Document Document Title
US08882294B2 Light emitting device package
The light emitting device package may include a light emitting device including at least one light emitting diode and a body including at least one lead frame on which a light emitting device is disposed, the body provided a first protrusion formed on a outside of the body, wherein the width of a lower surface of the first protrusion is 0.5 times to 0.9 times the width of a upper surface of the first protrusion.
US08882291B1 LED omni-strip lighting system
An LED-based lighting system is provided for aquariums, habitats, farms, terrariums, and/or enclosures for keeping animals and/or plant life and/or other enclosures. In one embodiment, the LED-based lighting system includes an LED circuit board or strip adapted to provide a particular wavelength of light, such as, red, blue, or green light. Several circuit boards or strips may be strung together end-to-end or side-to-side and, while each circuit board or strip may be adapted for providing a particular wavelength of light, the several circuit boards or strips may be adapted to provide several wavelengths of light, e.g. a mixture of spectrum. The several circuit boards, while providing different wavelengths of light, may be substantially the same in most respects except for the LED's positioned on the strip and a jumper selectively connected to provide a control signal line adapted for controlling the particular wavelength LED installed on the respective strip.
US08882290B2 Light-mixing type light-emitting apparatus
A light-mixing type light-emitting apparatus comprises a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) formed on a transparent carrier, wherein each of the LEDs with a transparent substrate emits light of a distinct color when driven, and the light beams generated from the LEDs are mixed to form a specific color. The transparent carrier setting forth in the present invention provides a mixing zone underlying the plurality of LEDs for the light beams to mix uniformly so as to improve the light-mixing efficiency of the light-emitting apparatus and shorten the mixing distance.
US08882289B2 Lighting device, lighting unit, and support
This aims to provide a support (10) comprising a bracket (7) attached to a predetermined structure, and a generally cylindrical holder (6) retained in the bracket (7). This bracket (7) has a receiving hole (112) for accommodating the holder (6). This holder (6) has a first rib (122) erected on a curved outer circumference, and an elastic portion (124) for giving the first rib (122) the degree of freedom for motions in the substantially radial direction. This also aims to provide a lighting unit (20) characterized by comprising a board (2), in which light emitting portions (23) having semiconductor light emitting devices are arrayed on the upper face side along the longitudinal direction, reflector members (3A and 3B) mounted on the side of the upper face of the board and having reflecting portions (34a and 34b) for covering the light emitting units and for reflecting the lights from the light emitting units, and a case member (4) disposed to support the board and the reflector members upward and downward.
US08882288B2 Purselight with EL and LED light sources
A purse illumination assembly including a power source, a light emitting portion, a voice-sensitive switch, and a circuit assembly connecting the light emitting portion to the power source through the voice-sensitive switch. The light emitting portion may be a light emitting fabric or may include EL wire alone or in combination with LED lights to provide both lighting and a decorative effect. A driver circuit may be included for driving both the EL wire and the LED lights.
US08882285B2 Illuminating safety glove
The present invention is a PVC or rubber illuminating safety glove utilized without a power source that includes a plurality of finger and thumb sections that accommodate a user's fingers and thumb and include a plurality of distal ends and a plurality of fingertips that are located on the distal ends of the finger and thumb sections and include a chemical compound that is safely embedded into the distal ends that become illuminated when exposed to an electromagnetic field. The embedded chemical compound is a plurality of microscopic polymer beads or a plurality of supermagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles that illuminate color instantly and reversibly when exposed to the electromagnetic field.
US08882283B2 LED Fresnel lighting system including active cooling
A lighting apparatus for film, television, video capture, motion picture and photography which includes a Fresnel lens fixed in a housing which contains a tight array of high power LEDs. The LED panel or board is mated to a heat dissipating apparatus to provide active cooling and together forming an LED engine. The LED engine is mounted to a slider allowing the LED engine to be adjusted within the housing with respect to the lens. Light shaping diffusion may be included on the housing. A power supply unit may also be included in the housing. When in electrical communication, the LED engine and power supply unit function as an integrated self-contained lighting apparatus. Optionally, the power supply may have an integrated dimmer switch, and may be capable of receiving PFC power or have an integrated battery unit.
US08882282B2 Method of manufacturing optical part and optical part, and method of manufacturing display and display
In one embodiment, a light-emitting device includes an optical part which is configured to prevent the formation of a residual film and to enhance light extraction efficiency. In one embodiment, an optical part as a reflective plate is arranged on a light extraction side of a light-emitting panel. In one embodiment, a plurality of optical function elements are formed independently of one another on a base of the optical part. In one embodiment, a residual film which is an optically unnecessary part between the base and the plurality of optical function elements is eliminated to prevent unnecessary light guiding, reflection or the like to the residual film. In one embodiment, in a light-emitting device including the optical part, stray light due to unnecessary light guiding or reflection to the residual film is reduced, and an improvement in light extraction efficiency achievable.
US08882280B2 Optical substrate
An optical substrate such as a cover glass which effects only a small change in a reflected color dependent on an incident angle, or more particularly, an optical substrate such as a cover glass for displays includes a reinforcement layer intended to prevent cracking, an antiglare layer formed on the reinforcement layer, a tone-adjustment antireflection film formed on the antiglare layer, and an antifouling layer formed on the antireflection film intended to minimize fingerprint adhesion. The antireflection film includes at least nine layers.
US08882273B2 Neurochromatic prescription determination
A method for determining a lens prescription for the eye. The method includes selecting a first ultraviolet (UV) trial lens and a second UV trial lens and determining whether the first UV trial lens or the second UV trial lens results in greater improvement in visual function. The second UV trial lens may be selected for the prescription when the second UV trial lens results in greater improvement in visual function as compared to the first UV trial lens. The method includes selecting a first color group comprising a first color trial lens and a second color trial lens and determining whether the first color trial lens or the second color trial lens results in greater improvement in visual function. The second color trial lens may be selected for the prescription when the second color trial lens results in greater improvement in visual function than the first color trial lens.
US08882272B2 Method and apparatus for imaging the choroid
A method and apparatus for imaging the choroid. The method comprises indirectly illuminating the choroid of an eye using incident light having a wavelength spectrum in the near-infrared region; and collecting the light passing out through the choroid and the pupil of the eye using an image sensor to obtain an image of the choroid.
US08882264B2 Simultaneous vision lenses, design strategies, apparatuses, methods, and systems
Certain exemplary embodiments include methods of determining ophthalmic prescriptions to ameliorate presbyopia. Certain exemplary embodiments provide an ophthalmic lens having spherical aberration of the same sign as the patient's eye and of a magnitude effective to substantially provide a desired net spherical aberration for an optical system including the patient's eye and the ophthalmic lens where the desired net spherical aberration provides a desired increase in near vision. Certain exemplary embodiments include contact lenses, intraocular lenses, corneal onlays, corneal inlays, or corneal surgeries providing spherical aberration of the same sign as the patient's eye and of a magnitude effective to substantially provide a desired net spherical aberration for an optical system including the patient's eye and the ophthalmic lens where the desired net spherical aberration provides a desired increase in near distance vision.
US08882256B2 Low molecular weight amide gellants and methods for making the same
Disclosed herein are curable solid inks which are solid at room temperature and molten at an elevated temperature at which the molten ink is applied to a substrate. In particular, the curable solid inks of the present embodiments comprise low molecular weight amide gellants that impart self-leveling capabilities to the inks. Also disclosed herein are methods for making the amide gellant and the inks comprising the amide gellants.
US08882255B2 Ink jet ink and ink jet recording method
The invention provides an ink jet ink including a coloring material, a polymer particle, a crosslinking agent and an aqueous medium. The polymer particle has a unit derived from a compound represented by the following general formula (1) and a glass transition temperature of 25° C. or less. The crosslinking agent has a functional group capable of forming a crosslinked structure with a ketone group derived from the compound represented by the general formula (1) by a dehydration reaction. The mass ratio of a content (% by mass) of the coloring material based on the total mass of the ink to a content (% by mass) of the polymer particle based on the total mass of the ink is 0.2 times or more and 2.5 times or less.
US08882254B2 Systems and methods for delivering and recirculating fluids
Among other things, a device for use in printing is described. The device comprises a first chamber for receiving a liquid and a first filter member in the first chamber. The first filter member separates the first chamber into a first part and a second part laterally adjacent to the first part. The first filter member comprises pores having an average size. The pores are configured to filter the liquid passing from the first part to the second part. The first filter member further comprises an opening adjacent to a top of the first chamber for air to pass from the first part to the second part. The opening has a size at least 10 times larger than the average size of the pores. There is a first inlet in fluid communication with the first part and a first outlet in fluid communication with the second part.
US08882249B2 Attachment, liquid container, and liquid supply apparatus
An attachment is mounted on a cartridge holder of a printer as a replacement of an ink cartridge. An ink outlet member having a link passage is separably secured to an attachment body. Ink is supplied from the exterior to the ink outlet member through an ink supply tube. When the attachment is mounted on the cartridge holder, a downstream end of the ink outlet member is positioned with respect to and connected to an ink supply needle of the printer. Accordingly, the attachment is easily and quickly installed in a liquid ejection apparatus. This reduces costs and makes it easy to use the attachment.
US08882247B2 Fluid distribution system having multi-path valve for gas venting
A fluid distribution system for a printhead, the system having a fluid container fluidically interconnected with the printhead via a closed fluid flow loop, a gas vent on the closed loop and a multi-path valve on the closed loop for selectively allowing venting of gas in the closed loop via the gas vent.
US08882241B2 Liquid-jet head and liquid-jet head device
A liquid-jet head includes nozzles, pressurized chambers to communicate with the nozzles, a common liquid chamber to communicate with each of the pressurized chambers, each of the common liquid chamber and the pressurized liquid chambers having a negative pressure of a predetermined value, first communicating paths to communicate between the common liquid chamber and the pressurized liquid chamber to serve as a filter to prevent air bubbles from intruding into the pressurized liquid chamber, the filter having openings, each opening having an opening area smaller than an opening area of each of the nozzles, and an air bubble discharge chamber including a second communicating path to communicate with the common liquid chamber having an air bubble remaining part in a region downstream in a liquid flow direction, and an opening part from which the air bubbles having entered via the second communicating path are discharged during a maintenance-restoration operation.
US08882235B2 Image recording apparatuses
An image recording apparatus includes a liquid applying mechanism that applies a first liquid onto a recording medium, a liquid discharge head that discharges a second liquid onto the recording medium, a wiper that wipes a liquid discharge surface of the liquid discharge head, and a processor. The processor counts a number of jams of the recording medium and a number of passages of the recording medium through the liquid discharge head. The processor increments the number of jams when the number of passages is equal to or greater than a first threshold value. The image recording apparatus performs a head recovery operation when a jam of a recording medium occurs and when the number of jams is incremented.
US08882233B2 Inkjet printer with carriage-coupled media detector
An inkjet printer having a print region, the inkjet printer includes an inkjet printhead; a media advance system for advancing recording medium through the printing region; a carriage for moving the printhead back and forth in a carriage scan direction across the print region, the carriage including a first magnetic element; and a platform that is movable along the carriage scan direction, the platform including: an optical sensor for receiving light from the recording medium to determine a type of recording medium; and a second magnetic element for selectively coupling to the first magnetic element.
US08882226B2 Focus-activated acoustic ejection
To ejecting a droplet from a reservoir, the reservoir holding a fluid is moved with respect to an acoustic ejector. As the reservoir and ejector move closer together, the acoustic ejector sends one or more interrogation pulses towards the reservoir. Based on the interrogation pulses, the system determines when the movement of the reservoir has placed a free surface of the fluid in a position where a droplet can be ejected.
US08882218B2 Printhead color density correction in printing systems
A method for color density correction in a printing system that includes a linehead, with one or more printheads, that jets ink onto a moving print media and an integrated imaging system that captures images of content printed on the moving print media is provided. One or more pixel data values and a measured density value trace for a printed test block are produced by scanning the test block and averaging pixel data in a print media transport direction. A color and a density of the ink in the printed test block are determined using the pixel data values. The measured density value trace is compared with a respective reference density value. It is determined whether there is a difference between the measured density value trace and a reference density value is determined. If there is a difference, ink laydown for the printhead is adjusted based on the difference.
US08882213B2 Fluid ejection systems and methods thereof
Fluid ejection systems and methods thereof are disclosed in the present disclosure. The method includes establishing fluid communication between an ejection chamber and a fluid supply chamber of the fluid ejection system such that the ejection chamber includes a nozzle and an ejection member to selectively eject the fluid through the nozzle. The method also includes detecting at feast one impedance in the fluid by a sensor unit haying a sensor plate, and identifying the characteristic of the fluid by a fluid identification module based on the at least one detected impedance value to obtain an identified fluid characteristic.
US08882208B1 Lubrication system
A cylindrical rotatable hub has interior and exterior cylindrical surfaces, an exterior end, a central extent, and an interior end. A fixedly positioned generally cylindrical spindle has an outer end and an enlarged annular inner end with a central extent axially between the outer and inner ends. Tapered inner and outer wheel bearings operatively couple the hub exteriorly and the spindle interiorly adjacent to the interior and exterior ends of the hub. The inner and outer wheel bearings are adapted to allow rotation of the hub with respect to the spindle. Lubricant input and output passageways extend through the inner end of the spindle.
US08882203B2 Locking connection member of covering material and method of manufacturing covered cushion formed body
An engaging member for attaching an upholstery material to a cushion member, which has a positioning member at least one lengthwise terminal end. The positioning member places the starting end of loop engaging element portion in precise position in the groove of the cushion member. The engaging member is long and flexible and bends in conformity with the complicated shape of the curved groove. The method of producing an upholstered cushion molding using the engaging member improves the working efficiency.
US08882200B2 Seat assembly having a soft latch mechanism
A seat assembly having a soft latch mechanism. The soft latch mechanism includes a spring arm disposed on a bracket and a housing disposed on a seat back frame. The housing engages an end portion of the spring arm when the seat back frame is in a folded position to inhibit movement of the seat back frame away from the seat bottom frame.
US08882196B2 Child safety seat
A child seat can comprise a seat shell having two protruding rails extending at an underside of the seat shell, at least four latches disposed in two symmetric pairs adjacent to the two rails, wherein the latches are operable to lock the child seat with a base, and a release mechanism operable to drive the latches to unlock from the base.
US08882193B2 Head rest for a vehicle
A head rest for a vehicle seat includes: at least one first section that is oriented towards the head of the seat occupant, a second section, and a third section, wherein the second section is arranged essentially between the first and third sections. In the event of an accident, the first section can be displaced in the direction of displacement, due to the effect of a relative displacement of the second section from a working position into a safety position in the direction of the head of the seat occupant. The relative movement of the sections is a rotation about an essentially parallel rotational axis in the direction of displacement. A mounting of the first section in relation to the second section is provided during the relative displacement about the rotational axis. The first section comprises a first bearing surface and the second section comprises a second bearing surface.
US08882189B2 Folding furniture
A folding chair includes a frame, a seat bottom coupled to the frame, and legs for supporting the seat bottom in a horizontal position relative to the frame. The frame is formed to include a seat back.
US08882181B2 Crash structure having adjustable rigidity for a deformation element for a vehicle
The invention relates to a crash structure having adjustable rigidity for a deformation element for a vehicle, wherein the crash structure comprises a continuously adjustable rigidity, in that at least one blocking element (SR) moves in a plane rotated by an angle relative to the vehicle longitudinal axis with respect to a profile (MW), so that the rigidity is adjusted by a position of the at least one blocking element reached by the motion.
US08882178B2 Body for dump truck
A body for a dump truck includes a body frame, a bottom wall, front wall, and left and right side walls arranged on the body frame. The body also includes an earth/sand anti-sticking device and a steel member arranged outside and opposite the earth/sand anti-sticking device such that a space is formed between the steel member and the earth/sand anti-sticking device. The body is provided with at least one steel rib arranged in the space, fixedly secured to the steel member to reinforce the steel member, and arranged extending upright toward the earth/sand anti-sticking device. The steel member is any one of the bottom wall, front wall, and left and right walls, and the steel rib is shaped to divide the space.
US08882176B2 Active aero diffuser
A vehicle includes a vehicle body having a first body end configured to face oncoming ambient airflow when the vehicle is in motion relative to a road surface, and also having a second body end opposite of the first body end. The vehicle also includes an underbody portion configured to span a distance between the first and second body ends and define a space between the vehicle body and the road surface. The vehicle additionally includes an active diffuser assembly disposed at the second end and configured to control the airflow past the underbody portion through the space between the vehicle body and the road surface and out to the ambient. The active diffuser assembly includes a panel configured to selectively extend into and retract from the ambient airflow aft of the second end. The active diffuser assembly also includes a first device configured to extend the panel.
US08882175B2 Vehicle, a door assembly for the vehicle and a method of assembling the door assembly
A vehicle, a door assembly for the vehicle and a method of assembling the door assembly are disclosed. A first component includes a first alignment member and a second component is attached to the first component. The second component includes first and second ends spaced along a first axis, and includes first and second side edges spaced along a second axis transverse to the first axis. A trim strip extending to a distal edge, with the second component coupled to the trim strip. A second alignment member attached to the trim strip, with the alignment members engaging each other to attach the trim strip to the first component and orientate the distal edge of the trim strip relative to the first axis such that the distal edge of the trim strip and one of the side edges of the second component substantially align with each other along the first axis.
US08882172B2 Tensioning bow assembly for a flexible cover system
A cover system for covering an open top of a container includes a flexible cover, a bail member, a bow member, and a tension element. The cover has a first end connected to the container and is sized to cover the open top when a second end is in an extended position. The bail member has an end pivotally connected to the container and an end connected to the second end of the cover. The bail member pivots to deploy the cover into the extended position. The bow member includes an end pivotally connected to the bail member and an end configured to bear against the cover between the ends of the cover. The tension element is connected between the container and the bow member. The tension element applies a force to the bow member to apply a force against the cover.
US08882166B2 Motorized extension pole
A motorized extension pole including a first hollow pole member having a second hollow pole member telescopically mounted in the first pole member. The second pole member is selectively moved between extended and retracted positions with respect to the first pole member by a battery powered drive motor.
US08882165B2 Gripping and releasing apparatus and method
A passive universal gripper includes a mass of granular material encased in an elastic membrane. Using a combination of positive and negative pressure, the gripper can rapidly grip and release a wide range of objects that are typically challenging for conventional universal grippers, such as flat objects, soft objects, or objects with complex geometries. The gripper passively conforms to the shape of a target object, then vacuum-hardens to grip it rigidly; later using positive pressure to reverse this transition—releasing the object and returning to a deformable state. The apparatus and method enable the fast ejection of objects from the gripper, as well as essentially instantaneous reset time between releasing and gripping.
US08882158B2 Hybrid redundant seal for refrigerant systems
A connection system for carrying a refrigerant may provide a hybrid redundancy in sealing a refrigerant flow from the surround system environment. The connection system may include a first sealing ring of a first type and a second sealing ring of a second type positioned downstream from the first sealing ring. In some embodiments, the first sealing ring may be in a groove positioned around the outside diameter of a male fitting. The second sealing ring may be positioned at an interface between the male fitting and a female fitting. In some embodiments, flanges of each fitting define the interface so that the second sealing ring may be positioned between the flanges of each fitting. The second sealing ring may be selected from a material that has a wider range of operating temperature than the first sealing ring so that in the event of failure in the first sealing ring, the second sealing ring may prevent leakage.
US08882151B2 Filling device
The invention relates to a filling device, in particular for filling a tank with a urea solution, comprising: at least one vehicle-specific pipe element, one standardized filler neck, and one holder, wherein the holder is fixed to said vehicle-specific pipe element via a joining method, particularly a welding method, used for the vehicle-specific pipe element, either in axial and/or in radial and/or in circumferential direction of said vehicle-specific pipe element.
US08882146B2 Column unit for an electric power steering apparatus
Provided is an electric power steering apparatus that is both lightweight and rigid. A lightweight electric power steering apparatus is achieved wherein a gear housing 45 that houses an electric assist mechanism, a lower support bracket 54 for fastening the gear housing 45 to the vehicle body, a sensor housing 56 that houses a torque sensor 57, an outer column 30 of a steering column 6c, and an upper support bracket 59a for fastening the middle section of the outer column 3 to the vehicle body are all integrally formed of synthetic resin with glass fibers, improving the strength of the joined sections of these members.
US08882142B2 Capacitive occupant detection system
A capacitive occupant detection system comprises at least one sensing electrode to be arranged on the bottom side of a seat cushion, a seat heater like structure to be arranged on a top side of said seat cushion, and an evaluation unit operatively coupled to said at least one sensing electrode for determining a value representative of the capacitance between the at least one sensing electrode and the seat heater like structure.
US08882137B2 Airbag, in particular for a motor vehicle
An airbag for a motor vehicle includes a support structure moveable from a stowage position into a restraint position and a covering that surrounds a restraint volume of the airbag formed by the support structure in its restraint position. The covering is an element that is separate from the support structure and joined to the support structure.
US08882135B1 Ball cart structure
A ball cart structure essentially includes a frame for positioning a bag and positioning units disposed on the frame. The positioning units position and restrict deformation of the frame when the frame is unfolded to be in use or is folded to be stored, to enhance the stability and user safety of the frame in use and render it convenient to store the frame.
US08882131B2 Double articulated haulage truck
A double articulated truck has a front vehicle module with a drive engine and having at least one wheeled axle driven by the drive engine through a transmission and having a load-bearing bin, the front vehicle module being interconnected in an articulated manner about a first vertical pin to the front of the load-bearing bin. A rear vehicle module is interconnected in an articulated manner about a second vertical pin to the rear of the load-bearing bin, the rear vehicle module having at least one wheeled axle whereby the bin is supported by the front and rear vehicle modules. The rear module only articulates about the second vertical pin when the articulation of the front module to the bin exceeds 30 degrees and then in a synchronous manner. Typically the maximum articulation of the front module is around 42 degrees and the rear module some 13 degrees.
US08882126B2 Bicycle frame with internal strut
A bicycle including a front wheel, a rear wheel, and a bicycle frame assembly supported on the front and rear wheels. The bicycle frame assembly includes a front fork supported by the front wheel, and a main frame that has a head tube and a down tube extending rearward and downwardly relative to the head tube. The down tube has a front wall, a rear wall, and an internal strut connecting the front wall and the rear wall.
US08882111B2 Bulk amusement game ticket distribution system
The present invention is a prize distribution system for an amusement game that can deliver to a player a brick of tickets in bulk form, or deliver a prize that is shaped like a brick, in a reliable manner that is theft resistant and requires no human interaction to participate. The invention uses a conveyor belt and motor to extract a prize from a stacked or secured configuration, and move the prize to a bin accessible to the player. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes a second motor and door system that opens and closes access to the bin, preventing a would-be thief from reaching through the bin to the prize stack in an attempt to remove a prize.
US08882110B2 Shuffle board game
A shuffle board game system including a shuffle board game apparatus and a method of playing a game such as shuffle board. The board game includes a base, a pair of side walls, an end wall and an intermediate wall each connecting the side walls and defining therebetween a goal region, a plurality of dividing walls each extending between the end wall and the intermediate wall, a plurality of openings formed in the dividing wall, and a removable cover selectively connectable to the side walls to selectively enclose the goal region. The method of playing a game is applied to game with a plurality of playing pieces launched by a player at a plurality of goals. The method includes the steps of launching playing pieces towards a goal region; re-launching each playing piece that is not in the goal region if all goals contain at least one playing piece; scoring a point for each playing piece not in the goal region; and adding a penalty to the point score if there is any goal which does not contain a playing piece.
US08882106B2 Post-processing apparatus having sheet alignment function and method of controlling the same
A post-processing apparatus which enable reduction of shift alignment time and improvement of productivity. A shift unit performs a shifting operation for shifting a conveyed sheet, in a lateral direction orthogonal to a sheet conveying direction. An alignment unit aligns the sheet by a pair of alignment members thereof which are moved toward each other such side edges of the sheet in the lateral direction are held therebetween. A CPU of a finisher controller controls the alignment unit and the shift unit such that an operation for moving the alignment members from respective first standby positions in the lateral direction to respective second standby positions closer to the sheet than the corresponding first standby positions is executed in parallel with the shifting operation by the shift unit.
US08882105B2 Sheet stacking apparatus and image forming apparatus
Provided is a sheet stacking apparatus including a discharge roller pair, a stacking tray, a tray drive motor, a sheet surface detecting sensor detecting a position of a topmost sheet on the stacking tray, an alignment portion including front and rear alignment members which are provided above the stacking tray and sandwiching a sheet to align, and a finisher control portion executing: raising/lowering control for raising and lowering the stacking tray so that the topmost sheet is located at a predetermined height in accordance with a detection result obtained from the sheet surface detecting sensor; alignment control for aligning the sheet when the sheet is discharged; and alignment stop control for stopping the alignment of the alignment portion in the case that a movement amount of the stacking tray, at the time when the stacking tray moves in accordance with the detection result, exceeds a predetermined movement amount.
US08882096B2 Perforated support plate
To provide a perforated support plate with high rigidity, the perforated support plate for supporting a surface of a wafer by interposing an adhesive layer comprises a reinforcing part for deflection prevention.
US08882092B2 Mount bushing of stabilizer bar for vehicle
A mount bushing assembly of a stabilizer bar for a vehicle, may include an inner bushing including a rubber member having a tubular shape and coupled to an external circumference of the stabilizer bar, and a pipe enclosing an external circumference of the rubber member, a sliding bearing including a pair of bearings coupled to upper and lower portions of an external circumference of the inner bushing, and a bracket including upper and lower brackets that may be coupled each other, and integrally formed at an interior surface thereof with an upper outer bushing and a lower outer bushing respectively, wherein the bracket may be fixed to a vehicle body in a state of enclosing the sliding bearing.
US08882090B2 Fluid-filled type vibration damping device
A fluid-filled type vibration damping device including a partition member having a housing space, and a movable plate housed within the housing space so that displacement thereof is limited by abutment against inside wall faces of the housing space. Abutted sloping faces are defined by outside peripheral portions of the inside wall faces of the housing space situated in opposition in an axial direction while sloping axially outside going towards an inner peripheral side. An outside peripheral abutting portion formed of a rubber elastic body is provided to an outside peripheral portion of the movable plate, and abutting sloping faces are defined by opposite faces of the outside peripheral abutting portion that slope axially outside going towards the inner peripheral side. The abutted sloping faces and the abutting sloping faces have different slope angles so as to slope relative to each other.
US08882084B2 Variable carbonation using in-line carbonator
An inline carbonation apparatus includes a fluid tube having an inner diameter. At least one water orifice is linked to a water source and is attached at one end of the fluid tube. The water orifice atomizes water passing therethrough. A carbon dioxide source is connected to a carbon dioxide solenoid valve. The carbon dioxide solenoid valve is connected to a carbon dioxide regulator that is coupled to a carbon dioxide orifice and attached to the fluid tube in a spaced relationship from the water orifice. The atomized water has a pressure less than the carbon dioxide such that carbon dioxide is absorbed into the water forming carbonated water having a specified volume of carbonation. The carbon dioxide solenoid valve is opened and closed for a predetermined portion of a drink dispense time providing a volume of carbonated and non-carbonated fluid which upon mixing achieves a desired carbonation level.
US08882083B2 Guardrail
A guardrail for protecting persons against accidentally falling out of open floors. The guardrail has a number of constructional elements and connectors for assembling a coherent guardrail. The connectors include at least one first connector which has a longitudinal shape and is formed with at least one longitudinal extending slot, and at least one second connector having a first connector part to be connected to the at least one constructional element and a second connector part to connect the first connector part to the at least one first connector while engaging the at least one longitudinal extending slot of that connector. The guardrail has a stable, inexpensive and simple structure which quickly and easily can be assembled to a coherent guardrail and be disassembled. The guardrail can be fitted too to the width and height required of the guardrail for a specific opening of a given open floor.
US08882081B2 Line guiding structure
A line guiding structure comprises a round guiding shaft, a fixing unit, an elastic element, a linear bearing and a wheel set. The round guiding shaft comprises a fixing and an open end. The fixing unit is used for fixing the round guiding shaft and comprises a fixing base and a bearing. The fixing base is disposed on mechanical equipment, and the bearing is disposed in the fixing base. The elastic element is sleeved on the round guiding shaft and comprises a first end and a second end. The linear bearing is sleeved on the round guiding shaft. A connecting piece is disposed on the linear bearing. The wheel set comprises a fixing plate, a supporting frame and two pulleys. The fixing plate is connected on the connecting piece. A slide hole is formed between two opposite pulley surfaces of the two pulleys for a line to pass through.
US08882079B2 Electromagnetic actuator
A stator is provided with a ring-shaped outer stator-projection and a ring-shaped inner stator-projection. A plunger is provided with a ring-shaped outer plunger-projection and a ring-shaped inner plunger-projection. A magnetic force is generated at three portions between the plunger and the stator. The inner stator-projection has a first tapered surface and the outer plunger-projection has a second tapered surface. The first tapered surface and the second tapered surface confront each other when the plunger moves toward the stator.
US08882078B2 Flow rate control valve and assembly method therefor
A flow rate control valve, which is capable of controlling the flow rate of a fluid that flows between a pair of ports by displacing a rod, includes a valve mechanism in an axial direction. The valve mechanism includes a body having the ports and a pair of fluid passages through which fluid supplied from the ports flows. The valve mechanism includes a sub-body disposed in an interior of the body, and in which the rod is screw-engaged in an advancing and retracting manner. The valve mechanism also includes a tubular shaped seat connected to an end of the sub-body, including a seat structure to seat the rod thereon, and a hole that communicates between one of the fluid passages and another of the fluid passages.
US08882069B2 Securing apparatus for portable electronic devices
An apparatus for securing an electronic device includes a main body with two ends. An arm is provided at one end of the main body, and has a hook attached thereto, shaped for the electronic device to be placed between the hook and the arm. An additional arm is slidably attached to the other end of the main body, and is capable of being slid by a user to several lateral positions relative to the main body. An additional hook is provided on the slidable arm, and is shaped for the electronic device to be placed between the hook and the arm. A locking system is provided to lock and unlock the slidable arm to at least one of the lateral positions. A base section is capable of being secured at or near a location. The main body is adjustably attached to the base section.
US08882066B2 Buoyant clamp for tubular members
Various clamps for connecting one tubular member to another, methods of using and making such clamps are disclosed. In one aspect a clamp for coupling a first tubular member to a second tubular member is provided. The clamp includes a first clamp half and a second clamp half engageable with the first clamp half. The first and second clamp halves define a first through bore to accommodate the first tubular member and a second through bore to accommodate the second tubular member. A strap is adapted to circumscribe at least a portion of and bring into engagement the first and second clamp halves. The clamp is buoyant in water.
US08882063B2 Snowmobile mechanic stand
A snowmobile maintenance device including a pair of stands to secure the rear and middle portion of a snowmobile allowing a snowmobile to be tipped onto its edge for repair. The device includes a first stand and second stand. The first stand securely attaches to the snowmobile bumper and extends a length perpendicular to the length of the snowmobile. A second stand is attached to the steering post of the snowmobile parallel to and oriented to the first stand. The stands are adjustable in length and include a base allowing the snowmobile to be easily tipped onto its side and supported by the stands and its existing skis.
US08882060B2 Garbage bag retention ring
An apparatus for retaining the opening of a garbage bag is provided. A garbage bag retention ring can include a flexible and invertible base ring and a flexible and invertible retention ring fixed to the base ring. The base ring and the retention ring can each have about the same diameter. The base ring and the retention ring invert to expose an interior surface of the retention ring as an exterior surface. The garbage bag retention ring can further include at least one aperture formed between a junction of the base ring and the retention ring that is adapted to receive an edge of a circumferential portion of a garbage bag.
US08882056B2 Top beam clamp
A pipe hanger clamp, formed by bending a flat section of metal bar or plate, has two vertical side members which have been cut so their side view is a “C” shape. The lower arms of these two side members are joined by a horizontally extended end wall, about which the side members are bent. Holes in the end wall receive a mounting set screw into a captured nut and another nut to hold a pipe hanger rod for supporting a pipe. An overhead support is clamped between the set screw and the upper arms of the C-shaped side members, such that the load applied to the rod is generally edgewise to the plate thickness, and does not provide an unbending force on the clamp.
US08882052B2 Multi-joint cable protection and guide device
There is provided a multi-joint cable protection and guide device that fits well with a flexible belt member in a flexed posture, that steadily protects and smoothly guides cables that assume the flexed posture, that requires fewer parts and that may be readily connected and disconnected corresponding as desired according to usage. The multi-joint supporting member has the flexible belt member in which cable inserting tubular portions are unitarily molded in parallel and a train comprising a plurality of block bodies flexibly connected with each other by concave-convex snap-fittings. The train of block bodies is inserted through the cable inserting tubular portions to control and support straight and flexed postures of the flexible belt member and each block body has a flexion outer peripheral-side curved surface whose curvature is equal to a radius of a flexed circular arc in the flexed posture.
US08882048B2 In-space processing and delivery system
A processing and delivery system is in space around a celestial body having a magnetic field. The system includes at least one facility having supplies and configured for in-space recycling and manufacturing to produce processed objects utilizing space debris objects and the supplies. The system includes at least one space vehicle configured to deliver the space debris objects from their orbits to the at least one facility using electrodynamic propulsion. The system includes at least one space vehicle configured to deliver new supplies to the at least one facility from other orbits using electrodynamic propulsion. The system includes at least one space vehicle configured to deliver the processed objects from the at least one facility to their destination orbits using electrodynamic propulsion.
US08882047B2 Method and system for delivering cargoes into space
A method and respective system for delivering cargoes into space by means of preliminary launching cargoes and then capturing cargoes by at least one container spacecraft, accumulating and further transferring to other spacecrafts, wherein the container spacecraft is designed for capturing cargoes as separate portions in the form of a cloud or stream as well as for use of a propulsion system to compensate for container spacecraft speed losses caused by the cargo capture and an aerodynamic drag, wherein the propulsion system being a reactive type with consumption of a part of the incoming cargoes as a working substance.
US08882045B2 Covering device and aircraft area comprising a covering device
A covering device includes a sealing element and a rib structure which is disposed on a surface of the sealing element. The rib structure includes a plurality of ribs which extend parallel to the surface of the sealing element, wherein the bendability of the ribs parallel to the surface of the sealing element is high, and perpendicular to the surface of the sealing element is low.
US08882038B2 Sealing device between a cross member and insulation blanket provided at an aircraft fuselage
An insulation blanket to be connected at the inside surface (16) of an aircraft fuselage, includes at least one opening that allows a through element (20) to pass, at which is connected a sealing device, characterized in that this sealing device includes a core (28) that is combined with a body (30) that extends over a closed contour delimiting the opening (26), with the core (28) having a spring action that tends to flatten the body (30) against the through element (20) over at least a part of the circumference of the opening (26).
US08882034B2 Aircraft seat
The seats are swivellable about axes (1) and arranged with their axes in column axes (2). The seats each have a direction (4) extending from the middle of the seat back through the middle of the seat cushion (22), intersecting the seat's swivel axis. Extending equally on either side of the seat direction is defined a seat projection (5) forwards of the seat cushion and having the same width as the seat cushion. The swivel is set up to allow the seat to be turned through 6 from 17.5 to the longitudinal axis of the column (and the aircraft to be equipped with the seats) to 23.5. At 17.5, as in column IV, the seats partially face the seats in front in the column. This is the maximum angle at which the regulatory authorities will allow a lap belt only to be worn by a passenger for TTL. When the seats are swivelled outwards to 23.5, they face the space (6) along side the seat in front and can be converted to bed mode.
US08882028B2 Aircraft emergency and backup secondary power apparatus
In combination, an aircraft and a rotatively combined electrical power/generator and hydraulic motor/pump configured to provide either hydraulic power from electrical power, or electrical power from hydraulic power, installed in said aircraft.
US08882008B1 Dual shredding system for a mobile document shredding vehicle and method of use
A dual shredding system for a mobile document shredding vehicle produces either coarsely shredded material or finely shredded material. Unshredded material is first coarsely shredded by a coarse shredder. In a coarse shred mode, the coarsely shredded material is routed to a shredded material storage compartment in the vehicle. In a fine shred mode, the coarsely shredded material is finely shredded by a fine shredder, and then routed to the storage compartment. The position of a gate determines whether the system is in the coarse or fine shred mode.
US08882003B2 Fuel injector
A fuel injector has a swirl generator located downstream from a valve seat. A fuel injection hole is connected to a downstream side of the swirl generator. The swirl generator includes a swirl chamber having an involute or a spiral shape and the fuel injection hole bored at a bottom or the swirl chamber and a swirl generation use passage connected to the upstream side of the swirl chamber for introducing fuel into the swirl chamber. The bottom of the swirl chamber is provided with a step height so as to make a level difference in which the bottom of the swirl chamber is lower than a bottom of the swirl generation use passage, and the step height is formed at a position where fuel flowing into the swirl chamber from the swirl generation use passage meets fuel turning in the swirl chamber.
US08882000B2 Air brush
An embodiment of the present invention is an air brush including a housing, a head assembly, and a trigger assembly. The housing has a main body with an air valve, reservoir and a handle. The head assembly mounts to the main body with a nozzle, nozzle cap, and a needle cap. The trigger assembly fits within the housing and includes a needle engaging the head assembly, a needle chucking guide, a needle chucking nut, a lever assembly, a spring guide and a spring device. The lever assembly actuates the needle to release compressed air and contents of the reservoir. The spring device controls release of the contents relative to the air flow through the air valve and nozzle. The spring device includes a first spring, a second spring, and a ring member. The ring member is positioned between the springs, and the springs have different strengths.
US08881999B2 Fragrance diffusion system
A system for fragrancing air includes an adjustable fan that is used to generate an air flow to push atomized fragrance oil from an output orifice of the system. The fragrance in the air is generated from atomized fragrance oil, where liquid fragrance oil can be stored in a cartridge bottle assembly and then atomized with compressed air in a collector assembly in the system. When the system is mounted on a wall or ceiling, the adjustable fan can be used to direct the fragrance downward at any number of angles from the system. The system can be programmed to adjust a fan speed and various settings of the fragrance delivery.
US08881997B2 Nanoparticle aerosol generator
A nanoparticle aerosol generator, comprised of a vibrating fluidized bed with a baffle, a vibrating Venturi disperser and a cyclone separator. To generate nanoparticle aerosols, the nanoparticle aerosol generator uses the multiple impaction, vibrating air flow and vibrating high speed air flow to break up larger agglomerates, and multiple dilution to minimize the re-agglomeration of the particles.
US08881987B2 Data collection device having dynamic access to multiple wireless networks
There is set forth herein a method of providing network connectivity. The method can include introducing a new communication device within a communication range of a portable data collection device, the new communication device comprising a dynamic access module enabling the new communication device to receive data packets from the portable data collection device and route payload data of the data packets to an access point. In one aspect the new communication device can receive data packets from the portable data collection device and route payload data of the data packets to the access point if the new communication device determines that it is in range of both of said access point and the portable data collection device. There is set forth herein a system having a dynamic access module.
US08881985B2 Method for the concretizing of a substrate
In a method for concretizing a substrate with a code (1, 2) which is applied at least twice by a code reader, the codes (1, 2) are intended to be assigned or matched to one another, this being suitable for restoring an intact code (1, 2) from at least two codes (1, 2) which are not intact per se.
US08881981B2 Digital targeting scope apparatus
A digital targeting scope apparatus includes an image sensor and a lens for acquiring video images of objects at which the aiming device is aimed; an image processor; a tilt sensor; and a display component for displaying the video images captured by the image sensor, all mounted in a tubular housing. An interchangeable digital camera module is carried by the first end of the housing. A control/display module is removably fastened to the second end of the housing. The control/display module is electrically connected to the camera module through a connector on the sensor circuit board of the camera module when the control/display module is installed in the second end of the housing. The control portion includes a circuit board and a display component mounted thereon. The display portion houses an eyepiece lens assembly aligned with the display component.
US08881971B2 Transit agency as an issuer and/or program manager of prepaid products
Described is processing for requested user access, starting with receiving transaction data from a portable consumer device presented by the user at a gate access device of an access agency for the requested access. The transaction data from the gate access device is processed and a fee amount for the requested access is determined. The processing next involves determining an account balance in accordance with the determined fee amount and a prior balance amount associated with the portable consumer device, and reconciling the determined account balance and account data associated with the portable consumer device at a processing computer of the access agency such that the access request is indicated as either approved or declined.
US08881950B2 Multiple component dispensing cartridge, mixing nozzle and method for reducing contact between fluids
A fluid cartridge for mixing and dispensing first and second fluids includes a housing, a piston unit mounted in the housing, and a mixing nozzle. The mixing nozzle includes a first portion releasably attachable to a distal end of the housing and a second portion located distal to the first portion. An internal fluid passage communicates between the first and second portions. A static mixing element is located in the second portion and a distal dispensing opening communicates with the static mixing element. A tubular fluid separator element is located in the first portion and defines first and second flow passages. The first flow passage is a central passage and the second flow passage is radially outside of the first flow passage. The fluid separator element maintains the flow of the first fluid separate from the flow of the second fluid in the first portion of the mixing nozzle.
US08881949B2 Modular beverage dispenser having a build-in cold plate and carbonator
A modular beverage dispenser for engagement with bag-in-box or other source of pressurized concentrate and a pressurized ambient water source, such as city water, is provided. The dispenser has a housing having housing walls, the walls defining an interior space, the interior having interior walls defining a multiple of interior spaces. The housing engages either a flange (configured to engage a perimeter of a countertop drop-in cutout) or legs configured to depend downward from the housing to support the same above a support surface. An ice container is provided for receiving ice therein configured to engage the housing so as to be substantially within the interior space. A cold plate is provided with a multiplicity of cold plate contained fluid lines therein adapted to engage the ice container so as to be cooled by the contents thereof. A carbonator is located in a first interior space.
US08881946B2 Compact container having an airless pump
The present invention relates to a compact container having an airless pump, and more particularly, to a compact container for discharging cosmetic in preset amount when the pump is driven by pressing a button. The compact container having an airless pump, includes: a casing including an upper case and a lower case and accommodating cosmetics; a cylinder fixed to the inside of the lower case and having an annular outer wall downwardly extending from the rim, a depression formed at the center concentric with the outer wall, an opening formed at the lower side of the depression such that the opening communicates with the inner space of the outer wall; a plate upwardly spaced apart from the cylinder and having a discharging hole, formed at the center, through which the cosmetics is discharged, and a through-hole formed at a side thereof; an annular container piston elevating up and down along the inner circumference of the outer wall of the cylinder; an airless pump installed at the depression of the cylinder to discharge the cosmetics accommodated in the cylinder to the outside; and a button formed at the through-hole to operate the airless pump.
US08881944B2 Overcap for and a method of actuating a volatile material dispenser
An overcap for a volatile material dispenser includes a housing adapted to be mounted on a container. The container has a valve stem with a discharge end. The overcap includes a valve-connecting portion adapted to engage the valve stem and a fixture that extends from the valve-connecting portion. The overcap further includes a trigger attached to the housing by a hinge that is disposed at or below a plane formed by the fixture. A contact portion is disposed in the trigger for interacting with the fixture and applying pressure to the valve-connecting portion to actuate the valve stem.
US08881942B2 Two-shell and two-drawer containers
A package comprises a latch including first and second legs and an actuating portion. The first and second legs are joined at an angle. The actuator portion of the first leg is positioned to be displaced generally laterally to displace the second leg generally longitudinally to release the latch. In another embodiment the package has base wells on the inside surface. A generally flat marginal sealing surface encircles the first and second base wells. The wells of the base and/or lid are covered with a cover sheet to close them. Still another embodiment is a child-resistant container comprising a shell, two drawers, a stop, and a latch. The drawers are prevented from sliding apart past a limit of travel when one drawer is open sufficiently to provide access to its contents and the other drawer is not.
US08881924B2 Tanks for containing a fluid within a chamber
A tank for containing a fluid, such as fuel, oil or gas within a chamber. The walls of the chamber are partially defined by a rigid structure having an opening; and partially defined by an elastomeric diaphragm which is attached around its periphery to the rigid structure and covers the opening in the rigid structure. An attachment frame engages the diaphragm and the rigid structure, and extends around the periphery of the diaphragm. The attachment frame has a first portion which engages the diaphragm, and a second portion which is positioned outside an outer edge of the diaphragm and attached to the rigid structure.
US08881914B2 Blood processing filter and the method for manufacturing the same
This invention relates to a blood processing filter comprising a sheet-like filter element, an inlet-side flexible container and an outlet-side flexible container that sandwich the filter element and are sealed thereto, an inlet port provided in the inlet-side flexible container for accepting blood before being processed by the filter element, and an outlet port provided in the outlet-side flexible container for discharging blood after being processed by the filter element. The blood processing filter also includes a flow channel securing sheet arranged between the filter element and the outlet-side flexible container. A flow channel hole through which blood processed by the filter element passes is formed in the flow channel securing sheet. The outlet port is provided so as to be capable of communicating with the flow channel hole.
US08881906B2 Pod with guiding-locking piece therein
The present invention discloses a pod which includes a lower cover member, an upper cover member and a guiding locking piece. The guiding locking piece deployed on one side of the upper cover member of pod, the overall structure of which is formed by a flat base linking to a first slope that links to a second slope, two openings deployed on two side areas of the overall structure, and an upper locking piece and a lower locking piece deployed in each of two openings. When the mask is placed into the lower cover member of pod and is covered by the upper cover member, the mask is pushed to certain position and supported and locked by the upper locking piece and the lower locking piece.
US08881903B2 Container with labeling device
A container including one or more labeling devices that can be detached from the container. Preferably the container can hold a plurality of different articles and includes a plurality of labeling devices for identifying the different articles. After the articles are removed from the container, the articles may be identified by the labeling devices by detaching the labeling devices and attaching or placing the labeling device on or near its corresponding article. Preferred labeling devices include one or more labeling areas that provide information regarding an article.
US08881896B2 Container
A container for holding unused and used snus is disclosed. The container comprises a base defining a first compartment to receive unused snus. The base has a bottom wall which is reconfigurable to form a second compartment for holding used snus on the other side of said bottom wall. The first and second compartments are each provided with a separate cover.
US08881895B2 Apparatus and method for distributing samples
An apparatus and method for distributing samples is provided. The distribution apparatus and method includes a sample package made up of a sample product to be distributed and a sample backing, which is attached to a sample carrier. This sample distribution method has many unique advantages, including promoting a sample product that consumers can actually, see, feel, touch, taste and smell.
US08881894B2 Multiple-compartment applicator
A multiple-compartment ascorbic acid delivery unit is provided. The first compartment is impermeable to oxygen and ultraviolet light and contains a solid vitamin-containing composition comprising ascorbic acid or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts and esters. The second compartment is liquid impermeable and contains a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier system. The first compartment is entirely enclosed within said second compartment or vice versa. An opening is formed in the inner compartment in order to combine the contents of the two compartments to form an ascorbic acid carrier composition prior to delivery to the patient.
US08881892B1 Container
The present disclosure provides an apparatus including a first chamber containing an eye-mountable device. The apparatus may also include a second chamber containing an aqueous solution. The apparatus may also include a membrane positioned between the first chamber and the second chamber. The membrane may be configured to rupture based on application of a force to the apparatus. The ruptured membrane may allow the aqueous solution to engage with the eye-mountable device. The apparatus may also include a lid to seal one or more of the first chamber and the second chamber.
US08881886B2 Coin acceptor with anti-fraud feature
A method and apparatus for preventing the fraudulent receipt of credit for the goods or services provided by a coin-operated device is disclosed. A coin acceptor with an anti-fraud feature comprises a coin-accept channel comprising a lip to block the introduction of a non-coin object to a coin sensor and a coin-guiding surface to guide a coin downstream the lip to the coin sensor. The coin-accept channel may further comprise a blocking area, a deflection surface, and a protrusion to prevent the upstream movement of a tethered coin-like object, thereby preventing a single tethered coin-like object from receiving multiple credits for the goods or services provided by a coin-operated device.
US08881883B2 Park lock for narrow transmission
A park lock of a transmission, including a park gear; a park pawl rotating about a pawl shaft, the park pawl having a pawl portion locking the park gear, the park pawl including a cam contact portion; a park rod responsive to an operation of a controller, the park rod having a cam portion pressing the cam contact portion to have park pawl engage the park gear; a park sleeve receiving the cam portion and defining a first contact point providing a reactive force to the cam contact portion of the park pawl pressing against the cam portion at a second contact point; a pawl torsional spring biasing the park pawl towards disengagement; and a pawl stopper limiting the rotation of the park pawl wherein motions are constrained within a plane of the transmission and components are rotatingly disposed in parallel axis bores in one half of a transmission case.
US08881882B2 Rotational coupling device with improved lubrication
A rotational coupling device having improved lubrication is provided. The device includes a hub disposed about a rotational axis. A rotor is supported on, and configured for rotation about, the hub and defines a radially extending wall and a chamber on one side of the wall surrounding said hub and defining a sump containing a fluid. An armature is supported on the hub for rotation therewith within the chamber and axially spaced from the wall. Clutch plates are disposed between the rotor wall and armature and rotatably coupled to the rotor or armature. A field shell is disposed on an opposite side of the rotor wall from the armature and houses a conductor. One or more tubes have an end submerged in the fluid and extend through apertures in the armature. Rotation of said armature draws fluid through the tubes and onto the clutch plates.
US08881870B2 Recirculation valve in an aircraft engine
The present invention relates to an installation for lubricating and/or cooling in an aircraft engine comprising an oil tank (3), a main feed pipe (6) feeding a main pump (1) supplying a flow in a discharge line from the main pump (7) to one or several systems (2) to be lubricated and/or cooled, wherein the installation comprises a feed pipe for an auxiliary pump (8) fitted in parallel onto the main pipe (6) and connected to an auxiliary feed pump (1A), the latter supplying a flow in a discharge line from the auxiliary pump (8A) connected by a three-way circuit on the one hand to a non-return valve (4A) directed towards the main discharge line (7), and on the other hand to a hydraulically-operated (9) recirculation valve (5), in order to divert the flow from the auxiliary feed pump (1A) into a return line (8B) directly towards the tank (3).
US08881869B2 Dual action latching horizontal scaffold member
One embodiment of the invention is a horizontal scaffold member having a primary end connector and a secondary end connector. Each end connector is configured to couple to a cup on a vertical scaffold member. Each end connector includes a wedge assembly having a handle and a wedge, movable with respect to the wedge head to a latched and unlatched position. The primary wedge assembly is connected to the secondary wedge assembly by a cable, and configured so that moving the primary wedge assembly to a unlatched position also moves the secondary wedge assembly to an unlatched position.
US08881868B2 Material support assembly
A material support assembly (21) for use on an aerial lift work platform (12) surrounded by a safety barrier (17) with a kick plate (14) adjacent the platform (12), the assembly (21) having at least one leg (22 or 23) mounted on a foot (24) which rests on the platform (12), the leg and foot having a first coupling means (31) for securing the assembly (21) to the kick plate (14) on one side of the platform and a further coupling means (32) for engaging the kick plate (14) on the opposite side of the platform, the further coupling means (32) preferably being located at the end of an arm (25) extending away from the foot (24) and resting against the platform.
US08881862B1 Split core fire arm suppressor
A separable and cleanable split core firearm suppressor that can be easily disassembled into two separate cores after use and easily cleaned, then reassembled for use.
US08881861B2 Steering system
A steering system includes a rack housing and a drainage device. The drainage device has a drainage case, and a drainage valve made of a resin. The drainage case has a case inlet port communicated with a housing space of the rack housing, case outlet ports communicated with the outside of the rack housing, a drainage space communicated with the case inlet port and the ease outlet ports, and a convex portion. The drainage valve has a valve body inlet port portion, and a valve body outlet port portion that interrupts communication between the case inlet port and the case outlet ports when the valve body outlet port portion comes into contact with the convex portion.
US08881842B2 Controlling method of electric tool and electric tool carrying out the controlling method
The invention relates to a power tool, which comprises a motor for driving a tool bit rotating, the motor attains a rotational speed, a source for supplying an electric current to said motor, a sensor for measuring said current, and a control device. The control device fulfills the task of detection of a variation of the slope of the current in the course of time, and generates a control signal. The rotational speed of the tool is reduced in response to the control signal. The present invention automatically detects whether the work piece operated by the tool bit reaches a predetermined position by providing electronic control means. It may make sure that the screw is driven into a piece of wood and does not go beyond the predetermined position once detect that the work piece reaches the position and carries out the changing action.
US08881835B2 Manipulator tool and tool catcher useful with wellbore reverse circulation
A method for reverse circulating a tool upwardly through a wellbore, the method including: providing a manipulator tool including an upper end and a lower end, conveying the manipulator tool down hole to a position adjacent a downhole tool, using the manipulator tool to manipulate the downhole tool, and reversing fluid flow through the well to create a pressure differential about at least one of the manipulator tool and the downhole tool such that the at least one of the manipulator tool and the downhole tool is lifted upwardly through the wellbore. A manipulator tool for use in a reverse circulating method is also described as are a tool catcher, a tool catching assembly and a tool catching method.
US08881833B2 Remotely controlled apparatus for downhole applications and methods of operation
An apparatus for use downhole is disclosed that, in one configuration includes a downhole tool configured to operate in an active position and an inactive position and an actuation device, which may include a control unit. The apparatus includes a telemetry unit that sends a first pattern recognition signal to the control unit to move the tool into the active position and a second pattern recognition signal to move the tool into the inactive position. The apparatus may be used for drilling a subterranean formation and include a tubular body and one or more extendable features, each positionally coupled to a track of the tubular body, and a drilling fluid flow path extending through a bore of the tubular body for conducting drilling fluid therethrough. A push sleeve is disposed within the tubular body and coupled to the one or more features. A valve assembly is disposed within the tubular body and configured to control the flow of the drilling fluid into an annular chamber in communication with the push sleeve; the valve assembly comprising a mechanically operated valve and/or an electronically operated valve. Other embodiments, including methods of operation, are provided.
US08881831B2 Offshore universal riser system
An offshore universal riser system may include a valve module which selectively permits and prevents fluid flow through a flow passage extending longitudinally through a riser string. An anchoring device may releasably secure the valve module in the passage. A method of constructing a riser system may include the steps of installing the valve module in the passage, and installing at least one annular seal module in the passage. The annular seal module may prevent fluid flow through an annular space between the riser string and a tubular string positioned in the passage. Drilling methods may include injecting relatively low density fluid compositions into the annular space, and selectively varying a restriction to flow through a subsea choke in a drilling fluid return line. The riser string, including housings for the various modules and external control systems, may be dimensioned for installation through a rotary table.
US08881830B2 Riser pipe section with flanged auxiliary lines and bayonet connections
A riser pipe section (4) is disclose for offshore well drilling operations comprising a main tube element (6) having as an extension a male connector element (10) and a female connector element (9) comprising a first series of tenons. At least one auxiliary tube element (7) is secured to the male connector element (10) and to the female connector element (9) so that the main tube element (6) and the auxiliary tube element (7) jointly transmit tensile stresses between the male connector element (10) and the female connector element (9). A locking ring is mounted on the male connector element and the ring comprises a second series of tenons.
US08881829B2 Backup wellhead blowout prevention system and method
A backup blowout system for a subsea wellhead positioned between an existing blowout prevention system and the wellhead. The backup blowout system includes an independently operated shear/blind ram assembly that attaches to a standard wellhead connector that connects to the wellhead. The ram assembly includes an upper neck with an upper flange on which a dual housing assembly is attached. The dual housing assembly includes a primary housing longitudinally aligned over a secondary housing. The primary and secondary housings include lower bodies and upper necks that have identical diameters. During assembly, the existing primary blowout prevention system is initially connected to the primary housing and the ram assembly is connected to the wellhead connector. When a blowout occurs, the primary housing is disconnected from the secondary housing to expose the upper neck of the secondary housing upon which a replacement primary blowout prevention system or cap may be attached.
US08881822B2 Non-aqueous breaker fluids and methods of use thereof
A method of cleaning a wellbore drilled with an oil-based drilling fluid that forms an oil-based filter cake may include: emplacing a breaker fluid into the wellbore, the breaker fluid comprising: a water-miscible non-aqueous fluid; at least one weighting salt; and at least one breaking agent; and shutting in the well for a period of time sufficient to initiate breaking of the oil-based filter cake.
US08881814B2 Liner cementation process and system
Present embodiments are directed to coupling a cementation assembly with a hung or set liner string in a well and moving the liner string during a cementation operation. Specifically, for example, a process in accordance with present techniques includes running a cementation assembly into a well on drill pipe and engaging, with a distal end of the cementation assembly, a liner top assembly of a liner string that is positioned downhole in the well, wherein the liner string was previously positioned downhole in the well without being cemented into the well. Further, the process includes latching the cementation assembly with the liner string such that movement of the cementation assembly is translated to the liner string, and flowing cement through the drill pipe and into the liner string while moving the cementation assembly and the liner string.
US08881811B2 Additives to suppress silica scale build-up and methods of use thereof
Treatments and compounds for use in subterranean formations where surfaces may be subject to silica scale build-up. Certain embodiments pertain to utilizing silica scale control additives with remediation and stimulation treatments. One example of a suitable method of treatment includes providing an acidic treatment fluid comprising: a base fluid, an acid, and a silica scale control additive; contacting at least a portion of a subterranean formation with the acidic treatment fluid; and allowing the acidic treatment fluid to interact with silica scale buildup in the subterranean formation so that at least a portion of the silica scale buildup is removed.
US08881803B1 Desander system
A desander system for a wellbore for separating wellbore fluid from particulate. The system having a dip tube nipple, a dip tube, base tubing connecting around the dip tube having base tubing perforations, two collars affixed to the base tubing, two weld rings affixed to the base tubing, a screen jacket mounted over the base tubing perforations, and a Venturi centrifugal helical desander having a Venturi tube with a bore connected to the base tubing. The Venturi tube having a plurality of spiral fins configured to flow particulate around the tube and a desander tube connected to the Venturi tube for flowing wellbore fluid over the outside of the Venturi tube causing a vortex while simultaneously allowing particulate to fall out while simultaneously allowing cleaned fluid to flow up the bore.
US08881801B2 Apparatus and method for the installation or removal of a rotary control device insert or a component thereof
An apparatus for installing and removing a rotary control device insert or an element thereof has a first clamp with a receptacle suitable for receiving a flange of the rotary control device insert therein, a second clamp having an interior suitable for extending around a pipe, and a plurality of lines extending between the first clamp and the second clamp. The first clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. The second clamp is movable between an open position and a closed position. Each of the clamps includes a first jaw and a second jaw connected to the first jaw by a hinged connection.
US08881800B2 Installation for the in situ extraction of a substance containing carbon
An installation for the in-situ extraction of a substance including hydrocarbons from an underground deposit is provided. The conductor and return conductor of the inductor lines are guided essentially vertically in the capping to the bottom of the deposit, at a small maximum lateral distance of 10 m compared to the length of the lines, but especially less than 5 m. Preferably, the inductor lines are guided horizontally in the deposit and are at different distances in certain areas. Furthermore, the electrical conductors and return conductors perpendicularly extending in the capping preferably combine to form a conductor pair. In this way, the conductor pair can be introduced into a single borehole which reaches into the reservoir and splits only once it has arrived in the reservoir.
US08881798B2 Remote manipulation and control of subterranean tools
A subterranean tool that is self contained for actuation can be run into a desired location on an automatic set mode controlled by a timer. If a problem develops in getting the tool to the desired location in time a magnetic field created by permanent or electro-magnets can be brought to bear on the tool to stop the timer before the tool actuates. Once the tool is subsequently positioned at the desired location another magnetic field can be brought to bear near the tool to set it. Alternatively, the tool can be run to the desired location without activation with the timer and then the magnetic field can be brought to the tool to set it. The magnetic field can be lowered to the tool with wireline or can be dropped or pumped past the tool to actuate the tool. Optionally the field can be generated from within an object that ultimately lands on a seat to provide a backup way to set the tool using tubing pressure.
US08881792B2 Method for manufacturing titanium ingot
The present invention is a method for manufacturing a titanium ingot (30), the method being characterized by comprising: a step of melting a titanium alloy for a predetermined time by cold crucible induction melting (CCIM); a step of supplying molten titanium (6) to a cold hearth (10), and separating high density inclusions (HDIs)(8) by precipitation in the cold hearth (10) while spraying a plasma jet or an electron beam onto the bath surface of the molten titanium (6); and a step of supplying a molten titanium starting material from which the HDIs (8) are separated by precipitation to a mold (20) to obtain the titanium ingot.
US08881787B2 Retractable safety gate
A retractable safety gate has a mounting assembly, a control assembly, a delaying assembly, an operating assembly, a blocking cloth, a grip assembly and a receiving assembly. The control assembly has a controller, a ratchet unit and a spiral spring. The spiral spring is connected between the controller and the ratchet unit. Thus, the controller is pulled back to the original position to be closed by the spiral spring, thereby reducing number of the components such that the retractable safety gate has a simplified structure.
US08881785B2 Tyre building drum with turn-up mechanism
Tire building drum having a turn-up mechanism for use in building an unvulcanized tire using rubber tire components, having two sets of turn-up arms (14), wherein each set of arms is connected to an axially shiftable arm support (17). The tire building drum is provided with means on the one hand for shifting the arm supports in a first direction to move the sets of turn-up arms axially towards each other, wherein the arras are tiltable in radial planes from a starting position to a tilting position, and on the other hand for in a second direction, opposite the first direction, shifting the arm supports to move the arms axially apart from the tilting position into the starting position. The tire building drum is provided with a pneumatic detection device (20) (23) for detecting whether at least one of the moving parts, such as the arms or the clamping device, are in the starting position, and for giving a detection signal indicating whether or not the arms are in the starting position.
US08881783B2 Pneumatic tire
There is provided a pneumatic tire having excellent uneven wear resistance performance, low rolling resistance and durability of side portion's appearance. The pneumatic tire comprises a carcass as a framework consisting of at least one carcass ply troidally extending between bead portions embedded with a pair of bead cores and turned around the bead cores from an inner side to an outer side in a tire width direction, a belt comprising at least one inclined belt layer and a tread successively disposed on a radially outer side of a crown portion of the carcass, wherein a ratio BD/BW is in a range between 0.01 and 0.04 in a section of the tire in the width direction in a state where the tire is mounted on an application rim, where BD is radius difference between radius at a central portion and radius at an end portion in the tire width direction of the outermost layer of the inclined belt layer and BW is a width of the outermost layer and CSEh is larger than SWh, where CSEh is a shortest distance from an end of a turn-up portion of the at least one carcass ply to a line drawn in parallel with a tire rotation axis at a bead toe and SWh is a shortest distance between a line drawn in parallel with the tire rotation axis at a maximum width position of the tire and the line drawn in parallel with the tire rotation axis at the bead toe.
US08881781B2 Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire capable of reducing air column resonance arising from circumferential grooves without changing the shape of unilaterally open-ended lug grooves. Lug grooves 20 are formed in land portions 15, which are defined by the circumferential grooves, and each of the lug grooves 20 consists of a lateral groove portion 21, which extends axially to open at one end into the circumferential groove and communicate at the other end with a sub-groove 12 provided in the land portion 15, and an oblique groove portion 22, which extends in a direction intersecting with the tire axial and circumferential directions to communicate at one end with the sub-groove 12 and terminate at the other end within the land portion 15. Also, the lateral groove portion 21 of the lug groove 20 is provided with a projection 23 protruding toward the tread surface from the bottom of the lug groove 20 and having a height smaller than the height H of the land portion 15 as measured from the bottom of the lug groove 20.
US08881779B2 Pneumatic tire with tread having dent parts and sipes
Provided is a pneumatic tire which achieves both of excellent wet traction and wear resistance from an early stage to an advanced stage of wear. Multiple dent parts are formed, at certain intervals in a tire circumferential direction, in both side walls of each of at least two land portions of multiple land portions being formed in a tread surface and extending in the tire circumferential direction. Each of the dent parts has a smaller depth than main grooves that define the land portion where this dent part is formed. Multiple sipes are formed to traverse the land portion in a tire width direction between the right and left dent parts opposed to each other. Each of the sipes has a greater depth in both end regions opening to the dent parts than in a center region thereof.
US08881767B2 Ball valve and seat assembly with life-sustaining flow
A ball valve including a valve body having a valve chamber, a ball member positioned in the valve chamber and defining first and second internal passages in fluid communication, and first and second seat rings, the first seat ring allowing fluid to flow past and through the second passage when the ball valve is in a life-sustaining flow operating position.
US08881765B2 Fuel feed apparatus
A reservoir is located in a fuel tank. The reservoir is in a bottomed tubular shape having a periphery defining an opening. A lid member is located in the fuel tank and mounted to the periphery of the reservoir to close the opening. A pump unit is partially accommodated in the reservoir to discharge fuel stored in the reservoir to an exterior of the fuel tank. The pump unit is located at a position offset from a center axis of the lid member. The pump unit has a projection projected from the lid member to an exterior of the reservoir. A remaining quantity detector is configured to detect a quantity of fuel in the fuel tank. The remaining quantity detector is located at a remaining space remaining in the fuel tank. The remaining space is located on the lid member and located around the projection.
US08881756B1 System for harvesting rainwater
A system for rainwater harvesting includes a rain barrel adapted for collecting and storing rainwater runoff gravity-fed from a rooftop through a downspout. A substantially rigid downspout diverter comprises an inlet section, an overflow section, and an elongated connector section interconnecting the inlet section and the overflow section. The inlet section has a first end adapted for communicating with an end of the downspout and a second end communicating with an inlet opening formed with the rain barrel. The overflow section has a first end communicating with an overflow opening formed with the rain barrel and a second end extending away from the rain barrel.
US08881744B2 Lash holder
A lash holder having a U-shaped sheet comprising of a curved top part and a bottom part fixed at a designated place; the curved top part is intended for setting at least one strip with numerous lashes for increasing, enlarging and separating the space between the top of the lashes, so that it is easy for the user to take off individual lashes.
US08881740B2 Method of using an eyebrow stencil holder
A novel gauging device and associated stencils for shaping of eyebrows according to a Golden Ratio standard. The gauging device is adapted to be placed over a woman's face and maintained in a fixed position relative to her eyes and nose. A nosepiece and knobs are adjusted such that a lower end of a guide rod may be rotated about various points relative to the nose and held in predetermined angles relative to the nose and eyes, possibly supported magnetically on a lower track adjacent the nostrils and an upper track above the eyebrows. Each stencil may be adapted to accommodate not only different eyebrows of different sizes, but also to adjust the eyebrow's ideal Golden Ratio “High Point” to complement facial proportions (preferably represented by a single Facial Ratio Value or “FRV”) that deviate from an ideal Golden Ratio.
US08881734B2 Cheek path airway
The cheek path airway fits a path between a user's lips and through the user's cheek pouch and rear-jaw gap, avoiding the user's bite. It provides supplemental air to a user's rear-mouth cavity independently of a user's nasal airways while a user's lips remain closed. The airway can be used in combination with mandibular jaw-control and tongue-control devices whereby the combination mitigates breathing restrictions in a user's nasal and throat airways. The cheek path airway can be combined with and stabilized by a cheek pocket anchor, formed of a resilient filament, that fits within a user's cheek pouch.
US08881727B2 System and method for providing feedback to a subject regarding reception of positive airway support therapy
A system and method provide feedback to a subject regarding compliance to a positive airway pressure support therapy regime. The feedback is provided to the subject in real-time (or near real-time). The feedback indicates to the subject whether a usage goal has been achieved. The usage goal may be dynamically and adaptively determined based on past usage by the subject. This may facilitate the automatic generation of usage goals for the subject that are realistic and gradually increase the compliance of the subject over time.
US08881724B2 Device and method for graphical mechanical ventilator setup and control
An input device for a clinician to control and modify the operation of a mechanical ventilator comprises a graphical display, a representation of a respiratory therapy trajectory to be delivered to a patient, at least one data point associated with the trajectory, and a data input means for the clinician to select a data point and to modify the value of the trajectory at that data point. The present invention provides for the creation and modification of a respiratory therapy trajectory, wherein the ventilator provides a medical gas waveform to a patient according to the respiratory therapy trajectory.
US08881717B2 Built-in cooking appliance
A built-in cooking appliance includes a top plate, a main body provided under the top plate and receiving a heat source, a cabinet on which the top plate is installed, a top cover covering a space defined between a side cover of the top plate and the cabinet, an air outlet formed on the main body, a cover airflow hole provided on the top corner and providing a path along which the air discharged through the air outlet is discharged to an external side, and a storage space provided on a path an airflow path between the air outlet and the cover airflow hole and storing water introduced through the cover airflow hole.
US08881716B2 Wire saw with tension detecting means and guide roller speed control
The present invention provides a wire saw which cuts a workpiece using a cutting wire and is capable of adjusting wire tension with high responsiveness. The wire saw includes first and second workpiece cutting units 1A and 1B. Each of the workpiece cutting units 1A and 1B includes a pair of guide rollers 10a and 10b around which a wire W is wound to form a workpiece-cutting wire group. The wire saw further includes a tension detector 18 which detects tension in the wire W between the workpiece cutting units 1A and 1B, and a control device 50. The control device 50 changes a rotational speed of the guide rollers 10a and 10b of at least one of the workpiece cutting units based on the tension detected by the tension detector 18 so as to keep the tension within an acceptable range.
US08881713B2 Method and system for humidity sensor diagnostics
Methods and systems are provided for an engine including a humidity sensor. Degradation of the humidity sensor may be determined based on a change in intake air relative humidity as compared to a change in intake air temperature or pressure, under selected conditions. An amount of exhaust gas recirculated to an engine intake is adjusted differently based on whether the humidity sensor is degraded or functional.
US08881710B2 Bleed element with overmolded seal for evaporative emissions canister
A deflector mounts a carbon scrubber element at an atmospheric port of an evaporative emissions canister. A substantially cylindrical shell has an open end and a closed end. A spacer plate extends outwardly from the shell. An elastomeric ring is overmolded within the shell at a longitudinal position between the ends. The elastomeric ring has an inner diameter configured to sealingly receive the carbon element. A plurality of vapor apertures are formed in the shell between the spacer plate and the elastomeric ring. A plurality of elastomeric ribs are overmolded by the interior surface within the shell the vapor apertures and the closed end, and are configured to be spaced around the carbon element to suspend the carbon element spaced away from the shell without blocking a gaseous flow from the vapor vents to the carbon element.
US08881707B2 Fail-safe controller for direct injection engine
A fuel pressure varies according to whether a fuel pressure sensor and a high-pressure pump have a malfunction or not. In view of this, a first threshold Perr1 is defined for determining whether the fuel pressure sensor has a malfunction and a second threshold Perr2 is defined for determining whether the high-pressure pump has a malfunction. The second threshold Perr2 is greater than the first threshold Perr1. By comparing a detection value of the fuel pressure sensor with the first and the second threshold, a malfunction in the fuel pressure sensor and a malfunction in the high-pressure pump are distinguished from each other. A first fail-safe control or a second fail-safe control is executed according to a portion having a malfunction.
US08881702B1 Camshaft phaser
A camshaft phaser is provided for varying the phase relationship between a crankshaft and a camshaft in an engine. The camshaft phaser includes a stator having lobes. A rotor disposed within the stator and rotatable between a full retard position to a full retard position includes vanes interspersed with the stator lobes to define alternating advance and retard chambers. A lock pin selectively engages a lock pin seat for preventing a change in phase relationship between the rotor and the stator at a predetermined aligned position between the full advance and full retard positions. A counterbalancing member is located within one of the advance chambers or the retard chambers, attached to a vane to thereby apply a torque between the rotor and the stator only when the rotor is between the predetermined aligned position and one of the full retard position and the full advance position.
US08881701B2 Camshaft adjusting device
An adjusting device for adjusting a camshaft relative to a drive sprocket, which drives the camshaft coaxially. The adjusting device includes an actuating gear which acts between the drive sprocket and the camshaft and is driven via an electric motor to adjust the camshaft. The actuating gear has internally- and externally-toothed gearwheels in engagement with each other, in which the internally toothed gearwheel is rotated about a central axis of the adjusting device. The externally toothed gearwheel is arranged eccentrically with respect to the central axis and is driven to perform a circular motion about the central axis. The externally toothed gearwheel is supported eccentrically on at least two eccentric shafts, each eccentric shaft being driven to perform a rotary motion about a respective eccentric axis. The eccentric axes are arranged eccentrically with respect to the central axis and can be rotated about the central axis.
US08881699B2 Feed forward dynamic spool valve
A method of controlling a spool valve through feedback and feedforward mechanisms is described. In one example, a method includes actuating a spool valve via a solenoid to advance and retard a hydraulic variable cam timing actuator coupled to a camshaft, and while commanded to a null position to maintain current cam timing, modulating the solenoid with a component at a frequency synchronous to engine firing frequency to counteract cam torque oscillations. In this way, a spool valve may be maintained in a null position despite high cam torque oscillation frequency, thereby retaining oil in a solenoid assembly and improving can timing position.
US08881698B2 Camshaft phaser intermediate locking pin and seat
A vane-type camshaft phaser for an internal combustion engine includes an intermediate locking pin and seat for locking the camshaft phaser at a position intermediate of its full advanced and retard positions. A feature is provided for radially orienting the locking pin with the seat.
US08881696B2 Two-stroke engine
A two-stroke engine has a cylinder having a cylinder bore with a combustion chamber and an outlet connected with the combustion chamber. A piston is disposed in the cylinder and delimits the combustion chamber. The piston has a piston recess. A crankcase is provided that has a crankshaft rotatably supported therein. The piston drives in rotation the crankshaft. In at least one position of the piston, the crankcase is connected by a transfer passage with the combustion chamber. An air passage is provided as well as a mixture passage that has a mixture inlet that is disposed at the cylinder bore and opens into the cylinder bore and is piston-controlled. The transfer passage is connected by the piston recess to the air passage when the piston is at top dead center. The piston recess has a connection to the mixture inlet in at least one position of the piston.
US08881694B2 Generator set assembly with baffle
An apparatus includes a housing having a ventilation opening. A component such as a generator set can be disposed within an interior space of the housing. A baffle can be disposed within the interior space of the housing at a location that obstructs an acoustic line of sight between the ventilation opening and the component to eliminate or otherwise reduce a sound signature of the component. The baffle can also be configured to accumulate water from the ventilation opening. A drain can also be provided to aid in the removal of water accumulated by the baffle and route the water outside the housing.
US08881688B2 Gas-fired water heater with an exhaust assembly
An exhaust assembly for use with a gas-fired water heater that includes a hood for receiving exhaust gas from the gas-fired water heater, a housing, and a fan positioned in the housing to move exhaust gas from the hood out of the exhaust outlet. The hood includes a first hood mounting location and a second hood mounting location. The housing includes an exhaust outlet and a housing mounting location. In a first configuration, the exhaust outlet faces a first direction and the housing mounting location is aligned with and secured at the first hood mounting location. In a second configuration, the exhaust outlet faces a second direction different than the first direction and the housing mounting location is aligned with and secured at the second hood mounting location.
US08881686B2 Remote animal training system using voltage-to-frequency conversion
An animal training device and system which uses a voltage to frequency conversion technology (VFC) providing the capability to adjust in gradual incremental levels upward and downward for consistent and individual electronic control of separate output to an animal undergoing training to learn new behaviors which are desired by its owner/handler/trainer. The device is contained in a housing which is worn around the neck of an animal by means of a collar strap or attached to a harness that properly fits onto an animal. The primary use is with dogs, but all kinds of domestic animals may be trained using this device. This VFC technology is offered in a variety of electronic platforms. Whether one-way or two-way remote control with manual activation by the user, automatic activation by remote sensor detectors, or automatically activated by an on-board microprocessor circuitry sensing the animals own actions, either or all device outputs allow the animal's caretaker the unique capability to select an appropriate level of one of a variety of cue signals at a given moment allowing the animal not to be overwhelmed or to cause any over-reactions.
US08881685B2 Tug toy
A tug toy that includes at least two gripping members and a central portion, wherein the at least two gripping members are attached to the central portion, and wherein the central portion further includes a noise maker.
US08881683B2 Fish cage screen and cleaning apparatus
The device includes a screen cleaning brush with multiple fibers or cleaning fingers made from a flexible material with a hook and barb shape. The hook is designed to trap the screen strand as it passes and rotates on a flexible arm to clean the adjacent and opposite side of the strand and then flexes to release the strand. The instant invention has a unique propulsion system and navigation system that enables automatic navigation of the cleaning apparatus on the screen of the aquaculture cage. Alternative the screen cleaning can be performed with a frame having fins to assist in the directional placement of the cleaning fingers against a submersed screen.
US08881681B2 Compositions useful as animal litters
The invention provides a composition suitable for use as an animal litter comprising a first component having a density less than that of liquid and a second component having a density of at least 5 lb/ft3 (80 mg/cm3) greater than the first component. The invention is based upon the discovery that adding liquid such as urine to a composition having two components with significant differences in density, one of which is less than the density of the liquid, will result in the component with the lesser density floating to the top of the liquid while the component with the greater density will segregate below the component with the lesser density.
US08881680B1 Outdoor litter box sifting system
A litter box and sifting system having a cat door that is installed on the interior wall of a building and a litter box assembly located on the exterior side of the building. The litter box is accessed through a cat door and an adjustable tunnel. At the bottom of the litter box are interchangeable tray assemblies containing litter. The litter can be selectively sifting through fixed screens and removable sliding panels. The litter box enclosure includes a fan to assist ventilation through louvers, an interior light, a rechargeable battery for powering the fan and light, and a solar cell to recharge the battery.
US08881679B1 Device for aiding male dogs using dog training pads
A device that can be used with training pad for male dogs. It uses a flat training pad as a base, an inner cone-shaped form, a second training pad, positioned over the form and a cage that fits over the pad and form. The assembled device creates an upright target for the male dog, making urinating as natural as being outdoors.
US08881677B2 Shadow mask for patterned deposition on substrates
A method for performing a physical vapor deposition (PVD) on a substrate is disclosed, comprising placing a substrate on a susceptor disposed below one or more PVD guns and below a plasma shield assembly having a bellows and a shadow mask coupled to a bottom side of the bellows, lowering the bellows toward the substrate to place the shadow mask in contact with the substrate; and depositing a material on an isolated region on the substrate through the shadow mask. In one implementation, the shadow mask may include a plate having openings in the shape of individual dies on the substrate, and a layer having openings in the shape of features patterned on the substrate, wherein the layer is coupled to a bottom surface of the plate by an epoxy.
US08881658B2 Drive unit for rail vehicles
A drive unit for rail vehicles has a shaft including a hearing pin on each end for carrying a drive wheel, a supporting tube enclosing the shaft and journaled thereon, an engine mounted on a supporting tube, wherein the engine rests on a single bracket, the single bracket fastened to the supporting tube, a transmission including a spur wheel and a drive pinion, a housing enclosing a spur gear and the drive pinion, the housing including a single main part, a lid, and an engine bell, the engine bell forming a fixed connection between an engine housing and the main part of the housing, where the supporting tube is molded to the single main part of the housing to form a rigid unit and an engine rotor journaled on a single bearing, wherein the engine rotor is supported at a transmission side on a membrane coupling, the membrane coupling carried by a fully journaled drive pinion.
US08881653B2 Printing device and method for detecting paper width direction edge position
A printing device includes a head unit having a print head and a sensor that detects a presence or an absence of a sheet, a drive unit that causes the head unit to move to a width direction orthogonal to a feeding direction of the sheet, and a control unit controlling a position of the print head to the sheet based on a detection result of the sensor, wherein the control unit executes a first control that obtains the detection result of the sensor whenever the head unit moves only a first interval to a specific direction from a reference position and a second control that, when a change from the presence to the absence of the sheet is detected by the sensor during the first control, obtains the detection result of the sensor whenever the head unit moves only a second interval that is shorter than the first interval.
US08881648B2 Concentrator-integrated screw press
A concentrator-integrated screw press includes: a continuous concentrator configured to continuously concentrate sludge and discharge the sludge as concentrated sludge, and including a discharge amount equalization unit configured to equalize an amount of concentrated sludge to be discharged per unit time; a positive displacement pump installed consecutively to the concentrator, and configured to continuously transport the concentrated sludge discharged from the concentrator; and a screw press installed consecutively to a discharge side of the positive displacement pump, and configured to compress and dewater the concentrated sludge.
US08881647B2 Method of reducing the volume of a non-returnable blow-molded brewery-specific beer keg and other non-returnable containers
A method of reducing the volume of a non-returnable blow-molded brewery-specific beer keg and other non-returnable containers.
US08881638B2 Textile armour
Textile armour (2) comprising at least one textile section (4) and corresponding supporting means (6), wherein the arrangement is such that the or each textile section is fully extended.
US08881631B2 Glide movement controller and power miter saw including such controller
A glide movement controller for use with a hinge connection that includes a shaft, as well as a hinge connection and a power saw including such a controller. The glide movement controller includes a generally U-shaped controller body configured to move towards the shaft in a first direction such that resistance upon the shaft is increased and away from the shaft in a second direction such that resistance upon the shaft is decreased; a pair of apertures extending through the controller body; and an interior bearing surface defined on the controller body. The interior bearing surface is configured and arranged to face the shaft. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the interior bearing surface is located between the apertures.
US08881613B2 Electric actuator and manual adjustment mechanism thereof
An electric actuator includes: an actuating shaft and a screw rod screwed to and driving the actuating shaft; a motor connecting the screw rod; a connection seat connecting the actuating shaft and including a positioning post and a rotary shaft; a coupling ring sleeved around and rotating with the positing post, and a slide slot disposed out of the coupling ring; a support ring sleeved around the rotary shaft; a cylindrical connector sleeved around the support ring and screwed to a hinge end cap and with a locking slot communicating with the slide slot and disposed out of the cylindrical connector; a knob sleeved around the cylindrical connector and the coupling ring and covering the rotary shaft, and a raised rib slidably connected to the slide slot and the locking slot and disposed in the knob.
US08881612B2 Infinitely variable vibration exciter
A vibration exciter is provided. The vibration exciter includes a shaft and at least two unbalanced weights arranged on the shaft, in which the radial distance of the common center of gravity of the unbalanced weights from the rotational axis of the shaft is adjustable in an infinitely variable way by means of a gear. The vibration exciter comprises a gear which is a spatial coupling gear, e.g. a spatial vibration slider gear. A simple and compact configuration of the vibration exciter is thus proposed, in which the required adjusting forces for changing the imbalance are very low.
US08881609B2 Percussive driving apparatus for environmental sampling or test device
A percussive driving apparatus for an environmental sampling or test device. The driving apparatus comprises a percussion stem (10), a weighted percussion plunger (20) having a longitudinal bore through which the percussion stem (10) is received, the percussion plunger (20) being slidable along a length of the percussion stem (10), a lift element (80) to permit lifting of the percussion plunger (20) along at least a portion of said length of the percussion stem (10), and a percussion pad (30) affixed to the percussion stem (10) at or near a first end thereof. The percussion pad (30) is configured to receive percussive driving force from the percussion plunger (20). The percussion tube (10) is also adapted at the first end to connect to a probe (40) (for example a shielded or unshielded piezometer, or a split spoon sampler, a seepage meter, long term data logging monitoring device, or seismic device) for environmental sampling and/or testing.
US08881601B2 Flow meter and use thereof for determining a flow of a medium, as well as a method therefor
The invention relates to a flow meter for determining a flow of a medium. The flow meter comprises a flow tube for transporting the medium whose flow is to be measured. The flow tube has a supply end and a discharge end disposed downstream thereof. The flow meter is provided with a first flow sensor for measuring the flow of the medium at a first position of the flow tube. The flow meter is provided with a second flow sensor for measuring the flow of the medium at a second position of the flow tube.
US08881597B2 Measuring device including detection of deformations
A measuring device is described which has a metal body deformable in accordance with a value to be measured. A sensor element having a metal carrier and ohmic resistors formed thereon in metal thin-film technique is connected to the metal body by welding and generates a signal adapted to be electrically evaluated which corresponds to the deformation of the metal body. The weld for connecting the metal body and the sensor element completely encloses the metal carrier at its circumference. The metal body has, at the welded connection with the metal carrier, a material thickness t which is completely penetrated by the weld. The value to be measured by the measuring device comprises force, pressure, temperature, torque or combinations thereof.
US08881590B2 Balancing device
A balancing device includes an active balancing mechanism. The active balancing mechanism maintains the balancing device in an actively balanced state within a range of the active balancing mechanism. An auxiliary balancing mechanism is configured to support the balancing device in an unbalanced state that is outside the range of the active balancing mechanism and aid a transition of the balancing device to the actively balanced state that is within the range of the active balancing mechanism, wherein the auxiliary balancing mechanism is configured to support the balancing device includes to prop up the balancing device.
US08881588B2 Dielectric antenna and fill level sensor using the radar principle
A dielectric antenna (1) having at least one supply element (2) and at least one lens (3) formed of a dielectric material. The dielectric antenna makes it possible to measure the surface of a medium with an essentially consistent measuring accuracy in that the lens (3) has an outer component (4) and an inner component (5). The outer component (4) has a radiating surface (6) that is spherical and an inner surface (7) that is spherical, and the inner component (5) has a contact surface (8) that spherical. Furthermore, the antenna is usable as part of a fill level sensor operating on the radar principle.
US08881582B2 Method and apparatus for sample injection in liquid chromatography
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for substantially eliminating destructive transients of pressure or flow rate which can degrade the efficiency and useful lifetime of chromatography columns. The present invention enables a substantially constant flow of mobile phase liquid to be maintained through the chromatography system by eliminating the flow blockage interval associated with the actuation of sample injection valves. The present invention further provides a method to reduce the pressure and flow rate transients associated with pressurization of the sample loop contents when the sample loop is introduced to chromatography system delivery pressure.
US08881580B2 Process analysis unit
A process analysis unit includes a base module and an exchangeable cartridge module. The base module comprises at least one independent pump drive, and an analyte sensor without a fluidic measuring section. The cartridge module comprises a liquid reservoir tank, a sample taking device, at least one drive-less pump mechanism configured as a peristaltic membrane pump, a fluidic measuring section for the analyte sensor, and a plastic material plate with groove-like microfluidic channels configured to connect the liquid reservoir tank, the at least one drive-less pump mechanism, and a measuring section. The drive-less pump mechanism is driven pneumatically and pumps a liquid from the liquid reservoir tank. When the cartridge module is connected to the base module, the at least one drive-less pump mechanism is connected to and is driven by the at least one independent pump drive, and the fluidic measuring section is connected to the analyte sensor.
US08881577B1 Method and system for analysis of rheological properties and composition of multi-component fluids
A method and system for on-line multi-component fluid analysis, the system can be configured to measure the absolute viscosity using data acquired by monitoring the time it takes for a pump to move from one side to the other side and pressure at the discharge for a reference fluid and the time it takes for a pump to move from one side to the other side and pressure at the discharge for a sample fluid. The system and method can also include comparing the data acquired for the sample fluid and the reference fluid. The system and method can present rheological behavior of the sample fluid as Newtonian viscosity and the shear rate in real time.
US08881576B2 Test device for performing leak detection at a plurality of test sites
The leak detection device comprises a plurality of measuring cells (10) in whose interior the absorption of a laser beam (17) is influenced by the presence of tracer gas. All of said measuring cells (10) are connected to a host unit (25) via light-conducting fibers (28,34). In the host unit (25), a laser (26) designed for modulation and a photodetector (37) are arranged. Modulation of the laser radiation is preferably performed by two-tone frequency modulation. This has the effect that the fiber length cannot significantly skew the result of the measurement.
US08881573B2 Method for detecting wear of a tyre containing a sonic wear gauge
A method for detecting wear of a tire involves at least one sonic wear gauge emitting an acoustic footprint noise that includes several acoustic footprint elementary frequency components. An acoustic signal that includes the acoustic footprint noise is acquired, with the acoustic signal including several elementary frequency components acquired in the frequency domain. Several series of elementary frequency components are enumerated, with each enumerated series forming some part of the acoustic footprint elementary frequency components. An acoustic footprint series is determined and, if a confidence index determined based on a local confidence index is greater or less than a predetermined threshold, an alert regarding the wear of the tire is emitted.
US08881558B2 Combination and key operated locks with indicators
A lock for luggage, travelcases, briefcases and the like that can be unlocked by setting a combination using a combination mechanism of the lock, and, alternatively, by using a key in a key mechanism of the lock. An indicator of the lock moves to signal when the lock has been unlocked by use of the key mechanism. In some embodiments the indicator can only be reset after the lock has been unlocked using the combination mechanism. In some embodiments the indicator is automatically reset when the lock is unlocked using the combination mechanism. In some embodiments the lock is a padlock that has a shackle defined, at least in part, by a flexible cable.
US08881556B2 Washing and drying machine
A washing and dehydrating machine includes a circulating passage communicating between interior and exterior of a water tub, warm air generating unit rendering air in the passage warm, an overflow outlet located in the water tub surface, so that water flows through the overflow outlet when a water level in the water tub is increased to or above a level, a drain conduit introduced outside the machine via a drain valve, through which water in the water tub is discharged, an overflow conduit having a lower end connected to the drain valve and communicating with the overflow outlet, and air stopping unit located in the overflow conduit and including a trap cutting off air flow and a water supply unit supplying water to the trap, allowing water to pass through and stopping air flow. The overflow conduit is introduced outside the machine via the air stopping unit.
US08881546B2 Self-adapting multi-stage absorption heat pump
An absorption heat pump including a generator or desorber which generates vapour from a first fluid fed to a first condenser, an evaporator provided downstream of the condenser, an outlet of the evaporator connected by a third line to an inlet of a mixer of a low pressure absorber connected to a suction side of a pump feeding solution to the generator. The generator having a poor solution outlet connected by a sixth line provided with at least one lamination valve to a poor solution inlet feeding the absorber. The second line is brought into heat exchange contact with the low pressure absorber and opens into a liquid/vapour separator feeding the evaporator via a third line, the vapour outlet of the separator opening into an intermediate pressure absorber unit.
US08881535B2 Electric field control of two or more responses in a combustion system
A combustion system may include a plurality of heated volume portions. At least two of the plurality of heated volume portions may include corresponding respective electrodes. The electrodes may be driven to produce respective electric fields in their respective volumes. The electric fields may be configured to drive desired respective responses.
US08881529B2 Modular fuel supply device for a gas turbine including a fuel supply device having an integrated control device
A gas turbine, in particular a gas turbine aircraft engine, including a fuel supply device and a control device, wherein at least parts of the control device, in particular of an engine control device, are integrated into the fuel supply device.
US08881526B2 Laser for steam turbine system
A steam turbine system uses a laser to instantaneously vaporize water in a nozzle within a turbine. This steam is then used to rotate the turbine. Thus, the turbine system does not require an external boiler. The steam turbine system may be used in either an open system, where the steam passing through the turbine is not condensed and reused, or a closed system, where the steam passing through the turbine is condensed and reused.
US08881521B2 Cable protection system and method of reducing an initial stress on a cable
A method of reducing an initial stress on a cable includes stretching the cable to a first length to thereby define the initial stress. The cable has a central longitudinal axis, and includes a plurality of wires each twisted around the axis and formed from a shape memory alloy transitionable in response to a signal between a first state wherein each of the wires has a first temperature-dependent length, and a second state wherein each of the wires has a second temperature-dependent length that is less than the first. After stretching, the method includes activating the alloy by exposing the alloy to the signal such that the alloy transitions from the first to the second temperature-dependent state. Concurrent to activating, the method includes elongating the cable to a second length that is greater than the first to define a second stress on the cable that is less than the first.
US08881519B2 Slewing type working machine
A slewing-type working machine capable of reducing back pressure generated during slewing. The slewing-type working machine includes: a base carrier; an upper slewing body; a hydraulic motor including first and second ports and slewing the upper slewing body; a hydraulic pump, a slewing operation device including an operating member; a control valve controlling the hydraulic motor based on the operation signal of the slewing operation device; first and second pipe-lines connecting the first and second ports of the hydraulic motor to the control valve; a communication switching device capable of switching communication and cutting of between both pipe-lines and the tank; and a switching command section operating the communication switching devices, when the upper slewing body is slewed, to bring only a pipe-line, which corresponds to a discharge-side pipe-line of the hydraulic motor, of the pipe-lines into communication with the tank, while bypassing the control valve.
US08881517B2 Water-wave/flowing-water energy transformer
The present invention is a device and a method of generating large scale power plant using the energy content in ocean waves or river-channel flows. Ocean waves or flowing waters are used to generate compressed air. The pressurized air is then piped to shore and stored in large pressure tanks to be used in a buoyancy driven wheel rings. The wheel rings, which are located inside a large water reservoir, are spaced from each other and have series of receptacles or buckets connected to them. The high pressure air is injected at the bottom of the reservoir and the rising air is trapped inside the receptacles. The gas filled receptacles generate buoyancy forces which rotates the wheels and the central shaft to generate power.
US08881510B2 Control apparatus for internal combustion engine
A control apparatus for an internal combustion engine detects an amount of particulate matter contained in an exhaust gas in an exhaust passage, according to an electrical property across electrodes of a particulate matter sensor disposed in the exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine. The term “electrical property” here refers to a property that changes with the amount of particulate matter deposited, for example, a current value of when a predetermined voltage is applied. After the internal combustion engine is started and detection of the amount of the particulate matter is completed, an element section of the particulate matter sensor is set to a predetermined temperature range. The particulate matter deposited on the element section is thereby burned and removed. The control apparatus maintains the element section in the predetermined temperature range after burning and removing the particulate matter until the internal combustion engine stops.
US08881503B2 Method and device for preventing fuel freezing in a postprocessing burner system
Disclosed is a method for preventing fuel freezing in a postprocessing burner system with a burner 14 upstream of a particulate filter 12 (exhaust purification member) incorporated in an exhaust pipe. Fuel is fed from a fuel tank 16 served also for a diesel engine 1 (engine) to the burner 14 through a feed pipe 17, and excess fuel is returned to the fuel tank 16 through a return pipe 18. The fuel is periodically circulated between the burner 14 and the fuel tank 16 through the feed and return pipes 17 and 18 under a condition of ambient air temperature during vehicle travel being at or below a predetermined temperature.
US08881501B2 Propellant tank and vapor jet emitting device including same
A propellant tank for storing a liquid propellant A and supplying vapor produced by evaporation of part of the liquid propellant A to an external location comprises a tank body for storing the liquid propellant A, a mesh member arranged inside the tank body to cover a liquid surface of the liquid propellant A to divide an interior of the tank body into a liquid propellant storing area LA and a gas storing area GA by utilizing surface tension of the liquid propellant, and a heater arranged to a gas storing area GA side of the tank body to keep the gas storing area GA at higher temperature than temperature in the liquid propellant storing area LA. The tank body has a propellant inlet open into the liquid propellant storing area LA and a gas outlet open into the gas storing area GA.
US08881497B2 Method for removing and drawing a synthetic thread and a device for performing the method
The invention relates to a method and a device for removing and drawing a synthetic thread to form a fully drawn yarn. The thread is formed by joining a plurality of extruded filaments and is guided by contact on the circumference of heated guide jackets of several driven galette pairs. In order to obtain a gentle and highly homogenized treatment of the filaments, the thread is guided in an S-shaped or Z-shaped thread course by a first galette pair having two guide jackets driven in opposite directions during the removal from a spinning zone and before the drawing. Thus, both sides of the thread can be brought directly into circumferential contact with the guide jackets for in order to heat the thread.
US08881495B2 Front and rear ground sensing for header pitch control
A harvesting header and feederhouse for use with a crop harvesting machine has a feederhouse interface at a distal end of the feederhouse and a header frame. The header frame has a top beam, a bottom beam, and first and second vertical main structures connecting the top and bottom beams. The feederhouse interface and the vertical main structures of the header frame are pivotably connected to enable the header frame to pivot with respect to the feederhouse interface. At least one hydraulic ram connects between the feederhouse interface and the header frame to pivot the harvesting header on the feederhouse to a desired fore/aft pitch angle. A hydraulic supply provides hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic ram. Front and rear ground sensors provide an output that is used to control the fore/aft pitch angle of the harvesting header relative the ground by pivoting the header frame relative the feederhouse interface.
US08881494B2 Fire rated door core
A core for a fire rated door includes an extruded fire resistant material, a filler material and a panel. The extruded fire resistant material has a first raised portion, a second raised portion and a lower portion that extends from a first end to a second end. The first raised portion has a first thickness and a first width that extends from the first side to the lower portion. The lower portion has a second thickness. The second raised portion has the first thickness and a second width that extends from the second side to the lower portion. The filler material is disposed above the lower portion of the extruded fire resistant material between the first raised portion and the second portion. The panel is attached to the first raised portion and the second raised portion of the extruded fire resistant material and covers the filler material.
US08881491B2 Coupling member for damping vibrations in building structures
A building structure including a plurality of vertical elements extending from a ground surface with at least a first of the vertical elements connected to a second of the vertical elements by a coupling member, the coupling member includes a damping element for damping vibrations in the building structure resulting from relative movement between the first and second vertical elements due to lateral loads applied to the building structure. The damping element undergoes deformation due to the relative movement between the vertical elements causing the damping material to be activated in shear. At least one of a first and second fuse member is connected to at least one of first and second ends of the damping element respectively. The fuse member is selected from a material, and otherwise sized and dimensioned to exhibit semi-rigid behavior when the damping element undergoes deformation due to loads below a predetermined load limit and to undergo deformation without substantially increasing the load in the fuse and in the damping element when loads exceed the predetermined load limit, such that the damping element is prevented from deforming beyond its predetermined deformation limit and therefore avoiding any occurrence of damage that would reduce its ability to provide damping to the structure. First and second connecting means are also provided for rigidly connecting the first and second fuse members to the first and second vertical elements, respectively.
US08881484B2 Long span solar collector support system
A long span solar collector mounting system with a deployable truss structure centered beneath the beam, and a single centered vertical support and a stabilizing end support, for mounting solar panels and other equipment on roofs and other surfaces, that can be tilted to a desired angle with respect to the ground, and can be rotated about its vertical axis to maximize solar production, with a vertical member that is offset to direct resultant wind loads directly through the base thereby minimizing twisting or bending stresses on roof structures, with beam clamping capability for attaching to roof beams below the roof with only access above the roof, that can be tilted during and after installation for reroofing and servicing access, with angled retaining nuts that provide secure attachment of solar panels and other equipment.
US08881480B1 Construction assembly and method
A construction assembly for installation within new or existing residential or commercial building structures which increases the thermal efficiency of concrete construction panels while avoiding dangerous insulation materials and potential fire hazards. The construction assembly includes a first layer of concrete and a phase change material layer that efficiently retains heat when the phase change material melts and discharges heat as the phase change material crystallizes. Alternatively a support layer, a second phase change material layer and a second concrete layer can be included in a variety of combinations for increased efficiency. A method is disclosed for creating the construction assembly.
US08881476B2 Panels having multiple channel structures
A panel includes an insulating material, first channels disposed in a first surface of the insulating material, and second channels disposed in the first surface of the insulating material. The second channels are disposed at a first angle relative to the first channels. Additionally, the first channels and second channels are arranged such that each of the first channels is substantially parallel to the other first channels and each of the second channels is substantially parallel to the other second channels. The panel further includes a first retention clip disposed in one of the first channels. The first retention clip is configured to suspend an object having a substantially round cross-section within the one of the first channels. The first retention clip is further configured to prevent the object from contacting walls of the one of the first channels.
US08881472B2 Mounting device and method of installing of a solar panel
A solar panel mounting anchor adapted for mounting a solar panel on a flat roof, the anchor comprising integral ballast, and edges comprising a resilient material and at least one engagement feature adapted to receive a solar panel and to space the panel from said roof, and a base adapted to inhibit slipping of the anchor on said roof. Preferably the integral ballast is such that the mass of the anchor is at least 15 kg.
US08881468B2 Fixture wall mount assembly with integral flashing
A fixture mounting assembly includes a mounting bracket for attaching, via a flange, to the outside wall of a building under construction. A mounting block for holding the fixture in place against the wall fits within the mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a flashing component extending from the front face of the mounting bracket such that the mounting block is held in place by being at least partially surrounded by the flashing component. The fixture mounting assembly is useful but not limited to construction in which fiber cement siding will surround the outside wall and the associated fixture.
US08881467B2 Truss based display system
A display unit comprising a plurality of vertical truss members anchored to a floor surface; a plurality of horizontal rails attached to the vertical truss members thereby forming a frame; a horizontal track anchored to a floor surface in front of the vertical truss members; a plurality of cantilever supports attached across the top of the frame, the cantilever supports each having a front portion providing an upper frame and lower frame; a plurality of upper rectangular panels mounted in a first row adjacent one another in the upper frames; a plurality of lower rectangular panels mounted in the lower frames adjacent one another a second row below the first row; first and second side panels anchored to the floor track and to a plurality of the horizontal rails; a plurality of cabinets located adjacent one another between the first and second side panels and anchored to the floor track and at least one of said horizontal rails; and a plurality of display panels disposed between the top surfaces of the cabinets and the lower edges of the lower rectangular panels.
US08881466B2 Insulated door and method of assembling an insulated door
An insulated door (10029 includes a door frame made of four side members (1006, 1008, 1010, 1012) connected by four corner connectors (1014, 1016, 1018, 1020). The frame members are profiled “L” shaped extrusions having outer panel locating ribs (6035), and inner panel retaining slots (6007). The corner connector has a base (4044) with a projecting post (4040). A first pair of connector tabs (4022, 4044) project from adjacent sides of the base to cooperate with first connection slots (6028) of adjacent side members and a second pair of connector tabs (4042, 4043) project from the post to cooperate with connection slots (6026) of the adjacent side members. The outer panel is located on the opposite side of the frame by location ribs (6036). The legs (6009, 6011) of the extrusion define a space D between the inner and outer door panels, and this space is filled with foam insulation.
US08881460B2 Sliding door system for glass doors
A sliding door system comprises a door made of a glass panel. Roller units are connected to the door and project from a plane of the door. A structural transom has a glass panel body with main surfaces of the glass panel body positioned generally vertically. The glass panel body has at least one slot defined therein having a lower edge surface and an upper edge surface. The slot has a height for receiving a portion of the roller units between the lower edge surface and the upper edge surface, and a length for allowing a translation of the door to open and close an opening by movement of the roller units in the slot.
US08881447B2 Animal trap
An animal trap for restraining animals, such as raccoons. The trap includes a hollow body having an entrance opening, an external and an internal grip member spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the body, both having a V-shape, and a biased restraint member having a V-shape and adapted to move towards the grip members when released to engage an extremity of an animal inserted through the entrance opening. Two interchangeable trigger assemblies are each adapted to restrain the restraint member until proper engagement with a respective trigger member. The first trigger assembly releases the restraint member via a first directional force or an opposite second directional force applied to a first trigger member. The second trigger assembly releases the restraint member via only the first directional force applied to a second trigger member. A ground stake having jagged teeth and a swivel chain may be used for anchoring.
US08881440B2 Device for presenting information and frame for it
This invention relates to the field of advertising and information display. It can be used in the production of portable advertising and information media with flexible supports, transported easily, and installed quickly to display any visual information. The invention ensures high-quality and effective tensioning of the panel over the course of a long use period including multiple relocations. The device for presenting information comprises a panel mounted on a sectional frame with rotating edges of the panel mounted on the sides of the frame. Each of the rotatable edges consists of at least two layers: the panel itself and a facing applied to the panel in its pre-tensioned resiliently deformed state, thus retaining the tension of the panel material attached to the facing. The panel is mounted on a frame in a state of resiliently extended deformation and is fixed with edges supported in pairs on the frame.
US08881439B2 Greeting card with spinner activated multimedia content
A greeting card has a card body comprising at least a front panel and electrical components. The front panel contains an opening that acts as a track. A spinner including two wheels spaced apart and coupled together with an axle rotatably engages the track are positioned on opposite sides of the front panel. The spinner moves along the track by virtue of gravity when the greeting card is being tilted. The electrical components may include a power source, a sound module having an audio file stored therein, a speaker, and a switch located adjacent to the track. The spinner activates the switch when the spinner moves adjacent to the location of the switch which in turn initiates playback of the audio file through the speaker.
US08881433B2 Implement attaching to a forward motion-producing machine for elevating an edge encountering an immovable object
An implement attaching to a vehicle and having a work assembly and a linkage assembly, the work assembly having an edge commonly used for clearing snow. The work assembly may be for example a bucket on a front end loader. The linkage assembly is formed as a non-parallelogram quadrilateral with four pivot axes. Upper and lower pivot axes attach the linkage assembly to the work assembly. When the vehicle is driven so that the edge strikes an immovable object, the linkage assembly functions so that the lower pivot axis moves in a direction toward the work assembly relative to the upper pivot axis. That is, the quadrilateral linkage assembly functions to lift the edge as a heel of the work assembly remains on the ground such that the work assembly is allowed to tilt up so the edge can ride over the immovable object.
US08881431B2 Shoe with protrusions and securing portions
A shoe sole structure includes a midsole body that extends from the heel region to the forefoot region of a shoe and an outsole that is attached to the midsole body. The outsole includes a plurality of protrusions arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis of the shoe, while extending at least partially between the lateral edge and the medial edge of the shoe. One or more of the half tube structures can include grooves and/or projections to enhance traction on a contact surface.
US08881430B2 Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component
An article of footwear has an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The upper includes a knitted component and, in some configurations, a skin layer secured to the knitted component. The knitted component may have a plurality of protruding areas that extend outward and away from a void within the upper for receiving a foot of a wearer. The protruding areas may include one or both of (a) a first tubular structure and an inlaid strand extending through the first tubular structure and (b) a second tubular structure and yarn sections extending across the second tubular structure.
US08881420B2 Method and apparatus for measuring an opening
There is disclosed an apparatus and a method for measuring an opening dimension. The apparatus may comprise a handle or a handle mounting portion and a rod holder adjustably attached to the handle or handle mounting portion. The method may comprise the use of the apparatus to measure an opening dimension.
US08881413B2 Staff for electronic level
A staff for electronic level comprises a substrate where a short-range barcode 14 is engraved, and in the staff for electronic level, said short-range barcode is a barcode obtained by scaling down a barcode 13 for regular measurement and reversing the monochrome.
US08881412B2 Survey setting point indicating device and surveying system
A survey setting point indicating device comprises a prism device 5 and a support member, and in the survey setting point indicating device, said prism device comprises a laser emitting device 16 for emitting a laser beam 17, an omnidirectional prism 9 having a cavity 14 in a center, a mirror 18 which is provided in said cavity, is rotatable about two axes crossing at right angles, and can deflect, in an arbitrary direction, said laser beam emitted from said laser emitting device, and a control unit 19 for controlling a posture or a rotation of said mirror, and said support member supports said prism device, and said laser beam is configured to attach (transfer) a position of a center of said prism device to a required surface.
US08881408B2 Joint protecting member for combined fuel and handle unit
A combined fuel tank and handle unit for a motorized, handheld tool includes a substantially closed volume, a handle, and a joint between two parts of the unit. The joint protrudes a distance beyond the surrounding surfaces. At least one rib is disposed at a distance from the joint on the underside of the tool.
US08881405B2 Wheel support hub unit, bearing ring member for wheel support hub unit, and method of manufacturing the same
A raceway member (6) of a wheel support hub unit, having wheel or vehicle body fixing portions (7) extending radially outward from a solid or hollow shaft portion, and a wheel or vehicle body positioning cylindrical portion (9) extending concentrically with the shaft portion, the fixing portion (7) being formed by the cold side extrusion so that the fixing portion is integral with the shaft portion (5).
US08881401B2 Hypoid gear design method and hypoid gear
A degree of freedom of a hypoid gear is improved. An instantaneous axis in a relative rotation of a gear axis and a pinion axis, a line of centers, an intersection between the instantaneous axis and the line of centers, and an inclination angle of the instantaneous axis with respect to the rotation axis of the gear are calculated based on a shaft angle, an offset, and a gear ratio of a hypoid gear. Based on these variables, base coordinate systems are determined, and the specifications are calculated using these coordinate systems. For the spiral angles, pitch cone angles, and reference circle radii of the gear and pinion, one of the values for the gear and the pinion is set and a design reference point is calculated. Based on the design reference point and a contact normal of the gear, specifications are calculated. The pitch cone angle of the gear or the pinion can be freely selected.
US08881396B2 Method of manufacturing a fan assembly
In one aspect, a fan assembly is provided that can be manufactured while producing a significantly reduced amount of scrap material. More specifically, the fan assembly utilizes a hub ring and one or more hub strips to support a plurality of blades rather than a solid center disc or end disc used by some prior approaches. In another aspect, a method is provided that includes bending a member into an annular configuration and joining end portions of the member together to rigidly fix the member in the annular configuration. The rigid annular member may be used as an end ring, a hub ring, an orifice, or other component, while producing significantly less scrap material than traditional approaches.
US08881395B2 Method for increasing the coefficient of adhesion between two parts rotating as one with a rotor
A method for increasing the coefficient of adhesion between two parts that rotate as one with a rotor, for example a turbomachine rotor, those parts pressing against one another via pressing faces. The method includes milling at least one of the pressing faces so as to modify its surface finish and increase its roughness, then covering the or each machined face with a thin layer of a material that is hard and has a high coefficient of friction.
US08881377B2 Method for determining a critical dimension at a plane of interest from a measurement taken at a test plane
A method for determining a critical dimension of a structure along a plane of interest from a measurement along a test plane that is not necessarily located at the plane of interest. The method involves slicing a structure along a test plane and measuring a marker feature in this test plane. A determination of a critical dimension of a feature at the plane of interest is then determined based on the measurement of the marker feature measurement at the test plane. This testing methodology can be useful, for example in the measurement of a critical dimension of a write pole at an air bearing surface plane form a measurement of a test feature at a plane that is not necessarily located at the air bearing surface plane.
US08881374B1 Method of manufacturing for a disk drive head suspension for a fold over limiter
A method for manufacturing a disk drive head suspension including a load beam, a flexure and a limiter for restricting the range of motion of the flexure with respect to the load beam. The load beam includes an aperture and an engaged portion adjacent to the aperture. The flexure, in an unformed state, includes a slider mounting region and a generally planar engagement structure extending from the slider mounting region. The engagement structure includes a tab portion extending from the slider mounting region and a hook portion extending from the tab portion. During a first forming operation the hook portion is bent around a tooling die to a ninety degree angle with respect to the tab portion. The flexure is then welded to the load beam with the hook portion extending into the aperture. During a second forming operation the tab portion is bent around a tooling die to a ninety degree angle with respect to the slider mounting region. The second forming operation causes the hook to extend over the engaged portion of the load beam. The first and second forming operations can be performed with tooling moving only in a z-direction.
US08881367B2 Joining component and method for production of a joining component
A method for production of a joining component, the method comprising the steps of providing a metal section which is inductively heatable and defines an axial through aperture; and coating the metal element with a thermoplastic material by a single-component injection-molding of a base body of the joining component around the metal section so that the base body includes: a holding section formed as a cylindrical shaft and a flange, the flange including a first and second sides, and an inner side of the metal section is joined to the flange and an exposed outer side of the metal section faces away from the flange; and a the second side of the flange is axially recessed within the aperture; and a joining surface is comprised of the outer side of the metal section and a portion of the second side of the flange radially outward of the metal section.
US08881364B2 Pierce nut insertion tool
A pierce nut insertion tool is provided. In another aspect, a pierce nut feeding mechanism has a mechanically independent driver actuator from that of a punch. A further aspect of the present tool employs a member, moveable with a punch, that retains a pierce nut prior to fastening of the nut to a workpiece. An additional aspect uses a fluid actuated nut feeder including a piston.
US08881361B1 Methods of repairing a rotary drill bit
Embodiments of the invention relate to superabrasive compacts including multiple superabrasive cutting portions and methods of repairing a rotary drill bit that employs at least one of such superabrasive compacts.
US08881359B2 Machine tool assembling apparatus and method of assembling machine tool using machine tool assembling apparatus
A machine tool assembling apparatus and a method of assembling a machine tool using the machine tool assembling apparatus are provided. The machine tool assembling apparatus includes a table, a first support mechanism having an arm which is swingable toward and away from the table, and a second support mechanism. The first support mechanism is disposed between the table and the second support mechanism. The first support mechanism is rotated to bring the arm into facing relation to either the table or the second support mechanism.
US08881350B2 Clip for folded fabrics
A clip for holding folded articles such as towels, fabrics, textiles, nonwoven fabrics, paper, and other sheets of material, includes a single piece construction having contoured braces on opposite ends of a connector. The contoured braces define a hinge portion allowing the braces to move outwardly away from the connector and then resiliently return to a position adjacent the connector. The braces are formed into a shape similar to the English letter S such that one curved portion of the brace is a finger grip and a second curved portion of the brace fits against a folded fabric to hold the fabric within the clip.
US08881349B2 Adjustable holding device and associated adjustable connection mechanism
The adjustable holding device includes an elongate cord which may be elastomeric. The holding device has a first connection mechanism that is operatively connected to the elongate cord. In addition, an adjustable connection mechanism is also operatively connected to the elongate cord and configured to be movable along the length of the cord. The adjustable connection mechanism includes a cam system configured to engage the elongate cord at a desired location. In addition, the adjustable connection mechanism is configured to move along the elongate cord when the first connection mechanism and the adjustable connection mechanism are operatively connected to desired connection points.
US08881341B2 Debris collecting system
A debris collecting system comprises a debris collecting assembly including an air-flow generating device and a debris body. The system further comprises an intermediate debris collecting container connected to the debris collecting assembly such that the collected debris is by-passing the debris body of the assembly.
US08881338B2 Windshield wiper having a coupler with positive locking features
A windshield wiper assembly adapted to be mounted to the attachment portion of a wiper arm including a coupler assembly mounted to a wiper blade and serving to interconnect the wiper blade to the wiper arm. The coupler assembly includes a coupler having a body with a pair of sidewalls, a channel defined between the sidewalls and extending substantially parallel thereto. The channel is adapted to cooperatively receive the attachment portion of the wiper arm. A latching mechanism is operatively mounted to the body and movable between an open position spaced from the channel and a closed position disposed over the channel to secure the attachment portion of the wiper arm between the latching mechanism and the body thereby securing the coupler to the attachment portion of the wiper arm.
US08881335B2 Steam applicators
Steam applicators, steam applicator frames, and steam appliance systems in which a steam applicator can be maneuvered to clean and sanitize all kinds of surfaces, not merely floors.
US08881333B1 Replaceable bristle toothbrush device
A replaceable bristle toothbrush device for periodically replacing worn bristles of a toothbrush includes a head having a front face. Each of a plurality of panels has an associated plurality of bristles coupled to and extending from the panel. Each panel is selectively couplable to the front face of the head wherein the associated plurality of bristles extends outwardly from the front face of the head. A handle is provided having a first end and a second end. The head is coupled to and extends from the first end of the handle.
US08881330B2 Method of operating a laundry treating appliance
A method for treating laundry in a clothes dryer having a rotating drum defining a treatment chamber that includes applying a treating chemistry.
US08881328B2 Body support with fluid system and method of operating same
A body support assembly comprising a first layer (e.g., a visco-elastic foam) having a lower surface, and a second layer supporting the first layer and having an upper surface. One of the upper and lower surfaces is defined by a non-planar surface to define a plurality of passages. A fan is positioned to move air through the passages. Preferably, the non-planar surface comprises a plurality of protrusions (e.g., a convoluted surface). The body support can further comprise a sensor that detects a parameter and produces a signal, and a controller coupled to the sensor and programmed to control the fan. Multiple fans and sensors can be provided, and the controller can control the fans to provide different air flows through different locations of the body support assembly. A user interface can be coupled to the controller to allow selection of a desired parameter of the body support assembly.
US08881320B2 Toilet valve lever interlock
A dual flush toilet assembly including a locking mechanism that prevents over travel of a piston, thereby preventing inadvertent full flushing when only a partial flush has been selected, yet permits full flushing when so desired. Specifically, a rotatable locking mechanism that prevents the piston from moving fully upwards into the second latched position when a partial flush is desired, yet rotates to an unlocked position to permit the piston to move fully upwards into the second latched position when full flushing is desired.
US08881317B2 Warm toilet seat
A warm toilet seat contains a toilet seat having a seating surface and a transparent seat heater disposed on the seating surface, the seat heater contains a thin wiring structure having a pitch of 5000 μm or less and a heat transfer coefficient κ of 100 W/m·K or more, and a material having a heat transfer coefficient κ of 10 to 150 W/m·K is placed in an opening in the thin wiring structure.
US08881313B2 Molded articles of clothing with non-molded components
The present invention is an article of clothing, such as a glove, formed with a flexible, moldable material section forming one or more of the portions of the article of clothing. The moldable sections utilized in constructing the article of clothing are formed in a molding process which allows for the formation of the sections in a desired shape and/or with various function-enhancing members integrally on the moldable portions. In addition, the molding process for forming the moldable sections can be used to bond the moldable sections to the other non-moldable sections used in the construction of the article of clothing.
US08881312B2 Disposable bib
A disposable bib having a flexible bib body to cover at least a portion of the user's torso, wherein the bib body has a torso side and an outward side; at least one fastener attached to the bib to attach the bib to the user; an absorbent wipe fixably attached to the outward side of the bib body where the wipe is spread approximately flat and is ready to use; and a releasable cover sealingly attached to the body of the bib on the border that fully covers the wipe; wherein the cover fully encloses and seals the wipe; wherein the cover can be partially or fully removed from the bib body by pulling down, thereby exposing the wipe, and wherein the wipe can be manipulated while attached to the bib body to clean the user.
US08887310B2 Secure consumer programming device
A method is provided for operating a consumer programming device that provisions consumer electronic devices. The method includes receiving over a communication link a first enable message that authorizes the consumer programming device to make available one or more resources which enable it to provide services to consumer electronic devices. Services are provided to consumer electronic devices up until all the resources have been exhausted. Additional consumer electronic devices are provided with services only if a second enable message is received over the communication link.
US08887299B2 Digital content rights management method and system
A digital content rights management method and system belongs to the digital content rights management technique field. The method of the invention includes the steps: registering the system, generating the time stamp, verifying the time stamp when the system starts up, acquiring the certificate, verifying the time before accessing the digital content. The system of the invention comprises a device for accessing the digital content and a server, wherein the device for accessing the digital content comprises: a registering module, a time stamp generating module, a time stamp verification module, a certificate of authorization acquiring module, and a time verification module. The method and system have solved the problem that the digital content can still be used beyond the time limit.
US08887289B1 Systems and methods for monitoring information shared via communication services
A computer-implemented method may include providing a security service capable of monitoring information shared by users of at least one communication service. The computer-implemented method may also include identifying a user of the communication service that has registered for the security service and maintaining a database that identifies potentially sensitive information. The computer-implemented method may further include determining, while monitoring information shared by the user via the communication service, that the user is attempting to share information that is potentially sensitive. In addition, the computer-implemented method may notify the user of the user's attempt to share potentially sensitive information via the communication service. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.
US08887288B2 Method of detecting software falsification, apparatus configured to detect software falsification, and computer-readable storage medium
A method of detecting falsification of software installed in an apparatus includes the steps of (a) encrypting software configuration information of the apparatus at the time of installing the software using an encryption and decryption unit specific to the apparatus, and storing the encrypted software configuration information outside the apparatus, (b) decrypting the encrypted software configuration information of the apparatus at the time of installing the software, stored outside the apparatus, using the encryption and decryption unit specific to the apparatus, and (c) determining the presence or absence of the falsification of the software by comparing the software configuration information of the apparatus at the time of installing the software obtained by step (b) and the current software configuration information of the apparatus.
US08887282B1 Techniques for protecting data in cloud computing environments
A client computer runs a communicator employed to connect to a server computer in a cloud. The communicator is updated on a regular basis to update its algorithms for processing raw data into secured data. The server computer receives and validates the secured data, and attempts to update the communicator if the secured data is invalid. The server computer may deem the client computer as being infected when the update is reinitiated a predetermined number of times. The raw data may be restructured, or encrypted using an encryption scheme where the key used for the encryption is not provided to the receiver of the data. The algorithm for data restructuring and encryption may be included in the update to the communicator. Communication between the client computer and the server computer may be on a dynamically selected channel indicated in a previous communication.
US08887281B2 System and methods for adaptive model generation for detecting intrusion in computer systems
A system and methods for detecting intrusions in the operation of a computer system comprising a sensor configured to gather information regarding the operation of the computer system, to format the information in a data record, and to transmit the data record. A database is configured to receive the data record from the sensor and to store the data record. A detection model generator is configured to request data records from the database, to generate an intrusion detection model, and to transmit the intrusion detection model to the database. A detector is configured to receive a data record from the sensor and to classify the data record in real-time as one of normal operation and an attack. A data analysis engine is configured to request data records from the database and to perform a data processing function on the data records.
US08887279B2 Distributed real-time network protection for authentication systems
Information about security events detected by a group of protected web-connected resources is centrally managed in order to detect distributed attacks and slow paced attacks by providing to a plurality of web-connected resources a deployment component which couples to a native authorization service of each web-connected resource; receiving a plurality of security event reports from one or more of the deployment components by a command and control center computer; based on collected information from the plurality of security event reports, determining a threat level indicator across the plurality of web-connected resources using one or more analyses and metrics; and transmitting the threat level indicator to each of the web-connected resources.
US08887267B2 Providing integrity verification and attestation in a hidden execution environment
In one embodiment, a processor includes a microcode storage including processor instructions to create and execute a hidden resource manager (HRM) to execute in a hidden environment that is not visible to system software. The processor may further include an extend register to store security information including a measurement of at least one kernel code module of the hidden environment and a status of a verification of the at least one kernel code module. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US08887259B1 Anonymous biometric verification
The present invention discloses an anonymous biometric verification system and method. In an embodiment of the invention, the system comprises a non-anonymous sector that retrieves biometric data (probes) by using biometric client(s). A unique identifier (“token”) is retrieved from a database that contains biographic and demographic data associated to the token, but without comprising the biographic or demographic data. The biometric data in form of template(s) along with the token are then sent via a cloud network to an anonymous sector. A query router, located at the non-anonymous sector may receive probes with the token and send them to one or more biometric query engine(s), wherein query engine(s) may either work in stripped or mirrored operation mode. Query engine(s) may search for location of template(s) in a templates database linked to a query search engine.
US08887256B2 Establishing virtual private network session using roaming credentials
Providing virtual private network (VPN) sessions or other types of secure or private access to data when a client authorized to access the data travels or otherwise roams from a home network to a partner network is contemplated. The VPN session may be established as part of or as a result of an authentication process undertaken by the client when gaining access to the partner network, such as but not necessarily limited to a home network authentication process undertaken at the partner network to authenticate the client to access partner network services.
US08887252B2 Information providing system and design information providing server
A design information providing system, which does not allow continuation of manufacturing of products unless a patent license contract is concluded, includes a terminal apparatus (40a) of a user manufacturing a product (BD player (50)) and includes a patent license issuing server (20a) issuing, to the terminal apparatus (40a), a contract certificate (60) certifying the conclusion of the contract, when a contract for a license necessary for manufacturing the BD player (50) is concluded with the user of the terminal apparatus (40a). Further, the design information providing system includes a design information providing server (an encryption key issuing server (30a)) transmitting an encryption key (80) to the terminal apparatus (40a) on condition of the confirmation of the contract certificate (60), when a request for design information (encryption key (80)) unique to the BD player (50) is transmitted from the terminal apparatus (40a).
US08887242B2 Methods and apparatus to provide layered security for interface access control
Example methods and apparatus to provide layered security for interface access control are disclosed. A disclosed example method includes receiving a connect message in a first server from a client application to access at least one server endpoint, in response to receiving the connect message, opening a session between the at least one server endpoint and the client application if the session is authorized to be opened, receiving a request from the client application to open an endpoint that provides at least one of read access, write access, or subscribe access to at least one resource, opening the endpoint within the open session after determining that the client application is authorized to access the at least one resource via the endpoint, receiving a request from the client application to assign a selection of the at least one authorized resource to the endpoint, assigning the at least one selected resource to the endpoint, and granting the client application access to the at least one resource via the endpoint.
US08887238B2 Mechanism for establishing reputation in a network environment
Traffic is obtained from a plurality of internet protocol version six addresses within a plurality of internet protocol version six blocks; and a first indication of inappropriate traffic is obtained from a first one of the addresses. Responsive thereto, a reputation score for a first given one of the blocks, containing the first one of the internet protocol version six addresses, is incremented by a first predetermined amount; and a reputation score for an adjacent block is incremented by a second predetermined amount which is less than the first predetermined amount. Traffic from the plurality of internet protocol version six addresses within the plurality of internet protocol version six blocks is passed or blocked in accordance with a policy based on the incremented reputation scores for the first block and adjacent block. Techniques for internet protocol version four (individual and network address translation aspects) are also provided.
US08887236B2 System and method for integrated service access
A method of operating a service provider system comprising receiving first traffic, determining a first traffic type of the first traffic from a plurality of traffic types, selecting the first communication link from a plurality of communication links based on the first traffic type, and transmitting the first traffic on a first communication link to a communication system.
US08887225B2 Method and apparatus for reproducing broadcast content, and method and apparatus for providing broadcast content
Provided are a method and apparatus for reproducing broadcast content in a digital television (DTV) in real time, and a method and apparatus for providing broadcast content to a DTV. In the reproducing method, reproduction of broadcast content is controlled to be temporarily stopped if an error is present in received packets constituting the content; packets received after the temporary stopping of the reproduction are stored; a errorless packet, which corresponds to a packet having the error, is obtained; and the content is reproduced using the obtained packet and the stored packets.
US08887224B2 Updating content libraries by transmitting release data
There are many boxes (e.g., set-top boxes) in a system offering media services to users. Each of the boxes maintains a library with a significant number of titles. Techniques for updating the library in each of these boxes using a transmission infrastructure are described. According to one aspect of the techniques, a service provider is provided with a high bandwidth broadcasting or multicasting capability, a release fragmented into a header and several segments is transmitted to all boxes that are respectively configured to receive a proper release package to update the library. Alternatively, separate release packages may be transmitted via different channels to the boxes, wherein each of the boxes is tuned to a proper channel to receive a proper release package.
US08887218B2 Systems and methods of adjusting bandwidth among multiple media streams
Disclosed herein are systems and method for adjusting bitrate among multiple media streams delivered on a common subscriber connection. One such method comprises receiving information describing a maximum bitrate provisioned on the subscriber connection, and receiving a plurality of media streams. Each media stream utilizes a corresponding bitrate, and the plurality of media streams has a combined bitrate. The method also comprises adjusting the bitrate of at least a portion of the plurality of media streams so that the combined bitrate is related to the maximum bitrate provisioned on the subscriber connection.
US08887215B2 Targeted high-value content in HTTP streaming video on demand
Methods and apparatus are provided for combining assets for a streaming video signal. Video assets are provided in an adaptive bit rate format. The video assets may comprise fragments of various types of video content. A stitched manifest identifying a combination of the video assets is created in response to a client request for one or more of the video assets. The stitched manifest is provided to a client and used by the client to request the combination of video assets for playback as one continuous video stream in an order specified by the stitched manifest.
US08887206B2 Device and method for rendering and delivering 3-D content
A device and method are provided for delivering three-dimensional (3-D) content. The device includes a receiving unit configured to receive a first signal containing at least two-dimensional (2-D) content, a processing unit configured to (i) determine an amount of a difference in the content in the first signal to be visualized by a left visual sensor and a right visual sensor, (ii) determine whether the amount of the difference is less than or equal to a predetermined minimum value, and to discard the signal to be visualized by one of the right and left visual sensors when the amount is determined to be less than or equal to the predetermined minimum value, and (iii) generate a second signal containing the 2-D content of the first signal and 3-D content in which the first signal to be visualized by the one of the right and left visual sensors is discarded.
US08887203B2 Multi-functional display device having a channel map and method of controlling the same
A multi-functional display device having a channel map and a method for controlling the same are disclosed herein. The multi-functional display device may include a display, an input interface, a network interface for communicating with at least one second multi-functional display device, and a controller for controlling a display of the channel map and content associated with a channel selected in the channel map. The channel map may include a first channel number associated with a broadcast channel and a channel name for the first channel, and a second channel number associated with a social network service (SNS) account for an individual or entity and an SNS channel name for the second channel.
US08887200B2 Smart catch-up for media content viewing
A method and system of providing access to related content includes a primary display that is tuned to a desired program. Information that identifies the desired program is retrieved from an electronic program guide using a content processor. A plurality of locations on a communication network are automatically searched for additional episodes of the desired program using the retrieved information via an interne interface. Links for accessing the additional episodes of the tune program are provided via a user interface display processor on a secondary display.
US08887197B2 Method and apparatus for managing advertisements using social media data
A system that incorporates teachings of the subject disclosure may include, for example, obtaining social media data associated with a plurality of end user devices of a plurality of users interacting with a social media network where the social media data includes user commentary at the social media network, determining first targeted advertising for delivery to first end user devices of a portion of the plurality of users based on an analysis of the social media data, and determining second targeted advertising for delivery during a target broadcast programming to a second end user device of a target user of the plurality of users based on an analysis of the user commentary, wherein the analysis includes identifying a comment context. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US08887196B2 System, mobile terminal and method for displaying object information in real time
A system, mobile terminal and a method for displaying object information corresponding to an image object in real time are described in this disclosure. The system includes: a TV to transmit an image frame and supplementary data for the image frame, the supplementary data including the object information; and a mobile terminal to receive the image frame and the supplementary data, and to display the object information in real time based on a position of the object displayed on the TV.
US08887194B2 Method and system for providing interactive advertisement customization
A system and method may include providing a media stream via a network, the media stream comprising one or more advertisement content segments, identifying aggregate information associated with a viewer, assigning the one or more advertisement content segments to one or more categories and a category score associated with the one or more categories, filtering the one or more advertisement content segments based at least in part on the one or more categories, the category score associated with the one or more categories and the aggregate information associated with the viewer, and outputting the filtered one or more advertisement content segments to the viewer.
US08887191B2 Methods and apparatus for identifying media using temporal signal characteristics
Methods and apparatus to identify media content using temporal signal characteristics are disclosed. An example method to identify media content includes generating a first signature based on a media content signal, the first signature comprising a plurality of first normalized features, each normalized feature corresponding to a signal peak and located at a temporal location of the signal peak in the audio signal, correlating the first signature to a reference signature comprising second normalized features to obtain an index, and determining that the first signature represents the same media content as the reference signature when the index is greater than a threshold.
US08887189B2 Methods and systems for providing synchronized display of content
Systems and methods may include receiving a device identifier that identifies a first device, the first device being capable of causing display of first content at a first display device, and communicating a synchronization request that includes the device identifier via a network. Systems and methods may further include receiving an event message from the first device via the network, the event message identifying the first content the first device is causing display at the first display device, wherein the event message is useable to synchronize second content a second device causes display at a second display device with the first content the first device is causing display at the first display device.
US08887185B2 Method and system for providing virtual co-presence to broadcast audiences in an online broadcasting system
There is provided an online broadcasting system for providing virtual co-presence to broadcast audiences. The online broadcasting system may comprise a plurality of user terminals, a user reaction processing server and a broadcast server configured to transmit broadcast program data to the user terminals. The user terminals may be configured to: display a broadcast program based on the broadcast program data; receive individual user reaction data from a user input interface; and transmit the received individual user reaction data to the broadcast server. The user reaction processing server may be configured to: receive the individual user reaction data from each of the user terminals; aggregate the individual user reaction data to create total user reaction data based on the received individual user reaction data; generate interface control data based on the total user reaction data, wherein the interface control data, when executed, is operative to cause a client application to generate output indicative of the total user reaction data; and transmit the generated interface control data to at least one of the user terminals.
US08887184B2 Systems and methods for providing remote access to interactive media guidance applications
Systems and methods for providing remote access to interactive media guidance applications are provided. In particular, the systems and methods for providing remote access to interactive media guidance applications provided herein generally relate to enhancing remote access capabilities by providing algorithms and techniques for managing and correcting disparities that may be found between program listings data used by the interactive media guidance application and the remote access server.
US08887183B2 Optical disc device and lens cleaner
An optical disc device of the present invention comprises an insertion detection optical sensor which detects insertion of an optical disc based on light emitted from a first light emitting element to a first light receiving element being blocked, and an ejection detection optical sensor provided on the downstream side in the carry-in direction to the insertion detection optical sensor to detect ejection of the optical disc based on light emitted from a second light emitting element to a second light receiving element being blocked. The optical disc device is structured such that, in a state that the optical disc is attached onto the turntable, when the light of the first light emitting element is blocked and the light of the second light emitting element is not blocked, the optical disc device recognizes that a lens cleaner is attached onto the turntable as the optical disc, and the optical disc device performs a cleaning operation.
US08887179B2 Command presentation and generation systems, methods and computer program products using logical trees
Command methods for command driven computer systems present a list of command driven computer program products in response to activation of the command method, and present a logical tree including commands and related operands and sub-operands for a command driven computer program product in response to receiving a selection of the command driven computer program product from the list of command driven computer program products. The logical tree is presented in the same format for each of the command driven computer program products. The logical tree may be generated by obtaining a text file of a reference guide for the computer program product, identifying commands for the computer program product from the text file and creating lists of dependencies of the related operands and sub-operands for the computer program product. Related computer systems, methods and computer program products are disclosed.
US08887178B1 Method to customize native operating system views using web technologies in mobile devices
Systems, methods, routines and/or techniques for customizing native operating system views using web technologies in mobile devices are described. A messaging system may be used to allow and/or facilitate communication between two or more native views, for example, via one or more software development kits (SDKs). A method may include executing, in a first native operating system view, messaging code to communicate one or more messages from the first native operating system view to a second native operating system view. The method may include executing the software development kit code to receive and/or handle the one or more messages from the first native operating system view and route and/or transmit the one or more first messages to the second native operating system view. In some embodiments, the first native operating system view is a WebView and the second native operating system view is a VideoView.
US08887177B2 System and method for automated content distribution objects
Provided is a system and method for centralizing common messaging functionality across a plurality of heterogeneous Mobile data processing System (MS) applications, and for synergistically bringing new messaging functionality to those applications. New synergistic presentation/messaging capability is provided with distributable presentation objects in areas of Out-Going Messages (OGMs), Out-going Caller Messages (OCMs), Confirmation Of delivery Messages (COMs) and ADvertising messages (ADs). OGMs include messages which are played to callers in a phone call recording system. OCMs include messages that can be left automatically to a phone call recording system by a caller. COMs include messages that are automatically sent based on a delivery. ADs include messages for conveying advertising information. Different message types and messaging objects are automatically distributed for a variety of triggering events. In a preferred embodiment, the Location Based eXchange method and system is leveraged.
US08887170B2 High performance locks
Systems and methods of enhancing computing performance may provide for detecting a request to acquire a lock associated with a shared resource in a multi-threaded execution environment. A determination may be made as to whether to grant the request based on a context-based lock condition. In one example, the context-based lock condition includes a lock redundancy component and an execution context component.
US08887165B2 Real time system task configuration optimization system for multi-core processors, and method and program
Disclosed is an automatic optimization system capable of searching for an allocation with a good performance from among a plurality of task allocations which can be scheduled in a system of a development target configured with a plurality of periodic tasks. A task allocation optimization system for a multi-core processor including a plurality of cores calculates a response time of each of a plurality of tasks which are core allocation decision targets, and outputs an accumulative value of the calculated response time as an evaluation function value which is an index representing excellence of a task allocation. A task allocation from which a good evaluation function value is calculated is searched based on the evaluation function value. A candidate having a good evaluation function value among a plurality of searched task allocation candidates is held.
US08887163B2 Task scheduling based on dependencies and resources
An example system identifies a set of tasks as being designated for execution, and the set of tasks includes a first task and a second task. The example system accesses task dependency data that corresponds to the second task and indicates that the first task is to be executed prior to the second task. The example system, based on the task dependency data, generates a task dependency model of the set of tasks. The dependency model indicates that the first task is to be executed prior to the second task. The example system schedules an execution of the first task, which is scheduled to use a particular data processing resource. The scheduling is based on the dependency model.
US08887152B1 Android application virtual environment
The behavior of an installed application within the Android device is modified. The program code is modified to allow a security application to load and run the application within its own context. The modified program code is repacked into a modified APK file, executed within the context of the security application. A component within a target application includes APIs for starting other components. These APIs are modified to use a new intent object which points to a proxy component. A modified target application is executed. The security application loads the target application into memory without installing it. The security application includes a component of each type and creates a proxy component instance for each component in the target application. A proxy component under control of the security application is created for each component within the target application. The target application is executed under the control of the security application.
US08887148B1 System and method having restore operation for updating a medical device
Embodiments described herein include methods and/or systems for updating a medical device. Embodiments include medical devices which are configured for updates in response to various events including connection of a peripheral device to the medical device, a user initiated event, or based on received recommendations.
US08887142B2 Loop control flow diversion
Loop control flow diversion supports thread synchronization, garbage collection, and other situations involving suspension of long-running loops. Divertible loops have a loop body, a loop top, an indirection cell containing a loop top address, and a loop jump instruction sequence which references the indirection cell. In normal execution, control flows through the indirection cell to the loop top. After the indirection cell is altered, however, execution flow is diverted to a point away from the loop top. Operations such as garbage collection are performed while the loop (and hence the thread(s) using the loop) is thus diverted. The kernel or another thread then restores the loop top address into the indirection cell, and execution flow again continues through the restored indirection cell to the loop top.
US08887138B2 Debugging in a dataflow programming environment
A dataflow program defining actors that pass tokens from one to another via connections is processed by causing one or more processors to access and execute instructions of the dataflow program. As instructions of the dataflow program are being executed, a first set of trace records is created that represents a sequence of events (e.g., token production/consumption, actor state change, or action firing). A first subset of the trace records is displayed and one of these is selected. The first set is processed to identify, based on definitions specified by the dataflow program, a second set of trace records, of which a subset is displayed.
US08887133B2 Bi-directional communication between change management tool and implementation tools
An automated change management method and system has a change tool that associates a first identifier with each request to change the configuration of an Information Technology infrastructure. Tasks are configured to implement the change, and the change tool associates a second identifier with each of the tasks. The change tool sends task instructions to implementation tools to perform the tasks where each of the task instructions includes the first and second identifiers. The change tool receives responses to the task instructions where each response includes the first and second identifiers and an implementation result. The change tool maps/associates each of the implementation results to the associated change request and task based on the first and second identifiers. The associated results can be made available to a user for review, interpretation, etc. and can be used to drive subsequent processing by other task in the change process.
US08887130B2 Software design and development in a service oriented environment
The system and method provide for software design and development that result in applications that are service-oriented. The systems provide for architecture development, integration, and maintenance using an SOA approach, and in particular an approach that provides for service-oriented development of applications (SODA). Such systems include numerous beneficial and advantageous features, including ways to define requirements and ways to design and develop applications.
US08887125B1 Systems and methods for dynamic artefact substitution
Methods, machine-readable media, apparatuses and systems are provided to provide an application platform that provides the ability to build applications comprising a set of artifacts. The platform provides the ability to dynamically discover, load and execute the various artifact instances that comprise a an application according to a variable set of contextual parameters, without the context being coded into the application model during its design and development phase. This means that arbitrarily small or large parts of an application may vary in execution according to the run-time context.
US08887119B2 Method and apparatus for current limit test for high power switching regulator
A method can reuse at least one pin in demultiplexing (demuxing) a voltage from a pin. The method can be used to set an accurate current limit threshold in a design for test (DFT) phase and, thus, to accurately set a trimming code of a current limiter. The method uses the property that a power MOSFET has almost a same conductive resistance at a large drain current. Thus, the current limit threshold can be set according to an accurate drain-to-source voltage Vds at a small current sink that is less than a maximum current that ATE is able to provide. An accurate voltage Vds can be measured through Kelvin sensing drain and source pins of the power MOSFET, which are connected to a current sense circuit.
US08887102B2 Method of determining input pattern and computer readable storage medium
A method of determining input pattern is adapted to be implemented on an electronic apparatus equipped with a touch panel and includes the steps of: detecting a plurality of boundary points between an input pattern inputted through the touch panel and a circumscribed polygon of the input pattern, detecting an area ratio of a polygon defined by the boundary points to the circumscribed polygon, and determining the shape of the input pattern at least according to the area ratio. The present invention also provides a computer readable storage medium having a program stored therein. When the program is executed which enables an electronic apparatus equipped with a touch panel to determine the shape and/or direction of an input pattern inputted through the touch panel.
US08887100B1 Multi-dimensional hierarchical browsing
Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that accesses information using multiple hierarchies. During operation, the system receives a specifier for a first location in a first hierarchy and a specifier for a second location in a second hierarchy. Next, the system retrieves information, if such information exists, from an intersection between the first location in the first hierarchy and the second location in the second hierarchy. Finally, the system presents the retrieved information to a user.
US08887098B2 Computer Graphics generating apparatus, Computer Graphics generating method, and program
Disclosed herein is a generating apparatus including a display controller configured, on the basis of computer graphics description data for use in creating a computer graphics virtual space necessary for generating a computer graphics image, to display a plurality of element descriptors representative of a plurality of elements arranged in the computer graphics virtual space; and a specification information generator configured to generate specification information for specifying a parameter for defining an element corresponding to an element descriptor by a selecting operation by a user from among the displayed plurality of element descriptors as a parameter subject to adjustment that is adjusted by an adjusting operation by the user.
US08887095B2 Recommending digital content based on implicit user identification
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for recommending digital content to a user of a digital content application based on continually learned patterns of behavior. Based on metrics collected from a current session of the digital content application, properties associated with one or more users interacting with the application are inferred. The inferred properties are matched against previously defined patterns of behavior to identify digital content that could be presented to the one or more users for optional selection.
US08887087B2 Column layout
In one embodiment, a method is illustrated as including displaying an editing window, the editing window being a Graphical User Interface (GUI) used to design an application interface, associating a User Interface (UI) element with a layout element, and generating metadata, the metadata containing data illustrating the association between the UI element and the layout element. Further, another embodiment is illustrated as including receiving a service request relating to an application, the service request including a first set of rendering data illustrating a display area within which a first GUI relating to the application will be displayed, retrieving metadata, the metadata illustrating layout elements and associated UI elements relating to the first GUI, retrieving display logic associated with the metadata, retrieving business logic associated with the metadata, and generating the first GUI, wherein the first GUI is generated using the metadata, display logic and business logic.
US08887081B2 Touch display unlock mechanism
An unlock system for a computer such as a tablet. The screen of the tablet can be automatically locked after time were based on an action. Once locked, the contents of this screen are blocked by the locking screen which can be a blank screen or screen which shows status parts. Areas on the locking screen are defined, within which the user can touch the locking screen and drag it to the opposite side. During the time of dragging, the items underneath, showing the actual content of the screen, are revealed. In one embodiment, the unlock action may automatically continue after a certain point on the screen has been reached.
US08887080B2 Indicating status of application program with icons
A computing device (100) and computing environment displays a graphical user interface (110) that presents a plurality of icons (260). Each icon is related to a different aspect of a resident software application. The icons are used to indicate the status of their associated aspects of the software application. Changes of state of the aspects of the software application represented by the displayed icons are determined and used to update the displayed icons so that the displayed icons present current status information concerning the associated aspects of the software application.
US08887076B2 Software user interface allowing logical expression to be expressed as a flowchart
Methods and systems for providing a user interface for building a graphical flowchart that represents a database query. One method includes presenting a plurality of flowchart step types, wherein each of the flowchart step types is associated with a different logical expression format. The method also includes receiving a selection of one of the plurality of flowchart step types, presenting at least one expression option for the logical expression format of the selected flowchart step type, and receiving at least one input for the expression option. The method further includes generating a graphical flowchart step associated with a logical expression, wherein the logical expression is based on the at least one input and the logical expression format of the selected flowchart step type. The method also includes displaying the graphical flowchart step and automatically generating a database query corresponding to the logical expression associated with the displayed graphical flowchart step.
US08887075B2 System and method for device skinning
A plugin for an Integrated Design Environment is provided, including a set of commands for defining an appearance of a UI design window in the Integrated Design Environment. The appearance of the application design window simulates a display screen of a portable electronic device and the set of commands being related to one type of portable electronic device.
US08887074B2 Rigging parameters to create effects and animation
A media editing application is provided that enables an author-user to create a rig graphically. A rig includes a group of snapshots of one or more parameters at different instances of time. A rig is created by selecting one or more objects and creating snapshots of one or more parameters of the selected objects to create an effect. In some embodiments animation is added to some of the snapshots. Some embodiments provide an edit mode where all parameters that are changed during the edit mode are automatically added to the current snapshot at the end of editing mode.
US08887072B2 Method of managing a set of virtual environment control entities, device, and corresponding computer program product
A method is provided for managing a set of entities, each controlling a virtual environment in which user representations evolve. The method includes the following steps: monitoring at least one characteristic of each of the entities and/or at least one characteristic of a corresponding virtual environment; proposing to transfer and/or transferring at least one of the user representations from a first virtual environment to a second virtual environment, as a function of the characteristic or characteristics monitored.
US08887069B2 Virtual meeting place system and method
A virtual meeting place system is disclosed. The online virtual meeting place facilitates initiating, scheduling, or spontaneously organizing an online discussion or meeting, organizing the discussion into active and passive participants, limiting or eliminate participation of selected participants and soliciting, receiving and answering questions. The system is configurable to allow for customization based upon the social protocols or preferences of meeting participants and may present different user interfaces based upon participant identity, meeting topic or meeting format.
US08887059B2 Method and apparatus of locally controlling display content of a remote system
A method and apparatus of controlling the viewable content of a remote computer system on a local computer system is disclosed. The method may include establishing a remote control session over a network to the remote computer system and accessing the viewable content currently displayed on the remote computer system. The method may also include reformatting the viewable content to change a size of the viewable content and displaying the reformatted viewable content on the local computer system while the remote computer system and the local computer system are communicatively connected.
US08887057B2 Searching channel path display of a video network
A device may provide for display equipment associated with a channel path of a video network, receive selection of one of the equipment, provide for display the selected equipment, receive selection of a port of the selected equipment, and provide for display other equipment of the video network connected to the selected port.
US08887054B2 Application selection user interface
An apparatus includes a builder, a template engine, and an assembler. The template engine is operable to identify a reference template associated with application selection. The assembler is configured to assemble a request from the identified reference template and state data indicated by the reference template. The builder is configured to process a user interface description retrieved using the request to cause the display of a user interface having one or more objects each associated with an application available from a network service, the applications having been selected according to the state data.
US08887052B1 Presentation remote control
In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods for accessing a presentation stored on a remote server with a first computing device that is connected to the remote server over a network. The first computing device communicates with the network over a wireless connection. The first computing device is used to cause a second computing device to display the presentation. The second computing device is connected to the remote server over a network. The display of the presentation is substantially controlled with communication between the first computing device and the second computing device. The communication occurs only through the remote server.
US08887050B1 Video mapping, storage, and retrieval system and method
The positions of target and a video surveillance sensor are plotted on a computer map display. An icon representing the target and its movement with time is shown on the map, as is the movement of the sensor. The mapping facility preferably is used together with a logger for applying electronic tags and displaying live feeds and stored images of the target, and a timeline device for quickly locating stored images having desired attributes.
US08887048B2 Media data presented with time-based metadata
Methods and systems for generating and presenting metadata during presentation of a media file are provided. The method includes identifying the media file having content to be played by a media player and identifying metadata. The method associates the identified metadata to specific content of the media file and at a time code of play of the media file. Then, a tag is generated containing the time code and reference to the identified metadata. The tag is linked to the media file, so that the media player identifies the tag during the play of the media file and presents the identified metadata upon reaching the time code of play, along with the presentation of content of the media file. Systems and computer readable media are also provided.
US08887046B2 Whiteboard presentation of interactive and expandable modular content
In one aspect, described herein is a method for creating an interactive expandable multimedia tutorial. The method includes receiving a plurality of tutorial elements, generating a first user interface including a plurality of regions that correspond to each of the plurality of tutorial elements, presenting the first user interface on a display device, receiving a request to access the one or more additional tutorial elements, accessing the one or more additional tutorial elements, generating a second user interface comprising one or more regions that correspond to each of the accessed one or more additional tutorial elements, and presenting the second user interface on the display device, wherein the second user interface is displayed simultaneously with the first user interface, and wherein at least a portion of the first user interface remains visible to the user to enable navigation between the second user interface and the first user interface.
US08887036B2 Automatic linking of documents
A document publishing system. Documents can be automatically linked. Links are automatically created within a first document to other documents, or to locations within the first document and then modified as necessary depending on a destination location to which the first document is moved.
US08887035B2 Capturing structured data about previous events from users of a social networking system
The invention provides a display interface in a social networking system that enables the presentation of information related to a user in a timeline or map view. The system accesses information about a user of a social networking system, including both data about the user and social network activities related to the user. The system then selects one or more of these pieces of data and/or activities from a certain time period and gathers them into timeline units based on their relatedness and their relevance to users. These timeline units are ranked by relevance to the user, and are used to generate a timeline or map view for the user containing visual representations of the timeline units organized by location or time. The timeline or map view is then provided to other users of the social networking system that wish to view information about the user.
US08887033B1 Channel quality monitoring and method for qualifying a storage channel using an iterative decoder
Monitors, architectures, systems and methods for determining one or more quality characteristics of a storage channel. The monitor generally includes an iterative decoder configured to decode data from the storage channel and generate information relating to a quality metric of the storage channel and/or the iterative decoder, a memory configured to store a threshold value for the quality metric, and a comparator configured to compare the threshold value with a measured value of the quality metric. The monitor enables accurate determination of storage channel quality without use of conventional Reed-Solomon metrics.
US08887032B1 Defect detection and correction via monitoring of syndromes and bit flips in decoder
A system for reading data from a data storage device includes a channel detector configured to detect bits of digital data corresponding to the data read from the storage device, and, for each of the bits of digital data, determine a probability that each of the bits is a 0 or a 1. A decoder module is configured to generate confidence indicators associated with a first subset of the digital data. The confidence indicators include the probability, received from the channel detector, that each of the bits in the first subset of the digital data is a 0 or a 1, and/or bit flip data indicating a number of times each of the bits in the first subset of the digital data was flipped during decoding. A digital defect detection module is configured to selectively identify the first subset of the digital data as defective based on the confidence indicators.
US08887025B2 Techniques for storing data in stuck memory cells
A data storage system includes a memory circuit and a control circuit. The control circuit is operable to receive data bits provided for storage in memory cells of the memory circuit. The control circuit is operable to compare each of the data bits provided for storage in a corresponding one of the memory cells having a stuck-at fault to a value of the stuck-at fault, and to invert each of the data bits having a different value than the value of the stuck-at fault of the corresponding one of the memory cells to generate encoded data bits. The control circuit is operable to generate redundant bits that indicate the encoded data bits to invert to regenerate the data bits.
US08887022B2 Reliable data transmission with reduced bit error rate
A data transmission system includes at least one transmission line. A sender is configured to send data frames to the at least one transmission line and a recipient is configured to receive the data frames from the at least one transmission line. The sender and the recipient are both configured to determine a check sum based on a plurality of corresponding data frames that are sent to and, respectively, received from the at least one transmission line. A check sum comparing unit is configured to receive and to compare the check sum determined by the sender and the corresponding check sum determined by the recipient. The check sum comparing unit is also configured to signal a transmission error or initiate a safety function when the check sums compared are not equal.
US08887018B2 Masking circuit removing unknown bit from cell in scan chain
Electronic scan circuitry includes a decompressor (510), a plurality of scan chains (520.i) fed by the decompressor (510), a scan circuit (502, 504) coupled to the plurality of scan chains (520.i) to scan them in and out, a masking circuit (590) fed by the scan chains (520.i), and a scannable masking qualification circuit (550, 560, 580) coupled to the masking circuit (590), the masking qualification circuit (550, 560, 580) scannable by scan-in of bits by the decompressor (510) along with scan-in of the scan chains (520.i), and the scannable masking qualification circuit (550, 560, 580) operable to hold such scanned-in bits upon scan-out of the scan chains through the masking circuit (590). Other scan circuitry, processes, circuits, devices and systems are also disclosed.
US08887016B1 IC and a method of testing a transceiver of the IC
An integrated circuit (IC) is provided. The IC includes a transceiver, a boundary scan chain and a plurality of routable pathways. The transceiver includes an interconnection coupling circuit components. The transceiver receives data and transfers the received data through the interconnection. The received data is utilized to test the interconnection between the circuit components. The transceiver deserializes the data once the data completes its propagation through the interconnection. The boundary scan chain receives and shifts the deserialized data from the transceiver and transfers the shifted deserialized data out of the IC. The shifting is performed when asserted with an instruction of an Input Output (IO) standard. The plurality of routable pathways provides a pathway between the transceiver and the boundary scan chain so that the deserialized data may propagate.
US08887013B2 Mapping of random defects in a memory device
A memory device includes a memory array with random defective memory cells. The memory array is organized into rows and columns with a row and column identifying a memory location of a memory cell of the memory array. The memory device includes a row address device and a column address device and is operative to use a grouping of either the row or the column addresses to manage the random defective memory cells by mapping the memory location of a defective memory cell to an alternate memory location.
US08887012B2 Method and apparatus for saving and restoring soft repair data
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for saving and restoring soft repair information. One embodiment of the method includes storing soft repair information for one or more cache arrays implemented in a processor core in a memory element outside of the processor core in response to determining that a voltage supply to the processor core is to be disconnected.
US08887009B1 Computer systems and methods for predictive performance management of data transactions
Systems and methods are disclosed for monitoring and managing data transactions, such as SQL transactions. In certain examples, a management subsystem generates an alert identifying degrading database transactions to facilitate preventative tuning or other maintenance. In particular, a monitor module tracks performance measurements (e.g., logical reads) of select transactions. A modeler correlates the performance measurements and assigns first performance model(s) to represent the performance measurements and predicted performance measurements of a particular transaction. A trend change module detects a significant change in a trend and/or variance of the performance measurements and can cause the modeler module to generate a second performance model to represent at least a portion of the performance measurements and the predicted performance measurements of the particular transaction. An interface module triggers an alert when the second performance model indicates that the predicted performance measurements of the particular transaction are degrading at or above a threshold rate.
US08887006B2 Proactive failure handling in database services
Embodiments are directed to predicting the health of a computer node using health report data and to proactively handling failures in database services. In an embodiment, a computer system monitors various health indicators for multiple nodes in a database cluster. The computer system accesses stored health indicators that provide a health history for the database cluster nodes. The computer system then generates a health status based on the monitored health factors and the health history. The generated health status indicates the likelihood that the node will be healthy within a specified future time period. The computer system then leverages the generated health status to handle current or predicted failures. The computer system also presents the generated health status to a user or other entity.
US08887001B2 Trace data priority selection
An integrated circuit 2 is provided with a data source 6 in the form of a processor executing program instructions connected via a bus interconnect 16 to a trace output device 8. The trace output device 8 is memory mapped. Different memory addresses that are mapped to the trace output device 8 are associated with different priority levels. Trace data written to at least one memory address has a first level of priority in which it is either accepted or the transfer is stalled until the data can be processed by the trace output device 8. Another level of priority associated with a different memory address is such that the data is always accepted but is discarded if the trace output device 8 does not have the ability to process, e.g. store that data at that time.
US08886996B2 Debugging device and method for performing a debugging process to a target system
A debugging device for performing a debugging process through an electronic device external connector system is provided. The debugging device performs the debugging process to a target system, and the device comprises a first external connector, a switch, and a debugging module. The first external connector is connected to the external port of the target system. The switch is connected to the first external connector, and the switch chooses to activate the debugging process. The debugging module is connected to the switch, and the debugging module receives a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) signal provided by the target system.
US08886987B2 Data processing unit and a method of processing data
A data processing unit has a time information provider for processing a clock or a strobe signal, configured to provide a digitized clock or strobe time information on the basis of the clock or strobe signal and at least one data extraction unit, coupled to the time information provider and configured to select data from a sequence of data samples of a data signal depending on the digitized clock or strobe time information.
US08886977B2 Data processing apparatus, data processing method, and storage medium for communicating with external apparatus
A data processing apparatus includes a control unit configured to control data processing, and a communication unit configured to communicate with other apparatuses. The control unit determines, before the control unit shifts to a predetermined power-saving state, a communication speed of the communication unit to communicate with the other apparatuses when the control unit is in the power-saving state, based on an amount of packets received by the communication unit, and sets the determined communication speed for the communication unit. The communication unit communicates with the other apparatuses at the set communication speed, when the control unit is in the power-saving state.
US08886975B2 Method and system for managing power consumption utilizing inter-gateway communication
Aspects of a method and system for managing power consumption utilizing inter-gateway communication are provided. In this regard, a first broadband gateway residing in a first location may determine past, present, and/or expected power consumption of the first location. The gateway may receive, from one or more other broadband gateways residing in one or more other locations, information that enables determining past, present, and/or expected power consumption of the other location(s). The gateway may control power consumption of the first location by controlling a state of operation of devices residing in the first location. The gateway may determine aggregate power consumption of the first location and the other location(s). The gateway may control power consumption of the first location by enabling operation of one or more devices during periods of lower aggregate power consumption and disabling operation the devices during periods of higher aggregate power consumption.
US08886973B2 System employing signaling at a powered communications interface to modify or override a power-withholding policy at a power-sourcing equipment
A power-sourcing equipment (PSE) has a powered communications interface to which a powered device (PD) is coupled. The PD presents a valid PD signature indicating that the PD is attached and capable of receiving normal operating power from the PSE. Per a power-withholding policy, the PSE operates in a power-withholding state to withhold the normal operating power notwithstanding the valid PD signature, and monitors for a signal via the powered communications interface indicating that the normal operating power should be delivered to the PD. The signal may be an alternative signature generated by a user-activated switch for example. In response to receiving the signal in the power-withholding state, the PSE enters a power-providing state in which it provides the normal operating power to the PD notwithstanding the power-withholding policy. An intermediate device (dongle) may be employed to generate the signal.
US08886969B2 Input/output device power reduction and optimization by enablement or disablement of an external circuit coupled to the input/output device
Embodiments of the present invention provide a processor design that enables controller and I/O device power reduction and optimization. In a typical embodiment, a processing core is coupled to a set (e.g., three) of I/O blocks. The processing core provides for selective activation and/or deactivation of any of the I/O blocks. Two of the I/O blocks are coupled to individual voltage I/O components as well as individual external circuits. In one embodiment, the individual external circuits are coupled to individual voltage control components.
US08886952B1 Method of controlling a transaction
A method of securely authenticating a user's response to a challenge request before completing a transaction is disclosed. When a user wishes to complete a transaction, an image is projected onto the user's face. The user reads the image in a mirror and responds accordingly. If the user identifies the correct image, the transaction is allowed to proceed.
US08886943B2 Authentication of a vehicle-external device
A method for authenticating a vehicle-external device in a bus system of a motor vehicle comprising control units is provided. In order to effectively and inexpensively prevent a sequence control system that is stored in a control unit from being manipulated, an authentication device is provided in the bus system. The authentication device transmits an authentication request to the vehicle-external device. The vehicle-external device signs the authentication request with a secret key of an asymmetric pair of keys, such as a pair of public keys, and transmits the signed authentication request or exclusively the signature to the authentication device. The authentication device determines a signature of the authentication request using the same algorithm as the vehicle-external device, and decodes the signature transmitted by the vehicle-external device using the public key which is complementary to the secret key, and compares the determined signature with the transmitted signature.
US08886940B2 Hash function using a card shuffling process
In the computer data security field, a cryptographic hash function process embodied in a computer system and which is typically keyless, but is highly secure. The process is based on the type of chaos introduction exhibited by a game process such as the well known shuffling of a deck of playing cards. Computation of the hash value (digest) is the result of executing in a model (such as computer code or logic circuitry) a game algorithm that models the actual game such as a playing card shuffling algorithm using the message as an input to the algorithm, then executing the card shuffling algorithm on the input. A state (order) of the modeled deck of cards after a shuffle (or multiple shuffles) gives the hash digest value.
US08886931B2 Key sharing system, communication terminal, management device, key sharing method, and computer program
In a case where another user's communication terminal (nTE113) departs from a group, user's communication terminal (TEb14) updates encryption information, using the terminal individual information of only the communication terminals (nTE213 and nTE313) which remain in the group (PNy). User's communication terminal (TEb14) encrypts the PN-shared key (KPNy), using the updated encryption information. User's communication terminal (TEb14) transmits the encrypted shared key information obtained from this encryption to a management device (PNSP11), and updates the encrypted shared key information stored in the management device (PNSP11).
US08886929B2 Generating a chain of trust for a virtual endpoint
A method includes generating a chain of trust for a virtual endpoint. The virtual endpoint is associated with a layered architecture that includes layers, which include a physical layer. For each layer, a code image of a process of the layer is measured before the process is loaded to form a node of the chain of trust.
US08886928B2 Method and system for device authentication
An information processing device, which is used by a user and includes a storage device, encodes target information required for a device authentication by a server by using device-specific information or information based on the device-specific information as an encryption key, and stores the encoded target information. The information processing device uses a decryption key that corresponds to the encryption key used in the generation of the stored encoded target information to decode the encoded target information, and sends the decoded target information to the server. The server receives the target information from the information processing device, and determines whether or not the received target information is correct.
US08886927B2 Method, apparatus and system for preventing DDoS attacks in cloud system
A method, an apparatus and a system for preventing DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks in a cloud system. The method for preventing DDoS attacks in a cloud system includes: monitoring, by a protection node in a cloud system, data traffic input into virtual machines, where the cloud system includes the protection node and multiple virtual machines, and data streams communicated between the virtual machines pass through the protection node; extracting data streams to be input into virtual machines if it is detected that the data traffic input into the virtual machines is abnormal; sending the extracted data streams to a traffic cleaning apparatus for cleaning; receiving the data streams cleaned by the traffic cleaning apparatus; and inputting the cleaned data streams into the virtual machines. The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure can effectively prevent DDoS attacks between virtual machines in the cloud system.
US08886912B2 Methods and apparatus for reallocating addressable spaces within memory devices
Integrated circuit systems include a non-volatile memory device (e.g, flash EEPROM device) and a memory processing circuit. The memory processing circuit is electrically coupled to the non-volatile memory device. The memory processing circuit is configured to reallocate addressable space within the non-volatile memory device. This reallocation is performed by increasing a number of physical addresses within the non-volatile memory device that are reserved as redundant memory addresses, in response to a capacity adjust command received by the memory processing circuit.
US08886911B2 Dynamic memory cache size adjustment in a memory device
Methods for dynamic memory cache size adjustment, enabling dynamic memory cache size adjustment, memory devices, and memory systems are disclosed. One such method for dynamic memory cache size adjustment determines available memory space in a memory array and adjusts a size of a memory cache in the memory array responsive to the available memory space.
US08886899B1 Managing memory requests based on priority
Managing access to an external memory in a computing system comprising one or more cores includes: receiving memory requests to access a memory at a memory controller coupled to at least one of the cores; assigning, by the memory controller, respective priorities to the memory requests, the priorities being based on priority configuration information; providing access, by the memory controller, to the memory based on the memory requests according to the assigned priorities. Messages are received at the memory controller to modify the priority configuration information.
US08886892B2 Memory module and method employing a multiplexer to replace a memory device
A memory module including memory devices, a spare memory device, a multiplexing unit, and a memory buffer is provided. The multiplexing unit is coupled with each of the memory devices and the spare memory device, while the memory buffer is coupled with the multiplexing unit. The memory buffer includes a serial interface over which commands are received from a memory controller. The memory buffer is configured to process the commands and provide the memory controller access to the memory device through the multiplexing unit in response to the commands. Also, in response to at least one of the commands, the memory buffer is configured to direct the multiplexing unit to couple the spare memory device to the memory buffer in place of one of the memory devices for at least a next access of the memory devices.
US08886891B2 Systems and methods for managing memory core surface
Accessing a shared buffer can include receiving an identifier associated with a buffer from a sending process, requesting one or more attributes corresponding to the buffer based on the received identifier, mapping at least a first page of the buffer in accordance with the one or more requested attributes, and accessing an item of data stored in the buffer by the sending process. The identifier also can comprise a unique identifier. Further, the identifier can be passed to one or more other processes. Additionally, the one or more requested attributes can include at least one of a pointer to a memory location and a property describing the buffer.
US08886890B2 Adaptive configuration of cache
A computer-implemented method for adaptively configuring a cache includes: implementing a cache adaptation agent in a system that has multiple applications, the system including a memory and a disk storage, wherein the system creates a cache in the memory for use by each of the applications; monitoring, by the cache adaptation agent, the cache in use by at least one of the applications, the monitoring covering at least a size of the cache used by the application, how many objects are in the application's cache, and sizes of the objects in the application's cache; and configuring, by the cache adaptation agent and based on the monitoring, at least one of the cache and system behavior regarding at least one of the applications.
US08886889B2 Methods and apparatus for reusing snoop responses and data phase results in a bus controller
Methods and apparatus are provided for reusing snoop responses and data phase results in a bus controller. A bus controller receives an incoming bus transaction BTR1 corresponding to an incoming cache transaction CTR1 for an entry in at least one cache; issues a snoop request with a cache line address of the incoming bus transaction BTR1 for the entry to a plurality of cache controllers; collects at least one snoop response from the plurality of cache controllers; broadcasts a combined snoop response to the plurality of cache controllers, wherein the combined snoop response is a combination of the snoop responses from the plurality of cache controllers; and broadcasts cache line data from a source cache for the entry during a data phase to the plurality of cache controllers, wherein a subsequent cache transaction CTR2 for the entry is processed based on the broadcast combined snoop response and the broadcast cache line data.
US08886888B2 Storage system
In order to enhance the accuracy of problem analysis in a disk subsystem, the present invention suspends system trace and writing of system trace information to a storage area at the timing of occurrence of a problem. The suspension of system trace and the writing of system trace information to the storage area is executed not only in the disk subsystem where the problem failure has occurred, but also in all the other connected disk subsystems. Then, a maintenance terminal is used to collect dump information including the system trace information.
US08886883B1 System and method for improving cache performance
A method, computer program product, and computing system for identifying compressed content within a first cache system to a data array associated with the first cache system. Related content is located on the data array that is associated with the compressed content on the first cache system and it is determined whether the related content on the data array is compressible.
US08886879B2 TCAM action updates
Systems, and methods, including executable instructions and/or logic thereon are provided for ternary content addressable memory (TCAM) updates. A TCAM system includes a TCAM matching array, a TCAM action array that specifies actions that are taken upon a match in the TCAM array, and a TCAM driver that provides a programmable interface to the TCAM matching array and the TCAM action array. Program instructions are executed by the TCAM driver to add a divert object which encompasses actions associated with the TCAM actions array and to apply the divert object to update action fields in the TCAM action array, without changing the relative order of entries in the TCAM matching array, while hardware is simultaneously using the entries.
US08886877B1 In-situ block folding for nonvolatile memory
In a nonvolatile memory, hybrid blocks are initially written with only lower page data. The hybrid blocks later have middle and upper page data written. For high speed writes, data is written to a hybrid block and two or more Single Level Cell (SLC) blocks. The data from the SLC blocks are copied to the hybrid block at a later time in a folding operation.
US08886876B2 Protecting groups of memory cells in a memory device
Methods for memory block protection and memory devices are disclosed. One such method for memory block protection includes programming protection data to protection bytes diagonally across different word lines of a particular memory block (e.g., Boot ROM). The protection data can be retrieved by an erase verify operation that can be performed at power-up of the memory device.
US08886874B1 System and method for low-latency addressing in flash memory
A system for operating a flash memory includes a memory controller in communication with a processor. The memory controller includes a memory read access command receiver that receives a memory read access command from the processor. The memory read access command includes a memory cell address of a memory cell to be accessed for the execution of the memory read accessed command. The memory cell address includes a current sector address and a sector specific memory cell address. The flash memory is provided with either both the current sector address and the sector specific memory cell address or only the sector specific memory cell address for generating the memory cell address.
US08886871B2 Apparatus and method of page program operation for memory devices with mirror back-up of data
An apparatus and method of page program operation is provided. When performing a page program operation with a selected memory device, a memory controller loads the data into the page buffer of one selected memory device and also into the page buffer of another selected memory device in order to store a back-up copy of the data. In the event that the data is not successfully programmed into the memory cells of the one selected memory device, then the memory controller recovers the data from the page buffer of the other memory device. Since a copy of the data is stored in the page buffer of the other memory device, the memory controller does not need to locally store the data in its data storage elements.
US08886865B1 Virtual machine image management using delta trees
Redo logs are used to facilitate efficient cloning of virtual machines. When a virtual machine with a virtual hard disk is to be cloned, two redo logs are created, both of which are linked to the virtual hard disk. The virtual machine being cloned is then linked to one redo log, and a newly created virtual machine is linked to the other. Each time an additional virtual machine is created, two new redo logs are created and linked to the end of the disk chain. The parent and newly created virtual machine are each linked to one of the new redo logs.
US08886863B2 Handy terminal for identifying a connected-to cradle based on a network terminal address thereof, and non-transitory computer readable medium
There is provided a handy terminal connected to a cradle in a removable manner, wherein the cradle has a communication function and is connected to a network. The handy terminal includes: a determining unit configured to determine whether or not the handy terminal is connected to the cradle; an identifying unit configured to identify the cradle when the determining unit determines that the handy terminal is connected to the cradle; and an address setting unit configured to set a network terminal address for identifying the handy terminal on the network, depending on the identified cradle.
US08886854B2 Data transfer device and storage device
A data transfer device includes a transmitter, a receiver, and a monitor. The transmitter transmits data by non-handshake communication, and the receiver receives the data transmitted from the transmitter. Further, the monitor is provided separately from the receiver, and monitors a size of data received by the receiver to notify the transmitter of a result of monitoring.
US08886843B2 Storage apparatus and method of controlling the same
A storage apparatus 10 includes a communication control processor 11 that is a processor configured to control communications with a host apparatus 3, and plurality of main processors 12 each configured to perform an I/O process on a storage drive 171 according to an I/O request received from the host apparatus 3. The storage apparatus 10 manages data to be stored or that has been stored in the storage drive 171 in accordance with the CKD format. The storage apparatus 10 distributes the I/O process to the plurality of main processors 12 in units of the data fields on basis of the operation rates of the respective main processors 12, information on a C field, a K field, and a D field that are data fields forming a record of data targeted by the I/O process and managed in CKD format, and an I/O load indicator being a load indicator of the I/O process currently running on each of the main processors.
US08886836B2 Providing a multi-column newsfeed of content on a social networking system
News feed stories are ranked so that some stories appear above other stories for users of a social networking system. These “top” news stories are selected based on a ranking algorithm that incorporates an analysis of affinities for interests, users, and entities in the social networking system based on user interactions as well as story layout dimensions. The top news stories are presented in a multiple-column format, such as a grid format. Top news stories may be presented higher or in a more prominent placement among one or more columns in the story layout as compared to other news stories. The ranking of the top new news stories may change after a top news story is viewed. The multiple-column newsfeed enables a more visually pleasant placement of targeted advertisements on the social networking system.
US08886830B2 Adaptive routing of content requests using multiple anycast addresses
A system includes a plurality of cache servers and a domain name server. Each of the cache servers is configured to respond to a content request. The plurality of cache servers is divided into a plurality of subsets and configured to respond to an anycast address for each subset to which the cache server belongs. The domain name server is configured to receive a request from a requestor for a cache server address, identify an anycast address for a largest available subset, and provide the anycast address of the largest available subset to the requestor.
US08886827B2 Flow cache mechanism for performing packet flow lookups in a network device
An example network device includes a network interface configured to receive a packet of a packet flow, wherein the packet flow is one of a plurality of packet flows processed by the network device, a flow cache configured to receive a lookup key associated with the packet flow, and a Bloom filter configured to process the lookup key. The flow cache is further configured to store information about a portion of the plurality of packet flows processed by the network device, and determine whether to store information about the packet flow by at least applying a selection criterion to processing of the lookup key by the Bloom filter. The flow cache is configured to determine whether the lookup key is stored in the flow cache, and, when the lookup key is stored in the flow cache, retrieve a stored result associated with the lookup key and output the stored result.
US08886822B2 Systems and methods for accelerating delivery of a computing environment to a remote user
The present invention is directed towards a method and system for accelerating delivery of a computing environment to a remote client. The computing environment may include a plurality of files comprising an application program and may be streamed to a remote client from a server. Responsive to a determination of whether transmission of the application may be accelerated, an appliance, intercepting the plurality of files, may accelerate transmission of the application program by applying one or more transport layer transmission acceleration techniques to the plurality of files.
US08886813B2 Systems and methods for providing secure communications for transactions
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for providing secure communications. One aspect of an embodiment of the invention creates a virtual private connection to a remote server or network utilizing a connection server and at least one direct connection between a client device and the remote server, without utilizing the Internet. In another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention, a client operating system is taken over by a vertical function operating system to service the communication with the remote server. Still another aspect of an embodiment of the present invention comprises a client device establishing a connection with a remote server through a connection server and at least one direct connection, shutting down a first operating system, starting up a second secure operating system, and launching an interface application with the second operating system to conduct electronic transactions with the remote server.
US08886800B2 System and method for traffic analysis
A system for traffic analysis which includes an analyzer, a content source and a user terminal, and an authentication mechanism that allows or rejects the connection of the analyzer in a traffic flow between the content source and the user terminal. The analyzer includes a storage device for storing at least parts of the traffic and a questionnaire generator that uses the recorded traffic data to generate a questionnaire with questions only regarding services or content accessed by the user terminal. The response may include parameter values that are filled in by a user or parameter values that are filled in by the user terminal. Traffic data and response from multiple user terminals can be stored for later analysis.
US08886798B2 Group monitoring system and method
An internet based social networking system, the system including: a number of video sensors monitoring a specified environment and streaming video into the system; a series of system users collectively monitoring the video streams and analyzing events generated in relation to the video stream; and a reporting system for reporting actions taken by the system users among the system users.
US08886771B2 Method and system for providing distributed allowed domains in a data network
Method and system for providing distributed domains in a fiber channel fabric including determining a domain configuration of a resource, retrieving one or more current domain configuration parameters, determining a list of domains in a fiber channel fabric, and generating an updated domain list for the resource in the fabric is disclosed.
US08886767B1 Sharing resources in a local serving office
Managing the storage and deletion of content on a content store shared by more than one local distribution office.
US08886762B2 Stream duration management
In general, in one aspect, streaming content is received from a server, the streaming content being stored and queued for client-side playback from the server. Information about the streaming content is received. A virtual current duration of the streaming content is determined at a client-side application based on the information about the streaming content. A timeline control is generated based on the determined virtual duration, the timeline control presenting a representation of the virtual duration and allowing navigation forward and backward in the streaming content. The timeline control is displayed at the client-side display device.
US08886755B1 Method and apparatus for facilitating simultaneous transmission from multiple stations
A first communication device determines that each second communication device in a plurality of second communication devices has respective data to be transmitted to the first communication device. The first communication device transmits a request to the plurality of second communication devices to transmit data to the first communication device simultaneously during a transmit opportunity period of the first communication device. The first communication device receives data transmitted simultaneously by the plurality of second communication devices during the transmit opportunity period of the first communication device.
US08886745B2 Methods and apparatus for delivering auxiliary data to device
Embodiments relate to systems and methods for delivering auxiliary data to a wireless or other device. Content, such as audio, video or textual content, can be hosted by a server for delivery to the device. The content can have associated resources, for example icons, barkers, intros, and outros that are associated with television programming or other media content. A metadata document can describe the set of resources or other auxiliary data associated with a service, channel or content by indicating a resource descriptor, and a URL or other associated resource locator information. The metadata document can be encoded in XML or other formats. The device can locate resources that are intended to be delivered with selected content, since links to the resources are integrated in the metadata document. From the resource descriptor, the device can also identify how a particular resource should be utilized for the service, channel or content.
US08886740B2 Card-based processing and updates
Systems and methods providing users with a rich web experience are disclosed. In one embodiment, a client and at least one server are in communication using a dual communication link. In another embodiment, a markup language based instant messaging application is disclosed. The instant messaging application may include group instant messaging. The instant messaging application may also provide group member persistence and message persistence at the server. In another embodiment, a card based web application is disclosed, where the card information and character may be shared with other users or within a group. The cards may also be configurable by users.
US08886739B2 Electronic message content and header restrictive send device handling system and method
An electronic messaging system and method with reduced traceability. Separate displays are provided at a sending user device for separately entering via the user device message content of an electronic message and a recipient address corresponding to the message content such that the separate displays are not displayed via the user device at the same time. The message content and the recipient address are transmitted from the user device separately and the message content is not accessible by a user of the sending user device via the user device after a media component of the message content is transmitted from the device to a server computer.
US08886730B2 Methods and devices for authorization in collaborative communications sessions
In an embodiment, a method for changing a collaborative communications session may be provided. The method may include: sending a request message requesting for authorizing a change of a collaborative communications session to an end device of the collaborative communications session; determining whether an authorization message is received from the end device in response to the request message sent; and changing the collaborative communications session, in case it is determined that an authorization message is received from the end device in response to the request message sent.
US08886728B2 Method and apparatus for reclassifying e-mail or modifying a spam filter based on users' input
A method is disclosed including passing a plurality of e-mails through a spam filter and classifying at least of the plurality of e-mails as not spam. Thereafter, the plurality of e-mails are received at each of a plurality of user computers. The method may further include receiving a plurality of reports, the plurality of reports including one report from each of the plurality of user computers that one or more of the plurality of e-mails are spam that was not classified as spam by the spam filter. Based on the plurality of reports, one or more of the plurality of e-mails is reclassified as spam and/or the spam filter is modified.
US08886722B2 Universal state-aware communications
A communications system for general business environments that exploits knowledge of user state to provide advantages of efficiency and control for individual users and for the business. The communications system also provides particular advantages in environments where users have multiple communication devices and for communications of a business with external parties. In other aspects, the communication system provides features of application flexibility and system fault-tolerance with broad applicability to communication systems. The communication system includes a controller that receives requests for establishing communications when a user is in an appropriate state to receive communications and communicates state of the user to other users. The controller receives a user request for establishing a communication when the user is not in the appropriate state for communication, receives a user request for a state change to the appropriate state to receive the communication, and initiates communication without changing state of the user.
US08886712B2 Communication device
A communication device is connected to a terminal device including a display and a web browser through a network. The communication device includes: a first providing unit that provides a first web page display instruction to the terminal device; and a second providing unit that provides a second web page display instruction to the terminal device for making the web browser display a second web page including a specific message on the display unit. The specific message indicates a solution when the first web page including the predetermined information acquired from the external server is not displayed on the display unit of the terminal device, and the solution is for making the web browser acquire the predetermined information by a different method from the method of acquiring the predetermined information from the external server and display the predetermined information on the display unit of the terminal device.
US08886709B2 System and method for efficient image and document upload
There is disclosed a system and method for uploading a document from the device to a server. In an embodiment, the method comprises: (i) generating and storing a scaled down version of the document on the device; (ii) determining the type of connection the device has established with the server; (iii) if the device has established a specified type of high bandwidth connection to the server, then: uploading the document from the device to the server; deleting the document from the device; and creating an upload record of data associated with the scaled down version of the document on the device to subsequently access the uploaded document; (iv) else, if the device has not established a specified type of high bandwidth connection to the server, then uploading the scaled down version of the document.
US08886707B2 Intervention processing of requests relative to syndication data feed items
Syndication data feed items, corresponding to hosted content, are provided to a user program. A resource locator to hosted content to which a syndication data feed item corresponds is processed, including adjusting the resource locator to associate the resource locator with an intervention service with regard to the syndication data feed item. The processed syndication data feed items are provided to the user program. In addition, requests are processed to view hosted content corresponding to syndication data feed items. An intervention service receives a request from a user program to view hosted content to which a syndication data feed item corresponds, including a resource locator to the host that has been adjusted in the syndication data feed item to associate the resource locator with an intervention service. Intervention processing is performed, including causing interaction with the host of the requested content such that the host content is caused to be displayed at a user location.
US08886701B1 Network based software agent to allow dynamic resource access
A method of enabling a client connected to a foreign computer network to utilize various network resources within the foreign computer network. Wherein, the client may not possess the various applications and drivers typically needed to operate the network resources. For example, a personal digital assistant (PDA) could wirelessly connect to an Ethernet network and print a document located on the internet without downloading the specific printer driver or the application with which to open the document.
US08886700B2 Content sharing with limited cloud storage
Apparatus and methods for sharing electronically rendered information between a plurality of devices over a data communications network with limited used of network data storage is described. Content may be shared automatically between members of a share group, without interactive content-sharing operations being executed by users. The embodiments include content tagging, commenting, searching, and syncing of content. Action metadata messages, that are not viewed by a user of a device, may be sent separately from content portions to notify share-group members of content to be shared. Sharing of content can be accomplished via peer-to-peer links as well as intermediary links, which may execute concurrently.
US08886697B2 Solid state photomultiplier with improved pulse shape readout
Exemplary embodiments are directed to shaping a readout pulse from a solid state photomultiplier (SSPM). A readout pulse can be received from the SSPM at an input of a buffer amplifier. The readout pulse can have a discharge portion with a discharge rate and a recharge portion with a recharge rate. A magnitude of the readout pulse increasing for the discharge portion and decreasing for the recharge portion. A frequency dependent input impedance circuit can be employed in electrical communication with the input of the buffer amplifier to shape the discharge portion of the readout pulse.
US08886688B2 Type neutral container
Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with an artifact type neutral container are described. This artifact type neutral container is achieved through an artifact type neutral architecture that is managed using a central type neutral registration mechanism. Queries are executed on type neutral registration tables to return data stores that store the artifacts found within a given artifact type neutral container. The data stores are queried to return the artifacts in the artifact type neutral container. The artifact type neutral container can be used in systems in which the artifact type neutral container and artifact data are stored in the same database as well as in systems in which the artifact type neutral container and artifact data are stored in different databases.
US08886685B2 Navigating media content by groups
Grouping media files via playlists on a computer-readable medium. One or more media files are selected according to a grouping criterion to define one or more playlists from the media files. A container group is associated with the playlists and stores values identifying each of the playlists associated with the container group along with references to each of the playlists.
US08886683B2 Metadata generation management device, metadata generation system, integrated circuit for managing generation of metadata, metadata generation management method, and program
A metadata generation management device includes a count unit that measures a playback amount of content, which is an amount of content that has been played back; and a control unit that controls whether to output an instruction for generating metadata indicating characteristics of the content, based on the playback amount of the content.
US08886682B2 XML based transaction detail records
The present invention is directed to a method for managing transactions in a telecommunications network. The method includes creating an XML transaction detail file. At least one transaction detail record is stored in the XML transaction detail file in response to a telecommunications transaction. The at least one transaction detail record includes transaction data corresponding to the telecommunications transaction.
US08886681B2 Data analytics system
A data analytics system for manipulating and analyzing data and usable in preventing instances of incompatibility as desired, is disclosed.
US08886671B1 Multi-tenant in-memory database (MUTED) system and method
In various embodiments, systems and methods for Multi-Tenant In-Memory Database access to an application program accessing an object-oriented database (OODB) are disclosed. Embodiments may include: connecting, by a processor, the application program to a data repository for a database; generating, by the processor, a first Firm for a first tenant; placing, by the processor, an address of a first object of the first Firm into a knowledge base pointer associated with the first tenant; placing, by the processor, an address of a main database object of the database into a pointer in an object of the first Firm; and accessing, by the processor, the first Firm through the knowledge base pointer and the database through the pointer object of the first Firm.
US08886666B2 Method and system for generating media recommendations in a distributed environment based on tagging play history information with location information
A computer-implemented method and system are provided for generating media recommendations in a media recommendation network. Aspects of the method and system include receiving by a server a plurality of play histories of media items from a plurality of users of devices, wherein at least a portion of the media items are tagged with corresponding time and location data indicating a time and location of play; receiving by the server a media recommendation request from a requester, including receiving seed information indicating a current location of the requester; using at least one of user preferences of the requester and the seed information to identify correlated users from which to search corresponding play histories from among the plurality of play histories; comparing the seed information to the corresponding play histories and generating a list of related media items contained therein; and returning the list of related media items to the requester.
US08886658B2 Method and device for displaying message
A method and device for displaying messages including receiving messages, querying and acquiring a user message memory database corresponding to a sender user number according to the sender user number carried in the messages; combining the received messages according to a preset time strategy and the acquired user message memory database; and displaying the combined message. The amount of new messages displayed in a message receiving interface list can be increased, user's chat experience can be improved, and display screen utilization rate can be improved.
US08886651B1 Thematic clustering
A data set is clustered into one or more initial clusters using a first term space. Initial themes for the initial clusters are determined. The first term space is reduced to create a reduced term space. At least a portion of the data set is reclustered into one or more baby clusters using the reduced term space. One or more singletons are reassigned to form one or more renovated clusters from the baby clusters. A renovated theme is determined for at least some of the renovated clusters. One or more of the renovated clusters and their respective themes are provided as output.
US08886640B2 Using smart push to retrieve search results based on a set period of time and a set keyword when the set keyword falls within top popular search ranking during the set time period
A portable terminal transmits to a server setting information for a smart push in which a keyword and a search term are set. The server determines whether the keyword falls within top popular search rankings during a term period corresponding to the search term based on the received smart push setting information. If the keyword falls within the top popular search rankings, the server transmits search results obtained using the keyword to the portable terminal.
US08886635B2 Apparatus and method for recognizing content using audio signal
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for recognizing content using an audio signal. The content recognition apparatus includes a query fingerprint extraction unit for forming frames having a preset frame length for an audio signal, and generating frame-based feature vectors for respective frames, thus extracting a query fingerprint. A reference fingerprint DB stores reference fingerprints to be compared with the query fingerprint and pieces of content information corresponding to the reference fingerprints. A fingerprint matching unit determines a reference fingerprint matching the query fingerprint. In this case, the query fingerprint extraction unit forms the frames while varying a frame shift size that is an interval between start points of neighboring frames in a partial section. According to the present invention, there can be provided a content recognition apparatus and method which can maintain the accuracy and reliability of matching while promptly providing results.
US08886627B2 Inverse search systems and methods
Inverse search systems and methods operate on identifiers of content items in a corpus such as the World Wide Web In an inverse search, the user submits a query that includes an identifier of a target content item in the corpus and receives information (metadata) about the target content item being returned to the user. Many types of metadata can be returned, including ratings or other metadata related to the target content item obtained from users, popularity data specific to the target content item, information about previously submitted forward search queries that led to the target content item being identified as a hit, and metadata extracted from the target content item.
US08886626B2 Personalized network searching
Personalized network searching, in which a search query is received from a user, and a request is received to personalize a search result. Responsive to the search query and the request to personalize the search result, a personalized search result is generated by searching a personalized search object. Responsive to the search query, a general search result is generated by searching the general search object. The personalized search result and the general search result are provided to a client device, an advertisement is selected based at least in part upon the personalized search object, and the advertisement, the personalized search result, and the general search result are displayed.
US08886623B2 Large scale concept discovery for webpage augmentation using search engine indexers
Disclosed is a method and system for retrieving data; extracting information from the data; learning to disambiguate the extracted information such that a particular sense of each phrase within the extracted information is determined; generating a disambiguation classifier from the learning to disambiguate step, the disambiguation classifier configured to determine a sense of a phrase within a document; learning to select a portion of the information as being relevant to a theme of the data; generating a selection classifier from the learning to select step, the selection classifier configured to select a topic in a document that is relevant to a theme of the document; and using the disambiguation classifier and the selection classifier by an indexing computer to determine a set of topics from a web document retrieved by the indexing computer.
US08886621B2 Search engine and method with improved relevancy, scope, and timeliness
A search engine and a method achieve timeliness of documents returned in a search result by a relevancy feedback mechanism driven by the frequency in which a URL is returned in recent searches. The relevancy feedback mechanism includes one or more random processes which determine whether or not a cached or indexed web page associated with a URL in the search result should be refreshed. In addition, the random processes also determine whether or not hyperlinks in the cached or indexed web page should be followed to access related web pages. Accesses of web pages resulting from the operations of the random processes are used to update any document index maintained by the search engine. Relevancy scoring functions implemented in look-up tables are also disclosed. A more accurate relevancy scoring function is achieved using a lexicon based on anchortexts of extracted hyperlinks of web documents.
US08886617B2 Query-based searching using a virtual table
A method of searching all tables in a data model is disclosed, using a non-materializing virtual table interface that acts as a view into the underlying data model. The virtual table is virtually built on the fly at query execution time, and maps to all columns and rows within the data model. A query on the virtual table is translated into a set of data model queries for searching the data model, based on columns selected from the virtual table and other specified search parameters, as well as the virtual table definition. The search process works in conjunction with data domains, and uses compaction and tokenization of data.
US08886614B2 Executing a join plan using data compression
A join plan creates an intermediate table from two or more database tables within a database. In doing so, at least one projected and compressible column within one of the database tables is identified, where the column contains data values to which the application of a compression data transformation results in a reduction in the size of the data values. The frequency of occurrences of at least some unique values in the compressible column is identified, and then the two or more database tables are joined. The results of the join are then stored in the intermediate table such that the compression data transformation is applied to at least some of the unique values in the compressible column for which the frequency has been identified.
US08886611B2 Systems and methods for restoring a file
Systems and methods for restoring files and metadata records associated with files are provided herein. Some of the methods include identifying a version of the file, evaluating one or more reverse incremental delta increments, and restoring an arbitrary version of the file based on an arbitrary time reference by assembling the arbitrary version of the file based on the one or more reverse incremental delta increments.
US08886608B2 Historical view of open files
Managing versions of an electronic entity comprising many independently managed, but mutually-dependent, subcomponents can be challenging. File management functionality is provided for use with an integrated development environment to produce a visual indication of the relationships among the subcomponents. The approach described herein provides an improvement over source code control systems and backup systems in the ability to revert the state of one or more files as their content existed at an historical time point. The technique does not require a user to predict in advance at which time points the content state of one or more files will be interesting as historical time points for future use.
US08886601B1 System and method for incrementally replicating investigative analysis data
A method of incrementally replicating investigative analysis data is disclosed along with a system for performing the same. The method and system provide the ability to break a data replication job into multiple “replication chunks” which can be exported and imported separately. By doing so, the method and system can efficiently replicate large numbers of data object changes over an unreliable data network.
US08886599B2 System for updating a navigation database
A navigation system including a navigation database provides efficient and accurate database updates. The system receives a modified version of the navigation database. The system identifies data blocks of the modified version that differ from the corresponding data blocks of the navigation database. The system generates an update based on the identified differences. The system updates the navigation database using the generated update.
US08886597B2 Synchronizing changes in a file system which are initiated by a storage device and a host device
When a storage device initiates a change in its file system, it locally stores it for future update of the file system. When the host device sends a command to the storage device, the storage device responds to it by commencing a synchronization process during which the two parties coordinate the update of the file system with the stored change. If there are no file system changes pending in the host device, the storage device gets permission from the host device to update the file system with the change and, then, the host device reads the updated file system from the storage device. If there are file system changes pending in the host device, the host device updates a representation of the file system residing in the host device, causes the storage device to make the same changes, and then the storage device initiated change, in the file system. Lastly, the host device receives information from the storage device regarding the changes initiated by the storage device.
US08886595B2 System and method for performing an image level snapshot and for restoring partial volume data
The present invention relates to a method for performing an image level copy of an information store. The present invention comprises performing a snapshot of an information store that indexes the contents of the information store, retrieving data associated with the contents of the information store from a file allocation table, copying the contents of the information store to a storage device based on the snapshot, and associating the retrieved data with the copied contents to provide file system information for the copied contents.
US08886587B1 Model development and evaluation
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for managing decision models. In one aspect, a method includes providing data that cause presentation of a model development user interface receiving first model rule data through the user interface. The first model rule data specify a first characteristic of a violating resource and a threshold score for the first characteristic. Additional model rule data are received through the user interface. The additional model rule data specify one or more additional model rules. Relationship data are received through the user interface for each of the additional model rules. The relationship data specify sets of the additional model rules that violating resources satisfy. Data that cause a hierarchical presentation of the first model rule and the additional model rules are provided.
US08886586B2 Method for making optimal selections based on multiple objective and subjective criteria
A method for making optimal decisions includes the ability to consider and weigh multiple factors, where those factors might be numeric, or non-numeric, objective or subjective. Further, the method ensures that factors are not prematurely eliminated. This contrasts with behavior common to decision-tree based approaches. The method further allows for weighting based on multiple statistical means as well as by the application of non-statistical values.
US08886580B2 Classification of digital content using aggregate scoring by a grid load balancer configured to assign content to different content analysis engines based on content identifications of a semantics processor
Aggregate scoring is used to help classify digital content such as content uploaded to multi-user websites (e.g., social networking websites). In one embodiment, specific categories are used that relate to a social implication of content. For example, text, images, audio or other data formats can provide communication perceived to fall into categories such as violent, abusive, rights management, pornographic or other types of communication. The categories are used to provide a raw score to items in various groupings of a site's content. Where items are related to other items such as by organizational, social, legal, data-driven, design methods, or by other principles or definitions, the related items' raw scores are aggregated to achieve a score for a particular grouping of items that reflects, at least in part, scores from two or more of the related items.
US08886578B2 Method and system for automatically classifying and identifying vestibulo-ocular responses
Stabilizing the visual system for any sighted mobile system increases immunity of the mobile system's gaze and reduces information processing task complexity. Two human reflexes are the optokinetic reflex and vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR). The VOR stabilizes retinal images during head movement by producing eye movements in the opposite direction. Improved analysis of the VOR in humans would improve the diagnosis/treatment of patients, provide improvements in visual prosthesis performance for patients, and also vision systems performance for mobile robotic systems. However, an important issue for prior art mathematical analysis techniques is the requirement to classify the nystagmus segments before applying any analysis techniques, wherein this classification should be preferably performed non-subjectively. Accordingly the inventors overcome these limitations by performing classification, i.e. segmentation of the data record into multiple modes (including possible artifacts or outliers), and identification of mode dynamics concurrently and objectively in a manner suitable for multi-input systems.
US08886573B2 Determining optimum graph bisection using a tree and pruning the tree using a packing lower bound
Techniques are described for graph partitioning, and in particular, graph bisection. A lower bound is provided that is computed in near-linear time. These bounds may be used to determine optimum solutions to real-world graphs with many vertices (e.g., more than a million for road networks, or tens of thousands for VLSI and mesh instances). A packing lower bound technique determines lower bounds in a branch-and-bound tree, reducing the number of tree nodes. Techniques are employed to assign vertices without branching on them, again reducing the size of the tree. Decomposition is provided to translate an input graph into less complex subproblems. The decomposition boosts performance and determines the optimum solution to an input by solving subproblems independently. The subproblems can be solved independently using a branch-and-bound approach to determine the optimum bisection.
US08886571B2 System and method for service virtualization in a service governance framework
A service governance framework may provide a platform for development and hosting of virtual service offerings and generation of interfaces to operations thereof, dependent on configurable functional parameters and/or non-functional aspects associated therewith. Virtualization techniques may be applied at an endpoint level, binding level, message level, operation level, and/or service level at design time, and supported with corresponding changes at runtime. Users having various roles may access the framework to specify operations of services provided by computing service sources to include in a virtual service offering, specify configuration parameter values associated with them, and/or specify a contract of non-functional aspect clauses for the virtual service offering. The framework may produce the interface by modifying an interface provided by the computing service sources (e.g., a WSDL). The framework may include aspect enforcement methods and an underlying common information model, and may support versioning and life cycles of service offerings and/or components.
US08886570B1 Hacker-resistant balance monitoring
Methods of and systems for securely monitoring a balance of a payment account include storing, in a first database, ledger data and storing, in a second database, wallet data. Wallet data includes a wallet balance value for the payment account. When a transaction is initiated using the payment account, an access operation is performed on the wallet table. Illicit or improper modifications can be detected by deriving a ledger comparison value from the ledger data and comparing the derived ledger comparison value to a wallet comparison value from the wallet data.
US08886564B2 Program for resource security in a database management system
An inventive method is presented for resource security in a database management system having a plurality of resources, the method comprising creating a macro and a corresponding data section definition (DSECT) defining security for each resource, assembling all of the DSECTs into a load module, processing the load module to obtain source code, and assembling the source code, such that changing the source code of one resource modifies the defined security of the resource and adding new source code to the source code adds a new resource having security to the plurality of resources. The processing step can comprise loading the load module, reading a DSECT having a total number of resources, and, for each resource of the total number of resources, reading a next DSECT, finding the defined security in the next DSECT, and obtaining the source code associated with the defined security.
US08886555B2 Managing advertising services for mobile devices and users
This description provides tools and techniques for managing advertising services for mobile devices and users. These tools may provide methods that include establishing advertising databases for storing representations of geographic areas. These methods may include receiving bids from advertisers, with these bids referencing keywords and the geographic areas. The advertisers specified in the bids may be associated with the keywords and geographic areas specified in the bids, such that when a user of a mobile communications device activates the keyword within a geographic area, the mobile device received advertising information associated with the advertiser.
US08886550B2 Systems and methods for classifying computer video game genres utilizing multi-dimensional cloud chart
Features of electronically embodied games are logically categorized, analyzed, and compared. Features are preferably organized according to a hierarchical classification scheme, according to a classification scheme that is not strictly tautological. All suitable feature sets are contemplated, including sets corresponding to characteristics of personifications of players and non-players, types and/or uses of game space, methods of rewarding a player, etc. In other aspects comparisons are made between an evaluation game and one or more sets of historically available games. Such sets can be grouped by genre and the number of games in such sets can range anywhere from a single game to hundreds of games, or more. Reporting and guidance can include providing a risk assessment score or other risk analysis, feature assessment (prevalence), market placement, business model analysis, dynamic trend analysis, clustered pattern recognition, and image analysis.
US08886539B2 Prosody generation using syllable-centered polynomial representation of pitch contours
The present invention discloses a parametrical representation of prosody based on polynomial expansion coefficients of the pitch contour near the center of each syllable. The said syllable pitch expansion coefficients are generated from a recorded speech database, read from a number of sentences by a reference speaker. By correlating the stress level and context information of each syllable in the text with the polynomial expansion coefficients of the corresponding spoken syllable, a correlation database is formed. To generate prosody for an input text, stress level and context information of each syllable in the text is identified. The prosody is generated by using the said correlation database to find the best set of pitch parameters for each syllable. By adding to global pitch contours and using interpolation formulas, complete pitch contour for the input text is generated. Duration and intensity profile are generated using a similar procedure.
US08886534B2 Speech recognition apparatus, speech recognition method, and speech recognition robot
A speech recognition apparatus includes a speech input unit that receives input speech, a phoneme recognition unit that recognizes phonemes of the input speech and generates a first phoneme sequence representing corrected speech, a matching unit that matches the first phoneme sequence with a second phoneme sequence representing original speech, and a phoneme correcting unit that corrects phonemes of the second phoneme sequence based on the matching result.
US08886526B2 Source separation using independent component analysis with mixed multi-variate probability density function
Methods and apparatus for signal processing are disclosed. Source separation can be performed to extract source signals from mixtures of source signals by way of independent component analysis. Source separation described herein involves mixed multivariate probability density functions that are mixtures of component density functions having different parameters corresponding to frequency components of different sources, different time segments, or some combination thereof.
US08886525B2 System and method for adaptive intelligent noise suppression
Systems and methods for adaptive intelligent noise suppression are provided. In exemplary embodiments, a primary acoustic signal is received. A speech distortion estimate is then determined based on the primary acoustic signal. The speech distortion estimate is used to derive control signals which adjust an enhancement filter. The enhancement filter is used to generate a plurality of gain masks, which may be applied to the primary acoustic signal to generate a noise suppressed signal.
US08886521B2 System and method of dictation for a speech recognition command system
In embodiments of the present invention, a system and computer-implemented method for enabling dictation may include parsing standard reports in order to identify a plurality of logical phrases in the report used for discrete sections and descriptions. In the report method, the phrases may be parsed and identifier words throughout the report may be compared to eliminate ambiguities. The method may then involve constructing text macros that follow the parsed text, thereby enabling the user to speak the identifiers to indicate full, formatted text. Finally, the report method may involve constructing a mnemonic document so both beginner and experienced users can easily read the identifiers out loud to produce a report. The result of the method is an intuitive, notes-style way to use speech commands to quickly produce a standard, formatted report.
US08886520B1 Method and apparatus for triggering the automatic generation of narratives
Artificial intelligence methods and systems for triggering the generation of narratives are disclosed. Specific embodiments relate to real-time evaluation and automated generation of narrative stories based on received data. For example, data can be tested against data representative of a plurality of story angles to determine whether a narrative story incorporating one or more such story angles is to be automatically generated.
US08886519B2 Text processing apparatus, text processing method, and computer-readable recording medium
A text processing apparatus is provided with a segment determination unit 36 and a descriptive content determination unit 33. The segment determination unit 36 determines, with respect to a homogeneous segment that is similar to segments constituting a first text which is set as an analysis target (analysis target text) and that is included in another first text, whether the content thereof is included in a second text. The descriptive content determination unit 33 determines whether each segment constituting the analysis target text should be described in a corresponding second text, based on the determination result.
US08886517B2 Trust scoring for language translation systems
Systems and methods for generating trust scores for translations are described herein. According to some embodiments, methods for generating a trust score for a translation may include establishing a trust score for at least a portion of a first translation of a source text translated by a trusted translation system, the trust score representing an accuracy level for the first translation, comparing the first translation of the source text generated by the trusted translation system to a second translation of the source text generated by an untrusted translation system, and determining a trust score for the second translation based upon the comparison.
US08886496B2 Method to determine a parameter of a fixing element for an implant to be affixed to a bone
In a method to determine a parameter of a fixing element for an implant to be affixed to a bone, the actual design of the bone and the relative attitude of the implant positioned on this are determined, a virtual 3D model depicting the actual design of the bone and the relative attitude of the implant is generated, and a parameter of the fixing element is determined automatically using the virtual 3D model.
US08886484B2 Method and apparatus for the corrected radiometric measurement of object points on surfaces of astronomical bodies
A method and an apparatus for air-borne or space-borne radiometric measurement of object points present in an object scene on the surface of a astronomical body. A corrected recording of image points in an image plane in which object points from the object scene are imaged on a detector, is carried out by determining recording errors of the detector caused by systematically occurring spatial and temporal changes in a scanning movement of the detector, with reference to a measurement line relative to a recording field, then generally an actuation function along the measurement line in the form of different trigger times in which measurements of the individual object points are initiated exactly at that time. Based on the triggering of the detector elements due to the actuation function synchronized measurements of all of the object points of every row of an object matrix are carrying out along the designated measurement line.
US08886481B1 Reducing variation in multi-die integrated circuits
A method of reducing variation in multi-die integrated circuits can include, for each of a plurality of dies, determining at least one performance metric and selecting at least two dies for inclusion within a multi-die integrated circuit according to the at least one performance metric. Systems and devices for executing the steps of the method are also described.
US08886475B2 Reliability calculation for Substation Automation systems
A method and device automatically extract, to a maximum extent, reliability-relevant information from a Substation Configuration Description (SCD) file describing an electric power transmission or distribution substation. The information in the SCD file is used to identify the physical topology of a communication network of a Substation Automation (SA) system, and all dataflow relating to a given SA functionality or Logical Node (LN). An LN reliability measure for the latter is calculated, involving reliability indications specific to each element or device participating in the dataflow. A number of LN reliability measures are consolidated to produce an overall reliability for the SA system architecture or communication network topology. The method and tool minimize the engineering effort required to perform a reliability calculation, and thus allow comparing the reliability of different SA architectures with minimal effort and intervention of a reliability engineer.
US08886466B2 System and method for autoverifying laboratory test results
A method of autoverifying clinical test results comprises displaying an autoverification process as a flowchart on a graphical user interface. The autoverification process is defined by a plurality of nodes and a plurality of edges connecting the nodes. The autoverification process is configured to evaluate a result and determine if the test result meets a predetermined criteria. The method further comprises receiving the test result and automatically performing the autoverification process on the test result. A system for creating and implementing the autoverification processes comprises a graphical user interface configured to display the autoverification process as a flowchart. The system includes an input configured to receive the clinical test result from a laboratory analyzer. The system also includes a processor configured to analyze the clinical test result according to the defined autoverification process.
US08886459B2 Systems and methods for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) tactical tracking and mission data acquisition
A system and method are provided to support accommodating safe integration of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUASs) into the National Airspace Structure in the United States. A specifically-tailored service is provided to address a change of paradigm from aircraft-based avionics/capabilities to a ground-based solution centered on the sUAS control station that is typically employed to manage an sUAS mission and/or flight. Appropriate software, server and system components are integrated into an interactive, easy-to-use, web-based tool that provides interested parties with real-time, graphical flight-following information to acquire position information regarding an sUAS platform from the control console for the sUAS platform. The acquired position information is forwarded to a separate server that can augment and provide graphical display of the sUAS intended route of flight (flight planned route). The acquired position information for the sUAS is converted to a format commonly used by aviation and air traffic control systems.
US08886456B2 Motor vehicle having a navigation system
A motor vehicle has a navigation system, which includes a graphic display unit and by which accurate-lane destination guidance is made possible on a planned route. A road map containing lane information can be displayed on the display unit. Within or in superimposition of the displayed road map, the route can be displayed accurately with respect to the lanes. A lane guidance display area can be displayed, which is graphically set off from the road map and within which several lanes of a currently traveled route section are graphically represented and within which the necessity of a lane change is graphically displayed. A rating can be determined for the urgency of the lane change, and this rating can be graphically displayed in the lane guidance display area.
US08886454B2 Road guidance display method and system using geotagging image
A road guidance display method and system using a geo-tagging image are provided. More specifically, a street image is stored by capturing the street image at a specific point by a camera and storing the street image along with position information at a corresponding point. Subsequently, the street image stored in the storing process is output on a screen when a reproduction command is input by a user or when a vehicle is within a predetermined distance from a street image capturing point.
US08886450B2 System and method for identifying manoeuvres for a vehicle in conflict situations
The present invention is directed to a system and method for identifying maneuvers for a vehicle in conflict situations. A plurality of miss points are calculated for the vehicle and as well as object conditions at which the vehicle will miss an impact with the at least one other object by a range of miss distances. The miss points are displayed such that a plurality of miss points at which the vehicle would miss impact by a given miss distance indicative of a given degree of conflict is visually distinguishable from other miss points at which the vehicle would miss impact by greater miss distances indicative of a lesser degree of conflict. The resulting display indicates varying degrees of potential conflict to present, in a directional view display, a range of available maneuvers for the vehicle in accordance with varying degrees of conflict.
US08886446B1 Method and system for allocating aircraft arrival/departure slot times, with preferred movement
The present invention takes the form of a computer program, method and/or system to allow an airline, aviation authority or other aviation entity to temporally manage, coordinate and allocate aircraft arrival/departure Slot Times during a specified period for the flow of a plurality of aircraft at a specified fix point, based upon specified data comprised of the aircraft, the fix point, associated system resources, business/operational goals, airline Requested Slot Times, Preferred Movement and aviation system specified criteria, some of which is temporally varying.
US08886445B1 Automatic aircraft collision avoidance system and method
The invention is a system and method of compressing a DTM to be used in an Auto-GCAS system using a semi-regular geometric compression algorithm. In general, the invention operates by first selecting the boundaries of the three dimensional map to be compressed and dividing the three dimensional map data into regular areas. Next, a type of free-edged, flat geometric surface is selected which will be used to approximate terrain data of the three dimensional map data. The flat geometric surface is used to approximate terrain data for each regular area. The approximations are checked to determine if they fall within selected tolerances. If the approximation for a specific regular area is within specified tolerance, the data is saved for that specific regular area. If the approximation for a specific area falls outside the specified tolerances, the regular area is divided and a flat geometric surface approximation is made for each of the divided areas. This process is recursively repeated until all of the regular areas are approximated by flat geometric surfaces. Finally, the compressed three dimensional map data is provided to the automatic ground collision system for an aircraft.
US08886443B2 ISG control method for vehicle in congested area
An ISG control method for a vehicle in a congested area, may include an N-stage stop determining step that determines whether a shift lever has moved from a D-stage to an N-stage and a brake has been operated, discriminating from when the shift lever is at the D-stage; an N-stage vehicle speed determining step that determines whether a vehicle speed is equal to or less than a predetermined N-stage stop vehicle speed after the N-stage stop determining step; and a remaining condition determining step for entering an idle-stop state, when the vehicle speed is equal to or less than the N-stage stop vehicle speed, as a result of performing the N-stage vehicle speed determining step, and when idle-stop entering conditions other than a position of the shift lever, the vehicle speed, and the history of a maximum traveling vehicle speed are satisfied.
US08886436B2 Driving force control apparatus and vehicle control method
A driving force control apparatus includes: a turning radius estimating unit that estimates a turning radius of a four-wheel-drive vehicle; a target slip angle computing unit that computes a target slip angle at the time of turning of the four-wheel-drive vehicle, on the basis of the estimated turning radius; a target rotational speed computing unit that computes target rotational speeds of right and left rear wheels of the four-wheel-drive vehicle, on the basis of the estimated turning radius, the computed target slip angle, and a vehicle speed; and a driving force control unit that controls driving forces that are transmitted to the right and left rear wheels such that actual rotational speeds of the right and left rear wheels approach the computed target rotational speeds.
US08886435B2 Lock-up device and control method for lock-up device
A lock-up device supplies hydraulic pressure to a lock-up clutch when lock-up capacity becomes insufficient with increasing accelerator operation amount during slip control. The lock-up device (1) sets a hydraulic unit pressure command value corresponding to drive source torque so rotational speed difference becomes target slip speed when a variation in accelerator operation amount is in a predefined range, and deriving an estimated drive source output torque corresponding to the accelerator operation amount to set the pressure command value corresponding to the estimated drive source torque so the rotational speed difference becomes target slip speed when accelerator operation amount variation exceeds the range's upper limit, and (2) controls the hydraulic unit to supply hydraulic pressure corresponding to hydraulic pressure command value to the lock-up clutch.
US08886431B2 Apparatus and method for controlling a vehicle
In vehicle running control that, at the time of controlling driving force, determines whether an operating speed that is a speed at which a driver operates an accelerator operator (10) is higher than or equal to a threshold and that changes details of control over the driving force on the basis of a result of the determination, the threshold is set on the basis of operation information, other than the operating speed of the accelerator operator (10), within information related to operation of the accelerator operator (10). In the vehicle running control, at the time of controlling the driving force, details of control over the driving force are changed on the basis of the operating speed that is the speed at which the driver operates the accelerator operator (10) and a stroke amount that is an operation amount of the accelerator operator (10) when the driver has operated the accelerator operator (10).
US08886423B1 Slip control of a binary clutch assembly
A vehicle includes an engine, an engine control module (ECM), and a transmission assembly. The transmission assembly includes a transmission control module (TCM), a stationary member, gear sets, an input member connected to the engine and one of the gear sets, and a binary clutch assembly. The binary clutch assembly has a freewheeling element and a binary device preventing rotation of the binary clutch assembly when applied, and allows the binary clutch assembly to freewheel when released. The TCM controls a slip speed differential of the binary clutch assembly when the vehicle is coasting in a forward gear state. The TCM determines a threshold maximum slip speed differential, calculates a required engine speed for achieving no more than the threshold maximum, and transmits the required engine speed to the ECM to maintain engine speed at or above the required engine speed. Doing so enables transmission state and direction change flexibility.
US08886418B2 Fuel optimization display
The present invention is an apparatus and method for guiding the driver of a vehicle in selecting an accelerator pedal position and transmission gear to improve a score. The score may be a weighted average of a fuel economy score and a drivability score. A curve showing the best score for each gear may be shown on a display as a function of accelerator pedal and transmission gear number, along with the current accelerator pedal and gear number of the vehicle. The driver may improve the score by changing to an accelerator pedal and/or gear selection that is closer to the curve. The curve may be calculated, using a model based on forces and torques upon the vehicle, from data acquired by monitoring the vehicle and/or from external sources.
US08886406B2 Corner unit guidance control system using one antenna
A corner unit guidance control system for use with a corner unit that is part of a center pivot irrigation system includes an antenna, a receiver, and a controller. The antenna may be located along a vertical axis through the center of a wheel of the corner unit and may be operable to receive signals from at least one external positional information source. The receiver may be in communication with the antenna and operable to process the signals to produce position data corresponding to a current position of the wheel. The controller may be in communication with the receiver and may be programmed to steer the wheel to a heading corresponding to a difference between the current position of the wheel and a point along the path.
US08886404B2 Control system for a motor vehicle with a box body and motor vehicle
The invention relates to a control system for a motor vehicle, especially for a commercial vehicle that has a box body supportable on a chassis, with at least one detection means generating detection data for detecting the road profile in front of the vehicle in the direction of travel and a control device for controlling at least one controllable spring and/or damper unit depending on the detected data, wherein the at least one spring and/or damper unit for suspension and damping of the box body in the direction of a vertical axis of the vehicle can be connected to the box body and the chassis.
US08886395B2 Dynamic tire slip angle estimation system and method
A dynamic slip angle estimation system and method uses measured vehicle acceleration and yaw rate parameters in estimating a tire slip angle. From load sensor(s) mounted to the vehicle tire, a tire static load estimation is made and a tire slip angle is calculated at low frequency. The vehicle center of gravity longitudinal position and yaw moment of inertia is estimated from the static load on the vehicle tires. An observer calculates tire axle forces based on the vehicle acceleration and yaw rate. From the tire axle force estimations, the vehicle moment of inertia and vehicle center of gravity longitudinal position estimate and a low frequency direct measurement of the tire slip angle, a dynamic tire slip angle calculation is made.
US08886391B2 Method and system for retrieving diagnostic information from a vehicle
Exemplary embodiments of off-board tools (OBTs) may be used in vehicle inspection maintenance programs are provided. The OBT may include a processor, vehicle communication circuitry for linking to a vehicle diagnostic system, host interface circuitry for communicating with a host computer, and voltage determination circuitry for measuring a voltage through the vehicle diagnostic system. The OBT may include logic for storing a communications protocol used to link with a vehicle diagnostic system that is preferably used for re-establishing dropped communications links. In addition, the OBT may contain logic for testing at least one component of a starting and/or charging system of a vehicle. Still other embodiments may include logic for sending unsolicited messages to a host computer. Additional embodiments may include logic for determining the minimum number of messages that must be received by an OBT.
US08886372B2 Flight deck touch-sensitive hardware controls
Touch or proximity sensors are integrated into control devices such as knobs, dials or wheels incorporated in a user control panel. A control output processor detects whether any of the sensors are outputting signals indicating that a control device is being touched (or nearly touched) by a user. The control output processor causes an associated display area to be highlighted or otherwise modified on a display screen to indicate to the user which control device is being touched. This feature allows for “no-look” interaction with control panels, and keeps the user's eyes focused on the relevant displays where the control devices produce effects. This allows users to preview and verify that the correct control device is being manipulated prior to taking any (potentially erroneous) control actions.
US08886371B2 Method and system for high fidelity VTOL and hover capability
A vehicle having a plurality of thruster components, wherein each of the thruster components includes a plurality of sub-thrusters, each sub-thruster being grouped into one of a plurality of control groups. The vehicle including a control system receiving information related to the vehicle, wherein the control system selects one of the control groups and activates the sub-thrusters of the selected control group.
US08886370B2 Simplified flight control system including a declutchable friction device
The present invention relates to a friction device (11) for maintaining a control member (2, 8) in a determined position. The device comprises a contact part (16) movable between a declutched stable position and a clutched stable position, and vice versa. The clutched stable position corresponds to a position in which the contact part (16) bears against the control member (2, 8) in such a manner as to establish a determined friction force. An electromechanical drive means moves the contact part (16) between the two stable positions. The device includes remote control means for activating and deactivating the drive means.
US08886364B2 Method and apparatus for determining traveling condition of vehicle
A support control unit for determining a traveling condition of a host vehicle during an exit from a main road to an access road determines whether or not the condition of the host vehicle at a given point in time corresponds to an exit start scene or an exit completion scene for detecting the start of an exit or completion of the exit on the basis of a host vehicle position, route data, map rendering data, or lane information including at least road surface marking positions, and determines that an exit start timing or an exit completion timing of the host vehicle has arrived when the condition is determined to correspond to the exit start scene or the exit completion scene. Hence, during the exit from the main road to the access road, the traveling condition of the host vehicle can be determined accurately. The support control unit also determines the traveling condition of the host vehicle during convergence with the main road from the access road.
US08886358B2 Robot controller and robot system
A robot controller includes an input unit that receives operation instruction information, a database that stores grasp pattern information, and a processing unit that performs control processing based on information from the input unit and information from the database, and the input unit receives first to N-th operation instructions as operation instruction information, the processing unit loads i-th grasp pattern information that enables execution of the i-th operation instruction and j-th grasp pattern information that enables execution of the j-th operation instruction as the next operation instruction to the i-th operation instruction from the database, and performs control processing based on the i-th grasp pattern information and the j-th grasp pattern information.
US08886351B2 Machine for assembling vehicles and methods of assembling vehicles
A machine for use in assembling a vehicle is described herein. The vehicle includes at least a first component and a second component adapted to be coupled to the first component to form a component assembly. The machine includes at least one component tooling apparatus that is configured to selectively adjust an orientation of the second component with respect to the first component. A control system is coupled to the at least one component tooling apparatus. The control system includes a processor that is configured to receive a unique vehicle identifier associated with the component assembly, and determine a design orientation of the second component with respect to the first component based at least in part on the received unique vehicle identifier.
US08886344B2 Exchange of metadata between a live sound mixing console and a digital audio workstation
A system for transferring metadata between an audio mixing console and a digital audio workstation connected by an audio link and a computer network. The audio mixing console and the digital audio system implement an Ethernet-based communication protocol for sending messages between them over the network connection, the messages including metadata specifying a plurality of settings on the audio mixing console corresponding to audio information received by the audio mixing console during a live performance. The audio information is sent to the digital audio system over the high bandwidth connection. The high bandwidth connection can also be used to transfer the metadata. The transfer of metadata between the console and the digital audio workstation facilitates new digital audio archiving, virtual live mixing, and virtual soundcheck workflows.
US08886341B1 Adaptive sample-by-sample controller for under-determined systems
A device and method to adapt a model in a underdetermined adaptive system that provides an output in response to an input. A controller provides parameters to the model in a transceiver system, composed of linearizers, equalizers, or estimators as a function of an error signal. The controller and the model parameters are manipulated to allow agnosticism with respect to input signals or model complexity, enabling robust operation and efficient implementation.
US08886340B2 Method and apparatus for retaining medical implants within body vessels
The present application describes a retention device for anchoring a medical device within the vasculature. The device may include expandable member coupled to an intravascular medical device and proportioned for receipt within a vessel. At least a portion of the expandable member is expandable to radially engage a vessel wall and to thereby retain the medical device within the vessel. The system is suitable for a variety of intravascular devices, including but not limited to ICD's, pacemakers, and intravascular drug delivery systems.
US08886338B2 Multi-durometer reinforced suture sleeve
A suture anchor for securing a therapy delivery element in a desired location within a living body using a suture material. The suture anchor includes an inner sleeve with a primary lumen sized to receive the therapy delivery element. The inner sleeve includes a compliant material having a first durometer. An anchor body extends around at least a portion of the inner sleeve and includes a portion of the primary lumen. The anchor body includes a compliant material having a second durometer less than the first durometer. At least one exterior suture groove is located on the anchor body to receive the suture material. The exterior suture groove extends substantially to the inner sleeve so the suture material engages directly with the inner sleeve.
US08886335B2 Implantable leads with a low profile distal portion
A stimulation lead includes an elongate body having a proximal portion and a distal portion and has a multilumen tube extending along the elongate body and defining a central lumen and a plurality of peripheral lumens disposed circumferentially around the central lumen; a plurality of conductors, at least one of the conductors extending along the central lumen and a remainder of the conductors extending along the plurality of peripheral lumens with at least one of the conductors in each peripheral lumen; a plurality of terminals disposed along the proximal portion of the elongate body and electrically coupled to proximal ends of the conductors; and a plurality of electrodes disposed along the distal portion of the elongate body and electrically coupled to distal ends of the conductors. Each of the conductors is coupled to at least one terminal and at least one electrode.
US08886334B2 Systems, methods, and devices using stretchable or flexible electronics for medical applications
System, devices and methods are presented that integrate stretchable or flexible circuitry, including arrays of active devices for enhanced sensing, diagnostic, and therapeutic capabilities. The invention enables conformal sensing contact with tissues of interest, such as the inner wall of a lumen, a nerve bundle, or the surface of the heart. Such direct, conformal contact increases accuracy of measurement and delivery of therapy.
US08886332B2 Visualizing tissue activated by electrical stimulation
A visualization of an area or volume of tissue activated during stimulation according to a set of stimulation parameters is generated. The area or volume of activation is modeled based on a non-uniform grid of model neurons. Select portions of the grid have the model neurons more closely spaced, resulting in finer resolution graphical representation, while less closely spaced model neurons in other portions of the grid may avoid additional computation time.
US08886331B2 Apparatus and methods for percutaneous cochlear implantation
A method and apparatus of percutaneous cochlear implantation (PCI). In one embodiment, the method includes the steps of (a) implanting a plurality of anchor members in a skull of a patient surrounding an ear of the patient, (b) attaching a docking frame to the plurality of anchor members, wherein the docking frame has a docking platform and a plurality of fiducial members, (c) acquiring a computed-tomography (CT) image of an area of the patient's head including the ear and the plurality of fiducial members, (d) determining a centroid of each of the plurality of fiducial members and a trajectory for a PCI according to the CT image, (e) configuring a parallel robot by a computer processor according to the CT image such that a top platform of the parallel robot is aligned with the trajectory with respect to the centroids of the plurality of fiducial members, (f) attaching the configured parallel robot to the docking frame, and (g) performing the PCI using one or more surgical tools received by the top platform of the parallel robot.
US08886325B2 Implantable neurostimulator with integral hermetic electronic enclosure, circuit substrate, monolithic feed-through, lead assembly and anchoring mechanism
An implantable medical device is provided for the suppression or prevention of pain, movement disorders, epilepsy, cerebrovascular diseases, autoimmune diseases, sleep disorders, autonomic disorders, abnormal metabolic states, disorders of the muscular system, and neuropsychiatric disorders in a patient. The implantable medical device can be a neurostimulator configured to be implanted on or near a cranial nerve to treat headache or other neurological disorders. One aspect of the implantable medical device is that it includes an electronics enclosure, a substrate integral to the electronics enclosure, and a monolithic feed-through integral to the electronics enclosure and the substrate. In some embodiments, the implantable medical device can include a fixation apparatus for attaching the device to a patient.
US08886322B2 System for stimulating a hypoglossal nerve for controlling the position of a patient's tongue
A system for controlling a position of a patient's tongue includes attaching at least one electrode to the patient's Hypoglossal nerve and applying an electric signal through the electrode to at least one targeted motor efferent located within the Hypoglossal nerve to stimulate at least one muscle of the tongue. The system may also include the use of more than one contact to target more than one motor efferent and stimulating more than one muscle. The stimulation load to maintain the position of the tongue may be shared by each muscle. The position of the patient's tongue may be controlled in order to prevent obstructive sleep apnea.
US08886305B2 Ventricular heart stimulator
The invention relates to an implantable ventricular heart stimulator (10), comprising an at least partially electrically conductive housing (12), an electrode line terminal for connection of a ventricular defibrillation electrode line (20) and a terminal for a defibrillation electrode (26). According to the invention, the heart stimulator has a far-field electrocardiogram detection unit (70) which has a first input connected to the terminal for the ventricular defibrillation electrode and has a second input connected to the electrically conductive housing and designed or configured to generate a far-field electrocardiogram on the basis of the electric potentials applied to the two inputs during operation. The inventive heart stimulator also has a far-field electrocardiogram evaluation unit (72) which is connected to the far-field electrocardiogram detection unit and is designed to detect signal features characteristic of atrial depolarizations in a far-field electrocardiogram generated by the far-field electrocardiogram detection unit.
US08886303B1 Pre-sutured anchor for implantable leads
A pre-sutured anchor including a deformable anchor sleeve with a lumen sized to receive the therapy delivery element. An outer surface of the anchor sleeve including one or more annular compression grooves oriented generally co-axial to the lumen. At least one compression member is located in a compression groove in an open configuration. The compression member includes at least one stop. A suture material pre-tied in a self-locking compression knot extends around each compression member. The suture material includes distal ends adapted to receive a tension force that is transmitted as a radial compression force to deform the compression members and substantially engage the stop in a compressed configuration. The anchor sleeve compressively engages the therapy delivery element in the compressed configuration.
US08886301B2 Impedance devices for obtaining conductance measurements within luminal organs
Impedance devices for obtaining conductance measurements within luminal organs. In at least one embodiment of an impedance device of the present disclosure, the device, comprises an elongated body and an detector positioned upon the elongated body, the detector comprising at least five electrodes and configured to obtain one or more conductance measurements generated using a first arrangement of four of the at least five electrodes and further configured to obtain one or more fluid velocity measurements using a second arrangement of four of the at least five electrodes when the elongated body is positioned within a fluid environment of a mammalian luminal organ, wherein the first arrangement is different from the second arrangement.
US08886299B2 System and method for the analysis of electrocardiogram signals
A microprocessor configured to receive and process digitized signals derived from an analogue ECG signal is provided. An example microprocessor comprises a beat detection unit configured to receive the in-phase and quadrature phase band power signals, calculate a band power value and an adaptive threshold value, and compare said band power value with said adaptive threshold value to detect a QRS complex of the ECG signal indicative of a detected valid beat; and an R peak detection unit configured to receive the digital ECG signal and information about the detected valid beat, select a portion of the received ECG signal as a first time window around the detected valid beat; determine the location of a first R peak position; and perform a time domain search in a second time window around said first R peak position in order to refine the location of an R peak position.
US08886298B2 Recall device
A small wearable recall device is provided to capture images triggered by a combination of a detection of a capture condition (e.g., changes in motion, temperature or light level) followed by a relatively stable period, as detected by an accelerometer. By triggering on the combination of a detected capture condition followed by a detected stability condition, a clearer image of the environment of an interesting event is expected to be captured. The small size of the recall device makes it possible to integrate it into common portable consumer products, such as MP3 players, purses, clothing, hats, backpacks, necklaces, collars, and other human-wearable products.
US08886296B2 T-wave oversensing
The present disclosure is directed to the classification of cardiac episodes using an algorithm. In various examples, an episode classification algorithm evaluates electrogram signal data to determine whether T-wave oversensing has occurred. The T-wave oversensing analysis may include, for example, identifying beat runs within the cardiac episode whether the beats within the run have at least one characteristic that alternates beat to be or clustering beats within the cardiac episode based on beat to beat interval length. The T-wave oversensing determination may be based on probabilistic analysis in some examples.
US08886290B2 Method and system for determining placement of a tracheal tube in a subject
According to various embodiments, a tracheal tube may employ optical sensing techniques for determining a distance between the inserted tube and an anatomical structure, such as a carina. The distance information may provide an indication as to whether or not the tracheal tube is properly placed within the trachea. The optical techniques may include backscattered intensity measurements.
US08886283B1 3D and 4D magnetic susceptibility tomography based on complex MR images
Magnetic susceptibility is the physical property for T2*-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (T2*MRI). The invention relates to methods for reconstructing an internal distribution (3D map) of magnetic susceptibility values, χ (x,y,z), of an object, from 3D T2*MRI phase images, by using Computed Inverse Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CIMRI) tomography. The CIMRI technique solves the inverse problem of the 3D convolution by executing a 3D Total Variation (TV) regularized iterative convolution scheme, using a split Bregman iteration algorithm. The reconstruction of χ (x,y,z) can be designed for low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass features by using a convolution kernel that is modified from the standard dipole kernel. Multiple reconstructions can be implemented in parallel, and averaging the reconstructions can suppress noise. 4D dynamic magnetic susceptibility tomography can be implemented by reconstructing a 3D susceptibility volume from a 3D phase volume by performing 3D CIMRI magnetic susceptibility tomography at each snapshot time.
US08886275B2 Encapsulated electronics
An eye-mountable device includes an electrochemical sensor embedded in a polymeric material configured for mounting to a surface of an eye. The electrochemical sensor includes a working electrode and a reference electrode that reacts with an analyte to generate a sensor measurement related to a concentration of the analyte in a fluid to which the eye-mountable device is exposed. An example assembly process includes: forming a sacrificial layer on a working substrate; forming a first layer of a bio-compatible material on the sacrificial layer; providing an electronics module on the first layer of the bio-compatible material, forming a second layer of the bio-compatible material to cover the electronics module; and annealing the first and second layers of the bio-compatible material together to form an encapsulated structure having the electronics module fully encapsulated by the bio-compatible material.
US08886271B2 Non-invasive physiological sensor cover
A sensor cover according to embodiments of the disclosure is capable of being used with a non-invasive physiological sensor, such as a pulse oximetry sensor. Certain embodiments of the sensor cover reduce or eliminate false readings from the sensor when the sensor is not in use, for example, by blocking a light detecting component of a pulse oximeter sensor when the pulse oximeter sensor is active but not in use. Further, embodiments of the sensor cover can prevent damage to the sensor. Additionally, embodiments of the sensor cover prevent contamination of the sensor.
US08886270B2 Syringe-based whispering gallery mode microresonator microfluidic biochem sensor
A syringe-based whispering gallery mode sensor includes a syringe including an assembly provided its needle, the assembly including (1) an optical carrier having a reflective distal end, and (2) at least one resonator coupled with the optical carrier. This sensor may be provided in a system including a light source, a light detector, and a data analysis component. A method for determining the presence or concentration of a target substance in body fluid may be performed using such a system.
US08886262B2 Method for operating a wireless radio network and a network
For allowing a particularly economic operation of a network with a high degree of energy conservation a method for operating a wireless radio network, especially a radio access network, is claimed, wherein the wireless radio network includes a core network, a number of base stations and at least one mobile host for wireless communication via at least one base station, wherein the method is characterized in that an association of powered on and powered off base stations within definable base station partitions will be arranged in a coordinated manner, thereby maintaining a minimum number or the smallest possible number of powered on base stations being necessary for accommodating a current traffic demand. Further, a network is claimed, preferably for carrying out the above mentioned method.
US08886253B2 Method to control a multiradio RF platform
Method, apparatus, and computer program product example embodiments are disclosed for cognitive radio systems and methods employing software defined radio techniques to control and configure multiradio hardware in wireless communications. The example embodiments provide a virtualized RF platform for RF configuration and system level performance optimization. The example embodiments may be flexibly distributed between system, protocol, and hardware dependent functions. The example embodiments enable transport independent usage of RF to support multiple concurrent data flows and to support local decisions as to which protocols to use to fulfill application level connectivity demands. The example embodiments allow mutual assistance in protocol selection, independent of the underlying platform implementation. The example embodiments provide a hardware control scheme using a hardware manager, a cognitive hardware engine, resource allocation, and resource performance estimation to enable a logical separation of implementation dependent functions from protocol stacks. The example embodiments may be described by means of a layered structure that allows local optimization and efficient resource sharing and that has all needed functionalities required for generalizing the control of virtually any kind of RF operation, including cognitive radio applications.
US08886252B2 Method and apparatus for automatically changing operating modes in a mobile device
A method and system for automatically changing the operating mode of a mobile device in response to changes in positioning or the use of the device includes multiple sensors that provide information relating to the mobile device and its environment. The sensors determine positioning information, incident light intensity, and object proximity and detect the presence of a pointer device. The system monitors the sensors and applications executed by the operating system. Based on the monitoring, the system changes the operating mode of the mobile device.
US08886250B2 Channel quality reporting for different types of subframes
A method for determining channel quality estimates of two or more types of subframes, such as clean and unclean subframes, may be applicable to both legacy and newer user equipment. A first base station affects a channel quality measurement by either transmitting dummy signals over designed tones that correspond to a second base station, or by puncturing transmissions during designated tones that correspond to the second base station.
US08886240B2 System and method for assessing noise floor data using radio blocking performance
An electronic device includes communications circuitry configured to communicate with an assistance server. The electronic device transmits a spectrum access request to the assistance server and receives, in response, an available channel list ranked by respective aggregate noise floor metric values from the assistance server. The aggregate noise floor metric value for each channel in the ranked channel list is determined by the server to account for a location of the electronic device, noise from radio frequency devices, and an adjacent channel blocking profile of the communications circuitry.
US08886239B2 Buffer status report control for creating transmission gaps
A method for wireless communication modifies an actual buffer status report value to create a modified buffer status report that is reported to a base station. The modified buffer status report value results in the base station sending fewer uplink grants to a user equipment. The fewer grants result in transmission gaps in a first radio access technology of the user equipment. The user equipment may use those transmission gaps in the first radio access technology to communicate using a second radio access technology.
US08886237B2 Smart antenna with multiple round selection
A smart antenna system for communicating wireless signals between a mobile device and a plurality of fixed base stations using different channels and beams. The system comprises a control subsystem, a radio transceiver and an antenna subsystem, providing a plurality of beams. Each beam has a main lobe, one or more nulls, and one or more lateral and back lobes with at least some attenuation, so as to reduce interference. The system performs scanning of different combinations of base stations, channels and beams using one or more test links established with one or more of the fixed base stations. The test links use at least some of the different channels and the different beams, select a first combination of base station, channel and beam based on the scanning, and establish a first operating link for transmitting a wireless signal to the selected base station using the selected channel and beam.
US08886221B1 Mobile device location estimation using local location data
Methods, program products, and systems of mobile device location estimation using local location data. For example, a method includes: detecting one or more wireless access gateways on a mobile device; for at least one detected gateway, determining whether or not the location data of the gateway exists on the device, the location data including one or more of: a location estimate of the gateway; an uncertainty value associated with the estimate; and a confidence value related to the likelihood that the gateway is stationary; determining whether or not a condition related to location estimation of the device is true; determining a location estimate of the device using the existing location data of the detected gateways on the device or other location estimation methods based on the determination of the condition.
US08886207B2 Frame structure for multi-hop relay in wireless communication systems
Implementations of systems and techniques for scheduling wireless transmission of data blocks between a base station (BS) and one or more relay stations (RSs) in a wireless relay communication network.
US08886205B2 Timing adjustment for synchronous operation in a wireless network
Techniques for adjusting transmit timing of base stations and user equipments (UEs) in a wireless network are described. In one operating scenario, a femto base station communicates with a femto UE, and a macro base station communicates with a macro UE located within the coverage of the femto base station. In an aspect, the transmit timing of the femto base station may be delayed relative to the transmit timing of the macro base station, e.g., to time align downlink signals from the femto and macro base stations at the femto and macro UEs. In another aspect, the transmit timing of the femto UE may be advanced relative to the transmit timing of femto base station by an amount larger than twice the propagation delay between the femto UE and the femto base station, e.g., to time align uplink signals from the femto and macro UEs at the femto base station.
US08886192B2 Communications system
A method performed by a EUTRAN base station, the method including generating a request for resource status information. The request defines a periodicity when update messages including said resource status information should be sent. The method further including sending the generated request to a neighboring EUTRAN base station, receiving one or more resource status update messages from the neighboring base station in response to the requested resource status information in accordance with said defined periodicity, and performing load balancing operations in dependence upon the received one or more resource status update messages.
US08886191B2 Methods and system for performing handover in a wireless communication system
A method and system for performing handover in a third generation (3G) long term evolution (LTE) system are disclosed. A source evolved Node-B (eNode-B) makes a handover decision based on measurements and sends a handover request to a target eNode-B. The target eNode-B sends a handover response to the source eNode-B indicating that a handover should commence. The source eNode-B then sends a handover command to a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU). The handover command includes at least one of reconfiguration information, information regarding timing adjustment, relative timing difference between the source eNode-B and the target eNode-B, information regarding an initial scheduling procedure at the target eNode-B, and measurement information for the target eNode-B. The WTRU then accesses the target eNode-B and exchanges layer 1/2 signaling to perform downlink synchronization, timing adjustment, and uplink and downlink resource assignment based on information included in the handover command.
US08886184B2 Method of performing cell reselection procedure in wireless communication system
A method of performing a cell reselection procedure in a wireless communication system includes evaluating priorities of a serving cell and neighbor cells, each of which use different frequency bands, performing inter-frequency measurement on a neighbor cell which has a higher priority than the serving cell, performing the inter-frequency measurement on a neighbor cell which has an equal or lower priority than the serving cell, when a signal characteristic of the serving cell is less than a threshold, and performing cell reselection according to the priorities.
US08886179B2 Fielded device failure tracking and response
A fault remediation system for fielded wireless mobile devices addresses field failure data collection, consolidation of field failure data, and an information services platform so that the players in a wireless/mobile broadcast/broadband application/service value chain to respond to field failure problems in a consistent and automated manner from wireless/mobile devices over wireless multicast and or wireless broadband networks. An elegant and extremely flexible mechanism enables the failure data collection from a targeted set of wireless/mobile devices. In addition, sophisticated mechanisms identify targeted set of devices that should participate in field failure data collection based on user specified operational requirements (e.g., selected OEM, device configuration type, subscribers to a specific wireless broadband serve, failure occurrence certain time limits, etc.). The fault data logging on the mobile device is vertically integrated to allow diagnosis and assignment to a responsible party for fixing, testing, and release with subsequent certification and deployment.
US08886178B2 Location-based profile
A location determination subsystem of a mobile device can determine a location of the mobile device. A monitoring subsystem of the mobile device can be configured, using a profile, to monitor states of a wireless connection between the mobile device and a communications network. When the monitoring subsystem detects an interruption of the wireless connection, a virtual geofence can be constructed around the location of the mobile device when the interruption occurred. The geofence can indicate a boundary of an enclosed geographic area. The geofence can be associated with a diagnostics profile stored on the mobile device or dynamically retrieved from a server upon occurrence of the interruption. When the mobile device enters the area enclosed by the geofence, the monitoring subsystem can be configured using the diagnostics profile in anticipation of interruptions of connections. Information relating to the interruptions can be anonymously sent to a server for analysis.
US08886177B2 Measurement reporting of inter-rat cells of more than one rat in GERAN
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, are provided for measurement reporting In one aspect there is provided a method. The method may include receiving, at a user equipment from a base station, a first message providing one or more parameters for measurement reporting, selecting one or more first cells from among a plurality of cells, wherein the selecting is based on at least one comparison value determined based on at least one reporting threshold defined for at least one of a plurality of radio access technologies being used by at least one of the plurality of cells, wherein the at least one reporting threshold is further defined based on at least one measurement quantity used for the at least one of a plurality of radio access technologies, and sending, by the user equipment to the base station, one or more measurement results for the selected one or more first cells, the one or more measurement results included m the measurement report message, when the measurement report message lacks capacity to report valid measurement results for each of the plurality of cells, wherein the one or more results are included based on the at least one comparison value including the at least one reporting threshold. Related apparatus, systems, methods, and articles are also described.
US08886176B2 Mobile application traffic optimization
Systems and methods for mobile application traffic optimization are disclosed. In one aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure include a distributed proxy and cache system, including, a local proxy on a mobile device for intercepting a data request made via a mobile device, and a proxy server coupled to the mobile device and a content server to which the data request is directed. In one embodiment, the local proxy can forward the data request to the proxy server for transmission to the content server for a response to the data request. In addition, the proxy server sends the data request to the content server independent of activities on the local proxy and notifies the local proxy when changed or different content on the content server is detected for the data request. One embodiment of the distributed proxy and cache system further includes a cache shared between the local proxy and the proxy server and the component on the local proxy and is queried for a locally stored response to the data request prior to the data request being forwarded on to the proxy server.
US08886173B2 System and method for managing the resources of a secondary station in a mobile network
The invention relates to a method for operating a secondary station (110a, 110b), said secondary station (110a, 110b) comprising communication means for communicating with a primary station (100), the method comprising the step (a) of the secondary station (110a, 110b) signaling at least one preferred operating profile (S205) out of a plurality of available operating profiles in response to an event (S204).
US08886171B2 Communication link termination indication signal method and apparatus
Upon detecting at a two-way communication device that a communication link has been terminated, the two-way communication device can provide a unique corresponding signal (such as a unique audible signal) to indicate such termination. Pursuant to one approach, a plurality of such unique signals are available and a specific one of the available signals is selected for use in a given circumstance using a selection criteria of choice.
US08886168B2 Selective first delivery attempt (FDA) processing for text messages
Systems and methods are disclosed for selectively applying First Delivery Attempt (FDA) processing for text messages. A text message system in one embodiment includes a rules database that stores rules defining which text messages are authorized to be delivered using FDA processing. The text message system further includes a message processor that initially receives a text message, and determines whether to selectively apply FDA processing for a time period due to an occurrence of a triggering event. If selective FDA processing applies, then the message processor processes the rules in the rules database to determine whether the text message is authorized for FDA processing during the time period of selective FDA processing. If authorized, then the message processor forwards the text message to an FDA system for FDA processing. If not authorized, then the message processor forwards the text message to a store-and-forward system for store-and-forward processing.
US08886166B2 System to identify whether a text message is from a trusted source
The present invention concerns an apparatus comprising a first module and a second module. The first module may be configured to send a text message over a wireless network in response to one or more user keystrokes. The first module may generate a body of the text message and a security key to be transmitted along with the body of the text message. The second module may be configured to receive the body of the text message and the security key over the wireless network. The second module compares the security key to a set of known security keys to determine a match. A match indicates whether the text message was generated from a known sender. The first and second modules may be implemented as part of a portable device.
US08886164B2 Method and apparatus to perform secure registration of femto access points
Methods, apparatus, and systems to perform secure registration of a femto access point for trusted access to an operator-controlled network element. Method steps include establishing a security association for at least one said femto access point, making a request using the security association to an operator-controlled network element, which requests a secure registration credential from an authorizing component. The operator-controlled network element constructs a secure registration credential and sends the secure registration credential to the requesting femto access point, thus authorizing trusted access by the requesting femto access point to access operator-controlled network elements. Embodiments include establishing a security association via an IPsec security association received from a security gateway which is within an operator-controlled domain and using an operator-controlled database of IPsec inner addresses. In some embodiments the femto access point conducts message exchanges using one or more IMS protocols and components, including call session control function elements, which elements in turn may authorize a femto access point within the IMS domain, may or access non-IMS network elements for authorization.
US08886161B2 Methods and apparatus to discover spectrum usage of mobile carriers
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for discovering spectrum usage of mobile carriers. An example method includes extracting channel information from a plurality of messages transmitted to mobile devices over a wireless communications radio spectrum, identifying a mobile carrier based on the channel information, associating the channel information with a network parameter of the mobile carrier, and determining a channel usage characteristic associated with mobile carrier based on the channel information and the network parameter.
US08886160B2 System, terminal, and method for providing a service using near field communication
A terminal includes a data receiving unit to receive data from a first target terminal via near field communication (NFC); and a data processing unit to process service information from the data received from the data receiving unit. A method includes establishing a connection via NFC; receiving data via NFC; determining if a service is provided from the data; if a service is provided, determining if a service usage history information update is set; and if a service usage history information update is set, updating the service information of the provided service; and if the service usage history update is not set, initializing the service information. A system includes a terminal with NFC capability; a first target terminal with NFC capability, wherein the first target terminal provides the service.
US08886157B2 Mobile device having an emergency mode
Disclosed is an apparatus and method to locate a mobile device in an emergency situation. The mobile device includes a display device, a user interface to receive an emergency mode request from a user, and a processor. The processor may be configured to execute instructions to implement an emergency mode process based upon the receipt of the emergency mode request from the user. The emergency mode process is implemented to: monitor received signals to locate a base station, wherein, once a base station is located, a short emergency message is transmitted to the base station including the location of the mobile device. The emergency mode process is further implemented to: monitor received signals to receive an acknowledgement signal from the base station; and reduce a plurality of first non-essential functions of the mobile device to reduce power consumption.
US08886152B2 Emergency override of battery discharge protection
An apparatus, system and method for overriding battery discharge protection in a mobile communication device in the presence of an emergency communication. The method of overriding battery discharge protection in a mobile communication device comprises determining a measured battery voltage; determining an excess battery discharge condition, wherein further battery discharge will result in an impaired ability to recharge a battery; detecting an emergency communication state; disabling battery discharge protection in response to the emergency communication state; and continuing discharge of the battery.
US08886151B2 Receiving device and method for removing mismatch between signal paths in a low noise amplifier in wireless communication system, and low-power amplifier therefor
The present invention relates to a receiving device and method for removing a mismatch in a wireless communication system, and to a low noise amplifier (LNA) therefor. According to the present invention, the receiving method for removing the mismatch comprises the steps of: distinguishing the type of input signal received through a wireless network; controlling such that a common bias is applied to transistors within a low noise amplifier, if said input signal is a wideband signal; and outputting a signal from which said mismatch has been removed, by using a current mirror mode in which current paths within said low noise amplifier are crossed.
US08886149B2 Detection and mitigation of interference in a multimode receiver using variable bandwidth filter
Embodiments include a novel receiver architecture to optimize receiver performance in the presence of interference. In various embodiments, power estimation circuits are used to determine the exact nature of the interference and to optimize the performance correspondingly. Variable selectivity of at least one power estimation circuit is achieved using a filter with variable bandwidth, with power measurements taken using different bandwidth settings. Also, the actual method of optimizing the receiver performance is novel compared to the prior art in that the gain settings and the baseband filter order (stages to be used) will be optimized based on the nature of the interference as determined by the power detector measurements. For a device such as a cellular phone that operates in a dynamic and changing environment where interference is variable, embodiments advantageously provide the capability to modify the receiver's operational state depending on the interference.
US08886141B2 Semiconductor device and adjustment method therefor
Provided is a semiconductor device that is capable of performing background calibration during a reception operation without adversely affecting reception characteristics. During a reception operation, the semiconductor device detects a timing at which an invalid received signal occurs upon a gain change or a reception channel change and performs background calibration at the detected timing. In this instance, as the received signal is invalid, performing the calibration does not further decrease the substantial accuracy of reception. Moreover, an unnecessary signal component, which would arise when the background calibration is performed at fixed intervals, will not be generated as far as the background calibration is performed at random timing.
US08886137B2 Frequency tunable transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) antenna switch
A frequency tunable transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) antenna switch uses a tuned PIN diode RF switch topology (e.g. shunt, series or series-shunt). Frequency tunability may be provided for either a transmit or a receive port (or both) that is tuned by a quarter-wavelength transmission line. The quarter-wavelength (λc/4) line establishes a passband centered about a center frequency fc. An electronically tunable LC tank circuit adds capacitance to the switch impedance to shift the center frequency fc to lower frequencies and progressively narrow the passband with the addition of more capacitance. Transceiver units provided with frequency tunable Tx/Rx antenna switches can, for example, be used in a Master/Slave network in which multiple units communicate with each other or in an autonomous network in which each of the multiple units operate independently.
US08886130B2 Frequency control in a frequency shifting repeater
Aspects of a method and system for frequency control in a frequency shifting repeater are provided. In this regard, a reference frequency may be divided to generate a first pair of local oscillator (LO) signals, the first pair of LO signals may be divided to generate a second pair of LO signals. The two pairs of LO signals may be utilized to frequency shift a received signal for repeating the signal on a different frequency. The frequency shifted signal may be generated by down-converting the received signal utilizing the first pair of LO signals, up-converting the down-converted signal utilizing the second pair of LO signals, and combining the resulting up-converted signals. The reference frequency may be divided by a first scaling factor to generate the first pair of LO signal which, in turn, may be divided by a second scaling factor to generate the second pair of LO signals.
US08886127B2 Systems, methods and devices for providing feedback about a quality of communication between a device and a remote control
Systems, devices and methods provide feedback about the quality of communication between a device and a remote control. A wireless signal is sent between a controlled device and the remote control. The quality of the signal can be measured and reported to a user, installer, troubleshooter, customer service agent or other person in any manner. Quality may be determined based upon the strength of the received signal as well as the amount of noise that is present. The quality measurements provide feedback that allows a user, installer, customer service representative or other person to change the positions of the device or the remote control, or to take other actions based upon the quality of the wireless signal that is received.
US08886126B2 Resolution algorithms for multi-radio coexistence
Systems and methodologies are described herein that facilitate resolution between respective radios associated with a multi-radio wireless device. As described herein, various techniques can be utilized with a multi-radio coexistence manager and/or other suitable mechanisms associated with a wireless device to perform joint resolution for multiple associated radios, thereby providing performance enhancements over conventional piecewise radio resolution schemes. Various exhaustive, decoupled, and progressive radio resolution algorithms are provided herein, by which respective sets of parameters (e.g., transmit powers, interference targets, frequency sub-bands, radio frequency knob settings, etc.) can be selected for respective potentially conflicting radios to enable such radios to operate in coexistence. Further, techniques are provided herein for utilizing a graph theoretic algorithm for progressive radio resolution. In addition, a generic power resolution algorithm can be modified to provide support for multi-transmitter interference mechanisms by employing modifications such as joint power resolution and/or one-pass or iterative interference partitioning.
US08886118B2 Information exchange via bluetooth service discovery protocol service records
Methods and apparatuses for Bluetooth communications are disclosed. In one example, data is exchanged between Bluetooth devices utilizing Service Discovery Protocol service records.
US08886117B1 Through-the-earth (TTE) communication systems and methods
A through-the-earth (TTE) communication system has a transmitter that uses an electromagnetic antenna to propagate a magnetic communication signal through the earth. The antenna comprises a coil that is wrapped a core of magnetic material. The transmitter converts voice into a pulsed direct current (DC) signal that is applied to the coil of the antenna. The antenna transforms the pulsed DC signal into a pulsed DC magnetic field that propagates through the earth, and the DC magnetic field may pass through soil, water, or other substances within the earth. A receiver at the earth's surface or other location senses the pulsed magnetic field and converts the sensed magnetic energy into a voice signal.
US08886113B2 Centralized control of relay operation
Techniques for centralized control of relay operation are described. In an aspect, a designated network entity (e.g., a base station or a network controller) may control the operation of relay stations within its coverage area. The network entity may select certain user equipments (UEs) to be relay UEs that can serve as relay stations for other UEs, e.g., based on pathloss between the UEs and a base station, the locations of the UEs, battery power levels of the UEs, fairness considerations, etc. The network entity may also select a specific relay UE to serve as a relay station for a client UE desiring to communicate with a base station, e.g., based on pilot measurements from relay UEs for the client UE. The network entity may also control transmission of discovery pilots by relay UEs and/or client UEs for relay detection.
US08886097B2 Cleaning system control method, fixing device, and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A fixing device includes a rotary fuser member, a rotary pressure member, and a cleaning system. The rotary fuser member is subjected to heating. The rotary pressure member is disposed opposite the fuser member. The cleaning system includes a cleaning web, a feeding mechanism, a positioning mechanism, and a controller. The cleaning web is disposed adjacent to the pressure member to wipe the pressure member. The feeding mechanism is operatively connected to the cleaning web to feed a new, unused portion of the cleaning web toward the pressure member. The positioning mechanism is operatively connected to at least one of the cleaning web and the pressure member to position the cleaning web and the pressure member with respect to each other. The controller is operatively connected with the feeding mechanism and the positioning mechanism to control feeding and positioning of the cleaning web.
US08886092B2 Electrophotographic apparatus and process cartridge
An electrophotographic apparatus and a process cartridge include an electrophotographic photosensitive member; a developing unit; and a cleaning unit, wherein depressed portions separated from each other and satisfying conditions below are formed in the surface of the electrophotographic photosensitive member at a density of 10 or more per unit area of 1 cm2: a depth of the depressed portions is defined as Rdv[μm], a minor-axis diameter of the depressed portions is defined as Lpc[μm], a major-axis diameter of the depressed portions is defined as Rpc[μm], and an angle formed between a direction of a major-axis of each of the depressed portions and a direction of movement of the surface of the electrophotographic photosensitive member is defined as θ[°]. 5[°]≦θ[°]≦85[°] 0.3×P[μm]≦Rdv[μm]≦0.5×P[μm] 1.1×P[μm]≦Lpc[μm]≦1.5×P[μm] 50/Sin θ[μm]≦Rpc[μm]≦1500[μm]
US08886083B2 Image forming apparatus provided with developing unit detachably mountable therein
An image forming apparatus includes: a photosensitive drum; a developing unit; and a casing. The developing unit includes a developing agent bearing member having an axis defining a first side and a second side in an axial direction. The casing supports the photosensitive drum and the developing unit. The casing has an opening at a position corresponding to the first side. The developing unit is detachable from and attachable to the casing through the opening. The developing unit is movable selectively to one of a proximity position, a separated position, and a pivoted position where the developing agent bearing member is pivotally moved about a portion of the developing agent bearing member at the second side from the separated position in a direction away from the photosensitive drum. The developing unit is detachable from and attachable to the casing along the axial direction in a state where the developing unit is at the pivoted position.
US08886075B2 Spacing configuration for a process cartridge and an image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus may include a process cartridge, an apparatus body and a spacing member. The process cartridge may be detachably mountable to the apparatus body and include a photosensitive unit having a photosensitive member, a developing unit having a developing roller, and a driving input part into which a driving force from the apparatus body is configured to be inputted. The apparatus body may include a driving input member which is configured to input the driving force. Additionally or alternatively, the spacing member may be attached to the process cartridge and configured to space the photosensitive member and the developing roller. The spacing member may include a first cover part which is located between the driving input part and the driving input member and covers at least a portion of the driving input part.
US08886070B2 Fixing device for locally heating a fixing member and image forming apparatus incorporating the fixing device
A fixing apparatus includes a fixing member that fixes a toner image onto a recording medium, a first heater that locally heats the fixing member by providing heat only to a portion of the fixing member corresponding to the toner image, and a pressing member that presses a recording medium against the fixing member. A second heater is provided to heat the pressing member.
US08886067B2 Image forming apparatus for adjusting image forming conditions
An image forming apparatus in which an optical sensor for detecting an adjustment toner image of black color is disposed on an image bearing member and an optical sensor for detecting adjustment toner images of other colors is disposed on an intermediate transfer member. With this configuration, even if the adjustment toner images of black and other colors simultaneously pass through a transfer portion for black color to reduce downtime, it is possible to reduce an effect on the subsequent image caused by light irradiation from the optical sensor and, at the same time, to prevent adjustment toner images of other colors from being excessively retransferred to the image bearing member (for black color) due to discharge. Control is performed such that a voltage less than a discharge start voltage is applied.
US08886063B2 Image forming apparatus and method of controlling developing unit thereof
An image forming apparatus is provided. The image forming apparatus includes a developing unit which contains a mixture of toner and carrier, a toner sensor which is disposed in the developing unit, and a controller which determines a control voltage for the toner sensor using change information on a change in a quantity of electric charge which changes according to a time during which the image forming apparatus is used or paused, and drives the toner sensor using the determined control voltage and compensates for an output value of the toner sensor. Accordingly, toner can be prevented from being supplied excessively.
US08886059B2 Image forming device capable of preventing erroneous attachment of cartridge
An image forming device includes: a main casing; a support member; cartridges; and cover members. The support member is movable between an accommodated position within the main casing and a pulled-out position outside the main casing, the support member being formed with cartridge accommodating sections. Each cartridge is accommodated in the corresponding cartridge accommodating section so as to be detachable from the corresponding cartridge accommodating section when the support member is located at the pulled-out position, the cartridges being of different types. Each cover member is movable between an opening posture and a closing posture. The cover members are provided in correspondence with the cartridge accommodating sections, respectively. Each cover member is provided with a preventing unit that prevents any cartridges of types different from a type corresponding to the corresponding cartridge accommodating section from being accommodated into the corresponding cartridge accommodating section.
US08886058B2 Cycle slip reduction in coherent optical communications
Carrier phase estimation techniques are provided for processing a received optical signal having a carrier modulated according to a modulation scheme. First and second carrier phase estimation operations are performed on a digital signal derived from an optical carrier obtained from the received optical signal using coherent optical reception. The first carrier phase estimation operation tracks relatively fast phase variations of the optical carrier of the received optical signal to produce a first carrier phase estimation and the second carrier phase estimation operation tracks relatively slow phase variations of the optical carrier of the received optical signal to produce a second carrier phase estimation. A difference between the first and second carrier phase estimations is computed. Occurrence of a cycle slip is determined when the difference is greater than a threshold. A correction is applied to the first carrier phase estimation when the low pass filtered difference exceeds the threshold.
US08886057B2 Optical receiver, signal processor, and optical receiving method
An optical receiver includes a splitter that splits a local oscillator lightwave into a first local oscillator lightwave and a second local oscillator lightwave; a measurement unit that measures phase variation of the first local oscillator lightwave; a receiving unit that receives a signal lightwave and the second local oscillator lightwave and mixes these lightwaves and converts the mixed lightwaves into digital signal; a dispersion compensator that reduces chromatic dispersion of the digital signal; a phase processing unit that rotates phase of the dispersion-reduced signal based on the phase variation; and a discriminating unit that discriminates the phase-rotated signal.
US08886056B2 Apparatus for self-phase modulation noise calculation, apparatus for self-phase modulation noise elimination and optical coherent receiver
The present invention provides apparatus for self-phase modulation noise calculation, apparatus for self-phase modulation noise elimination and optical coherent receiver. The apparatus for calculation comprises: a signal receiver to receive an input signal; a calculator connected to the signal receiver to calculate a self-phase modulation noise at the current instant by using the signal powers of an input signal waveform at the current instant and at several sampling instants adjacent to the current instant. The embodiments of the present invention calculates the self-phase modulation noise at a certain instant by using the signal powers at a plurality of digital sampling periods before and after this instant, and when the apparatus is used to calculate the self-phase modulation noise of each of the sub-spans in an optical fiber transmission link, in case that the calculation precision is ensured, the granularity of the sub-spans may be reduced, thereby lowering the complexity of the calculation.
US08886050B2 Wavelength division multiplexing system, method and device for its residual dispersion compensation
The present invention provides a wavelength division multiplexing system and a method and device for its residual dispersion compensation, wherein the device for residual dispersion compensation of wavelength division multiplexing system comprises: a performance parameter detecting device for receiving and detecting performance parameter of receiving terminal optical signal and sending detecting result of the performance parameter to a central control device; the central control device for deciding a dispersion regulating mode of a tunable dispersion compensator according to the detecting result of the performance parameter and sending the dispersion regulating mode to a tunable dispersion compensator control device through control signaling; and the tunable dispersion compensator control device for receiving the control signaling sent by the central control device and adjusting dispersion compensation amount of the tunable dispersion compensator according to the control signaling in order to make residual dispersion of wavelength channels to satisfy requirements of dispersion tolerance of an optical receiver. Therefore, the present invention optimizes residual dispersion of each channel and solves the problem of transmission performance deterioration caused by residual dispersion of long distance optical transmission system.
US08886038B1 Weighted waveforms for improved jam code effectiveness
Various embodiments of the present invention relate to weighted waveforms for improved jam code effectiveness. In various examples, weighted waveforms for improved jam code effectiveness may be implemented in the context of systems, methods, computer program products and/or algorithms.
US08886037B2 Waveform reconstruction device, waveform reconstruction system, and waveform reconstruction method
Provided is a waveform reconstruction device capable of easily reconstructing an accurate time waveform of an optical signal without using an ultrafast time gate or a reference light source. A waveform reconstruction device (140) includes: a phase spectrum calculation unit (143) which (i) calculates a power spectrum of an output optical signal for each of a plurality of intensities of an input optical signal, when a phase spectrum of the input optical signal having the plurality of intensities is assumed to have a given phase spectrum, by simulating, using a parameter related to self-phase modulation of an optical fiber, propagation of the input optical signal through the optical fiber, and (ii) calculates, as the phase spectrum of the input optical signal, the given phase spectrum when a difference value between the calculated power spectrum and a measured power spectrum is equal to or less than a threshold value; and a waveform reconstruction unit (144) which reconstructs the time waveform of the input optical signal by performing frequency-time transform on the calculated phase spectrum and the power spectrum of the input optical signal.
US08886030B2 Imaging apparatus with display and image display apparatus
A digital camera is provided with a vertically long camera body having an approximately rectangular solid shape. An LCD panel provided in a rear surface of the camera body is arranged such that longitudinal directions of the display screen and the camera body correspond to each other. The digital camera is operated through a touch panel provided in a lower portion of the display screen. In a taking mode, an image is displayed in a small size on an upper portion of the display screen. In reproducing, the camera body is rotated sideways by 90 degree. In a reproducing mode, display posture of the image is also rotated by 90 degree, and the image is displayed in a large size on the entire display screen.
US08886025B2 Laser film heating apparatus
A heating apparatus includes a film feed mechanism, a laser light source, a laser irradiation component, and a laser controller. The film feed mechanism has a film contact surface that contacts with one surface of a film material, and moves the film material in the lengthwise direction of the film material. The laser irradiation component emits a laser beam toward the film contact surface. The film contact surface has a first contact surface and second contact surfaces, a material forming the first surface having a different thermal conductivity that a material forming the second surfaces. The second contact surfaces are disposed at positions that come into contact with the ends of the film material in the width direction, while the first contact surface is disposed between the second contact surfaces. The material forming the first contact surface has a lower thermal conductivity than the material forming the second contact surfaces.
US08886022B2 Picture interdependencies signals in context of MMCO to assist stream manipulation
In one embodiment, a method that provides tier information corresponding to a picture, the tier information provided in an adaptation field of a transport packet, the transport packet comprising a first byte of a header of a packetized elementary stream (PES) containing the picture; and provides the first transport packet.
US08886018B2 Image processing apparatus, processing method, and recording medium
The present invention comprises an input part for inputting image data, a receiving part for receiving production information relating to production transmitted from another apparatus, a recording part for recording the production information received by the receiving part and image data input by the input part, a detection part for detecting a recording position on a recording medium at an editing point of image data recorded by the recording part, and a transmission part for transmitting information of the recording position detected by the detection part, whereby identification information for identifying image data and voice data is recorded in a recording medium or a recording device, this relieving a burden on a photographer and an editor and facilitating extraction of image data and voice data.
US08886017B2 Display image generating method
An image processing apparatus including an input terminal that receives a plurality of image units that are temporally or spatially continuous; an image processing unit that performs image processing on the plurality of image units by iteratively performing the image processing on subsets of the plurality of image units; and a display image generating unit that controls a display to display the plurality of image units when the image processing unit begins performing the image processing; display, at a time of a completion of intermediate processing of a subset of the plurality of image units by the image processing unit, an intermediate processed image including the processed subset of the plurality of image data units; and display, after completion of the processing of the plurality of image units by the image processing unit, a complete processed image including the processed plurality of image data units.
US08886014B2 Video recording apparatus, scene change extraction method, and video audio recording apparatus
There are provided with a video recording apparatus and a scene change extraction method, by which a scene change can be extracted from a video while recording the video. The video recording apparatus 100 includes an encoder 101 for encoding video data PIN, an HDD 105 for storing an encoded stream outputted from the encoder 101, a stream controller 103 for transferring the encoded stream outputted from the encoder 101 to the HDD 105, a scene change extractor 110 for decoding the encoded stream outputted from the encoder 101 and extracting a scene change in the decoded video data, and a recording controller 102 for receiving an encoding-completion notification IEN on a unit-of-encoding basis of the encoded stream from the encoder 101 and outputting a scene change extraction instruction CSC to the scene change extractor 110.
US08886013B2 Device and method for preventing unauthorized reproduction of content
A device for reproducing a content having at least one reproduction start time predetermined, includes: a non-real time receiver for receiving a content in non-real time; a scheduler for scheduling reception of a content whose delivery method is non-real time delivery by the non-real time receiver based on a current time and a reproduction start time of the content; a content storage section for storing at least one content received by the non-real time receiver; and a reproduction controller for inhibiting reproduction of a content stored in the content storage section before the reproduction start time of the content.
US08886009B2 Creation of video bookmarks via scripted interactivity in advanced digital television
According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for creating and/or altering a video bookmark is described. The method comprises an operation of processing a request from a downloaded scripted object to create a video bookmark. The video bookmark may be information that is used for performing an action involving additional information related to the video content being played at a time of the request. Thereafter, the video bookmark is created based on the request.
US08886005B2 Adapter retaining systems
An adapter retaining system comprises an adapter, an adapter pack, and a retaining base. The retaining base allows the adapter pack to slide in a direction substantially parallel to a surface of the retaining base and prevents the adapter pack from moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the surface. In another embodiment, an adapter retaining system comprises an adapter, an adapter pack, and an adapter plate. The adapter pack rotates about an axis substantially perpendicular to a surface of the adapter plate. In another embodiment, an adapter retaining system comprises an adapter, an adapter pack, and an adapter plate having a curved adapter post. The adapter pack slidably engages the adapter post. In another embodiment, an adapter retaining system comprises an adapter, and an adapter plate having a pair of adapter posts. The adapter posts directly receive the adapter.
US08886004B2 Optical cable exit trough
A cable exit trough is mountable to a lateral trough section either during initial assembly of the cable routing system, or at a later date. The exit trough includes a bracket portion mountable to the top edge of one of the sides of the lateral trough section. Two lead-ins are provided to lead the cable in an upward direction from the lateral trough section to the exit trough. The exit trough includes an exit trough portion extending from the bracket portion upwardly away from the lateral trough section. The exit trough portion includes a convexly curved bottom trough surface, and two convexly curved upstanding sides. The exit trough portion and the lead-ins define a cable pathway from the lateral trough section to an exit point of the exit trough portion which can either lead downwardly relative to the lateral trough section or horizontally.
US08886001B2 Sensing device having a large diameter D-shaped optical waveguide
An optical sensor formed from an optical waveguide having at least one core surrounded by a cladding and a large diameter generally D-shaped portion is disclosed. Axial or compressive strain across the D-shaped cross section may be determined by measuring the change in polarization or birefringence of the light output from the sensor. A layer responsive to a parameter may be disposed on a flat portion of the D-shaped portion of the sensor. The refractive index of the layer changes and/or the layer applies a strain on the sensor in response to the parameter. Changes in the refractive index of the layer alters the light output from the sensor, which is measured over time and correlated to the parameter.
US08886000B2 Hybrid fiber-optic cable
A hybrid cable includes a cable jacket and elements stranded within the cable jacket. The elements include greater-capacity electrical-conductor elements and sub-assembly elements. The greater-capacity electrical-conductor elements include a metallic conductor jacketed in a polymer, each within the range of 10 American wire gauge (AWG) to 1\0 AWG. The sub-assembly elements include stranded combinations of sub-elements, where the sub-elements include at least one of polymeric tubes comprising optical fibers and lesser-capacity electrical-conductor elements, each having a lesser current-carrying capacity than 10 AWG. The sub-elements are stranded with respect to one another and additionally stranded as part of sub-assembly elements with respect to other elements.
US08885997B2 NED polarization system for wavelength pass-through
A system and method are disclosed for providing uniform color distribution of light emitted from a light source to an eye box in a near eye display (NED). An example of the system and method uses an optical element including two or more waveguides optimized to different colors of the visible light spectrum. The optical element further includes one or more polarization state generators for controlling the polarization of light incident on the waveguides to facilitate coupling of light into a matched waveguide, and to impede coupling of light into unmatched waveguides.
US08885996B2 Optical device with a CMOS-compatible echelle grating
An optical multiplexer/de-multiplexer (MUX/de-MUX) includes a two-dimensional pattern of features in a propagation region that conveys an optical signal having wavelengths. A given feature in this pattern has a characteristic length and the features have an average pitch, both of which are less than fundamental smallest of the wavelengths divided by an effective index of refraction of the propagation region. Moreover, an optical device in the optical MUX/de-MUX images and diffracts the optical signal using a reflective geometry, and provides the imaged and diffracted optical signal to output ports. For example, the optical device may include an echelle grating.