph, specifying a query node of interest on the obtained graph, calculating a shortest-path distance from the query node of interest to a plurality of other nodes on the acquired graph, obtaining a ranked list of nodes based on the calculated shortest-path distance, and displaying for a user the retrieved information.
US08566272B2 Information processing apparatus, information processing method, program for recognizing behavior
There is provided an information processing apparatus including: a sensor data generator sensing a user behavior and generating sensor data corresponding to the user behavior; a behavior recognizing unit performing a predetermined threshold value process on the sensor data to recognize the behavior exhibited by the user and generating behavior information that is information indicating the behavior exhibited by the user; a behavior manager managing the behavior information generated by the behavior recognizing unit in correspondence with the time point at which the behavior corresponding to the behavior information is exhibited; and a behavior information post-processing unit performing a predetermined post-process on the behavior information managed by the behavior manager, wherein the behavior recognizing unit further includes a plurality of behavior determination units specified to specific behaviors exhibited by the user and generates the behavior information based on the determination results of the plurality of behavior determination units.
US08566266B2 Method for scheduling the operation of power generators using factored Markov decision process
An optimal conditional operational schedule for a set of power generators is determined by constructing states and transitions of a factored Markov decision process (fMDP) from a target electrical demand and generator variables. A cost function for the fMDP is constructed based on the electrical demand, the generator variables, and a risk coefficient. Then, the fMDP is solved to obtain the optimal conditional operational schedule.
US08566263B2 Adaptive computer-based personalities
A method and system for adapting computer-based personalities, as manifested by textual or audio communications, is disclosed. The communications comprise one or more phrases that may be selected non-deterministically. The frequency distribution of the plurality of potential phrases is updated based on the behaviors of the communications recipients. Thus, the frequency of the selection of phrases included in communications, and hence the “personality,” of the computer-based system, is influenced by prior usage behaviors. The computer-based personality may also exhibit “self-awareness” by monitoring changes in phrase frequency distributions over time, as well as being capable of expressing awareness of, and inferences from, changes in the behavior patterns of users over time.
US08566255B2 System and method for electronic transaction verification
A system and method for authenticating a physical address submitted in an online communication is disclosed. An online communication comprising a physical address to be verified is received. A verification identification (VID) is requested and received. A transaction verification document (TVD) comprising an indicia indicative of the VID is generated. An electronic copy of the TVD is transmitted. Verification data produced in response to dispatch of a physical embodiment of the TVD is received, wherein the physical embodiment is generated from the electronic copy. The physical address is authenticated based at least in part on the verification data.
US08566254B2 Social broadcasting user experience
A method of providing user participation in a social broadcast environment is disclosed. A network communication is received from a user of a broadcast that includes a preference data indicating a preference of the user that a promoted content be included in the broadcast. Via a responsive network communication, a feedback data is provided to the user that includes a predicted future time at which the promoted content may be included in the broadcast.
US08566253B2 System and method for managing information flow between members of an online social network
An online social network is provided in which members of the online social network control who may view their personal information and who may communicate with them. The members control who may view their personal information by setting a visibility preference. A member may not view another member's full personal profile if the measure of relatedness between the two is greater than the visibility preference of the other member. The members also control who may communicate with them by setting a contactability preference. A member may not communicate with another member if the measure of relatedness between the two is greater than the contactability preference of the other member.
US08566247B1 System and method for secure communications involving an intermediary
A system and method for communicating information or a cryptographic key therefore between a first party and a second party, comprising the steps of receiving, by an intermediary, an identifier of desired information and accounting information for a transaction involving the information from the first party, transmitting an identifier of the first party to the second party, and negotiating, by the intermediary, a comprehension function for obscuring at least a portion of the information communicated between the first party and the second party. The data transmission may be made secure with respect to the intermediary by providing an asymmetric key or direct key exchange for encryption of the communication between the first and second party. The data transmission may be made secure with respect to the second party by maintaining the information in encrypted format at the second party, with the decryption key held only by the intermediary, and transmitting a secure composite of the decryption key and a new encryption key to the second party for transcoding of the data record, and providing the new decryption key to the first party, so that the information transmitted to the first party can be comprehended by it. According to the present invention, asymmetric key encryption may be employed to provide the establishment of secure communications channels involving an intermediary, without making the intermediary privy to the decryption key or the message.
US08566224B2 Systems and methods to create, compare, customize, promote, track, optimize and shop for index or theme based portfolios of securities
A system and associated method for conducting index or theme based basket security transactions includes a client device with a client interface, and is configured to receive an index or theme based basket client order. A host server is coupled to the client device and executes logic resources for carrying out transactions for a client. A pricing engine, an inventory account and a targets engine are included. The trading engine is configured to process the client index or theme based basket order as a single order. The trading engine enables the trading of fraction shares in real time as well as reduces a frequency of orders sent to market by executing principal trades against the inventory account.
US08566220B2 Block placing tool for building a user-defined algorithm for electronic trading
Certain embodiments provide a block placing tool for building a user-defined algorithm for electronic trading. Certain embodiments provide for receiving by a block placing tool a selection of one or more blocks. Certain embodiments provide for receiving by a block placing tool a mapping definition including a mapping between block types and/or attributes. Certain embodiments provide for placing blocks based on a selection of blocks and a mapping definition.
US08566216B1 System and method for trading exposure clearing house
Aspects of the present invention are directed to a computer-implemented trading exposure management method and system for centrally managing trading exposures within an industry. The method may include receiving a client request for additional exposure capacity above a predetermined client exposure limit with respect to a particular counterparty and selecting a third party with available exposure capacity with respect to the particular counterparty. The method may additionally include transferring at least a portion of the selected third party's available exposure capacity with respect to the particular counterparty to the client.
US08566214B2 Method, computer program product, and apparatus for providing reverse auction transport services
A method, computer program product, and apparatus for providing reverse auction services are provided. A reverse auction request for transportation or a reverse auction request for delivery is received from a communications device. Geographical location information of an origination location and a destination location for the reverse auction request for transportation or delivery is received from the communications device. The reverse auction request for transportation or delivery is transmitted. Bids to the reverse auction request for transportation or delivery are received. The bids to the request for transportation or delivery are transmitted to the communications device.
US08566211B2 System and method for a dynamic auction with package bidding
The present invention is a system and method for a computer-implemented auction, based on a system with multiple bidder and auctioneer computers or terminals (20a-n,30) communicating with the server (10) over a network (40). The computers (20a-n) are employed by bidders, the computer (30) is employed by the auctioneer, and the server (10) is the auction computer. That server consist of a CPU (11), memory (12), a data storage device (13), a communication interface (140), a clock (150), an operating system (16), and an auction program (17). In one embodiment, the system architecture is as a client-server system: the auction computer is a server; and the bidder and auctioneer are clients.
US08566206B2 Pension fund systems
There is provided a computer-implemented method of projecting the future cash flows of a pension scheme, comprising: receiving data representative of the members of the pension scheme; receiving data representative of a mortality assumption; calculating, using data processing apparatus, for each pension scheme member, a projection of the future cash flow liabilities of the pension scheme to that member on the basis of the pension scheme member data and by applying the mortality assumption data to the pension scheme member data; and generating, using data processing apparatus, data representative of a projected liability cash flow of the pension scheme to all of its members by aggregating the liabilities to each member.
US08566204B2 Method for detecting ineligibility of a beneficiary and system
A method and system are presented for identifying improper benefit payments to an ineligible beneficiary. Record data may be accessed from a financial institution and may be analyzed to indentify patterns within the banking transactions. Deviations may be identified between a near-term pattern and a far-term pattern by applying one or more rules, which may be ranked. The deviations that are identified may be determined to be either in compliance, in noncompliance, or within some acceptable level of compliance. A level of noncompliance outside of a range of acceptable noncompliance may result in generating a request for an action to be taken, such as an audit of the beneficiary. The aforementioned methods may be carried out using a computerized device.
US08566201B1 Systems and methods for money fund banking with flexible interest allocation
Method, system and program product, the method comprising: accessing databases, comprising: aggregated account information for FDIC-insured aggregated deposit accounts in banks in a program, client account information; receiving via the Internet fund transfer data for client accounts; allocating amounts to banks participating in the program to be held in aggregated deposit accounts based at least in part on the fund transfer data; determining an amount of funds to be transferred to or from banks based on the allocating step; determining for plurality of client accounts a respective interest rate from among at least three different interest rates; calculating for each client account determined to have first interest rate a respective interest for funds of the client account; calculating for each client account have second interest rate interest for the client account; determining for respective client accounts interest earned.
US08566192B2 Method or apparatus for sharing image data
A method and apparatus shares image data between devices in which a user can automatically search for desired data using time and geographical position data and then negotiate an exchange for any located data.
US08566187B2 Interactive account management system and method
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a computer-implemented interactive account management system operated in cooperation with a financial institution on behalf of multiple account holders. The interactive account management system may include a financial networking engine implemented by a processor for defining a financial network for each account holder and for identifying each member of an account holder financial network based on stored account information and account holder input. The system may additionally include interactive processing components for processing information to provide collaborative interaction between the members of the account holder financial network defined by the financial networking engine and user interface presentation tools for displaying financial guidance and collaborative interaction interfaces and inviting active participation from the financial network members.
US08566186B1 Method and system for thin client based image and transaction management
Provided is a system for coordinating collection and processing of digital data by a plurality of deposit modules with respect to a plurality of users over a communications network, the digital data based on a plurality of original paper deposits and including at least digital images of the original paper deposits and respective deposit information, the system comprising: a communications module that provides a list of one or more deposit functions assigned to each respective user, each of the deposit functions coordinated by a corresponding module of the plurality of deposit modules, and that provides a list of the respective digital data that is associated with each of the assigned deposit modules; the plurality of deposit modules that facilitates a distribution of the deposit functions for the collection and processing of the digital data with one or more users of the plurality of users, the deposit modules including a first module that monitors receipt of the digital images and respective deposit information of the digital data, the first module associated with a scanner function of the list of deposit functions, and including a second module for implementing on the digital data a second deposit function of the plurality of the deposit functions; and a workflow module that monitors a flow of the digital data between the first deposit module and the second deposit module based on a completion status of the digital data with respect to the first module.
US08566177B2 User supplied and refined tags
Managing online content via user supplied and/or refined tagging is disclosed. In some embodiments, a selection of an item available from an online store is received, and one or more tags to be associated with the item are received from a member of an online community comprising users of the online store. In some embodiments, an indication of a degree of usefulness of a tag is received from a member of an online community, and an attribute of the tag is updated to reflect the indication.
US08566172B2 Distressed properties marketing system and method
A computerized system and method is presented that allows selling agents to market a listing agent's distressed property listings even though the selling agents work for a different broker than the listing agent. The owner of the property may restrict the selling agents that may market their property. In one embodiment, the owner selects a qualified lender, and the pool of selling agents who may market that property is limited to selling agents who are associated in the computerized system with the qualified lender. The system allows selling agents to schedule open houses for distressed properties listed by the listing agent, with the system preventing two selling agents from scheduling open houses that conflict with one another. The system tracks the marketing activity of agents, which can be used to suggest listing agents to owners, or to restrict the ability of selling agents to market properties.
US08566167B2 System and method for using data points collected from a customer to provide customer specific offerings
A retailer computer system receives from a first computing device a shopping recap having data indicative of one or more products that were shown to a customer by the sales associate while the customer was within a retail establishment. The received shopping recap is stored within a data repository where it is linked to a customer identifier that is associated with the customer and an associate identifier that is associated with the sale associate. If the customer later purchases a product, data indicative of the product being purchased is compared against data within any shopping recap that is linked to that customer to determine if a sales associate that is also linked to any shopping recap linked to that customer is to be awarded a commission for the product being purchased. The purchase of the product by the customer may further generate a digital receipt where the digital receipt includes a notice that the customer is being awarded an incentive, such as a coupon. The incentive may be automatically linked to a rewards account of the customer whereupon, if the customer purchases a product that is associated with the incentive, the incentive will be automatically redeemed for the customer.
US08566159B2 Location-aware advertising to parking location users
A payment system for parking locations communicates with a plurality of parking meters, each of which is associated with a predetermined geographic location corresponding to a parking location. The system receives user identifying information via a communication related to payment for a parking session at a parking location identified by the communication, and determines a user credit/debit card data for payment of the parking session based on the user identifying information. Data related to the parking session at the geographic location of the parking meter is stored in a database associated with a parking history of the user, and determines one or more advertisements to communicate to the user based on the geographic location of the parking meter and previously stored data related to the parking history of the user.
US08566156B2 Combining segments of users into vertically indexed super-segments
Techniques are described herein for combining segments of users into super-segments. The interests of the segments in online ad campaigns in which they participate are compared to determine subsets of the segments whose interests are correlated to an extent that exceeds a designated threshold. The segments in each subset are combined to provide a respective super-segment. Each online ad campaign corresponds to a specified category, such as telecommunications, auto, finance, retail, entertainment, travel, etc. For each super-segment, the cumulative interest of the segments therein for each category are determined. The cumulative interests for each super-segment are used to determine which super-segment(s) are to be targeted for receiving a specified online advertisement. For instance, the cumulative interests of the respective super-segments in the category most closely related to a subject matter with which the specified online advertisement is associated may be compared to determine which super-segment(s) are to be targeted.
US08566152B1 Delivering content to users based on advertisement interaction type
Systems and methods for improving the delivery of interactive advertisements are discussed herein. Systems and methods include approaches and solutions for boosting the rank of certain ads and/or ad types based on a combination of their interaction type and an ad interaction history for a given user, vertical, or aggregate indicator. Systems and methods also include suppressing ads unlikely to be interacted with from ranking and format boosting based on such ad interaction history.
US08566144B2 Closed loop voting feedback
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for providing reviewer feedback identifying a correlation between a reviewer's past voting record and successful results. Based on a reviewer's past record, the reviewer may be assigned a power rating identifying the statistical accuracy of the reviewer's voting history. That power rating may be used to weight future votes, thereby increasing the likelihood that accurate decisions will be made.
US08566143B2 Performing predictive pricing based on historical data
Techniques are described for using predictive pricing information for items to assist in evaluating buying and/or selling decisions in various ways, such as on behalf of end-user item acquirers and/or intermediate item providers. The predictive pricing for an item may be based on an analysis of historical pricing information for that item and/or related items, and can be used to make predictions about future pricing information for the item. Such predictions may then be provided to users in various ways to enable comparison of current prices to predicted future prices. In some situations, predictive pricing information is used to assist customers when purchasing airline tickets and/or to assist travel agents when selling airline tickets. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and it is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.
US08566140B2 Method for providing custom profile analysis in a demographic information system
A method of providing demographic visitor information to a participating web site including registering a user with an information gathering system, wherein the information gathering system solicits personal information from the user and wherein the information gathering system maintains a profile for the registered user; detecting a visit of the registered user to a participating web site, wherein the participating web site is operated independently from the information gathering system; and providing a demographic information report to the participating web site, wherein the demographic information report is related to at least one registered user who has visited the participating web site.
US08566131B1 Insurance policy hold
Managing insurance policy processing includes: receiving a set of insurance policy hold criteria specifying an insurance policy hold, the insurance policy hold criteria comprising an insurance policy hold period during which the insurance policy hold is in effect; receiving a request to execute an insurance policy processing operation on an insurance policy; determining, based at least in part on the set of policy hold criteria, that the insurance policy processing operation is subject to the insurance policy hold; disallowing the insurance policy processing operation from being executed; determining that the insurance policy hold is to be released; and allowing the insurance policy hold to be released.
US08566118B2 Method and apparatus for controlling a warming therapy device
An apparatus and method for controlling a warming therapy device (e.g., incubator, warmer, etc.) is described. In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus includes a Graphical User Interface (GUI) coupled to the warming therapy device for monitoring patient medical information, and for controlling various aspects of the warming therapy device accordingly.
US08566108B2 Synchronization of multiple real-time transport protocol sessions
A packet generator for generating packets from an input signal configured to: generate at least one first signal, dependent on the input signal, the first signal comprising a first relative time value; generate at least one second signal, dependent on the input signal and associated with the at least one first signal; and generate at least one indicator associated with each of the at least one second signal, each indicator dependent on the first relative time value.
US08566105B2 Apparatus and method for encoding and decoding of audio data using a rounding off unit which eliminates residual sign bit without loss of precision
A method and apparatus for encoding audio data and a method and apparatus for decoding audio data, which can generate and decode, respectively, scalable lossless streams and which can shorten the time necessary to generate and decode lossless streams. A lossy-core encoder unit performs lossy compression on an input audio signal, generating a core stream. A simplified lossy-core decoding unit decodes only spectral signals of a specified band, e.g., a lower frequency band to generate a lossy decoded audio signal. A subtracter subtracts a lossy decoded audio signal from the input audio signal delayed to generate a residual signal. A rounding-off unit performs a process of rounding off the number of bits constituting the residual signal by eliminating the residual sign bit without loss of precision. A lossless-enhance encoder unit performs lossless compression on the residual signal to generate an enhanced stream. A stream-combining unit combines the core stream and the enhanced stream to generate a scalable lossless stream.
US08566100B2 Automated method and system for obtaining user-selected real-time information on a mobile communication device
A customized live tile application module can be configured in association with the mobile communication device in order to automatically vocalize the real-time information preselected by a user in a multitude of languages. A text-to-speech application module can be integrated with the customized live tile application module to automatically vocalize the preselected real-time information. The real-time information can be obtained from a tile and/or a website integrated with a remote server and announced after a text to speech conversion process without opening the tile, if the tiles are selected for announcement of information by the device. Such an approach automatically and instantly pushes a vocal alert with respect to the user-selected real-time information on the mobile communication device thereby permitting the user to continue multitasking. Information from tiles can also be rendered on second screens from a mobile device.
US08566088B2 System and method for automatic speech to text conversion
Speech recognition is performed in near-real-time and improved by exploiting events and event sequences, employing machine learning techniques including boosted classifiers, ensembles, detectors and cascades and using perceptual clusters. Speech recognition is also improved using tandem processing. An automatic punctuator injects punctuation into recognized text streams.
US08566076B2 System and method for applying bridging models for robust and efficient speech to speech translation
A system and method for speech translation includes a bridge module connected between a first component and a second component. The bridge module includes a transformation model configured to receive an original hypothesis output from a first component. The transformation model has one or more transformation features configured to transform the original hypothesis into a new hypothesis that is more easily translated by the second component.
US08566061B2 Method and system for signal generation via a temperature sensing crystal integrated circuit
Aspects of the invention may comprise an integrated circuit comprising a memory, a temperature sensor, a crystal, and a communication module. Data stored in the memory may indicate a frequency of the crystal as a function of temperature and/or time. The memory may be writable via the communication module. Data stored in the memory of the integrated circuit may be updated based on an age and/or time of use of the integrated circuit. The time of use may be one or both of: how long the crystal has been oscillating since its most-recent start up, and how long the crystal has been in use over its lifetime. An electronic device may calculate a frequency of an oscillating signal output by the crystal based on a temperature indication from the temperature sensor and data read from the memory of the integrated circuit.
US08566056B2 System and method of speed detection in an AC induction machine
A system and method for determining rotor speed of an AC induction machine is disclosed. The system is programmed to estimate a rotor speed of the induction machine according to a linear speed estimation algorithm and based on name plate information (NPI) of the induction machine and parameters of the AC induction machine during operation thereof. The rotor speed estimation system is also programmed to estimate a rotor speed of the AC induction machine according to a frequency-domain signal processing algorithm and determine if the rotor speed estimated thereby is valid. If the rotor speed estimated by the frequency-domain signal processing algorithm is valid, then a tuned rotor speed of the AC induction machine is estimated according to the linear speed estimation algorithm and based, in part, on the rotor speed estimated by the frequency-domain signal processing algorithm.
US08566047B2 Electrical anomaly detection method and system
There are provided a method and a system for real time monitoring of a powered on electrical network in a facility in order to detect an electrical anomaly while the electrical network is in use. The system comprises a sensor data receiver for receiving real time sensor data including at least one measured value measured in real time by at least one sensor installed on a conductor of the electrical network in the facility while the electrical network is in use; an anomaly detector for retrieving an anomaly detection rule from an anomaly detection rule database, the rule having an identification of a required input, a formula, and a threshold reference value, for a detection of an anomaly; receiving the real time sensor data from the sensor data receiver and extracting at least one relevant measured value from the at least one measured value using the identification of the required input; comparing the at least one relevant measured value to the threshold reference value according to the formula to determine one of a presence and an absence of the anomaly in the real time sensor data; an event generator controlled by the processor for retrieving and providing anomaly monitoring data if the anomaly is determined to be present by the processor, the anomaly monitoring data including an indication of a monitoring course of action to be carried out to address the anomaly determined to be present.
US08566046B2 System, device and method for determining power line equipment degradation
A system, method and device for detecting power grid equipment degradation is provided. In one embodiment, a method of using a device comprises measuring a first voltage of a first energized conductor of a power line connected to the output of a distribution transformer supplying power to one or more customer premises, processing data of the measured voltage to detect a trigger condition wherein the trigger condition comprises, at least in part, a change in the first voltage that extends for at least a first duration, and transmitting a notification of a detection of a trigger condition to a remote computer. The method may further include measuring a second voltage of a second energized conductor and wherein the trigger condition comprises detecting concurrently for at least the first duration a difference between the first voltage and the second voltage that exceeds a first threshold, and a sum of the first voltage and the second voltage that is within a predetermined voltage range. In addition, processing data of the measured voltage to detect a trigger condition may include comprise processing the data to determine whether the first voltage changes beyond a first threshold within a first predetermined maximum time period and remains beyond the first threshold for at least a second duration.
US08566039B2 Method and system to characterize transcriptionally active regions and quantify sequence abundance for large scale sequencing data
This invention provides a quantitative method to determine transcriptionally active regions and quantify sequence abundance from large scale sequencing data. The invention also provides a system based on reference sequences to design and implement the method. The system processes large scale sequence data from high throughput sequencing, generates transcriptionally active region sequences as necessary, and quantifies the sequence abundance of the gene or transcriptionally active region. The method and system are useful for many analyses based on RNA expression profiling.
US08566037B2 Method and system for passive electroseismic surveying
A method of passive surveying comprises generating one or more detected signals by passively detecting a signal generated within a subsurface earth formation due to a seismoelectric response or an electroseismic response in at least one porous subsurface earth formation containing at least one fluid, and processing the one or more detected signals to determine at least one property of the subsurface earth formation.
US08566029B1 Enhanced identification of interesting points-of-interest
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for identifying points-of-interest. In one aspect, a method includes identifying points-of-interest (POIs) associated with one or more of multiple, selected geographic areas, and determining, for each of the multiple geographic areas, a score associated with the identified POIs. The actions also include generating a combined score for each identified POI based on the determined scores associated with the respective POI, selecting a subset of the identified POIs based at least on the combined scores, and displaying a link to the POIs in the subset.
US08566028B2 Apparatus, system, and method for autonomously determining a set of destinations
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for autonomously determining a set of destinations. A landmark module stores a plurality of landmarks from a database. An identification module identifies a first current location and direction of the vehicle. In response to receiving a help command from the help button, a destination module determines a first set of destinations from the plurality of landmarks, the first current location, and the first current direction. A prompt module audibly prompts a driver to navigate the vehicle to the first set of destinations. A navigation module determines if the driver is navigating towards the first direction. In response to the driver not navigating the vehicle toward at least one destination of the first set of destinations, the navigation module may direct the identification module to identify a second current location and direction of the vehicle and the destination module to determine a second set of destinations.
US08566024B2 Navigation apparatus
A navigation apparatus includes a map data acquiring means 11a, 11, 12, and 5 for acquiring map data including data about roads for which whether or not a car pool lane is also provided is specified; a current position determining means 13, 14, 15, and 10 for determining a current position; and a route searching unit 130 for searching for a route from the current position determined by the current position determining means to a destination inputted by an input unit on the basis of the map data acquired by the map data acquiring means, and for, when a road where a car pool lane is also provided is included in a route acquired through the route search, presenting, as a recommended route, the route using the car pool lane if the distance over which the road will be traveled is equal to or longer than a predetermined value.
US08566019B2 Positioning apparatus and positioning method
A positioning apparatus includes: a first positioning unit that measures a position by receiving a signal; a second positioning unit that measures a position by autonomous navigation; and a memory unit that stores a positioning environment when the position is measured by the first positioning unit and the second positioning unit, wherein the first positioning unit and the second positioning unit measure the position based on the positioning environment.
US08566014B1 Discovery of public points of interest
Disclosed are various embodiments for discovery of public points of interest. Data identifying points of interest is obtained. Each point of interest is associated with a respective user and specifies a respective name and a respective geographic location. A public point of interest is determined based at least in part on a similarity of the respective names of a subset of the points of interest, a proximity of the respective geographic locations of the subset of the points of interest, and a number of different users associated with the subset of the points of interest.
US08566009B2 Apparatus and method for controlling travel of vehicles
A method for causing vehicles to travel improves work efficiency by minimizing stop time of the vehicles while avoiding deadlock, wherein reservation-requested routes are generated for the respective vehicles. The reservation-requested routes are parts of travel routes and between the current positions and travel stop positions, and are generated in so that a position not interfering with an interference region shown on a map and the terminal position of the reservation-requested routes for other vehicles becomes a terminal. Then, an already reserved route, is generated on conditions that the reservation-requested route for the vehicle does not interfere with the already reserved routes for the other vehicles and that deadlock does not occur. Then, the respective vehicles are controlled to travel from the current positions to the terminal positions of the already reserved routes.
US08566005B2 Fuel injection detecting device
An actual maximum fuel injection rate is computed based on a falling waveform and a rising waveform of the fuel pressure. The falling waveform represents the fuel pressure detected by a fuel sensor during a period in which the fuel pressure increases due to a fuel injection rate decrease. The rising waveform represents the fuel pressure detected by the fuel sensor during a period in which the fuel pressure decreases due to a fuel injection rate increase. The falling waveform and the rising waveform are modeled by modeling functions. A reference pressure is computed based on pressure during a specified time period before the falling waveform is generated. An intersection pressure is computed, at which the straight lines expressed by the modeling functions intersect to each other. The maximum fuel injection rate is computed based on a fuel pressure drop from the reference pressure to the intersection pressure.
US08565997B2 Driving assist device
A driving assist device includes a first control portion that controls a vehicle to carry out automated driving, and a second control portion that controls the vehicle to make a shift to manual driving, in which the vehicle travels on a basis of an driving operation by a driver, when canceling the automated driving, and changes a manner of canceling the automated driving in accordance with an elapsed time from a start of the automated driving.
US08565987B2 Shift controller for automatic transmission
A shift controller for an automatic transmission capable of automatically shifting up in a manual mode is provided. In the shift controller, a hysteresis between an automatic upshift line and a downshift permission line is set to be smaller as the accelerator opening degree decreases. As a result, when the accelerator opening degree is larger and therefore hunting is more likely to occur, it is possible to avoid an excessively small time interval between a downshift and an upshift. On the other hand, when the accelerator opening degree is smaller and therefore hunting is less likely to occur, a manual downshift permission region can be expanded to a higher rotational speed region, whereby a driver's manual downshift request can be satisfied in a higher vehicle speed region.
US08565985B2 Transmission control device and method for working vehicle
A transmission control device includes a load increase rate computation portion and a transmission control portion. The load increase rate computation portion is configured to compute an increase rate of a load acting on the work vehicle. The transmission control portion is configured to shift a high-speed gear down to a low-speed gear with producing a lock-up state in which a lock-up clutch is engaged when the load increase rate is less than a load increase rate threshold in shifting the high-speed gear down to the low-speed gear, and producing a torque converter state in which the lock-up clutch is disengaged when the load increase rate is equal to or greater than the load increase rate threshold in shifting the high-speed gear down to the low-speed gear.
US08565984B2 System and method of steering for a work vehicle towing a towed implement on lateral slopes
A steering system for a work vehicle towing a towed implement is described. A steering control unit is coupled to a location signal generation arrangement on the vehicle, a steering actuator, a memory for storing desired path data of the implement and a slope sensor for detecting a lateral inclination of the work vehicle or the implement. The steering control unit calculates a lateral offset compensation value to steer the work vehicle such that the implement is moved on the desired path and a slope offset compensation value based upon a signal from the tilt sensor to compensate for slope forces pulling the implement down a lateral slope. A steering signal is sent to the steering actuator based upon the lateral offset compensation value and the slope offset compensation value.
US08565982B2 Transportation apparatus and method for carrying a payload in a desired plane independent of 3D tilting of said apparatus
A transportation apparatus includes a payload receiving unit, a transportation body, and a compensation system arranged there between providing adjustment of a desired spatial relationship of a payload surface of the compensation unit. The compensation system has at least one of a first compensation unit and a second compensation unit for adjustment of the spatial relationship. The compensation units adjust the spatial relationship in different directions. Thus the compensation system maintains a desired orientation of the payload surface independent of changes of orientation of the transportation surface. Further, the compensation system substantially maintains a common point of gravity of the transportation apparatus including the payload by displacing the center of gravity of the payload receiving unit and the payload substantially opposite to a displacement of a center of gravity of the transportation apparatus. At least one of the compensation units are extendable from at least one end thereof during operation.
US08565980B2 Compensation of reduced braking effect of a hydraulic brake system for a land craft
The invention relates to a hydraulic brake system and a method for controlling a hydraulic brake system for a land vehicle having a predetermined holding capacity for hydraulic fluid and at least one wheel brake. The invention is characterized by detecting if a current holding capacity of the brake system has increased in relation to the predetermined holding capacity and, if so, by feeding hydraulic fluid to the at least one wheel brake in a controlled manner and an amount corresponding at least to the increase in capacity.
US08565979B2 System and method for stabilizing a single-track vehicle
A system for stabilizing a single-track vehicle including a front assembly and a rear assembly, said system comprising a robust controller including an inner loop which closes on a roll angular rate {dot over (χ)} of said rear assembly and reduces parametric uncertainty associated with said vehicle, and an outer loop which closes on a roll angle χ of said rear assembly, and wherein the robust controller outputs a steering torque signal for controlling a steering angle in said front assembly; a roll angle sensor for measuring the roll angle in the rear assembly; a roll rate gyro for measuring the roll angular rate in the rear assembly; and a motor for applying the steering angle to said front assembly responsive to the steering torque signal.
US08565975B2 Method and device for the control of a driver assistance system
A method and a device for controlling a driver assistance system using an LKS function of a vehicle, in which the LKS function is activated within predefinable boundary values and is deactivated outside these system boundaries. According to the invention, in response to the deactivation of the LKS function during cornering of the vehicle, the LKS function is transferred from a regulation to a control, in such a way that, during the cornering, the driver continues to be supported by a system torque in the transverse guidance of the vehicle at least over a certain stretch of path.
US08565971B2 High voltage battery cooling control technique for a vehicle
The present invention relates to a high voltage battery cooling control technique that improves the operational stability of a high voltage battery by decreasing the likelihood that the battery will overheat due to the indoor air temperature of the vehicle.
US08565966B2 Portable truck tester
A hand held portable truck safety equipment tester uses loading rack criteria to confirm proper operation of the truck but is contained in a small portable battery operated unit. This unit allows for correlation to a rack controller's test and includes direct readout via an LED screen showing the error condition. Additionally, the tester has the capability to test all types of trucks without the need for adapters to accommodate different connectors and allows for remote diagnostics. The tester automatically determines which type of sensor and what grounding system is used.
US08565965B2 Aircraft landing gear automated inspection for presence of internal oxygen contamination
A system for use in monitoring, measuring, recording, computing and transmitting the oxygen levels and identification of oxygen contamination within an aircraft telescopic landing gear strut. An oxygen sensor is mounted in relation to each of the landing gear struts as to monitor, recognize, measure and record the identification of oxygen within the telescopic landing gear struts. The amount of oxygen within each landing gear strut is measured and recorded and downloaded to the responsible aircraft maintenance department. By detecting the amount of oxygen in a strut, steps can be taken to purge the gas from the strut to minimize corrosion of strut components and to prevent internal combustion of the gas and oil in the strut.
US08565963B2 Method and system for remotely tracking vehicle-centric data and user-centric data
A system and method for tracking a vehicle-centric data and a user-centric data with respect to a vehicle. A vehicle-based device can be configured with a vehicle-based application in order to collect and cache the vehicle-centric data. Additionally, an existing vehicle data interface can provide such vehicle-centric data and other data. A GPS-enabled wireless communications device configured with a vehicle and user data tracking module can be interfaced with the vehicle-based device via a wireless technology in order to retrieve the vehicle-centric data with respect to the vehicle. The user-centric data can also be collected from the wireless communications device via a wireless application when the user is external to the vehicle. The vehicle-centric data and the user-centric-data can be then transmitted to a centralized server in order to track a historical and real time GPS location and navigation data.
US08565962B2 Rewriting system for a vehicle
A rewriting system comprises a plurality of electronic control units mounted on a vehicle, each of the plurality of electronic control units including a storage for storing control information, and a device for sending new control information to rewrite the control information stored in the storages of the plurality of electronic control units with the new control information. One of the plurality of electronic control units is configured to make a determination whether the rewriting in the other electronic control units has been completed in response to a completion of the rewriting in the one of the plurality of electronic control units, and make a notification of a result of the determination. Thus, the progress of the rewriting for a plurality of control units is automatically determined and notified to a user. The user can immediately recognize the progress of the rewriting work.
US08565961B2 Vehicular data recording apparatus
Each of a plurality of electronic control units (i.e., ECUs) of a vehicle control system has a memory for recording data regarding a system operation condition of the vehicle control system. When one of the ECUs detects an occurrence of a predetermined abnormal event, that ECU records data regarding the system operation condition of the vehicle control system, which is held by that ECU, in the memory of that ECU. Further, the detecting ECU notifies the other ECUs of the occurrence of the predetermined abnormal event. Accordingly, each of the remaining ECUs records data regarding the system operation condition of the vehicle control system held by each of them to its memory. In such manner, even if multiple ECUs are installed as the vehicle control system, a vehicular data recording apparatus is enabled to record required data at a time of occurrence of a predetermined event.
US08565957B2 Hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle includes: a catalytic device configured to be electrically heatable to purify exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine; a main power supply device that supplies the motor drive unit with power supply voltage; a power supply device provided for a catalyst, and receiving electric power from the main power supply device and supplying the catalytic device with electric power to heat the catalytic device; and a control device. The control device has a first control mode and a second control mode more immune to variation of the power supply voltage than the first control mode as modes applied to control the motor drive unit. If electric power supplied to the catalytic device from the power supply device for the catalyst is to be changed, the control device previously controls the motor drive unit in the second control mode.
US08565954B2 Vehicle motor temperature determination
Methods, systems, and vehicles are provided pertaining to the determination of a temperature of a vehicle motor having an ignition when the ignition is turned on following a period of time in which the ignition had been turned off. A memory stores a function having a boundary condition that comprises a prior temperature from when the ignition was turned off. A processor is coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to determine an amount of time for which the ignition has been turned on and determine the temperature of the motor using the function if the amount of time for which the ignition has been turned on is less than a predetermined threshold.
US08565953B2 Hybrid vehicle and method for controlling the same
A power supply system includes a main power storage device and a plurality of sub power storage devices. A converter is connected to a selected one of the sub power storage devices to convert voltage between the selected sub power storage device and an electric power feeding line bidirectionally. The sub power storage device undergoes a connection switching process, and when the last sub power storage device is currently used, then, in accordance with that sub power storage device's SOC and the vehicle's state, a request is generated to disconnect the sub power storage device and a relay is turned off. In doing so, if a process is currently performed for starting or stopping an engine, generating the request is refrained even if a decreased SOC is sensed. Similarly, if a process is performed to disconnect a sub power storage device, and therewhile a request is generated to start/stop the engine, starting the process performed for starting or stopping the engine is refrained.
US08565952B2 Forward-looking hybrid vehicle control strategy
A vehicle includes an engine, a power source, and a motor. The power source outputs electrical energy in accordance with an actual state of charge, and the motor generates electrical energy when provided with torque from the engine. A position sensor generates a route signal representing drive cycle data between a present location of the vehicle and a selected destination. A controller determines a reference state of charge of the power source at the present location from the drive cycle data and commands the engine to charge the power source if the actual state of charge is below the reference state of charge determined for the present location. A method includes receiving the selected destination, generating the route signal, determining the reference state of charge from the drive cycle data, and commanding the engine to charge the power source in accordance with the reference state of charge.
US08565951B2 Controller for AC electric vehicle
In a controller for an AC electric vehicle that includes a converter control unit controlling an operation of a PWM converter that converts an AC voltage inputted from an AC overhead line through a transformer into an DC voltage, arithmetic processing performed in the converter control unit is divided into at least first to sixth arithmetic processing blocks, the first to sixth arithmetic processing blocks are configured by an FPGA, and the first to third arithmetic processing blocks, and the fourth and fifth arithmetic processing blocks are configured to enable simultaneous parallel processing, respectively.
US08565949B2 Method of controlling a hybrid powertrain to ensure battery power and torque reserve for an engine start and hybrid powertrain with control system
A method includes determining an amount of power currently available from a battery for tractive torque as an amount of power stored in the battery less an amount of power required to power other vehicle components, and less an amount of power required to start the engine. An output torque limit when torque is provided only by the motor and power required to provide the output torque limit are determined based on test data. A maximum output torque is calculated by multiplying the amount of power determined to be currently available for tractive torque by a ratio of the output torque limit to the amount of power required to provide the output torque limit. The current output torque may be reduced at a predetermined rate until within a predetermined range of the lesser of the maximum output torque and the output torque limit if an engine start is requested.
US08565942B2 Method for determining the speed at which an aircraft breaks free of the ground effect
According to the invention, during take-off, the aircraft (AC) is given the tail strike attitude (θts) and the ailerons (6G, 6D) are deflected fully downwards.
US08565941B2 Method for compensation of gyroscopic forces of a rotor in a helicopter
In order to suppress induction of precession when the rotor (24, 26) of a helicopter is tilted relative to a fuselage (31), the tilt trajectory is supplemented by transverse components. The helicopter is of the type with a bendable, actuated joint (34) between the rotor and a fuselage. A controller (2) receives an input signal (4) from a steering device (1) and transforms this input signal in an output signal (7) for an actuating system (3) for movement in the joint. The controller calculates on the basis of the input signal an estimation for further input signals, and adds a transverse component to the input trajectory before sending the output trajectory (11).
US08565937B2 System, process and computer program product for issue communication and facilitating issue resolution
A system for communicating issues and facilitating resolution of the issues, wherein the issues affect a plurality of similar complex systems, the system being implemented over a computer network and comprising at least one first computer device, a second computer device and a third computer device, all of which are configured to be in communication with the computer network. The first computer devices are adapted to be used by at least one customer, and the second computer device is adapted to be used by an originating entity. The third computer device is configured to maintain a discussion-capable electronic media accessible to the first and second computer devices over the computer network. The electronic media is configured to have a plurality of issues and a plurality of comments posted thereon to facilitate resolving the issue.
US08565935B2 Lateral motion control apparatus for a vehicle
The lateral motion control apparatus calculates lateral motion control amounts for a plurality of control targets that operate cooperatively in order to change the lateral motion amount of the vehicle based on a target value for the lateral motion amount of the vehicle, and control the plurality of control targets based on the calculated lateral motion control amounts. Meanwhile, it is determined whether or not the control of the plurality of control targets is to be stopped. When it has been determined that the control of the plurality of control targets is to be stopped, lateral motion degeneration control amounts are determined for each of the plurality of control targets so that the lateral motion control amounts of the plurality of control targets degenerate starting at that time, and the plurality of control targets are controlled based on the determined lateral motion degeneration control amounts.
US08565925B2 System and method for injecting a fluid additive into a fluid dispensation system
A method for operating a fluid dispensation system is provided. The method includes receiving a first control signal indicating that a fluid dispensation device within the fluid dispensation system is active, and determining a fluid additive quantity based upon the identity of the fluid dispensation device. The method also includes activating a fluid additive injection system, where the fluid additive injection system injects the fluid additive into the fluid dispensation system in response to the activation. The method further includes receiving a second control signal from the fluid additive injection system when the fluid additive quantity for the zone has been injected into the fluid dispensation system, and deactivating the fluid additive dispensation system in response to the second control signal.
US08565919B2 Method, apparatus and system for use in processing wafers
The present embodiment provides for methods and systems for use in processing objects such as wafers, including polishing and/or grinding wafers. Some embodiments provide systems that include a front-end module and a processing module. The front end module couples with a storage device that stores objects for processing. The front-end module can comprise a single robot, a transfer station, and a plurality of end effectors. The processing module is coupled with the front-end module such that the single robot delivers objects from the storage device to the processing module. The processing module comprising a rotating table, and a spindle with a carrier configured to retrieve the delivered object and process the object on the rotating table.
US08565915B2 Pneumatic tube system recovery
A system and method provides for the recovery of carriers stranded within a pneumatic carrier system. Initially, unresolved transaction records generated during the transit of carrier within the system are identified for carrier recovery purposes. System handling information is identified from the transaction record. Based on this information, the system determines a putative location of each a carrier associated with a transaction record. The system operates a segment of the pneumatic system including the putative carrier location to confirm the presence or absence of a stranded carrier. If a carrier is identified within that segment of the system, the carrier is deemed recovered. The carrier is then delivered to the destination location in the transaction record.
US08565913B2 Apparatus and method for asset tracking
An apparatus and method for tracking the location of one or more assets, comprising an integrated system that identifies an asset, determines the time the asset is acquired by a conveying vehicle, determines the position, elevation and orientation of the asset at the moment it is acquired, determines the time the asset is deposited by the conveying vehicle, and determines the position, elevation and orientation of the asset at the time the asset is deposited, each position, elevation and orientation being relative to a reference plane. Mobile subsystems, each on a conveying vehicle, identify the location and orientation of that conveying vehicle using an optical position sensor unit viewing an array of optical position markers, determine the identity of the asset from a label, confirm acquisition of the asset, determine the elevation of the asset relative to the reference plane and communicate the tracking information to a fixed-base subsystem.
US08565912B2 Pick and place
A pick and place system including at least one input conveyor, at least one output conveyor, at least one pick and place robot and control circuitry. Available picking positions on an input conveyor at which a respective item can be picked are determined as well as available placing positions on an output conveyor at which a respective item can be placed. For the available picking positions and the available placing positions, a respective picking time and placing time is calculated, and the at least one robot is instructed to pick items at the picking positions and place the items at the placing positions in an order determined by the respective picking times and placing times.
US08565906B1 Audio processing in a social environment
Example embodiments herein include an audio manager that identifies at least one user in a social environment (e.g., multiplayer gaming environment). Each user in the social environment has a respective user music profile that contains audio attributes for various types of audio. The audio manager combines the user music profile from each user to form a group music profile. The audio manager further identifies a selection of audio segments to be rendered in the social environment that match the group music profile. Additionally, the audio manager processes the selection of audio segments against the audio attributes of at least one user to determine an audio segment to be rendered in the social environment. In one embodiment, the audio manager processes the selection of audio segments in accordance with a social value metric. In turn, the audio manager renders the audio segment in the social environment in accordance with the social value metric.
US08565905B2 Method and computer implemented apparatus for lighting experience translation
The invention relates to the translation of lighting experience, particularly to the translation of scripts for describing lighting experiences and provided for controlling of lighting devices in a lighting system. An embodiment of the invention provides a method for lighting experience translation by means of a computer, comprising the acts of—receiving an effect based script, which describes one or more light effects of the lighting experience on one or more locations in a view in an environment (S10),—receiving one or more location-effect control models, wherein a location-effect control model describes light effects being available on a location in the view in the environment (S12), and—translating the effect based script into controls for one or more virtual lighting devices by using the location effect control model (S14). This allows to design lighting infrastructure independent effect based scripts and to translate the light experience, described with such scripts, automated into controls for virtual lighting devices, which may then further processed for a concrete lighting infrastructure.
US08565903B2 Critical resource notification system and interface device
A system and device that communicates critical resource information is described. The resource notification system comprises a resource distributor, a resource notification server, and a networked interface device. The resource distributor generates a demand response action that is associated with a particular resource. The resource distributor is also communicatively coupled to a wide area network. The resource notification server, which is also communicatively coupled to the wide area network, receives and processes the demand response action and generates a demand response event signal that is communicated to a customer list. The networked interface device comprises at least one indicator. The networked interface device receives the demand response event signal that triggers at least one indicator corresponding to the demand response action generated by the resource distributor, wherein the indicator provides a real-time indication that corresponds to the usage of the particular resource.
US08565900B2 Low power signal transmission
A low-power implant system. The system includes an implant for implantation into a person, such as a cochlear implant or a middle ear implant. The implant is capable of communicating with a device via transmission of ultra wideband pulses. The device may be adapted to be worn external to the person, or may be a second implant. So as to conserve battery power, the transmitted ultra wideband pulses may have a low duty cycle of approximately 1/1000 or less. Power savings may also be realized by using time-gating amplifiers in the implant and/or device receiver.
US08565885B2 Ileal electrical stimulation
The disclosure is a method of treatment for obesity, in an individual in need thereof comprising positioning stimulatory electrodes in the distal small intestines or ileum, and administering electrical stimulation in trains of pulses or repetitive pulses, where the electrical stimulation is effective, at least in part in, stimulating the vagal afferent and efferent activity, of the distal small intestines or ileum, in the individual. The stimulation of the vagal afferent and efferent activity leads to the regulation of the ileal brake. Specifically, the electrical stimulation is provided in trains of pulses. Also, described is a method of treatment for functional gastrointestinal disease by ileal electrical stimulation. Further this invention provides a method of treatment for an eating disorder comprising administering ileal electrical stimulation effective, at least in part, in stimulating the vagal and sympathetic pathways. The stimulatory electrodes are placed by laparoscopic, endoscopic or surgical means.
US08565882B2 Control of a defibrillator and/or pacemaker
An electronic medical monitoring and treatment apparatus allows a person access to a medical professional (MP) who can monitor, diagnose and treat the person from a remote site. The apparatus includes a medical monitoring and treatment device (MMTD) coupled to an electronic adapter designed to communicate with a local, first transmitting/receiving (T/R) device which, in turn, is adapted to electronically communicate with a remote, second transmitting/receiving (T/R) device used by the MP. The MMTD may comprise a cardiac treatment circuit for effecting cardiac pacing and/or defibrillation and a cardiac signal circuit for receiving cardiac signals. The cardiac signals are (1) transmitted from the signal circuit to the second T/R device for evaluation by the MP, (2) the MP may transmit a control signal to the treatment circuit, and (3), in response thereto, the treatment circuit may generate one or more electrical pulses for treatment of the person.
US08565878B2 Accurate cardiac event detection in an implantable cardiac stimulus device
Methods, systems, and devices for signal analysis in an implanted cardiac monitoring and treatment device such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. In some illustrative examples, detected events are analyzed to identify changes in detected event amplitudes. When detected event amplitudes are dissimilar from one another, a first set of detection parameters may be invoked, and, when detected event amplitudes are similar to one another, a second set of detection parameters may be invoked. Additional methods determine whether the calculated heart rate is “high” or “low,” and then may select a third set of detection parameters for use when the calculated heart rate is high.
US08565876B2 Method and apparatus for treatment of cardiac tachyarrhythmias
Method and apparatus for preventing heart rhythm disturbances by recording cardiac electrical activity, measuring beat-to-beat variability in the morphology of electrocardiographic waveforms, and using the measured beat-to-beat variability to control the delivery of electrical impulses to the heart during the absolute refractory period.
US08565862B2 Optical imaging method for tissue characterization
There is provided a method for detecting and characterizing abnormalities within biological tissues. The method involves the characterization of the optical properties of the tissue to derive relative values of physiological properties between normal and suspicious regions of the tissue. In some aspects of the invention optical imaging and other imaging modalities are combined to detect and identify a disease state of the tissue.
US08565861B2 Optical inspection device, electromagnetic wave detection method, electromagnetic wave detection device, organism observation method, microscope, endoscope, and optical tomographic image generation device
An optical inspection device 1, comprising a light generation means 2, a light irradiation means 3 irradiating an object to be inspected 4 with light generated from the light generation means 2 and a photodetection means 6 photoelectrically converting signal light obtained from the object to be inspected 4 through irradiation of light by the light irradiation means 3, and inspecting the object to be inspected 4 based on output from the photodetection means 6, wherein a light amplification means 5 amplifying signal light obtained from the object to be inspected 4 is provided. There is thus provided an optical inspection device capable of photoelectrically converting signal light from the object to be inspected with high sensitivity and promptly with its inexpensive configuration without increasing the intensity of light with which the object to be inspected is irradiated and without using an expensive low-noise and high-sensitivity photodetector.
US08565859B2 Method and system for image based device tracking for co-registration of angiography and intravascular ultrasound images
A method and system for co-registration of angiography data and intra vascular ultrasound (IVUS) data is disclosed. A vessel branch is detected in an angiogram image. A sequence of IVUS images is received from an IVUS transducer while the IVUS transducer is being pulled back through the vessel branch. A fluoroscopic image sequence is received while the IVUS transducer is being pulled back through the vessel branch. The IVUS transducer and a guiding catheter tip are detected in each frame of the fluoroscopic image sequence. The IVUS transducer detected in each frame of the fluoroscopic image sequence is mapped to a respective location in the detected vessel branch of the angiogram image. Each of the IVUS images is registered to a respective location in the detected vessel branch of the angiogram image based on the mapped location of the IVUS transducer detected in a corresponding frame of the fluoroscopic image sequence.
US08565855B2 MRI method
A method of operating a magnetic resonance imaging scanner for imaging the heart of a patient comprising inducing apnoea in the patient; sensing an electrical heart waveform; in response thereto moving the chest wall of the patient to a desired location; and triggering the scanner to image.
US08565843B1 Portable device shell
A portable device shell, comprising an adapter assembly comprising a first cavity to snugly receive a portable electronic device and a control assembly comprising a second cavity to snugly receive the adapter assembly. Integrated electronics act in concert when the adapter assembly snugly receives the portable electronic device and the control assembly snugly receives the adapter assembly. An infrared emitter transmitter/receiver, radio frequency and/or a wireless medium control and receive status from third party devices. The control assembly comprises a battery as a power source. The portable electronic device is a hybrid mobile device, or having or serving as a phone and/or mobile communications platform, and comprises a first connector port and a screen.
US08565841B2 Cell phone and program for controlling broadcast receiving function of cell phone
The cell phone has a plurality of batteries for supplying power according to their use. When the power of a battery is nearly depleted while the user is viewing a TV program, the cell phone informs the user of that fact to restrict the viewing of the TV program.
US08565837B2 Hands free calling system for telematics users using a network-based pre-pay system
The described invention provides a method and system for allowing subscribers of a telematics service provider (TSP) to make hands-free phone calls within their vehicles through a telematics unit over a network or hardware-based pre-pay system, wherein the telematics unit or a wireless network provider associated with the TSP controls the ingoing and outgoing hands-free calling (HFC) processes. The wireless network provider, through its system at a remote call center or through the telematics unit, may determine whether the subscriber has subscribed to the TSP's HFC service, whether the subscriber has a sufficient remaining balance to initiate, receive or continue a call, and whether a user of the telematics unit is “roaming.” When a user attempts to make or receive a call through the telematics unit, the wireless network provider or the telematics unit may handle the incoming or outgoing call processing, and may further provide subscriber account balance notifications to the user.
US08565825B2 Controller for selecting antenna for multiple-input/multiple-output communication
A base station apparatus for performing radio communication with a mobile station in a cell having a plurality of sectors performs a MIMO transmission using an antenna selected from among the antennas provided in each of two sectors when the mobile station moves in the vicinity of the boundary between the sectors. A base station apparatus for performing the radio communication with a mobile station in a cell having no sector structure performs a MIMO transmission using two or more antennas selected from among the antennas when the mobile station moves.
US08565822B2 Data communication setting control method based on subscriber identification module and portable device for supporting the same
A method and a portable device that support the control of a data communication setting are provided. The portable terminal includes a Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card interface into which the SIM is inserted. The device further includes a control unit, a memory unit, and a radio frequency unit. The control unit extracts Mobile Country Code/Mobile Network Code (MCC/MNC) information from the inserted SIM, determines data communication setting information corresponding to the MCC/MNC information from a policy table containing the data communication setting information for each MCC/MNC information, and establishes a data communication by using the determined data communication setting information. The memory unit stores the policy table, and the radio frequency unit performs the established data communication with a specific service operator network related to the SIM under the control of the control unit.
US08565818B1 Broadband wireless router
A communication device is provided. The communication device comprises a short range radio transceiver, a cellular radio transceiver, a speaker, and a microphone. The short range radio transceiver wirelessly receives dialed digits, the device establishes a voice call via the cellular radio transceiver based on the dialed digits, the cellular radio transceiver transmits voice received from the microphone, and the device presents voice received via the cellular radio transceiver over the speaker.
US08565817B2 Communication system
A docking station for use with a wireless communication device is provided. The docking station includes a base, a handset and a transmission device. The base includes a wireless communication device connector that connects to the wireless communication device. The handset connects to the base. The transmission device is disposed on the base. The handset can be enabled by the wireless communication device through the transmission device so that the handset can be used to communicate with others. When the handset is in operation, the wireless communication device can be operated simultaneously.
US08565813B2 Apparatus and method for amplifying power in mobile terminal
A transmission apparatus and a method thereof in a mobile terminal are provided. More particularly, an apparatus and a method for securing a space of a mobile terminal and reducing manufacturing costs by integrating power amplifying units into one module in the mobile terminal that supports a multi-mode are provided. The power amplifier of a mobile terminal includes a first amplifying unit and a second amplifying unit. The first amplifying unit defines a frequency of a GSM quad band as a low frequency band and a high frequency band, and then amplifies a signal of the low frequency band of the GSM quad band. The second amplifying unit amplifies a signal of the high frequency band of the GSM quad band and a signal of a TD-SCDMA band.
US08565812B1 Communication device
The mobile phone comprising a voice communication implementer, a multiple language displaying implementer, and a mobile phone updating implementer.
US08565806B2 Real time transmission power control
Controlling the output power of a radio transmitter includes operating the transmitter at an initial power level setting and making an output power measurement. The measured value is adjusted by a desired incremental value and the adjusted value is then compared with the power of the original baseband signal to obtain a representation of what the gain should be if the radio transmitter power is properly adjusted to achieve the desired incremental value. The output power of the radio transmitter is than actually adjusted, and the actual gain is measured. The difference between the actual gain and the representation of what the gain should be if the radio transmitter power is properly adjusted is used to determine a further power adjustment of the radio transmitter that will reduce the difference.
US08565796B2 Method and system for transmission and display of rich-media alerts
There is provided a method and system of generating a rich-media message using a short message service (SMS) message. In one aspect, the method comprises encoding data and rich-media content information to generate an encoded rich-media message, and formatting the encoded rich-media message into a rich-media SMS message. In one aspect, the method includes transmitting the rich-media SMS over a network. In another aspect, the method includes receiving the rich-media SMS by a mobile device, decoding the SMS, and displaying the message. The method may include obtaining rich-media content from a server. In one embodiment, a system for communicating a rich-media message to a mobile device comprises an alerts generator configured to encode a rich-media message and format the message into a rich-media SMS, a content server configured to provide rich-media content to a mobile device configured to decode and display the rich-media SMS.
US08565795B2 Method and apparatus for allocating paging areas
A method for allocating paging areas includes: determining a basic paging area currently visited by a User Equipment (UE); and allocating a paging area to this UE according to a history record of motion trace of UEs located in the basic paging area currently visited by this UE. An apparatus for allocating paging areas is disclosed.
US08565788B2 Method and system for obtaining location of a mobile device
Method and platform for providing the location of a first mobile device to a second device in which the second device generates a query for the location of the first device which is in the form of an SMS or push e-mail message and which is directed to the first device. Upon receipt of the query, the first device initiates a determination of its location, either by itself or by providing information to a central server, and the determined location of the first device is then directed to the second device, either directly from the central server or via the first device. The central server may direct a transmission of the location of the first device to the second device in an SMS message.
US08565786B2 Estimating the location of a wireless terminal based on signal path impairment
A technique for estimating the location of a wireless terminal at an unknown location in a geographic region is disclosed. The technique is based on the recognition that there are traits of electromagnetic signals that are dependent on topography, the receiver, the location of the transmitter, and other factors. For example, if a particular radio station is known to be received strongly at a first location and weakly at a second location, and a given wireless terminal at an unknown location is receiving the radio station weakly, it is more likely that the wireless terminal is at the second location than at the first location.
US08565780B2 Caller identification with caller geographical location
Caller identification with caller geographical location is provided. The caller's geographical location represents the actual or approximate geographical location of the caller at the time the call is placed rather than the billing or exchange location. Additional information can be requested based on the caller's geographical location, such as directions, nearby sites of interest, and traffic reports. A call recipient can request that this additional information be sent to the caller. For privacy purposes and security, a caller can limit the amount of information that is transmitted to call recipients.
US08565774B2 Serving-grant allocation method for high-speed uplink packet access systems
The present invention provides a serving-grant allocation method for a high-speed uplink packet access system. It includes these steps: a. Transmission of the serving-grant initial allocation message to mobile subscribers via network; b. The mobile subscriber decides whether setting the stored-secondary-grant is needed based on the initial allocation message description. If it is needed, then set the stored-secondary-grant to the value indicated in the aforementioned initial allocation message. The present invention solves problems such as the mobile subscriber can not allocate stored-secondary-grant during wireless channel allocation, or the primary/secondary grant can only allocate one out of the two, and the subsequent process issues that occur as a result of stored-secondary-grant not being set up during the initial allocation with the existing technology. The present invention effectively enhances the usage of the wireless channel and network's capacity to exercise control over mobile subscribers, thereby reducing system complexity, and improving system performance.
US08565770B2 Method and arrangements for an event triggered DRX cycle adjustment
The invention relates to methods and arrangements for an event triggered DRX cycle adjustment. A user equipment located in a serving cell of a mobile communications network monitors downlink communication at predetermined time intervals when operating in discontinuous reception mode. The user equipment also performs communication parameter measurements regarding at least one of the serving cell and one or more neighbor cells. After the occurrence of a first event, the user equipment sends at least one of measurement data and a first event report to the network. The sending is triggered by the occurrence of the first event. The monitoring is caused to be performed at shortened time intervals after the occurrence of a second event, wherein the second event is defined to indicate a higher probability of receiving a handover command than the first event.
US08565769B2 Method and system for managing neighboring cell information
The present disclosure discloses a method and a system for managing neighboring cell information. The method includes: a radio network controller sends a notification message to user equipment (UE), wherein the notification message includes an indication which notifies the UE to measure inter-frequency cells which are not in an inter-frequency neighboring cell list or inter-system cells which are not in an inter-system neighboring cell list; after receiving the notification message, the UE measures the inter-frequency cells, which are not in the inter-frequency neighboring cell list, indicated in the notification message, or measures the inter-system cells, which are not in the inter-system neighboring cell list, indicated in the notification message, and reports the measurement result. In the present disclosure, the UE reports a measurement result to the network side after measuring the cells which are not in the neighboring cell list, to improve the capability of the network side to obtain neighboring cell information. Based on the measurement result reported by the UE, the network side decides inter-frequency handover or inter-system handover, so that the UE performs handover in time and the call drop is prevented effectually.
US08565765B2 Method and apparatus for determining the country where a mobile device has acquired service
An apparatus and method for identifying a serving country using at least one system specific parameter comprising extracting the at least one system specific parameter from a forward link signal; determining whether the at least one system specific parameter maps to a unique country; and identifying the serving country for a call.
US08565764B2 Telecommunications network access rejection
A method of controlling an attach procedure of a device 1 to a telecommunications network 140 following receipt of an attach rejection from the telecommunications network, the method including assessing the authenticity of the attach rejection, and selecting a criterion for performing a subsequent attach attempt by the device to the network in dependence upon the authenticity assessment. The authenticity may be assessed by determining whether the rejection was received by an authenticated communication link or a signed message. The authenticity may also be assessed by checking that the cause of the reject is consistent with information held by the device. The selected criterion may be power cycling of the device or the passage of a time period.