最新美国发明专利
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US08700932B2 Method for on-demand energy savings by lowering power usage of at least one storage device in a multi-tiered storage system
Embodiments of the invention relate to dynamic power management of storage volumes and disk arrays in a storage subsystem to mitigate loss of performance resulting from the power management. The volumes and arrays are prioritized, and in real-time power is selectively reduced in response to both the prioritization and an energy savings goal. A feedback loop is provided to dynamically measure associated power gain based upon a lowering of power consumption, and device selection may be adjusted based upon received feedback.
US08700929B1 Load control in a data center
A method of controlling power usage in a data center includes monitoring a power usage of a plurality of computers in the data center, generating a signal indicating that the power usage is within a threshold of a maximum power capacity, and in response to the signal, adjusting performance of at least one computer in the plurality of computers.
US08700923B2 Apparatus and method for modular dynamically power managed power supply and cooling system for computer systems, server applications, and other electronic devices
Network architecture, computer system and/or server, circuit, device, apparatus, method, and computer program and control mechanism for managing power consumption and workload in computer system and data and information servers. Further provides power and energy consumption and workload management and control systems and architectures for high-density and modular multi-server computer systems that maintain performance while conserving energy and method for power management and workload management. Dynamic server power management and optional dynamic workload management for multi-server environments is provided by aspects of the invention. Modular network devices and integrated server system, including modular servers, management units, switches and switching fabrics, modular power supplies and modular fans and a special backplane architecture are provided as well as dynamically reconfigurable multi-purpose modules and servers. Backplane architecture, structure, and method that has no active components and separate power supply lines and protection to provide high reliability in server environment.
US08700916B2 Utilizing physically unclonable functions to derive device specific keying material for protection of information
A device specific key is generated within an electronic device by providing a challenge to a physically unclonable function (PUF) structure integrated within the electronic device, where the PUF structure outputs a specific response based upon a specific challenge provided to the PUF structure. The PUF response is provided to a cryptographic module integrated within the electronic device, and a device specific key is generated by the cryptographic module utilizing a cryptographic key generation algorithm. The device specific key is generated based upon a combination of input data including the PUF response and data that is specific to the electronic device.
US08700911B2 Authentication system and method
An authentication system comprises a sensor for detecting a fingerprint and a doodle drawn by the user. The fingerprint, or other biometric information, is distorted in accordance with the doodle to provide distorted biometric information that is referred to as a doodleprint. The user can use different doodles on different systems, and if the doodleprint is compromised, can change the doodle to create a different doodleprint.
US08700908B2 System and method for managing secure information within a hybrid portable computing device
A method and system for managing secure information within a portable computing device are disclosed. The portable computing device includes a program module for communicating with a secure element that is part of the portable computing device. The secure element may receive messages utilizing the decrypted crypto keys derived from a non-padded cipher in order to establish a secure communications channel. The secure element may store at least one of a substantial encryption key for server authentication and a substantial encryption key for decrypting encrypted data stored locally within the portable computing device. If an incorrect password is entered after a predetermined number of times, the secure element may activate security measures which may permanently disable the secure element. To establish secure communications between the secure element and a CPU of the portable computing device, a password based encryption algorithm utilizing a non-padded cipher may be employed.
US08700903B2 Streamlined CSR generation, certificate enrollment, and certificate delivery
The process of acquiring SSL certificates for enterprise SSL customers is improved by reducing the number of steps used to acquire the SSL certificate and streamlining the process. An on-line CSR generator on the certificate enrollment form is used to submit the customer information (i.e. Common Name, Organizational Unit, Organization, City/Locality, State/Province, and Country Code) and generate the CSR. By making the CSR generation part of the enrollment process, the administrator can use the same enrollment form to submit the customer information along with the contact information pertinent to the enterprise.
US08700902B2 Methods and apparatus to certify digital signatures
Methods and apparatus to certify digital signatures are disclosed. An example method includes receiving a request to certify a digital signature from a user, receiving information about a physical characteristic of the user, comparing the information about the physical characteristic to stored physical characteristic information, and based on the comparison, at least one of certifying the digital signature based on the comparison or requesting certification of the digital signature based on the comparison.
US08700896B1 Techniques for automatic management of file system encryption drivers
Techniques for automatic management of file system encryption drivers are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a method for automatic management of file system encryption drivers comprising receiving a data access request at a first level encryption driver, checking an encryption indicator to identify an encryption method corresponding to the data access request, determining, using at least one computer processor, whether the data access request is to be handled at the first level encryption driver based at least in part on the identified encryption method; allowing the data access request to proceed to the first level encryption driver in the event the data access request is to be handled by the first level encryption driver; redirecting the data access request to a second level encryption driver in the event the data access request is to be handled by a second level encryption driver, and returning a result to the data access request to a requestor while ensuring that returned data is handled by an appropriate level encryption driver on a return path.
US08700889B2 System and method of sharing web page that represents health information
A method of displaying health information of a user, the method including: monitoring if a sharing request for a health information of a user is made by an external device, which provides a web page representing the health information of the user in the form of an image; downloading a captured image of the web page from the external device if the sharing request for the health information of the user is made; and displaying the downloaded captured image.
US08700884B2 Single-instruction multiple-data vector permutation instruction and method for performing table lookups for in-range index values and determining constant values for out-of-range index values
A processor in a data processing system executes a permutation instruction which identifies a first source register, at least one other source register, and a destination register. The first source register stores at least one in-range index value for the at least one other source register and at least one out-of-range index value for the at least one other source register. The at least one other source register stores a plurality of vector element values, wherein each in-range index value indicates which vector element value of the at least one other source register is to be stored into a corresponding vector element of the destination register. Each out-of-range index value is used to indicate which one of at least two predetermined constant values is to be stored into a corresponding vector element of the destination register. Partial table lookups using a permutation instruction shortens the time required to retrieve data.
US08700883B1 Memory access techniques providing for override of a page table
A memory access technique that provides for overriding a translation lookaside buffer and page table data structure, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, includes selectively translating a virtual address directly to a physical address utilizing an adjustment in a context specifier, or translating the virtual address to the physical address utilizing a translation lookaside buffer or page table data structure.
US08700878B2 Event triggered memory mapped access
In one or more embodiments, a data processing system can include at least one core capable of executing instructions of an instruction set architecture and a triggered memory map access (tMMA) system coupled to the at least one core. The tMMA system can receive one or more events and, in response, perform one or more actions. For example, the actions can include transactions which can include a write to a an address of the memory map, a read from an address of the memory map, a read followed by write to two respective addresses of the memory map, and/or a fetch transaction. A result of a transaction (e.g., data read, data written, error, etc.) can be used in generating a trace message. For example, the tMMA system can generate a trace message that includes the result of the transaction and send the trace message to a trace message bus.
US08700877B2 Address mapping for a parallel thread processor
A method for thread address mapping in a parallel thread processor. The method includes receiving a thread address associated with a first thread in a thread group; computing an effective address based on a location of the thread address within a local window of a thread address space; computing a thread group address in an address space associated with the thread group based on the effective address and a thread identifier associated with a first thread; and computing a virtual address associated with the first thread based on the thread group address and a thread group identifier, where the virtual address is used to access a location in a memory associated with the thread address to load or store data.
US08700872B2 Information processing system, reader/writer, information processing apparatus, access control management method and program
There is provided an information processing system having a reader/writer and an information processing apparatus. The reader/writer include a processing section for executing service processing, a processing completion determining section for determining completion of the processing, a control information generating section for generating control information, depending on the determination result and a control information transmitting section for transmitting the control information, and the information processing apparatus includes an internal memory having an access control area, an in-chip communication section for receiving the control information, an internal memory managing section for storing the received control information in the internal memory, a control information obtaining section for obtaining the control information from the internal memory and an access control managing section for setting the access control for the access control area based on the control information.
US08700865B1 Compressed data access system and method
A shared resource management system and method are described. In one embodiment a shared resource management system includes a plurality of engines, a shared resource, and a shared resource management unit. In one exemplary implementation the shared resource is a memory and the shared resource management unit is a memory management unit (MMU). The plurality of engines perform processing. The shared resource supports the processing. For example, a memory stores information and instructions for the engines. The shared resource management unit manages memory operations and handles access requests associated with compressed data.
US08700857B2 Optimizing memory copy routine selection for message passing in a multicore architecture
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method to obtain topology information regarding a system including at least one multicore processor, provide the topology information to a plurality of parallel processes, generate a topological map based on the topology information, access the topological map to determine a topological relationship between a sender process and a receiver process, and select a given memory copy routine to pass a message from the sender process to the receiver process based at least in part on the topological relationship. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08700854B2 Managing unmodified tracks maintained in both a first cache and a second cache
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for managing unmodified tracks maintained in both a first cache and a second cache. The first cache has unmodified tracks in the storage subject to Input/Output (I/O) requests. Unmodified tracks are demoted from the first cache to a second cache. An inclusive list indicates unmodified tracks maintained in both the first cache and a second cache. An exclusive list indicates unmodified tracks maintained in the second cache but not the first cache. The inclusive list and the exclusive list are used to determine whether to promote to the second cache an unmodified track demoted from the first cache.
US08700851B2 Apparatus and method for information processing enabling fast access to program
A main memory stores cache blocks obtained by dividing a program. At a position in a cache block where a branch to another cache block is provided, an instruction is embedded for activating a branch resolution routine for performing processing, such as loading of a cache block of the branch target. A program is loaded into a local memory in units of cache blocks, and the cache blocks are serially stored in first through nth banks, which are sections provided in the storage area. Management of addresses in the local memory or processing for discarding a copy of a cache block is performed with reference to an address translation table, an inter-bank reference table, and a generation number table.
US08700848B2 Data exchange between protected memory cards
There is provided a method for transferring data from a first memory card to a second memory card, each memory card allowing reading and/or writing access upon verification of an allocated credential. An exemplary method comprises providing the credentials allocated to the memory cards to a managing device. The exemplary method also comprises receiving in the managing device data from the first memory card and providing to the second memory card the credential allocated to the second memory card by the managing device. The exemplary method additionally comprises forwarding the data from the managing device to the second memory card and storing the data in the second memory card after having successfully verified said credential in the second memory card.
US08700840B2 Nonvolatile memory with write cache having flush/eviction methods
A portion of a nonvolatile memory is partitioned from a main multi-level memory array to operate as a cache. The cache memory is configured to store at less capacity per memory cell and finer granularity of write units compared to the main memory. In a block-oriented memory architecture, the cache has multiple functions, not merely to improve access speed, but is an integral part of a sequential update block system. Decisions to archive data from the cache memory to the main memory depend on the attributes of the data to be archived, the state of the blocks in the main memory portion and the state of the blocks in the cache portion.
US08700839B2 Method for performing static wear leveling on flash memory
A method for performing a static wear leveling on a flash memory is disclosed. Accordingly, a static wear leveling unit is disposed with a block reclamation unit of either a flash translation layer or a native file system in the flash memory, and utilizes less memory space to trace a distribution status of block leveling cycles of each physical block of the flash memory. Based on the distribution record of the block leveling cycles, the number of the leveling cycles less than a premeditated threshold would be found while the system idles. Then the static wear leveling unit requests the block reclamation unit to level the found blocks. Before leveling the found block, the rarely updated data is compelled to move from one block to another block which is leveled frequently, whereby accurate wear leveling cycles for the blocks can be averaged extremely.
US08700837B1 System and method of signal processing engines with programmable logic fabric
A high performance field programmable gate array is described with one or more signal processing engines coupled to a programmable logic fabric. Each signal processing engine includes a signal processing unit for performing specifying tasks and a bus-based configurable connection box for routing a bus-based input to a bus-based output. The signal processing unit has a floating point unit (FPU)/multiply accumulate (MAC) for computation and register files for storing information. The programmable logic fabric is coupled to the one or more signal processing engines for routing of information between the signal processing engines.
US08700834B2 Systems and methods for an enhanced controller architecture in data storage systems
Disclosed herein is a controller architecture that pairs a controller with a NVM (non-volatile memory) storage system over a high-level, high speed interface such as PCIe. In one embodiment, the NVM storage system includes a bridge that communicates with the controller via the high-level interface, and controls the NVM via an interface (e.g., ONFI). The controller is provided a rich set of physical level of controls over individual elements of the NVM. In one embodiment, the controller is implemented in a higher powered processor that supports advanced functions such as mapping, garbage collection, wear leveling, etc. In one embodiment, the bridge is implemented in a lower powered processor and performs basic signal processing, channel management, basic error correction functions, etc. This labor division provides the controller physical control of the NVM over a fast, high-level interface, resulting in the controller managing the NVM at both the page and block level.
US08700831B2 Automated classification of computer configuration using rule set
A method, computer system and computer program product for generating a configuration status of a computer is provided. A method for generating a configuration status of a computer includes reading a plurality of configuration items of the computer and executing a plurality of rules upon the configuration items that were read, wherein each rule comprises an if-portion including at least one configuration item and a then-portion including an action for storing a configuration status value if the at least one configuration item of the if-portion matches the configuration items that were read. The method can further includes executing an algorithm that reads each of the configuration status values that were stored responsive to executing the plurality of rules and processes the configuration status values so as to produce a final configuration status of the computer and storing a record indicating the final configuration status of the computer.
US08700825B1 Heterogeneous high-speed serial interface system with phase-locked loop architecture and clock distribution system
One embodiment relates to an integrated circuit having a plurality of four-channel serial interface modules. Each of the plurality of four-channel serial interface modules includes a first physical medium attachment (PMA) channel circuit, a second PMA channel circuit adjacent to the first PMA channel circuit, a third PMA channel circuit adjacent to the second PMA channel circuit, a fourth PMA channel circuit adjacent to the third PMA channel circuit, and at least one phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit which is programmably coupled to each of the first, second, third and fourth PMA channel circuits. Other embodiments and features are also disclosed.
US08700824B2 Adjustable buffer sizing for concurrent writing to tape
Data is buffered for concurrent writing to tape. For a magnetic tape drive having a magnetic head with multiple sets of transducers; a drive mechanism configured to pass a magnetic tape past the magnetic head; interfaces from two different hosts; and at least one buffer configured to buffer data; and a control; the buffering comprises receiving data from two different hosts at the interfaces; buffering the received data in separate buffer space of the buffer(s) associated with each host, and adjustably size the separate buffer space for each host in accordance with a data transfer rate of the host associated with the separate buffer space; and concurrently writing data from the separate buffer spaces with the magnetic head to separate partitions of the magnetic tape.
US08700823B2 Software driver interconnect framework
A computer implemented method to transfer data from a data source to a data sink is provided. The method includes the steps of allocating a first buffer to the data source and locking the first buffer so as to enable only the data source to transfer data to the first buffer. The method further includes the steps of unlocking the first buffer and granting access to the data sink to read from the first buffer. The method also includes the steps of allocating a second buffer to the data source, locking the second buffer and enabling the data source to write data to the second buffer while enabling the data sink to read data from the first buffer, thereby pipelining data transfer from the data source to the data sink.
US08700813B2 Host-based messaging framework for PCIE device management
A method of routing data in an information handling system can include receiving a notification from a management controller at a basic input/output system (BIOS) that includes a system management interrupt (SMI) handler. The a notification can indicate that the management controller has a data packet bound for a peripheral component interconnect express input/output (PCIe I/O) device coupled to a secondary processor. The method can include generating a system management interrupt at the information handling system via the BIOS SMI handler in response to the notification. The method can also include retrieving the data packet from the management controller via the BIOS SMI handler and sending a payload associated with the data packet from the BIOS SMI handler to the PCIe I/O device.
US08700801B2 Dynamically generating application-layer traffic optimization protocol maps
In general, techniques are described for using routing information obtained by operation of network routing protocols to dynamically generate network and cost maps for an application-layer traffic optimization (ALTO) service. For example, an ALTO server of an autonomous system (AS) receives routing information from routers of the AS by listening for routing protocol updates outputted by the routers and uses the received topology information to dynamically generate a network map of PIDs that reflects a current topology of the AS and/or of the broader network that includes the AS. Additionally, the ALTO server dynamically calculates inter-PID costs using received routing information that reflects current link metrics. The ALTO server then assembles the inter-PID costs into a cost map that the ALTO server may provide, along with the network map, to clients of the ALTO service.
US08700799B2 Methods, devices and systems with improved zone merge operation by operating on a switch basis
Methods, devices and systems for improved zone merge operations are disclosed. Two connected switches are arbitrated as an initiator and a receiver. The merge operation is initiated only by the initiator on an initiator/receiver inter-switch link. The initiator may initiate a merge request and the receiver may perform the computation of the difference between the old and the new zone. Either the whole configuration or only the differences are communicated between the switches. The merges may be done on a connected switch basis, not on a connected port basis. Only the principal ports in the principal inter-switch-link perform the merge operation. All the remaining ports, i.e. the non-principal ports, adopt the merge result of the principal ports. The zone information may also be cached on each switch such that merge calculations need not be performed again when a merge operation with the same configuration occurs in the future.
US08700791B2 Synchronization of haptic effect data in a media transport stream
Haptic information in a series of frames of a media transport stream is identified and time stamps corresponding thereto are determined in accordance with a master time code signal embedded in the media transport stream. Each media transport stream frame containing haptic information is subsequently assigned a time stamp so that it will be used to activate an actuator at a proper time responsive to the time stamp to generate a haptic effect in accordance with the haptic information.
US08700790B1 Automatic multimedia upload for publishing data and multimedia content
Disclosed herein is a method and system for utilizing a digital data capture device in conjunction with a Bluetooth (BT) enabled mobile device for publishing data and multimedia content on one or more websites automatically or with minimal user intervention. A client application is provided on the BT enabled mobile device. In the absence of inbuilt BT capability, a BT communication device is provided on the digital data capture device. The BT communication device is paired with the BT enabled mobile device to establish a connection. The client application detects capture of data and multimedia content on the digital data capture device and initiates transfer of the captured data, multimedia content, and associated files. The digital data capture device transfers the captured data, multimedia content, and the associated files to the client application. The client application automatically publishes the transferred data and multimedia content on one or more websites.
US08700787B2 Data providing system and data providing apparatus
A data providing system is provided with a data providing apparatus, a data utilizing apparatus configured to be connected with the data providing apparatus in a communicable manner, and a communication apparatus configured to be connected with the data providing apparatus in a communicable manner. The data utilizing apparatus sends an identification information-sending request to the data providing apparatus, outputs identification information sent from the data providing apparatus, sends the identification information to the data providing apparatus, and utilizes data sent from the data providing apparatus. The communication apparatus allows a user to input the identification information, sends the input identification information, and allows the user to disconnect a communication session with the data providing apparatus. The data providing apparatus sends the identification information to the data utilizing apparatus in accordance with the identification information-sending request sent from the data utilizing apparatus, stores the sent identification information, and sends data to the data utilizing apparatus on a condition that the identification information sent from the communication apparatus is being stored, and that the identification information sent from the data utilizing apparatus is received during a communication session with the communication apparatus.
US08700781B2 Automated processing of service requests using structured messaging protocols
A method for processing an incoming message in substantially real-time is provided. The method may include receiving the incoming message in response to a condition associated with a client device. The incoming message may be processed using a message handler and an approved rule. The approved rule may be operatively associated with an approved message structure that is compatible with a backend system. The processed message may be provided to the backend system in the approved message structure. The method may also include sending a reply message to a destination.
US08700778B2 Provisioning and redundancy for RFID middleware servers
The present invention provides for the provisioning and redundancy of RFID middleware servers. Middleware servers can be automatically provisioned and RFID device/middleware server associations can be automatically updated. Some implementations of the invention provide for automatic detection of middleware server malfunctions. Some such implementations provide for automated provisioning and automated updating of RFID device/middleware server associations, whether a middleware server is automatically brought online or is manually replaced. Changes and reassignments of the RFID device populations may be accommodated.
US08700770B2 Multi-modal communication using a session specific proxy server
A method and apparatus for multi-modal communication includes a controller (236) operably coupled to at least one multi-modal session proxy server (226). On a per multi-modal session basis, the controller (236) provides the multi-modal session proxy server (226) with a multi-modal proxy identifier (138). The multi-modal proxy identifier (138) is then provided to at least one browser with a per session multi-modal proxy evaluator (220) having a browser proxy identifier (140) wherein the browser proxy identifier (140) is evaluated in view of the multi-modal proxy identifier (138). The multi-modal session proxy server (226) then receives an information request (231) from the browser with per session multi-modal proxy evaluator (220) wherein the requested information is fetched from a content server (240). When the requested information is retrieved, a multi-modal synchronization coordinator (122) notifies the other browser with per session multi-modal proxy evaluator (232), via a multi-modal synchronization interface (234).
US08700769B2 System and method for providing configurable security monitoring utilizing an integrated information system
A system and method for implementing an integrated information system are provided. A premises server is in communication with a variety of information sources that produce monitoring data for a premises. The premises server collects, presents, and transmits the monitoring device data to a central server capable of processing data from multiple premises servers. The central server receives the data and traverses one or more logical rule sets to determine whether the inputted data violates the rules. Based on an evaluation of the rules, the central server generates outputs in the form of communication to one or more authorized users via a variety of communication mediums and devices and/or the instigation of a variety of acts corresponding to the evaluation of the rules.
US08700768B2 Scheduling timelines of virtual machines
A method for scheduling timelines of virtual machines (VMs) is presented. The method includes determining, by a host controller device, a time span based on configurable timelines recorded in a plurality of timers stored in memory of the host controller device, wherein the time span comprises a time interval when a plurality of virtual machines (VMs) are started and does not include a run time of the plurality of VMs. The method further includes starting, by the host controller device during the determined time span, the plurality of VMs on a plurality of host machines managed by the host controller device, wherein start times of each of the plurality of VMs are distributed across the determined time span.
US08700765B2 Methods and computer program products for monitoring and reporting network application performance
Provided are methods and computer program products for monitoring and reporting network application performance in a networked device. Methods may include collecting performance data corresponding to at least one application running on the networked device in substantially real time using at least one kernel space driver interface; generating multiple kernel level metrics and multiple user level metrics based on the collected performance data; aggregating the kernel level metrics and the user level metrics that were generated during a predefined time interval; and generating, responsive to aggregating the kernel level metrics and the user level metrics, an event incorporating the aggregated metrics.
US08700764B2 Routing incoming messages at a blade chassis
A pass-through module in a blade chassis receives an incoming message that utilizes a transmission protocol from one of multiple transmission protocols. The pass-through module determines which of the multiple transmission protocols is used by the incoming message by: comparing a physical component of the transmission protocol used by the incoming message with known physical components of the multiple transmission protocols, and, if necessary, comparing a logical component of the transmission protocol used by the incoming message with known logical components of the multiple transmission protocols. The incoming message is then routed to an optimal blade that is specifically adapted to process messages that utilize the transmission protocol used by the incoming message.
US08700759B2 Autonomic optimization of presence server performance
A presence system comprises a presence server and a plurality of users in a distributed community of users that are associated with the presence server. The presence server selects a set of mediators, e.g., based upon a predetermined event, or other suitable factors, wherein each mediator is associated with a subset of the plurality of users. The presence server communicates presence information to the mediators where each mediator receives presence information regarding subscribed-to presence information for the users in their associated subset of users. Each mediator communicates the subscribed-to presence information to associated ones of the users in their associated subset of users.
US08700752B2 Optimized efficient LPAR capacity consolidation
A method and system for optimizing a configuration of a set of LPARs and a set of servers that host the LPARs. Configuration data and optimization characteristics are received. By applying the configuration data and optimization characteristics, a best fit of the LPARs into the servers is determined, thereby determining an optimized configuration. The best fit is based on a variant of bin packing or multidimensional bin packing methodology. The optimized configuration is stored. In one embodiment, comparisons of shadow costs are utilized to determine an optimal placement of the LPARs in the servers. LPAR(s) in the set of LPARs are migrated to other server(s) in the set of servers, which results in the LPARs and servers being configured in the optimized configuration.
US08700748B2 Information processing device
A setting unit sets a date and a time to start a module. A start-control unit starts the module when the date and the time that were set arrive. The setting unit sets a subsequent date and a subsequent time to start the module in accordance with a situation occurring before or after the module is started by the start-control unit. The setting unit does not set the subsequent date and the subsequent time to start the module, if a condition to execute the module is not fulfilled after the module is started by the start-control unit.
US08700747B2 System and method for automatically addressing devices in a multi-drop network
Systems and methods that automatically assign addresses to devices coupled to a shared bus are provided. In one example, a system for assigning addresses to a plurality of devices within a network includes a memory and at least one processor coupled to the memory. The system is configured to instruct all of the plurality of devices to respectively select a first dynamic address from a first set of dynamic addresses, respectively assign a different static address to each device having a first dynamic address that uniquely identifies the device, instruct all of the plurality of devices having a first dynamic address that identifies at least two devices to respectively select a second dynamic address from a second set of dynamic addresses and respectively assign another different static address to each device having a second dynamic address that uniquely identifies the device.
US08700746B2 Provision of telematics services via a mobile network
The invention relates to the use of mobile networks (110) in a telematics environment. A method embodiment of the invention performed by an application server (108) accessible via the mobile network (110) comprises the steps of receiving setting information (124) via a radio interface (126) of the mobile network, wherein the setting information indicates an environment setting of an environment in which a user terminal (106) is deployed; and controlling an application (109) hosted by the application server according to the received setting information.
US08700741B2 Information communication terminal, information distribution apparatus, information distribution system, content management method, broadcast reception method, information distribution method, programs and storage medium
An information distribution apparatus and an information communication terminal, in which contents are managed by using content identifiers (content IDs) managed as IDs conforming to a rule of uniformity. In the information communication terminal, a content ripped from a recording medium, and stored in a storage element, is also managed by using a content identifier acquired from the information distribution apparatus. Accordingly, contents stored in the storage element can be managed by using content IDs each managed as an ID common to the information communication terminal and the information distribution apparatus. In communicating between the information communication terminal and the information distribution apparatus, a content identifier conforming to a rule of uniformity is used for identifying a content to which the content identifier is assigned, so that the terminal is capable of downloading the content as well as acquiring additional information relevant to the content from the apparatus.
US08700735B1 Multi-level cache with synch
Disclosed in some examples is a method of caching by storing data in a first cache specific to a first geographic area and accessible only by a first application in the first geographic area; storing data in a second cache specific to a second geographic area and accessible by a plurality of applications in the second geographic area including the first application and a second application, the second geographic area being larger than and encompassing at least part of the first geographic area; responsive to a miss in the first cache for data, contacting the second cache and searching for the data in the second cache; and responsive to a hit for the data in the second cache, sending the data to a first application, wherein the data was placed in the second cache by a second application.
US08700728B2 Cache defeat detection and caching of content addressed by identifiers intended to defeat cache
Resource management in a wireless network is facilitated by caching content on a mobile device. The resource management method includes detecting a data request to a content source for which content received is stored as cache elements in a local cache on the mobile device, determining, from an identifier of the data request, that a cache defeating mechanism is used by the content source, and/or retrieving content from the cache elements in the local cache to respond to the data request.
US08700727B1 Peer-to-peer based caching for network file system
Systems and techniques relating to network file systems are described. A described technique includes associating with a process that exports a network file system, where the process manages the network file system, associating with one or more peers that use the network file system, where the one or more peers cache data associated with the network file system on one or more non-volatile memory structures, receiving a file system request to read or write at least a portion of a file that is associated with the network file system, and processing the file system request by selectively communicating with the one or more peers to retrieve cached data associated with the file when the file system request indicates a read or inform the one or more peers of a write to the file when the file system request indicates a write.
US08700726B2 Storage replication systems and methods
Systems and methods for information storage replication are presented. In one embodiment a storage flow control method includes estimating in a primary data server what an outstanding request backlog trend is for a remote secondary data server; determining a relationship of an outstanding request backlog trend to a threshold; and notifying a client that the primary data server can not service additional requests if the trend exceeds the threshold. In one embodiment the estimating comprises: sampling a number of outstanding messages at a plurality of fixed time intervals; and determining if there is a trend in the number of outstanding messages over the plurality of fixed time intervals. It is appreciated the estimating can be performed in a variety of ways, (e.g., utilizing an average, a moving average, etc). Determining the trend can include determining if values monotonically increase. The estimating in the primary server can be performed without intruding on operations of the remote secondary data server. The primary data server and the secondary data server can have a variety of configurations (e.g., a mirrored configuration, a RAID5configuration, etc.).
US08700723B2 Hierarchical display-server system and method
A computing system includes a hierarchical set of servers. The hierarchical set includes a master server and one or more slave server. The master server and slave servers communicate with at least one non-intelligent user system over a communications network. The master server has full access to each non-intelligent user system. The master server controls access permissions for each slave server to the non-intelligent user system(s). Each higher level slave server can control access permissions for sub-level slave server(s) to the non-intelligent user system(s). A master or, if permitted access, a slave server, creates a window in a display of the non-intelligent user system, and can provide access to the window to any lower-level slave server to send pixels to fill that window. The pixels can be the graphics output of an application such as a browser or spreadsheet or the pixels can be video (either live or read from a hard drive). In other applications of the servers, the server system can control output on components of the user system, and receive input from components and peripherals of the user system, all via communications over the network. Access to respective non-intelligent user systems is dictated by the master server and each higher level slave server of the hierarchical set of servers. Data representing input of components and peripherals is multiplexed and communicated over the network by the user system, and data representing output of components of the user system is received by the user system over the network and demultiplexed and delivered to the component for output on the user system.
US08700721B2 Method and system for electronic delivery of essential mail items
A delivery server, and a method of operating same for providing an trusted electronic mail service for the delivery of items to a subscriber. An associated database contains subscriber details. The server receives from the subscriber a nomination of at least one service provider from which the subscriber wishes to receive electronic mail items. The nomination is stored in the database in association with the subscriber details. A trusted communications channel is established between the delivery server and a service provider computer system, for example via the Internet or other public network. The delivery server receives essential mail data from the service provider via the communications channel, and verifies that the subscriber wishes to receive a corresponding electronic mail item, by comparison with subscriber details and nominations stored in the database. In the event that the verification is successful, the delivery server delivers the electronic mail item to the subscriber.
US08700720B2 System architecture for linking packet-switched and circuit-switched clients
A method and computer program product which allows both phone-based and IP-based clients to participate in a single audio conference. The method enables at least two multi-point control units (MCUs) (i.e., conferencing servers) to connect via a standard data linkage (i.e., full-duplex dial-up or IP link). The method and computer program product enables the phone-based MCU to handle the phone clients and the IP-based MCU to handle the IP-based clients, while connecting the two to allow each participating client to hear all other participating clients.
US08700718B2 Proactive pre-provisioning for a content sharing session
An apparatus includes a communication interface and a controller associated with the communication interface where the controller is further configured to determine an affinity between a first device and at least one other device and create, based at least in part upon the determined affinity, one or more pre-provision packages. These pre-provision packages include data likely to be shared in the event that a content sharing session is ultimately entered into. The one or more pre-provision packages are then provided for storage upon at least one of the first device and the at least one other device. Then, when a request from the first device to engage in a content sharing session with the at least one other device is received, access to the one or more pre-provision packages is provided to at least one of the first device and the at least one other device.
US08700714B1 Collaborative streaning of video content
A system, method and various user interfaces enable visually browsing multiple groups of video recommendations. A video stream includes a group of videos to be viewed and commented by users who join the stream. Users who join a stream form a stream community. In a stream community, community members can add videos to the stream and interact collaboratively with others community members, such as chatting in real time with each other while viewing a video. With streams, a user can create a virtual room in an online video content distribution environment to watch videos of the streams and interact with others while sharing videos simultaneously. Consequently, users have an enhanced video viewing and sharing experience.
US08700713B2 Picture provisioning system and method
A technique for image provisioning in an instant messaging (IM) environment involves storing images on a web server. The images may be made available to a low level IM client that receives instant messages from a high level IM client. The images may be, for example, avatar images, custom emoticons, or other images.
US08700711B2 Controlling delivery of notifications in real-time communications based on communication channel state
A critical notification is reliably delivered to at least one participant in a real-time communication session. A candidate delivery channel is selected, and a set of one or more communication state variables associated with the candidate delivery channel are identified. Current values associated with the communication state variables and determined, and a determination is made as to whether the current values associated with the communication state variables indicate that the notification can currently be reliably delivered using the candidate delivery channel. If the notification cannot currently be reliably delivered using the candidate delivery channel, an alternative delivery option is selected that may include using an alternative delivery channel and/or delaying delivery of the notification.
US08700705B2 Sharing of user preferences
Sharing of user preferences is described. In an embodiment a user preference associated with a user is shared with a group of users in order to improve the relevance of results they receive. A database is used to store information detailing a number of groups of users extracted from a social network graph, where the social network graph describes connections between users. On receipt of a user preference associated with a user, a group of users containing the user is selected and the user preference is then shared with everyone in the selected group. In a further embodiment, the groups of users in the database may comprise cohesive groups of users and an extended group associated with each cohesive group. When selecting a group to share preference data with, a cohesive group containing the user is first selected and then the preference data is shared with the corresponding extended group.
US08700704B2 Message board aggregator
Web content representing a first message is displayed in a window of a computer program. The first message is one of a plurality of messages posted to an online forum. A plurality of message summaries are displayed in the same window of the computer program, contemporaneously with the first message. The plurality of message summaries include first information derived from the first message and second information derived from a second message in the plurality of messages. The web content representing the first message may, for example, be displayed in a first frame of the window and the information derived from the first message may be displayed in a second frame of the same window. The online forum may, for example, be a web-based financial message board.
US08700695B2 Systems and methods for providing client-side accelerated access to remote applications via TCP pooling
The present invention is directed towards systems and methods for dynamically deploying and executing acceleration functionality on a client to improve the performance and delivery of remotely accessed applications. In one embodiment, the client-side acceleration functionality is provided by an acceleration program that performs a transport layer connection pooling technique for improving performance of communications and delivery of a remotely-accessed application. The acceleration program establishes a transport layer connection from the client to the server that can be used by multiple applications on the client, or that is otherwise shared among applications of the client. The acceleration program maintains the transport layer connection open to reduce the number of transport layer connection requests and number of transport layer connections established with the server for an application or multiple applications running on the client.
US08700690B2 Aggregating user presence across multiple endpoints
A presence aggregation system provides a presence server that allows users to publish information regarding their availability with the presence server. The presence server maintains a record of each user's published information. When an endpoint publishes information regarding a user's availability at that endpoint with the presence server, the presence server provides all of the user's published information, including the information just published, to each of the user's endpoints, including the endpoint which published the information. This allows each of the user's endpoints to generate an aggregated availability of the user. The presence server may also provide all of the user's published information, including the information just published, to each of the subscribing users' endpoints. This allows the subscribing users to also generate a view of the user's aggregated availability.
US08700683B2 Method and apparatus for providing a key-value based storage interface
An approach is provided for implementing a virtual file system using a key-value-based storage interface. A key-value directory framework determines one or more files stored in at least one stream-based file store. The key-value directory framework causes, at least in part, a grouping of the one or more files into at least one key-value directory. The key-value directory includes, at least in part, one or more key-value pairs of a distributed key-value store. The key-value directory framework also causes, at least in part, a storage of (a) at least one identifier of the one or more files, the at least one key-value directory, or a combination thereof as one or more keys of the one or more key-value pairs; (b) block-based access information associated with the one or more files as one or more values of the key-value pairs; and (c) a locking mechanism to facilitate coordination of threads across multiple hosts.
US08700676B2 System and method for appending metadata to objects
Systems and methods for appending metadata to objects are disclosed. A method may include in response to an indication to add new metadata to an existing immutable data object stored at a first location on a storage resource: (a) writing a new data object to a second location on the storage resource, the new data object including the new metadata; (b) aliasing a first unique identifier associated with the existing immutable data object to a second unique identifier associated with the new data object; and (c) associating the second unique identifier to the second location.
US08700675B2 Contents space forming apparatus, method of the same, computer, program, and storage media
A space providing server analyzes content to generate meta data. Further the space providing server generates contents space information defining the coordinates of a plurality of main bodies of contents data on a network according to the amount of features thereof, based on the meta data. The terminal apparatus displays a screen which includes image corresponding to the plurality of contents, based on the coordinates included in the contents space information.
US08700668B2 Completeness in dependency networks
The invention improves document generation systems in which data is collected to enable automated, customised document generation. initially, a questionnaire which defines a dataset is completed. The system then determines which variables are relevant, and then determines whether all relevant variables are in the dataset. Finally, the system generates a fully customised document if the dataset is complete.
US08700667B1 Location-aware task management systems and methods
Location-aware task management solutions are disclosed that can be used in a variety of task-management applications that prioritize tasks associated with a plurality of remote locations, based at least in part on the location of the remote user. For instance, certain systems utilize media access control (MAC) addresses of a plurality of wireless access points (WAPs) to identify and/or recommend which of a plurality of tasks should be completed by one or more remote users responsible for completing the tasks. In other instances, certain systems utilize GPS or RFID information to identify and/or recommend which of a plurality of tasks should be completed by one or more remote users responsible for completing the tasks.
US08700666B2 Moveable storage
A mobile storage system is disclosed that in one aspect identifies a geographical location change of a user, such as movement from a first geographical location to a second geographical location. In response, the mobile storage system may move the user's information to a storage device associated with the second geographical location so that the user's information may be accessed by the user more efficiently.
US08700663B2 Contextual keyword-based access control
Various implementations for contextual keyword-based access control are disclosed comprising one or more methods, systems, computer-readable media comprising instructions, and devices for annotating content with keywords, assigning a user to a group, associating the group with the keywords in a context and determining a privilege for the user to access the content based on the keywords, the context and the group.
US08700662B2 Dynamic profile system for resource access control
A dynamic profiling system (DPS) provides dynamic access session configuration for telecommunications subscribers, and provides subscriber session information to application platforms. The DPS configuration adapts to meet the needs of any combination of user connection requests, access channel devices, and access channels used to communicate connection requests. The DPS provides an aggregated view of user session information to efficiently and effectively provide services to subscribers. As the many different access channels (e.g., WiFi™ channels, Ethernet™ channels, and Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) channels continue to grow through which a subscriber connects to services, the dynamic profiling system also eliminates the inefficient proliferation of custom interfaces between the many support systems and applications that need access to subscriber profile and session configuration information. The DPS provides a universal and personalized access to telecommunications services. Provisioned services may be accessed by many different access channels based upon static and dynamically maintained information in the subscriber profile and the access channel used, respectively.
US08700660B2 Client-side statement routing for partitioned tables
A system includes reception of a first query from a client device at a first database node of a database instance comprising two or more database nodes, the first query specifying a first database table which is partitioned among two or more of the two or more database nodes, determination of first partitioning metadata of the first database table, the first partitioning metadata usable to identify one of the two or more database nodes based on table key values, compilation of the first query at the first database node to generate first compiled code, and transmission of the first compiled code and the first partitioning metadata from the first database node to the client device.
US08700656B2 Method and system for implementing an on-demand scheduler
Disclosed is an improved approach for implementing an on-demand scheduler and the structures to support realtime on-demand schedulers. A lightweight word-based structure is disclosed for storing scheduling-related data. Using this lightweight word-based structure enables on-demand and real-time scheduling. This type of lightweight structure also permits scheduling activities to be performed in a disconnected mode, which can then be later synchronized with the server to confirm the booking. In addition to appointment scheduling, this technique can also be implemented for scheduling of any type of resource.
US08700652B2 Systems and methods to generate and utilize a synonym dictionary
Systems and methods to identify synonyms are described. The system generates demand information based on a first plurality of queries. Further, the system identifies a second plurality of queries as a first cluster of queries from the first plurality of queries based on the demand information, and identifies a first synonym set based on an association map that comprises a first plurality of constraints identified from the second plurality of queries. Finally, the system stores the first synonym set in a synonym dictionary.
US08700648B2 Context based networking
Context based networking. A method for context based networking includes receiving a query. Further, the method includes obtaining behavioral targeting scores of a plurality of first buddy nodes of a node corresponding to the query. Furthermore, the method includes updating the behavioral targeting scores of the plurality of first buddy nodes based on behavioral targeting score of at least one second buddy node of each first buddy node. In addition, the method includes forwarding the query to at least one first buddy node based on the updated behavioral targeting scores. Further, the method includes obtaining a response associated with the query. The method also includes electronically providing the response to a user of the node.
US08700646B2 Reference file for formatted views
Methods, program products, and systems for displaying data in formatted views using reference files are described. In some implementations, a database application program can generate a result set using one or more queries. The result set can contain actual data from a database and metadata. The metadata can contain references to data records in the database, the references can include identifiers that can identify the data records. When a user saves a database report file, the user can save at least a part of the result set using the identifiers instead of the queries and layouts. Thus, the result set can be saved as a reference file. When the database application program opens the saved reference file, the database application program can reproduce the result set using the stored references without running all of the queries.
US08700616B2 Systems and methods for cross-street identification
Aspects of the invention relate to the use of electronic maps and providing information about intersecting streets. A given region of interest on a map may include any number of features. Features of interest, including road segments and intersections, can be filtered to remove non-street data. The results may be analyzed according to individual street segments. Each segment may be identified by a feature ID, and the relationship each segment has with a given intersection is analyzed. Thus, the direction of a segment into or out of an intersection is determined, along with the physical locations of the beginning and end of the segment. This information is used to provide robust map information that may be displayed to a user. Heuristics can be applied to the map information to provide coherent address or direction information to the user for a given point of interest.
US08700611B2 Extensible tree views for managing datacenter resources
A method for a GUI for client software that is a part of an application program for managing datacenter resources includes receiving as input one or more specifications, where each specification includes a hierarchy of queries. The method also includes determining one or more target data sources for each query in each hierarchy. Additionally, the method includes issuing the query to each target data source determined for the query, after adapting the query to a format that is acceptable to the target data source. The method further includes receiving the results of each query from the target data source, integrates the results into a hierarchy, and submitting the hierarchy to the client software for display in a tree view in the GUI.
US08700608B2 SQL execution plan verification
Approaches, techniques, and mechanisms are disclosed for ensuring that a database command is executed according to a query plan that has been verified to be actually optimal. Except in rare circumstances, a database server does not execute a query plan unless it is first verified by the database server. The database server receives a request to execute a database command. The database server determines an unverified plan is the best plan for satisfying the request. Rather than risk the unknown behavior of an unverified plan, the database server instead satisfies the request according to a verified plan. Subsequently—for example as part of a scheduled job—the database server executes the unverified plan to determine performance statistics. Based at least on the performance statistics, the database server determines whether or not to verify the unverified plan. Techniques for concurrent and optimistic verifications are also disclosed.
US08700606B2 Methods for calculating a combined impact analysis repository
Methods for accessing impact analysis repositories and transaction-refinement index for each of the impact analysis repositories. According to the obtained transaction-refinement index, associating the combined repository with information from the most transaction refined impact analysis repository. Associating the combined repository with information from the less transaction refined impact analysis repository in the case of a request to insert or delete a table record for tables that do not contain any impacted transaction in the more transaction refined impact analysis repository. And associating the combined repository with information from the less transaction refined impact analysis repository in the case of a request to update a table record for table columns that do not contain any impacted transaction in the more transaction refined impact analysis repository.
US08700605B1 Estimating rows returned by recursive queries using fanout
In an embodiment, a recursive query is received that comprises a first select statement with a seed select statement and a second select statement with a recursive reference, wherein the recursive query further identifies at least two columns in at least one table, wherein the at least two columns have parent-child relationships represented by nodes in a graph, wherein the graph represents the organization of values in rows in the at least one table. A target recursion depth is calculated for the graph based on a fanout of the graph. In an embodiment, the target recursion depth is calculated by summing the fanout at each recursion depth of the graph multiplied by a number of nodes at each recursion depth of the graph. An estimated number of rows that the recursive query will return is estimated based on the target recursion depth.
US08700597B2 Systems and methods for managing statistical expressions
Using natural language-like user inputs to provide statistics on a subset of data is described. In one embodiment, a user input that includes at least one word or phrase representing a rule is received. The rule includes an identification of a subset of data and a statistical expression to be performed on the subset of data. The subset of data includes at least part of the data elements of a data set. Each data element includes information on an individual or group. Instructions are provided for translating the rule into an executable format. The executable format includes a translated identification of the subset and a translated statistical expression. The subset of the data is accessed using the translated identification of the subset. The translated statistical expression is executed to obtain statistics on data elements of the subset of data. The statistics on the data elements are provided.
US08700594B2 Enabling multidimensional search on non-PC devices
Multidimensional search capabilities are enabled on a non-PC (personal computer) device being utilized by a user. An original query submitted by the user via the non-PC device is received. A structured data repository is accessed to extract structured data that is available for the original query, where the extracted structured data represents attributes of the original query. The extracted structured data is provided to the user in the form of a hierarchical menu which allows the user to interactively modify the original query, such modification resulting in a revised query.
US08700588B2 System and method for real-time web page analysis and modification
A technique is described for delivering contextual information to end users of a data network which includes at least one client system associated with an end user. According to a specific embodiment, the technique of the present invention provides a contextual-based platform for delivering to an end user in real-time proactive, personalized, contextual information relating to web page content currently being displayed to the user.
US08700574B2 Pourover journaling
PourOver is the process of replicating databases across clusters, in order to achieve real and/or near real-time database consistency between clusters (e.g., continually provide the ability to construct a consistent database on the alternate cluster that is up to date within a few minutes worth of transactions).
US08700571B2 System and method for optimizing protection levels when replicating data in an object storage system
A redundant array of independent nodes are networked together. Each node executes an instance of an application that provides object-based storage. The nodes are grouped into a plurality of systems each having multiple nodes. A data protection level method comprises setting a numerical value of a system dynamic data protection level for each system of nodes; and in response to user input, setting a value of a data protection level for one or more data objects in a system, the value being a fixed numerical value or a dynamic value. If the one or more data objects have a dynamic value of the data protection level in a system, the one or more data objects inherit the system dynamic data protection level of the system in which the one or more data objects reside. The value of the data protection level represents a number of copies of data of the one or more data objects to be kept where the one or more data objects reside.
US08700560B2 Populating a multi-relational enterprise social network with disparate source data
Some aspects include association of fields of a data source with one or more entity identities, one or more relation identities, and one or more attributes corresponding, respectively, to entity identities, relation identities and facet attributes defined in metadata of an enterprise social network, and reception of data from the data source. Also included is a determination, based on the data and the associated fields of the data source, of one or more source entities, one or more source entity identities associated with each of the one or more source entities, one or more source relations, one or more source relation identities associated with each of the one or more source relations, and one or more source facets associated with one or more source entities or source relations.For each determined source entity, it is determined if any of the one or more associated source entity identities is identical to an entity identity of the enterprise social network. A new entity is created in the enterprise social network corresponding to the determined source entity if it is determined that none of the one or more associated source entity identities is identical to an entity identity of the enterprise social network, and, if it is determined that one or more associated source entity identities is identical to an entity identity of the enterprise social network, the enterprise social network is updated with one or more source facets associated with the determined source entity.
US08700559B2 Interface chaining to populate a class-based model
Some embodiments include utilization of a first interface to query a data source using a first configuration and to return a first data set including a plurality of records, each of the plurality of records comprising data of a plurality of fields of the first data set, and reception of the first data set from the data source. Also included may be utilization of a second interface to query the data source using a second configuration and to return a second data set for each of the plurality of records, at least one field of the second configuration being associated with one of the plurality of fields of the first data set, each utilization using the received data of the one of the plurality of fields of a respective record that is associated with the at least one field of the second configuration, and reception of a respective second data set from the data source for each utilization of the second interface. Moreover, a class-based component model representing tag-based data and non-tag-based data may be populated with data of the respective second data sets.
US08700545B2 Sorted inbox with important message identification based on global and user models
A server system receives a message associated with a user. The server extracts message signals from the message, the extracted message signals including a first plurality of message signals. The server generates an importance weight for each message signal of the first plurality of message signals using both a global importance prediction model and a user importance prediction model. The global importance prediction model is based on information associated with multiple users, and the user importance prediction model is based on information associated with the user. The server determines an importance score for the message based on the generated importance weights of the first plurality of message signals. The server sends message information for the message along with information regarding importance of the message for display at a client device, where the information regarding importance of the message is based at least on the determined importance score.
US08700537B1 Method and apparatus for providing integrated multi-entity management of a workflow for quotes in the moving industry
Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for providing integrated management of a workflow for moving industry quotes. A processor can be configured to execute workflow management software to manage a plurality of moving industry quote workflows. Each moving industry quote workflow may correspond to a move transaction. The moving industry quote workflows may correspond to a plurality of workflow types, and each workflow type may comprise an associated plurality of interrelated tasks for different aspects of managing a moving industry quote workflow. Users can interact with a plurality of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) to perform the interrelated tasks.
US08700535B2 Issuing a publisher use license off-line in a digital rights management (DRM) system
A publishing user publishes digital content and issues to itself a corresponding digital publisher license to allow itself to render the published digital content. The publishing user is supplied with a publishing certificate from a digital rights management (DRM) server, where the publishing certificate allows the publishing user to so publish the digital content and to so issue the publisher license.
US08700529B2 Mutual fund card method and system
A computerized method and system for implementing such method, the method comprising establishing a card payment instrument account for an approved customer and an investment account for the benefit of the approved customer. A rebate is calculated periodically based on credit card usage and the rebate is applied to fund the investment account periodically. The rebate is the only funding of the investment account accomplished through the card payment instrument account.
US08700521B2 System and method for managing and evaluating network commodities purchasing
To disaggregate a single combined price of a bundled product, a computer receives a price data set comprised of component parts that correspond to the component parts of the bundled product. At least one component part differs in accordance with at least one parameter value of another component part. A price for a component part is calculated by obtaining metric data that includes one or more market reference prices responsive to the component part. Using the metric data, a market value is computed for each component part and the computed market values are summed to compute a market value total. A proportional value for at least one component part is generated by dividing the market value of the component part by the market value total. A price for the component part is calculated by multiplying the price data set's single combined price by the component part's proportional value.
US08700520B2 Cross-currency implied spreads
The disclosed systems and methods relate to allowing trading of over the counter (“OTC”) foreign exchange (“FX”) contracts on a centralized matching and clearing mechanism, such as that of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange's (“CME”'s) futures exchange system (the “Exchange”). The disclosed systems and methods allow for anonymous transactions, centralized clearing, efficient settlement and the provision of risk management/credit screening mechanisms to lower risk, reduce transaction costs and improve the liquidity in the FX market place. In particular, the disclosed embodiments increase speed of execution facilitating growing demand for algorithmic trading, increased price transparency, lower cost of trading, customer to customer trading, and automated asset allocations, recurring trades as well as clearing and settlement efficiencies.
US08700518B2 System and method for trading financial instruments using speech
A system and method automatically provides financial information to a client without requiring a service representative, increasing the efficiency and accuracy of a financial service transaction when compared to conventional systems, enabling a client to easily and efficiently provide information to the financial service provider, and enabling a financial service provider to easily and efficiently perform various financial services for a client automatically, including complex financial transactions.
US08700517B1 Apparatus and method for combining easements under a master limited partnership
A computer includes a processor and a memory connected to the processor. The memory stores capital data characterizing capital raised for the purchase of real property easements, operating data characterizing fees collected in connection with the real property easements, and a master limited partnership module with executable instructions executed by the processor to designate master limited partnership income based upon the capital data, the operating data and terms of an easement mater limited partnership.
US08700515B2 Security-to-entity crosswalk
A security-to-entity crosswalk system and method link business entity information to financial security information to provide risk insight about the business entity associated with a given security. The system comprises a collection of financial securities data, a collection of business entity data, and an integration component. The integration component links the collection of financial securities data with the collection of business entity data into a collection of master data. A business entity identifier is appended to an issuing entity in a collection of data. The business entity identifier is linked to a financial security identifier in the collection of data. Business information associated with said issuing entity is provided.
US08700509B2 Collectively analyzing holdings across multiple fixed income products
Systems, methods, and computer-readable mediums (i.e., utilities) for use in enabling corporate treasurers, money managers, and other investors to view and analyze consolidated credit risk on individual investments across multiple money market products (MMPs) and/or multiple accounts. In one aspect, the utilities may generate a database of MMP and related holding information that may be used to research and analyze one or more MMPs and/or underlying securities even if the same MMP or security is associated with different identifiers. In another aspect, the securities or holdings of the MMPs of actual or sample accounts may be aggregated (e.g., by common identifier, sponsor, issuer, etc.) either within MMPs and/or across multiple MMPs and subsequently analyzed to generate inferences and to obtain numerous types of information which may be presented to corporate treasurers and/or other users on a display (e.g., text, charts, graphs, etc.) for use in gauging a company's or other entity's credit exposure and in making decisions based on what is displayed.
US08700507B2 Payer-based account porting to portable value distribution systems and methods
A value distribution method includes enrolling a payee into a source program through which the payee receives funds from a payer. The source program includes a stored value account into which the payer deposits the payee's funds. The stored value account has account information associated therewith. The method also includes receiving a porting trigger, and, in response to the porting trigger, establishing a target program for the payee. The target program includes a target account into which entities in addition to the payer may deposit funds. The method also includes porting at least a portion of the account information from the source program to the target program.
US08700502B2 System and method for filling an order
A method for fulfilling inventory requests includes receiving an inventory request requesting an inventory item and selecting the requested inventory item from an inventory holder. The method further includes storing the requested inventory item in an order holder associated with the inventory request and moving the order holder to a storage space. In addition, the method includes detecting a triggering event and in response to detecting the triggering event, retrieving the order holder from the storage space.
US08700487B2 User to website guaranteed shopping
One embodiment is directed toward a process for a merchant inspection, where a guaranteed shopping server inspects online merchants to ensure they are reliable, financially stable, and committed to providing a great online shopping experience to the buyer/user. Next, this service monitors merchants on a regular basis, to ensure they deliver on their terms of sale, thus assuring purchasers of an overall safe online experience. Next, the guaranteed shopping service provides, a guarantee for added peace of mind for the purchaser. In accordance with one embodiment, a guarantee is provided to the buyer including ID theft protection, a purchase guarantee and a lowest price guarantee. As with other type of guarantees, certain restrictions and terms may apply. If a buyer does experience a problem with an online merchant, a benefit claim can be made and once the claim is validated, guaranteed shopping coverage can apply.
US08700483B2 Simplified orders using words or phrases
A user communicates, such as through text, a phrase or word to quickly place and pay for an order. The phrase corresponds to details of the order and one phrase can contain orders with multiple merchants. Once the phrase is communicated, a service provider or merchant determines the order from the phrase and processes the order, which may include transmitting order details to the merchant(s) and processing the payment(s) to the merchant(s) on behalf of the user.
US08700479B2 Wireless network access prepayment systems and methods
A method of providing network access includes entering network access information into a merchant device at a merchant location. The information relates to a request from a customer to obtain network access. The method also includes causing the information to be transmitted to a host computer system from the merchant device, receiving a payment from the customer, receiving activation confirmation from the host computer system at the merchant device, and providing a presentation instrument to the customer. The presentation instrument may be used by the customer to obtain network access. The method further includes using the presentation instrument to settle a transaction with the customer for merchandise.
US08700478B2 Computer-readable storage medium, information processing apparatus, information processing system, and information processing method
A game apparatus executes an application loaded from a storage section, and generates an application information frame that contains most-recently-used app ID information that is identification information of the executed application. Then, the game apparatus transmits the application information frame to another game apparatus. The game apparatus receives, from the other game apparatus, most-recently-used app ID information that identifies an application executed by the other game apparatus. The game apparatus displays the received most-recently-used app ID information.
US08700476B1 Method and system for facilitating the transfer of intellectual property
A method and system for facilitating the transfer of intellectual property are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method of facilitating the transfer of intellectual property includes obtaining at a computer system of a first entity information concerning intellectual property in which an interest is available for transfer (the “available intellectual property”) from a second entity. The method further includes transferring the interest in the available intellectual property by concluding an agreement between the first and second entities. The agreement is representative of an acceptance of an offer concerning the transferring of the interest in the available intellectual property and consideration for the transferring of the interest. At least a portion of the interest in the available intellectual property that is transferred to the first entity is intended to be transferred from the first entity to a third entity.
US08700474B2 Deliverying customer specified receipt types at checkout
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for delivering customer specified receipt types at checkout. A customer specifies receipt delivery preferences at a mobile device (e.g., specifying delivery of a digital receipt and/or a paper receipt at checkout). The mobile device sends the customer's receipt delivery preferences to a receipt preferences database server for storage in a receipt preferences database. During a sales transaction, a point-of-sale (“POS”) system refers to the receipt preferences database (or a relevant portion thereof) to access the customer's receipt delivery preferences. Based on the customer's receipt delivery preferences, the point-of-sale (“POS”) system delivers appropriate types of receipts (e.g. digital and/or paper) to the customer.
US08700470B2 Comparison shop ad units
Merchants create ecommerce-enabled ad units advertising items offered by the merchants. The ad units contain functionality enabling customers to purchase the items by interacting with the ad units. The ad units have associated bid prices that the merchants agree to pay for sales through the ad units. The merchants provide the ad units to a broker. The broker publishes the ad units on web pages provided by publishers as comparison shop ad units that contain multiple ad units and functionality for navigating among them. A customer receiving a web page interacts with an ad unit to purchase the item. During the interactions, the broker dynamically updates the ad unit to conduct the transaction.
US08700468B2 Micro-segment definition system
A selection of one or more segment attributes from an offer provider campaign is received at a graphical user interface. The one or more segment attributes define one or more segments that correspond to one or more offers in the offer provider campaign. Further, an expression graph based on the one or more segment attributes is generated. In addition, a portable micro-segment object is generated based on the expression tree such that the portable micro-segment object lacks dependence on the offer provider campaign.
US08700467B2 Apparatus and method for providing cell-based advertisement broadcast service in broadband wireless communication system
Provided is an apparatus and method for providing a cell-based advertisement broadcast service in a broadband wireless communication system. In an advertisement broadcast service of a service interface server in the broadband wireless communication system, an advertisement content transmission request message containing at least one of information about advertisement broadcast content, information about an advertisement broadcast zone, and information about an advertisement broadcast channel is received from a service provider. The received advertisement content transmission request message is transmitted to an MCBCS controller.
US08700462B2 System and method for optimizing advertisement campaigns using a limited budget
The present invention relates to methods, systems, and computer readable media comprising instructions for generating a media plan for the distribution of one or more advertisements comprising a campaign. The method of the present invention comprises retrieving one or more advertiser specified advertising metric target values and analytics data associated with the campaign. The actual performance of the campaign with respect to one or more advertising metrics associated with the one or more advertiser specified advertising metric target values is determined. A modification is performed of one or more advertiser specified values based upon a comparison of the actual performance of the campaign and the one or more advertiser specified advertising metric target values. A media plan is thereafter generated for the campaign through use of the one or more modified advertiser specified values.
US08700448B2 System and method for item recommendations
Means and a computerized method for recommending items such as books and audio compact disks. For each item, a user profile includes ratings provided by users of the system. Unlike present recommendation systems, the user profiles do not include pre-computed similarity factors measuring similarity between users. Rather, when an advisee requests a recommendation, similarity measures are computed comparing the advisee to other users, and the similarity measures are associated with the other users. A subset of the users is selected, where the subset includes the users most similar to the advisee. A recommendation is made based on the ratings by the members of the selected subset.
US08700447B2 Systems and methods to present search results of business listings
Systems and methods are provided to facilitate the presentation of listings according to levels of user interest in the listings. For example, statistics generated from tracking user interactions with the listings and/or other parameters can be used to measure or estimate a level of current user interest in a listing. Listings in search results can be presented in an order according to the levels of current user interest in the listings.
US08700446B2 Methods and systems for dynamically generating coupons associated with presentation instruments
This disclosure describes, generally, methods and systems for dynamically generating coupons. The method may include associating a coupon value with a manufacturer's offer onto a presentation instrument. The presentation instrument may include a barcode to store terms of the manufacturer's offer and a storage device to store coupon value information. The method may further include distributing the presentation instrument to a customer, scanning the barcode to verify the terms of the offer have been fulfilled, and presenting the presentation instrument to a merchant to access the coupon value information stored on the storage device. Furthermore, the method includes receiving funds in the amount of the coupon value from the manufacturer, and transferring the received funds to the merchant.
US08700444B2 System for monitoring optimal equipment operating parameters
A method includes obtaining a present value of a set point for at least one piece of equipment with a remote monitor in communication with a controller that controls the at least one piece of equipment according to the set point. The method also includes determining a first power consumption rate with the remote monitor. The first power consumption rate corresponds to power consumption of the at least one piece of equipment while operating at the present value of the set point. The method also includes determining a second power consumption rate with the remote monitor. The second power consumption rate corresponds to power consumption of the at least one piece of equipment while operating at a predetermined benchmark value of the set point. The method also includes determining a monetary cost associated with a difference between the first power consumption rate and the second power consumption rate, based on a power consumption cost, when the first power consumption rate is greater than the second power consumption rate. The method also includes communicating the monetary cost, with the remote monitor, to a remote user.
US08700439B2 Action console framework
An apparatus, system and method includes an action manager to receive a manual action selected by a user and an action console coupled to the action manager to present via the action console a user interface specific to the manual action selected by the user. The apparatus, system and method display a directory having one or more manual actions to a user, receives a selection identifying a manual action from the user; and submits the identified manual action to an automated workflow process to execute the identified manual action.
US08700438B1 Constraint-based schedule generation for transportation resources
Methods and systems, including systems for implementing computer software, use constraint programming to generate a schedule for transportation resources. A constraint propagation algorithm is used to eliminate invalid schedule options based on a first set of constraints in a network of transportation resources. Execution of the constraint propagation algorithm generates a reduced set of schedule options. A backtracking constraint programming algorithm and the reduced set of schedule options are then used to generate at least one proposed schedule. The backtracking algorithm is operable to select particular schedule options from the reduced set of schedule options based on a second set of constraints.
US08700424B2 Platform for connecting medical information to services for medical care
A user device for connecting symptom, disease, procedure, and facility based information into actionable services for medical care and cost analysis is presented. The user device may include the functionality of linking medical information and providing user specific information. The user-specific information allows the user to make an informed decision about medical treatment. The user device may further be operative to tailor information in light of user characteristics such as location or healthcare network membership.
US08700423B2 Location-based management of healthcare environments
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for managing healthcare environments are provided. In embodiments, a real-time status of a clinical device, along with a location, is received. The location of the clinical device is obtained via a clinical device identifier that is tracked by a plurality of sensors in a healthcare environment. A clinical device may be identified as inappropriate for use and an alert presented to a clinician including the problem of the clinical device and the location thereof. A replacement clinical device may be located, using clinical identifiers, and presented to the clinician. Such monitoring and location awareness facilitates efficient responses to healthcare situations.
US08700415B2 Method and system for determining effectiveness of a compliance program
A method and system for determining effectiveness of a compliance program may include collecting subjective data related to effectiveness of the compliance program and means therefore. The method and system may also include collecting objective data related to effectiveness of the compliance program and means therefore. The method and system may further include calculating compliance effectiveness scores in response to a combination of the subjective data and objective data and means therefore.
US08700414B2 System supported optimization of event resolution
A system being monitored generates alerts directed at participants as events to be resolved occur. As a participant resolves an alerted event, the system logs the steps taken by the participant to resolve the event and stores the event resolution log associated with the event. From that event resolution log, a template for a workflow process can be automatically generated. When similar events occur again, the participant for those future events can be provided with the prior stored event resolution log and/or automatically generated templates for a workflow processes corresponding to the stored event resolution log. Iterative generation and editing of templates can be provided for, wherein subsequent event resolutions for similar events are used to modify the workflow process templates developed from previous event resolutions. Events can include conditions being met in data stored by the system or events representing the lack of occurrence of expected events. Participants can be human users, automated participants or proxies interfacing human users to the system. In one embodiment, the system is a network connecting business collaborators.
US08700409B1 Real-time versioning of device-bound content
Subject matter described herein relates to providing to a mobile device a version of content (e.g., music, video, text message, live call, etc.) that is consistent with a user's filter setting. That is, a user is allowed to specify content elements (e.g., words or images) that are proscribed from being presented on the mobile device, and the user's preferences are stored by a mobile telecommunications network. When the network receives content to be provided to the mobile device, the network edits the content in real time to prevent proscribed elements from being presented on the mobile device.
US08700407B2 Systems and methods for recognizing sound and music signals in high noise and distortion
A method for recognizing an audio sample locates an audio file that closely matches the audio sample from a database indexing a large set of original recordings. Each indexed audio file is represented in the database index by a set of landmark timepoints and associated fingerprints. Landmarks occur at reproducible locations within the file, while fingerprints represent features of the signal at or near the landmark timepoints. To perform recognition, landmarks and fingerprints are computed for the unknown sample and used to retrieve matching fingerprints from the database. For each file containing matching fingerprints, the landmarks are compared with landmarks of the sample at which the same fingerprints were computed. If a large number of corresponding landmarks are linearly related, i.e., if equivalent fingerprints of the sample and retrieved file have the same time evolution, then the file is identified with the sample.
US08700404B1 System and method for using semantic and syntactic graphs for utterance classification
Disclosed herein is a system, method and computer readable medium storing instructions related to semantic and syntactic information in a language understanding system. The method embodiment of the invention is a method for classifying utterances during a natural language dialog between a human and a computing device. The method comprises receiving a user utterance; generating a semantic and syntactic graph associated with the received utterance, extracting all n-grams as features from the generated semantic and syntactic graph and classifying the utterance. Classifying the utterance may be performed any number of ways such as using the extracted n-grams, a syntactic and semantic graphs or writing rules.
US08700401B2 Adaptive voice print for conversational biometric engine
A computer-implemented method, system and/or program product update voice prints over time. A receiving computer receives an initial voice print. A determining period of time is calculated for that initial voice print. This determining period of time is a length of time during which an expected degree of change in subsequent voice prints, in comparison to the initial voice print and according to a speaker's subsequent age, is predicted to occur. A new voice print is received after the determining period of time has passed, and the new voice print is compared with the initial voice print. In response to a change to the new voice print falling within the expected degree of change in comparison to the initial voice print, a voice print store is updated with the new voice print.
US08700395B2 Transcription data extraction
A computer program product, for performing data determination from medical record transcriptions, resides on a computer-readable medium and includes computer-readable instructions for causing a computer to obtain a medical transcription of a dictation, the dictation being from medical personnel and concerning a patient, analyze the transcription for an indicating phrase associated with a type of data desired to be determined from the transcription, the type of desired data being relevant to medical records, determine whether data indicated by text disposed proximately to the indicating phrase is of the desired type, and store an indication of the data if the data is of the desired type.
US08700387B2 Method and system for efficient transcoding of audio data
Methods and systems for transcoding input audio data in a first encoding format to generate audio data in a second encoding format, and filterbanks for use in such systems. Some such systems include a combined synthesis and analysis filterbank (configured to generate transformed frequency-band coefficients indicative of at least one sample of the input audio data by transforming frequency-band coefficients in a manner equivalent to upsampling the frequency-band coefficients and filtering the resulting up-sampled values to generate the transformed frequency-band coefficients, where the frequency-band coefficients are partially decoded versions of input audio data that are indicative of the at least one sample) and a processing subsystem configured to generate transcoded audio data in the second encoding format in response to the transformed frequency-band coefficients. Some such methods include the steps of: generating frequency-band coefficients indicative of at least one sample of input audio data by partially decoding frequency coefficients of the input audio data; generating transformed frequency-band coefficients indicative of the at least one sample of the input audio data by transforming the frequency-band coefficients in a manner equivalent to upsampling the frequency-band coefficients to generate up-sampled values and filtering the up-sampled values; and in response to the transformed frequency-band coefficients, generating the transcoded audio data so that the transcoded audio data are indicative of each sample of the input audio data.
US08700386B2 Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program
There is provided an information processing apparatus including: an acquiring unit acquiring a title of content; an analyzing unit dividing the title into tokens; a calculating unit calculating, for each token, an evaluation value based on a token length and weighted according to the token's position in the title; a mapping unit mapping, for each token, a token point shown by an ordinal number showing the token's position in the title and the evaluation value, onto a coordinate plane; a deciding unit deciding, based on the mapped token points, coordinates of a criterion point used as a criterion for extracting a series identifier and an extraction criterion based on the criterion point; an extracting unit extracting token points that conform to the extraction criterion out of the token points; and a generating unit generating the series identifier from the character strings included in tokens associated with the extracted token points.
US08700379B2 Method and apparatus for simulating microcomputer-based systems
A method and apparatus for developing microcomputer-based systems. A controller model having at least one parameter is simulated and, similarly, a plant model having at least one parameter and controlled by the controller model is simulated. A user interface then has access to the parameters of the controller model and plant model and optionally suspends the execution of the controller model and plant model in response to a trigger event. The user interface determines the status of the controller model parameters and/or plant model parameters at the time of the trigger without altering the controller model parameters or plant model parameters or the program code of the controller model.
US08700375B2 Electromagnetic coupler, wireless terminal including same, and method for designing electromagnetic couplers
There is provided an electromagnetic coupler that communicates signals by using at least one of a longitudinal electrostatic field and a longitudinal induced electric field. The electromagnetic coupler has a ground conductor, a radiation conductor composed of a plurality of rectangular conductors connected in series, and a feeding point formed at one point in the connection of the plurality of rectangular conductors. The plurality of rectangular conductors are connected such that each pair of adjacent rectangular conductors form an angle other than π radian, and a length from the feeding point to either end of the radiation conductor is an integral multiple of λ/4 in electrical length with respect to a wavelength λ of a central frequency of a frequency band of interest of the electromagnetic coupler.
US08700373B2 Method for estimating survival cell count, and method for setting guaranteed cell count
The present invention provides a method for estimating survival cell count, which is able to calculate an accurately estimated result of the survival cell count of a specific strain in a probiotic product with respect to its storage period, and to shorten the time for developing the product, and a method for setting a guaranteed cell count, which is able to readily calculate a guaranteed cell count of a specific strain in a probiotic product within its quality guarantee period. The method for estimating the survival cell count is characterized by estimating the survival cell count nt (CFU/g) of a specific strain contained in a composition after storage, in accordance with the following equation (I). (I) Log10 nt=Log10 n0−t×EXP{(AT×T+BT)w+(CT×T+DT)}, provided that t stands for the storage period (days)×1/30, nt stands for the survival cell count (CFU/g) of the strain contained in the composition after the storage period t (days), n0 stands for the viable cell count (CFU/g) of the strain contained in the composition at the initiation of storage, T stands for the storage temperature (° C.), w stands for the water activity value of the composition, AT and CT stand for experimentally determined coefficients specific to the strain, and BT and DT stand for experimentally determined constants specific to the strain.
US08700366B1 Variable transport delay modelling mechanism
A method, system and apparatus for managing data in a buffer reduces the data density of the buffer by downsampling input buffer data. The buffer holds a plurality of input data points associated with an index. The buffer may have a capacity and a data density that represents a logical distance between indices of adjacent input data points. When the buffer is at or near the capacity, a rule may be applied to the data buffer. The rule may downsample the input data and reduces the data density of the buffer. The rule may include, for example, removing every kth input data point, or removing the least-used data points. Removed data points may be retrieved by deriving the removed data points from data points that remain in the buffer.
US08700365B2 Thermal modelling of a transformer
A calculation model for evaluating the influence of different liquid properties to a thermal performance of a transformer includes at least one liquid parameter and at least one black box parameter whose value is adjusted with help of measurement data from a real transformer. The black box parameter is provided for modelling parts of the transformer which cannot be accessed, typically the active parts of the transformer.
US08700353B2 MEMS accelerometer device
A MEMS accelerometer device for use with a machine having a housing with a threaded aperture, and an external data acquisition system, the device including a stud defining a chamber and having a threaded body configured to fasten into the threaded aperture, a printed circuit board disposed in the chamber, an accelerometer sensor chip mounted on and electrically connected to the printed circuit board, and a communication device electrically connected to the printed circuit board and configured for providing measurement data to the data acquisition system.
US08700344B2 Ultrasonic flow meter
A method and apparatus utilizing a pair of ultrasonic transducers simultaneously transmitting and receiving to measure the mean time of flight of an ultrasonic signal over a given distance, and thereby the speed of sound of a fluid in a conduit at a given temperature, independent of flow rate, and the flow rate of the fluid. A signal source simultaneously drives an upstream transducer and a downstream transducer, each of which receive the signal transmitted by the other. The difference between the upstream and downstream signals takes into account the speed of sound of the fluid. The time of flight for the upstream and downstream signals can then be used to calculate the flow rate. A phase locked loop coupled to the signal source automatically adjusts for variations of the speed of sound in the fluid in response to temperature changes.
US08700342B2 Multi-frequency bond testing
A multi-frequency bond-testing system using acoustic probes in conjunction with NDT/NDI inspection instruments. Bond-testing of test objects is carried out at multiple discrete frequencies to produce a single, combined amplitude C-scan. Alternatively, or in combination, the system provides a single, combined phase C-scan to enable proper interpretation of the C-scans. Amplitude and/or phase readings on test objects are normalized at the selected frequencies relative to tests performed on a defect-free object at those frequencies. In this manner, the non-linear behavior of a bond-testing probe over a frequency range chosen for a given inspection is compensated for. The invention enables providing more easily interpretable and sharper images which enable a more reliable and faster reading and identification of defects in the test objects.
US08700329B2 Navigation apparatus
A navigation apparatus is provided that is highly convenient for a user to view a map screen and a menu window. A display controller 15 determines a view mode of each of a map screen and a menu window, based on information about a travel condition of a moving object from a route search unit 12 and an own-vehicle location identification unit, when the menu window is displayed according to information entered from an input unit 10. A display map generator 16 generates a map screen according to information about the view mode from the display controller 15. A display menu generator 17 generates a menu window according to information about the view mode from the display controller 15. A display unit 21 displays the map screen from the display map generator 16 and the menu window from the menu generator 17.
US08700317B1 Aeronautical holding pattern calculation for solving high wind and protected airspace issues
A method of calculating Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) published or FAA Air Traffic Control assigned aeronautical holding patterns, comprising the steps of: defining navigational way points using their latitude and longitude coordinates; displaying the latitude and longitude that define the point for an inbound turn; defining four posts of a holding pattern; and showing the actual holding space dimensions along with the non-protected airspace. The method may be performed by a stand-alone electronic device or an electronic device having other functions. The latitude and longitude that define the point for an inbound turn can be displayed as a bearing, and/or as a distance along a radial. The inbound turning point can be calculated using a global positioning or flight management system. A turn may be commanded using an automatic flight control system or flight director. The holding pattern can be drawn to the correct shape with regards wind direction and velocity, or used as an overlay over a representation of terrain.
US08700313B2 Mobile unit and system having integrated mapping, communications and tracking
A handheld device and system, in which such device and system include at least one mapping module, at least one tracking module interoperative with the at least one mapping module, at least one communications module interoperative with each of the at least one tracking module and the at least one mapping module, and at least two antennae communicatively connected via the at least one communications module to at least one central processing unit. At least one of the at least two antenna is suitable for communications using at least two distinct to communication modes.
US08700290B2 Abnormality determination system for multi-cylinder internal combustion engine
When the ratio of the amount of vaporized fuel (purge amount) to be introduced into an intake passage of an engine from a fuel tank through a purge passage pipe, a purge control valve, etc. to the total amount of fuel (total fuel amount) to be supplied to the engine is large, an abnormality determination system acquires, as a parameter Pon, the air-fuel ratio imbalance index value that increases as the difference between the air-fuel ratios of the respective cylinders increases. When the purge amount is small relative to the total fuel amount, the determination system acquires the air-fuel ratio imbalance index value as a parameter Poff. When the difference between the parameters Pon and Poff is less than a predetermined value and at least one of these parameters is greater than a predetermined threshold value, the determination system determines that an inter-cylinder air intake amount variation abnormality is occurring.
US08700287B2 High-accuracy IMEP computational technique using a low-resolution encoder and a cubic spline integration process
A method for computing indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) in an internal combustion engine using sparse input data. The method uses a cubic spline integration approach, and requires significantly lower resolution crankshaft position and cylinder pressure input data than existing IMEP computation methods, while providing calculated IMEP output results which are very accurate in comparison to values computed by existing methods. By using sparse input data, the cubic spline integration method offers cost reduction opportunities for a manufacturer of vehicles, engines, and/or electronic control units, through the use of lower cost sensors and the consumption of less computing resources for data processing and storage.
US08700285B2 Control device and method for signaling a braking process at a trailer vehicle
The invention relates to a control device and method for signaling a braking process at a trailer vehicle. The control device determines at least one braking value that is assigned to the braking process, and actuates at least one brake light as a function of the braking value. The braking process is signaled differently for different braking values determined by the control device during a braking process. As a result, traffic following the trailer vehicle and/or an emergency braking situation can be signaled and, therefore, safety in road traffic can be increased.
US08700284B2 Charge while being flat towed feature for electric vehicles
A towed vehicle is towed by a towing vehicle. The towed vehicle includes a motor/generator for both regenerative braking and for powering wheels. A tow member connects the towed vehicle to the towed vehicle. A sensor measures or infers the tension and compression in the tow member. A computer communicates with the sensor and with the motor/generator. The computer commands the motor/generator to either utilize regenerative braking or provide assistance in propulsion of the towed vehicle based upon the tension and compression forces in the tow member.
US08700281B2 Vehicle including a wheel stopping determination unit
A vehicle that improves the accuracy of wheel stopping determination including a stopping determination unit that calculates stopping determination time by multiplying the pulse width of a wheel speed pulse immediately before a non-output time, for which no wheel speed pulse is output from a wheel speed sensor, by 21/2+1, or a corrected time which is corrected on the basis of the stopping determination time is set as a threshold value for determining stopping of wheels. Thus, the time corresponding to the pulse width of the wheel speed pulse takes into consideration the deceleration and traveling distance of the vehicle, thereby obtaining an optimum threshold value for determining the stopping of the wheels.
US08700279B2 Use of a clutch proportional-integral controller to assist a state observer during a vehicle shift event
A method for optimizing a shift event in a vehicle includes designating a clutch to be used as an oncoming clutch or an offgoing clutch in the shift event before executing the shift event, and processing a plurality of input values through a state observer to thereby determine, as an output value of the state observer, an estimated slip speed of the designated clutch. The method includes using a proportional-integral control module for the designated clutch (a clutch PI) to close the control loop on the estimated slip speed from the state observer, thereby smoothing a switching between state space equations in the state observer, and executing the shift event. A vehicle includes a transmission, an engine, at least one traction motor, and a control system configured for executing the above method.
US08700264B2 Control method and unit for a steering system
A method and unit to control a steering system for a road vehicle, which steering system adjusts the steering angle of the front wheels of the road vehicle by means of a steering wheel; in a preliminary design and optimization step, an actual transmission error is determined, caused by the mechanical structure of a transmission device of the steering wheel which mechanically connects a steering wheel to a steering rod mechanically connected to the hubs of the front wheels; the current angular position of the steering wheel is measured; and the intensity of the servoassistance force applied by a servomechanism to the steering rod is changed as a function of the current angular position of the steering wheel and as a function of the actual transmission error.
US08700259B2 Systems and methods for off-board voice-automated vehicle navigation
A system for selecting music includes a mobile system for processing and transmitting through a wireless link a continuous voice stream spoken by a user of the mobile system, the continuous voice stream including a music request, and a data center for processing the continuous voice stream received through the wireless link into voice music information. The data center can perform automated voice recognition processing on the voice music information to recognize music components of the music request, confirm the recognized music components through interactive speech exchanges with the mobile system user through the wireless link and the mobile system, selectively allow human data center operator intervention to assist in identifying the selected recognized music components having a recognition confidence below a selected threshold value, and download music information pertaining to the music request for transmission to the mobile system derived from the confirmed recognized music components.
US08700256B2 Vehicle disturbance estimator and method
A Vehicle Disturbance Estimator determines estimates of a vehicle disturbance force according to vehicle operating conditions. The determined vehicle disturbance force estimate can be used, for example, in connection with controlling a cruise control system for the vehicle, in connection with fuel economy evaluations and testing, and in connection with vehicle diagnostics. A plurality of sets of inputs can be used to determine plural vehicle disturbance estimates for time periods during which a cruise control is on, the vehicle is being driven in the highest gear, and the vehicle is not being braked by any brakes. The plurality of vehicle disturbance estimates can be averaged to provide an output corresponding to an average vehicle disturbance estimate over a plurality of sampling time periods. Kalman filtering can be used to determine the vehicle disturbance estimates. Signals corresponding to the plural disturbance estimates can be provided as an input to a cruise control, with the cruise control then being operable to control the speed of the motor vehicle, based at least in part upon the vehicle disturbance estimate.
US08700251B1 System and method for automatically detecting key behaviors by vehicles
Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to detecting discrete actions by traveling vehicles. The features described improve the safety, use, driver experience, and performance of autonomously controlled vehicles by performing a behavior analysis on mobile objects in the vicinity of an autonomous vehicle. Specifically, an autonomous vehicle is capable of detecting and tracking nearby vehicles and is able to determine when these nearby vehicles have performed actions of interest by comparing their tracked movements with map data.
US08700241B2 Drive control device for standby four-wheel drive vehicle
Provided is a drive control device for a standby four-wheel drive vehicle having primary drive wheels coupled to a drive source including a motor generator that generates a regenerative braking torque and a clutch device disposed between the drive source and secondary drive wheels to switch a two-wheel drive state using the primary drive wheels and a four-wheel drive state using the primary drive wheels and the secondary drive wheels, including: a transmission torque control portion that causes the clutch device to set a transmission torque between the drive source and the secondary drive wheels to zero so as to allow only the primary drive wheels to perform regenerative braking if a request braking torque of the vehicle is equal to or lower than a predetermined primary-drive-wheel regeneration limit torque during the regenerative braking by the motor generator, the transmission torque control portion causing the clutch device to generate the transmission torque between the drive source and the secondary drive wheels so as to allow the primary drive wheels and the secondary drive wheels to perform the regenerative braking if the request braking torque exceeds the primary-drive-wheel regeneration limit torque.
US08700240B2 Start control system for vehicle
A start control system for an automotive vehicle equipped with an electric motor working as a drive source. The start control system includes an accelerator limiter which limits an operating range of an accelerator of the vehicle to disable the electric motor and a limitation cancelling request receiver that receives a limitation cancelling request from a vehicle operator to cancel the limitation of the operating range of the accelerator. When the vehicle operator makes a start request mistakenly, so that the condition where the electric motor is set ready to start coincides with the condition where a brake of the vehicle is not operated, which will cause the vehicle to start upon the movement of the accelerator, the vehicle is inhibited from running unless the limitation cancelling request receiver receives the limitation cancelling request, thus minimizing the possibility of an error in starting the vehicle.
US08700239B2 Machine for augmentation, storage, and conservation of vehicle motive energy
A machine for addition of motive force to a vehicle, with rotor-plate, rotor-arms, rotor permanent magnets, stator-plate, stator columns, stator electromagnets, and battery, cell, or other energy storage device.
US08700238B2 Marine vessel propulsion control apparatus and marine vessel
A marine vessel propulsion control apparatus is arranged to control a propulsion unit and a steering unit. The marine vessel propulsion control apparatus includes a joystick unit, and a control unit programmed to control an output of the propulsion unit and a steering angle of the steering unit in accordance with an output signal of the joystick unit. The joystick unit includes a lever that is tiltable from a neutral position and arranged to be operated by a marine vessel operator to command a heading direction and stem turning of a hull. The control unit is programmed to maintain the steering angle of the steering unit when the output of the propulsion unit is stopped.
US08700226B2 Method for driving a cooling fan within an electronic display
A system and method for controlling the cooling fan within an electronic display based on the amount of ambient light present. An ambient light sensor is used to measure the amount of ambient light which is contacting the display. To anticipate a temperature rise and lower the thermal inertia of the display, the fan speed is increased when high ambient light levels are measured at the exterior of the display. The ambient light sensor data may be used to apply a temperature correction factor to a temperature sensor within the display. Alternatively, the ambient light sensor data may be used to apply a fan speed correction factor to a desired fan speed (calculated based on a temperature sensor within the display). Multiple systems or methods can be used simultaneously within the display to cool several components which may heat and cool at different rates relative to one another. The various systems can have similar or different logic depending on the amount of cooling needed and the manner in which the cooled-components produce/absorb heat.
US08700214B2 Transfer assembly
Transfer assembly for transferring large numbers of products from a supply conveyor to a further position, such as one or more discharge conveyors. It is proposed to use a number of pick-and-place robots to this end, wherein the adjacent operating ranges are positioned along a line, which line extends at a small angle to the conveying direction. Preferably, the discharge conveyor extends parallel to the line and crosses the supply conveyor and is situated above it. In this way, it is possible to transfer large numbers of products using a limited number of transfer robots and to guarantee that all products are removed from the supply conveyor.
US08700191B2 Controlled application of external forces to a structure for precision leveling and securing
Methods and systems provide for the controlled application of forces to a structure during leveling and securing procedures. According to embodiments described herein, a force distribution system includes a number of force application devices that are communicatively linked to a computing system. The computing system controls the force application devices to apply calculated forces to the structure, monitor the forces, and adjust the forces when deviations occur. According to one embodiment, the force application devices include jack assemblies and the system is operative to level a structure and maintain the level position when the structure shifts. According to another embodiment, the force application devices include clamp assemblies and the system is operative to apply and maintain a constant and uniform pressure on a structure to secure the structure during machining. Other embodiments include using force application devices to secure a structure during transport.
US08700187B2 Method and apparatus for actively managing consumption of electric power supplied by one or more electric utilities
A system manages consumption of power supplied by at least one electric utility to multiple power consuming devices. Power flow to the power consuming devices is enabled and disabled by controllable devices controlled by one or more client devices. According to one embodiment, a group of one or more client devices to which to communicate a power control message is determined. The power control message indicates at least one of an amount of electric power to be reduced and an identification of one or more controllable devices to be instructed to disable a flow of electric power to one or more associated power consuming devices. The power control message is communicated to the determined group of client devices to initiate a power reduction event. Subsequent to initiation of the power reduction event, a determination is made that at least one controllable device has prematurely exited the power reduction event.
US08700186B2 Plant control system and program relocate method
According to one embodiment, a plant control system includes a station mounting controllers thereon, an engineering device which manages programs, and a device which connects the controllers and the engineering device. The engineering device includes database which stores information on a first variable for allowing data to be shared among programs in each controller and a second variable for allowing data to be shared among programs in the station, the database management part, and a relocate management part which moves the program, and the relocate management part includes a designating module which designates an execution order of programs in a source controller, one or more programs to be moved, a destination controller, and the source controller, a module which moves the program as designated in the designating module, and a changing module which, when the program is moved, moves or copies the first and second variable used in the program.
US08700184B2 Methods and systems for adaptive control
A switching power supply includes a circuit that provides an output voltage, a switching component that switches the circuit between a first output voltage state and a second output voltage state, and a driver component that receives an input control signal and that drives the switching component to cause the circuit to switch between the first output voltage state and the second output voltage state. An adaptive plant estimator receives the output voltage from the circuit and an input to the switching power supply and provides a model of the switching power supply that reflects changes in an output voltage state of the switching power supply. A compensator design component receives the model and provides compensator parameters that reflect changes in the output voltage state of the switching power supply. An adaptive compensator receives the compensator parameters and provides the input control signal to the driver component.
US08700181B2 Single-chamber leadless intra-cardiac medical device with dual-chamber functionality and shaped stabilization intra-cardiac extension
A leadless intra-cardiac medical device (LIMD) configured to be implanted entirely within a heart of a patient includes a housing configured to be securely attached to an interior wall portion of a chamber of the heart, and a stabilizing intra-cardiac (IC) device extension connected to the housing. The stabilizing IC device extension may include a stabilizer arm, and/or an appendage arm, or an elongated body or a loop member configured to be passively secured within the heart.
US08700173B2 Implantable medical device power saving communication
A non-implantable communication unit (100) conducts wireless communication with an implantable medical device, IMD, (200). The communication unit (100) comprises a request processor (120) for generating power down requests destined to the IMD (200) and triggering temporary power down of the IMD radio equipment (220). When the communication unit (100) receives a data packet from the IMD (200) or a connected programmer (300) it determines the size of the data packet. A timer processor (140) sets a timer (152, 154) to a value defined based on the determined size. A processor controller (160) selectively controls the operation of request processor (120) to generate or stop generating the power down requests based on a current value of the timer (152, 154). Power down of the IMD radio equipment (220) is thereby prevented if it is likely that the IMD (200) comprises data to transmit to the communication unit (100) as predicted based on data packet sizes.
US08700171B2 Controlled switching module for a multielectrode lead for an active implantable medical device
A controlled switching module (40, 42), for a multielectrode lead for an active implantable medical device, which connects a detection/stimulation electrode (28, 30) to one or the other conductor (36, 38) of a two-wire line. Two volatile controlled switches (52, 54), for example, complementary MOS associated with at least one non-volatile programmable memory component (68, 70), for example, a suspended nanotube cell or a magnetic tunnel junction cell, supply two previously programmed stable open or closed states. A generator maximum-minimum circuit (58) is coupled to the conductors at the input, and to the controlled switches at the output for selectively controlling them via the corresponding non-volatile memory component (68, 70).
US08700166B2 Coding for visual prostheses
A visual prostheses codes visual signals into electrical stimulation patterns for the creation of artificial vision. In some examples, coding of the information uses image compression techniques, temporal coding strategies, continuous interleaved sampling (CIS), and/or radar or sonar data. Examples of the approach are not limited to processing visual signals but can also be used to processing signals at other frequency ranges (e.g., infrared, radio frequency, and ultrasound), for instance, creating an augmented visual sensation.
US08700159B2 Methods of manufacturing an implantable pulse generator
Disclosed herein is an implantable pulse generator feedthru configured to make generally planar electrical contact with an electrical component housed within a can of an implantable pulse generator. The feedthru may include a feedthru housing including a header side and a can side, a core within the feedthru housing, a generally planar electrically conductive interface adjacent the can side, and a feedthru wire extending through the core. The feedthru wire may include an interface end and a header end, wherein the header end extends from the header side and the interface end is at least one of generally flush with the generally planar interface and generally recessed relative to the generally planar interface.
US08700155B2 System and method for using atrial pacing to enhance function of stunned atrial myocardium following conversion to normal sinus rhythm
An implantable medical device (IMD) having a therapy circuit for delivering atrial pacing and a control circuit for detecting a return to sinus rhythm. The control circuit determines the duration of an atrial arrhythmia preceding the return to sinus rhythm, and controls the therapy circuit to deliver transient atrial pacing based on the atrial arrhythmia duration.
US08700153B2 Cardiac stimulating device
An implantable medical device, IMD, comprises atrial and ventricular sensing units for sensing atrial or ventricular electric events. The IMD also comprises atrial and ventricular pulse generators for generating atrial or ventricular pacing pulses. A controller controls the operation of the IMD (100) according to a first mode, in which the ventricular pulse generator is prevented from generating a back-up pulse if an evoked response detector fails to detect evoked response to a delivered ventricular pacing pulse, and a second mode, in which the ventricular pulse generator is controlled to generate a back-up pulse if no evoked response is detected following delivery of a ventricular stimulating pulse. The controller switches operation from the first mode to the second mode based on the evoked response detector failing to detect an evoked response to a delivered ventricular pacing pulse.
US08700149B2 Estimating acute response to cardiac resynchronization therapy
Systolic timing intervals are measured in response to delivering pacing energy to a pacing site of a patient's heart. An estimate of a patient's acute response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for the pacing site is determined using the measured systolic timing intervals. The estimate is compared to a threshold. The threshold preferably distinguishes between acute responsiveness and non-responsiveness to CRT for a patient population. An indication of acute responsiveness to CRT for the pacing site may be produced in response to the comparison.
US08700140B2 Methods, system and apparatus for the detection, diagnosis and treatment of biological rhythm disorders
System, assembly and method are provided to facilitate reconstruction of cardiac information representing a complex rhythm disorder associated with a patient's heart to indicate a source of the heart rhythm disorder. The complex rhythm disorder can be treated by application of energy to modify the source of the rhythm disorder.
US08700136B2 Accurate time annotation of intracardiac ECG signals
A method for analyzing signals, including: sensing a time-varying intracardiac potential signal and finding a fit of the time-varying intracardiac potential signal to a predefined oscillating waveform. The method further includes estimating an annotation time of the signal responsive to the fit.
US08700134B2 Cantilever-based MEMS optical scanning apparatus, system and method
The present invention relates to an optical scanning apparatus and an optical scanning system The optical system includes an optical engine connected to an optical scanning probe The optical scanning probe images a sample at different lateral positions of the sample The optical scanning probe includes a housing having a longitudinal axis extending in a direction towards a sample to be scanned, a first base having a first moveable mirror supported thereon by a first cantilever connecting the first moveable mirror to the first base, a second base having a second moveable mirror supported thereon by a second cantilever connecting the second moveable mirror to the second base, and a support attaching the first and second bases so that the first moveable mirror and the second moveable mirror are disposed along the longitudinal axis apart from each other.
US08700129B2 Devices and methods for catheter localization
A medical device can be localized by providing at least three non-colinear localization elements (e.g., electrodes) thereon. Once placed in a non-ionizing localization field, three adjacent localization elements, at least one of which will typically be a spot electrode, may be selected, and the non-ionizing localization field may be used to measure their locations. A cylinder is defined to fit the measured locations of the selected localization elements. The cylinder is rotationally oriented using the measured location of a spot electrode. Location and rotational attitude information may be used to construct a three-dimensional representation of the medical device within the localization field. The electrodes may be provided on the medical device or on a sheath into which the medical device is inserted. The invention also provides systems and methods for identifying and calibrating deflection planes where the medical device and/or sheath are deflectable.
US08700125B2 Method and apparatus for automated tracking of vessel movement using MR imaging
A system and method is disclosed for tracking a moving object using magnetic resonance imaging. The technique includes acquiring a scout image scan having a number of image frames and extracting non-linear motion parameters from the number of image frames of the scout image scan. The technique includes prospectively shifting slice location using the non-linear motion parameters between slice locations while acquiring a series of MR images. The system and method are particularly useful in tracking coronary artery movement during the cardiac cycle to acquire the non-linear components of coronary artery movement during a diastolic portion of the R-R interval.
US08700119B2 Method and device for determining and presenting surface charge and dipole densities on cardiac walls
The invention discloses a method, a system, a computer program and a device for determining the surface charge and/or dipole densities on heart walls. Using the foregoing, a table of dipole densities ν(P′, t) and/or a table of surface charge densities ρ(P′, t) of a given heart chamber can be generated.
US08700116B2 Sensor system with pressure application
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to sensors for applying pressure to a patient's tissue. According to certain embodiments, the sensors may include one or more deformable elements that hold the optical components of the sensor against the tissue with an appropriate amount of pressure. In additional embodiments, such sensors may include a rigid one-piece sensor body that incorporates a deformable element to facilitate fine-fitting of the sensor against the tissue.
US08700112B2 Secondary-emitter sensor position indicator
A secondary-emitter sensor position indicator has primary emitters that transmit light having primary wavelengths and at least one secondary emitter that transmits light having at least one secondary wavelength. A detector outputs a sensor signal in response to received light. An attachment assembly, in a sensor-on condition, positions the emitters and detector relative to a tissue site so that the sensor signal is substantially responsive to the primary wavelength light after attenuation by pulsatile blood flow within the tissue site and is negligibly responsive to the secondary wavelength light. The attachment assembly, in a sensor out-of-position condition, positions the secondary emitter relative to the tissue site so that the sensor signal is at least partially responsive to the secondary wavelength.
US08700109B2 Techniques for improving reliability of a fault current limiting system
Techniques for improving reliability of a superconducting fault current limiting system (SCFCL) are provided. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized with a superconducting fault current limiting system (SCFCL) comprising: an input current lead and an output current lead, each current lead coupled to a power distribution/transmission network; a container; a superconductor contained in the container; a shunt disposed outside the container and in parallel with the superconductor; a cryogenic system configured to provide coolant into the container; and at least one sensor disposed near and configured to monitor at least one operating condition of at least one of the input current lead and the output current lead, the superconductor, and the shunt.
US08700102B2 Handheld electronic device using status awareness
Through status awareness, a handheld communications device may determine the location, activity, and/or physical or emotional state of the user. This information may in turn be used for various purposes, such as 1) determining how to alert the user of an incoming communication, 2) determining what format to use for communicating with the user, and 3) determining how to present the user's status to another person's communication device.
US08700099B2 Hinge unit and portable terminal
There are provided a hinge unit and portable terminal, even when a display housing is inverted to respond to demands for thin and light weight structure and high design quality, its display housing is always in a proper position. The display housing 1 has a display device 2 at its display housing front 1a. The display device 2 is made up of, for example, a liquid crystal display device and performs predetermined displaying. The shaft fitting section 3 is fitted in an end terminal region of one side of the display housing. A shaft 4 is inserted into the shaft fitting section 3 to support the display housing 1 in a manner to be freely inverted and fitted to the shaft fitting section 3 so that an axial center of the inverting axis forms a predetermined angle with a display surface of the display device 2.
US08700088B2 Fast adaptive power control for a variable multirate communications system
A system and a method of controlling transmitter power in a wireless communication system in which user data is processed as a multirate signal in which the user data signal having a first rate is converted into a transmission data signal having a faster second rate for transmission. The transmission power is adjusted on a relatively slow basis based on quality of data received by a receiver of the transmitted data. The transmitter power is determined as a function of the first and second rates such that a change in the data rate in the multiple channels or the rate of the transmission data signal is compensated in advance of a quality of data based adjustment associated with such data rate change.
US08700086B2 Method and apparatus for power control
A power control method is provided, which is applicable to the communication field. The method includes: obtaining power headroom information of an aggregated carrier of a User Equipment (UE), where the aggregated carrier includes at least one component carrier group and at least one first carrier, or includes at least one component carrier group, or includes at least two first carriers, the component carrier group includes at least two second carriers, and the first carrier and the second carrier are single carriers; and adjusting transmit power of the aggregated carrier according to the power headroom information. The method enables reporting of power headroom of an aggregated carrier of the UE in a multi-carrier scenario, so that the base station can control the transmitting power of the UE reliably, and therefore, reliability and throughput of the system are improved.
US08700082B2 Power control utilizing multiple rate interference indications
Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate mitigation of interference in a wireless communication environment. Terminals can utilize interference information provided by neighboring sectors to adjust transmit power and reduce interference. Access points can provide two sets or types of interference information. The first type can be transmitted over a large coverage area, requiring significant overhead and limiting the transmission rate. Access points can also provide a second set or type of interference information directed at smaller coverage area, such as an area proximate to the edge of the supported sector. This second type of interference information can be utilized by terminals that include the access point within their active set. The second set of interference information can be provided at a higher rate than the first set due to decreased overhead requirements. Terminals can utilize both sets of interference information to adjust transmit power.
US08700077B2 System and method for determining noise floor in a wireless communications environment
An electronic device includes communications circuitry configured to communicate with an assistance server. The electronic device has an antenna assembly having antenna configuration parameters including a gain profile and a direction. The electronic device transmits a noise floor data request to the assistance server, the noise floor data request including a location of the electronic device, an indication of the gain profile and the direction. The electronic device receives a noise floor value from the assistance server for at least one wireless communications channel, the noise floor value determined to account for the location of the electronic device, the gain profile and the direction of the antenna assembly.
US08700076B1 Clock synchronization among network stations
Communicating among stations in a network includes providing repeated beacon transmissions from at least some of the stations including a first station. The first station is assigned to a first level. Any stations that can reliably receive transmissions from the first station are assigned to a second level. Any stations not assigned to any of the preceding levels that can reliably receive transmissions from the preceding level are assigned to each of one or more higher levels. Timing information at each station in a given level is synchronized according to transmissions received from at least one station in the preceding level.
US08700071B2 Direct mobile station-to-mobile station communication of multimedia message service (MMS) messages
Multimedia message service (MMS) communications directly between mobile stations avoid interactions with a MMS Center (MMSC). In the examples, the originating station sends a short message service (SMS) message notifying the destination mobile station of the availability of the MMS message. This message provides an IP address of the originating station and an identifier for retrieval of the MMS message. In response, the destination mobile station sends back a packet message using the IP address of the originating station and the identifier, to request retrieval of the MMS message. The request message also includes an IP address for packet communication with the destination station. The originating mobile station uses that address for packet communication of the MMS message to the destination mobile station. In the examples, the destination station sends the MMS message to a regional node, for possible transcoding and/or to facilitate billing.
US08700069B2 Systems and methods for mobile terminal location determination using radio signal parameter measurements
A method and system for calculating the location of a mobile radio terminal in a radio communications network. The method provides for the collection of measurements of radio signal parameters at the mobile radio terminal which are then processed and transmitted to a network processor for calculating the location of the mobile radio terminal. The collected measurements may be filtered and subsets of the measurements may also be selected according to their suitability for particular applications.
US08700058B2 Position estimation of a wireless terminal in a structure using base station signal information
Wireless terminals are provided that comprise, for example, a wireless signal receiving portion that receives a wireless signal transmitted from a base station; a measurement portion that performs signal intensity measurement of the wireless signal; and an information transmitting portion that transmits pieces of measurement information acquired by the signal intensity measurement, and at least one piece of base station identification information that indicates a base station of a transmission source of the wireless signal and that is associated with each of the pieces of measurement information. The wireless terminals may also comprise, for example, an input portion for specifying information on a section of a building structure; an information acquisition portion for acquiring and transmitting measurement information to a position estimation server; a display screen generation portion; a display portion; and a registration request portion for transmitting registration request information to a position estimation server.
US08700051B2 Positioning of a wireless device served by a femto cell
Techniques for supporting positioning are described. In an aspect, positioning of mobile stations served by femto cells may be supported by having the femto cells transmit at least one identity used to differentiate the femto cells from other cells/sectors in a wireless network. The at least one identity may also convey certain information for the femto cells, which may be pertinent for positioning of the mobile stations. In one design, a femto cell may send the at least one identity assigned to the femto cell and the location of the femto cell to mobile stations as an aid for positioning. A mobile station may receive and forward the least one identity and the location of the femto cell to a location server. The mobile station and the location server may then perform positioning based on the at least one identity and the location of the femto cell.
US08700050B1 Method and system for authorizing location monitoring
Techniques for location tracking, location utilization, and dissemination and management of location information are disclosed. As a location monitoring system, one embodiment includes at least a plurality of mobile computing devices supported by a wireless network, and a computing device coupled to a wired network (e.g., the Internet) that couples to the wireless network. Each of the mobile computing devices is associated with and proximate to an object whose location is being monitored. The computing device stores the locations of each of the mobile computing devices or the objects proximate thereto, and enables only authorized users to obtain access the locations via the wired network.
US08700049B2 System and/or method for reducing initial position uncertainty in SPS operation
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a system and method for reducing an initial position uncertainty of a mobile station. In one example, although claimed subject matter is not so limited, a process to improve an initial position estimate comprises identifying the locations of a serving cell and at least one other landmark proximate to a receiver and determining an initial estimate of the location of the receiver based, at least in part, on the identified locations of the serving cell and the at least one other landmark.
US08700044B2 Method and system for communicating data from wireline terminals to mobile terminals
Methods and systems are provided for communicating data from wireline terminals to mobile terminals in a telecommunications network, which includes a home node associated with the mobile terminal and one or more visited nodes. To establish communication with a mobile terminal, a wireline terminal sends data to a server in the telecommunications network. The server identifies a mobile identification number associated with the mobile terminal, and based on the identified mobile identification number, the server determines a route that excludes the home node when the mobile terminal is out of the geographical area served by the home node. The server then establishes via the determined route a connection to the mobile terminal and sends to the mobile terminal the data received from the wireline terminal.
US08700035B2 Mobile terminal and method for displaying wireless devices thereof
A mobile terminal including a wireless communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate with wireless devices to be connected with the mobile terminal, a display unit configured to display information about the wireless devices, an input unit configured to input search information including at least one of a distance range to search for the wireless devices and a type of the wireless devices, and a controller configured to control the wireless communication unit to search for the wireless devices based on the input search information and to control the display unit to display responding wireless devices that responded to the search by the wireless communication unit according to the input search information.
US08700034B2 Querying a subscriber server for identities of multiple serving elements of user equipment (UE)
Systems and methods are disclosed that provide identities of multiple serving elements of user equipment (UE). In one embodiment, a subscriber server of a packet-switched data network stores data for the UE, which is served by the packet-switched data network. The subscriber server receives a user data request from a network element over a Diameter interface. In response to the user data request, the subscriber server identifies multiple serving elements where the UE is presently registered in the packet-switched data network and/or a legacy network. The subscriber server inserts identifiers for the multiple serving elements where the UE is presently registered in a user data answer, and transmits the user data answer to the network element over the Diameter interface.
US08700027B2 Method and apparatus for network analysis
A network analysis capability is provided herein. A network analysis capability supports proactive detection of service troubles in a network by looking at the network from the perspective of the end users. A proactive detection mechanism is provided by having end user devices (e.g., smartphones, computers, and the like) run background applications which monitor for service-impacting problems and autonomously report service-impacting problems when such problems are detected. A background application, before and/or after problems are detected, collects diagnostic information and forwards the diagnostic information to a network for analysis. A network node compiles and analyzes data collected from the end user devices, data collected from one or more network-based data collectors, and, optionally, information from one or more network support systems, to diagnose problems and dynamically respond, potentially before service is impacted.
US08700026B2 Controlled mobile communication as a service in a coverage area bounded by radiating cables
A method of providing controlled mobile communication as a service includes storing, in a memory associated with a data processing device and/or a base station controller, a level of control of wireless communication associated with a mobile device of a customer of the controlled mobile communication as a service. The wireless communication is provided through a mobile network operator. The method also includes identifying, through the base station controller, the mobile device based on an identification data associated therewith when the mobile device is within a controlled area associated with the controlled mobile communication service, and controlling the wireless communication associated with the mobile device of the customer through the base station controller in accordance with the level of control stored in the memory following the identification of the mobile device.
US08700024B2 System and method for enhanced directory assistance including commercial features
A method for enhanced commercial activities to a mobile device user includes providing a user with an application for use on a mobile wireless device and receiving an incoming communication from the wireless device via the application at an enhanced services platform of a directory assistance center. Stored account information, associated with the user is retrieved and a coded information is received from the wireless device, where the coded information is generated by the application based on input uploaded onto the wireless device by the user obtained from any one of the group selected from a product advertisement, a product price tag and digital image of a product. The coded information is parsed at the enhanced services platform, options are retrieved related to a product corresponding to the coded information and the user is provided with options relating to the product.
US08700015B2 Client and system for inserting advertisements into interactive content provided to mobile devices
A system for mobile devices that facilitates the creation and dissemination of interactive media to a plurality of mobile devices and PCs/laptops that comprise a client component. The interactive media may comprise of a list of products and services that are for sale and the user can select one or more for purchase. It may also comprise a list of real estate entries with associated user interest solicitation and the user can indicate his interest in one or more of the entries. The server can help the user make an appointment to view the corresponding real estate properties.
US08700007B1 Communication of events depicted in media to a wireless device
A method, system, and medium are provided for determining the geographic location associated with events depicted in media. The geographic locations can be provided by creators of the media, or by users who view the media. The geographic locations can then be stored in a database on a server. A determination can be made as to whether the geographic locations are within a predefined distance of the geographic location of a wireless device. A set of events located within the predefined distance can be presented to a user of the wireless device.
US08700004B2 Phone number encapsulation using token based framework
Embodiments of the invention related to a method for encapsulating phone numbers preferably using a token based framework and routing calls between users using such a token based framework, where the method comprises generating a set of tokens by a service provider for a phone number provided by the service provider, wherein the set of tokens comprise a generic token and a privacy token, the generic token maintained by the service provider and the privacy token distributed to a first user. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
US08700001B2 Radio communication method and network device for detecting unauthorized movement of a home radio base station
A mobile communication method according to the present invention includes step of managing identification information on a radio base station 201 and identification information on an information transfer device 502 in association with each other in a radio base station manager 13 by a network device 100, step of transmitting, when the radio base station 201 is moved, an installation signal from the radio base station 201 to an information transfer device 502 to which the radio base station is connected, step of transferring the received installation signal from the information transfer device 502 to which the radio base station is connected to the network device 100, and step of detecting by the network device 100 an unauthorized moving of the radio base station 201, in a case where the network device determines by referring to the radio base station information manager that the identification information on the radio base station included in the received installation signal and the identification information on the information transfer device to which the radio base station is connected are not managed in association with each other.
US08699980B2 Car audio system including an integrated module comprising a tuner unit and an active antenna
A car audio system having a tuner unit and an active antenna integrated into a single module, the car audio system being connected to an antenna for a vehicle and receiving broadcast signals, is provided. The car audio system includes an antenna-tuner integration module, in which the active antenna for receiving and amplifying the broadcast signals and the tuner unit for selecting a broadcast signal corresponding to a specific frequency among the received broadcast signals are formed as a single module; and a car audio device connected to the antenna-tuner integration module using a data cable of a certain length corresponding to a spaced distance for preventing effects of electrical noise generated by the vehicle.
US08699978B1 Increasing the robustness of channel estimates derived through sounding for WLAN
A plurality of training signal sets are transmitted. Each training signal set includes information sufficient to determine a channel estimate corresponding to a communication channel from a first station to a second station. A refined channel estimate is determined based on reception of the plurality of training signal sets.
US08699973B2 PA bias power supply efficiency optimization
A charge pump of a PA bias power supply, PA bias circuitry, and a process to optimize efficiency of the PA bias power supply are disclosed. The charge pump operates in one of multiple bias supply pump operating modes, which include at least a bias supply pump-up operating mode and a bias supply bypass operating mode. The process prevents selection of the bias supply bypass operating mode unless a DC power supply voltage is adequate to allow the PA bias circuitry to provide minimum output regulation voltage at a specified current. Otherwise, the bias supply pump-up operating mode is selected. The charge pump operates more efficiently in the bias supply bypass operating mode than in the bias supply pump-up operating mode; therefore, selection of the bias supply bypass operating mode, when possible, increases efficiency.
US08699967B2 Uplink transmit diversity enhancement
A method for uplink transmit diversity enhancement is disclosed. A subset of two or more potential uplink transmission configurations are determined. A subset of potential uplink transmission configurations is evaluated. An uplink transmission configuration is selected based on the evaluation. Metrics of the selected uplink transmission configuration are determined. The selected uplink transmission configuration is applied for an extended use period.
US08699965B2 Low loss quarter wave radio frequency relay switch apparatus and method
A low loss quarter wave Radio Frequency (RF) relay switch apparatus and method provides more efficient transmission of RF energy to downstream antenna switching elements in an antenna switching network. The antenna switching network may include multiple antenna multiplexer modules which are configured to operate in a local use configuration or a pass through configuration. The antenna multiplexer modules are designed for maximum efficiency in the pass through configuration acting virtually lossless when passing through RF energy.
US08699946B2 Contactless recharging of mobile terminal battery
A mobile terminal has a contactless function module that is used to perform a contactless transaction and also used to perform battery recharging. The mobile terminal has a power source operatively connected with the contactless function module and adapted to be recharged by induced current created by electromagnetic fields detected by the contactless function module.
US08699944B2 Device pairing using device generated sound
A system comprising includes a first device, a second device, and logic to enable the first and second devices to pair as a result of at least one sound.
US08699940B1 Interactive learning map
Assessment information relating to multiple, different types of assessments administered to a student is accessed. A learning map includes a plurality of cells. Each cell corresponds to a learning objective. A first performance level of the student is determined based on a first set of assessment items. A first one of the cells is modified to include a first indication of the first performance level. A second performance level of the student is determined based on a second set of assessment items, wherein the first set of assessments include at least one different assessment than the second set of assessments. A second one of the cells is modified to include a second indication of the second performance level. One or more learning map interfaces are displayed. The learning map interfaces are configured to display the learning map populated with performance information.
US08699938B2 Image forming apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus includes: a rotating member configured to rotate by being pushed by a leading edge of a sheet being conveyed; a sensor configured to output a signal corresponding to a position of the rotating member; a first abutting portion provided on the rotating member and with which the leading edge of the sheet being conveyed comes into contact; and a second abutting portion provided on the rotating member on a side opposite from the first abutting portion with respect to a rotation shaft of the rotating member and configured to come into contact with the sheet being conveyed in the course of the rotation of the rotating member by being pushed by the leading edge of the sheet being conveyed.
US08699929B2 Guide device with mechanism capable of minimizing damage to toner image and recording medium and fixing device and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A guide device includes a fixing exit guide, a first rotary body, a second rotary body disposed downstream from the first rotary body in a recording medium conveyance direction and partially protruding from a guide face through a slot of the fixing exit guide to contact and support an image side of a recording medium conveyed over the second rotary body, and at least one guide rib mounted on the guide face of the fixing exit guide and extending substantially in the recording medium conveyance direction. The guide rib includes a contact face contacting the image side of the recording medium and a downstream end disposed downstream from the contact face in the recording medium conveyance direction to overlap the second rotary body in cross-section taken along a direction orthogonal to an axial direction of the second rotary body.
US08699928B2 Fixing unit and electrophotographic apparatus having the same
A fixing unit includes: a heating roller; a pressing roller that is capable of being in pressure contact with the heating roller; a compressor that generates compressed air; an air tank that reserves therein the compressed air; a first pipe through which the compressed air generated by the compressor is fed into the air tank; an injection nozzle that is formed by the heating roller and the pressing roller and that causes the compressed air to blow a printing medium fed from the fixing nip; a second pipe through which the compressed air reserved in the air tank is fed into the injection nozzle; and a compressed air injection solenoid valve that is provided in middle of the second pipe. A droplet separator for separating a droplet from the compressed air is provided to the first pipe or to the second pipe.
US08699926B2 Developing device and image forming apparatus including the developing device
A developing device 2 includes a control member 116 for controlling an amount of a developer supplied to an image bearing member 3 by causing a developer captured on a surface of a developing sleeve 119 to be uniform in layer thickness. The control member 116 is arranged to face, via the developing sleeve 119, one (120b) of a plurality of magnetic poles provided inside the developing sleeve 119. Further, the control member 116 is arranged to be in parallel with a developing roller 114 in an axial direction of a magnet fixing shaft 126. The control member 116 is such a non-magnetic member that the nearest part of the non-magnetic member from the developing roller 114 has been caused to be ferromagnetic and has been magnetic-field oriented.
US08699921B2 Method for drying printed material
A method for drying printed material operates with the aid of a one-dimensional or two-dimensional array of radiation sources which can be driven individually or in groups. At the same time, the high-resolution image data describing the printing image or a content of printing forms for individual color separations is transformed into image data of lower resolution. Position data which describes the position of the printed image in the transport direction is also obtained from a device for transporting the printing material. Control data for modulation of an intensity of the radiation sources or groups of radiation sources of the array are generated from the image data of lower resolution and the position data, so that the printing material is swept over in the transport direction with time-modulated radiation points which in each case include a plurality of image points of the higher-resolution printed image.
US08699913B2 Image forming apparatus
Disclosed is an image forming apparatus that includes a body housing having an opening and a cover covering the opening, a body frame in the body housing for supporting thereon various component parts of the image forming apparatus, an image forming cartridge receivable into the body housing through the opening to be detachably supported on the body frame and a support assembly supporting the mounted image forming cartridge. The support assembly includes a locking member movable between a locking position at which the image forming cartridge is limited in its movement along the direction of separating away from the body frame and a releasing position at which the image forming cartridge is allowed to move away from the body frame. The support assembly further includes an elastic member elastically biasing the locking member to the releasing position and a pressing member provided on the cover for pressing the locking member to remain in the locking position when the covered is closed to cover the opening.
US08699910B2 Seal member for preventing leakage of micro-powder from rotating body
A seal member is described that is configured to prevent leakage of micro-powder from a rotating body such as a developing roller. The seal member of the rotating body of an image forming device using toner of the micro-powder includes base fabric consisting of knitting or fabric, loop-shaped pile yarn or cut-shaped pile yarn, which is supported on a surface of the base fabric by the entanglement or support of ground yarn of the base fabric, and a coating layer which has penetrated from a back surface of the base fabric to which a coating agent is applied to the side of pile yarn. A height of the coating agent which has penetrated from the back surface of the base fabric is the same as or less than a thickness of the base fabric which is configured by the height of the ground yarn which supports the pile yarn.
US08699907B2 System and method to remove surface contaminants from image transfer blanket
A cleaning system usable with an image forming apparatus, which includes an intermediate transfer member having an image transfer blanket, includes a cleaning unit including a cleaner roller having at least one channel to transport fluid therein and a cleaner receiving surface to receive a cleaner layer, and a control unit including a temperature control module to control transportation of the fluid through the at least one channel to regulate a temperature of the cleaner roller, with the cleaner layer formed on the cleaner receiving surface to remove surface contaminants from the image transfer blanket.
US08699900B2 Image processing apparatus and density correction method
An image processing apparatus includes an image forming unit, an image control unit, a sensor, and a correction unit. The image control unit controls the image forming unit to perform toner refresh which is an operation of outputting deteriorated toner at a high density, and controls the image forming unit to form a predetermined pattern. The sensor measures a density value of the formed image. The correction unit corrects the toner density for a high-density operation using the value measured from the image formed during the toner refresh and corrects the toner density for at least a low-density operation using the value measured from the predetermined pattern.
US08699887B1 Methods and systems for encoding and decoding visible light with data and illumination capability
A lighting system includes light fixtures not in communications with and not synchronized with one another, and one or more light sensors. Each light fixture separately emits data encoded visible light including light fixture information encoded therein in a manner that avoids visually perceptible flicker and enables light fixture information emitted by one light fixture to be distinguished from light fixture information emitted by other light fixtures. The light fixture information is encoded into data encoded visible light such that a difference between different levels of the data encoded visible light is indicative of an illumination capability of the light fixture and such that visually perceptible flicker is avoided. Each light sensor separately receives portions of data encoded light visible light emitted by multiple light fixtures and separately determines the identity of and the maximum and present illumination contributions for each light fixture.
US08699872B1 Optical communications system having redundant electronic modules for optical transceiver
An optical communications system includes a MSAP and an optical transceiver mounted at the MSAP that communicates over an optical network to at least one optical network terminal (ONT). A first electronic module is operatively connected to the optical transceiver and configured to control the optical transceiver and mounted at the MSAP separate from the optical transceiver. A redundant second electronic module is supported within the MSAP and mounted separate from the optical transceiver. A Mux/Demux module interconnects and supports the first and second electronic modules to form an integral unit and mounted at the MSAP separate from the optical transceiver. The Mux/Demux module is configured to switch the second electronic module into communication with the optical transceiver upon failure of the first electronic module.
US08699865B2 Decoy system, notably for improvised explosive devices
The decoy system, notably for terrestrial mines or improvised explosive devices, includes: a means of producing heat energy including an air or water boiler, a means of emitting radiation in the infrared spectrum including a chamber that is fed with fluid by the production means, the chamber being provided with internal fins able to promote a build-up of heat energy inside said chamber, at least one detection means for determining the temperature of the chamber or the temperature of the fluid between the production means and the emission means, and a control unit able to control the operation of the heat energy production means at least according to the determined temperature.
US08699864B2 Method and apparatus for receiving a digital signal and apparatus for recording and reproducing the digital signal
A method and apparatus is provided for receiving and/or reproducing a digital signal, capable of efficiently recording a compressed, packeted digital signal and inhibiting a copy thereof. An input packet signal is added with a time stamp indicating a relative time of an arrival of the packet, and the packet signals of digital information with the added time stamps are recorded at reduced intervals therebetween. In reproducing, a packet interval adjusting circuit restores the original packet intervals in accordance with the time stamps, and then a time stamp change circuit changes at least one bit of the time stamp and thereafter outputs the digital information.
US08699858B2 Combined visual and auditory processing
A computer-implemented method includes segmenting a plurality of video frames of a sequence of video frames into a first portion that includes a selected visual object represented in the video frame and a second portion that includes a background represented in the video frame. The selected visual object is selected by using a selection envelope.
US08699857B2 Reproducer, digital camera, slide show reproduction method, program, image display apparatus, image display method, image reproduction method, and image display program
A reproducer is provided with members shown below. Namely, the reproducer is provided with a storage part for storing images, a vibration detection part for detecting a vibration operation by a user, a switching instruction part for instructing switching of reproduction content in slide show reproduction based on a detection result from the vibration detection part, a synthesis processing part for performing creation processing of slide show images, which are images for the slide show reproduction, based on instructions of the switching instruction part, and a slide show control part for performing the slide show reproduction of the images stored in the storage part and the slide show images.
US08699854B2 Method for reproducing data recorded on an interactive recording medium in conjunction with associated auxiliary data
A method for reproducing data recorded on an interactive recording medium in conjunction with associated auxiliary data is disclosed. An interactive recording medium reproducing apparatus reproduces A/V data recorded on an interactive recording medium such as an interactive DVD in conjunction with contents data provided by a contents providing server using navigation information for the contents data also provided by the contents providing server, thereby allowing synchronized reproduction of data from different sources.
US08699846B2 Reproducing device, reproducing method, program, and data structure
A reproducing device includes: a reproducing unit to reproduce subtitle data in accordance with subtitle data included in a stream along with including moving picture data; wherein, with a section where display of the subtitle is constant as the display units of the subtitle, the subtitle data is classified into a display set which is the subtitle data in the display units; and the display set includes number-of-subtitles information representing the number of the subtitles to be displayed, and transparency information representing the transparency of the subtitles; and a display set during a non-display section which hides the subtitle includes the number-of-subtitles information representing that the number of the subtitles is 0, or the transparency information representing that the subtitle is completely transparent; and the reproducing unit reproduces 0 of the subtitles, or the subtitle that is completely transparent, in accordance with a display set during a non-display section.
US08699842B2 Image relay waveguide and method of producing same
Described are embodiments of a process including patterning one or more reflectors on a surface of a substrate of a material, the surface oriented at a selected angle relative to a (100) crystallographic plane of the material, and etching one or more reflectors in the surface, each reflector including one or more reflective surfaces formed by (111) crystallographic planes of the material. Also described are process embodiments for forming a molded waveguide including preparing a waveguide mold, the waveguide mold comprising a master mold including one or more reflectors on a surface of a substrate of a master mold material, the surface oriented at a selected angle relative to a (100) crystallographic plane of the material, each reflector including one or more reflective surfaces formed by (111) crystallographic planes of the material, injecting a waveguide material into the waveguide mold, and releasing the molded waveguide from the waveguide mold.
US08699832B2 Optical switch
A light-shielding portion (10) shields the light spot of output light output toward a shunt position α by a projecting portion (12). Hence, the output light output toward the shunt position α does not travel to an output port (111). This allows to prevent crosstalk.
US08699827B2 Imaging apparatus, signal processing method, and program
An imaging apparatus controls an input/output path of a memory differently for normal image generation and for wide dynamic range image generation. For normal image generation, image signals are stored into and read from a memory after image correction. For wide dynamic range image generation, image signals are stored into and read from the memory before the image signals are corrected.
US08699825B2 Consolidating information relating to duplicate images
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, are described for resolving duplicate images. In one aspect, a method includes obtaining a selection of a single image from among a plurality of duplicate images. Each duplicate image has an associated set of metadata. The method also includes aggregating each set of metadata into aggregated information, and storing the selected image together with the aggregated information on data storage accessible to a data processing apparatus.
US08699817B2 Reconstruction of phased array data
An image reconstruction method includes receiving volume data comprising a plurality of sampling points, determining a first conditioning of the sampling points suppressing low amplitudes and conserving maximum amplitudes, determining a second conditioning of the sampling points wherein an influence of a sampling point depends on its distance to a grid point in a sampling grid, determining a kernel comprising a plurality of weighting functions for the first conditioning and the second conditioning to determine an energy spread of each of the plurality of sampling points without determining a shape or size of the kernel, and outputting a reconstructed volume according to the energy spread of each of the plurality of sampling points.
US08699802B2 Information storage medium storing graphic data and apparatus and method of processing the graphic data
An information storage medium including graphic data and presentation information, and an apparatus and method of processing the graphic data are provided. The information storage medium includes the graphic data, page composition information which defines page composition of the graphic data, and the presentation information indicating when graphic screen data, which is composed with reference to the page composition information of the graphic data, is output to a display screen. Therefore, a graphic object is reusable in graphic data processing, and accordingly, a time taken to process the graphic data is reducible and memory area may be saved.
US08699801B2 Systems and methods for transmitting high dynamic range images
A method of processing an image, the image having pixel data with a bit range not capable of being encoded in a selected encoding format, the method comprising: splitting the pixel data into a base channel and at least one delta channel, at least one of the base channel and the at least one delta channel capable of being encoded in the selected encoding format; encoding at least one of the base channel and the at least one delta channel; transmitting the base channel and the at least one delta channel to a client; decoding the base channel and the at least one delta channel at the client; and recombining the base channel and the at least one delta channel at the client to form the pixel data. In some embodiments, the method further comprises: applying a window level to the pixel data formed from said recombining; and displaying the window level on a display.
US08699800B1 User correction of pose for street-level images
A system, computer-implemented method and computer-readable medium for correcting existing coordinates of an image. The image is provided to the client device, the image associated with a first geographic coordinate. A second geographic coordinate is received from the client device representing a location of the client device and an indication that the image resembles surroundings of the client device at the second geographic coordinate, where the second geographic coordinate is different from the first second geographic coordinate. A determination is made as to whether the received second geographic coordinate more accurately represents a location of a camera that took the image than the first geographic coordinate. When the received second coordinate is determined to be more accurate than the first coordinate, updating the first geographic coordinate associated with the image according to the received second geographic coordinate.
US08699790B2 Method for pan-sharpening panchromatic and multispectral images using wavelet dictionaries
A method Pan-sharpens a single panchromatic (Pan) image and a single multispectral (MS) image. A wavelet transform is applied to the Pan image and the MS image to obtain a wavelet transformed Pan image and a wavelet transformed MS image. Features, in the form of vectors, are extracted from the wavelet transformed Pan image and the wavelet transformed MS image. The features are separated into features without missing values and features with missing values. A dictionary is learned from features without missing values and used to predict the values for the features with the missing values. After the predicting, the features of the low frequency wavelet coefficients and the high frequency coefficients to form a fused wavelet coefficient map, and an inverse wavelet transform is applied to the fused wavelet coefficient map to obtain a fused MS image.
US08699789B2 Document classification using multiple views
A training system, training method, and a system and method of use of a trained classification system are provided. A classifier may be trained with a first “cheap” view but not using a second “costly” view of each of the training samples, which is not available at test time. The two views of samples are each defined in a respective original feature space. An embedding function is learned for embedding at least the first view of the training samples into a common feature space in which the second view can also be embedded or is the same as the second view original feature space. Labeled training samples (first view only) for training the classifier are embedded into the common feature space using the learned embedding function. The trained classifier can be used to predict labels for test samples for which the first view has been embedded in the common feature space with the embedding function.
US08699787B2 Method and system for generating a 3D model from images
A method for generating a three dimensional (3D) model of an object from a series of two dimensional (2D) images is described. The series of 2D images depict varying views of the object and have associated camera parameter information. The method includes the steps of tracing the object in a first 2D image selected from the series of 2D images to provide a first set of tracing information, then tracing the object in a second 2D image selected from the series of 2D images to provide a second set of tracing information. The 3D model of the object is then generated based on the camera parameter information and the first and second sets of tracing information.
US08699779B1 Systems and methods for alignment of check during mobile deposit
An alignment guide may be provided in the field of view of a camera associated with a mobile device used to capture an image of a check. When the image of the check is within the alignment guide in the field of view, an image may be taken by the camera and provided from the mobile device to a financial institution. The alignment guide may be adjustable at the mobile device. The image capture may be performed automatically by the camera or the mobile device as soon as the image of the check is determined to be within the alignment guide. The check may be deposited in a user's bank account based on the image. Any technique for sending the image to the financial institution may be used.
US08699771B2 Method and apparatus for reducing motion-related imaging artifacts
A method and apparatus are provided for reducing motion related imaging artifacts. The method includes obtaining an image data set of a region of interest in an object, obtaining a motion signal indicative of motion of the region of interest, determining at least one quiescent period of at least a portion of the motion signal, extracting image data from the image data set that is within the determined quiescent period to form an image data subset, and generating an image of the region of interest using the image data subset.
US08699770B2 Identification of regions of interest and extraction of time value curves in imaging procedures
A method of extracting at least one time-value curve to determine a protocol in an imaging procedure using an imaging system, includes: determining a first N-dimensional data set of pixel values of a portion of a body of the patient at a first time using the imaging system, wherein N is an integer; determining at least a second N-dimensional data set of pixel values of the portion at a second time using the imaging system; computing a predetermined number of correlated segments of the imaged portion corresponding to a predetermined number of regions of interest of the patient by computing a similarity metric of a time series of pixel values; computing the at least one time-value curve for at least one of the regions of interest; and determining a protocol for a diagnostic scan using the image system based at least in part upon data from the time value curve.
US08699769B2 Generating artificial hyperspectral images using correlated analysis of co-registered images
High-resolution digital images of adjacent slices of a tissue sample are acquired, and tiles are defined in the images. Values associated with image objects detected in each tile are calculated. The tiles in adjacent images are co-registered. A first hyperspectral image is generated using a first image, and a second hyperspectral image is generated using a second image. A first pixel of the first hyperspectral image has a first pixel value corresponding to a local value obtained using image analysis on a tile in the first image. A second pixel of the second hyperspectral image has a second pixel value corresponding to a local value calculated from a tile in the second image. A third hyperspectral image is generated by combining the first and second hyperspectral images. The third hyperspectral image is then displayed on a computer monitor using a false-color encoding generated using the first and second pixel values.
US08699768B2 Scan plan field of view adjustor, determiner, and/or quality assessor
A method includes using a pre-scan image to define a scan field of view for a region of interest of a patient to be scanned for at least one image acquisition of a series of image acquisitions of a scan plan, performing an image acquisition of the series based on a corresponding scan field of view for the image acquisition, and determining, via a processor (120), a next field of view for a next image acquisition of the series based on available image related data.
US08699766B2 Method and apparatus for extracting and measuring object of interest from an image
A method and an apparatus for extracting an object of interest from an image and measuring parameters of the object of interest are provided.
US08699762B2 Multi-sided card having a resistive fingerprint imaging array
Embodiments of the present invention provide an adaptive and intelligent fingerprint scanning device and approach for a multi-sided card. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention utilize DC resistive image scanning to reduce overall scanning time and energy consumption (e.g., by identifying a targeted scanning area). In a typical embodiment, a scanning device will be provided that includes a scanning area comprised of a set (e.g., at least one) of imaging pixel electrodes (e.g., arranged adjacent to one another in a grid-like or other fashion). As a user presses his/her finger against the scanning area, a first portion of the finger will contact a first electrode while a second portion of the finger will contact a second electrode. When this occurs, a voltage source of the device will apply an initial voltage across the first and second finger portions. A meter of the device will take an electrical measurement (e.g., resistance and/or charged skin voltage) across the two finger portions. Based on the electrical measurement, a location of the finger on the device will be identified, and the fingerprint will be scanned accordingly. Thus, the entire scanning surface need not be scanned, only the portions thereof where the finger was detected.
US08699756B2 Geodetic measuring device
Geodetic measuring device that has an angle and distance measuring functionality for determining a position of a target object. For this purpose, the measuring device comprises a sighting device having a lens that magnifies multiplicatively, a camera sensor comprising a plurality of image recording points for recording a camera image of a field of view, a focusing optical system arranged in front of the camera sensor—wherein a first optical path is defined between the lens and the camera sensor—and an ocular. The camera sensor is connected to an electronic graphics processor for generating a display image from the camera image. The sighting device comprises an electronic graphical display component arranged in front of the ocular for visually presenting the generated display image, wherein a second optical path separated from the first optical path by the display image is defined between the display component and the ocular.
US08699755B2 Determining travel path features based on retroreflectivity
Systems, devices, features, and methods for determining geographic features corresponding to a travel path to develop a map database, such as a navigation database, are disclosed. For example, one method comprises emitting light from a light source, such as a LIDAR device, while on the travel path. Returning light is received based on the emitted light. The returning light is used to generate data points representing an area about the travel path. The data points are filtered as a function of a return intensity value to identify a feature associated with the travel path, in which the feature is treated with a retroreflective substance.
US08699748B2 Tracking system and method for regions of interest and computer program product thereof
In one exemplary embodiment, a tracking system for region-of-interest (ROI) performs a feature-point detection locally on an ROI of an image frame at an initial time via a feature point detecting and tracking module, and tracks the detected features. A linear transformation module finds out a transform relationship between two ROIs of two consecutive image frames, by using a plurality of corresponding feature points. An estimation and update module predicts and corrects a moving location for the ROI at a current time. Based on the result corrected by the estimation and update module, an outlier rejection module removes at least an outlier outside the ROI.
US08699744B2 Speaker, hearing aid, inner-ear headphone, portable information processing device, and AV device
A speaker including: a chassis internally including a magnet; a plate attached to a top face of the magnet; a voice coil disposed in a magnetic air gap formed in an outer perimeter of the plate so as to be vibratable in a vertical direction; a diaphragm having a periphery that is connected to an upper end of the voice coil; and a suspension connecting the diaphragm and the chassis. The suspension includes a first fixing part fixed to the diaphragm and a second fixing part fixed to the chassis. The second fixing part is positioned above the first fixing part, and at least one of the first fixing part and the second fixing part is disposed in an inner region which is a region located inward of the periphery of the diaphragm as seen from above.
US08699742B2 Sound system and a method for providing sound
A sound system, the sound system including: (a) a signal processor that is adapted to generate a first sound signal and a second sound signal, to provide the first sound signal to a loudspeaker; and to provide the second sound signal to a bone conduction speaker; and (b) the bone conduction speaker that is adapted to transduce the second signal to a bone conductible sound signal that is carried in a bone of a user.
US08699738B2 Speaker system with resonance frequency approximately identical to the peak frequency of the sound pressure
A speaker system includes: a speaker cabinet; a speaker unit installed in a wall surface of said speaker cabinet; and an acoustic tube having ends, one of which is open and the other of which is closed, in which said acoustic tube is provided in said speaker cabinet such that a side wall surface of said acoustic tube crosses a direction in which standing waves propagates, the waves occurring inside said speaker cabinet.
US08699727B2 Visually-assisted mixing of audio using a spectral analyzer
Processor-implemented methods and systems for visually-assisted mixing of audio using a spectral analyzer are disclosed. The system calculates and displays a spectral view for each track in an arrangement in a multi-track view. A user can then request modification of the spectral view. In response to this request for modification, the system automatically adjusts associated mixing parameters for the modified track so that the spectral output of the track substantially matches the user-requested modified spectral view. This allows a user to visually mix an arrangement by imputing a desired spectral result and having the program make the changes necessary to achieve it.
US08699726B2 Apparatus and method for biasing a transducer
An apparatus comprising a capacitive transducer, for example a MEMS microphone. A first voltage generator is connected to receive a first voltage (VDD*) and generate a second voltage (VCP) for biasing the capacitive transducer. A control circuit is adapted to, in use, control the first voltage (VDD*) based on a calibration value, wherein a different calibration value would lead to a different first voltage level and the calibration value is set such that an input signal of known amplitude produces an output signal of predetermined amplitude.
US08699724B2 Volume scale selection
Embodiments herein relate to volume scale selection by a computing device. In an embodiment, the computing device includes a rotational device to assert a volume signal when the rotational device is rotated. Further, the computing device is to select one of a plurality of volume scales based on whether a peripheral audio device is connected to the computing device and is to correlate the volume signal to one of a plurality of values of the selected volume scale.
US08699723B2 Audio device volume manager using measured volume perceived at a first audio device to control volume generation by a second audio device
An audio system includes a first audio device and a second audio device. A communications link connects the first and second audio devices together so that each may communicate with the other. The system includes an audio volume manager that varies the audio output level of the second audio device as a function of the perceived loudness of the second audio device as perceived at the first audio device.
US08699721B2 Calibrating a dual omnidirectional microphone array (DOMA)
Systems and methods are described by which microphones comprising a mechanical filter can be accurately calibrated to each other in both amplitude and phase.
US08699715B1 On-demand proactive epoch control for cryptographic devices
A first cryptographic device is configured to store secret information that is refreshed in each of a plurality of epochs. The first cryptographic device receives an epoch control signal, and adjusts at least one epoch responsive to the received epoch control signal. Refreshed secret information associated with an adjusted epoch is utilized to authenticate the first cryptographic device to at least a second cryptographic device, where the second cryptographic device and one or more additional cryptographic devices store respective portions of the secret information in a distributed manner. By way of example, the epoch control signal may comprise an epoch advance signal directing that the first cryptographic device advance from a current one of the epochs to a subsequent one of the epochs. In an illustrative embodiment, the first cryptographic device comprises an authentication token and the second cryptographic device comprises an authentication server.
US08699714B2 Distributed PUF
An electronic system (100) having a memory (1 12, 1 14, 1 16) with multiple memory locations, each specific memory location of the multiple memory locations being arranged to produce a respective value, the respective value depending on a physical, at least partially random, configuration of components constructing the specific memory location, the electronic system comprises a key extraction means (130) arranged to retrieve multiple values in a first order from the multiple memory locations and for determining a reproducible cryptographic key in dependency on the multiple values, characterized in that the electronic system further comprises a re-ordering (120) means in between the memory and the key extraction means for providing the multiple values to the key extraction means in a second order, different from the first order, prior to determining the cryptographic key.
US08699711B2 Method and apparatus to implement security in a long term evolution wireless device
A wireless transmit receive unit (WTRU) is configured to receive unciphered and ciphered messages. The unciphered messages include identity requests, authentication requests, non-access stratum (NAS) security mode commands and tracking area update responses. The ciphered messages may come from the NAS and a Radio Resource Controller (RRC). The messages are ciphered using security keys.
US08699708B2 Light-weight security solution for host-based mobility and multihoming protocols
A transport connection system is set forth. The system includes a first device adapted to send and receive messages. A second device, adapted to send and receive message, is also provided. A message i generated by the first device includes a secret Ri-1 to a Hash (Ri-1) sent from the first device to the second device in a prior message i-1. The message i is signed by a random key Ai-1, the random key being derived from an update of a key Ai-2 from the prior message, wherein message i-1 is signed by the key Ai-2.
US08699705B2 Computer implemented method for generating a set of identifiers from a private key, computer implemented method and computing device
The invention relates to a computer implemented method for generating a set of identifiers from a private key, the method comprising the steps of: calculating a set of public keys, wherein the private key and each public key of the set of public keys form an asymmetric cryptographic key pair; and outputting the identifiers comprising the public keys.
US08699702B2 Securing cryptographic process keys using internal structures
In the field of cryptography, such as for a computer enabled block cipher, a cipher or other cryptographic process is hardened against an attack by protecting the cipher key or subkeys by using a masking process for these keys. The subkeys are thereby protected by applying to them a mask or set of masks to hide their contents. This is especially advantageous in a “White Box” computing environment where an attacker has full access to the cipher algorithm, including the algorithm's internal state during execution. Further, this method and the associated apparatus are useful where the key is derived through a process and so is unknown when the software code embodying the cipher is compiled. This is typically the case where there are many users of the cipher and each has his own key or where each user session has its own key.
US08699697B2 Providing caller-specific information
A method may include receiving a call from a caller and interacting with the caller, via an interactive voice response (IVR) unit, to identify first information associated with a reason for the call. The method may also include accessing a database storing second information associated with the caller, identifying third information to be provided to the caller based on the stored second information and providing the third information to the caller prior to forwarding the call to an agent.
US08699696B1 System and method for efficiently managing large contact centers
Provided is a system and method that identifies a characteristic associated with a resource. A resource can be, for example, an agent in a contact center. An identifier, representing the characteristic is associated with the resource (e.g., a bit) is stored in a first memory location. A characteristic associated with a work item is identified. The characteristic associated with the work item can be for example, a type of communication (e.g., email, voice, video, etc.), a company represented by the work item, and the like. The identifier representing the characteristic associated with the work item is stored in a second memory location. The first memory location is bit masked and compared with the second memory location to determine if the resource should process the work item. In response to determining that the resource should process the work item, the work item is routed to the resource, such as an agent.
US08699693B1 System, method, and computer readable medium for routing an agent to a preferred communications platform in order to receive a customer call
A system and method for routing an agent to a preferred communications platform in order to receive a customer call. The system may include a web server call notification module that receives an automatic number identification and information relating to an establishment whose phone number was dialed, and a virtual automated call distributor (VACD). Further, the system may include an interactive voice response (IVR) system that requests an agent's identification from the VACD, wherein the VACD and the web server are coupled to the IVR system, and wherein the VACD selects the agent's identification and routes a customer's information to an agent desktop environment (ADE) coupled to the VACD. Also included may be an access platform that receives the customer's information and updates an ADE phone control state session on an agent's desktop, wherein the customer's information is routed to the ADE environment through a message transfer layer.
US08699691B2 Multi-tasking relief
A contact center is described along with various methods and mechanisms for administering the same. The contact center proposed herein provides the ability to, among other things, determine performance efficiencies/metric associated with one or more multi-tasking agents and provide relief to agents based on rules. This multi-tasking relief may be provided to the one or more agents via reducing an amount of multi-tasking work, inserting breaks into the agent's work flow, and/or directing work items to other resources.
US08699687B2 Methods, systems, and computer program products for providing automated call acknowledgement and answering services
A method, system, and computer program product for responding to an incoming communication attempt, sent from a sender to a recipient. The method includes receiving the incoming communication attempt and presenting options for responding to the incoming communication attempt. The options include at least one of acknowledgement message options and communication answering-related options. The method also includes receiving an option selection and responding to the incoming communication attempt according to the instructions of the selected option. The acknowledgement message options provide information to the sender without requiring that the recipient answer the incoming communication attempt.
US08699686B2 Method and apparatus for join selection of a conference call
A method for join selection of a conference call from a communication device, wherein the communication device includes a memory for storing an event record. The method includes: identifying from the event record one or more addresses for contacting a conference call server for establishing a scheduled conference call session; automatically selecting, based on specified criteria, one of the addresses as a default address associated with a default join option for establishing the scheduled conference call session; generating an identifier for associating the selected default address with the default join option; and storing the identifier in the memory.
US08699682B2 System and method for providing custom Caller-ID messages
Systems and methods for providing a message in Caller-ID information are described. In one embodiment of the present invention, an applications server, such as service control point (SCP), substitutes a message for Caller-ID information when a switch serving the called party's line requests the Caller-ID information. An embodiment may also include an application that provides a user interface, for example, a web-enabled interface, to allow the subscriber to add or change the message.
US08699681B2 Method and apparatus for monitoring blocked calls in a communication network
Method and apparatus for monitoring a communication network is described. In one example, call detail record data generated by network elements in the communication network is parsed to identify occurrence of a plurality of blocked calls over a time period. A plurality of consolidated call detail records for the plurality of blocked calls are respectively generated from the call detail record data. Each of the plurality of consolidated call detail records includes an originating telephone number. The originating telephone number of each of the plurality of consolidated call detail records is then processed to identify unique originating telephone numbers for the plurality of blocked calls.
US08699664B2 Systems and methods for optimization of on-line adaptive radiation therapy
Radiation treatment methods comprise: obtaining initial image data of a region of interest; initially optimizing one or more radiation delivery variables of a radiation treatment plan based on the initial image data; and dividing the plan into one or more fractional treatments. Each fractional treatment comprises: delivering an initial portion of a fraction based on the one or more initially optimized radiation delivery variables; obtaining fractional image data pertaining to the region of interest; fractionally optimizing the one or more radiation delivery variables based at least in part on the fractional image data; and delivering a subsequent portion of the fraction based on the one or more fractionally optimized radiation delivery variables. At least part of delivering the initial portion of the fraction overlaps temporally with at least one of: obtaining the fractional image data and fractionally optimizing the one or more radiation delivery variables.
US08699654B2 Method comprising measurement on fuel channels of fuel assemblies for nuclear boiling water reactors
The invention concerns a method comprising measurement on a fuel channel (14) of fuel assemblies (8) for nuclear boiling water reactors. The method comprises that: the measurement is done by the use of a non-destructive inductive eddy current measurement method, the measurement is done on a fuel channel (14) which has been used at least a certain time during operation in the core of a nuclear boiling water reactor, the measurement is done when the fuel channel (14) is located in water, the measurement is done on different places on the fuel channel (14), wherein through the method at least the hydride content of the fuel channel (14) at said places is determined. The method can be used in order to find out how shadow corrosion from a neighboring control rod influences the properties of the fuel channel (14).
US08699646B2 Media clock negotiation
Media Clock Negotiation (MCN) Advertise packets may advertise one or more media clock streams. Each media clock stream may include values of a real-time clock sampled according to a first media clock. A second media clock may be recoverable from the media clock stream such that the second media clock is synchronized with the first media clock. One or more transmitters that receive the packets may determine whether the advertised media clock stream meets a set of media clock conditions. If the advertised media clock stream meets the set of media clock conditions, then the transmitter may add the advertised media clock stream to a set of qualified streams. Each transmitter may select a reference media clock stream from the set of qualified streams. By selecting the same reference media clock stream, media clocks at two or more transmitters may be synchronized.
US08699643B2 Apparatus and method for receiving a signal
Provided are an apparatus and method for acquiring a signal to noise ratio (SNR) gain and a diversity gain using multiple antennas for receiving data, and an apparatus for receiving a signal using multiple antennas. The apparatus may receive on-off keying modulated signals through K receiving antennas, detect envelopes with respect to each of the signals received through the K receiving antennas, combine signals generated by performing a linear processing and a nonlinear processing with respect to each of the K detected envelopes, and determine a message value of the on-off keying modulated signals.
US08699638B2 Method and device for implementing automatic frequency control
The present invention discloses a method for implementing automatic frequency control, and an apparatus thereof. The method discloses: calculating a correlation value of common pilot symbols in a reception signal of each path and a frequency offset value, calculating a combined frequency offset value according to the frequency offset value of each path, and determining, according to the combined frequency offset value, a frequency offset adjustment value for a voltage controlled oscillator, a frequency offset adjustment value for overall reception signals and a frequency offset adjustment value for the reception signal of each path. The present invention selects a method of small-scope frequency offset estimation, which makes frequency offset estimation more accurate.
US08699632B2 OFDM reception device, OFDM reception circuit, OFDM reception method, and OFDM reception program
An OFDM reception device receives an OFDM symbol that includes a signal for a useful symbol duration generated based on transmission information and a signal for a guard interval duration generated based on the signal for the useful symbol duration. The OFDM reception device includes a first orthogonal transformation unit configured to perform an orthogonal transformation on the signal for the useful symbol duration, a second orthogonal transformation unit configured to perform an orthogonal transformation on the signal for the guard interval duration, and a decoding unit configured to decode the OFDM symbol in accordance with results of the orthogonal transformation by the first orthogonal transformation unit and results of the orthogonal transformation by the second orthogonal transformation unit.
US08699628B2 Signal demodulation method and apparatus and signal modulation method and apparatus in return link of satellite system
A technology for modulating and demodulating a burst signal in a return link of a satellite system, in which the burst signal is modulated and transmitted from a transmission end of the return link and a symbol of the burst signal is identified and demodulated at a receiving end. The method includes estimating symbol timing of a burst received through the return link and synchronizing the estimated symbol timing of the burst to reference symbol timing; synchronizing a location of the timing-synchronized burst having the symbol timing synchronized to a location of a reference burst using a preamble symbol and a post-amble symbol of the timing-synchronized burst; and recovering a carrier of the location-synchronized burst whose location has been synchronized to the location of the reference burst using a pilot symbol of the location-synchronized burst.
US08699617B2 Transmitter, receiver, method for transmitting and method for receiving
According to an embodiment, a transmitter is described comprising an input configured to receive a plurality of symbols to be transmitted and a timing circuit configured to associate each symbol with a symbol transmission period of a predefined sequence of symbol transmission periods, wherein the symbol transmission periods of the sequence of symbol transmission periods are at least partially different.
US08699615B2 Simultaneous communications jamming and enabling on a same frequency band
There is described the use of Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) modules to jam certain communication signals while allowing others to be received on a given frequency band. The DRFM modules exploit the multi-path phenomenon by using transmitted signals to cause full band destructive echoes and/or distortions. A set of receivers used in conjunction with the DRFM modules are aware of the exact multi-path induced by the DRFM modules and are therefore able to mitigate or even benefit from the effects of the destructive multi-path and maintain or improve communications.
US08699613B2 Wireless communication system, wireless communication apparatus, and wireless communication method
A wireless communication system is disclosed. The system performs data transmission from a first terminal including N antennas to a second terminal including M antennas using spatially multiplexed streams (N and M are integers larger than or equal to 2).
US08699597B2 Method for the spectral configuration of signals modulated by means of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) for an electrical network
A transceiver includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter receives a first orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signal, and generates a first analog signal based on the first OFDM signal. The first OFDM signal has a first bandwidth, a first spectral position, and a first frequency spectrum. The first frequency spectrum of the first OFDM signal has a first set of frequencies with first amplitudes. The receiver receives a second analog signal, and generates a second OFDM signal based on the second analog signal. The second OFDM signal has a second bandwidth, a second spectral position, and a second frequency spectrum. The second frequency spectrum of the second OFDM signal has a second set of frequencies with second amplitudes. The transmitter varies the first bandwidth, the first spectral position, and the first amplitudes independent of the second bandwidth, the second spectral position, and the second amplitudes.
US08699595B2 Integrated circuit with channel estimation module and method therefor
An integrated circuit comprises channel estimation module for generating at least one channel estimation signal based on at least one of a plurality of pilot signals within concurrent resource elements. The channel estimation module comprising extension module arranged to receive a demodulation reference signal comprises the plurality of pilot signals and to add an extension to the demodulation reference signal, inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT) module arranged to perform an inverse discrete Fourier transform function on the extended demodulation reference signal to generate a time domain reference signal, reference signal separation module arranged to separate out at least one pilot signal component from the time domain reference signal. The channel estimation module further comprises and discrete Fourier transform (DFT) module arranged to perform a discrete Fourier transform function on the at least one pilot signal component to generate at least one extended channel estimation signal.
US08699588B2 Self-adaptive frequency interpolator for use in a multi-carrier receiver
A Digital Video Broadcasting-Terrestrial/Handheld (DVB-T/H) receiver comprises a controller and a frequency interpolator for use in estimating channel state information (CSI) information of a received signal by frequency interpolation. The controller determines a multi-path delay (Tmax) for the received signal and adjusts the bandwidth of the frequency interpolator as a function of the determined multi-path delay. For example, when the multi-path delay is small, the bandwidth of the frequency interpolator is adjusted to be smaller than the bandwidth of the frequency interpolator when the multi-path delay is large. In addition, the controller may also change the coefficients of the frequency interpolator such that different word lengths are used for the coefficients as a function of the determined multi-path delay.
US08699587B2 Feedback of precoding control indication (PCI) and channel quality indication (CQI) in a wireless communication system
Techniques for sending feedback information in a wireless communication system are described. In one design, precoding control indication (PCI), rank, and channel quality indication (CQI) for data transmission from a transmitter to a receiver may be determined by evaluating different hypotheses. A report may be formed based on the PCI, rank and CQI. The PCI may include a precoding matrix or vector to use for the data transmission. The CQI may include at least one CQI value for at least one transport block to send for the data transmission. The rank and CQI may be combined based on a mapping. For example, the CQI may include one CQI value and fall within a first range of values if one transport block is preferred by the receiver. The CQI may include two CQI values and fall within a second range of values if two transport blocks are preferred.
US08699572B2 Referenceable frame expiration
Coding techniques for a video image compression system involve improving an image quality of a sequence of two or more bi-directionally predicted intermediate frames, where each of the frames includes multiple pixels. One method involves determining a brightness value of at least one pixel of each bi-directionally predicted intermediate frame in the sequence as an equal average of brightness values of pixels in non-bidirectionally predicted frames bracketing the sequence of bi-directionally predicted intermediate frames. The brightness values of the pixels in at least one of the non-bidirectionally predicted frames is converted from a non-linear representation.
US08699558B1 Decoupling and pipelining of multiplexer loop in parallel processing decision-feedback circuits
This invention discloses circuit and methods to decouple and pipeline block decision feedback multiplexer (MUX) loop in parallel processing decision feedback circuits. In one embodiment of this invention, a block decision feedback MUX loop consists of a pipelined intra-block decision feedback MUX stage and an inter-block decision feedback MUX stage to handle intra-block decision feedback selection and inter-block decision feedback selection separately. In the pipelined intra-block decision feedback stage, inter-block dependency is eliminated to enable pipelining. In another embodiment of this invention for moderately timing-critical parallel processing decision feedback circuits, a block decision feedback MUX loop is piecewise split into multiple series connected segments that each segment contains parallel branches. The intra-segment decision feedback selections of different segments are decoupled and processed in parallel. The selections of final decision signals of different branches in a segment are parallelized.
US08699553B2 Data-aided SIR estimation
A signal-to-interference estimate is generated using unknown data symbols in place of or in addition to pilot symbols. Data received over a data channel (traffic channel or control channel) are collected. The data symbols are then used to compute an observation metric based on deviations of the data symbols from a predetermined set of possible data symbols, wherein one of the data symbols and symbol constellation is normalized. A data channel signal-to-interference ratio is then computed based on the observation metric.
US08699532B2 Optical scanning and imaging systems based on dual pulsed laser systems
The invention relates to scanning pulsed laser systems for optical imaging. Coherent dual scanning laser systems (CDSL) are disclosed and some applications thereof. Various alternatives for implementation are illustrated, including highly integrated configurations. In at least one embodiment a coherent dual scanning laser system (CDSL) includes two passively modelocked fiber oscillators. The oscillators are configured to operate at slightly different repetition rates, such that a difference δfr in repetition rates is small compared to the values fr1 and fr2 of the repetition rates of the oscillators. The CDSL system also includes a non-linear frequency conversion section optically connected to each oscillator. The section includes a non-linear optical element generating a frequency converted spectral output having a spectral bandwidth and a frequency comb comprising harmonics of the oscillator repetition rates. A CDSL may be arranged in an imaging system for one or more of optical imaging, microscopy, micro-spectroscopy and/or THz imaging.
US08699530B2 Apparatus and methods for multi-stage multiplexing in a network
Methods and apparatus for performing multiplexing of video or other content (e.g., programs) within a network using feed-back from a subsequent digital program insertion stage, and/or feed-forward information from a prior multiplexing stage. In one embodiment, the network comprises a hybrid fiber coax (HFC) cable network having headend and hub-based statistical multiplexing stages, and communication between the two stages is used to improve the visual quality performance and bandwidth utilization of the output multi-program stream during conditions where downstream content is inserted into the transport stream. Business methods associated with the various multiplexing features described above are also disclosed.
US08699529B2 Broadband pilot channel estimation using a reduced order FFT and a hardware interpolator
Within a receiver, a channel estimation mechanism involves a hardware interpolator. In a first mode, narrowband pilot values are analyzed to generate channel parameters that are supplied to the interpolator such that the interpolator generates channel estimate values. The channel estimate values are used to demodulate a tile of a frame. In a second mode, broadband pilot values are supplied to an IFFT, thereby generating time domain values. After time domain processing, an FFT is employed to generate intermediate channel estimate values. These intermediate values are analyzed to determine channel parameters, which in turn are supplied to the hardware interpolator so that the interpolator generates a larger number of channel estimate values. After phase adjustment, the channel estimate values are used in demodulation. Use of the interpolator in the broadband mode allows the FFT employed to be of a smaller order, and to consume less power and/or processing resources.
US08699527B2 Encoding/transmitting apparatus and encoding/transmitting method
An encoding/transmitting apparatus that is used to transmit moving-picture data from a transmitting side to a receiving side through a transmission path and to subject the moving-picture data to streaming in the receiving side has an external-output request determining unit that monitors the state of a network. If the network assumes an undesirable state, the request determining unit causes a multiplex output unit to stop multiplexing data. When the network assumes a desirable state, the multiplex unit starts multiplexing the data again. A video encoding unit and an audio encoding unit keep encoding data, whether the multiplex output unit is multiplexing data or not. When the area occupied by encoded data in an encoded-video-data storage unit and the area occupied by encoded data in an encoded-audio-data storage unit exceed a predetermined value, the encoding units stop encoding data, and wait until the area occupied by encoded data sufficiently decreases.
US08699520B2 Computer device, receiving device, receiving method, and computer readable storage medium storing instructions of a computer program thereof
A computer device includes a data packet buffer, an improving quality packet buffer, a correspondence memory, an improving quality processing unit, an operation controller, and a recovered data packet processing unit. The data packet buffer stores data packets of streams. The improving quality packet buffer stores an improving quality packet including a redundant data and identification information. The correspondence memory stores a correspondence between the improving quality packet and the data packets. The improving quality processing unit performs an improving quality processing for recovering the lost data packet by using the redundant data and at least one of the data packets corresponding to the correspondence, in order to obtain a recovered data packet. The operation controller controls the improving quality processing unit to perform the improving quality processing. The recovered data packet processing unit stores the recovered data packet into the data packet buffer.
US08699518B2 Dynamic circuit adjustment
A system and method are provided for dynamically reconfiguring an optical circuit between a first node and a second node of a communication network. The system and method may include establishing a scheduling window for receiving a plurality of optical traffic demands, classifying the plurality of optical traffic demands into at least a set of bandwidth adjustable demands and a set of fixed bandwidth demands, provisioning a first set of provisioned wavelengths from the plurality of wavelengths to carry the set of fixed bandwidth demands during the scheduling window, allocating the bandwidth remaining on the first set of provisioned wavelengths to the set of bandwidth adjustable demands, and if necessary, provisioning a second set of provisioned wavelengths from the plurality of wavelengths to carry the bandwidth required by the set of bandwidth adjustable demands that could not be allocated to the first set of provisioned wavelengths.
US08699517B2 Dual WiFi apparatus for wireless internet and wireless internet system using the same
A dual wireless fidelity (WiFi) apparatus for wireless Internet that may perform installation, maintenance, management, or the like of a WiFi access point (AP) by using a mobile communication relay system more efficiently, and a wireless Internet system using the dual WiFi apparatus for wireless Internet. The dual WiFi apparatus includes: a signal inputting unit comprising a plurality of input ports for inputting a plurality of mobile communication signals, respectively, and an input port for inputting an Ethernet signal; a signal converting unit for converting the inputted Ethernet signal into a plurality of WiFi signals; a signal coupling unit for coupling the plurality of inputted mobile communication signals to the plurality of WiFi signals converted by the signal converting unit, respectively; and a signal outputting unit for outputting a plurality of coupled signals coupled by the signal coupling unit through a plurality of output ports, respectively.
US08699499B2 Methods and apparatus to provision cloud computing network elements
Methods and apparatus to provision cloud computing network elements are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes receiving a selection of a cloud networking template from a client, wherein the cloud networking template includes a data center connector type and a wide area network connector type, configuring a virtual machine on a host server based on the cloud networking template, configuring a data center connector based on the data center connector type, configuring a wide area network connector based on the wide area network connector type, and coupling the wide area network connector to the data center connector and coupling the data center connector to the virtual machine within the host server to enable the client to access the virtual machine.
US08699482B2 Communication system and communication method
In a communication system in which computer 20 transmits an HTTP request to WWW server 70 via broadband router apparatus 30 and the Internet 50, and WWW server 70 transmits an HTTP response to computer 20 according to the received HTTP request, broadband router apparatus 30 establishes an IP phone session and a TCP connection with HTTP proxy server 620 upon receiving the HTTP request from computer 20, and transmits the received HTTP request to WWW server 70 via HTTP proxy server 620.
US08699471B2 System and method for scrambling and time-hopping
A system and method for scrambling and time-hopping in an ultra-wideband wireless network. In one embodiment, a wireless device includes a symbol mapper and a dynamic chip scrambler. The dynamic chip scrambler is configured to scramble each of a plurality of consecutive bursts of a time-hopped packet according to a pseudo-random scrambling sequence that varies from burst to burst.
US08699469B2 Method implemented by a subscriber unit for selectively suppressing communications
A subscriber unit, used for communicating in voiced communications at a first data rate and communicating at a second data rate for other data, suppresses a selected communication during communication rate modification. A determination is made as to whether the transmission requires a change in data rate, and a switching circuit responds by engaging a different communication channel. Blocking circuitry blocks transmissions until the different data rate is established. This provides an optimum data rate, while preserving the integrity of the data transmitted.
US08699457B2 System and method for managing flows in a mobile network environment
An example method is provided and includes establishing a session for a mobile node, and evaluating a plurality of label switched paths (LSPs) in response to the mobile node experiencing a handoff between a source packet data serving node (SPDSN) and a target PDSN (TPDSN). The method can also include provisioning a sub-tunnel with a first tunnel, which is associated with a selected label switched path. The selected label switched path is associated with a high priority type of data having a low latency characteristic.
US08699454B2 Mobile communication method and radio base station
A mobile communication method according to the present invention includes: the steps of: (A) transferring, from a first radio base station (S-eNB) to an upper level node (S-GW), consecutive uplink data received from a mobile station (UE) with their sequence numbers being consecutive, by use of a resource allocated by the upper level node (S-GW), when the first radio base station (S-eNB) determines that the mobile station (UE) is to perform a handover; (B) transmitting, from the first radio base station (S-eNB) to the upper level node (S-GW) transfer completion notification data after the transfer of the consecutive uplink data to the upper level node (S-GW) is completed; and (C) releasing, at the upper level node (S-GW), the resource when receiving the transfer completion notification data.
US08699450B2 Systems and methods for multimode wireless communication handoff
Methods and apparatus for autonomous handover between WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) EVDO (Evolution-Data Optimized) or 1×RTT (one times Radio Transmission Technology, or 1×) networks during normal operation of a dual-mode mobile station (MS) are provided. The methods and apparatus may improve service continuity during handover and need not require any changes to the WiMAX or CDMA standards.
US08699447B2 Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for prioritizing uplink carriers
A method, apparatus, and computer program product are provided for prioritizing uplink carriers. A method may include determining a first pilot channel transmission power level for a first uplink carrier. The method may further include determining a second pilot channel transmission power level for a second uplink carrier. The method may additionally include prioritizing the first and second uplink carriers based at least in part upon the first and second pilot channel transmission power levels. Corresponding computer program products and apparatuses are also provided.
US08699446B2 Precoding for multiple transmission streams in multiple antenna systems
Precoding for multiple transmission streams in multiple antenna systems. Embodiments herein disclose a general method that transmits signal from multiple antennas using a one/two dimensional precoder followed by STBC/SFBC or SM encoder. This precoder is fixed in a given resource block (RB) or slot, which is composed of P subcarriers and Q OFDM symbols (where the values for P and Q are greater than or 5 equal to 1). The precoder in each resource block may take same or different values, which span the two dimensional time-frequency grid. The precoder is chosen as a function of either logical frequency index or physical frequency index of the RB.
US08699441B2 Dynamic radio resource control state switching
A node (26) controls transitions between radio resource control states for a wireless terminal (30) in a radio access network (24). The radio resource control states comprise a first state and a second state. The node (26) comprises a capacity manager (60) and a radio resource manager (40). The capacity manager (60) is configured to monitor a network condition of the radio access network (24). The radio resource manager (60) is configured to make a decision whether to make a transition from the first state to the second state by determining whether (1) a cost of remaining in the first state is greater than (2) a cost of switching to the second state, and wherein the radio resource manager is configured to take the network condition into consideration when making the decision.
US08699427B2 OFDMA communication system and communication method
There is provided an OFDMA communication system capable of suppressing the communication resource reduction and reducing the processing load on a base station. The system includes a downlink frame generation unit (14) that generates a downlink frame for a downlink period for performing communication to at least one terminal (20) of a plurality of terminals from the base station (10), an uplink frame generation unit (24) that generates an uplink frame for an uplink period for performing communication to the base station (10) from at least one terminal (20) of the plurality of terminals, and a channel allocation unit that allocates, for one terminal of the plurality of terminals, one or more subchannels available in the one terminal, wherein the channel allocation unit allocates, among the subchannels, subchannels having a same time slot and a same frequency band in the downlink frame and in the uplink frame for a single terminal of the plurality of terminals.
US08699426B2 Method and apparatus for resource allocation in wireless communication systems
Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate resource allocation and management in a wireless communication system. As described herein, a resource grid structure can be utilized to allocate resources for respective users corresponding to a given channel (e.g., a Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH)). The resource grid can be constructed using one or more cyclic shifts and a set of four orthogonal covers to provide improved efficiency in resource usage. Further, slots in the resource grid can be allocated to respective users based on user indexes via one or more resource allocation functions. For example, a resource allocation function can step along a first orthogonal cover at increasing cyclic shifts, alternate between second and fourth orthogonal covers at increasing cyclic shifts upon exhaustion of the first orthogonal cover, and step through a third orthogonal cover at increasing cyclic shifts upon exhaustion of the second and fourth orthogonal covers.
US08699422B2 Method and apparatus for allocation of radio resources
An estimate of a cost of allocating radio resources available for allocation to a at least one radio link within a cell is generated in dependency of which radio resources have been used within the cell at previous times. This cost estimate can be compared to a quality gain of allocating the radio resources to the radio link, and an allocation decision can be made in dependency of the comparison result.
US08699420B2 Radio communication terminal and radio communication method
Provided is a radio communication terminal which is capable of measuring quality in communication with a handover destination with high accuracy. The radio communication terminal is capable of communicating with a base station or a relay node, and includes: a receiver which receives control information including information relating to measurement of measuring quality of a neighbor cell; an extractor which extracts information on a subframe where the measurement should be performed, which is a subframe where only transmission of a signal from the relay node connected to the base station is performed, from the information relating to the measurement; a measurement section which performs the measurement, on a subframe basis, based on the extracted information on the subframe where the measurement should be performed: and a transmitter which transmits a result, of the measurement to the base station or the relay node.
US08699415B2 Active set management enhancement for reliable soft handoff in 1XEV-DO system
A method and system for connection management in a wireless data network, such as a 1xEV-DO network adds connections to new network sectors upon receipt of a connection request from an active terminal, but removes data connections that the active terminal requests to be dropped only after confirmation from the active terminal that a channel allocation message has been received and applied. The active network maintains an active set of connections that is at least as large as the active set maintained by the active terminal and does not initiate a connection termination if no confirmation of the channel allocation message is received. This allows for a reduction in the number of dropped connections.
US08699413B2 Network servers, systems, and methods for multiple personas on a mobile device
Network servers, systems, and methods are disclosed which relate to providing a plurality of user identities or personas on a single mobile device. The mobile device has a unique address to communicate with entities on the network. The mobile device further has a plurality of telephone numbers associated with it. The usage of each telephone number may be billed to a separate account. Each telephone number further has a plurality of personas associated with it. Each persona has its own visual interface on the mobile device and a corresponding set of rules. The relationship between personas and telephone numbers, and associated rules, are stored on an application server on the network. The application server routes incoming connections to a specific persona on the single mobile device based on the plurality of rules. The rules can be edited by a user of the mobile device via an interface or via another device connected to the network. An SIP stack on the mobile device enables seamless communication with an IP Multimedia Subsystem.
US08699393B2 Inactivity timer in a discontinuous reception configured system
Systems, methods and wireless devices are provided that utilize a timer to ensure a receiver of a wireless device is on to receive downlink transmissions. In the event the timer runs out without further resource allocation, the mobile device turns its radio off. If a further resource allocation occurs while the timer is running, the timer is restarted.
US08699392B2 Method and apparatus for conserving access point power usage during low network usage intervals
A method for conserving the power usage of access points in a WLAN is disclosed. The method includes detecting, by a peripheral access point during periods of low network usage, that a mobile device has entered a wireless network coverage area. The method also includes providing, by the peripheral access point, initial services to the mobile device and monitoring movements of the mobile device in the network coverage area. Upon determining that the mobile device is in a vicinity of a powered-off non-peripheral access point, powering on a first non-peripheral access point which is determined to be closest to the mobile device and a set of first concentric access points to provide a coverage buffer around the first access point and using the first non-peripheral access point and the set of first concentric access points as serving access points for the mobile device.
US08699390B2 Call routing method and apparatus
The invention relates to a telecommunications chip card for carrying personalization data for connection to at least a mobile telecommunications network, said telecommunications chip card further comprising: means for receiving a dialed telephone number from a first wireless terminal coupled to a first network, wherein said first wireless terminal is adapted for initiating a call between said first wireless terminal and a second wireless terminal, wherein said dialed telephone number belongs to said second wireless terminal; means for obtaining a geographic location of said first wireless terminal; —means for fetching an access point address from a look-up table according to said geographic location, wherein said look-up table is stored in said telecommunications chip card, wherein said access point address belongs to an access point coupled to a second network and within said geographic location, wherein said second network is coupled to said first network; means for initiating a connection with said access point; means for sending said dialed telephone number to said access point for establishing connection through a third network between said first wireless terminal and a second wireless terminal having said dialed telephone number; means for connecting said call between said first and said second wireless terminal.
US08699382B2 Network topologies for energy efficient networks
One embodiment identifies all one-hop neighbor nodes and two-hop neighbor nodes of a node; determines an active set of one-hop neighbor nodes for the node, comprising: includes in the active set each one-hop neighbor node that is either an edge node or connected with at least one two-hop neighbor node with which no other one-hop neighbor nodes are connected; and if the active set is not yet complete, then: determine all combinations of one-hop neighbor nodes that are not already in the active set; and tests each combination in order of each combination's total-energy value to determine whether a specific combination is able to complete the active set; if no combination is able to complete the active set, then including all one-hop neighbor nodes in the active set; and communicates a message to each one-hop neighbor node in the active set indicating that it is in the active set.
US08699381B2 Ascertaining presence in wireless networks
One of many aspects of the invention relates to an ad hoc network in which inbound messages are communicated from an originating node to a gateway node via a plurality of intermediate nodes. In this respect, a method performed by an intermediate node in communicating the inbound message to the gateway node includes: maintaining a routing table; and using the routing table, selecting a node for use as the next hop by determining whether a maximum number of allowable hops for an inbound message is exceeded by using such node, and comparing a preference of using such node to preferences of using other known nodes by which the maximum number of allowable hops would not be exceeded. Another aspect includes sending a “leave” message when an intermediate node leaves the ad hoc network, whereby the intermediate node is removed from similar routing tables maintained by other intermediate nodes.
US08699378B2 Methods and apparatus for discovering hosts on an IPv6 network
Methods and apparatus for discovering hosts on an Internet Protocol (IP) version 6 (IPv6) network are disclosed. An example implementation includes probing a network to determine an Internet Protocol (IP) version 4 (IPv4) address that is in use on the network; determining a Media Access Control (MAC) address associated with the IPv4 address; determining a local-prefix; determining a first IP version 6 (IPv6) address, the first IPv6 address including the MAC address and the local-prefix; determining a second IPv6 address, the second IPv6 address including the MAC address and the local-prefix and the second IPv6 address being different than the first IPv6 address; probing the network to determine if the first IPv6 address is in use; probing the network to determine if the second IPv6 address is in use; and storing an indication of whether at least one of the first or second IPv6 address is in use.
US08699377B2 System and method for implementing mesh network communications using a mesh network protocol
The following describes data structures, communication protocol formats and process flows for controlling and facilitating secure communications between the nodes of a mesh network, such as utility meters and gateway nodes comprising a utility network. The enabled processes include association, information exchange, route discovery and maintenance and the like for instituting and maintaining a secure mesh network.
US08699370B2 Method and apparatus for analysis of user traffic within a predefined area
Multiple packets are received that were transmitted by multiple mobile electronic device sensors located in a predefined area. The packets each include data detected by the sensors of multiple mobile electronic devices. At least a portion of the collected data is stored including multiple unique device identifiers that belong to multiple mobile electronic devices. Responsive to determining that at least two of the unique device identifiers are sequential, a set of values based on the at least two unique devices identifiers are associated as belonging to a same one of the mobile electronic devices.
US08699365B2 Communication device and header compression control method
A communication device according to the present invention includes a header compressor (121) which measures a time from a start of communications with a communication partner and changes a compression ratio of a header of a packet to a compression ratio lower than a present compression ratio each time that a time represented by a timer value elapses, and a controller (12) which controls the timer value based upon at least one information from among channel quality information of the communication device and channel quality information received from the communication partner.
US08699363B2 Method and arrangement for the power management of a digital communication line
The present invention relates to a method and an arrangement for the power management of a digital communication line such as a digital subscriber line DSL. A problem addressed by the invention is that the transitioning of the digital subscriber line from a low transmission power state to a high transmission power state can cause disturbance to adjacent lines. This problem is solved by the current invention by an access node AN that is arranged to step-wise increase the power state until the high transmission power state has been reached. The invention also comprises embodiments of monitoring and detecting traffic events that serve as triggers of the transitioning.
US08699362B2 Radio communication method, radio communication device, radio communication program, and radio communication system
In cooperative sensing in which a plurality of cognitive radio apparatus collaboratively exchange sensing information on a status of frequency band usage as a secondary system, the sensing information is efficiently exchanged in the secondary system without influencing communication of the primary system. In a radio communication system according to this invention, a first radio communication device includes means for observing a surrounding radio communication environment, means for converting information obtained by the observation into a parameter used for radio communication, and means for performing transmission by using the parameter, and a second radio communication device includes means for receiving a signal transmitted from the first radio communication device and means for extracting, from the received signal, information on the surrounding radio communication environment that is observed on a transmission side.
US08699356B2 Method and system for diagnosing a fault or open circuit in a network
A fault injection circuit injects a test signal into a data bus with a normal high logic level and a normal low logic level. The test signal has a greater logic level greater than the normal high logic level of the data bus or a lower logic level lower than the normal low logic level of the data bus. An analog-to-digital converter is coupled to a voltage level detector for sensing an aggregate level of an aggregate signal on the data bus. The aggregate signal is composed of the termination circuit signal and the test signal. A diagnostic tool determines whether a faulty connection between the data bus and a network device exists, where the sensed aggregate level exceeds at least one of the normal high logic level and the normal low logic level.
US08699354B2 Method and apparatus for detecting a fault on an optical fiber
The mode of operation in which a port is configured to operate may be selected so that the manner in which the port will interpret a loss of signal on a receive fiber may be specified. In an immediate mode, the port will interpret a loss of signal on a receive fiber as an indication of a fault on the transmit fiber (or interfaces associated with the transmit fiber) and will immediately shut its transmit interface down. In a multiple cycle detection mode, the port will not immediately interpret a loss of signal on a receive fiber as an indication of a fault on the transmit fiber, but rather will begin monitoring the receive fiber to look for a specified loss of signal pattern on the receive fiber. In this mode the port will interpret a repetitive loss of signal on the receive fiber as an indication of a fault on the transmit fiber. By providing a mode selector, the manner in which the ports are configured to operate may be adjusted individually, as a group, or globally.
US08699350B1 Optimizing traffic in a data network
Systems and methods for optimizing traffic in a data network are provided. Network traffic may be optimized by associating costs with data links that connect network nodes. The method includes determining a set of lowest cost paths between a source network node and a destination network node. Paths that contain loops may be excluded from the set of lowest cost paths. Exploration of certain paths may also be delayed or prevented entirely.
US08699341B2 Method for congestion avoidance in 4G networks
This invention aims to avoid and resolve congestions in wireless 4G networks. The method is based on a central self-organizing network (SON) server, which dynamically changes neighbor lists on congested base station and on all base stations in vicinity. The procedure is triggered by measuring relative committed traffic rate and air interface utilization of the base station. When base station enters into congested state, it notifies the SON server. The SON server creates new neighbor lists for all base stations in the vicinity and removes the congested base station from these lists. With new neighbor lists propagated to mobile stations, the latter won't scan and initiate handovers to the congested base station. The SON server additionally creates a new dense neighbor list and changes handover triggers settings of the congested base station. The mobile stations consequently find other handover opportunities and connect to different base stations. As the air interface resources are released, the base station leaves the congested state.
US08699334B2 Method and apparatus for supporting uplink starvation avoidance in a long term evolution system
A method and apparatus for uplink (UL) starvation avoidance includes determining a current buffer status information. The current buffer status information is reported to an evolved Node B (eNB). A grant that includes a determination of a number of tokens a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) may accumulate is received from the eNB.
US08699309B2 Recording apparatus
A recording apparatus includes: a light-emitting/receiving unit which emits a recording beam, an ATS beam, and a position control beam toward an optical disc recording medium via a common object lens; a tracking mechanism which drives the object lens in a tracking direction parallel to a radial direction of the optical disc recording medium; a reference plane-side tracking error signal generation unit which generates a reference plane-side tracking error signal; a reference plane-side tracking servo signal generation unit which generates a reference plane-side tracking servo signal to cancel out a tracking error; a tracking driving unit which drives the tracking mechanism; an ATS-side tracking error signal generation unit which generates an ATS-side tracking error signal; an ATS control signal generation unit which generates an ATS control signal to cancel out a tracking error; and a signal providing unit which provides the ATS control signal to a tracking servo loop.
US08699308B2 Test recording methods for an information storage medium
Provided are a test method for an information storage medium and a recording and reproducing method using the test method. The test method includes recording a test signal in an optimum power control (OPC) zone formed in either a lead-in area or a lead-out area of the information storage medium, and recording the test signal in a protection zone formed in the other of the lead-in area and the lead-out area.
US08699302B2 Electromagnetic seismology vibrator systems and methods
An electromagnetic system having a reaction mass with a field winding embedded therein, a base plate having an inner annular surface and an outer annular surface, and an armature winding coupled to at least a portion of the inner annular surface and at least a portion of the outer annular surface of an upper end portion of the base plate. In operation, directing an electric current in at least one of the field winding and the armature winding causes at least one of the base plate and the reaction mass to move relative to each other. The electromagnetic system can be used for seismic exploration and vibroseis applications, among other uses.
US08699289B2 Techniques for reducing disturbance in a semiconductor memory device
Techniques for reducing disturbance in a semiconductor memory device are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a semiconductor memory device having reduced disturbance. The semiconductor memory device may comprise a plurality of memory cells arranged in arrays of rows and columns. The semiconductor memory device may also comprise a plurality of data sense amplifiers, coupled to the plurality of memory cells, configured to perform one or more operations during an operation/access cycle, wherein the operation/access cycle may comprise an operation segment and a disturbance recovery segment.
US08699284B2 Semiconductor integrated circuit with thick gate oxide word line driving circuit
A semiconductor integrated circuit according to one aspect of the present invention may includes a plurality of driving circuits to drive a respective plurality of word lines with either a first voltage supplied from a first power supply or a second voltage supplied from a second power supply in accordance with a control signal, and a plurality of gate transistors in each of which a gate is connected to one of the plurality of word lines, and a connection state between a storage node and a bit line is changed based on the voltage provided to the word line connected to the gate. In the semiconductor integrated circuit, a gate oxide film of each of the plurality of gate transistors is thinner than a gate oxide film of each of transistors constituting the plurality of driving circuits.
US08699283B2 Semiconductor device and control method of the same
The present invention is a semiconductor device including: a resistor R11 (first resistor part) and an FET 15 (second resistor part) connected in series between a power supply Vcc (first power supply) and ground (second power supply); an output node N11 provided between the resistor R11 and FET 15 and used for outputting a reference voltage; a feedback node N12 provided between the power supply Vcc and the ground; and a voltage control circuit (19) that maintains a voltage of the feedback node N12 at a constant level by using the reference voltage of the output node N11 and the voltage of the feedback node N12. The present invention can provide a semiconductor device having a reference voltage generating circuit capable of generating the reference voltage that does not greatly depend on a power supply voltage and its control method.
US08699273B2 Bitline voltage regulation in non-volatile memory
Systems and methods are provided to minimize write disturb conditions in an untargeted memory cell of a non-volatile memory array. Bitline driver circuits are provided to control a ramped voltage applied both to a bitline of a target memory cell and a neighboring bitline of an untargeted memory cell. Various embodiments advantageously maintain the integrity of data stored in the untargeted memory cells by applying a controlled voltage signal to a previously floating bitline of a neighbor cell to reduce a potential difference between the source and drain nodes of the untargeted neighbor memory cell during a write operation at a target memory cell. In another embodiment, an increased source bias voltage is applied on a “source” bitline of the target cell during the ramping of the drain bias voltage and then reduced to a ground or near ground potential during the write operation.
US08699271B2 Semiconductor memory device
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor memory device includes memory cells, word lines, a driver circuit, and a control circuit. The memory cells are stacked above a semiconductor substrate, and each includes a charge accumulation layer and control gate. The word lines are coupled to the control gates. The driver circuit repeats a programming operation to write data in a memory cell coupled to a selected word line. In the programming operation, a first voltage is applied to the selected word line, a second voltage to a first unselected word line, and a third voltage to a second unselected word line. The control circuit steps up the first voltage and steps down the second voltage in repeating the programming.
US08699266B2 Implementing enhanced data write for multi-level cell (MLC) memory using threshold voltage-drift or resistance drift tolerant moving baseline memory data encoding
A method and apparatus are provided for implementing enhanced performance for multi-level cell (MLC) memory using threshold-voltage-drift or resistance-drift tolerant moving baseline memory data encoding. A voltage baseline of a prior write is identified, and a data write uses the threshold-voltage-drift or resistance-drift tolerant moving baseline memory data encoding for data being written to the MLC memory responsive to the identified voltage baseline.
US08699262B2 Semiconductor memory device
Adverse effects of a parasitic resistance and a parasitic capacitance of a driver circuit to a memory cell causes problems of thermal disturbance to a not-selected cell, unevenness of application voltage, degradation of a memory element in reading. A capacitor (C) is provided above or beneath a memory cell (MC) that includes a memory element to which a current write memory information and a selection element connected to the memory element. A charge stored in this capacitor writes to the memory element.
US08699258B2 Verification algorithm for metal-oxide resistive memory
Memory devices and methods for operating such devices are described which can effectively program the metal-oxide memory elements in an array, while also avoiding applying unnecessarily high voltage pulses. Programming operations described herein include applying a lower voltage pulse across a metal-oxide memory element to establish a desired resistance state, and only applying a higher voltage pulse when the lower voltage pulse is insufficient to program the memory element. In doing so, issues associated with applying unnecessarily high voltages across the memory element can be avoided.
US08699254B2 Power inverter
In a power inverter, a coolant passage is fixed to a chassis to cool the chassis; the chassis is divided into a first region and a second region by providing the coolant passage in the chassis; a power module is provided in the first region as fixed to the coolant passage; a capacitor module is provided in the second region; and the DC terminal of the capacitor module is directly connected to the DC terminal of the power module.
US08699251B2 Direct current generating, management and distribution system
A direct current generating, management and distribution system includes a first armature winding, a first active rectifier having a first controller and coupled to the first armature winding, a first direct current bus coupled to the first active rectifier, a second armature winding, a second active rectifier having a second controller and coupled to the second armature winding, a second direct current bus coupled to the second active rectifier, a unit controller coupled to the first and second controllers, a first set of switches coupled to the first direct current bus and to the unit controller, a second set of switches coupled to the second direct current bus and to the unit controller, a third switch coupled to the first direct current bus and to the unit controller and a fourth switch coupled to the second direct current bus and the unit controller.
US08699248B2 Power converter with capacitive energy transfer and fast dynamic response
A converter circuit and related technique for providing high power density power conversion includes a reconfigurable switched capacitor transformation stage coupled to a magnetic converter (or regulation) stage. The circuits and techniques achieve high performance over a wide input voltage range or a wide output voltage range. The converter can be used, for example, to power logic devices in portable battery operated devices.
US08699247B2 Charge pump system dynamically reconfigurable for read and program
A charge pump system can provide multiple regulated output levels, including several concurrently, in an arrangement that can reduce the area and power consumption of such a high voltage generation system. The charge pump system can be dynamically reconfigurable based on output requirements. When output level is low, but required for a large AC, DC load, the system is configured in parallel to share the load. When a higher output is required, such as for a programming in a non-volatile memory, the system is configured in serial to generate the desired high output level. The exemplary embodiment uses all of the pump units in each operation and, hence, is able to be optimized for smaller pump area and less power consumption, while still delivering the same pump ability as larger, more power consuming arrangements.
US08699237B2 Soft-switching inverter utilizing high step up ratio circuit with active clamping
An inverter with soft switching is used for a high step-up ratio and a high conversion efficiency. The inverter includes an isolation voltage-quadrupling DC converter and an AC selecting switch. The isolation voltage-quadrupling DC converter includes an active clamping circuit. By a front-stage converter circuit, a continuous half-sine-wave current is generated. By a rear-stage AC selecting switch, the half-sine-wave current is turned into a sine-wave current. Thus, electricity may be supplied to an AC load or the grid. The circuit is protected by isolating the low-voltage side from the high-voltage side. The conversion efficiency is high. The leakage inductance is low. The switch stress is low. The inverter is durable and reliable. Hence, the inverter is suitable for use in a photovoltaic system to increase the total conversion efficiency.
US08699229B2 Display and electronic unit
A display capable of inhibiting deformation of a component during transport or the like and an electronic unit including the display are provided. A display includes: a main section; and a board-mounting plate disposed on one surface of the main section, and having a board-mounting region on a main surface on a side opposite to a side facing the main section, in which the board-mounting plate includes, at corners at both ends of a side of the mounting region, hook sections allowing corners of a board to be hooked thereto, and the hook sections each are fixed to the main surface on two sides of the corner of the mounting region.
US08699225B2 Liquid cooled electronics assembly suitable to use electrically conductive coolant
A liquid cooled power electronics assembly configured to use electrically conductive coolant to cool power electronic devices that uses dielectric plates sealed with a metallic seal around the perimeter of the dielectric plates to form a device assembly, and then forms another metallic seal between the device assembly and a housing. The configuration allows for more direct contact between the electronic device and the coolant, while protecting the electronic device from contact with potentially electrically conductive coolant. Material used to form the dielectric plates and the housing are selected to have similar coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) so that the reliability of the seals is maximized.
US08699223B2 Two-way latch mechanism and related electronic device
A two-way latch mechanism includes a hook disposed inside a host for engaging with a first hole on a panel and for engaging with a second hole on the panel after the panel rotates relative to the host at 180 degrees. The two-way latch mechanism further includes an actuating component. Two pushing portions are respectively disposed on two sides of the actuating component. One of the pushing portions slides at a first direction for separating the hook from the first hole, and the other slides at the first direction for separating the hook from the second hole. The two-way latch mechanism further includes two elastic components for respectively providing elastic forces on the actuating component, so as to hold the actuating component at a predetermined position stably.
US08699218B2 Portable computer system
A portable computer system is disclosed according to the invention. The portable computer system comprises: a multi-functional processing unit with power consumption of no more than approximately 10 watts consisting of a single chip having a plurality of processors thereon, wherein each processor is operable for at least one task selected from a group consisting of computing, graphic processing and audio processing; a mother board to which the multi-functional processing unit is connected; a memory unit connected to the motherboard and in communication with the multi-functional processing unit; and an I/O interface connected to the motherboard and in communication with the multi-functional processing unit, the portable computer system is configured to insert into a interface of a peripheral device to communicate between the portable computer system and the peripheral device.
US08699210B2 Integrated water current connection for motor drive
A system for cooling a multi-cell power supply, the system including a water pump, a water-to-air heat exchanger in fluid communication with the water pump, and a supply water manifold in fluid connection with the water-to-air-heat exchanger. The system further includes a plurality of power cells in fluid communication with the supply water manifold via one or more water hoses, and a multi-winding device in fluid communication with the plurality of power cells via at least one water-cooled bus, wherein the at least one water cooled bus electrically connects the power cells to secondary windings of the multi-winding device. The water-cooled buses provide both electrical current as well as cooling fluid to each winding of the multi-winding device, thereby eliminating a need for separate cooling and power connections.
US08699209B2 Externally fused enclosure for a solar power system
A solar power generation system includes an array of photovoltaic modules, a plurality of positive wire lines leading from the photovoltaic modules, and a junction box including components for receiving the plurality of conductive wire lines from the photovoltaic modules and combining the plurality of conductive wire lines into a smaller number of conductive wire lines leading from the junction box and toward a load. An in-line fuse is connected to each of the positive wire lines leading from the photovoltaic modules. The in-line fuses are positioned proximate but physically outside of the junction box, such that the fuses are accessible without opening the junction box.
US08699205B2 Package type multi layer thin film capacitor for high capacitance
Provided is a package type multi-layer thin film capacitor for large capacitance, including: a ceramic sintered body formed with slots on one side and another side thereof, respectively; a plurality of first internal electrode layers formed within the ceramic sintered body; a plurality of second internal electrode layers formed within the ceramic sintered body to be positioned between the plurality of first internal electrode layers; a pair of first main connection electrode members inserted into the slots to be connected to the first internal electrode layers or the second internal electrode layers, respectively; a pair of first main lead members inserted into the slots and to be connected to the first main connection electrode members, respectively; and a sealing member sealing the ceramic sintered body to partially expose each of the pair of first main lead members.
US08699196B2 Thermal protection control method and system
A thermal protection method and system of an Integrated Circuit (IC) are provided, which are applicable to a wireless terminal equipment. The method includes: measuring a temperature value of a protection point; comparing the measured temperature value with a thermal protection temperature threshold; and starting a protection measure when the measured temperature value reaches or exceeds the thermal protection temperature threshold and a duration of reaching or exceeding the thermal protection temperature threshold exceeds a preset time.
US08699191B2 Power management arrangement and method in a utility meter
A method of controllably disconnecting a utility power service from a load includes generating in a metrology circuit of a meter metering information regarding electrical power provided to the load from the utility power service. The meter includes a service switch having a controller to controllably interrupt a connection between the utility power service and the load. The method also includes connecting an energy storage device to the controller responsive to a service disconnect command. The method further includes connecting at least a portion of the metrology circuit to the energy storage device and disconnecting a meter power supply from the portion of the metrology circuit responsive to a power interruption detection signal.
US08699190B2 Soft magnetic metal strip for electromechanical components
The invention relates to a soft-magnetic metal strip for electromechanical components, wherein the soft-magnetic metal strip has a nanocrystalline or amorphous structure. The metal strip has strip thickness to roughness ratios d/Ra of 5≦d/Ra≦25.
US08699183B2 Write pole and shield with different taper angles
A first trench sidewall has a continuous first taper angle that terminates at a first plane. At least one layer may be deposited that forms a second trench sidewall with a continuous second taper angle that extends a predetermined depth past the first plane and is less than the first taper angle. A write pole may then be formed on the second trench sidewall with the write pole being closer to the first trench sidewall at the predetermined depth than at the first plane.
US08699179B1 Hermetically sealed disk drive with fill port valve
A novel disk drive includes an enclosure and a disk rotatably mounted to and within the enclosure. The disk drive enclosure has a fill port opening with an internally threaded section and an internal annular seating surface. A fill port valve is disposed within the fill port opening. The fill port valve includes an externally threaded section that is engaged with the internally threaded section of the fill port opening, an external annular seating surface in contact with and forming a continuous annular seal with the internal annular seating surface of the fill port opening, and a gas flow channel spanning the externally threaded section of the fill port valve. The disk drive may be helium-filled, and may also include a metal foil seal that is externally adhered to the disk drive enclosure and covers the fill port opening and the fill port valve.
US08699177B2 System for and method of properly positioning a magazine media adapted for library storage
A system for and method of properly positioning a media magazine in a mass data storage library.
US08699175B1 Disk drive mapping low frequency write addresses to circular buffer write zone
A drive is disclosed comprising a head actuated over a disk comprising a plurality of data tracks. A random access write zone is defined on the disk comprising a first plurality of the data tracks, and a circular buffer write zone is defined on the disk comprising a second plurality of the data tracks. Write commands are received comprising logical block addresses (LBAs). First frequency and second frequency write LBAs are identified, where the second frequency is higher than the first frequency. Data associated with the first frequently write LBAs is stored in the circular buffer write zone, and data associated with the second frequency write LBAs is stored in the random access write zone.
US08699169B2 Fly height extraction system
A system and method for monitoring fly height between a magnetic recording medium and a transducing head. In a first exemplary embodiment, magnetic spacing change value is calculated using media noise on the recording medium (instead of prerecorded tones) to provide a broadband frequency distribution that results in improved Wallace equation accuracy. In a second exemplary embodiment, a magnetic spacing change value is acquired by any suitable method but is adjusted as necessary to reflect transducing head wear, thus providing a methodology for calculating changes in fly height by taking into account the signal loss that is attributable to wear. In this way, a basic understanding of the mechanism causing changes in magnetic spacing is achieved.
US08699165B2 Thermal read/write offset compensation
A HDD comprising a temperature sensor disposed inside the HDD configured to periodically measure temperature inside of said hard disk drive; a magnetic disk; a read head; a write head; memory for storing RWO data. The RWO data is a function of a distance between the read head and the write head. The HDD also includes a RWO data adjustor configured to adjust the RWO data in response to a change in temperature of the HDD to compensate for a change in the distance between the read head and the write head based on the change in temperature.
US08699159B1 Reducing effects of wide area track erasure in a disk drive
Apparatus and methods for managing data stored in a disk drive having at least one disk including a first zone of tracks for storing data and a second zone of tracks for storing data, with the second zone being adjacent the first zone. It is determined whether a write counter for the first zone exceeds a threshold value. The write counter for the first zone represents a number of times the first zone has been completely written with data. If it is determined that the write counter for the first zone exceeds the threshold value, the disk drive is controlled to rewrite data from at least a portion of the second zone.
US08699154B2 Camera lens assembly and producing method thereof
A camera lens assembly is provided, including a holder, a lens module, and a metal frame. The lens module is fixed in the holder by an adhesive and includes a lens, a substrate connected to the lens, and a plurality solder balls disposed on the substrate. The metal frame is disposed around the lens module and fixed to the holder, wherein the metal frame forms an opening with the solder balls exposed thereto, and the lens module and the metal frame form a gap there between.
US08699151B2 Imaging lens
An imaging lens includes, sequentially from an object side, a first lens group having a positive refractive power; a second lens group having a negative refractive power; a third lens group having a positive refractive power; and a fourth lens group having a negative refractive power. The third lens group is configured by a single lens element, and is moved along an optical axis, whereby focusing is performed.
US08699150B1 Wide-angle image capturing lens assembly
A wide-angle image capturing lens assembly includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens element, a second lens element, a third lens element, a fourth lens element and a fifth lens element and each of the first through fifth lens elements is single and non-cemented. The first lens element with negative refractive power has a concave image-side surface. The second lens element with refractive power has a concave object-side surface and a convex image-side surface. The third lens element has positive refractive power. The fourth lens element has negative refractive power, wherein at least one of an object-side surface and an image-side surface of the fourth lens element is aspheric. The fifth lens element with positive refractive power has a convex image-side surface, wherein at least one of an object-side surface and the image-side surface of the fifth lens element is aspheric.
US08699145B2 Zoom lens
A zoom lens includes a first lens group, a second lens group, a third lens group, and a fourth lens group. The first lens group includes a first lens that has positive refractive power, a second lens that has negative refractive power, and a prism. The second lens group includes a third lens that has positive refractive power and a fourth lens that has negative refractive power. The third lens group includes a stop, a fifth lens that has positive refractive power, and a sixth lens that has negative refractive power. The fourth lens group includes a seventh lens that has positive refractive power. Upon changing magnification from a wide-angle end to a telephoto end, the first and fourth lens groups are fixed, the second lens group first moves toward an image plane side and then moves toward an object side, and the third lens group linearly moves toward the object side.
US08699144B2 Optical zoom lens assembly
This invention discloses an optical zoom lens assembly, sequentially arranged from an object side to an image side along an optical axis comprising: a first lens-group, a second lens-group and a third lens-group. The first lens-group with negative refractive power comprises at least one positive lens, and at least one negative lens. The second lens-group with positive refractive power comprises at least one positive lens, and at least one negative lens. The third lens-group with a positive refractive power comprises at least one aspheric lens. Therein, refractive indexes of the first lens-group, the second lens-group and the third lens-group are small than 1.69. Therefore, the present invention can reduce manufacturing costs and provide good image quality to be applied to cameras, cell phone cameras and other devices.
US08699141B2 Lens assembly apparatus and method
An optical apparatus includes a first membrane, a second membrane and at least one electromagnetically displaceable component. The first membrane includes an optically active area. The first membrane and the second membrane are coupled by a filler material disposed in a reservoir. At least one electromagnetically displaceable component is coupled to the filler material via the second membrane, such that a displacement of the at least one electromagnetically displaceable component is operative to cause a deformation of the optically active area of the first membrane by movement of the filler material.
US08699139B2 Variable-focal-length projection lens system and projection apparatus
A variable-focal-length lens system for projection which achieves focusing by movement of the entire system has a second to a fourth lens group as focal-length-varying lens groups and a first lens group as a distance-compensation lens group. The second to fourth lens groups individually move in the optical axis direction to vary the group-to-group distances so as to vary the focal length of the entire system. During focusing, the first lens group moves in the optical axis direction such that, as the projection distance varies from a remote distance to a close distance, curvature of field varies to the under side.
US08699137B2 Agile optical phased array device and applications
A device that provides light beam switching, agile steering of the light beam over a range of angles, and generation of arbitrary wavefront shapes with high spatial and temporal resolution. The agile device can include a volume diffractive structure comprising Bragg planes having one refractive index and the Bragg planes separated by regions containing an active optical medium. Electrodes (which may be the Bragg planes themselves, or may be arrayed adjacent to the active optical medium) are used to control the electric field intensity and direction across the structure, and thereby control the diffraction efficiency of the structure and the local phase delay imposed on a diffracted wavefront. Means are provided for addressing the many thousands of electrodes required for precise and rapid wavefront control. Applications include free-space atmospheric optical communications, near-eye displays, direct-view 3D displays, optical switching, and a host of other applications.
US08699131B2 Microscope controller and microscope system comprising microscope controller
In a microscope controller by which is performed an operation for controlling an operation of each of a plurality of electric units included in a microscope system, the control unit establishes a plurality of functional areas in the display region of the touch panel as regions for making operable the plurality of electric units. When an input to any of the functional areas is detected, the control unit generates a control instruction signal for controlling an electric unit corresponding to this functional area. The communication control unit transmits the control instruction signal to an external device controlling an operation of a corresponding electric unit. When an input to a predetermined functional area is detected, the control unit then reestablishes a plurality of functional areas within the display region of the touch panel so as to enlarge this functional area or a plurality of specific functional areas including this functional area.
US08699130B2 Microscope, in particular laser scanning microscope
Microscope, particularly laser scanning microscope, for optical detection of light radiation excited in a specimen, having a detection beam path for detecting spectral components of the light radiation in a plurality of detection channels, wherein the light radiation arrives at a variable longpass filter or shortpass filter from which reflected and/or transmitted components are reflected back with a parallel offset, and the latter arrive at a detector after at least one back-reflection of this kind.
US08699127B2 Optical amplifier
An optical amplifier of the present invention includes: an optical amplifier circuit that amplifies input signal light and outputs the amplified light as output signal light; a first monitor for monitoring the presence or absence of the input signal light; and a control circuit that, when receiving a shutdown control signal, controls the optical amplifier circuit such that a shutdown control speed for reducing a level of the output signal light to zero differs according to the presence or absence of the input signal light.
US08699118B2 Border structure for viewable area of electronic paper display
A border structure for viewable area of electronic paper display, including: a planarization layer; a border electrode, made of metal and disposed on the planarization layer; a glue layer, disposed on the border electrode and having on its bottom surface at least one downward extruding portion for enhancing its adhesive strength; and an electrophoretic display layer, disposed on the top surface of the glue layer.
US08699116B2 Microactuator, optical device, display apparatus, exposure apparatus, and method for producing device
A microactuator includes a base member, a plate-shaped member which is deflectively deformable, and a driving force applying device. A driving objective is connected to a predetermined portion of a deflectively deformable area of the plate-shaped member. The driving force applying device deflectively deforms the deflectively deformable area to change an inclination of the predetermined portion of the plate-shaped member between a first inclination and a second inclination; and a part of the plate-shaped member or a part of a member fixed to the plate-shaped member is brought into abutment against a member when the inclination is the first inclination, and the part of the plate-shaped member or the part of the member fixed to the plate-shaped member is brought into abutment against the base member when the inclination is the second inclination.
US08699109B2 Projection type image display apparatus and image display method
Parallel coherent light from the laser 210 is irradiated through the light bending device 215 onto the hologram recording medium 220 having a hologram image of a scatter plate recorded, and a hologram reproduction real image 235 of the scatter plate is generated using the parallel light flux LL as illumination light for reproduction. The spatial light modulator 240 composed of a liquid crystal display, etc., is disposed so as to overlap on the position of the hologram reproduction real image 235, thereby obtaining a modulated image on a surface of the reproduction real image 235 of the scatter plate. The modulated image is projected onto the screen 260 by the projection optical system 250. The light bending device 215 is composed of a diffraction grating in which the pitch and direction of the grating lines are changed in terms of time, wherein the irradiation angle of the parallel light flux LL is changed in terms of time, and the illumination light beam scans on the screen 260. The scanning speed is caused to become 200 mm/sec or more, and the distribution angle of incident light θ incident into point Q1 is caused to become 0.4 degrees or more.
US08699101B2 Image readers
An image reader is provided, which includes a feed tray that has a loading surface and is swingable around a first swing axis parallel to a width direction of a document sheet placed on the feed tray between a first position where the loading surface is directed downward above a housing and a second position where the loading surface is directed upward at an upstream side relative to the housing in the feeding direction, a first opening formed between the housing and the feed tray placed in the second position, the first opening being configured such that an inside of the housing communicates with an outside of the housing therethrough, a second opening formed in a position higher than a power supply unit and lower than the first opening inside the housing, and a communication path through which the first opening communicates with the second opening.
US08699093B2 Image reading apparatus and optical unit
An image reading apparatus includes a body; a circuit board fixed to the body; a light emitter disposed on a first surface of the circuit board, the light emitter emitting light with which a document is irradiated; a light guide disposed opposite the circuit board with the light emitter therebetween, the light emitted from the light emitter passing through the light guide; an urging unit; a supporting unit fixed to the body; and a pressing unit. The pressing unit includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is pressed in a direction from the light emitter toward the light guide as a result of receiving a force from the urging unit. The second portion presses the light guide against the light emitter as a result of receiving a reaction force from the supporting unit when the first portion is pressed.
US08699087B2 Image generating apparatus, image processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, and recording medium
Additional image data of an additional image, which is based on first data and second data concerning security of obtained data, is added to image data that is based on the obtained data, and an image based on the image data to which the additional image data is added is outputted onto a recording medium, for example. Furthermore, when the additional image data is added to image data of the image obtained from the recording medium, the first data and second data are separated from the additional image data, and reference is made to these pieces of data to perform subsequent processing of the image data.
US08699082B2 Apparatus to control printing density in image forming device and method thereof
An apparatus to control a printing density in an image forming device and a method thereof, capable of controlling the printing density of a printed matter according to an amount of pages for a single page and a print rate. The apparatus and method solve a problem wherein the printing density is recognized as being degraded due to an increase of pages for a single paper or a reduced print rate. The printing density is set automatically or manually, and a bias voltage applied to a developing roller is controlled according to set-up information so that the printing density is controlled.
US08699081B2 Halftoning run length encoded datastreams
Methods and systems herein provide for halftoning of Run length (RL) encoded datastreams. In one embodiment, a print controller identifies a packet within a RL encoded datastream. The packing includes a header and a block of continuous tone data. The print controller identifies an array of conversion values for converting RL encoded data to halftone data, and indexes the array using one or more bytes of the block of bitmap data. The print controller then outputs halftone data from the conversion array based on the index to convert the RL encoded continuous tone data of the packet to halftone data for a print engine.
US08699070B2 Control method for replacing data rendering blocks of white space with paper feed commands
A recording system has a recording device that records recording data sent from a host computer to a recording medium. The host computer has a division control unit that divides recording data to be recorded into plural blocks of recording data, and a transmission control unit that sequentially transmits the blocks of divided recording data. The recording device has a reception unit that stores the transmitted blocks of recording data to a receive buffer in the order received, and a recording control unit that records the received blocks of recording data to the recording medium. The dividing position where the division control unit divides the recording data to be recorded is a position where white space data is contained in the recording data to be recorded.
US08699066B2 Data processing apparatus, data processing method, and storage medium capable of suppressing an increase in processing load in determination of a color range
A high-quality image reproducibility is realized by appropriately evaluating a screen processing result and controlling the screen processing. An image processing apparatus includes a first screen processing unit for performing screen processing on input image data using first screen information, an evaluation unit for acquiring an evaluation value of a processing result of the first screen processing unit based on a difference between a low-frequency component of the processing result of the first screen processing unit and a low-frequency component of the input image data, a setting unit for setting screen information acquired by performing calculation using the first screen information and second screen information that is different from the first screen information, according to an evaluation value of a processing result of the first screen processing unit, and a second screen processing unit for performing screen processing on the input image data using the set screen information.
US08699060B2 Image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus
In the case of transmitting an image data, a controller causes a re-destination storage to store an identification number of a destination. Thereafter, when a user presses a re-destination key long, a display controlling section causes a display device to display a confirmation screen to let the user confirm whether or not to delete the identification number stored as a re-destination. If the user depresses an OK key, a re-destination deleting section deletes the identification number stored in the re-destination storage.
US08699059B2 Control apparatus and method for writing a command to a control file
There is provided a communication apparatus including a communication unit configured to communicate with a control apparatus, which has a recording unit and executes processing in accordance with a command that has been written to the recording unit, an accepting unit configured to accept selection of a command by a user, and a writing unit configured to write the selected command to the recording unit, the communication apparatus comprising: a sensing unit configured to sense connection to the control apparatus via the communication unit; a determination unit configured to determine whether the recording unit has been set to a write inhibit state if the connection has been sensed by the sensing unit; and a notification unit configured to notify the user of the fact that the recording unit has been set to the write inhibit state, if the determination unit determines that the recording unit has been set to the write inhibit state.
US08699055B2 Image processing apparatus with symmetric processors
A multifunction image processing apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a communications module, a scan subsystem, a print subsystem, and a digital signal processor (DSP) block. The communications module is used to communicate with a host computer to send and receive image data files. The scan subsystem is used to scan images. The print subsystem is used to print images. The DSP block includes at least two digital signal processors. The digital signal processors can be programmed to symmetrically multiprocess portions of an image data file to process it more quickly. Alternatively, digital signal processors can be programmed to simultaneously process the image data for the scan subsystem and image data for the print subsystem.
US08699054B2 Media selection methods in a multi-media printer utilizing print client indicators
A multi-media printer renders an image from a submitted print job. A decoding module receives the submitted print job and extracts a print client indicator from the submitted print job. A mapping module includes a plurality of entries, each of the plurality of entries including the print client indicator and a corresponding job settings file. A parameter determination module receives the at least one print client indicator and compares the print client indicator to the plurality of entries in the mapping module to determine if a matching entry corresponds to print client indicator. The parameter determination module determines if the corresponding job settings file in the matching entry includes at least one media selection parameter. The parameter determination module outputs at least one media selection parameter as one of the final media selection parameters if the corresponding job settings file in the matching entry is found in the mapping module and the media selection parameters are defined and operational.
US08699052B2 Image forming apparatus, control method, and program
An image forming apparatus including a web server configured to generate an operation screen and a browser configured to receive the operation screen from the web server and to display the operation screen includes an identification unit configured to identify, if a connection request is given to the web server, a requestor of the connection request, a web server authentication unit configured to perform authentication of a user to use the web server, and a control unit configured to, if the requestor is identified as the browser of the image forming apparatus by the identification unit, control the web server to transmit the operation screen to the browser of the image forming apparatus without the web server authentication unit performing the authentication.
US08699050B2 Image forming device, image forming method, and image forming program
An image forming device for executing an authentication print job including: a communication interface unit for receiving print data; a job data holding unit for holding job data based on the print data for the authentication print job; a user authentication unit for outputting the result of the user authentication to a control unit; a job execution unit for executing a job based on the job data; a job list generating unit for generating a list of the authentication print jobs; a display unit for displaying the list; and the control unit for, in receiving the result of the user authentication, acquiring a number of the authentication print jobs of the user authenticated by the user authentication, wherein, when the number is greater than or equal to a predetermined number, the control unit causes the job list generating unit to generate the list of the authentication print jobs of the authenticated user, the display unit to display the list, and the job execution unit to execute the authentication print job of the authenticated user.
US08699047B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and non-transitory computer readable medium that includes plural page description language (PDL) processing units and a job management unit
An image processing apparatus includes plural page description language processing units and a job management unit. Each of the page description language processing units corresponds to one of different page description languages. The job management unit performs management to select one of the page description language processing units, the selected page description language processing unit serving as a currently processing page description language processing unit, and to cause only the currently processing page description language processing unit to process a print job. Each of the page description language processing units includes a raster image creating unit and a raster image transferring unit. The job management unit includes a first queue, a second queue, a reception-time adding unit, an image-creation-time adding unit, a first instruction unit, a second instruction unit, a third instruction unit, a controller, and a job-being-processed list memory.
US08699043B2 Image processing apparatus, image forming apparatus, image processing method, and computer-readable storage medium containing image processing program
An image processing apparatus of the present invention includes: a blank document determination section determining whether or not input image data is image data of a blank document, regardless of a process mode set for setting a process with respect to the input image data; a storage device storing the input image data in association with a determination result made by the blank document determination section; and a control section (i) reading out the input image data from the storage device and (ii) excluding the input image data determined as image data of a blank document by the blank document determination section, from images to be displayed by the image display device, when the image display device carries out a preview display of the input image data. This configuration makes it possible to carry out a preview display in which a blank document (blank page document) is skipped, without reading the document again.
US08699042B2 Systems and methods for multi-mode color blending
Systems and methods are provided for performing blending operations on color documents described in a PDL in one of at least two modes. In a first mode, a specified colorspace associated with one PDL group is replaced with a second colorspace, wherein the second colorspace is native to a target device. Blending operations can then be performed on the PDL group using the second colorspace. In the second mode, blending operations are performed using the colorspace specified for the PDL group.
US08699039B2 Document generating apparatus, display control apparatus, document generating method, display control method and computer readable medium
The document generating apparatus is provided with: an acquiring unit that acquires information on a first operation on a display screen and information on a second operation on the display screen, the first operation being for designating a part area of an image as an area to be included in an electronic document, and the second operation being for setting a size of a medium on which the electronic document is printed; an adjusting unit that adjusts the part area of the image designated in the first operation into the medium of which size is set in the second operation; and a generating unit that generates the electronic document based on the image adjusted by the adjusting unit.
US08699036B2 Device for optically scanning and measuring an environment
A device for optically scanning and measuring and environment, with a laser scanner, having a base and a measuring head which is rotatable relative to the base, with a light emitter, which emits an emission light beam, a light receiver which receives a reception light beam which is reflected by an object in the environment of the laser scanner or scattered otherwise, and a control and evaluation unit which, for a multitude of measuring points, determines at least the distance to the object, has a manually movable trolley, on which the laser scanner is mounted by means of its base and which can be taken from a resting state to a moving state, wherein the trolley has a path measuring device for measuring its path.
US08699035B2 Inspection apparatus and inspection method for light emitting device
An inspection apparatus and an inspection method is provided having a wafer chuck stage equipped with one or more wafer chucks; a position measurement unit for measuring the positions of the light emitting devices on each of the expanded wafers loaded respectively on the wafer chucks; a photodetector and at least one probe provided corresponding to each of the expanded wafers; and a control unit provided with means for moving the wafer chuck stage in the X axis and/or Y-axis directions such that the light emitting devices on each of the expanded wafers are sequentially brought under the corresponding probes, means for moving each of the probes to a place corresponding to the electrodes in the light emitting devices, and means for bringing the probes into contact with the corresponding electrodes.
US08699032B2 Surface plasmon resonance sensor, localized plasmon resonance sensor, and method for manufacturing same
A surface plasmon resonance sensor includes a substrate, a dielectric film having a nonlinear optical effect on a first surface of the substrate, and a probe fixed to the dielectric film. A plasmon resonance is produced by resonating a surface plasmon generated on the first surface of the substrate with an evanescent wave generated on a second surface of the substrate by incident light radiated to the second surface. The plasmon resonance is detected by measuring a change of a component of light reflected on the second surface of the substrate. The component of the reflected light is caused by the nonlinear optical effect. This surface plasmon resonance sensor has a high measuring sensitivity.
US08699025B2 Method and apparatus for measuring hexavalent chromium in water
Disclosed and claimed herein is an apparatus and method for measuring hexavalent chromium in water samples using a colorimetric method. The apparatus includes a means for correcting interference due to sample turbidity.
US08699011B2 Time-synchronized TDLAS measurements of pressure and temperature in a gas turbine engine
A method of absorption spectroscopy to determine a rapidly variable gas parameter. The method includes transmitting light from a synchronization light source to a synchronization detector. The transmitted light is periodically interrupted by a moving mechanical part between the synchronization light source and synchronization detector. The output from the synchronization detector is used to generate a repeating time signal having variable phase delay. This signal is used to control the timing of laser spectroscopy wavelength scans. Multiple spectroscopic scans may be repeated at multiple selected time signal phase delay and the results averaged for each phase. Apparatus for implementing the above methods are also disclosed.
US08699004B2 Device for mounting a grating and a photosensitive material for stereoprojection imaging
A device for mounting a grating and a photosensitive material for stereoprojection imaging, includes: an enlarging-printing platform; and an exposure head positioned above the enlarging-printing platform; wherein the enlarging-printing platform is a chamber structure, and has a plurality of suction holes provided on an upper surface thereof and at least one exhaust port provided on a side connected with an exhaust device; the device for mounting the grating and the photosensitive material for stereoprojection imaging further includes a compressing mechanism connected with the upper surface. The device for mounting the grating and the photosensitive material provides a real-time composite device for developing stereopictures. With the mounting device, the grating and photosensitive photographic paper need either being combined beforehand, or being developed with the grating after exposure. Therefore, the drawback of high crimp ratio of the grating, high difficulty of developing, bad stereoimaging effect, and high cost is overcome.
US08698999B2 Protection module for EUV lithography apparatus, and EUV lithography apparatus
In EUV lithography apparatuses (10), it is proposed, in order to lengthen the lifetime of contamination-sensitive components, to arrange them in a protection module. The protection module comprises a housing (23-29) having at least one opening (37-47), in which at least one component (13a, 13b, 15, 16, 18, 19) is arranged and at which one or more gas feeds (30-36) are provided in order to introduce a gas flow into the housing (23-29), which emerges through the at least one opening (37-47). In order to effectively prevent contaminating substances from penetrating into the protection module, a light source (48-56) is arranged at the at least one opening (37-47), which light source illuminates the opening (37-47) with one or more wavelengths by which the contaminating substances can be dissociated before they penetrate through the opening (37-47).
US08698998B2 Exposure apparatus, method for cleaning member thereof, maintenance method for exposure apparatus, maintenance device, and method for producing device
An exposure apparatus EXS forms an immersion area AR2 of a liquid LQ on the side of the image plane of a projection optical system PL and performs exposure of a substrate P via the projection optical system PL and the liquid LQ of the immersion region AR2. The exposure apparatus EXS has an optical cleaning unit (80) which irradiates a predetermined irradiation light Lu, having an optical cleaning effect, onto, for example, the upper surface (31) of the substrate stage PST which makes contact with the liquid LQ for forming the immersion area AR2. Thus, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the exposure accuracy and measurement accuracy due to pollution of the member in contact with the liquid in the immersion region.
US08698996B2 Flexible substrate for display device and display device using the same
The present disclosure relates to a flexible substrate for a display device including a plastic layer containing a woven glass fiber, a metal film coated on either both side surfaces or one surface of the plastic layer, and an overcoating layer formed on one surface of the metal film wherein the overcoating layer is on the side of the metal film opposite from the plastic layer, and to a display device using the flexible substrate. The flexible substrate is thin, and has small thermal expansion coefficient, excellent flexibility, heat resistance, gas permeability resistance and moisture blocking property. The flexible substrate can be used in various display devices such as a TV, a notebook computer, a cellular phone, or an electronic paper.
US08698991B2 Liquid crystal display and method for manufacturing the same
A method for manufacturing a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) includes; disposing a gate line including a gate electrode on a substrate, disposing a gate insulating layer on the gate line, disposing a data layer including a data line, source electrode and a drain electrode facing the source electrode on the gate insulating layer, disposing a color filter on the gate insulating layer, disposing an overcoat layer on the color filter, disposing a planarization layer on a portion of the overcoat layer corresponding to the gate line, the data line and the drain electrode, and disposing a pixel electrode in contacted with the overcoat layer in a region corresponding to the color filter.
US08698989B2 Liquid crystal display device with a switchable viewing angle comprising a plurality of color sub-pixels and a plurality of viewing angle control sub-pixels
A viewing angle switchable liquid crystal display panel includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, a plurality of color sub-pixels and a plurality of viewing angle control (VAC) pixels. The liquid crystal layer includes liquid crystal molecules sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate. The liquid crystal molecules of each color sub-pixel include twisted nematic liquid crystal molecules. Each of the color sub-pixels includes a first pixel electrode disposed on an inner surface of the first substrate, and a second pixel electrode disposed on an inner surface of the second substrate. Each of the viewing angle control pixels includes a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the inner surface of the first substrate, and a third electrode disposed on the inner surface of the second substrate.
US08698982B2 Method of manufacturing liquid crystal device and liquid crystal device having a polarization separating element outside a display area
A liquid crystal device includes a first substrate and a second substrate that are arranged so as to face each other, a liquid crystal layer that is pinched between the first substrate and the second substrate, one pair of polarizers that are arranged on both outer sides of the first substrate and the second substrate, a first optical element having a polarization separation function that is disposed in at least one spot of the first substrate, and a display area that contributes to display. The first optical element is arranged outside the display area.
US08698980B2 Color regulating device for illumination and apparatus using the same, and method of regulating color
A color regulating device for illumination. includes a light-valving structure for adjusting a flux ratio of outgoing light through the light-valving structure to incident light entering the light-valving structure, and a color-adjusting structure having a wavelength-band converting element for changing incident light with a wavelength band into outgoing light with a different wavelength band through the element. The light-valving structure and the color-adjusting structure at least partially overlap on the traveling path of light, forming at least one overlapping structure. Mixing the outgoing lights of the light source passing through light-valving structure, the color-adjusting structure, and the overlapping structure to obtain a different wavelength band (or color temperature) from that of the light source. A color adjusting apparatus for illumination includes the color adjusting device and a color adjusting method.
US08698979B2 Electroluminescent displays
A display including an electroluminescent layer, a liquid crystal layer, a barrier layer arranged between the electroluminescent layer and the liquid crystal layer to restrict migration of liquid crystal from the liquid crystal layer to the electroluminescent layer, and a first electrode and a second electrode arranged such that the electroluminescent layer and the liquid crystal layer are disposed between the first and second electrodes and arranged to apply an electric field across both the electroluminescent layer and the liquid crystal layer.
US08698977B2 Lighting device and display device
Provided is a lighting device (3) that includes a light guide plate (10) having a light entry surface (10a) through which the light originating from a light-emitting diode unit (9) enters, and a light-emitting surface (10c) from which the light that has entered through the light entry surface (10a) exits. The light-emitting diode unit (9) has light-emitting elements (26a and 27a) arranged linearly on a base member (28) with a prescribed interval therebetween, and sealing resin elements (26b and 27b) that seal respective light-emitting elements (26a and 27a). The light entry surface (10a) of the light guide plate (10) is shaped so as to engage with the sealing resin elements (26b and 27b).
US08698973B2 Liquid crystal display and method of disassembling the same
A liquid crystal display and a method of disassembling the same are disclosed. The liquid crystal display comprises a plastic frame, an optical film, a LCD panel and a double-sided tape. The plastic frame comprises two inner walls and two loading planes. The two inner walls respectively form a first accommodation space and a second accommodation space in communication mutually. One side of the double-sided tape respectively adheres the optical film, the other inner wall and the two loading planes, and the other side thereof adheres the LCD panel, and the optical film and the LCD panel are together installed in the plastic frame.
US08698967B2 Electro-optic device, electronic device, and method of manufacturing electro-optic device
A liquid crystal device as the electro-optic device according to the application example includes a transistor, a pixel electrode which is provided corresponding to the transistor, and a capacitive wiring of which a part is provided so as to face the pixel electrode between an element substrate and the pixel electrode, and configures a retention capacitor through the pixel electrode and a dielectric layer in which the capacitive wiring is formed so as to be embedded in an insulating film which is provided between the element substrate and the pixel electrode, the surface thereof on the pixel electrode side is planarized along with an insulating film.
US08698962B2 Content processing device
A content processing device includes an input section, a memory section, a selection section and an output section. The input section is configured to receive content having a video signal and a plurality of audio signals with different audio types. The memory section is configured to store selection information indicative of a predetermined audio type, and order information indicative of a preset order of a plurality of audio types. The selection section is configured to select one of the audio signals based on the selection information and the order information. The output section is configured to output the video signal and the one of the audio signals that was selected by the selection section.
US08698961B2 Enhanced histogram equalization
A video processor includes a video stream translation module configured to generate a translated luminance value for a pixel of a current frame of a video data stream. The translated luminance value is based on a first luminance value for the pixel and a first translation matrix for the current frame of the video data stream. The video processor includes a filter configured to generate an output luminance value for the pixel based on the translated luminance value and a target translated luminance value for the pixel. The output luminance value may be based on a weighted average of the translated luminance value and the target translated luminance value using a first weighting factor. The video processor may include a first weighting factor generator configured to generate the first weighting factor based on luminance values of the current frame of the video stream.
US08698960B2 Decoder and method for separating luminance and chrominance information from a composite video signal
A decoder and a method for separating luminance and chrominance information from a target pixel in a composite video signal are provided. The decoder comprises a delay module, a filter module, a weighting factor generator, and a separator. The delay module is configured to delay a plurality of horizontal lines of the composite video signal to output a plurality of pixels including the target pixel. The filter module is coupled to the delay module and configured to filter the composite video signal in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction to generate a plurality of frequency components. The weighting factor generator is configured to generate a first weighting factor of the target pixel according to the horizontal direction and a second weighting factor of the target pixel according to the vertical direction. The separator is configured to separate luminance information from the target pixel in accordance with the frequency components, the first weighting factor, and the second weighting factor.
US08698951B2 Camera module
Disclosed herein is a camera module including: a lens barrel mounted with a camera lens; a housing including an exposing hole and guide portions formed on the top thereof, the exposing hole being opposite to the camera lens; a printed circuit board fixed to the housing; and an LC lens module including an LC lens and guided to the guide portions of the housing to thereby be coupled to the housing so that the LC lens is positioned on the same axis as the center of the lens.
US08698949B2 Terminal having plurality of operating modes
There is set forth herein a terminal having an image sensor array and a plurality of operator selectable operating modes. The image sensor array can have an associated light source bank. The operator selectable operating modes can include at least one camera operating mode and at least one flashlight operating mode. In the at least one camera operating mode the image sensor array and light source bank can be controlled for optimization of frame capture. In the at least one flashlight operating mode the image sensor array and the light source bank can be controlled for optimizing illumination of an operators viewing area with reduced average power consumption.
US08698945B2 Autofocus apparatus and method
In automatically focusing on a subject in the field of view of a camera device, the camera device sets a focal length successively at one or more focal positions with an angle of the focus plane tilted so as not to be orthogonal to a normal optical path through the camera device. An image is taken at each of the focal positions. A comparison of data from each image is made so as to determine best focus. This comparison includes comparing data from at least two different locations along the tilted focus plane of at least one of the images.
US08698935B2 Solid-state image pickup device and camera having arrayed pixels including amplifying units
An solid state image pickup device including a plurality of photoelectric conversion regions (PD1, PD2) for generating carriers by photoelectric conversions to accumulate the generated carriers, an amplifying unit for amplifying the carriers, being commonly provided to at least two photoelectric conversion regions, a first and a second transfer units (Tx-MOS1, Tx-MOS2) for transferring the carriers accumulated in the first and the second photoelectric conversion regions, respectively, a first and a second carrier accumulating units (Cs1, Cs2) for accumulating the carriers flowing out from the first and the second photoelectric conversion regions through a first and a second fixed potential barriers, respectively, and a third and a fourth transfer units (Cs-MOS1, Cs-MOS2) for transferring the carriers accumulated in the first and the second carrier accumulating units to the amplifying unit, respectively.
US08698931B2 Photoelectric conversion apparatus and image pickup system
A photoelectric conversion apparatus includes signal processing units having a plurality of analog-to-digital converters, a first output unit having a plurality of first output terminals and include first output blocks provided in correspondence with the first output terminals, and a second output unit having one or more second output terminals and include second output blocks provided in correspondence with the second output terminals.
US08698930B2 Photoelectric conversion apparatus, focus detection apparatus, and image pickup system
A photoelectric conversion apparatus includes a plurality of unit pixels each including a first photoelectric conversion unit and a second photoelectric conversion unit, and a pixel output unit shared by the first photoelectric conversion unit and the second photoelectric conversion unit. The first photoelectric conversion unit is configured to be depleted when it is reset, while the second photoelectric conversion unit is configured not to be depleted when it is reset.
US08698929B2 Image sensor, method for operating thereof, and image pick-up device having the same
The image sensor includes a plurality of column lines, a plurality of active road circuits and a selection circuit. The plurality of column lines are each connected to a corresponding one of a plurality of pixels. The plurality of active road circuits are each connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of column lines. The selection circuit is configured to enable a portion of the plurality of active road circuits based on a plurality of column selection signals.
US08698925B2 Collimator bonding structure and method
An image sensor is disclosed that includes a solid state semiconductor imager having a metallized catch pad, a collimator having a metallized layer that faces a sensor anode, the metallized layer joined with the metallized catch pad to form a metal bond between the solid state semiconductor imager and the collimator. Methods of making the joined solid state semiconductor imager and collimator assembly are also disclosed.
US08698923B2 Image processing device, image processing method, and program for detecting and correcting defective pixel in image
An image processing device includes a texture direction determining unit that determines a texture direction of an image, a defective pixel detecting unit that calculates a pixel value average for each of pixel groups including a plurality of pixels, and detects a defective pixel position on the basis of difference information of the pixel value average according to an arrangement direction of the pixel groups, and a correction unit that corrects, as a correction target, a pixel value at the defective pixel position detected on the basis of the difference information in the same pixel group arrangement direction as the texture direction determined by the texture direction determining unit.
US08698920B2 Image display apparatus and image display method
An image display apparatus according to the present invention comprises: a face detection section detecting a face image within a photographed image; a classification section classifying the photographed image by a pattern of the face image and a color or a pattern under the face image; and a display control section displaying an image of the same face with the different color or pattern according to the classification by the classification section, and displays images of the same person among the plurality of images classified by the classification section at the same time or sequentially in the display of the display control section.
US08698908B2 Efficient method for reducing noise and blur in a composite still image from a rolling shutter camera
A rolling shutter digital camera. Each photographic image of a given exposure duration is captured as a multi-frame burst of frames each having a shorter exposure duration to minimize motion blur and to reduce sensor noise by averaging. Each frame is quantized into swaths, captured sequentially by the rolling shutter. Swaths of the first frames are analyzed to select a set of best motion detection reference regions. Swaths of subsequent frames are analyzed versus only those regions, to reduce required computation, and are re-registered accordingly. Corresponding swaths of each frame are accumulated. The accumulator is normalized to the desired bit depth and written as the final image. Averaging of the multiple frames is improved by re-registering swaths rather than entire frames, because of the time delta caused by the rolling shutter. Computation is further reduced by selecting candidate points only along a key line of each swath of the first frame, and still further by pre-limiting the search by using a thumbnail version of the first frame to cull most candidate points. Thresholds are used to ensure adequate motion detection regions are used for each swath.
US08698907B2 Image capture apparatus
Provided is an image capture apparatus which allows concurrent output of high resolution video images and high resolution still images even if the number of readout pixels is reduced. In the image capture apparatus, a solid-state imaging device which includes a plurality of pixels disposed in rows and columns, generates: first pixel mixture signals each obtained by mixing pixel signals for a first region including a predetermined number of the pixels; second pixel mixture signals each obtained by mixing pixel signals for a second region in the first region; and third pixel mixture signals each obtained by mixing pixel signals for a third region in the first region, and outputs, for each first region, one of the first pixel mixture signals, at least one of the second pixel mixture signals, and at least one of the third pixel mixture signals.
US08698904B2 Image capturing apparatus and method of controlling image capturing apparatus
An image capturing apparatus comprises: at least one vibration detection unit configured to detect a vibration applied to the image capturing apparatus and outputting a vibration signal; a calculation unit configured to calculate, based on the vibration signal output from the vibration detection unit, respective vibration correction signals for a plurality of correction units for performing a plurality of different correction processes, respectively; the correction units configured to correct the vibration based on the respective vibration correction signals calculated by the calculation unit; and a control unit configured to, when stopping the plurality of correction processes based on the vibration correction signals, shift the correction units to initial states serving as states of the correction units obtained when the vibration is not detected, wherein the control unit controls to simultaneously start moving the correction units to the initial states, and simultaneously stop moving the correction units.
US08698900B1 Display button key presses on display device
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for concurrently displaying on a display device, a selected main presentation and graphical shapes representative of button presses on a remote control. In one embodiment, the graphical shapes and the selected main presentation are displayed in two separate regions on the display screen. In another embodiment, the graphical shapes are overlaid on the selected main presentation. In yet another embodiment, the graphical shapes and the selected main presentation are displayed in a picture-in-picture format.
US08698898B2 Controlling robotic motion of camera
Among other disclosed subject matter, a system includes a first camera generating a live image of a scene, the first camera configured for being placed in a plurality of locations by robotic motion. The system includes a handheld device that includes a display device for continuously presenting the live image, wherein movement of the handheld device causes the handheld device to generate an output that controls the robotic motion.
US08698893B2 Device for monitoring an area of coverage on a work tool
A device for monitoring an area of coverage on a work tool may comprise a sensor, a camera, an evaluation unit, and at least one circuit output to activate the work tool only if no object is located in the area of coverage. The sensor may comprise a lighting unit to emit light rays to illuminate the area of coverage and a camera to detect three-dimensional images of the area of coverage, where the camera may include receiving elements in a matrix-type arrangement, the receiving elements to generate output signals. The evaluation unit is adapted to measure the output signals, to determine a distance value for each receiving element based on emitted light rays from the lighting unit traveling to the area of coverage and being reflected back.
US08698890B2 Method for controlling a TDI-CCD image sensor
A method for controlling a scanning apparatus for scanning a continuously moved object includes seizing the actual momentary position of the moving object, and controlling the time instant or period in which image information is captured by the scanning devices in dependence of the actual momentary position of the object. The scanning apparatus in which the method is used includes a multiplicity of line scanning devices arranged adjacent to each other in the direction of the movement of the moved object. Each of the line scanning devices has a multiplicity of pixels that are arranged adjacent to each other in a direction across a path along which the object is moved. The pixels of the line scanning devices accumulate charges according to the amount of incident light. A controlling means is provided for transferring the charges accumulated in individual pixels to pixels in the adjacent line scanning device in synchronism with direction of the movement and the speed of the moving object. The object is illuminated or transilluminated by a light source.
US08698888B2 Systems and methods for comprehensive human movement analysis
A method, system, and computer-readable medium receive module configuration settings to configure a customized human movement examination module for a human movement examination item. A patient is instructed with audio instructions associated with the customized human movement examination module. A single camera is controlled having progressive scan capabilities according to the module configuration settings to allow recording of a performance by the patient of the human movement examination item. The recorded data is analyzed based on the information provided by the single camera to measure human movement exhibited by the patient.
US08698886B2 Apparatus for estimating shape of insertion portion
An apparatus for estimating a shape of an insertion portion includes an insertion portion, an acceleration calculation unit calculating acceleration at measurement points, and a determination unit which determines whether the measurement points move. The apparatus further includes an attitude information calculation unit calculating attitude information of the measurement points in a resting state, an attitude estimation unit estimating a movement period attitude, a movement vector calculation unit calculating a movement vector of the measurement points, and a position calculation unit calculating a position of the measurement points. The apparatus further includes an image generation unit generating a display image expressing the position and the movement vector.
US08698884B2 Light source apparatus
A light source apparatus includes: a first light source unit including a plurality of light sources arranged therein, the plurality of light sources each emitting illuminating light in a first wavelength band; a second light source unit including a plurality of light sources arranged therein, the plurality of light sources each emitting illuminating light in a second wavelength band; an in-light source light guiding channel that guides the light emitted from the first light source unit and the light emitted from the second light source unit to a proximal end-side input end of a light guiding channel in an endoscope; and a light source control section that, based on endoscope information from an endoscope information storing section, divides the plurality of light sources in the first light source unit into a first light source group, light from which enters a vicinity of an optical axis of the proximal end-side input end of the light guiding channel in the endoscope, and a second light source group in a periphery of the first light source group, and divides the plurality of light sources in the second light source unit into a third light source group, light from which enters the vicinity of the optical axis of the proximal end-side input end of the light guiding channel in the endoscope, and a fourth light source group in a periphery of the third light source group, and performs control to decrease an output of the second light source group to be lower than an output of the first light source group and decrease an output of the fourth light source group to be lower than an output of the third light source group.
US08698876B2 Single camera device and method for 3D video imaging using a refracting lens array
An embodiment of the present invention may include an apparatus that captures 3D images having a lens barrel. The lens barrel may include a lens disposed at the first end of the lens barrel, an image capture element at the second end of the lens barrel, and a pair of refracting lenses positioned along the optical axis of the lens barrel. The first and second refracting lenses may be mounted to a first set and second set of positioning elements. The image capture element may capture images continuously at a predetermined frame rate, and the first and second set of positioning elements may continuously change the position of the first and second refracting lenses among a series of predetermined correlated positions based on the predetermined frame rate.
US08698863B2 Laser-markable compositions
Laser-markable compositions and methods for providing an image on a substrate are provided. A laser-markable composition can include a pigment, a solvent, and a conductive polymer that absorbs IR radiation. This can be used to mark a substrate, using a low-energy laser. Irradiation can be by means of a near-IR laser source, and the conductive polymer can absorb radiation and transfer heat to the pigment.
US08698845B2 Device, method, and graphical user interface with interactive popup views
A method of operating a multifunction device includes: displaying a respective view of a first application on the touch screen display, detecting a first touch gesture within the respective view, and in response to detecting the first touch gesture, displaying a popup view of the first application partially covering the respective view of the first application. The popup view corresponds to a full-screen-width view in a corresponding first application on a second multifunction device having a touch screen display with lower resolution than the touch screen display of the first multifunction device. The method further includes: detecting one or more second touch gestures within the popup view, and in response to detecting the one or more second touch gestures within the popup view, performing an action in the first application that updates a state of the first application.
US08698819B1 Software assisted shader merging
Embodiments for programming a graphics pipeline, and modules within the graphics pipeline, are detailed herein. One embodiment described a method of implementing software assisted shader merging for a graphics pipeline. The method involves accessing a first shader program in memory, and generating a first shader instruction from that program. This first instruction is loaded into an instruction table at a first location, indicated by an offset register. A second shader program in memory is then accessed, and used to generate a second shader instruction. The second shader instruction is loaded into the instruction table at a second location indicated by the offset register.
US08698818B2 Software rasterization optimization
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for optimizing emulated fixed-function and programmable graphics operations are provided. Data comprising fixed function and programmable states for an image or scenario to be rendered is received. The data for the image is translated into operations. One or more optimizations are applied to the operations. The optimized operations are implemented to render the scenario.
US08698816B2 Graphics processing systems with multiple processors connected in a ring topology
Multiple graphics processors in a graphics processing system are interconnected in a unidirectional or bidirectional ring topology, allowing pixels to transferred from any one graphics processor to any other graphics processor. The system can automatically identify one or more “master” graphics processors to which one or more monitors are connected and configures the links of the ring such that one or more other graphics processors can deliver pixels to the master graphics processor, facilitating distributed rendering operations. The system can also automatically detect the connections or lack thereof between the graphics processors.
US08698806B2 System and method for performing volume rendering using shadow calculation
A method and a system are provided for performing volume rendering a 3D array of image data to produce images with an increased spatial information and thus increase the usefulness of the generated images.
US08698802B2 Hermite gregory patch for watertight tessellation
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth technique for watertight tessellation in a displaced subdivision surface. A subdivision surface is represented as a novel parametric quad patch that is continuous with respect to position (C0) and partial derivatives (C1) along boundaries as well as interior regions. The novel parametric quad patch is referred to herein as a Hermite Gregory patch and comprises a Hermite patch augmented to include a pair of twist vector parameters per vertex. Each pair of twist vectors is combined into one twist vector during evaluation, according to weights based on proximity to parametric boundaries. Evaluation yields an approximation mesh comprising a position for each vertex and a corresponding normal vector for the vertex. Displacement is performed based on the approximation mesh and a displacement map to generate a displaced approximation mesh that is reflective of the displaced subdivision surface.
US08698801B2 Method of visualizing geometric uncertainties
A method of constructing an enveloping mesh geometry (EMG) for a plurality of sample mesh geometries (MG). The enveloping mesh geometry is a geometric representation of the mean of the probability distribution underlying the sample space from which the enveloping mesh geometry (MG) have been drawn. The method is based on estimating probability densities fj using the kernel density method. The method further comprises constructing, based on the enveloping mesh geometry (EMG) so constructed, further enveloping mesh geometries (EMG-α) related to the α-Quantiles of the probability distribution. The enveloping mesh geometries (EMG, MG-α) are suitable for development and test procedures in aircraft and automotive manufacturing processes.
US08698797B2 Method and device for generating multi-views three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic image
A method and a device for generating a multi-views three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic image are based on displaying positions of target image elements of each view image of a multi-views 3D stereoscopic image in a 3D stereo display. Source image elements suitable to be displayed at each displaying position are obtained from a 2D-depth mixed image formed by combining a source 2D image and a corresponding depth map through an inverse view image searching manner, thereby generating a multi-views 3D stereoscopic image from the set target image elements for being displayed in the 3D stereo display.
US08698796B2 Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and program
In an image processing apparatus, a feature point acquirer acquires feature points, which are characteristic points on a face in an image presenting a face. A supplementary feature point calculator calculates supplementary feature points on the basis of the feature points acquired by the feature point acquirer. An image transform unit utilizes the feature points and the supplementary feature points to transform the image so as to match the structure of a face in a projected image that depicts the surface of a given three-dimensional face shape projected onto a flat plane.
US08698794B2 Computer-readable storage medium having overhead map resource generation program stored therein, computer-readable storage medium having overhead map display program stored therein, overhead map resource generation apparatus, and overhead map display apparatus
In a virtual three-dimensional space, an overhead image of a region in the virtual three-dimensional space is shot by a virtual camera provided in the virtual three-dimensional space. Next, it is determined whether or not the information about a color included in the shot overhead image satisfies a predetermined condition. Image data of the overhead image which it is determined in the result of the determination does not satisfy the predetermined condition is accumulated in a predetermined storage medium, thereby generating resource data. The above processing is repeated until all overhead images corresponding to a predetermined region in the virtual three-dimensional space are shot.
US08698781B2 Optical touch device
An optical touch device includes a transparent substrate and at least a light emitting and receiving unit. The transparent substrate has a touch surface, a first light incidence surface and a first light emitting surface. Each light emitting and receiving unit includes a linear light source, a light path adjusting component and a light sensing component. The linear light source is disposed beside the first light incidence surface. The light path adjusting component is disposed between the linear light source and the first light incidence surface and configured for adjusting the incidence angles of the optical signals striking at the first incidence surface so that each of the optical signals enters into the transparent substrate through the first incidence surface with a predetermined angle. The light sensing component is disposed beside the first light emitting surface. The optical touch device has a high light utility efficiency.
US08698774B2 Method for determining multiple touch points by pairing detected electrodes during a second touch sensing period
Provided is a capacitance coupling type on-screen input image display device that enables multipoint detection in a short period of time. The on-screen input image display device includes: a detection circuit (4) for detecting a change in capacitance between the plurality of X coordinate electrodes and the plurality of Y coordinate electrodes of the touch sensor (3); a touch panel control circuit (6) for determining a touched coordinate point; and a main control circuit (7) for receiving touch coordinate data from the touch panel control circuit (6). The main control circuit (7) judges occurrence of a user's touch and coordinates of the occurrence from the touch coordinate data, and supplies a display signal corresponding to the judged coordinates to the display device (1) via the display control circuit (2), whereby the display signal is reflected on the display.
US08698772B2 Visual object manipulation
In one example, a method includes outputting, at a first location of a presence-sensitive display of a computing device, a first graphical object and receiving an indication of a first touch gesture detected at a second location of the presence-sensitive display. The method may further include, in response to receiving the indication of the first touch gesture, outputting, at the second location, a second graphical object and receiving an indication of a second touch gesture originating within a predetermined distance of the second location and moving towards the first location. The method may further include outputting movement of the second graphical object into contact with the first graphical object. The method may also include, in response to outputting movement of the second graphical object into contact with the first graphical object, outputting at a third location, the first graphical object that is a determined distance away from the first location.
US08698757B2 Computer-readable storage medium having calibration program, coordinate detection apparatus and calibration method
The present invention is a calibration program executed by a computer of an information processing apparatus which is capable of utilizing designation detection means for detecting a position designation by a user. The calibration program causes the computer to function as designation image display means and calibration means. The designation image display means displays a predetermined designation image indicating a designation reference position which is a predetermined position on display means. The calibration means receives, while the designation image is displayed, a designation by the user using the designation detection means, sets a designated position at which continuous designation by the user has ended as a fixed position, and executes calibration processing in accordance with the fixed position and the designation reference position.
US08698754B2 Keypad for electronic device and manufacturing method thereof
A keypad for an electronic device and manufacturing method thereof having at least one or more ink layers which selectively let pass or cut off a light wavelength of at least one or more light emitting diodes generating light in accordance with an opened or closed direction of a folder. At least one or more light emitting elements for generating light in various colors are provided, and a diffusion ink layer is arranged above the light emitting elements. At least one or more ink layers provided on the diffusion ink layer, wherein the ink layers selectively let passes or cut-off light wavelengths of the light emitting elements when the folder is rotated or slid in a longitudinal or perpendicular direction. A transparent or semi-transparent ink layer is provided on the ink layers, and a sheet film layer is provided on the transparent or semi-transparent ink layer.
US08698752B2 Multi-functional control interface
A system and method are used to provide a user control interface for controlling multiple device functionality. The system comprises a support structure, control regions, depressible interaction devices, and a controller. The control regions are formed on the support structure. Each of the control regions comprises one or more light emitting panels. The depressible interaction devices cover respective ones of the control regions. The controller is coupled to the control regions and controls which portion of the one or more light emitting panels is output from respective ones of the interaction devices based on one or more modes of operation of the user control interface.
US08698745B2 Configuring the functionality of control elements of a control device based on orientation
A control device controls the functionality of two or more sets of control elements. A processing unit of the control device determines that it is oriented in a first zone or in a second zone based on input received from a magnetometer. The first and second zones are defined with respect to a magnetic reference point and are oriented relative to a controlled device or an electronic device. If the processing unit determines that the control device is oriented in the first zone, the processing unit configures a first functionality for the first set of control elements. If the control device's orientation changes from being oriented in the first zone to being oriented in the second zone, the processing unit configures the first set of control elements with a second functionality.
US08698744B2 Methods and apparatuses for operating a portable device based on an accelerometer
Methods and apparatuses for operating a portable device based on an accelerometer are described. According to one embodiment of the invention, a movement of a portable device is detected using an accelerometer attached to the portable device. An orientation of the portable device after the movement is determined based on movement data provided by the accelerometer. It is determined whether the portable device is held by a user after the movement based on the movement data provided by the accelerometer. Locations of the hands of the user for holding the portable device are determined based on the orientation of the portable device. At least one interface that is not within the predicted locations of the hands of the user is activated.
US08698739B2 Input apparatus following task flow and image forming apparatus using the same
An input apparatus includes a command input unit to input a command, a key input unit having at least one key, a navigation key input unit having a rotatable navigation key, and a display panel unit to perform displaying according to manipulation of the command input unit, the key input unit, and the navigation key. In the input apparatus, the command input unit, the key input unit, the navigation key input unit, and the display panel unit are arranged in sequence according to a task flow, so a user-friendly input apparatus can be implemented.
US08698734B2 Electrophoretic display device, driving method of the same, and electronic apparatus
An electrophoretic display device is provided with a first substrate, a second substrate, an electrophoretic layer which is arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate and has at least a dispersion medium and particles mixed in the dispersion medium, a first electrode which is formed in an island shape on the electrophoretic layer side of the first substrate for each pixel, and a second electrode which is formed on the electrophoretic layer side of the second substrate with an area wider than the first electrode, where gradation is controlled using an area of the particles which are visually recognized when the electrophoretic layer is viewed from the second electrode side.
US08698724B2 Liquid crystal display device, scan signal drive device, liquid crystal display device drive method, scan signal drive method, and television receiver
In one embodiment, a liquid crystal display device is disclosed in which a gate driver applies a gate-on pulse so that a second period is longer than a first period. Among gate-on pulses applied before the moment of polarity inversion of a data signal, the last end of the gate-on pulse nearest to the moment of the polarity inversion is earlier than the end time of the horizontal period during which the gate-on pulse is applied. The first period starts at the last end of the gate-on pulse and ends at the end time of the horizontal period during which the gate-on pulse is applied. The second period starts at the moment of the polarity inversion and ends at the moment of the application start of the gate-on pulse nearest to the moment of the polarity inversion among the gate-on pulses applied after the polarity inversion.
US08698713B2 Display systems having screens with optical fluorescent materials
Fluorescent screens and display systems and devices based on such screens using at least one excitation optical beam to excite one or more fluorescent materials on a screen which emit light to form images. The fluorescent materials may include phosphor materials and non-phosphor materials such as quantum dots. A screen may include a multi-layer dichroic layer.
US08698712B2 Pixel structure of active matrix organic electroluminescent display panel and method of making the same
A pixel structure of active matrix organic electroluminescent display panel includes a first light emitting device, a first driving switching device electrically connected to the first light emitting device for driving the first light emitting device, a second light emitting device, a second driving switching device electrically connected to the second light emitting device for driving the second light emitting device, and at least one addressing switching device electrically connected to at least one of the first driving switching device and the second driving switching device.
US08698688B2 Antenna with improved holed system ground plane
An antenna with an improved holed system ground plane comprises a substrate, a radiation conductor member, a grounding member and a system ground plane. The radiation conductor member is arranged on the surface of the substrate. The grounding member is arranged on one edge of the substrate. The radiation conductor member is connected with the grounding member. The system ground plane is connected with one side of the grounding member. The system ground plane has at least one arbitrary-shaped hole. A radiation-enhancing filler is disposed in the arbitrary-shaped hole. The present invention solves the conventional problems that the system ground plane is drilled or cut to accommodate components and IC chips, keep away from wiring routes and avoid protrusions on the appearance, via disposing radiation-enhancing fillers in the arbitrary-shaped holes. Thereby is kept integrality of the system ground plane and promoted omnidirectionality of signal transmission.
US08698677B2 Mobile wireless terminal and antenna device
A mobile wireless terminal includes a housing, a cover removably attached to the housing, and an antenna device disposed inside the housing. The antenna device includes a first antenna element that is disposed inside the housing and serves as a feed element, a plate that provides a ground plane for the first antenna element, and a second antenna element that is formed on one surface of the cover so as to face the first antenna element with the cover being attached to the housing and capacitively couple to the first antenna element and that serves as a parasitic element.
US08698673B2 Multiband antenna
A multiband antenna includes a ground plane, a dielectric substrate and a radiating metal portion. The dielectric substrate is located at one side edge of the ground plane. The radiating metal portion is disposed on one surface of the dielectric substrate and includes a first metal portion and a second metal portion. The first metal portion is substantially of an L-shape. One end of the first metal portion is adjacent to the side edge of the ground plane and is the antenna's feeding point connected to a signal source, and the other end of the first metal portion is an open end. The second metal portion comprises a U-shape portion. The second metal portion includes a first open end and a second open end, which are respectively located on two opposite sides of the open end of the first metal portion. The first open end has a first coupling gap between the first open end and the open end of the first metal portion, and the second open end has a second coupling gap between the second open end and the open end of the first metal portion. The second metal portion is further short-circuited to the ground plane by a shorting metal line.
US08698657B2 Methods and systems for compressing and decompressing data
The present invention relates to data compression using compression dictionary. A compression method according to the invention comprises obtaining an initial compression dictionary and a separate secondary dictionary SD; determining at least one subpart of the secondary dictionary that correlates with a block of data DB to compress; updating the initial compression dictionary by inserting the determined at least one subpart therein, to obtain an updated compression dictionary used for compressing the block of data; and compressing the block of data using one or more references to entries of the obtained updated compression dictionary.
US08698645B2 Method for event sensing employing a printed event sensor
A method for event sensing employs an event sensor comprising a detector and circuitry, connected thereto, produced by printed electronics processes. Operation may rely on fixed characteristic devices, such as a series resistive chain, or variable characteristic devices such as thin film transistors (TFTs) and the like. A pulse is input to the printed electronic circuitry. The printed electronic circuitry divides the pulse across the various devices comprising the circuitry according to pulse amplitude and pulse width. The circuitry provides an output signal which is provided to a plurality of display elements capable of indicating the division performed at the printed electronic circuitry. In one embodiment, each display element is an electrophoretic display which changes contrast as a function of the applied voltage. Not only the pulse amplitude and pulse width, but the number of pulses applied to the printed circuitry (i.e., sensed by the detector) may be indicated.
US08698644B2 Sample processing apparatus, sample container transporting apparatus, sample processing method and sample container transporting method
The present invention is a sample processing apparatus including: a sample processing unit configured to process a sample contained in a sample container; one or more detectors located to detect the sample container both before and after the sample contained therein is processed by the sample processing unit; and a controller configured to perform an operation to alert a user if the one or more detectors fail to detect the sample container after the sample processing unit processed the sample in the sample container.
US08698630B2 RFID remote antenna security system
An RFID remote antenna security system for preventing unauthorized reading of RFID cards. The RFID remote antenna security system generally includes a remote unit that is attached to or near a conventional RFID reader. The remote unit includes at least one remote contact in communication with a remote antenna. A carrier member is provided that includes at least one contact and an RFID chip that is in communication with the at least one contact. When the contact of the carrier member is physically connected to the remote contact of the remote unit, the radio waves received by the remote antenna are communicated to the RFID chip and the RFID chip transmits radio waves including data from the remote antenna for reading by the RFID reader.
US08698623B1 Child monitor device
The child monitor device provides a caregiver monitor for communication with a plurality of bracelets, each lockable, flexible and softly covered bracelet typically for a child to wear. Bracelet locks are provided as purely mechanical and also in electronic locking. Locks used further include a lock sleeve to cover the lock. Each bracelet includes audio alarm. Each bracelet provides for GPS and a USB port for communication with other devices and even for charging the battery pack. The caregiver monitor provides a touchscreen that further comprises fingerprint recognition so that only those approved in advance by the caregiver monitor are allowed device control. The touchscreen further provides GPS mapping and function controls such as alarm distances between the monitor and the bracelets and alarm controls.
US08698604B2 Reader control system
An RFID reader control system and method is provided. A protocol for controlling an RFID reader and an RFID reader control unit of a mobile phone is defined. Messages, information, commands, responses, and notification are constructed and transmitted between the RFID reader and the RFID reader control unit.
US08698601B2 Method for card-reading anti-collision with automatic frequency hopping
A method for card-reading anti-collision with automatic frequency hopping is provided, which is used for a system in which a card reader simultaneously reads a plurality of cards in radio frequency identification technologies. The method comprises: both the card reader and the cards to be read are configured to have an automatic frequency-sweep function and a function of hopping from a current channel to another channel, and to store access addresses and transaction addresses; when the card reader is in a frequency-hopping card-seeking state, it is in an n-channel frequency-hopping working state, in which, the access address of each channel is the same, and the card reader reads the cards by means of hopping frequencies in a sequence iteratively through n channels. When the card reader detects that two or more cards collide, the card reader sends a command of random frequency hopping, making all the conflicting cards to hop to other channels randomly and to wait to access those channels. The beneficial effects of said method includes: it can quickly realize a card-reading anti-collision mechanism and improve the card-reading speed.
US08698598B2 Digital punch card for mobile device
A method for verifying a location of a user of a mobile device is disclosed. The method involves: receiving an indicia of a location of the mobile device based on an at-location element proximate to the mobile device; receiving a global positioning system (GPS) position associated with the mobile device; determining whether at least one security condition is satisfied based on the indicia of the location and the GPS position; and causing a next action to occur when the at least one security condition is satisfied, or not causing the next action to occur when the at least one security condition is not satisfied.
US08698595B2 System and method for enhanced RFID instrument security
A system and method for using an RFID read/write device to secure an RFID operable instrument or an RF communication is provided. The invention includes security databases in communication with a processor for storing and communicating security protocols to the RFID read/write device. The invention includes a method for restricting the unauthorized use of an RFID read/write device. The invention includes a subscription service for communicating user credentials to a certificate authority to obtain a counter security protocol. The invention also includes decrypting information stored on an RF operable device or transmitted via radio-frequency using counter security protocols.
US08698593B2 Chip resistor and method of manufacturing the same
There is provided a chip resistor including a ceramic substrate; a first resistance layer formed on the ceramic substrate and including a first conductive metal and a first glass; and a second resistance layer formed on the first resistance layer, including a second conductive metal and a second glass, and having a smaller content of glass than the first resistance layer, thereby obtaining relatively low resistance and a relatively small temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR).
US08698591B2 Method for operation of multi-layer-multi-turn high efficiency tunable inductors
A multi-layer, multi-turn structure for an inductor having a plurality of conductor layers separated by layers of insulator is described. The inductor further comprises a connector electrically connected between the conductor layers. The structure of the inductor may comprise a cavity therewithin. The structure of the inductor constructed such that electrical resistance is reduced therewithin, thus increasing the efficiency of the inductor. The inductor is particularly useful at operating within the radio frequency range and greater.
US08698590B2 Method for operation of multi-layer-multi-turn high efficiency inductors with cavity structure
A multi-layer, multi-turn structure for an inductor having a plurality of conductor layers separated by layers of insulator is described. The inductor further comprises a connector electrically connected between the conductor layers. The structure of the inductor may comprise a cavity therewithin. The structure of the inductor constructed such that electrical resistance is reduced therewithin, thus increasing the efficiency of the inductor. The inductor is particularly useful at operating within the radio frequency range and greater.
US08698582B2 Relay
A relay includes two stators and a movable element. Each stator has a fixed contact and includes an excitation portion that has a winding shape and generates a magnetic field. The movable element has movable contacts. In a magnetic flux of the magnetic field generated by the excitation portion, a movable element passing magnetic flux that passes through the movable element is orthogonal to a direction of current flowing in the movable element and a moving direction of the movable element. A Lorentz force that is generated by the movable element passing magnetic flux and the current flowing in the movable element acts in a direction for bringing the movable contacts into contact with the fixed contacts.
US08698580B2 Surface acoustic wave device and method for manufacturing the same
A surface acoustic wave device includes first interconnections and second interconnections connected to a potential different from a potential connected to the first interconnections that are arranged on a piezoelectric substrate. The first interconnections three-dimensionally intersect with the second interconnections with insulating layers made of a thermosetting resin, disposed therebetween. Interdigital electrodes defining IDTs are films which have six-fold rotational symmetric spots appearing in an XRD pole figure and which are defined by Al films or Al—Cu alloy films containing Cu in an amount not greater than the solubility limit at about 25° C.
US08698577B2 Three-dimensional microstructures
An apparatus comprising a first power combiner/divider network and a second power combiner/divider network. The first power combiner/divider network splits a first electromagnetic signal into split signals that are connectable to signal processor(s). The second power combiner/divider network combines processed signals into a second electromagnetic signal. The apparatus includes a three-dimensional coaxial microstructure.
US08698576B2 Isolated zero degree reactive radio frequency high power combiner
An exemplary communication device includes a combiner having a first transmission line configured to be coupled with a first communication component. A second transmission line is configured to be coupled with a second communication component. A third transmission line is coupled with the first and second transmission lines. An isolation module is coupled with the first and second transmission lines. The isolation module has a resistance, a capacitance and an inductance configured to isolate the first communication component from the second communication component if one of the components is inoperative. The isolation module components are also configured to provide RF matching for the first and second transmission lines if one of the components is inoperative.
US08698572B2 Delay line calibration
A tunable delay line is calibrated to maintain the delay of the delay line at a desired value or within a desired range of values. In some aspects a signal is passed through a delay line multiple times so that the cumulative delay of the signal through the delay line (e.g., as indicated by a count) may be calculated over a period of time. The count is compared with an expected count and, based on this comparison, the delay of the delay line is adjusted as necessary. In some aspects the signal may comprise a digital signal. In some aspects a delay through a delay line may be calculated based on analysis of amplitude changes in a signal caused by a phase shift imparted on the signal by the delay line. In some aspects a delay line is incorporated into a transmitted reference system to generate and/or process transmitted reference signals.
US08698567B2 Phase-locked loop calibration system and method
In a phase-locked loop (PLL) calibration system and method, the PLL input reference clock is phase-modulated, the resulting PLL output modulation is measured, and PLL calibration signals, such as a PLL proportional path adjustment signal and a PLL integral path adjustment signal, are derived from the measured PLL output modulation.
US08698549B2 Power device
A power device possesses a built-in fuse function and can continue to normally operate after a short circuit failure. The power device includes a plurality of output cells, a plurality of bonding wires provided corresponding to the output cells, and a control terminal driving circuit. Each of the output cells includes an output transistor. First side electrodes of the output transistors are commonly coupled to a first power source. Each of second side electrodes of the output transistors is coupled to an output terminal through the corresponding bonding wire. The control terminal driving circuit supplies a drive signal to the control terminals of the individual output transistors to control the output transistors. Each of the bonding wires is designed to be fused and cut if the output transistor included in the corresponding output cell fails and is shorted.
US08698539B1 Interference mitigation in mixed signal integrated circuits (ICs)
A clock generation circuit in an IC is provided for mitigating signal interferences caused by an aggressor block operable on a first clock signal with a frequency range of a victim block. The clock generation circuit includes a gating circuit configured to perform gating of a second clock signal to generate a third clock signal based on control signal. An average frequency of the third clock signal is substantially matched to a frequency of the first clock signal, and harmonics of the third clock signal do not interfere with the frequency range of the victim block. The clock generation circuit further includes a FIFO buffer circuit configured to receive the first clock signal as a write clock and the third clock signal as read clock, and a control circuit for generating the control signal based on an occupancy level of FIFO buffer circuit and a plurality of random numbers.
US08698530B2 High precision synchronisation method and system
Method of synchronizing clocks between a first reference clock and a second clock to be slaved on the frequency of the reference clock, the two sharing a common clock, this method comprising the following steps: calculation of the integer part of the timestamp using the reference clock and the common clock; generation of a system clock local to the reference clock; calculation of the phase shift between the system clock signal and the reference clock signal; calculation of the phase shift between the system clock signal and the common clock signal; calculation of the decimal part of the timestamp; sending of the decimal timestamp to the second clock; slaving of the second clock using the common clock and the timestamp received.
US08698520B2 Output slew rate control
This document discusses, among other things, output slew rate control. Methods and structures are described to provide slew rate control of an output driver circuit such as a DRAM output driver on a die. A selectable combination of series coupled transistors are configured as a parallel array of complementary inverter pairs to provide a divided voltage to a calibrator. The calibrator is configured to respond to a differential voltage to adjust the divided voltage such that the differential voltage is forced to zero. The calibrator outputs a plurality of discrete signals from an up/down counter to toggle the individual transistors of the parallel array to increase and decrease a collective current. In some embodiments, transistor channel currents are modulated to step-adjust a voltage based on a ratio associated with a static resistance. In various embodiments, the divided voltage is an analog voltage based on a resistance associated with trim circuitry.
US08698517B2 Computing multi-magnet based devices and methods for solution of optimization problems
A computing multi-magnet device and method for solving complex computational problems is provided. Embodiments include a first magnet, a second magnet, and an interconnect between and interconnecting the first and second magnets, the interconnect configured to allow the first and second magnets to communicate via a voltage or current applied to the first and second magnet and conducted by the interconnect. The scalability of computing multi-magnet device provides solutions to algorithms that have exponentially increasing complexity.
US08698516B2 Apparatus for improving performance of field programmable gate arrays and associated methods
A field programmable gate array (FPGA) includes a set of monitor circuits adapted to provide indications of process, voltage, and temperature for at least one circuit in the FPGA, and a controller adapted to derive a range of body-bias values for the at least one circuit from the indications of process, voltage, and temperature for the at least one circuit. The FPGA further includes a body-bias generator adapted to provide a body-bias signal to at least one transistor in the at least one circuit. The body-bias signal has a value within the range of body-bias values.
US08698514B2 Electrical characteristic measuring substrate
An electrical characteristic measuring substrate includes a plurality of laminated dielectric layers, front-surface coplanar lines disposed at a front surface of the substrate, back-surface coplanar electrodes disposed at a back surface thereof, and interlayer ground electrodes disposed between dielectric layers. First ends of the front-surface coplanar lines define a front-surface component mounting electrode, and first ends of the back-surface coplanar lines define a back-surface component mounting electrode. The front-surface component mounting electrode and the back-surface component mounting electrode have substantially the same pattern when viewed from the direction perpendicular to the front surface. Each of the front-surface component mounting electrode and the back-surface component mounting electrode has an electrode pattern asymmetric about a substantially central line of the front surface or about that of the back surface.
US08698505B2 Measurement apparatus detecting consumption current of a display
A measurement apparatus includes a display unit, a current detection unit configured to output a detection signal if an increase in a consumption current of the display unit is detected, a plurality of setting units each of which is configured to output an output signal, each of the plurality of setting units changing the output signal if the detection signal is received, and a diagnosis unit configured to receive the output signal, the diagnosis unit diagnosing the increase in the consumption current.
US08698502B2 Methods and systems for estimating formation resistivity and porosity
A method for analyzing a subterranean formation porosity is disclosed. The apparent dielectric constant of the subterranean formation and an apparent resistivity of the subterranean formation are measured. The measured values are used to determine a measured formation loss tangent. The formation water loss tangent can be expressed by the water dielectric constant and the water resistivity. The measured formation loss tangent and the formation water loss tangent are then used to determine at least one of an actual dielectric constant of the subterranean formation water and an actual resistivity of the subterranean formation water. The actual formation porosity may be obtained using the estimated water resistivity and water dielectric constant.
US08698501B2 Method for distinguishing a locating signal from a false locating signal
A method is described for use in a region which contains at least first and second in-ground cables, each of which cables includes an electrically conductive component such that, when the first cable is driven at a locating signal frequency to emit a locating signal in an electromagnetic form, the locating signal can be coupled to the second cable in a way which causes the second cable to generate a false locating signal in electromagnetic form. The locating signal is received along with the false locating signal as well as receiving a reference signal which contains the locating signal frequency impressed thereon. The locating signal is distinguished from the false locating signal based on the locating signal frequency as contained by the reference signal.
US08698498B2 Low field squid MRI devices, components and methods
Low field SQUID MRI devices, components and methods are disclosed. They include a portable low field (SQUID)-based MRI instrument and a portable low field SQUID-based MRI system to be operated under a bed where a subject is adapted to be located. Also disclosed is a method of distributing wires on an image encoding coil system adapted to be used with an NMR or MRI device for analyzing a sample or subject and a second order superconducting gradiometer adapted to be used with a low field SQUID-based MRI device as a sensing component for an MRI signal related to a subject or sample.
US08698497B2 Multi-field-of-view gradient coil
A coil assembly for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system includes a primary gradient coil, and a corrector coil, at least a portion of the corrector coil being interwoven with a portion of the primary gradient coil such that the portion of the primary gradient coil is concentric with the portion of the corrector coil. An MRI imaging system and a method of fabricating the coil assembly are also provided.
US08698490B2 Magnetoresistive angle sensors having conductors arranged in multiple planes
Magnetoresistive angle sensors, sensor systems and methods are disclosed. In an embodiment, a magnetoresistive angle sensor includes a first plurality of conductors arranged in parallel with one another in a first plane to form a first array; a second plurality of conductors arranged in parallel with one another in a second plane to form a second array, the second plane being different from and spaced apart from the first plane, and the second plurality of conductors being orthogonally arranged with respect to the first plurality of conductors; and at least one magnetoresistive element disposed between the first plane and the second plane.
US08698482B2 UWB measuring device capable of reducing disturbance in external signals
The invention relates to a measuring device, especially for a machine tool and/or a manual measuring device, comprising a measuring unit (12a-d) that is adapted to measure and an external signal recognition unit (14a-d). The invention is characterized in that the external signal recognition unit (14a-d) is adapted to recognize an external signal during and/or prior to a measurement of the measuring unit (12a-d).
US08698474B2 Start-up circuit with low standby power loss for power converters
A start-up circuit with low standby power loss for power converters according to present invention comprises a first diode and a second diode coupled to an input voltage of the power converter. A start-up resistor is coupled to the join of the first diode and the second diode. A high-voltage switch is coupled to the start-up resistor to generate a power source. A control circuit generates a switching signal for switching a transformer. A detection circuit generates a disable signal in response to the input voltage to disable the switching signal. A winding of the transformer is coupled to the power source to generate the power for the power source. The high-voltage switch is turned off to cut off the start-up resistor for saving the power loss once the voltage of the power source is higher than a threshold.
US08698472B2 Adjustable driver voltage source for a switching power supply and method for adjusting driver voltage in a switching power supply
An adjustable driver voltage source for a switching power supply uses a linear regulator to provide a driver voltage, and a modulator to adjust the driver voltage according to the loading change of the switching power supply. The modulator may lower the driver voltage at light load to reduce the switching loss and thereby increase the power efficiency of the switching power supply.
US08698469B1 System and method for predicting output voltage ripple and controlling a switched-mode power supply
A system includes a sinc filter module and a cyclic integrator module. The sinc filter module (i) determines a direct current (DC) voltage component of an error between a measured output voltage of a switched-mode power supply and a reference voltage and (ii) determines a signal with ripple by subtracting the determined DC voltage component from the error. The cyclic integrator module (i) applies a learning gain to a difference between the determined signal with ripple and a predicted ripple, (ii) performs integration of each of N segments of the gain-applied difference, and (iii) generates the predicted ripple by reconstructing the N integrated segments, wherein N is an integer greater than one.
US08698465B2 Control circuit for power supply including a detection circuit and a regulation circuit for regulating switching timing
A control circuit for controlling a power supply including a first switch and a second switch coupled in series between a first potential and a second potential. The control circuit includes a detection circuit that detects a magnitude relation of a voltage value at a node between the first and second switches and a reference value during a period in which the first switch and the second switch are inactivated. The detection circuit generates a control signal corresponding to the magnitude relation. A regulation circuit regulates a switching timing of the second switch in response to the control signal to decrease a difference between the voltage value at the node and the reference value.
US08698459B2 Battery pack and method of controlling the same
A battery pack and a method of controlling the same are disclosed. According to some aspects, the battery pack includes at least one chargeable battery cell, and a charge control circuit that receives a control signal from an external source. The charge control circuit is configured to control charging of the battery cell according to the control signal. As a result, a charging operation may be stably performed.
US08698458B2 Battery pack having boosting charge function and method thereof
A method of charging a battery pack, the battery pack including at least one battery cell. The method includes comparing a battery cell voltage to a first voltage; comparing the battery cell voltage to a second voltage that is greater than the first voltage; and controlling a current amplifying unit coupled to the at least one battery cell to amplify a current from a charger to the at least one battery cell if the battery cell voltage is between the first voltage and the second voltage.
US08698454B2 Charging appraratus for portable electronic device
A charging apparatus is used to support and charge an electronic device 90, and includes a holding portion, a rotating portion and an adjusting portion. The holding portion defines a receiving groove. The rotating portion is pivotedly received in the receiving groove to support the electronic device and fixed with a slave gear. The adjusting portion is fixed on the holding portion and includes a motor accompanying with a master gear engaging with the slave gear. The master gear is driven by the motor to rotate and subsequently dives the slave gear rotate causing the rotating portion to rotate relative to the holding portion by engagement between the master gear and the slave gear, so as to adjust an angle between the electronic device and the holding portion.
US08698453B2 Full charge control apparatus for onboard battery
A full charge control apparatus includes a temperature detection accuracy decision unit and a full charge decision unit. The temperature detection accuracy decision unit detects an engine speed, a vehicle speed and an ambient temperature and, based on these surrounding conditions, determines whether the difference between the temperature of the battery estimated from a measurement by a temperature sensor and a true battery temperature falls within a specified accuracy range. If the battery temperature measurement accuracy is not within the specified range, the criteria for judging the fully charged state of the battery are modified to ensure that the battery will not be under-charged.
US08698447B2 Energy saving system and method for devices with rotating or reciprocating masses
A system and method are provided for reducing the energy consumed by a pump jack electric motor by reducing the supply voltage to the motor when the motor would be generating energy in open loop mode. By substantially eliminating the energy generation mode, the braking action of the utility grid in limiting the acceleration of the motor and system that would otherwise occur is substantially removed. The motor and system will speed up, allowing the natural kinetic energy of the cyclic motion to perform part of the pumping action.
US08698446B2 Method to save energy for devices with rotating or reciprocating masses
A system and method are disclosed for turning off the voltage to a pump jack electric motor during predetermined periods of time to save energy. In the method, the motor's response to closed-loop control may be evaluated over several pump strokes. The periods of the pump stroke when it is feasible to turn off the motor may be identified. The consistency of the measurements over several strokes may be evaluated. The motor may be turned off during predetermined periods on subsequent pump strokes when each pump stroke shows sufficiently similar behavior to that predicted during the closed-loop control process. The system may return to the closed-loop control process after a predetermined period of time to adjust to any changes in the system.
US08698445B2 Method for activating an asynchronous motor
The method for activating an asynchronous motor comprising at least two windings is provided, in order, for the purpose of a change in the rotational speed, to connect a first winding and at least one second winding by way of at least two electronic switches. On switching, both switches are opened for one or more time intervals in order to avoid current peaks.
US08698418B2 Lamp assembly utilizing light emitting diodes including hybrid current regulator system
A lamp assembly is provided. The lamp assembly has a housing that functions as a heat sink for the dissipation of heat therefrom. A plurality of light emitting diodes are also present and are configured to be driven by a current regulated by a linear current regulator and a switch mode current regulator. Thus, the amount of heat generated through driving the plurality of light emitting diodes is decreased such that the housing is optimally sized and still function as a heat sink.
US08698417B2 Lighting device
A lighting device includes first and second power source lines supplied with a driving current, first and second switching portions that respectively allow or prohibit supply of the driving current to the first and second power source lines, first and second current application lines respectively coupled with the first and second power source lines, first and second light-emitting element groups respectively disposed on the first and second current application lines, a driving portion coupled with the first and second current application lines and allowing flow of the driving current to the first and second current application lines, and a control portion that controls the first and second switching portions and the driving portion.
US08698415B2 Current supply for luminescent diodes
A regulation circuit is provided for making available a constant current supply on the basis of a transformer principle, in which there flows through the luminescent diodes a triangular a.c. current varying periodically around a d.c. current value. Circuitry is provided so that both the charging and the discharging current of an inductive reactance connected in series to the luminescent diodes, functioning as a storage choke for filtering of mains harmonics, flows as diode current through the luminescent diodes. An advantage of this method consists in a significant reduction of the overall power loss of the LED illumination module. According to one embodiment, the ceramic circuit board of the LED illumination module has a direct mains current supply, which, for protection from mechanical damage, is accommodated in a transparent housing having a highly transparent polymer mass serving as an optically active lens surface.
US08698411B2 Discharge lamp lighting apparatus
In a discharge lamp lighting apparatus comprising a short arc type discharge lamp and a power supply unit, a relation of the natural frequency fe (Hz) of the electrodes, the ripple frequency fd (Hz) of the alternating current that is supplied to the discharge lamp, and the ripple power Pr (W) of the alternating current, satisfies a formula: Pr ≤  f e - f d  · ( - 0.13 × Vh Va + 3.0 ) , wherein the volume of the electrode head portion is represented as Vh and the volume of the segment of the electrode axis portion that projects into the arc tube is represented as Va. When the alternating current supplied to the discharge lamp satisfies the formula, it is possible to prevent or control damage in the electrode axis portion, since vibration produced in the electrodes during lighting of the discharge lamp is small even if the discharge lamp is lighted for a long time.