Document Document Title
US09156636B2 Sheet-supply tray device with upper sheet supply tray having leading-end stopper
A sheet-supply tray device for use with an image recording apparatus, includes a lower sheet-supply tray and an upper sheet-supply tray. The upper sheet-supply tray includes a main body, a leading-end stopper, a trailing-end stopper and a side-end stopper. The main body includes a support surface that supports a recording sheet. The leading-end stopper is fixed on the main body and stops a leading end of the recording sheet. The trailing-end stopper includes a trailing-end contact surface having a trailing-end protrusion extending over an upper surface of a trailing-end portion of the recording sheet toward the leading-end stopper. The trailing-end contact surface contacts a trailing end of the recording sheet. The side-end stopper includes a side-end contact surface that contacts a side end of the recording sheet. The side-end contact surface has at least one side-end protrusion extending over an upper surface of a side-end portion of the recording sheet.
US09156628B2 Sort systems and methods
Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for assisting sort operators in identifying the appropriate location to sort an item. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system for identifying a particular bin from a plurality of bins for sorting a package is provided. The system includes a plurality of bins configured to receive sorted packages; an optical reader positioned to capture destination indicia associated with the package; a keypad comprising a plurality of keys, where in at least some of the keys are associated with individual bins of the plurality of bins and at least some of the keys include lights; and a control system. The control system is configured to: receive data from the optical reader relating to the destination indicia; identify a particular bin within the plurality of bins associated with the received data; and trigger illumination of one or more lights on the keypad.
US09156627B2 Clutch/brake unit for an accumulating conveyor
A clutch/brake unit for an accumulating conveyor for driving and for braking at least one roller which is provided for transporting a unit load on a roller path of the accumulating conveyor. The clutch/brake unit is driven continuously during operation via an endless drive traction mechanism on a driving roller and is configured, in an engaged operating state, for transmitting the rotational movement of the driving roller about an axis to a driven roller and, in a braking operating state, for slowing down the driven roller on a housing of the clutch/brake unit. The driven roller is connected to the roller via the endless traction mechanism. A compression spring displaces the driven roller along the axis in the direction of the housing in order to shift the clutch/brake unit into its braking operating state. A piston/cylinder unit integrated in the clutch/brake unit displaces the driven roller along the axis in the direction of the driving roller in order to shift the clutch/brake unit into its engaged operating state.
US09156626B2 Work method and work device
High precision work is performed on a work target (workpiece) during conveyance, irrespective of the oscillations accompanying conveyance. A work method includes steps of: predicting a predicted oscillation pattern occurring in a workpiece (W) afterwards from the measurement results of oscillation occurring in the workpiece (W) during conveyance by way of a workpiece conveyance device (2); controlling a robot (131) so as to operate at an oscillation according to the predicted oscillation pattern thus predicted; detecting oscillation occurring in the robot (131) during the step of controlling; and comparing the oscillation occurring in the robot (131) with the predicted oscillation pattern, and in the case of differing, adjusting so that the oscillation of the robot (131) matches the predicted oscillation pattern, in which each of these steps is completed before the robot (131) performs work on the workpiece (W).
US09156625B2 Object detecting actuator and object detecting switch
An object detecting actuator and an object detecting switch with increased durability. The actuator in one embodiment includes a roller that receives a load of an external force; and a roller lever to which the roller is rotatably attached by means of a rotary shaft, the actuator being a displacement member that is displaced in accordance with the load of the force received by the roller, wherein the roller is constituted by a sintered body of stainless steel material impregnated with lubricating oil, and a density of the sintered body of stainless steel material is in a range of 6.45 to 6.7 g/cm3.
US09156621B2 Face conveyor for extraction plants and trough element for said face conveyor
A face conveyor includes a continuous conveyor formed by a conveyor chain with entrainment plates that are connected to chain links and which, when conveying, circulates in an outward run and a return run, each of which are guided in trough portions by trough elements, which are arranged in a row. Guides provided on each trough element include a first guide on a working face side and a second guide at a spacing from a goaf side. The first guide on the working face side is secured on the trough element between the outward run and the return run. The outward run and the return run extend in a laterally offset manner with respect to each other, and the trough portion guiding the entrainment plates in the outward run is open on the working face side.
US09156619B2 Belt conveyor device
A belt conveyor for a road-finishing machine or a charger. The belt conveyor includes a conveyor belt in which a displaceably mounted support element abuts the conveyor belt, and a first and a second piston cylinder unit operate to displace the support element. The first and the second hydraulic piston cylinder units can be pressurised independently of each other in order to move the support element into a desired inclined position. If the conveyor belt of the belt conveyor runs laterally away from the support element, the out-of-true running of the conveyor belt can be counteracted by an inclined position of the support element which moves the conveyor belt back into its original position.
US09156611B1 Front loading garbage truck
A front loading garbage truck with a unique packing blade that creates a self-cleaning garbage truck without the need for manual clean outs and construction for the accomplishment of same. The packing blade includes a top vertical portion that is in a fixed position and a second bottom vertical portion that is retractable into a horizontal position to allow for repeated pass-throughs to collect all debris prior to emptying the garbage from the truck. Additionally, a unique cab shield sits atop the cab portion that contains a plurality of holes on the sides and along the top sloping face to allow ventilation therethrough and prevent damage to the engine caused by excessive heat.
US09156607B2 Collapsible intermodal flat rack
A collapsible intermodal flat rack features a cargo deck with first and second arches pivotally mounted to the cargo deck. Each arch is provided with a crank mechanism including a gearbox having an input shaft and an output shaft. The output shaft is attached to the corresponding arch so that the arch may be moved between a storage position, where a top portion of the arch is located adjacent to the cargo deck, and a use position, where the top portion of the arch is elevated from the cargo deck, by actuation of the input shaft.
US09156605B2 Container for shipping fragile products and method for making the same
A container for transporting glass sheets includes a bottom structure, a back wall and first and second side walls coupled to the back wall, all three walls extending upwardly from the bottom structure. The container also includes a back support structure coupled to the back wall that is configured to constrain a plurality of glass sheets. The back support structure includes at least one back support member that extends in a substantially vertical direction and includes at least one offset member that includes a first/second side defining a first/second length extending inwardly a first/second distance from the back support member. The second length is greater than the first length. The back support structure also includes at least one foam rail coupled to a foam rail support member. The foam rail support member is coupled to the offset member.
US09156590B2 System, method and apparatus for disposable receptacle for refuse
A receptacle assembly has an outer member having an open top, an interior and an exterior. The outer member may be formed from biodegradable material. An inner member may be mounted in the interior of the outer member with adhesive between exterior surfaces of the inner member and the interior of the outer member. The inner member has an open top and is formed from biodegradable material.
US09156577B2 Synthetic resin bottle
A biaxially stretched, blow molded synthetic resin bottle with a bottom includes a sunken bottom portion that is capable of drawing upward in a reversible manner, when internal pressure goes down. This sunken bottom portion includes an inner peripheral wall portion standing from near an inner edge of a ground contact portion disposed along a peripheral foot, a central concave portion disposed at a center of the bottom, a reversible wall portion in a flat ring shape, which is reversibly deformable into an upward drawing state and which connects an upper end of the inner peripheral wall to the base of the central concave portion, and a circular rib wall portion disposed at a connection between the reversible wall portion and the upper end of the inner peripheral wall portion so as to perform the function as a peripheral rib.
US09156576B2 Safety chamber
An arrangement is provided to prevent emissions of hydrogen peroxide from a packaging machine forming sealed packaging containers from a packaging material web. The packaging machine has a sterilization portion comprising an inlet chamber, a peroxide bath and an aseptic chamber. The aseptic chamber is held at an overpressure while the inlet chamber is held at an underpressure during normal operation of the packaging machine. The peroxide bath functions as a seal between the inlet chamber and the aseptic chamber. A safety chamber placed in front of the inlet chamber is held at an underpressure to avoid peroxide emissions to the environment. The packaging material web will pass the safety chamber before going into the inlet chamber.
US09156571B2 Adjustable surgical instrument stringer with pegs, tray system, and method of sterilization
An adjustable stringer configured to string the ring handles of one or more surgical instruments, the stringer including two or more rod sections, wherein each rod section is configured to be inserted in one ring handle of the one or more surgical instruments, two or more angle sections, each angle section configured having one or more slidable connector sections, each slidable connector section configured to extend and retract along at least one of the two or more rod sections, and two or more releasable connectors, each releasable connector positioned between two of the two or more angle sections.
US09156570B2 Method of forming U-shaped insert and inserting about goods in container
End of arm tool (10) is used to load goods A and B in two layers in a packing container (8), with a packing insert positioned between the layers. The tool (10) also grasps a packing insert in the form of a flat sheet, bends the ends of the packing sheet downwardly to form an inverted U shape, and then inserts the packing insert in a straddling relationship about the lower layer of goods A, to protect the lower layer of goods from the weight applied by the upper layer of goods B.
US09156561B2 System and method for preventing objects from entering the intake of a jet engine
A system for preventing objects from entering the intake of a jet engine including a deflector mounted to the turbine shaft and including a de-icing device to minimize collection of ice on the deflector. The deflector includes a sensor in one embodiment for measuring object strikes so that comprehensive impact data may be obtained to generate an impact report so that measures can be taken to minimize object impacts.
US09156558B2 Inflatable personal restraint systems
An electronic module assembly (EMA) for use in controlling one or more personal restraint systems. A programmed processor within the EMA is configured to determine when a personal restraint system associated with each seat in a vehicle should be deployed. In addition, the programmed processor is configured to perform a diagnostic self-test to determine if the EMA and the personal restraint systems are operational. In one embodiment, results of the diagnostic self-test routine are displayed on a display included on the electronic module assembly. In an alternative embodiment, the results of the diagnostic self-test routine are transmitted via a wireless transceiver to a remote device. The remote device can include a wireless interrogator or can be a remote computer system such as a cabin management computer system.
US09156556B2 Method and device for using hot air to de-ice the leading edges of a jet aircraft
A de-icing device includes a hot air circuit including an inlet for hot air bled from an engine, and a duct connecting the inlet to an outlet of the circuit which opens towards the leading edge. The device also includes electrical heating means associated with the duct, and control means for controlling the heating means connected to detection means that detect the temperature of the hot air downstream of the heating means and are able to activate these if the detected temperature of the bled air is below a value corresponding to a minimum temperature required for de-icing, increased by a predetermined margin. The range of temperatures of the hot air supplied to the leading edge is lowered overall, whereas the minimum de-icing temperature is assured. Composite materials can be used near the leading edge without being damaged.
US09156546B2 Active-inceptor tactile-cueing hands-off rate-limit
The system contains the active inceptor having mobility in a first direction. A feedback mechanism is in communication with the active inceptor. The mechanism provides a variable level of force to the active inceptor in the first direction. A programmable device communicates with the feedback mechanism. The programmable device controls the level of force provided to the active inceptor from the feedback mechanism. The programmable device is capable of recognizing and distinguishing between regimes wherein the operator is physically engaging the inceptor (“hands-on” state) and when the operator is “hands-off” the inceptor. The programmable device limits the maximum rate of displacement of an active inceptor to a specified safe and effective value regardless of changes in forces applied by the variable force feel feedback mechanism. The limit on rate of change of active inceptor position is varied based on the recognized “hands-on” or “hands-off” state and the type of tactile cue to satisfy otherwise conflicting requirements for failure robustness and effective tactile cueing during highly dynamic operations.
US09156542B2 System for piloting an aircraft provided with a performance functions server
A piloting system including a performance functions server which is linked to all the computers of the piloting system, which hosts all the performance functions of the piloting system and which is able to supply the results of performance functions to at least said computers of the piloting system.
US09156524B2 Derailleur
A derailleur comprises a base member, a movable member, a link member, and a biasing mechanism. The movable member is configured to be movable with respect to the base member between a retracted position and an extended position. The link member is configured to movably couple the movable member to the base member. The biasing mechanism is configured to bias the link member such that the movable member is disposed at one of the retracted position and the extended position. The biasing mechanism comprises a biasing member and an intermediate member. The biasing member has a first end portion. The intermediate member is separately provided from the movable member and the link member so as to transmit biasing force of the biasing member from the first end portion to one of the movable member and the link member through the intermediate member.
US09156523B2 Hydraulic brake adjusting device
A hydraulic brake adjusting device is provided. The mechanical advantage may be automatically increased by pressed the handlebar by riders and then increased the angle lead by the leading plate(s). Thereby, it may simplify structure, be easy to operate, and be capable of automatically adjusting mechanical advantage while riding. Furthermore, the distance between the O-ring on the tube and the through hole of the piston may be adjusted by the screw barrel to make the convex portion push against the tube, the piston, and the push rod.
US09156514B2 Adjustment device for adjusting the position of a windscreen
An adjustment device for adjusting a windscreen of a vehicle, in particular of a motorcycle, is provided. A windscreen holder is connectable to the windscreen. A carrier structure is fastenable on the vehicle. A slider crank is connected to the carrier structure in a pivotable manner about a first pivot axis and to the windscreen holder in a pivotable manner about a second pivot axis. A linear guide is provided, wherein the windscreen holder is guided by a pivot bearing arrangement in a linearly movable manner in a longitudinal direction of the linear guide and is pivotable about a third pivot axis. The first pivot axis, the second pivot axis and the third pivot axis are oriented parallel to one another.
US09156508B2 Vehicle rear spoiler device
Provided is a vehicle rear spoiler device to be mounted on a rear side of a roof of a vehicle. The vehicle rear spoiler device includes a wall surface for forming an air flow path between the wall surface and a rear window glass of the vehicle. A part of an air current moving rearward along a roof surface of the roof during traveling is caused to pass through the air flow path as a downward current toward the rear window glass. The wall surface is formed to gradually widen the air flow path in a manner that an outflow width of an outlet on the rear window glass side in the air flow path is larger than an inflow width of an inlet on the roof side in the air flow path.
US09156506B2 Elastically averaged alignment system
An elastically averaged alignment system includes a first alignment portion comprising an alignment member and a first plurality of elastically deformable alignment elements. The alignment system also includes a second alignment portion comprising an elastically deformable alignment member configured and disposed to be received by and deformably and matingly engaged with the alignment member and a second plurality of elastically deformable alignment elements configured and disposed to deformably and matingly engage the first plurality of deformable alignment elements, wherein the engagement of the alignment member and deformable member and first plurality of elastically deformable alignment elements and the second plurality of elastically deformable alignment elements elastically average a predetermined position of the second alignment portion relative to the first alignment portion.
US09156494B2 Vehicle steering systems
A steering system for a vehicle includes a sector shaft defining a bore therein and rotatable about a central longitudinal axis. The steering system also includes a lash adjuster translatable within the bore along the central longitudinal axis. In addition, the steering system includes an end cap cover abutting the lash adjuster and spaced apart from the sector shaft to define a first cavity between the end cap cover and the sector shaft, and a housing abutting the end cap cover and spaced apart from the sector shaft to define a second cavity between the housing and the sector shaft. The steering system also includes a seal surrounding and abutting the sector shaft, wherein the seal separates the first cavity from the second cavity.
US09156487B1 Kneeling wheelbarrow
A wheelbarrow that can transition from a conventional wheelbarrow configuration to a loading platform that places a wall of the carrier flat on the ground to facilitate placing an object or objects on it without requiring lifting, and then transition back to conventional Wheelbarrow configuration using mechanical advantage.
US09156485B1 Leverage cart assembly
A leverage cart assembly is used to lift and move a load. The leverage cart assembly has a load plate that is coupled to a support framework. The load to be lifted is placed on the lift plate and is strapped to the support framework. A hand truck assemblage is provided that is used to raise and lower the load plate, the support framework, and the attached load. The hand truck assemblage includes a cart framework that is supported on wheels. At least one lift plate extends from the cart framework and engages the load plate with a hinged connection. As the hand truck assemblage is tilted, the lift arm inclines. This elevates the load plate and the load. However, due to the hinge connection, the orientation of the load plate relative the load remains constant as the load plate and load are lifted.
US09156481B1 Locomotive blue light reverser key
A locomotive blue light reverser key has a handle portion and a shaft portion that is connected to the handle portion. The handle portion includes a Light Emitting Diode (LED), a switch, a battery that powers the LED, and a blue tinted lens. The shaft portion is insertable into a reverser of a locomotive. During a blue signal procedure when the train is not permitted to move, a train operator uses the blue light reverser key to indicate the blue signal procedure is in effect. The train operator activates the LED on the handle portion and inserts the blue light reverser key into the reverser. The shaft portion does not engage any locking mechanism within the reverser, and the reverser key prevents the locomotive from moving forward or backward. The blue light emitted from the blue light reverser key also notifies other train operators of the blue signal procedure.
US09156474B2 Jurisdiction-aware function control and configuration for motor vehicles
Apparatus for a motor vehicle comprises a location monitor for determining vehicle coordinates for an instantaneous vehicle position within a predetermined reference system. A jurisdictional map database is provided for relating a plurality of jurisdictions to corresponding ranges of coordinates in the predetermined reference system. A regulation database is provided for relating a plurality of vehicle functions to corresponding parametric limitations for respective jurisdictions. A user interface is coupled to the regulation database for configuring at least one of the parametric limitations. A controller is coupled to the location monitor, the jurisdictional map database, and the regulation database for identifying a current jurisdiction in response to the vehicle coordinates, identifying at least one vehicle function having a parametric limitation for the current jurisdiction, and modifying the action of the identified vehicle function to comply with the respective parametric limitation.
US09156473B2 Multi-threshold reaction zone for autonomous vehicle navigation
Systems and methods use cameras to provide autonomous navigation features. In one implementation, a driver assist navigation system for a primary vehicle may include at least one image capture device configured to acquire a plurality of images of an area in a vicinity of the primary vehicle; a data interface; and at least one processing device. The at least processing device may be configured to: receive the plurality of images via the data interface; identify a target object within the plurality of images; monitor, via the plurality of images, a motion of the target object and a distance between the primary vehicle and the target object; determine an indicator of an intercept time between the primary vehicle and the target object based on the monitored motion and the distance between the primary vehicle and the target object; and cause a response in the primary vehicle based on a comparison of the intercept time to a plurality of predetermined intercept thresholds.
US09156470B2 Control strategy to alter available wheel power in a vehicle
A hybrid electric vehicle includes an engine and an electric machine for providing propulsion forces to wheels of the vehicle. In an electric-only propulsion mode, the engine is disabled and the electric machine acts as the power source for the wheels. In a hybrid propulsion mode, the engine is activated to act as an additional power source for the wheels. At least one controller along with a plurality of sensors and positional information devices activate an active safety control signal in response to objects surrounding the vehicle that pose a threat to a potential collision event. In response to the active safety control signal, the engine can be either automatically started or stopped to provide additional available power or a reduced available power, respectively.
US09156468B2 Control device for hybrid vehicle
Provided is a control device for a hybrid vehicle capable of attaining an assist torque generated by a clutch mechanism at an appropriate timing, upon starting the engine. Since an electronic control device outputs an engagement command for engaging a clutch (clutch mechanism) at a time preceding an (ignition) start command time for igniting an engine by a preceding-sending time, the clutch becomes engaged when the engine speed starts to increase, and the assist torque generated by the clutch mechanism can thus be obtained at an appropriate timing. Because the engine speed that was once increased upon starting the engine is not decreased, the energy that was consumed for starting the engine can be effectively used.
US09156465B1 Brake-assist-steering system
A method of operating a brake-assist-steering system of a vehicle comprises the steps of receiving a signal from a wheel position detector. A theoretical wheel speed for an inside non-steered wheel is computed. A brake operably associated with the inside non-steered wheel is actuated when an actual wheel speed of the inside non-steered wheel is greater than the theoretical wheel speed of the inside non-steered wheel.
US09156463B2 Vehicle and method for operating a vehicle
A vehicle has a drive train comprising a drive unit, a hydrostatic-mechanical power-split gear unit operatively connected to the drive unit and an output, and at least one braking device. An additional actuating device is allocated to the braking device and is operatively connected with a power request element and/or a driving direction selection element. Upon the presence of a deceleration of the vehicle requested by the driver through the power request element and/or the driving direction selection element and, the braking device is actuated to an extent that initiates a braking torque in the drive train. Upon the presence of a requested deceleration of the vehicle, a driving torque on the side of the drive unit is provided in the area of the output for a braking device that is not actuated by the driver. If the rotational speed of the drive unit exceeds a defined threshold of rotational speed, the braking device is operated to an extent that initiates a braking torque in the drive train.
US09156459B2 Vehicle brake system for a motor vehicle and method for actuating the vehicle brake system
A vehicle brake system having a hydraulically actuatable disc brake device which has an electromechanical operating device for activating a parking brake function, wherein the vehicle brake system has a hydraulic circuit with a hydraulic pressure source and also has activatable hydraulic functional elements in order to hydraulically actuate the disc brake device in accordance with a service braking action by a driver or an automatic activation, wherein the vehicle brake system also has a control device in order to actuate the electromechanical operating device in accordance with a parking braking action by the driver or an automatic activation of the parking brake function. Here, to avoid residual slippage torques, it is provided that the hydraulic circuit can be actuated by the control device such that, upon the triggering of the parking brake function through actuation of the electromechanical operating device, a hydraulic pressure is built up in the disc brake device, which hydraulic pressure is large enough to elastically deform hydraulic seal elements in the disc brake device corresponding to an elastic deformation during a service braking operation.
US09156447B2 Methods and apparatus for a vehicle emergency control system
A vehicle control system defines a set of predetermined criteria relating to the motion of the vehicle and a set of vehicle actions associated with the set of predetermined criteria. The vehicle actions each specify a steering action and/or a braking action. Friction data indicative of a frictional attribute (for example, coefficient of friction) of the contact region between the vehicle and the surface is received. The predetermined criteria are modified based on the friction data. When one or more of the predetermined criteria are met, the system applies the corresponding steering and/or braking actions.
US09156440B2 Powered landing gear with cross-port disable valve travel limiter
A travel limiter for landing gear extension legs which employs a pair of mechanically-operable cross-port valves fluidly coupled to the hydraulic circuit and connected between the telescoping upper and lower leg assemblies to mechanically sense when each travel stop limit is reached. The valves are mounted in the upper leg assembly and are operated by mechanical connection to the movable lower leg assembly. When actuated, each valve cross-ports the system's fluid flow from the valve's inlet port to the system's return line, thereby permitting all fluid flow and power to bypass the power drive motor.
US09156435B2 Webbing adjuster for a seat belt assembly
A webbing adjuster for a seat belt system having a webbing, the webbing adjuster including a main body having a base and a guide portion configured to limit a forward movement of the webbing relative to the base, the base having a friction element and a passage configured to route the webbing from a front side to a rear side of the base, and a lower guide member connected to the main body and configured to limit the forward movement of the webbing. When the webbing is not under load, the webbing adjuster is configured to be moveable relative to the webbing. When the webbing is under load, the friction element is configured to secure the webbing to maintain a relative position between the webbing adjuster and the webbing.
US09156434B2 Webbing exit protection boot for a webbing of a seat belt and seat belt system
A webbing exit protection boot for a webbing of a vehicle seat belt has an aperture for the webbing, a stiff lower part confining a lower section of the aperture at least in part and a flexible upper part confining an upper section of the aperture.
US09156431B2 Structural body pillar for a motor vehicle and motor vehicle having a structural body pillar
A structural body pillar is provided for a motor vehicle having a structural component. The structural component is designed as closed hollow profile and extends in a longitudinal direction of the structural body pillar. Furthermore, the structural body pillar comprises a facing. The facing comprises an elastic material and is arranged in the direction of an outer side of the motor vehicle above the structural component. The structural component is designed unitarily and on a first side provides a support surface for a window of the motor vehicle.
US09156421B2 Method and control unit for controlling an occupant protection means of a vehicle
A method is described for controlling an occupant protection arrangement which has at least two levels of protection for an occupant of a vehicle. The method has a step of selecting one of the at least two levels of protection of the occupant protection means as the level of protection to be used in the event of an impact of the vehicle using a yaw direction of the vehicle.
US09156413B2 Fixing mount of bicycle carrier
A fixing mount of a bicycle carrier contains a support rod of a bicycle carrier, a body, at least one cable tie, a connector, and a retainer. The body includes a large-diameter end, a through hole, and a small-diameter end. The large-diameter end has a first arcuate supporting face, a second arcuate supporting face and a third arcuate supporting face. The small-diameter end has a locking groove, and the body also includes plural locking elements. The connector includes a recess, a convex bottom surface, two coupling tabs, and each coupling tab has a concaved top surface and an aperture. The connector further includes plural first extending pieces, and each first extending piece has a first pore. Between any two adjacent extending blocks is defined a notch. The retainer includes at least one second extending piece and a plurality of pegs, and each extending piece has a second pore.
US09156408B1 Active glove box door with reaction surface catcher
An active glove box system comprises an instrument panel and a glove box door. The instrument panel housing defines a door space bordered by a curb flange along top and lateral sides of the door space. The glove box door comprises a trim wall providing an outside trim surface of the door, a bladder wall sealed along an outer edge to the trim wall defining an inflatable cavity, and a reaction wall. The reaction wall defines a back surface of the door, is attached to the bladder wall, and has an outer fringe surface abutting the curb flange when the door is closed. The fringe surface and the curb flange comprise interlocking features configured to engage and disengage in a door opening direction and to provide interference against movement of the reaction wall along an inward perpendicular direction when engaged.
US09156403B2 Mirror mounting assembly with adapter
An interior mounting system for a vehicle includes an interior assembly, a mounting assembly for mounting the interior assembly at a vehicle windshield, a first windshield mounting element adhered to an in-cabin surface of the vehicle windshield, and a second windshield mounting element attached at the in-cabin surface of the vehicle windshield and at or at least partially around the first mounting element. A mounting base of the mounting assembly is configured to engage at least the second mounting element when the mounting base is mounted at the first and second mounting elements at the in-cabin surface of the vehicle windshield. The first and second mounting elements cooperate to support the mounting base and the interior assembly when the first and second mounting elements are adhered to the in-cabin surface of the vehicle windshield and when the mounting base is mounted at the first and second mounting elements.
US09156397B2 Lighting apparatus for vehicle and method of controlling a headlamp
A lighting apparatus for a vehicle includes headlamps configured to be switchable between high beam and low beam, wherein a direction of an optical axis of each of the headlamps is variable in a substantially horizontal plane by use of a swivel actuator and a controller configured to control the headlamps, wherein if the controller detects a forward vehicle in projection areas of the headlamps, the controller temporarily switches from the high beam to the low beam, then drives the swivel actuator toward a target swivel angle according to a position of the detected forward vehicle and, after finishing driving toward the target swivel angle or during driving toward the target swivel angle, starts projection by the high beam.
US09156389B2 Vacuum tank trailer discharge port
Disclosed is a port system for facilitating mixed solid/liquid content discharge from a portable tank especially vacuum tank trailer, discharge system. The system provides an enlarged sloped tank outlet system that overcomes the deficiencies of convention systems.
US09156388B2 Vehicle seat
A vehicle seat includes a cushion member forming an outside shape of the seat and configured to elastically support an occupant, a frame member configuring a skeleton of the seat, a belt member configured to restrain an occupant, a buckle member configured to lock the belt member, and a storage portion configured to store the buckle member. The storage portion is provided to a cutout portion or a hole portion that is formed on a lateral end portion of the cushion member. A reinforcing member that has a flat plate shape and has strength higher than the cushion member is directly or indirectly fixed to the frame member while covering the storage portion from a lateral side of the seat.
US09156379B2 Child safety seat assembly
A child safety seat assembly comprises a child seat, a base adapted to assemble with the child seat, wherein the base includes a first portion having an enlarged bottom, and an inclined second portion joined with an upper side of the first portion and provided with a storage pocket, and an abuttal support operable to slide relative to the base between a first position stowed in the storage pocket and a second position deployed outward.
US09156374B2 Vehicle seat
In a vehicle seat, left and right first frames extending in a front-rear direction are disposed apart from each other in a lateral direction. Each first frame includes a bottom wall to which a load sensor for measuring a weight of an occupant is attached, and sidewalls extending upward from left and right sides of the bottom wall. One or each of front and rear end portions of the left first frame is connected to a corresponding end portion of the right first frame by a connecting member. The bottom wall of at least one of the left and right first frames includes a connecting portion that is an end portion of the bottom wall to which the connecting member is connected and which extends outward in the front-rear direction farther beyond outer edges of the sidewalls, bending around the connecting member to its outer side in the front-rear direction.
US09156369B2 BEV life support system and method
A battery electric vehicle life support system for a battery electric vehicle. The system may include at least one controller adapted to receive charging station location data; a vehicle battery interfacing with the at least one controller, the at least one controller adapted to receive state of charge data from the vehicle battery; and the at least one controller adapted to determine a probability that the vehicle will reach at least one battery charging station based on the state of charge data and the charging station location data. A battery electric vehicle life support method is also disclosed.
US09156364B2 Wireless power charging using point of load controlled high frequency power converters
An apparatus for wirelessly charging a battery of an electric vehicle is provided with a point of load control. The apparatus includes a base unit for generating a direct current (DC) voltage. The base unit is regulated by a power level controller. One or more point of load converters can be connected to the base unit by a conductor, with each point of load converter comprising a control signal generator that transmits a signal to the power level controller. The output power level of the DC voltage provided by the base unit is controlled by power level controller such that the power level is sufficient to power all active load converters when commanded to do so by any of the active controllers, without generating excessive power that may be otherwise wasted.
US09156361B2 Power conversion apparatus and power control method
Charge efficiency of normal charge is improved without restricting an operation of a low-voltage load of an electric vehicle during the normal charge. During a charge of a high-voltage battery of a vehicle, when a determination of the normal charge is made, and when a determination that a mode switching target load is not operated is made, power saving mode transition processing is performed. Therefore, an operating mode of a DC-DC converter, which steps down a voltage at the high-voltage battery and supplies the stepped-down voltage to a low-voltage battery and a low-voltage load, is set to a power saving mode in which consumption power is reduced compared with a normal mode. When a determination that a start-up manipulation of the mode switching target load is performed is made, the operating mode of the DC-DC converter is changed to the normal mode.
US09156355B2 Method and apparatus for displaying energy flow in hybrid vehicle
Provided are a method and apparatus for displaying energy flow in a hybrid vehicle. The present invention adds a function, which displays breakdown and abnormal state information on modules and is not provided by an energy flow displaying function of the existing hybrid vehicle, to the energy flow displaying function, thus removing inconvenience of the existing energy flow displaying function that cannot check information on breakdown and abnormal states of a vehicle.
US09156353B2 Active wheel hub transmission
A wheel hub transmission for a vehicle driveline is provided. The wheel hub transmission includes an input shaft, a planetary gear arrangement, a casing member, and a clutching device. The input shaft is drivingly engaged with a power source and the planetary gear arrangement. The planetary gear arrangement is drivingly engaged with the input shaft and is in one of driving engagement and selective driving engagement with the casing member. The clutching device may be selectively drivingly engaged with a portion of the planetary gear arrangement, wherein upon engagement of the clutching device the planetary gear arrangement is fixed. The wheel hub transmission facilitates a torque multiplication at the wheel hub transmission, which reduces an amount of torque applied to a portion of the vehicle driveline.
US09156350B2 Hydraulic motor unit and hydraulic four-wheel-drive working vehicle
A hydraulic motor unit according to the present invention includes an electric motor having an electric motor main body that is electrically controlled, an electric motor case that accommodates the electric motor main body and an electric motor main body output shaft that is rotated around an axis line thereof by the electric motor main body, the electric motor case being detachably mounted to the motor housing, wherein mounting of the electric motor to the motor housing causes the electric motor main body output shaft to be operatively connected to the first end of the control shaft so that the control shaft is rotated around the axis line in accordance with rotation of the electric motor main body output shaft.
US09156349B2 Torque distribution control method for a four-wheel drive motor vehicle and corresponding vehicle
A motor vehicle with four drive wheels mounted on first and second axles, including: a transfer shaft connected to the first axle and a controlled coupling that can transfer part of the torque from the transfer shaft to the second axle; a mechanism determining respective speeds of the first and second axles, and a torque distribution control system configured to determine a slip value representative of the speed difference between the first and second axles and to control the coupling. The torque distribution control system is further configured to control the coupling such as to suppress any torque transfer via the coupling when the average slip value over a pre-determined period exceeds a threshold.
US09156342B2 Vehicle comprising a housing of an electric energy store, said housing being designed as a supporting structural component
A vehicle is provided having at least a front wheel, a rear wheel, an electrical machine which is configured for driving the rear and/or the front wheel, and multiple electrical storage devices which are accommodated in a storage housing. The storage housing forms a load-bearing component of a frame and/or a body of the vehicle.
US09156335B1 Structural door handle attached to door structure at the door window belt
A vehicle door and handle assembly includes inner and outer panels defining an inner door cavity therebetween. A belt reinforcement is disposed within the inner door cavity and includes a generally upright body portion having an upper edge. A belt molding is partially disposed on the upper edge of the belt reinforcement. A casting bracket includes downwardly extending reinforcement members and a handle portion interconnecting opposite ends. Each reinforcement member includes upper and lower mounting features, wherein the upper mounting features are supported on the upper edge of the belt reinforcement and the lower mounting features are mounted on the body portion of the belt reinforcement. A cover substantially covers the casting bracket and is configured to align with the belt molding on the upper edge of the belt reinforcement to define an integrated belt molding at the door window belt.
US09156330B2 Vehicle cabin heating system
A method for controlling a vehicle cabin heating system includes setting a target temperature for a vehicle cabin interior space. The method also includes measuring current temperature within the vehicle cabin interior space at a location spaced apart from a first infrared heater and spaced apart from a target surface within the vehicle cabin interior space, the first infrared heater being aimed to heat the target surface. A surface temperature of the target surface is estimated based the current temperature. The first infrared heater is controlled such that the heater is turned on in response to the estimated surface temperature of the target surface falling below the target temperature by a predetermined amount, and the heater is turned off in response to the estimated surface temperature rising above the target temperature by the predetermined amount.
US09156325B2 Methods and apparatus for vehicle suspension having multiple gas volumes
A method and apparatus for a vehicle suspension system gas spring. In one embodiment, a vehicle suspension system gas spring includes a compressible main gas chamber and an additional volume combinable with the main chamber to change a gas spring rate of the system. In one embodiment, a low friction piston seal is created by a flexible seal member.
US09156323B2 Suspension device for a vehicle
This invention relates to a suspension particularly for every type of land vehicles and additionally for robotic applications, which can be used in bilateral operations, such as fully automated unmanned vehicles that can be driven on both sides (up and down) or in robots which can be capable of executing multi functional movements.
US09156317B2 Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire wherein a sipe includes protrusions on a first sipe wall face of mutually opposing sipe wall faces and recesses that mate with the protrusions in a second sipe wall face. Additionally, in a projection figure of the protrusions with the sipe wall faces in an expanded state, a relationship between a placement density X of the protrusions in a region that extends up to half of a sipe depth H from an opening of the sipe and a placement density Y of the protrusions in a region that extends up to half of the sipe depth H from a bottom of the sipe is X>Y.
US09156312B1 Drive axle for an agricultural or industrial vehicle
A drive axle for an agricultural or industrial vehicle includes a central box-shaped body for containing a differential; two fixed tubular arms fixed by opposite parts to the box-shaped body; two tubular movable arms, each slidingly inserted in a respective fixed arm; two hubs, each connected to a respective movable arm to support respective wheels; two adjustment actuators, each active between a respective fixed arm and the corresponding movable arm to change the distance between hubs between a minimum distance configuration and a maximum distance configuration; an antirotation device active between each fixed arm and each movable arm; the antirotation device being active on opposite sides of fixed arms and movable arms.
US09156304B2 Ink-delivery systems
Ink delivery systems to provide ink from a reservoir to an applicator pad for marking a surface. Ink is stored in a reservoir within a marker body. A valve system controls the flow of ink to the applicator pad to prevent puddling of ink on the marking surface. The reservoir is a hollow body with free flowing ink or may contain a fiber reservoir at least partially saturated with ink. The reservoir may also contain capillary channels and ribs to aid in transporting ink to the valve system. The valve system includes a plug and a spring to bias the plug in a closed position. The plug includes at least one contact surface to contact a housing, and thereby control the flow of ink from the reservoir to the applicator pad. The spring may be a coil spring or a compressible foam-like spring.
US09156296B2 Image processing device and cover attachment structure
An image processing device allows for easy removal of a process medium stuck in the conveyance path while protecting the image processing unit from the outside. In many embodiments, the device includes a conveyance path for conveying process media in a specific conveyance direction, an image processing unit having an ejection surface (process surface) disposed facing the conveyance path, and a first cover and a second cover disposed along the conveyance path and covering the conveyance path. Typically, the first and second covers open and close by pivoting on first and second pivot pins disposed in a direction intersecting the conveyance direction, and the first and second pivot pins are disposed adjacent the conveyance path upstream and downstream of the portion of the conveyance path facing the ejection surface.
US09156293B2 Manufacturing tray with customized inlays for processing different types of articles of manufacture
A manufacturing tray for imprinting custom content onto different articles of manufacture includes a tray base and frame, and a plurality of interchangeable different customized inlays for holding different types of articles of manufacture. Each tray includes an identifier which may be associated with a custom processing job for instructing the imprinting system which of a plurality of available pre-treatment, post-treatment, and imprinting processes to perform.
US09156292B2 Recording apparatus
There is provided a recording apparatus including a first accommodating section, a transporting mechanism, a first path which includes a curved path portion, a second path which is extended linearly, a third path which includes a curved path portion, and a fourth path which is extended linearly, and a recording section. The transporting mechanism includes a guide surface extended linearly, which is configured to define the second path, and to guide one side end of the recording medium, and a pair of inclined feeding rollers which is configured to transport the recording medium with respect to the guide surface to bring the one side end of the recording medium to the guide surface. The recording section is arranged along the fourth path. The first accommodating section, the second path, and the fourth path are overlapped in a vertical direction.
US09156289B2 Recording device
The recording device includes an adhesive belt extending across a plurality of rotating bodies configured to support and convey a recording medium, a first sensor configured to detect that the recording medium is separated relative to the adhesive belt in a first range, a second sensor configured to detect that the recording medium P is separated relative to the adhesive belt in a second range within the first range, a take-up unit configured to take up the recording medium, and a control unit configured to control the take-up unit so as to take up the recording medium when the first sensor detects that a separation position of the recording medium is within the first range, and control the rotating body to stop movement of the adhesive belt when the second sensor detects that the separation position of the recording medium is within the second range.
US09156286B2 Image recording device
An image recording device includes: a rotating drum configured to rotate and including a cylindrical hollow outer member having an outer peripheral surface around which a recording medium is wrapped during rotation of the rotating drum; an ejecting head facing the outer peripheral surface of the rotating drum and configured to eject liquid onto the recording medium wrapped around the outer peripheral surface of the rotating drum; an air supply unit configured to supply gas from one side of the rotating drum to a hollow portion surrounded by the outer member of the rotating drum in an axial direction along which a rotating shaft of the rotating drum extends; and an exhaust unit configured to exhaust gas from the hollow portion to the other side of the rotating drum in the axial direction.
US09156282B2 Nail print apparatus and printing method thereof
A nail print apparatus, including: a nail placement unit on which a central area in a protruding portion of a nail of a finger or a nail of a toe is placed, the protruding portion of the nail is an area that protrudes from a distal portion of the finger or the toe and the central area includes a center of the protruding portion in a width direction of the nail; and a print head which performs printing on the nail that the central area is placed on the nail placement unit.
US09156279B2 Printing system, printing device, and printing method
A first printer 60 has a connection unit that receives print data input from a POS terminal 10, and outputs the print data to and receives the result of printing the output print data from a second printer 20, and a first printer print unit 71 that prints the received print data or data based on the received print data. When the result of printing the print data input to the connection unit is an error, the first printer 60 uses the first printer print unit 71 to print the print data, and outputs the result of printing by the first printer print unit 71 from the connection unit.
US09156277B2 Fluid ejection system and method of controlling ejection of fluid from a fluid ejection nozzle array
The invention relates to a fluid ejection system comprising a print head unit including a fluid ejection nozzle array, wherein the fluid ejection nozzle array comprises at least a first set of nozzles having nozzles of a first fluid ejection capacity and a second set of nozzles having nozzles of a second fluid ejection capacity and nozzles of a third fluid ejection capacity, wherein the first fluid ejection capacity, the second fluid ejection capacity and the third fluid ejection capacity are different from one another, and further including a printer controller which, in a first printing mode, selects nozzles of the first and second sets for firing in proportions so that the overall color densities generated by the nozzles of second set when compared to nozzles of the first set are the same in a defined print area.
US09156274B2 Ink supply control method for an inkjet printer, and an inkjet printer
An inkjet printer 1 has an elastic ink pack 10 that holds ink, and an ink supply mechanism 5 that pressurizes the ink pack 10 and supplies ink to the ink path 4 side. The ink supply mechanism 5 has a pressure pump 15; a remaining ink monitor 52 that watches if the ink in the ink pack 10 has dropped to a specific remaining ink level; a first pressure control unit 56 that drives the pressure pump 15 until the pump pressure reaches a preset first set pressure P1 when the remaining ink has not reached the specific remaining ink level; and a second pressure control unit 57 that drives the pressure pump 15 until the pump pressure reaches a second set pressure P2 that is higher than the first set pressure P1 when the remaining ink has reached the specific remaining ink level.
US09156266B2 Ink jet recorder
An ink jet recorder includes a support unit configured to support a recording medium, and a mobile unit including a plurality of containers containing inks of identical composition and a head configured to eject the ink supplied from any one of the plurality of containers. The ink jet recorder is configured to record an image on the recording medium in such a manner that the head performs main scanning by ejecting the ink while changing positions in a first direction, and the mobile unit performs sub-scanning by moving in a second direction intersecting with the first direction.
US09156259B2 Liquid ejecting head and liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting head includes: a pressure generation chamber that communicates with a nozzle opening which ejects liquid; a pressure generation unit that causes a change in pressure in the pressure generation chamber; and a flexible wiring substrate that transmits a control signal from outside and includes a wiring layer which is connected to each individual electrode of a plurality of pressure generation units and also connected to a terminal portion of a common electrode common to the plurality of pressure generation units. In the liquid ejecting head, the wiring layer of the wiring substrate includes slits in an area connected to the terminal portion of the common electrode of the pressure generation unit, while the wiring layer of the wiring substrate and the terminal portion of the pressure generation unit are connected via an anisotropic conductive material.
US09156256B2 Printing process and liquid ink jet ink
A process for forming an image on a substrate, comprises depositing ink compositions of at least two colors onto the substrate to form the image, and fixing the image to the substrate, wherein the ink is deposited using an electrostatic printhead, which ejects chargeable marking particles dispersed in a carrier fluid by using an applied electric field to first concentrate and then eject the marking particles, and wherein all of the ink compositions are deposited onto the substrate before the image is fixed. An ink composition suitable for use in the invention comprises: 45-95% by weight of a carrier liquid; 6-40% by weight of insoluble chargeable marking particles; and 0.4-10% by weight of a soluble dispersant, characterized in that the ink does not contain an agent that can fix the marking particles to a substrate.
US09156252B2 Liquid ejection apparatus and sensor unit
A liquid ejection apparatus and a sensor unit are capable of reducing the amount of mist adhering to an optical element. The liquid ejection apparatus includes a carriage including an ejection head mounted thereon for ejecting a liquid, and a sensor unit accommodating an optical element attached to the carriage, wherein the sensor unit has a first opening and a second opening which is communicated with the first opening and forms a light path between the optical element and the medium.
US09156245B2 Inspection system for inspecting the quality of printed sheets
There is described an inspection system (10) for inspecting the quality of printed sheets which are transported by a sheet conveyor system comprising at least one sheet gripper system (3a, 3b) including a plurality of spaced-apart gripper bars (32) for holding the printed sheets by a leading edge thereof. The inspection system (10) comprises an optical quality control apparatus for carrying out inspection of a first side of the printed sheets while the printed sheets are being transported by the sheet gripper system (3b). The optical quality control apparatus includes a line camera (11) for scanning the first side of the printed sheets at an inspection location which is situated at a location proximate to a portion of the sheet gripper system (3b) where the gripper bars (32) transporting the printed sheets undergo a change of direction of displacement while the printed sheets are still being scanned by the line camera (11). The inspection system (10) further comprises a suction roller (50) that is placed in front of the optical path (B) of the line camera (11) along the path (A) of the printed sheets being transported by the sheet gripper system (3b), which suction roller (50) contacts a second side of the printed sheets opposite to the first side which is being scanned by the line camera (11), the suction roller (50) being driven at a selected circumferential speed to drive successive portions of the printed sheets being inspected by the quality control apparatus at a determined and controlled speed past the line camera (11).
US09156226B2 Production apparatus of skin-fitted foam molding member, production method of skin-fitted foam molding member, and skin-fitted foam molding member
A production apparatus of a skin-fitted foam molding member includes a first mold where an internal surface of a core material is disposed to face a mold face of the first mold; a second mold disposed to open and close relative to the first mold where an external surface of a skin having a roll portion is disposed to face a mold face of the second mold; a bender for bending the roll portion to allow the roll portion to face an external surface of an end portion of the core material; a welder for forming a seal portion which prevents a leak of a foam body where the preventing operation of the leak of the foam body is implemented by welding the end portion of the core material with the roll portion; and a filler for filling the foam body.
US09156223B2 Container with sidewall and closure
A container is provided. The container includes a sidewall, a bottom closure, and a chime. The chime is coupled to a first end of the sidewall by adhesive. The bottom closure is coupled to a second end of the sidewall by adhesive.
US09156214B2 Polar thermoplastic ophthalmic lens molds, ophthalmic lenses molded therein, and related methods
Ophthalmic lens molds made from one or more thermoplastic polymers with average polarities from about 1% to about 7%, ophthalmic lenses including silicone hydrogel contact lenses molded using these less polar thermoplastic polymers, and related methods are described. When the molds are used to cast mold silicone hydrogel contact lenses, the resulting polymerized lens bodies have ophthalmically acceptably wettable surfaces.
US09156212B2 Tire puncture repair kit
The invention allows the relaxation of the precision of fitting the inner lid to the cap body while making removal of the inner lid more reliable. In the bottle unit of the tire puncture repair kit that has an extraction cap attached to the mouth portion of the bottle container, the extraction cap is provided with: a first flow channel for taking in compressed air from a compressor into the bottle container; a second flow channel for successively taking out the puncture repair liquid and compressed air from the bottle container; and first and second closing means for closing the first and second flow channels in the pre-coupling state. The extraction cap is provided with a release means for releasing the second closing means and opening the second flow channel when connection occurs.
US09156207B2 Reinforced sandwich structure
A process for forming a reinforced sandwich structure which includes, stacked in height direction thereof, at least one top layer and at least one bottom layer including a fibrous reinforcing material, which top and bottom layer sandwich between them at least one core of a foamed material, the sandwich structure being impregnated with a resin material.The top and bottom layers of fibrous reinforcing material are forwarded along opposite top and bottom faces of the core material to form a multi-layer laminate. A plurality of inserts are inserted in longitudinal and/or transversal direction of the core material interconnecting the top and bottom layer and the core by applying reinforcing fibers at least part of which extend in height direction of the laminate, and the structure is impregnated with a plastic material.
US09156204B2 Hybrid scanner fabricator
A system and method to fabricate three dimensional objects. A set of fabrication tools include at least a coarse deposition head and a fine additive head, a fine subtractive head or both employed concurrently within a single housing. A scanner may also be used within the housing to perform interleaved scanning of the partial fabrication during the fabrication. The process may be adjusted based on the scan results.
US09156201B2 Single screw extruder
The invention relates to a single-screw extruder comprising a cylinder (1), which comprises a transition zone (14), and a homogenizing zone (12) that is connected to the transition zone (14), and a screw (2) which is rotatably supported in the cylinder (1) and which has at least two consecutive displacement parts (6, 8) in the homogenizing zone (12), the second displacement part of which in the conveying direction is designed as a shearing part. The aim of the invention is to provide a single-screw extruder which enables an improved melting effect along with an increased throughput, a lowered melt temperature, and an improved pressurization capability. According to the invention, it was recognized that this aim can be achieved in that at least one groove (4) running in the longitudinal direction in the inner cylinder wall is provided in the homogenization zone (12) of the single-screw extruder, and said groove ends in the area between a first displacement part and the subsequent shearing part (8) as viewed in the conveying direction.
US09156200B2 Facility for extruding plastic sheath
An extrusion facility (10) includes an extrusion screw (12), capable of providing a heat-softened viscous plastic material, and an extrusion (14). The extrusion head includes an annular chamber (24) that is capable of receiving viscous plastic material. The viscous plastic material, provided by the extrusion screw, has, at a constant temperature, a viscosity variable from a value μi at a constant value μcst during a given period so that μcst>μi. A buffer chamber (16) between the extrusion screw (12) and the extrusion head (14) to store the viscous plastic material during the given period in order to enable the plastic material to reach the viscosity value μcst before being injected into the extrusion head (14).
US09156195B2 Clear graphic cling films
The instant invention provides a polymer composition suitable for clear graphic cling film applications, method of producing the same, articles made therefrom, and methods for making such articles. The polymer composition suitable for clear graphic cling film applications, according to the present invention, comprises: (a) a polyolefin composition selected from the group consisting of a propylene-based composition as described herein, and an ethylene-based composition as described herein, and (b) one or more alkyl phosphate-based release agent; wherein when said polyolefin composition is formed into a clear graphic cling film having a 7 (±2) mils, said clear graphic cling film has a haze of less than 4 percent, for example from 0.3 to 4 percent, measured according to ASTM-D 1003.
US09156194B2 Digital 3D fabrication using multi-layered mold
A replica 3D structure is fabricated inside a multi-layered mold by patterning each mold layer to define a void/opening that matches a corresponding cross section of the structure's peripheral surface, and filling the patterned opening of each layer with a structural material (i.e., before depositing a subsequent layer of mold material). The mold material (e.g., photoresist or another dissolvable sacrificial material) is blanket deposited (e.g., by slot-die, spray coating) and then patterned using a laser or a printed mask. Each layer of modeling material (e.g., polymer, ceramic or metal, or a combination thereof) is electro-plated or otherwise deposited on the previously formed modeling material layer. High vertical resolution is achieved by utilizing relatively thin mold layers. The mold layer deposition, patterning and modeling material deposition is repeated until the replica 3D structure is entirely formed inside the multi-layered mold, and then the mold is dissolved or otherwise removed.
US09156193B2 Transfer device
A transfer device 5 transfers a fine transfer pattern M1 formed on a mold M to a molding target W. The transfer device includes: a base member 47 including a press body 31; a moving member 49 including a molding target placing body 33 that sandwiches and presses the mold M and the molding target W in cooperation with the press body 31, and is provided on the base member 47 so that the molding target placing body 33 can move; and a moving body supporting body 51 that includes a guide portion 71, and is engaged with and provided integrally on the base member 47 only in a region of the base member 47 elastically deformed very slightly by reaction force when the press is performed, the region being a region where a flexure angle becomes substantially “0”.
US09156192B2 Micro-erosion process for controlling variable crumb rubber mesh size
The present invention is Micro-erosion Recovery System for separating recyclable tire materials (rubber, steel and fiber) and complying with quality standards governing the use of recovered tire materials. It is also a highly efficient apparatus and system for producing large amounts of high quality crumb rubber and steel. The system is controlled by selecting a micro erosion water jet nozzle with a specific cross-sectional area of the inlet and continually taking measurements of the inlet pressure until ideal mesh size of crumb rubber is met. Using the inlet pressure and cross-sectional area of the inlet, the remaining variables are able to be calculated by using an equation known in the art.
US09156191B2 Method for processing a textile fraction, which was produced in the processing of discarded tires, and installation for implementing the method
A method for processing a textile fraction, which was produced in the processing of discarded tires, includes: loosening the textile fraction, density separation of the loosened textile fraction by the force of gravity and air flow into a heavy material fraction and a light material fraction, separation of metallic components from the light material fraction contained in the air flow, and separation of the metal-reduced light material fraction from the air flow. The foregoing combination allows for such an effective separation of a major part of the non-textile components (rubber and in particular steel wires) from the textile fraction, and thus allows for the production of a “refined” textile fraction, that it is not possible to dispose of the latter or that the latter can only be recycled as energy, but rather that it may be fed into a material recycling process.
US09156175B2 Fluid applicator for a personal-care appliance
A fluid dispensing cartridge for a personal care appliance with a fluid applicator having a baffle with a rear wall and an opposing resilient front flap. The baffle defines at least one outlet port. The resilient front flap contacts a portion of the rear wall in a first position and is spaced apart from the portion in a second position.
US09156167B2 Determining an autonomous position of a point of interest on a lifting device
A system and method for monitoring a lifting device is disclosed. The method receives location information from a position determiner module coupled with a point of interest associated with the lifting device and determines an autonomous position of the point of interest based on the location information. The method further includes monitoring the lifting device based on the autonomous position of the point of interest.
US09156164B2 Method for adjusting parameters of impedance control
In a method for adjusting parameters of impedance control, an overshoot amount allowable value is set as an allowable maximum value of an overshoot amount of a time response of a force feedback from a force sensor provided for an end effector of a robot manipulator, and a setting time allowable value is set as an allowable maximum value of a setting time of the time response of the force feedback. A viscosity parameter with which the setting time is shortest is calculated while fixing the inertia parameter. An overshoot amount adjustment value and a setting time adjustment value which are obtained from a result of the calculating of the viscosity parameter are compared with the overshoot amount allowable value and the setting time allowable value, respectively, to determine whether a repeating process is finished or continued.
US09156156B2 Tool box with storage members
A tool box includes two pivoted halves, at least one of which has a chamber with a bottom and two opposite walls. Plural positioning units are disposed on the walls and each include a straight guide groove, a guide gap and a positioning cavity at two ends of the straight guide groove, a first pivot cavity located closer to the bottom than the positioning cavity, a second pivot cavity between the positioning cavity and a positioning cavity of a neighboring positioning unit, and an arc-shaped guide groove covering the first and second pivot cavities. The arc-shaped guide groove has two arc-shaped ends to connect the first pivot cavity and a straight guide groove of the neighboring positioning unit. The storage member has pivots pivotally disposed in the first pivot cavity and the positioning cavity, or in the first or second pivot cavity of the neighboring positioning unit.
US09156142B2 Open-end wrench
An open-end wrench includes a handle and a driver. The driver is connected with an end of the handle for providing a torque for a work piece. The driver includes two jaw portions and at least one inclined plane. The two jaw portions are formed on two sides of a front side of the driver, and are spaced for forming an opening. The inclined plane is formed on the driver and inclines from a center of the driver to an edge of the driver, and inclines across one of the jaw portions, and inclines from a connecting portion between the handle and the driver to the front end of the driver.
US09156141B2 Adaptor for wrench device
A driving wrench device includes an adaptor for engaging with a non-circular compartment of a wrench member, the adaptor includes a non-circular outer peripheral portion for engaging with the non-circular compartment of the wrench member, and the adaptor includes an upper portion having an upper engaging hole, and a bottom portion having a bottom engaging hole communicating with the upper engaging hole of the adaptor, the engaging holes of the adaptor include an inner diameter different from each other for engaging with the fasteners or tool members of different outer diameters. The adaptor includes an outer notch for engaging with a retaining ring of the wrench member.
US09156139B1 Disc spindle with flexible cap clamping
A hub for holding media during manufacturing processes, such as inspection, includes a flexible cap at an end that has a cylindrical profile for engaging with the central void in the media. The cap is expanded to retain the media, avoiding contact of the clamping mechanism with the face of the media, so that particulation is reduced and contact confined to the edges of the media's central void. An actuator draws end of the cap toward the clamp body to place the cap in a clamping state and moves the end of the cap away from the clamp body to unclamp a disc. Vacuum or pressure may be used to move the actuator to the clamping or released state by providing a piston within the hub and applying vacuum to one side of a diaphragm coupled to the piston or pressure to the other.
US09156133B2 Waterjet assembly comprising a structural waterjet nozzle
A waterjet assembly for an entrainment waterjet cutting head device comprises a passaged component adapted to be connected to a source of pressurised water and a waterjet nozzle for converting water pressure energy to kinetic energy to form a high velocity waterjet. The waterjet nozzle comprises superhard material and has a contracting bore. The passaged component and the waterjet nozzle are arranged such that pressurised water from the source flows through the passaged component to and through the contracting bore in the waterjet nozzle to generate the high speed waterjet. In use of the waterjet assembly, the outlet face of the passaged component is sealingly forced against the upstream face of the waterjet nozzle.
US09156115B2 Workpiece retention and handling systems
In some aspects of the disclosure, a workpiece retention device for securing plate-like workpieces to a workpiece movement unit of a machine tool includes first and second workpiece clamping elements and a clamping drive by which the workpiece clamping elements can be moved towards one another starting from an initial relative position in order to clamp a workpiece that is arranged between the workpiece clamping elements. The workpiece retention device also includes an adjustment device that can adjust the initial relative position of the workpiece clamping elements.
US09156111B2 Lead free solder bumps
Provided are a lead-free solder, a solder paste, and a semiconductor device, and more particularly, a lead-free solder that includes Cu in a range from about 0.1 wt % to about 0.8 wt %, Pd in a range from about 0.001 wt % to about 0.1 wt %, Al in a range from about 0.001 wt % to about 0.1 wt %, Si in a range from about 0.001 wt % to about 0.1 wt %, and Sn and inevitable impurities as remainder, a solder paste and a semiconductor device including the lead-free solder. The lead-free solder and the solder paste are environment-friendly and have a high high-temperature stability and high reliability.
US09156110B2 Weldment with isolation pocket for reduction of weld-induced distortion
A weldment in which a first component defines a bore, a second component is received in the bore and a weld is employed to couple the second component to the first component. The first component has an isolation pocket formed about the bore such that an annular projection having an annular collar portion is formed. The isolation pocket is sized and positioned relative to the weld such that the annular collar portion is deflected about the base into a position that is radially inwardly from a position of the annular collar portion prior to the formation of the weld such that the isolation pocket controls axial shrinkage associated with the formation and cooling of the weld.
US09156109B2 Laser processing apparatus
A laser processing apparatus including a workpiece holding unit for holding a workpiece and a laser beam applying unit for applying a laser beam to the workpiece held by the workpiece holding unit. The laser beam applying unit includes a laser oscillator for oscillating a laser beam, a focusing unit for focusing the laser beam oscillated by the laser oscillator onto the workpiece held by the workpiece holding unit, and an optical system provided between the laser oscillator and the focusing unit for transmitting the laser beam oscillated by the laser oscillator. The laser beam applying unit further includes a wavelength converting mechanism provided between the optical system and the focusing unit for converting the wavelength of the laser beam oscillated by the laser oscillator into a short wavelength.
US09156105B1 Managing infrastructure data
One aspect provides a method of generating an infrastructure project summary, including: accessing fluid conveyance infrastructure summary data describing a condition of a fluid conveyance infrastructure segment; generating least one parameter of the infrastructure project summary based on the condition of the fluid conveyance infrastructure segment; and including the at least one generated parameter of the infrastructure project summary in a project summary report. Other aspects are described and claimed.
US09156096B2 Tool cutting apparatus and tool cutting method for workpiece
A tool cutting apparatus includes a chuck table for holding a workpiece, and rotatable cutting means having a cutting tip for cutting the front side of the workpiece. Pure water and an additive are mixed to prepare a cutting fluid, and a cutting fluid nozzle supplies the cutting fluid to the cutting tip and the workpiece held on the chuck table.
US09156093B2 Collet positioning mechanism for a rotary tool
An accessory tool retention assembly for a rotary tool includes a collet having a body defining a collet axis and having a plurality of flexible segments that extend longitudinal along the body generally parallel to the collet axis, each flexible segment including a curved end portion that curves radially outwardly from the collet body. A collet chuck is configured to be coupled to an output shaft of a motor of a rotary tool. The collet chuck defines a collet receiving passage configured to slidably receive the collet. A front wall portion on the collet chuck defines an insertion opening aligned with the passage of the collet chuck. The front wall portion defines a plurality of recesses sized and shaped complementary to the curved end portions of the collet. The plurality of recesses is positioned to receive the curved end portions when the collet is inserted into the collet receiving passage.
US09156089B2 Process for producing a target by thermal spraying
Process for producing a target by thermal spraying, especially by plasma spraying, said target comprising at least one compound chosen from refractory metals, resistive oxides and volatile oxides, characterized in that at least one fraction of said compound in the form of a powder composition of said compound is sprayed by thermal spraying, onto at least one surface portion of the target, in a controlled atmosphere and in that powerful cryogenic cooling jets directed onto the target during its construction are used.
US09156088B2 Au—Ag core-shell nanorod particles and method for producing same
Disclosed are: Au—Ag core-shell nanorod particles wherein a cationic surfactant such as CTAB is substituted by an other compound; and a method for producing the Au—Ag core-shell nanorod particles. Specifically disclosed are Au—Ag core-shell nanorod particles which are characterized in that each of the nanorod particles comprises a gold nanorod particle that serves as the core, a shell layer that covers the surface of the gold nanorod particle and is formed from silver, and a copolymer that adsorbs on the surface of the shell layer. The Au—Ag core-shell nanorod particles are also characterized in that the copolymer is a block copolymer or graft copolymer that is obtained by polymerizing at least a polymerizable monomer (A) that has a group represented by general formula (I). In the formula, Ra represents an alkylene group having 2-7 carbon atoms.
US09156080B2 Casting die
A casting die applied with laser machining and carbon-film coating on a die surface is provided with multiple grooves formed spaced at a predetermined pitch by the laser machining; multiple ridges between the multiple grooves; and multiple carbon portions buried in the multiple grooves by the carbon-film coating, wherein the die surface with the ridge and the carbon portion alternately disposed is configured such that molten metal flows thereon; the grooves are 45 μm or less in opening width and 60 μm or more in depth; and the ridge has, on a top surface thereof applied with the laser machining, multiple micro-grooves for reducing a contact area with the molten metal. The casting die is aimed to balance expanding the groove width and increasing a thickness of the carbon film and to achieve suppression of the molten metal entering into the groove and exfoliation of the carbon film.
US09156077B2 Method of making border wire
An apparatus is provided which makes a border wire having a rectangular cross-section. The apparatus is adapted to receive a roll of wire having a circular cross-section, straighten the wire and change the cross-section of the wire to rectangular. The reconfigured wire is then accumulated, passed through another straightener, cut to size and then bent into a rectangular configuration. Opposed ends of the piece of wire having a rectangular cross-section are welded together to complete the border wire. The apparatus has an ejector which removes the completed border wire from the apparatus.
US09156071B2 Roll nip regulation device and method
A compact roll arrangement has a device and method for regulating the roll nip so that intermittently coated films may be calendared precisely. A bearing block is arranged in a bearing jewel, and first lever arms of the clamping latch of the upper roll and the lower roll are connected rigidly to one another. Bearing jewels which lie opposite to one another, of the upper roll and the lower roll are connected to one another via a second actuating element. A controller acts on first and second actuating elements, so that the first actuating elements are moved to adjust the roll nip according to a predetermined thrust and a predetermined linear load, and the second actuating elements are moved to maintain the bearing jewels in a relative rest position which is defined by specified densification of a material web passing the roll nip.
US09156070B2 Cold rolled material manufacturing equipment and cold rolling method
Cold rolled material manufacturing equipment comprises: an unwinding device for unwinding a hot rolled coil after acid pickling; joining means, disposed on the exit side of the unwinding device, for joining the tail end of a preceding coil to the leading end of a succeeding coil unwound from the unwinding device; a rolling mill for continuously rolling the coils in one direction; a strip storage device, disposed between the joining means and the rolling mill, for storing a strip to perform continuous rolling during the joining; a strip cutting device for cutting the strip to a desired length; a winding device for winding the rolled coil; transport means for transporting the coil to the unwinding device so that the coil is rolled a plurality of times; and a rolling speed control device for controlling a rolling speed during the joining to a lower speed than a steady rolling speed.
US09156067B2 Toothbrush steam cleaning container
Disclosed is a toothbrush storage and sanitizing container, comprising a housing having a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion comprises an interior fluid reservoir and an open interior between the reservoir and the walls of the housing for retaining the handles of at least one toothbrush. The upper portion is a removable enclosure that supports the toothbrush heads in an upstanding configuration. A nozzle device connects the reservoir to the upper portion of the housing, while a heating element within the reservoir rapidly heats and vaporizes the water therein. High pressure and high temperature steam is communicated through the nozzle ports in the upper portion of the housing to subject the toothbrush heads to a burst or continuous spray of steam for cleaning and sanitation purposes.
US09156043B2 Arc adjustable rotary sprinkler with automatic matched precipitation
A rotary sprinkler is provided herein capable of providing automatic matched precipitation to arc adjustments. Sprinklers herein includes an arc setting assembly or mechanism that enables reversing, part-circle operation or, in some cases, full-circle operation with automatic matched precipitation coupled to the arc setting mechanism operable to effect automatic matched precipitation based on adjustments to the arc of rotation of the nozzle turret.
US09156042B2 Systems and methods for dispensing texture material using dual flow adjustment
An aerosol dispensing system for dispensing stored material in a spray comprises a container, a conduit, a valve system, a first adjustment system, and a second adjustment system. The container defines a chamber containing the stored material and pressurized material. The conduit defines a conduit passageway having a conduit inlet and a conduit outlet. The conduit inlet is arranged within the chamber, and the conduit outlet is arranged outside of the chamber. The valve system is arranged to allow and prevent flow of stored material along the conduit passageway. The first adjustment system is arranged to control flow of stored material along the conduit passageway. The first adjustment system is arranged between the conduit inlet and the conduit outlet. The second adjustment system is arranged to control flow of stored material along the conduit passageway. The second adjustment system is arranged between the first adjustment system and the conduit outlet.
US09156018B2 Vaporisation in oxidation to phthalic anhydride
In the production of phthalic anhydride by the oxidation of ortho-xylene with air, the ortho-xylene loading is increased without increasing the likelihood of explosion by insulating the system to avoid cold spots to keep the ortho-xylene at a temperature above its dew point; in addition the system may be electrically interconnected and grounded to reduce the risk of spark initiated explosions or deflagrations.
US09156016B2 Apparatus and method for making solid beads
An apparatus for making solid beads is provided, the apparatus comprising at least one liquid droplet generator operable to generate droplets comprising a solute dissolved in a solvent, and at least one flow channel for carrying a second liquid, at least one liquid droplet generator and at least one flow channel being spaced relative to one another so that, in use, liquid droplets pass through a gas into a second liquid provided in said flow channel, the solvent being soluble in the second liquid so as to cause the solvent to exit the droplets, thus forming solid beads. A method of preparing solid beads is also provided.
US09156013B2 Solution making system and method
A solution making system and apparatus are described. The solution maker mixes a chemical or slurry with a solvent to a desired concentration. The concentration of the solution is monitored by one or more methods. Based upon this measurement, the concentration of the solution may be adjusted.
US09156007B2 Seeding method for deposit of thin selective membrane layers
A process of producing transition metal-based membranes or other layers on a porous support is provided. The layers are suitable for hydrogen separation, oxygen separation, or protective or decorative purpose sand are produced by pretreating the porous support by coating with a solution of a transition metal salt, drying the seeded support, reducing the transition metal salt to transition metal metal, and electroless plating with a complex of a transition metal (palladium, silver or other) and optionally other metals. The membranes can be tubular with a transition metal layer of 1-10 μm on its outside.
US09156004B2 Fabrication of enclosed nanochannels using silica nanoparticles
In accordance with the invention, there is a method of forming a nanochannel including depositing a photosensitive film stack over a substrate and forming a pattern on the film stack using interferometric lithography. The method can further include depositing a plurality of silica nanoparticles to form a structure over the pattern and removing the pattern while retaining the structure formed by the plurality of silica nanoparticles, wherein the structure comprises an enclosed nanochannel.
US09155998B2 Reactive extraction process for regeneration of amine-based solvents used for carbon dioxide capture
A method for recovery of impurities and/or degradation products and/or heat-stable salts from amine-based solvents used for capture of CO2 from gas streams. The method comprises recovering CO2 from a CO2-enriched amine-based solvent thereby producing a lean amine-based solvent, contacting and mixing together the lean amine-based solvent with a reaction composition comprising a phase-change catalyst and a diluent, thereby producing a first organic phase comprising the impurities and/or degradation products and/or heat-stable salts and a first aqueous phase comprising the lean amine-based solvent, separating the first organic phase and the first aqueous phase; and separately recovering the first organic phase and the first aqueous phase. The organic phase can be regenerated by intermixing with a NaOH solution to form an organic phase comprising therein the reaction composition and and an aqueous phase comprising the NaOH solution with the impurities and/or degradation products and/or heat-stable salts.
US09155984B2 Screen carrier element for a filtration device having at least one screen cavity
The invention relates to a screen carrier element (100) for a filtration device comprising at least one screen cavity (101) for arranging at least one filter unit (10) therein, a support tube (15) having cut-outs (15.4) and a plurality of disk filter elements (11), each having a central hub (11.3) with which they are mounted on the support tube (15). A semi-permeable filter medium (11.1) surrounds the hub and is spread out to form a three-dimensional structure. At least one flow channel (11.4) extends in the hub element (11.5) from the main body enveloped by the filter medium (11.1) to the support tube (15), wherein the support tube (15) leads into an outlet channel (102) of the screen carrier element (100). The support tube (15) comprises a bearing section (15.1, 15.2) protruding from beneath the disk filter elements, and said bearing section can be inserted into the outlet channel (102) from the screen cavity (101). The outlet channel (102) is designed as a tapered bore over at least a part of the length thereof, which opens toward the screen cavity (101). At the same time, the bearing section of the support tube (15) has at least one tapered section (15.2) which engages with the tapered bore.
US09155982B2 Poss-modified support element
A support element, comprising a netting comprising a composition comprising a polyphenylene sulfide resin and at least one polyhedral oligimeric silsequioxane additive, is provided.
US09155978B2 Solution separating apparatus
A very highly concentrated solution is obtained in a single cycle of operation. In the solution separating apparatus, the solution is atomized into the mists to be mixed with the carrier gas, the carrier gas containing such atomized mists is transferred to the collection unit 3, and the collection unit 3 is so constructed and arranged that a specific target substance is separated and collected from the atomized mist component. The solution separating apparatus allows the mist component, by means of the carrier gas, to be in contact with the molecular sieving adsorbent 4 having a molecularly sieving capability of adsorbing the adsorbable component contained in the mist component so as to be separated from the mist component. The non-adsorbable component which is not adsorbed into the molecular sieving adsorbent 4 is separated from the mist component contained in the carrier gas in which the adsorbable component is separated, so that the target substance is separated from the carrier gas.
US09155974B2 Play mat and system
A play mat is formed from a cushion material enclosed by fabric. A flexible rod-like element with a substantially continuous outer surface may be fixedly coupled to a portion of the mat. A slidable member is slidingly coupled with the rod-like element. In some cases, at least one article is coupled to the slidable member. The article includes a first item coupled to a second item by a length of material. The first item may be resilient so that the article is coupled to the slidable member when the first item is compressed and passed through an opening of the slidable member so that at least a portion of the length of material is positioned within the opening.
US09155971B1 Selective illumination of physical scenery in amusement park rides
A selective illumination system for use with amusement park rides and other attractions. The system includes a first light source illuminating a first set of items in a physical set and also includes a second light source illuminating a second set of items in the physical set. The system further includes a first set of optical filters operating in time synchronization with the first light source to pass light from the illuminated first set of items and also includes a second set of optical filters operating in time synchronization with the second light source to pass light from the illuminated first set of items. The optical filters of the first and second sets may be shutter glasses or other filters that are operated at high rates to selectively pass received light, and the first and second light sources are operated in a time multiplexed manner synchronized with the optical filters.
US09155968B2 System and method for tournament gaming using social network based team formation
A method is disclosed of enabling a player to use remote home terminals or mobile devices via a network to enroll in a casino tournament gaming system, in addition to winning prizes offered as an outcome of a primary game on underlying gaming machines located in a casino. The method includes enabling enrollment in the casino tournament gaming system to form tournament teams via remote home terminals or mobile devices, wherein the system uses existing social networks to leverage pre-existing relationships between players that are members of the social network to form tournament teams; enabling play of a game of chance on the underlying gaming machines that award game credits that are redeemable for a payout and are controlled by overall payout percentages relating to the game of chance; and facilitating entry into one or more skill-based tournament games in the player's tournament team against other tournament teams.
US09155966B2 Gaming server and system
Described herein are a gaming system, method, computer server, and computer program product that utilise a first gaming table and a predefined number of tokens. The gaming table includes a number of cells that correspond to the number of tokens and each token has an associated value. The tokens are stored in the cells of the gaming table, with one token in each cell, until all of the cells are populated. The gaming system, method, and computer program product of the present disclosure compute a score for a player by utilising the values associated with the tokens.
US09155961B2 Mobile agents for manipulating, moving, and/or reorienting components
Mobile agents automatically manipulate components such as blocks on a working surface, to perform operations such as construction of generalized structures. The working surface and/or the components can have machine-readable codes to assist the agents in maintaining current knowledge of their respective locations. Agents identify components by type and location, and can move components according to directions; such directions can be provided by a user, or can be based on a pre-programmed directive, or can be determined dynamically based on current conditions or in response to actions of other agents. Agents may cooperate with one another. Agents can also respond to changes in the environment, alterations in works in progress, and/or other conditions, and may be configured to exhibit responses simulating emotional reactions. Different mobile agents can be associated with different character traits, which may be configured to change based on environmental conditions and/or the behavior of other mobile agents.
US09155947B2 Variable length shaft and grip
A variable length shaft assembly comprising a shaft, a shaft adapter, a grip sleeve, an actuator screw, a grip, and a screw is disclosed herein. The grip is bonded to the grip sleeve, the shaft adapter is bonded to the shaft, and the shaft adapter comprises a keyed portion that mates with a keyed structure inside of the grip sleeve. The actuator screw comprises external threads that mate with internal threads inside the grip sleeve, and the location of the actuator screw within the grip sleeve can be adjusted with a wrench. Once the actuator screw is at a desired location within the grip sleeve, the shaft is semi-permanently fixed to the grip sleeve by releasably affixing the keyed structure of the shaft adapter to the actuator screw with the screw. The overall length of the assembly can be adjusted and fine-tuned using these structures.
US09155943B2 Adjustable golf club shaft and hosel assembly
An adjustable golf club including a shaft and hosel assembly allows for dependent and independent adjustment of a golf club's face angle, loft angle, and lie angle. The adjustable shaft and hosel assembly comprises a shaft sleeve, a hosel portion, and at least one tubular adjustment piece having non-parallel upper and lower surfaces, wherein the shaft sleeve, hosel, and tubular adjustment piece each include markings that combine to form a code that correlates to a unique angular setting and is readable by an electronic device. The adjustable golf club may also comprise an audible feedback system including an indexing ring that interacts with indexing features in the tubular adjustment piece.
US09155938B2 Golf ball core having medium positive hardness gradient and high surface hardness
A golf ball includes a single solid core having a surface hardness and a geometric center hardness. The core has an outer diameter of about 1.5 to 1.62 inches. An outer cover layer formed from a polyurea or polyurethane has a first hardness, and an inner cover layer, disposed between the core and the outer cover, has a second hardness greater than the first hardness and within 5 Shore C of the core surface hardness. The geometric center hardness is about 64 to 85 Shore C, and the core surface hardness is greater than 85 Shore C and harder than the geometric center hardness by about 5 to 22 Shore C to define a positive hardness gradient.
US09155937B2 Multi-layered cores with thermoplastic and thermoset layers for golf balls
Multi-piece golf balls containing a multi-layered core structure having layers with different hardness gradients and specific gravities are provided. The core structure includes a small, heavy inner core (center) having a relatively high specific gravity with metal material preferably dispersed in a first thermoset composition. The intermediate core layer is preferably formed from a thermoplastic composition such as an ethylene acid copolymer ionomer resin; and the outer core layer is preferably formed from a second thermoset composition. The resulting ball has high resiliency and good spin control.
US09155936B2 Golf ball
This invention pertains to a golf ball which includes a core, optionally one or more intermediate layers; and an outer cover layer. The outer cover layer and/or one or more intermediate layers includes a blend of a) about 2 to about 40 wt % (based on the total weight of the blend composition) of an aramid polymer and b) about 60 to about 98 wt % (based on the total weight of the blend composition) of one or more additional polymer components. The blend composition has a melt flow index (MFI) from about 1 to about 80 g/10 min., a material hardness of about 30 to about 90 Shore D, and a flex modulus of about 10 to about 120 kpsi.
US09155933B2 High knees exercise apparatus
A high knees exercise apparatus includes a base, a driving mechanism, a linkage mechanism and two magnetic resistance. The driving mechanism is located on the base and includes two driving member which is driven swung along arc path. The linkage mechanism is for leading the driving members swung reversely in response to each other. The two magnetic resistance devices are for providing magnetic resistances in accordance with swings of the two driving members respectively.
US09155930B2 Kinetic dumbbell
A kinetic dumbbell includes offset weighted ends keyed to a single axle and a grip residing over the axle and between the weighted ends. The axle and weighted ends are free to rotate with respect to the grip. The weighted ends include slots accepting weights to adjust an offset weight of each weighted end. A timer/counter may be attached to one end to signal a user that an exercise is completed. The axle is attached to the weighted ends using a key through the axle, the key residing in channels in the weighted ends to rotationally fixing the axle to each weighted end, and screws and washers to hold the weighted ends on the axle. Bushings reside over the axle and engage each end of the handle to position the handle on the axle.
US09155923B2 Portable respirators suitable for agricultural workers
Portable personal respiratory protection devices include a self-contained head gear member with a chin collar that has a front segment that defines a mouth portion and attaches to a back segment that resides over ears of a user and extends about a lower back segment of a head of the user. The head gear includes a visually transmissive face mask extending upwardly from the front segment of the chin collar that, in position, sealably engages a face of the user. The head gear has an open upper portion residing between an outer upper perimeter of the face mask and the back segment of the chin collar that, when worn, is adapted to expose a top and upper rear portion of a head of the user to environmental conditions.
US09155920B1 Pass-through device for environmental protection suit
A pass-through device is provided with one or more sealed connection channels which permit fluid to pass through an environmental protection suit. The device includes an inner housing and an outer housing formed from a flexible PVC with one or more respective inner channels and outer channels configured in each, such that when the inner housing and outer housing are connected, the inner channels and outer channels are sealably connected at a central channel opening to provide sealed conduits through which a fluid or gas passes. The inner housing and outer housing may be connected via a plurality of peripheral retention screws on the inner housing which interface with a plurality of peripheral barrel nuts on the outer housing.
US09155903B2 Wearable cardiac defibrillator receiving inputs by being deliberately tapped and methods
A wearable defibrillation system includes an output device and a motion sensor. The output device emits a sound or a vibration for the patient, who responds by deliberately tapping the system. The motion sensor registers the tapping, and interprets it as a reply from the patient. The reply can be that the patient is conscious, or convey data that the patient enters by tapping the right number of times, or that the patient wants attention, and so on. Since the patient does not need direct access to the wearable defibrillation system for tapping it, he or she can wear it under their other garments, which helps preserve their dignity and privacy.
US09155901B2 Implant charging field control through radio link
A charger that evaluates the effectiveness of the charging field generated by the charger at an implantable device. The charger includes a charging coil, a communication module, and a processor. The processor can include instructions to determine the effectiveness of the charging field based on one or several signals or communications received from the implantable device. The charger can use the determination of the effectiveness of the charging field to vary the strength of the charging field and/or to prompt the user to move the charger with respect to the implantable device.
US09155899B2 Antenna buffer layer for an electromagnetic control unit
A unit for wirelessly transmitting power to an implant unit configured to be located in a subject's body is provided. The unit may include a flexible carrier including an adhesive backing configured for attaching the unit to skin of the subject, an antenna associated with the flexible carrier, the antenna being configured to wirelessly transmit power to the implant unit in response to a signal applied to the antenna, and a buffer layer disposed on the flexible carrier at a position to be between the antenna and the skin of the subject when the carrier is attached to the skin of the subject, the buffer layer being configured to establish an air gap between the skin of the subject and the antenna.
US09155895B2 Dorsal column stimulation therapy
In some examples, the disclosure relates to system, devices, and techniques for delivering dorsal column stimulation. One or more locations for dorsal column stimulation may be identified based on sensed signals evoked by delivery of stimulation to a dorsal root and/or peripheral nerve of a patient. In some examples, an IMD may deliver dorsal column stimulation in combination with dorsal root stimulation to a patient to treat a patient condition.
US09155889B2 Methods and apparatus for treating glioma
A method of treating a patient suffering from a glioma. The method comprises delivering electrical energy to a glia at a margin of the glioma, thereby stimulating the glioma.
US09155885B2 Incontinence therapy
Techniques for managing urinary or fecal incontinence include delivering a first type of therapy to generate a first physiological response and, upon detecting a trigger event, delivering a second type of therapy to generate a second physiological response. The first type of therapy can be delivered on a substantially regular basis, while the second type of therapy is delivered as needed to provide an additional boost of therapy. The trigger event for activating the delivery of the second type of therapy may include input from a sensor that indicates a bladder condition, patient activity level or patient posture, or patient input. In some examples, the therapy is stimulation therapy.
US09155883B2 Systems and methods for making and using leads for electrical stimulation systems with improved RF compatibility
An implantable electrical stimulation lead includes electrodes and terminals disposed on opposing ends of the lead. A liner extends along a longitudinal length of the lead and has at least two different outer diameters. Conductors are coiled around the liner and electrically-couple the electrodes to the terminals. The conductors include a first conductor and a second conductor. The first conductor includes alternating first and second coiled regions. The first coiled regions have tighter pitches than the second coiled regions. The second conductor includes alternating third and fourth coiled regions. The third coiled regions have tighter pitches than the fourth coiled regions. The conductors are arranged into repeating adjacent winding geometries disposed along the longitudinal length of the lead. The repeating adjacent winding geometries each include one of the first coiled regions and one of the third coiled regions axially disposed adjacent to one another.
US09155881B2 Non-planar chip assembly
A non-planner integrated circuit device comprising a flexible structure and at least one fixture structure bonded to the flexible structure is described. The flexible structure may be curved in a desired deformation. A plurality of contact areas may be included in the flexible structure. Circuitry may be embedded within the flexible structure to perform processing operations. In one embodiment, the fixture structure may be bonded with the fixture structure via the contact areas to provide holding constraints allowing the flexible structure to remain curved. The bonding pads can also be used to connect communications in electrical signals.
US09155874B2 Medical elongated body
Disclosed herein is a medical elongated body including: a first channel through which a first liquid flows; a second channel through which a second liquid different from the first liquid in liquid composition flows; a mixing section at which the first channel and the second channel join and in which the first liquid and the second liquid are mixed; a gas channel through which a gas flows; a gas mixing-in section adapted to mix the gas into at least one of the first liquid flowing through the first channel and the second liquid flowing through the second channel or into a liquid mixture formed by mixing in the mixing section; a foaming member adapted to convert the liquid containing the gas mixed therein to a foamed material to be discharged; and a discharge port through which the foamed material to be discharged is discharged.
US09155870B2 Methods for crimping a polymeric scaffold to a delivery balloon and achieving stable mechanical properties in the scaffold after crimping
A medical device-includes a polymer scaffold crimped to a catheter having an expansion balloon. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes inflating the delivery balloon during a diameter reduction to improve scaffold retention. A crimping temperature is maintained at about the onset of glass transition of the polymer material to facilitate more rapid stabilization of mechanical properties in the scaffold following crimping.
US09155863B2 Multiple use stretching and non-penetrating blood control valves
The current invention relates to infusion devices, specifically to peripheral intravenous (IV) catheters. In particular, the invention relates to peripheral IV catheter assemblies having features to enable selective and reversible activation of fluid flow through the catheter assembly. Some implementations of the present invention include various configurations of septum valves having a barrier surface that is stressed to bias the barrier surface and provide a pathway through the septum valve.
US09155859B2 Ureteral access sheath
A ureteral access sheath adapted for insertion into a urethra includes an elongate tube extending between a proximal end and a distal end. A handle assembly is disposed at the proximal end and includes enlarged portions which inhibit migration of the sheath into the urethra. The enlarged portions are shaped like the bell of a horn with a concave, distally-facing outer surface and a convex, proximally-facing inner surface. The inner surface functions as a funnel while the outer surface is sized and configured to receive adjacent fingers of a user's hand held in its natural position. In an associated method, this shape of the handle assembly facilitates maintaining the sheath in a stationary position during insertion and removal of instrumentation. The handle assembly can be movable on the tube to facilitate variation of the sheath length.
US09155858B2 Liquid container for gas humidification and liquid storage device
Disclosed is a liquid container for gas humidification, which comprises a first storage chamber containing a bottom; and a second storage chamber comprising a top wall, a bottom wall and a side wall connected between the top wall and the bottom wall, the second storage chamber being provided with at least one opening which is above the bottom of the first storage chamber, thereby enabling the liquid in the second storage chamber to flow into the first storage chamber in a unidirectional way. In addition, also disclosed is a liquid storage device.
US09155856B2 Tracheotomy device
A tracheotomy device with a disposable flexible sheath furnished with a main channel for insertion of a support carrying endoscopic surgical instruments insertable in a trachea and a secondary channel for insertion of a perforation needle. The sheath has a spout curved in the perforating direction or susceptible of bending and configured as a dilator body having tapered shape so as to enter the hole formed in the trachea and to progressively dilate it.
US09155843B2 Integrated delivery device for continuous glucose sensor
Systems and methods for integrating a continuous glucose sensor, including a receiver, a medicament delivery device, and optionally a single point glucose monitor are provided. Manual integrations provide for a physical association between the devices wherein a user (for example, patient or doctor) manually selects the amount, type, and/or time of delivery. Semi-automated integration of the devices includes integrations wherein an operable connection between the integrated components aids the user (for example, patient or doctor) in selecting, inputting, calculating, or validating the amount, type, or time of medicament delivery of glucose values, for example, by transmitting data to another component and thereby reducing the amount of user input required. Automated integration between the devices includes integrations wherein an operable connection between the integrated components provides for full control of the system without required user interaction.
US09155840B1 Syringe assembly including volume indicating indicia
A syringe assembly for the delivery of medications or other liquid contents including an elongated hollow body at least partially formed by transparent material and including an indicia assembly for indicating volume measurement of and/or the existence of a void within the contained liquid. The indicia assembly includes a first indicia section and a second indicia section extending along a common wall portion, wherein a segregating section is disposed between the first and second indicia section and is structured to visually segregate the visual markings of the first and second indicia sections while being sufficiently contrasted in appearance to facilitate the independent viewing thereof. The first and second indicia sections are disposed and structured to be independently viewed along different lines of sight. One or more indicators may also be disposed on the syringe body to facilitate the determination of voids with the body interior.
US09155839B1 Syringe assembly including volume indicating indicia
A syringe assembly for the delivery of medications or other liquid compositions including an elongated hollow barrel at least partially formed by transparent material and including an indicia assembly for indicating volume measurement of the contained fluid. The indicia assembly includes a first indicia section and a second indicia section extending along a common wall portion, wherein a segregating section is disposed between the first and second indicia section and is structured to visually segregate the visual markings of the first and second indicia sections while being sufficiently contrasted in appearance to facilitate the independent viewing thereof. The first indicia section is disposed and structured to be viewable through an interior of the barrel, while the second indicia section is disposed and structured to be viewable from an exterior of the barrel in a direction towards an exterior surface of the common wall portion.
US09155829B2 Disposable single dosage sterile saline nasal spray system
Pure sodium chloride is dissolved in sterile distilled water to form a sterile pure saline solution. A hermetically sealed disposable spray container holds a single measured dosage of the solution for fully rinsing and cleansing a nasal passageway. The measured dosage is sufficient for rinsing and cleansing the nasal passage and harmless if the measured dosage mistakenly enters the lungs or sinuses or stomach of the user.
US09155822B2 Ventricular assist device sleeve adapter
A sleeve adapter for connecting a ventricular assist device to a ventricle of the heart.
US09155818B2 Cartilaginous and osteochondral substitute comprising multilayer structure and use thereof
The present invention relates to a multilayer structure (1) including a first upper layer (2) consisting of an organic matrix including collagen and at least a lower layer (3, 4, . . . 10) consisting of a composite matrix including hydroxylapatite and collagen. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a cartilaginous substitute including said multilayer structure (1) as well as an osteochondral substitute including said multilayer structure (1). Finally, the present invention relates to the use of said multilayer structure (1) for the preparation of said cartilaginous substitute and said osteochondral substitute for the treatment of cartilaginous defects and osteochondral defects or for the neo-formation of a cartilaginous tissue and/or a subchondral bone tissue.
US09155809B2 Pen sterilization device
A pen sterilization device includes a main body having a first end, a second end and a plurality of opposing sides defining a watertight reservoir for containing a sterilization agent. A pair of watertight valves are positioned along each end of the main body and function to allow ingress and egress of a pen to be cleaned. A central partition may be provided within the watertight reservoir having one or more brushes that are suspended in the sterilization agent for scrubbing a pen that is passing through the device.
US09155802B2 Pan-HER antibody composition
The present invention is directed to improved therapeutics against receptors within the EGFR/ErbB/HER family that more broadly interfere with multiple members of the HER family (pan-HER inhibition). More particularly, the invention is directed to the use of antibody compositions for human cancer therapy. In vitro studies have shown that the antibody compositions of the invention targeting multiple HER family receptors are superior to antibody compositions targeting only one HER family receptor.
US09155800B2 Antimicrobial fusion compounds and uses thereof
A fusion protein comprising at least one Type 1 Ribosome Inactivating Protein, polypeptide B; and at least one polypeptide A capable of viral entry inhibition; and/or at least one Cationic AntiMicrobial Peptide, polypeptide C.
US09155798B2 Receptor-targeting reagents containing epidermal factor receptor-binding agents and IL-13 receptor-binding agents or IL-4 receptor-binding agents
The present disclosure features, inter alia, receptor-targeting reagents (e.g., immunotoxic receptor-targeting reagents), methods of binding a receptor-targeting reagent to a cell and methods for treating a variety of disorders. Also featured are methods, compositions, and kits for selecting an appropriate treatment modality for a subject and/or treating a variety of disorders.
US09155792B2 RecA inhibitors with antibiotic activity, compositions and methods of use
The present invention is directed to the use of RecA inhibitors as antibiotic agents, and provides RecA inhibitors useful in treating infections. Also provided are various compositions and methods associated with RecA inhibition.
US09155791B2 Metallation enhancements in tumor-imaging and PDT therapy
A compound in the form of a metallized tetrapyrollic photosensitizer linked to a fluorescent dye where the photosensitizer (PS), is linked by a structure that does not have detrimental radiation emittance or absorbing characteristics, to a fluorophore, usually a cyanine dye (CD). The photosensitizer in accordance the invention is a metallized analog of porphyrins, chlorins, purpurinimides, bacterio pupurinimides, phthalocyanines, expanded porphyrins, benzoporphyrin derivatives and purpurins. The fluorophore is usually a cyanine dye with variable substituents. And, A method for determining effectiveness of PDT by comparing proportion of STAT-3 monomer with crosslinked STAT-3 dimer after PDT where the relative proportion of STAT-3 monomer to crosslinked STAT-3 directly correlates to efficacy of the PDT.
US09155787B2 Methods of preventing rejection of transplanted tissue by administering anti-CD40L antibody and dendritic cells loaded with type B peptide
A method is provided for preventing rejection by an immune system of a recipient subject of a tissue transplanted from a donor subject into the recipient subject without the need for long-term administration of non-specific immunosuppressive drugs.
US09155781B2 Compositions comprising semaphorins for the treatment of angiogenesis related diseases and methods of selection thereof
A method of selecting a semaphorin for treating cancer in a subject is disclosed. The method comprises determining an expression of a semaphorin receptor on tumor cells of a tumor sample of the subject wherein an amount of the semaphorin receptor is indicative of the semaphorin suitable for treating the cancer in the subject. Methods of treating angiogenesis, kits for treating cancer and pharmaceutical compositions comprising semaphorins are also disclosed.
US09155777B2 Use of melanocortins to treat insulin sensitivity
The present invention relates to peptide ligands of the melanocortin receptors, in particular the melanocortin-4 receptor, and as such, are useful in the treatment of disorders responsive to the activation of this receptor, such as insulin resistance.
US09155776B2 Low frequency glatiramer acetate therapy
A method of alleviating a symptom of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in a human patient suffering from relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis or a patient who has experienced a first clinical episode and is determined to be at high risk of developing clinically definite multiple sclerosis comprising administering to the human patient three subcutaneous injections of a therapeutically effective dose of glatiramer acetate over a period of seven days with at least one day between every subcutaneous injection so as to thereby alleviate the symptom of the patient.
US09155767B2 Essential element management
The invention extends the utility of apparatus used to extract medicinal cannabis compounds into an eluate by separating a portion of medicinal cannabis compounds contained within a portion of eluate at a first extraction target level providing enough clean solvent to continue extraction operations. A high efficiency concentrator such as a rotary evaporator or a wiped film evaporator processes eluate from one or more tanks or extraction vessels creating clean solvent when extraction targets are met or when clean solvent is exhausted. This manages eluate concentration levels and limits the quantity of concentrated medicinal cannabis compounds on site at any moment in time. The invention enables a business model for keeping medicinal cannabis compounds within a legal system, and reduces pollution because law enforcement would no longer have to burn large quantities of cannabis plant matter.
US09155763B2 Lgr5+ somatic stem cells
Described is an isolated somatic stem cell that is 2 to less than 6 micrometer in size and Lgr5+. Methods of preparing and using the cell are also described.
US09155761B2 Method for the treatment of cancer
The invention is based on the surprising finding that treatment with a chemotherapeutic agent such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and an autophagy inducer effectively inhibit the continued growth of, and prevent the recovery following drug withdrawal, of cancer cells. In vivo, drug resistance from a failure to adequately engage in apoptotic programmed cell death leads to a recurrence of cancer and tumors can remain dormant for periods of time before re-emerging as drug resistant metastases. It has been hypothesized that autophagy (Type II cell death) may help cancer cells survive in response to growth limiting conditions, such as nutrient depletion, hypoxia, absence of growth factor, or presence of cytotoxic drug. LiCl is a known autophagy inducer and accelerates cell survival to autophagic programmed cell death.
US09155759B2 Heterochain aliphatic poly-N-oxide copolymers and vaccinating agents and drugs based thereon
Heterochain aliphatic poly-N-oxide copolymers of general formula (1), where R═N, CH; x=2 or 4; y=0 or 2; n=10-1000; q=(0.1-0.9)n; z=(0.1-0.9)n, exhibit pharmacological activity, including an antioxidant effect and a therapeutic effect as a detoxicant and immunomodulating agent. The copolymer may be used as vaccinating agent also comprising an antigen and a vaccine against hepatitis A and hepatitis B, which contains a vaccine preparation comprising HVA Ag and HBsAg simultaneously or vaccine preparations against hepatitis A and against hepatitis B. The invention represents a new class of compounds that exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activity and a vaccination effect as well as increased safety in use, and is directed towards increasing manufacturability, cost efficiency and environmental safety in the production of drugs.
US09155753B2 Treatment of carcinomas with a combination of EGF-pathway and telomerase inhibitors
A method and kit for inhibiting the proliferation of carcinoma cells are disclosed, based on a combination of an EGF pathway inhibitor and a telomerase inhibitor. When used in cancer therapy, the two compounds in combination enhance the anti-cancer treatment efficacy obtained with the antibody alone or the telomerase inhibitor alone.
US09155752B2 Liver function-improving agent
The present invention provides a liver function-improving agent or an inhibitor of fat accumulation in the liver, which contains maltitol as an active ingredient. The present invention also provides a medicament for the prevention and/or treatment of hepatic dysfunction, which contains maltitol as an active ingredient.
US09155748B2 Aromatic carboxylic acid derivatives for treatment and prophylaxis of gastrointestinal diseases including colon cancers
Prodrug compounds which metabolize into 5-ASA or analogs thereof, and taurine or analogs thereof, in the colon site are disclosed. Pharmaceutical compositions including the compounds, and methods of treatment using the compounds, are also disclosed. Such compounds have utility for treating or preventing gastrointestinal disorders, including colon cancer, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
US09155741B2 Methods of using a methylxanthine compound
The invention relates to compositions and methods for treating various diseases or medical conditions by administering a methylxanthine compound. Specifically, the invention relates to compositions and methods for treating cytochrome oxidase (CcOX) mediated diseases or medical conditions by administering compositions comprising a methyl xanthine compound.
US09155740B2 Compositions and methods for treatment and prevention of hyperuricemia related health consequences
Disclosed herein are methods of delaying the onset or treating diabetes that comprises administering a uric acid lowering agent. The inventors have made the remarkable discovery that elevated uric acid levels are not a corollary to insulin resistance, but rather a primary mediator of insulin resistance. Specifically exemplified are methods that involve administering to a patient susceptible to development of diabetes a composition comprising a uric acid lowering agent in a regimen that maintains serum uric acid levels below at least 5.5 mg/dl, or below at least 5.2 mg/dl.
US09155731B1 Methods of non-gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures using L-hyoscyamine oral formulations
Methods of performing non-gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures with concomitant dosing with rapidly disintegrating oral formulations of single active ingredient L-Hyoscyamine rapidly dissolving tablets.
US09155730B2 Methods for treating non-hodgkin's lymphoma with 3-(4-amino-1-oxo-1,3-dihydroisoindol-2-yl)-piperidine-2,6-dione in combination with a second active agent
Methods of treating, preventing and/or managing cancer as well as and diseases and disorders associated with, or characterized by, undesired angiogenesis are disclosed. Specific methods encompass the administration of an immunomodulatory compound alone or in combination with a second active ingredient. The invention further relates to methods of reducing or avoiding adverse side effects associated with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy or immunotherapy which comprise the administration of an immunomodulatory compound. Pharmaceutical compositions, single unit dosage forms, and kits suitable for use in methods of the invention are also disclosed.
US09155728B2 Methods and materials for treating orthostatic hypotension or postural tachycardia syndrome
This document provides methods and materials related to treating orthostatic hypotension and/or postural tachycardia syndrome. For example, methods and materials for using a composition containing 3,4-diaminopyridine, 4-aminopyridine, or both to treat patients with orthostatic hypotension, postural tachycardia syndrome, or both orthostatic hypotension and postural tachycardia syndrome are provided.
US09155723B2 Anti-CXCR4 as a sensitizer to cancer therapeutics
Inhibition of CXCR4 can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis during certain therapeutic windows. Disclosed are novel methods for treating and preventing cancer in a subject related to administration of CXCR4 inhibitors during a therapeutic window following treatment with another anti-tumor therapy.
US09155715B2 Transdermal composition comprising tolterodine
A transdermal composition comprising tolterodine having improved storage stability is disclosed. The transdermal composition comprising tolterodine contains an antioxidant to stabilize tolterodine and can be stored for a long period of time.
US09155714B2 Compositions comprising an aromatic alcohol and a TRPV-1 antagonist, and uses thereof
A topical composition providing reduced irritation that contains aromatic alcohols such as phenoxyethanol and a TRPV-1 antagonist is described. The composition is substantially free of parabens. The composition may be used for example for cleansing the skin.
US09155707B2 Core-shell microspheres
The specification describes a substance comprising a plurality of microparticles. The microparticles comprise a core comprising a first polymer and a shell surrounding said core and comprising the first polymer and a second polymer, wherein the second polymer is less rapidly degradable than the first polymer. A process for making the microparticles and uses of the microparticles are also described.
US09155705B2 DPP-IV inhibitor combined with a further antidiabetic agent, tablets comprising such formulations, their use and process for their preparation
The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising fixed dose combinations of a DPP-4 inhibitor drug and a partner drug, processes for the preparation thereof, and their use to treat certain diseases.
US09155698B2 Method and apparatus for minimizing heat, moisture, and shear damage to medicants and other compositions during incorporation of same with edible films
A medicant composition is provided. The composition includes a film layer and a powder matrix layer. The powder matrix layer includes a medicant. The powder matrix layer is applied to the film layer by admixing particulate to form a powder matrix and by then applying the powder matrix to the film layer by any desired method. The composition of the powder matrix is varied to alter the dissolution rate of the medicant, the adhesion of the medicant composition, and other physical properties of the powder matrix. The powder matrix layer can be cured.
US09155697B2 Stable liquid compositions for treating stomatitis comprising epidermal growth factor
Provided is a liquid composition for treating stomatitis, the liquid composition including: an epidermal growth factor; an adhesive polymer; and at least one stabilizer selected from the group consisting of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and salts thereof, histidine, lysine and inorganic acid salts thereof, arginin and inorganic acid salts thereof, and dextran. The liquid composition includes a stabilizer selected from EDTA (or salts thereof) and a certain amino acid (or inorganic acid salts thereof) and thus, physicochemical and biological stability of the epidermal growth factor can be substantially increased. Thus, the liquid composition can be stored and distributed for a long period of time. The stabilized composition includes an adhesive polymer, and thus, when ejected in a spray form in the mouth of a user, the liquid composition can be quickly attached to an inflammation site and exhibits effectiveness for a long period of time.
US09155685B2 Low stress flowable dental composition
Disclosed herein are low viscosity and low stress dental compositions comprising at least one low stress polymerizable resin and at least one filler. The dental compositions described herein have high depth of cure and self-leveling characteristics and are capable of bulk application.
US09155677B2 System for gastrointestinal and vascular atrophy engineering to restore normal youthful bodily functions
The system includes one or more devices to improve performance of selected internal organs by stimulating the organs through vibrating action. Sources of vibration include a capsule, which can be swallowed, or a larger member that is introduced through the rectum or esophagus or applied into the abdominal cavity with or without incision. These vibration sources are either implanted and inserted for natural passage along the digestive tract, or they are retained at the end of a flexible shaft to reach their intended placement from access through the mouth or rectum. The vibrating capsule can be swallowed as well as implanted and released for natural passage along the small intestine and colon.
US09155671B2 Wound packing device and methods
Embodiments of the invention include wound packing devices and methods of making and using the same. In an embodiment, the invention includes a wound packing device including a plurality of spacing elements capable of absorbing exudate, wherein the surface of the spacing elements resist colonization by microorganisms. The wound packing device can also include a connector connecting the plurality of spacing elements to one another. Other embodiments are also included herein.
US09155667B2 Pants-type wearing article
A pant-type wearing article comprises a front panel, a rear panel and a central panel. The front panel cooperates with the rear panel to form a waist region. The central panel includes a front end portion separably joined to the outer side of the waist region and a rear end portion separably joined to the outer side of the waist region. Side edges of the front end portion opposed to each other in the transverse direction are formed with front side corner regions and side edges of the rear end portion opposed to each other in the transverse direction are formed with rear side corner regions. At least one of the paired front side corner regions and the paired rear side corner regions is not joined to the outer surface of the waist region to form a gripper region.
US09155665B2 Menstrual tampon
The disclosure concerns a compressed menstrual tampon including an elongated generally rod-shaped absorption body having an insertion end and a withdrawal end and having a withdrawal string extending from the withdrawal end. The absorption body has at least one wave-shaped compression line extending continuously from the insertion end to the withdrawal end.
US09155663B2 Personal disposable hygiene product including adhesive applied on an elastic strand
A method of dispensing adhesive onto a stretched elastic strand includes applying a first volume of adhesive onto a first portion of the elastic strand, applying a second volume of adhesive onto a second portion of the elastic strand, and applying a third volume of adhesive onto a third portion of the elastic strand. The second volume is less than the first and third volumes. When the elastic strand is adhered to a substrate to form a personal disposable hygiene product, the first and third portions of the elastic strand define opposing ends of the elastic strand, which are adhered with a larger amount of adhesive to resist creep at the opposing ends. The reduction of adhesive in the second or central portion between the opposing ends significantly reduces the adhesive add on in the personal disposable hygiene product.
US09155658B2 Systems and methods for dynamic patient fixation system
The field of the invention relates to systems and methods for ophthalmic laser procedure and, more particularly, to systems and methods for dynamic fixation used in the fixation of the eye(s) of a patient during laser-assisted ophthalmic surgery and/or ophthalmic diagnostic and measurement systems where visualization and concentration on a target are desired. The invention generally enhances the alignment between the eye and a laser beam of a laser eye surgery system using visual fixation system and laser delivery optics. The visual fixation system allows a patient's eye(s) to be accurately focused at one or more fixation targets.
US09155655B2 Ocular implants for delivery into the eye
An ocular implant adapted to reside at least partially in a portion of Schlemm's canal of an eye. The implant includes a spine extending along a longitudinal axis of the implant, a plurality of curved supports extending from the spine, each support comprising a first end extending from a first location on a first side of the spine and a second end extending from a second location on a second side of the spine, the second location being proximal to the first location, so that each support forms a portion of a helix, the spine and supports defining a volume having a maximum width perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between 0.005 inches and 0.04 inches, the ocular implant being configured to bend preferentially in a preferential bending plane.
US09155651B2 Back support system
A back support device including a flexible support adapted to be positioned adjacent a spine of a wearer, the flexible support extending along the spine in an “S” shape. A brace portion is coupled to the flexible support at ends of the flexible support, and is adapted to force the spring portion toward the spine as a wearer bends.
US09155650B2 Bariatric device and method for weight loss
A bariatric device 10 for use in inducing weight loss, comprising a lower stomach element 26 which contacts the lower stomach at least intermittently to produce a satiety signal to the user, giving a feeling of fullness and reducing hunger. The lower stomach element 26 may be combined with a positional element 25 extending into the upper stomach to maintain the device's position for at least intermittent contact with the lower stomach. Alternatively, first and second elements 12, 13 may be symmetrically attached to the positioning element 25, so that the device can orient itself either way in the stomach. The lower stomach, first, or second elements 26, 12, 13 may have a restriction element to slow gastric filling or emptying, to produce a satiety signal. In any of the embodiments, the bariatric device may be adjustable, either manually, automatically or remotely, to optimally size and/or position the device.
US09155643B2 Apparatus and method for manufacturing a single wire stent
A mandrel for manufacturing a stent from a single wire includes a cylindrical member having a plurality of pins at a proximal end region, a plurality of pins at a distal end region, and a plurality of indentations between the proximal pins and the distal pins. These indentations form a helical pattern on the outer surface of the cylindrical member. The single wire is wrapped around every proximal pin and distal pin on the mandrel by following the indentations in the mandrel. The single wire is slid through the indentation under any crossing section of wire and over the next crossing section of wire in an under-over pattern.
US09155637B2 Bioabsorbable stent with hydrothermal conversion film and coating
A stent includes a bioabsorbable metal, a hydrothermal conversion film covering the bioabsorbable metal, and a coating covering the hydrothermal conversion film. A method for manufacturing a stent includes forming a stent body comprising a bioabsorbable metal, forming a hydrothermal conversion film over surfaces of the stent body, and coating the hydrothermal conversion film with an overcoat.
US09155634B2 Systems and methods of myoelectric prosthesis control
Embodiments of the invention provides myoelectric prosthesis control system that include a gel liner that has a plurality of layers and a plurality of leads at least partially positioned between the plurality of layers. In addition, a plurality of electrodes can be coupled to the leads and portions of the electrodes can also be positioned between the plurality of layers. At least some of the electrodes can include an electrode pole that is configured to contract the residual limb to detect electromyographic signals.
US09155623B2 Implantable medical device and method of implanting the medical device
An implantable medical device for implantation in a mammal joint having at least two contacting surfaces is provided. The medical device comprises; an artificial contacting surface adapted to replace at least the surface of at least one of the mammal's joint contacting surfaces, wherein the artificial contacting surface is adapted to be lubricated, when implanted in said joint. Furthermore the medical device comprises at least one inlet adapted to receive a lubricating fluid from a reservoir, at least one channel at least partly integrated in the artificial contacting surface in connection with the at least one inlet for distributing the lubricating fluid to the surface of the artificial contacting surface. The medical device could be adapted to be operable by an operation device to receive the distributed lubricated fluid from a reservoir.
US09155617B2 Prosthetic mitral valve
A prosthetic mitral valve with a compressible and expandable stent that, when expanded, is circumferentially oval, elliptical, or D-shaped, with a major axis and a minor axis ratio of from about 3:4 to about 4:5. Embodiments of the stent comprise three commissure posts disposed towards an outflow end and three curved cusp regions between adjacent commissure posts. Three flexible leaflets are attached to the commissure posts in a tri-foil configuration. Embodiments of the prosthetic mitral valve include an atrial ring disposed at the inflow end of the stent.
US09155616B2 Prosthetic heart valve with expandable microspheres
A prosthetic heart valve includes a valve assembly mounted to an expandable stent. The prosthetic heart valve includes a cuff coupled to the stent. The cuff includes a pocket formed between an outer side and an inner side of the cuff. The pocket includes a plurality of biocompatible and irreversibly expandable microspheres. After implantation of the prosthetic heart valve into a patient, any gaps existing between the cuff and the native heart valve are exposed to bodily fluid, such as blood. The blood enters the pocket of the cuff through pores in the outer side of the cuff. The blood interacts with the microspheres, causing irreversible expansion of the microspheres. The microspheres expand to fill any gaps between the prosthetic heart valve and the native heart tissue, sealing the gaps and preventing leakage through the gaps.
US09155613B2 Methods for creating foam-like texture
Methods for creating a foam-like texture on an implantable material are provided. More particularly, methods for creating foam-like texture on implantable silicone materials are provided.
US09155611B2 Branch vessel stent graft
A stent graft (10) has a tubular body of a biocompatible material and a side arm (20) fastened to the tubular body. A tubular extension piece (24) is sealingly joined to the end of the side arm and extends from it. It can be joined with adhesive or stitching. The extension piece can be formed from an elastomeric biocompatible material such as Thoralon™. The extension piece can have a resilient reinforcement 44 embedded into it and extending longitudinally. The extension piece is tucked back into the side arm during deployment of the stent graft into a body lumen.
US09155610B2 System and atraumatic mandrel for creating graft devices
In some aspects, a system for applying a fiber matrix on a tubular conduit is provided. The system can include a tubular conduit, a mandrel and a fiber matrix delivery assembly. The mandrel can comprise an elongate shaft and a rolling membrane configured to atraumatically engage the tubular conduit.
US09155609B2 Bariatric sleeve
Method and apparatus for limiting absorption of food products in specific parts of the digestive system is presented. A gastrointestinal implant device is anchored in the stomach and extends beyond the ligament of Treitz. All food exiting the stomach is funneled through the device. The gastrointestinal device includes an anchor for anchoring the device to the stomach and a flexible sleeve. When implanted within the intestine, the sleeve can limit the absorption of nutrients, delay the mixing of chyme with digestive enzymes, altering hormonal triggers, providing negative feedback, and combinations thereof. The anchor is collapsible for endoscopic delivery and removal.
US09155604B1 Extraocular muscle support sling
An extraocular muscle support sling and a method for surgically implanting the sling to reinforce a weak or ineffective extraocular muscle. The sling includes a semi-flexible anchor base and a pair of elastic arms which extend from the anchor base and are held together to create a loop. During implantation, the anchor base of the sling is attached to a movable target tissue of the patient, and the looped elastic arms are attached to an immobile base tissue. A pulling or tensioned force applied to the elastic arms causes the patient's movable target tissue to which the anchor base is attached to be pulled towards and oriented with respect to the immobile base tissue with the same force and in the same direction as would be the case had the muscle been normal. According to preferred embodiments, the extraocular muscle support sling has particular application for treating ptosis and strabismus.
US09155602B1 Windowed muzzle system
A muzzle formed of a flexible sheet has a top, a bottom, and laterally spaced sides. A central hole in the muzzle is equally spaced from the sides, closer to the bottom than to the top. Two laterally spaced side holes are in the muzzle between the central hole and the sides. A restraint in a generally rectangular configuration has opposed free ends. Fasteners are secured to the restraint adjacent to the free ends. Attachment elements couple the muzzle and the restraint.
US09155589B2 Sequential activation RF electrode set for renal nerve ablation
A catheter includes a flexible shaft having a length sufficient to access a patient's renal artery. A treatment element at the distal end of the shaft is dimensioned for deployment within the renal artery. The treatment element comprises a radially expandable structure configured to maintain positioning within the renal artery. A multiplicity of electrodes are spaced apart on the treatment element and configured for switchable activation and deactivation in a predetermined sequence to generate overlapping zones of heating directed at perivascular nerves of the renal artery. The overlapping heating zones comprise a distal zone associated with relatively high current densities at a distance from the treatment element sufficient to ablate the perivascular renal nerves and a proximal zone associated with current densities lower than those of the distal zone and insufficient to cause thermal injury to tissue of the renal artery adjacent the treatment element.
US09155568B2 Bone anchoring device
A bone anchoring device includes an anchoring element having a shaft and a head; a receiving part having a top end, a bottom end, a rod recess, a coaxial bore, and a seat; and a pressure element that is movable within the bore. The head is pivotable with respect to the receiving part and can be fixed at an angle by exerting pressure via the pressure element onto the head. The pressure element has an outer wall portion having a recess or a projection. The receiving part has an inner wall portion having a recess or a projection that cooperates with the recess or projection of the pressure element. The pressure element is configured to assume a first position within the receiving part in which the recess and the projection interact to allow the pressure element to exert a preload onto the head and the head is prevented from freely pivoting but is not locked.
US09155558B2 Insufflating optical surgical instrument
An insufflating surgical instrument adapted for movement across an abdominal wall to insufflate an abdominal region of a patient is disclosed. The instrument comprises a shaft having an insufflation channel extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the insufflation channel being adapted for connection to a source of fluid under pressure at the proximal end. A tip is at the distal end and a vent hole is formed in the tip being in connection with the insufflation channel and adapted to expel fluid under pressure to insufflate the abdominal region. The tip is formed of a transparent material to facilitate visualization of the abdominal wall and region. The shaft includes a lumen extending along the axis between the proximal end and the distal end to enable insertion of a laparoscope. The lumen and insufflation channel may be formed as separate channels or as one shared channel.
US09155549B2 Hydrophobically modified alkali soluble emulsion composition with polymeric beads
The present invention relates to a composition comprising an aqueous dispersion of a film-forming polymer, spherical polymer beads, a HASE rheology modifier, and optionally a pigment. The composition is useful in coatings compositions.
US09155540B2 Embolic coil detachment mechanism with heating element and kicker
Provided herein are a system, method, and apparatus for delivering a therapeutic device, e.g. an embolic coil, from a delivery tube at a target site in a patient's body. A heating element is disposed in the delivery tube that can be actuated remotely, and a layer of low temperature adhesive is applied at the heating element to retain the therapeutic device. The kicker in the form of, for example, a compressed spring is mounted within the delivery tube so as to be in contact with the therapeutic device for applying a constant ejector force that is countered by the adhesive force of the low temperature adhesive. When the heating element is actuated, the spring's ejector force overcomes the softened adhesive's adhesive force to force the therapeutic device out of the delivery tube.
US09155531B2 Miniaturized dual drive open architecture suture anchor
The disclosure provides examples of an open architecture anchor for securing soft tissue to bone, for example, to repair a torn rotor cuff. The anchor includes at least one open helical coil defining a polygonal internal volume and at least one rib disposed within the polygonal internal volume and connected to at least two turns of the at least one open helical coil. The at least one rib is sized to engage a driver and a combination of the at least one rib and the polygonal internal volume is sized to provide an anchor drive torque required to drive the anchor into bone.
US09155518B2 Ultrasound imaging apparatus and method for generating ultrasound image
For a three-dimensional region including a treatment target site of a patient, a puncture needle scanning region R1 having a slice thickness d1 is set with reference to a cross section (a puncture cross section) including an insertion direction of a puncture needle. Subsequently, in the y-direction substantially perpendicular to the puncture cross section, two treatment target scanning regions R2 (R21 and R22) each being adjacent to the puncture needle scanning region R1 and having a slice thickness d2 are set. Then, based on volume data in the puncture needle scanning region R1 acquired by first three-dimensional scan with ultrasound waves and volume data in the treatment target scanning regions R2 acquired by second three-dimensional scan performed at a lower volume rate than the first three-dimensional scan, image data is generated for the purpose of supporting puncture.
US09155513B2 Systems and methods for determining hepatic function from liver scans
Systems and methods described herein determine an objective metric for analyzing health of a patient's liver. In some embodiments, the system may include a scanner that can detect radiation counts responsive to administration of radioactive compound to a patient. Further, the system may include an image detection module that can access image data responsive to the detected radiation counts by the scanner. The image detection module can programmatically identify a first region of interest corresponding to a liver of the patient from the image data. A parameter calculator module can programmatically determine a first attribute associated with the first region of interest and calculate a first parameter indicating health of the liver of the patient based at least in part on the first attribute associated with the first region of interest.
US09155511B2 Breast image capturing apparatus
In a breast image capturing apparatus having an arm section for moving a radiation source in a left-right direction in front of a subject, providing a shielding member for preventing radiation from being applied to the face of the subject on an arm section, and supporting the shielding member movably relative to the arm section when the face of the subject is abutted to the shielding member and fixedly relative to the arm section when the face of the subject is not abutted to the shielding member.
US09155507B2 Method to detect and indicate inaccuracies in long length imaging
Method of generating radiation images of an elongate body by applying different computer-implemented stitching methods to the same set of partial radiation images. A warning is generated in case of substantial deviation between the applied stitching methods.
US09155503B2 Apparatus, system, and method for mapping the location of a nerve
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for mapping the location of a nerve. The apparatus includes at least one stimulation module, a stimulation detection module, a distance module, and a mapping module. The stimulation module stimulates a nerve with an electrical stimulation current from at least one stimulation electrode. A stimulation detection module detects a muscle reaction resulting from stimulation of the nerve by the at least one stimulation electrode. The distance module uses information from the at least one stimulation electrode and from the stimulation detection module to calculate a distance between the at least one stimulation electrode and the nerve. The mapping module maps a location on the nerve using at least two distances calculated by the distance module and position information of the at least one stimulation electrode for each of the at least two distances calculated.
US09155499B2 Analyte sensors comprising high-boiling point solvents
Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to analyte determining methods and devices (e.g., electrochemical analyte monitoring systems) that have improved uniformity of distribution of the sensing layer by inclusion of a high-boiling point solvent, where the sensing layer is disposed proximate to a working electrode of in vivo and/or in vitro analyte sensors, e.g., continuous and/or automatic in vivo monitoring using analyte sensors and/or test strips. Also provided are systems and methods of using the, for example electrochemical, analyte sensors in analyte monitoring.
US09155497B1 Compact biosensor of matrix metalloproteinase with cadmium free quantum dots
The invention provides a quantum dot (QD) modified optical fiber-based biosensor which characterizes matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) enzyme activity at pain signaling sites in the central nervous system (CNS) in vivo. Related systems and peptide biomarker screening methods are also provided.
US09155493B2 Methods and apparatus for calibrating respiratory effort from photoplethysmograph signals
Breathing effort of a patient, as determined (for example) from a photoplethysmograph (“PPG”) signal from the patient, can be calibrated in relation to air pressure in the patient's respiratory system. This calibration can be done by subjecting the patient to varying amounts of breathing resistance; and for each such amount, concurrently measuring (1) air pressure in the respiratory system (e.g., in the oral/nasal cavity) and (2) breathing effort (from the PPG signal). Use can be made of this calibration, e.g., during a sleep study of the patient. During such a study, breathing effort, again determined from the PPG signal and occurring, for example, during an apneic event of the patient, can be used to infer air pressure in the respiratory system by using the above calibration.
US09155482B2 Apparatus and method for indicating cardiac output
An apparatus for indicating cardiac output comprises means for monitoring a patient's transthoracic impedance and generating a corresponding impedance signal, and signal processing means for (a) deriving a signal S1 which is a measure of the average amplitude of the impedance signal, (b) filtering the impedance signal at a plurality of different wavelengths within a predetermined frequency band, (c) for each filter deriving a signal S2 which is a measure of the average amplitude of the respective filter output, (d) calculating the ratio of the maximum one of the signals S2 derived from step (c) to the signal S1 derived from step (a), and (e) using the ratio from step (d) in a decision tree to provide a signal indicating cardiac output or not.
US09155480B2 Multimodal laser speckle imaging
A system for multimodal laser speckle imaging may include a first light source positioned to emit laser light toward a target, a second light source positioned to emit light toward the target, a camera positioned to receive light scattered from the target, and a processor. The processor may be programmed to receive from the at least one camera at least one image of the target as illuminated by the laser, obtain a laser speckle contrast image of the target from the at least one image of the target as illuminated by the laser, receive from the at least one camera at least one image of the target as illuminated by the second light source, divide the laser speckle contrast image into subparts, and divide the at least one image of the target as illuminated by the second light source into identical subparts, determine whether each subpart includes a feature of a certain type by combining each subpart of the laser speckle contrast image with the at least one image of the target as illuminated by the second light source and comparing the combination with one or more criteria, and outputting the location and type of features detected in a subpart of the images.
US09155478B2 Methods and systems for determining an algorithm setting based on a difference signal
A physiological monitoring system may determine physiological information, such as physiological rate information, from a physiological signal. The system may generate a difference signal based on the physiological signal and sort the difference signal to generate a sorted difference signal. The system may identify a midpoint of a first segment of the difference signal and a midpoint of a second segment of the difference signal. The first segment may correspond to positive values of the difference signal and the second segment may correspond to negative values of the difference signal. The system may determine an algorithm setting based on the first midpoint and the second midpoint. The algorithm setting may, for example, affect the amount of filtering applied to the physiological signal.
US09155477B2 Pressurizing apparatus
A pressurizing apparatus includes a lower frame and an upper frame. A first end of the upper frame may be hinged to the lower frame at a rotation axis, and a second end of the upper frame may be rotated about the rotation axis by an actuator. A pressurizing unit may be combined to the upper frame in such a way that the pressurizing unit is rotatable relative to the upper frame. When the actuator rotates the second end of the upper frame, the pressurizing unit pressurizes an object to be pressurized.
US09155475B2 Enabling hybrid video capture of a scene illuminated with unstructured and structured illumination sources
What is disclosed is a system and method for enabling hybrid video capture of a scene being illuminated with structured and unstructured illumination sources over a wavelength range of interest that significantly intersects with each other. In one embodiment, the present system comprises a video capture device for capturing video of a scene being actively illuminated by both a structured and unstructured illumination source; a controller for controlling a manipulation of at least one structured and at least one unstructured illumination sources during capture of the video by the video capture device; and a processor in communication with the controller, the processor executing machine readable program instructions effectuating the manipulation. Various embodiments are disclosed.
US09155467B1 Contoured facial mask with multiple contact probes for use with tactile tonometer
A system for measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye, comprising a plurality of force sensors that are adapted to contact a surface of an eye, measuring the forces exerted on the force sensors when in contact with the eye surface, and processing the measured forces to determine the 10P of the eye as a function of the measured forces.
US09155465B2 Snapshot spectral domain optical coherence tomographer
Provided is a snapshot spectral domain optical coherence tomographer comprising: a light source providing a plurality of beamlets; a beam splitter, splitting the plurality of beamlets into a reference arm and a sample arm; a first optical system that projects the sample arm onto multiple locations of a sample; a second optical system for collection of a plurality of reflected sample beamlets; a third optical system projecting the reference arm to a reflecting surface and receiving a plurality of reflected reference beamlets; a parallel interferometer that provides a plurality of interferograms from each of the plurality of sample beamlets with each of the plurality of reference beamlets; an optical image mapper configured to spatially separate the plurality of interferograms; a spectrometer configured to disperse each of the interferograms into its respective spectral components and project each interferogram in parallel; and a photodetector providing photon quantification.
US09155460B2 Activity regulation based on biometric data
Disclosed are devices, systems, apparatus, methods, products, and other implementations, including a method that includes obtaining biometric data of a user, and generating instruction data, presentable on a user interface, based on data relating to one or more activities to be completed by the user and based on the biometric data of the user. In some embodiments, obtaining the biometric data may include measuring one or more of, for example, heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen level, temperature, speech-related attributes, breath, and/or eye behavior.
US09155455B2 Endoscope gas delivery system
Gases are smoothly and automatically switched when using two gas supply sources, that is, an air pump and a carbon dioxide gas cylinder. By using a gas supply flow rate adjusting unit, a carbon dioxide gas is supplied to an endoscope, and a gas using a carbon dioxide gas and water are delivered. When the remaining amount of the carbon dioxide gas of the cylinder is detected and the detected pressure of the carbon dioxide gas becomes less than a predetermined value, the air pump is rotated to supply pressurized air. The rotation number of the air pump is controlled, and the same amount of pressurized air is supplied as that of the supplied carbon dioxide gas. The switching to the pressurized air is automatically performed. The supply amounts before and after the switching become equal to each other, and a surgical operator does not feel any discomfort.
US09155454B2 Hysteroscopic system
A hysteroscopy system includes a scope having an internal channel, a sheath removably coupled to the scope, and an outflow channel. The sheath has a distal flange extending internally towards an outer surface of the scope. The outflow channel is formed between an inner surface of the sheath and an outer surface of the scope. The distal flange forms a distal end of the outflow channel and is generally located between the scope and the sheath.
US09155429B2 Compact dry toilet installation
The invention relates to a toilet installing having: a toilet seat (2) in the form of a hollow body in which there is formed an opening (3) for evacuating liquid effluent (4) and solid waste under gravity, a conveyor belt (15) mounted in an inclined manner delimiting between a bottom part and a top part a surface (14) for receiving the liquid effluent and solid waste, in order to separate the liquid effluent and solid waste under gravity, a part of the conveyor belt, starting from the bottom part thereof, being mounted inside the toilet seat, the other part protruding from the rear face of the seat, a device (25) for recovering the liquid effluent (4) having a reception tank mounted inside the toilet seat.
US09155428B2 Toiletries dispensing device and method for replacing a plurality of dispensing bottles
The present invention is a toiletries dispensing device with a back plate that supports a non-evasive means for mounting the toiletries dispensing device on a wall or other vertical mounting surface, a plurality of dispensing bottles with a pump disposed on top of each dispensing bottle to dispense toiletries as desired by a user, a flange assembly with a top surface and a removable section with a plurality of attachment tabs, a stationary section with a plurality of receiving slots and a plurality of pump apertures that hold and secure the dispensing bottles. There is also a mountable lock to lock the dispensing bottles in place and a bottom support surface with a smooth surfacing that the dispensing bottles are set on. There is also a method for replacing the dispensing bottles as well.
US09155426B2 Removable gripping device for a cooking vessel and cooking vessel provided with such a device
A removable gripping device (1) for a cooking vessel (40), the device including a fixed member, a mobile member, a displacement mechanism capable of being controlled manually, the fixed member comprising a front wall designed to bear at least partially against the external face of the peripheral wall of a cooking vessel, the mobile member, being designed to bear against the internal face of the peripheral wall of the vessel in its closed position. The mobile member has two arms (11, 12), each of the two arms (11, 12) being provided with an end part (15a, 15b) extending substantially parallel to the front wall (16) of the fixed member (2, 3). The displacement mechanism (7, 10) causing the lateral displacement of the end parts (15a, 115b) of the arms (11, 12).
US09155420B2 Beverage brewing apparatus and method
The present invention has as an objective to provide an apparatus for brewing a beverage that provides an attractive brewing experience for the consumer, which can perform an effective and efficient brewing process, and which also can be easily rinsed to remove any spent infusible material. These objectives have been met by a beverage brewing machine having an at least one water inlet port that is arranged at an angle of less than 4 degrees relative to the wall of the brew chamber to direct water around the wall of the brew chamber. The apparatus also provides for improved agitation of infusible material. Moreover a method is provided to brew a beverage using the brewing machine of the invention.
US09155419B2 Dispenser assembly for a refrigerator appliance
A dispenser assembly for a refrigerator appliance is provided. The dispenser assembly includes a dispenser body that defines a dispenser recess. A heated liquid water outlet is configured for directing a flow of heated liquid water towards a container within the dispenser recess. The dispenser assembly also includes a cooling mechanism configured for selectively directing a flow of gaseous fluid towards the container within the dispenser recess.
US09155417B2 Liquid concentrate/extract beverage dispenser with replaceable concentrate/extract cartridge
A concentrate/extract cartridge for dispensing a liquid concentrate/extract is provided. The cartridge includes a hollow body and a dispensing tube that contains a pumping device. The cartridge includes a valve having a valve stem that passes through a port of a valve seat connected to the dispensing tube. A piston is located at a first end of the valve stem and a valve body is located at a second end of the valve stem in removable contact with the valve seat for alternately opening and closing the port. A liquid dispenser suitable for numerous applications and having a removably insertable concentrate/extract cartridge and a method of dispensing a liquid are also provided.
US09155414B2 Crown-type sizer for a hanger
A crown-type sizer for mounting on a hanger includes a body and a hook extending from a mid-point of the body. The sizer includes a pair of parallel walls and a pair of non-parallel walls, each wall of the non-parallel walls being joined to each wall of the parallel walls, the pairs of walls defining a lower open base and an open base in an upper part of the sizer for passing over the hook. Each of the parallel walls has a single boss disposed in a corner of the respective parallel wall and each non-parallel wall is shorter in height than at least one parallel wall.
US09155409B2 Support pillow
A pillow including a pillow body having a medial region and a pair of legs that extend from the medial region to define an opening there between, an interior core disposed within the pillow body, a cover and disposed around the interior core, and a plurality of pockets to removably store travel items. Each of the pockets is coupled with the cover of the pillow body. Each of the pockets extend inward into the interior core of the pillow body.
US09155408B2 Pillow protector
A pillow cover is provided that includes a first panel and a second panel perimetrically joined with the first panel such that inner surfaces of the first and second panels define a cavity having a void volume. The first and second panels are each made from a first material. An opening extends through the inner surface of the first panel and an outer surface of the first panel. The pillow cover includes a patch covering the opening. The patch is made from a second material that is different than the first material.
US09155404B2 Infant support insert assembly
A support insert assembly including a first member having first and second curved side surfaces parallel to a first direction, first and second planar partial ring-shaped surfaces connecting the first and second curved side surfaces, and first and second end surfaces connected to the first and second curved side surfaces and the first and second planar partial ring-shaped surfaces; and a second member having a third curved side surface, a straight side surface parallel to the direction, and first and second hemispherically-shaped planar surfaces connected to the third curved side surface and the straight side surface and parallel to one another, where the first and second members are arranged in an opening tar a seating arrangement for the infant to form a space enclosed by the straight side surface and the first curved side surface, and the space is arranged to receive and support the infant.
US09155389B2 System for controlling seat effect for facility of showing pictures
Provided is a system for controlling a seat effect for a facility of showing pictures, and particularly, a user on a rear line may easily and safely control an effect provided to the user himself/herself even while a seat is in motion operation at the time of showing pictures by controlling an effect synchronized with pictures by relaying control information inputted from the user on the rear-line seat by using an effect controlling device of a front-line seat, in the facility of showing pictures, which provides the effect (for example, a water shot, an air shot, or a scent) synchronized with the pictures to the user on the rear-line seat.
US09155369B2 Frame structure for a luggage item
A luggage item may include a first and second outer portions defining an inner compartment of the luggage item and a closing mechanism. At least one of the first outer portion or the second outer portion may include a frame structure and a relatively flexible cover member. The closing mechanism may be configured to operably engage a peripheral edge of each of the outer portions and configured to selectively open and close the luggage item. The frame structure may include a first frame member. The first frame member may form at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the at least one of the first outer portion or the second outer portion. The first frame member may define a width dimension extending in a direction away from the peripheral edge. The relatively flexible cover member and the closing mechanism may be joined to the first frame member by a common sewn attachment.
US09155354B2 Insole topper pad for wearing shoes sockless
The present invention is an insole topper pad adapted to provide an absorbent perspiration barrier between the bottom surface of the bare human foot and the top surface of a shoe's insole or footbed. The insole topper pad enables a user to easily transition from going barefoot to wearing shoes in a sockless manner, while further retaining a relatively hygienic environment within the shoe. The insole topper pad may be easily inserted in, or removed from, articles of footwear, and conveniently laundered on a daily basis. Further, the worry of unhealthy and embarrassing odors produced from prolonged bacteria build-up within a shoe may be substantially reduced. While eliminating the need for traditional socks, the insole topper pad allows the user to comfortably and sanitarily adapt to fashion and lifestyle trends which have significantly shifted, exposing the bare lower leg and ankle portion of the foot while wearing low rise shoes.
US09155345B2 Removal system for sewn-in hair extensions, hair weaves, hair augmentation, and wigs
A removal system for sewn-in hair extensions, hair weaves, hair augmentation, and wigs is disclosed. This invention solves issues with respect to facile removal and scalp irritation caused by such extensions through the use of methods using dissolvable thread and dissolving agent, with optional added antipruritic and anti-itch properties or by adding a separate antipruritic agent. The dissolvable thread may be used to either secure hair extension wefts to a wearer's hair or in conjunction with a hair weft constructed of the same dissolvable material comprising the thread.
US09155342B2 Resilient pad composite having bound reinforcing structure
The present application discloses a composite pad structure that includes a substrate bonded to a plurality of discrete, spaced-apart, resilient elements engaged to at least one reinforcing structure.
US09155340B2 Rider and passenger stability belt
A stability belt is fabricated of a spring-loaded safety belt buckle and a sufficiently long strap to reach around an operator and a passenger of an open vehicle or a domesticated animal. The stability belt may have a belt buckle that has a top quick belt release portion that comprises an aperture for receiving a tether. The tether is adapted to be tied to the buckle and the buckle released by pulling on the tether in the event of an emergency. The stability belt may have a padded portion at the rear and sides serving as a cushion for the passenger in the event of a quick stop. The stability belt may permit passengers to ride that otherwise would not be able to ride such as a small child or a handicapped person.
US09155334B2 Modification of bacterial profile of tobacco
A method of modifying the content of certain bacteria in uncured tobacco material is provided, the method including contacting an uncured tobacco material with a treatment solution, wherein the treatment solution is selected from the group consisting of: (i) a solution comprising salt, sugar, or a combination thereof; (ii) a solution comprising one or more enzymes; and (iii) a solution comprising one or more probiotics, wherein said contacting provides a treated tobacco material having a reduced total bacterial content following harvest. In certain embodiments, the treated tobacco material is subsequently cured, and can optionally be fermented. Smoking articles and smokeless tobacco products including such treated tobacco materials are also provided.
US09155315B2 Method and an apparatus for suspending birds from an overhead conveyor
A method for suspending birds from an overhead conveyor, comprises the following sequence of steps: A) each bird is arranged in a holder with its legs and/or feet projecting from a first opening therein and its neck at a neck end, B) orientation of the feet is determined, C) the bird is rotated about an axis of rotation extending between the first opening and the neck end until a predetermined orientation of the legs and/or feet is reached, and D) the feet or legs of the bird are arranged in a shackle on the conveyor. The rotation may be achieved either by rotation the holder or by rotating the bird in the holder. In an apparatus according to the invention a monitoring station and a rotation station is provided for performing steps B) and C). The holders are preferably open-ended with a second opening at the neck end.
US09155314B2 Flexible, self-supporting, anti-adhesive, and cellular membrane defining a mould or cavity plate for preparing food products
A flexible, self-supporting, anti-adhesive, and cellular membrane defining a mold or a cavity plate for preparing food products, particularly bakery, viennoiserie, pastry, and biscuit products, and in particular for molding, fermenting, and baking bread dough, and which includes a composite structure including a silicone rubber mold (10) consisting of at least one elastomer or at least one silicon resin, and reinforced by a textile-structure framework (11) made of a mixture of inorganic and organic threads (12, 13) and/or fibers. The membrane is characterized in that the inorganic and organic threads (12, 13) and/or fibers represent more than 50 wt % of the textile structure of the framework (11).
US09155313B2 Water dispersible compositions and methods of using the water dispersible compositions
Described herein are compositions comprising a nematicide intermixed with lecithin and a co-surfactant that form stable dispersions in water. Also disclosed are methods of controlling nematodes in soil by application of such compositions.
US09155311B2 Antimicrobial chemical compositions
Antimicrobial chemical compositions comprise an aluminum phosphate (AlP) solid dispersed within a binding polymer, wherein one or more bioactive materials are disposed within AlP forming a bioactive-AlP complex. The complex may comprise the bioactive material chemically bonded with the AlP, physically combined with the AlP, or a combination of both. The complex may be formed according to precipitation, condensation and sol-gel methods of forming. The complex is engineered to provide a controlled delivery of the bioactive material or a constituent thereof upon exposure to moisture to give a desired level of antimicrobial resistance to a film or composite formed from the composition of at least about 30 μg/m2, and may also provide a desired degree of corrosion resistance through the release of passivating phosphate anion. Such antimicrobial chemical compositions provide an improved degree of active, long-term resistance to a broad range of micro-organisms when compared to known antimicrobial chemical compositions.
US09155308B2 Agricultural pesticide formulation
The present invention provides a stable aqueous pesticide bifenthrin formulation having reduced toxicity and liquid fertilizer compatibility.
US09155299B2 Bonded fiber matrix containing encapsulation complex
Provided are a device comprising (a) a three-dimensional structure comprising a plurality of fibers, and (b) powder particles contained in and/or affixed to said structure, wherein said powder particles comprise one or more volatile compound in an encapsulation complex with a molecular encapsulation agent, a method for releasing a volatile compound from a molecular encapsulation complex using such a device, and an apparatus or system for performing such a method.
US09155295B2 Modular agricultural boom structure
A boom arm extending from a chassis of an agricultural sprayer includes a plurality of chords extending outward from the sprayer and a plurality of cross-sectional frame members connecting the chords to provide structural integrity. The cross-sectional frame members include brace-receiving portions having slots formed. The boom arm has a plurality of tee-shaped brace members, each having a top flange with a stem extending therefrom. The stem is received in a slot in the brace-receiving portion of adjacent cross-section frame members. Sides of the stem and the underside of the top flange are adhesively bonded to facing surfaces of the brace-receiving portions. Each cross-sectional frame member is configured to receive an extension member that extends between the cross-sectional member and a connector mounted on the first chord. The length of the extension member is determined by the position of the cross-sectional frame member on the tapered boom arm.
US09155293B2 Resonating trap for catching insects
An insect control device for attracting and capturing insects includes a base; and a resonator column that is in the form of a hollow tube having an open first end and an open second end. The first end is coupled to the base such that the resonator column stands upright therefrom. The second end is substantially open when the resonator column is coupled to the base. The resonator column is constructed and sized and shaped to resonate as a result of natural movements of insects captured on the resonator column resulting in sounds emanating from the captured insects being amplified by the resonator column which in turn serves to attract additional insects to the resonator column. The resonator column is free of electronic components and sound that is generated for attracting insects is generated without electronic components and is a natural sound amplified by the resonator column.
US09155290B2 Humanized IL-15 animals
Genetically modified non-human animals comprising a humanized interleukin-15 (IL-15) gene. Cells, embryos, and non-human animals comprising a human IL-15 gene. Rodents that express humanized or human IL-15 protein.
US09155287B2 Retractable pet leash with bag container and removable flashlight
A retractable pet leash includes a leash housing, a gear element located within the leash housing, a channel extending along a length of the leash housing, a bag container integrated into either a first side panel or a second side panel of the leash housing, and a pull trigger in communication with the gear element. The leash housing includes the first side panel secured to the second side panel, a back portion including a handle, and a front portion including an opening through which a string portion of the leash extends and retracts. The gear element is configured for extending and retracting the string portion of the leash. The channel is configured for receiving a removable coupling member of a flashlight. The pull trigger is alterable between a retracted position and a pulled position. In the retracted position, the gear element is locked. In the pulled position, the gear element is unlocked.
US09155277B2 Soybean variety 01045636
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01045636. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01045636. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01045636 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01045636 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09155275B2 Wheat cultivar WB7390
The invention relates to the wheat cultivar designated WB7390. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the wheat cultivar WB7390. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the wheat cultivar WB7390 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing wheat plants by crossing the wheat cultivar WB7390 with itself or another wheat cultivar and plants produced by such methods.
US09155274B2 Wheat cultivar WB7618
The invention relates to the wheat cultivar designated WB7618. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the wheat cultivar WB7618. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the wheat cultivar WB7618 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing wheat plants by crossing the wheat cultivar WB7618 with itself or another wheat cultivar and plants produced by such methods.
US09155273B2 Soybean variety A1037448
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1037448. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1037448. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1037448 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1037448 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09155272B2 Soybean variety A1037423
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1037423. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1037423. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1037423 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1037423 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09155266B2 Soybean variety 01046882
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01046882. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01046882. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01046882 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01046882 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09155263B2 Soybean cultivar YB46M13
A soybean cultivar designated YB46M13 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar YB46M13, to the plants of soybean cultivar YB46M13, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar YB46M13, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar YB46M13. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar YB46M13. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar YB46M13, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar YB46M13 with another soybean cultivar.
US09155262B2 Maize variety hybrid X05B916
A novel maize variety designated X05B916 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X05B916 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X05B916 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X05B916, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X05B916. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X05B916.
US09155261B2 Soybean cultivar S110122
A soybean cultivar designated S110122 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S110122, to the plants of soybean cultivar S110122, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S110122, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S110122. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110122. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S110122, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S110122 with another soybean cultivar.
US09155260B2 Soybean cultivar 11263801
A soybean cultivar designated 11263801 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 11263801, to the plants of soybean cultivar 11263801, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 11263801, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 11263801. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 11263801. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 11263801, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 11263801 with another soybean cultivar.
US09155246B2 Riding type mower
A riding mower includes a mower body frame extending in front-and-rear directions between a pair of left and right rear wheels, a horizontal installation surface defined in an area near the rear wheels, an engine arranged on the installation surface, rearward of axle(s) of the rear wheels, an operator's seat arranged forward of the engine, and a fuel tank. The fuel tank includes a front tank portion extending in the front-and-rear directions below the operator's seat, and a rear tank portion connected with the front tank portion, extending in mower body front-and-rear directions on one side of the engine in mower body transverse directions, and extending higher than the front tank portion.
US09155245B2 Work vehicle
There is provided a work vehicle including: an engine in which a pulley for transmitting power is fitted to an output shaft disposed in such a manner as to project downward from a bottom; and a mount surface at which an opening, into which the pulley can be inserted, is formed, and further, on which the engine is mounted in the state in which the pulley is inserted into the opening from above. The work vehicle is further provided with a fixed plate that is fixed to the bottom of the engine and joined to the mount surface so as to fix the engine onto the mount surface. The output shaft is inserted through the fixed plate, and further, the fixed plate is interposed between the bottom of the engine and the pulley.
US09155237B2 Soil tilling and planting implement
A mount for a trash whipping implement for connection to a planter is disclosed. A height and force adjustable mounting system is also disclosed for use with a planter that enables the force of such an implement on the soil to be modulated as desired.
US09161484B2 Selectively controllable electromagnetic shielding
A selectively controllable electromagnetic shield having an electromagnetic shielding material and a mechanism for selectively generating an aperture in the shield. The mechanism for selectively generating an aperture may be a magnetic field source that generates a magnetic field of sufficient strength to substantially saturate all or a portion of the shielding material. For example, a permanent magnet or DC electromagnet may be used to selectively saturate the shield. In its un-saturated state, the magnetic shield has a high permeability and functions as a flux path for the magnetic field. Once saturated, the permeability of the shield is substantially reduced so that the magnetic field lines are no longer drawn into the shield to the same degree. As a result, once saturated, a substantially greater amount of the electromagnetic field may flow through or around the shield in the saturated region.
US09161483B2 Electronic module and method of manufacturing electronic module
An electronic module includes a mold body in which an electronic component mounted on a circuit substrate is sealed by a mold resin; and a shield film formed to cover upper and side surfaces of the mold body, the shield film being a metal evaporated film formed by physical vapor deposition.
US09161477B2 Hydraulic distributor
A hydraulic distributor capable of distributing a liquid coolant to a plurality of cooling devices, includes a liquid coolant inlet conduit into the hydraulic distributor; a plurality of supply conduits for the cooling devices by the liquid coolant, each of the supply conduits being hydraulically connected to the inlet conduit through a supply duct; a liquid coolant outlet conduit from the distributor; a plurality of liquid coolant return conduits in the distributor, each of the return conduits being hydraulically connected to the outlet conduit by a return duct; wherein at least one of the liquid coolant supply or return conduits can be fitted with a floating connector allowing for a hydraulic connection with at least one of the cooling devices among the plurality of cooling devices.
US09161476B2 Locking mechanism for adaptor assembly of a server rack chassis
A locking mechanism includes a latch, a handle, a first link, and a second link. The latch to engage with a recess of a server rack chassis, and to lock an adaptor assembly within the server rack chassis. The handle is connected to the latch, and engages and disengages the latch with the recess. The first link includes a first stub. The first link puts the first stub in an up position in response to the handle being in a down position, and puts the first stab in a down position in response to the handle being in an up position. The second link includes a second stub. The second link puts the second stub in a down position in response to the handle being in the down position, and puts the second stub in an up position in response to the handle being in the up position.
US09161473B2 Surface mount electronic component
A surface mount electronic component that includes a resin case, metal terminals, and a sealing metal plate that are molded integrally by insert molding. A hollow casing part and a through hole are formed in the case. The through hole leads from the hollow casing part to a surface of the case. The metal plate seals the through hole. The metal plate has a coefficient of linear expansion that is different from a coefficient of linear expansion of the case so that deformation to unseal the through hole occurs when heated.
US09161472B2 Latch mechanism for portable electronic device
A latching assembly comprises a bracket, and a hook. The hook comprises: a top; a base having a first portion proximate to a first end and a second portion proximate to a second end. The second portion is inclined or sloped towards the top. A front surface extends from the first end to the second end. The front surface is substantially parallel to the surface of the second part at the first end, forming a first portion of the base for engaging the bracket. The front surface is further inclined or sloped toward the surface of the second part at the second end. When the bracket and the hook are engaged and the first part and the second part are separated by force, the bracket slides on the second portion of the base and the inclined or sloped front surface at the second end, thereby disengaging the bracket from the hook.
US09161468B2 Electric box for vehicle
Disclosed herein is an electric box for a vehicle including a box body and a cover wherein the box includes a storage space and cover is coupled to the box body to seal the storage space. The box body further includes a wire insertion passageway through which the wire is upwardly inserted into the box body.
US09161463B2 Electronic component
Disclosed is an electronic component which maintains good connection between a circuit board and connection terminals and provides size reduction. The electronic component includes a circuit board, a pair of connection terminals, and a housing with the pair of connection terminals mounted thereon. The circuit board is provided with a plurality of terminal sections connected to the connection terminals. Each connection terminal is provided with a spring member formed to be elastically deformable and which sandwich the terminal sections between them. A rib is provided in the housing, wherein the rib is provided between through-holes through which each of the pair of connection terminals pass, and whereby the rib is formed in convex shape, towards the circuit board and away from a bottom section of a substrate housing section in which the circuit board is housed, and the rib penetrates a plurality of terminal sections.
US09161456B1 Making imprinted micro-wire rib structure
A method of making a micro-wire rib structure includes providing a substrate and locating a curable layer on or over the substrate. The curable layer is imprinted and cured to form a cured layer including a cured-layer surface and a micro-channel having a micro-channel depth, a micro-channel bottom, first and second micro-channel sides, and one or more ribs having opposing rib sides and a rib top defining a rib height less than the micro-channel depth. Each rib is located between the first and second micro-channel sides and extends from the micro-channel bottom toward the cured-layer surface. A curable conductive material is located in the micro-channel and cured to provide a cured electrical conductor forming a micro-wire in the micro-channel. The micro-wire extends continuously from the first micro-channel side, over the micro-channel bottom, the rib side(s) and rib top(s), to the second micro-channel side forming a continuous electrical conductor from the first micro-channel side to the second micro-channel side.
US09161446B2 Micro electronic component structure
A micro electronic component structure includes an insulating body, at least one conductive through hole, at least one conductive material, and at least one micro terminal. The insulating body has a top surface and a bottom surface. The conductive through hole penetrates the top surface and the bottom surface. The conductive material is formed in the conductive through hole. The micro terminal is disposed above the conductive material.
US09161434B2 Methods for shielding electronic components from moisture
Methods for applying a hydrophobic coating to various components within a computing device are disclosed. More specifically, a hydrophobic coating can be applied by a plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition (PACVD) process to a fully assembled circuit board. Frequently, a fully assembled circuit board can have various components such as electromagnetic interference (EMI) shields which cover water sensitive electronics. A method is disclosed for perforating portions of the EMI shields that overlay the water sensitive electronics. Methods of sealing board to board connectors are also disclosed. In one embodiment solder leads of the board to board connectors can be covered by a silicone seal.
US09161428B2 Independent control of RF phases of separate coils of an inductively coupled plasma reactor
Plasma distribution is controlled in a plasma reactor by controlling the phase differences between different RF coil antennas, in accordance with a desired or user-selected phase difference, by a phase-lock feedback control loop.
US09161417B2 Configuration unit and method for configuring a presence detection sensor
A configuration unit (1) and a method for configuring a sensor (2) comprising a transmitter (4) and a plurality of receivers (6) are provided. The configuration unit is operatively connected to the transmitter and the plurality of receivers, and is adapted to estimate the location of a static element (8) based on a probing signal (5) transmitted by the transmitter and based on a return signal (7) received by the plurality of receivers. The return signal is generated by reflection of the probing signal against the static element. Moreover, the configuration unit is adapted to configure the sensor, for presence detection of a target (9), based on the estimated location of the static element.
US09161410B1 Light emitting diode driving apparatus with variable output current and method for the same
A pulse width modulation control unit multiplies a value of a user side setting signal by a value of a dimming signal to obtain a pulse width modulation output current control signal. The pulse width modulation control unit sends the pulse width modulation output current control signal to a light emitting diode driving unit. The light emitting diode driving unit multiplies a value of the pulse width modulation output current control signal by a value of a maximum output current of the light emitting diode driving unit to obtain a light emitting diode pulse width modulation driving current. The light emitting diode driving unit drives a light emitting diode by the light emitting diode pulse width modulation driving current.
US09161402B2 High performance adaptive switched LED driver
An LED driver controls current through an LED string. The LED driver generates a boosted PWM signal to drive a PWM transistor in the LED current path such that the PWM transistor maintains a substantially constant VGS, thus minimizing turn-on impedance of the PWM transistor. A current mirror circuit controls peak LED current when the PWM transistor is on. A trimming circuit includes a set of programmable switches to couple or decouple trimming transistor from the LED current path, and allowing for fine calibration of the LED current. By maintaining a low resistance and compensating for current mismatch in the LED current path, the LED driver provides efficient power performance and robustness that is particularly beneficial in high current applications.
US09161399B2 Programmable current source for light emitting diode arrangements
An adjustable power supply (1) for light emitting diode arrangements (11), with the power supply (1) being dimensioned for a power class. The power supply (1) has an adjustable current source (3) and an adjustable power limitation (4), and the power limitation (4) is adjustable within the limits of the power class. The power supply (1) further has a control component (5) that is suitable for running an operating program (8). This operating program (8) uses, as its input parameters (7), the number of light emitting diodes (13) to be controlled and their method of connection and, from these parameters, it calculates the required current and the required power, according to which the current source (3) and the power limitation (4) are adjusted and regulated.
US09161388B2 Radio base station and methods thereof
The present invention relates to a radio base station (RBS) (1). The RBS comprises a first radio unit (RU) (2) and a second RU (3). The RBS is configured such that said first and second RUs will use the same scrambling or cell identity code for communication with a wireless communication terminal (9) such that the wireless communication terminal will regard the first and second RUs as relating to the same cell of the RBS. The invention also relates to a communication system (13) comprising the RBS, as well as to a use of the RBS for performing an internal handover, after UL measurements, of the communication terminal from the first RU to the second RU, and a method of arranging the RBS.
US09161380B2 Silent redial during mobile-originated call
Aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques to speed up and improve silent redial success rates in wireless communications. A user equipment (UE) may determine how to attempt retrying a mobile originated (MO) call and procedures for selecting a subsequent system for attempting the call based, at least in part, on a restriction status of the call and a detected failure.
US09161368B2 Communication terminal and method with prioritized control information
A communication terminal adjusts the transmission timing of data transmitted to a base station so that the base station can receive the data within a predetermined delay time. The communication terminal includes a reception section 701 for receiving priority of MAC control information transmitted from the base station, a priority control section 703 for defining the relationship between the priority of the MAC control information and priority assigned to DRB and SRB, and a transmission message generation section 704 for controlling so as to transmit information having a high priority early in accordance with the relationship between the priorities defined by the priority control section 703. According to the communication terminal, a comparison is made between the priority of the MAC control information and the priority assigned to the DRB and the SRB, whereby it is made possible to control what information is to be transmitted as desired.
US09161365B2 System and method for using resources in a communication system
In a method for using resources in a communication system, a communication region is divided into inter-sector boundary regions, sector central regions, and a sector common region, and predetermined resources are allocated to the divided regions.
US09161362B1 Group management in multiuser communications
An access point device selects a group of two or more transceivers from a plurality of transceivers for simultaneous transmission of respective data to the access point device. The group of transceivers is selected so that respective power levels of signals received, at the access point device, from any two transceivers in the group of transceivers differ by no more than a predetermined amount. An indication of assignment to the group of transceivers is transmitted to each transceiver in the group of transceivers. The access point device receives the respective data from each transceiver in the group of transceivers simultaneously via a shared wireless communication channel.
US09161358B2 Method and apparatus for synchronizing timing of a first station to timing of a second station for transmission of data in sequential slots of a time division multiple access channel
A first station including a transceiver, a control module, first counters, and a generation module. The transceiver receives information from a second station. The control module generates an adjustment signal based on the information to synchronize the first station to the second station. The first counters, based on the adjustment signal, generate respective count values. The first counters comprise a first counter and second counters. The count value of the first counter is indicative of an amount of time within a first slot of a time division multiple access (TDMA) channel. Each of the count values of the second counters is based on one of the other count values of the first counters. The generation module, in response to the count values of the first counters, generates a control signal. The transceiver, based on the control signal, transmits data in a second time slot on the TDMA channel.
US09161355B2 Method for signaling of resource allocation to adjust granularity in cellular multi-carrier system
A method for transmitting a downlink signal in a wireless mobile communication system. The method according to one embodiment includes generating a resource indication value (RIV) indicating a start index (S) of consecutive virtual resource blocks (VRBs) and a length (L) of the consecutive VRBs; transmitting downlink control information including resource block allocation information. The downlink control information is common information for plural users, and the resource block allocation information includes the RIV. The method according to the embodiment further includes transmitting the downlink signal on the consecutive VRBs. If Y−1≦└X/2┘, then the RIV is defined by RIV=X(Y−1)+Z, else the RIV is defined by RIV=X(X−Y+1)+(X−1−Z), where X=└NVRB/G┘, Y=L/G, and Z=S/G, in which, L is the length of the consecutive VRBs, S is the start index of the consecutive VRBs, NVRB is the number of VRBs, L is a multiple of G, S is a multiple of G, and G is an integer of 2 or higher.
US09161350B2 Uplink transmission timing
Embodiments herein relates to a method in a radio base station (12) for handling a timing of uplink transmission from a user equipment (10) to the radio base station (12) in a radio communications network. The user equipment (10) is served in a cell (14) controlled by the radio base station (12), and which radio base station (12) and user equipment (10) are comprised in the radio communications network. The communications in the cell (14) are organized in radio frames comprising subframes. The radio base station (12) receives a first uplink transmission from the user equipment (10) in a subframe related to the radio base station (12). The radio base station then estimates a time parameter value based on a distance between the user equipment (10) and the radio base station (12) when the first uplink transmission is transmitted from the user equipment (10). The radio base station (12) then sets a time value (NTA1) in a message, which time value (NTA1) is to be used to set a timing of a second uplink transmission at the user equipment (10). The time value (NTA1) is based on the estimated time parameter value and a time offset value (ΔT). The radio base station (12) then transmits the message comprising the time value (NTA1) to the user equipment.
US09161348B2 Multiplexing control and data information from a user equipment in a physical data channel
Methods and apparatus are described for a User Equipment (UE) to transmit HARQ-ACK information in a Physical Uplink Shared CHannel (PUSCH) in response to a reception of at least one Transport Block (TB) when the UE is configured by a base station with multiple DownLink (DL) Component Carriers (CCs), for selecting a single PUSCH for transmitting of Uplink Control Information (UCI), when the UE has multiple PUSCH transmissions, for improving the reliability of the HARQ-ACK reception when it is encoded using a block code relative to when it is encoded using the repetition code, and for applying transmission diversity to the HARQ-ACK transmission in a PUSCH.
US09161336B2 Method and apparatus for multi-carrier allocation
In order to improve efficiency for sub-carrier allocation in a TDM multi-carrier system, the invention provides a novel frame structure and corresponding method and apparatus. During a centralized short period, each terminal sends a probe message including a predefined sequence to a network device and the network device estimates the channel characteristics for each sub-carrier with respect to each terminal by estimating the received probe message. In this way, sub-carrier allocation can be improved and sub-carriers with good channel characteristics are allocated to appropriate terminals.
US09161328B2 Automatic and wireless sharing of location information between a location-aware device and a location-unaware device
Disclosed system and method enable a location-unaware device to know its approximate location by wirelessly near-field coupling it to a geo-proximate location-aware device such as a Global Navigation Satellite System—(GNSS)-enabled mobile phone. The geo-location data are conveyed in accordance with a predefined signaling protocol. Request and response mechanisms within the devices take the form of predefined data packets that convey geo-location and the devices' unique identification (ID) information.
US09161326B2 Authentication using DHCP services in mesh networks
A new device is deployed to an area in which a network is provided. The new device may join the network using a single handshake via a neighboring device that is a member of the network and register with a network management system managing the network. If the network is overloaded or has limited bandwidth remaining, the network may refuse to admit the new device, or if the new device is isolated, may force some devices that are members of the network to leave or migrate from the network to allow the isolated device to join the network.
US09161325B1 Subscriber identity module virtualization
A mobile communication device. The device comprises a first wireless communication identity stored in a first partition of the memory, wherein a wireless communication identity comprises a network access identity, a list of wireless communication systems to which the device is authorized to attach, a rule set for prioritizing among the wireless communication systems identified in the list, and a table of device rules. The device further comprises an application stored in the memory that, when executed by the processor, detects a triggering event and in response to the triggering event changes the active wireless communication identity of the mobile communication device to one of the wireless communication identities stored in the partitions of the memory and applies device rules associated with the wireless communication identity, where the mobile communication device conducts wireless communication via the radio transceiver based on the active communication identity and the associated device rules.
US09161322B2 Configuring base station and wireless device carrier groups
A base station transmits control message(s) to a wireless device configuring secondary cell(s). Each of the secondary cells is assigned to a cell group in a plurality of cell groups comprising a primary cell group and at least one secondary cell group. The control message(s) comprise dedicated parameters. If dedicated parameters comprise a cell group index for the secondary cell, the wireless device assigns the secondary cell to one of the at least one secondary cell group identified by the cell group index. Otherwise, the wireless device assigns the secondary cell to the primary cell group.
US09161318B2 Configuring power distribution within cooperation areas of cellular communication networks
There is provided a method for configuring a power distribution within a cellular network system. The cellular network system includes at least one cooperation area. The at least one cooperation area is defined by at least two base stations, each including at least one antenna, wherein each base station has at least one beam. The method includes configuring the base stations to transmit at a first transmit power level for providing a first receiving power level for a user equipment at a center region of the cooperation area, and configuring the base stations to transmit at a second transmit power level for providing a second receiving power level at a border region of the cooperation area, wherein the second receiving power level is lower than the first receiving power level.
US09161315B2 Wireless transmission power control method and system
A wireless communication system includes a primary station which has a transmitter for transmitting wireless signals on a downlink, and a plurality of secondary stations each having a receiver for receiving signals on the downlink and a transmitter for transmitting on an uplink. In a normal, loaded condition a synchronization channel and a data channel are present on the downlink and closed power control is achieved by measuring the signal to interference ratio (SIR) in a received downlink transmission, comparing the measured SIR with a target SIR and sending a power adjust indication on the uplink to cause the primary station to adjust its transmitted power on the downlink. The secondary station monitors the downlink and, in response to detecting an unloaded cell condition, determines a target SIR offset which it applies to the target SIR to overcome interference from the presence of the synchronization channel on the downlink.
US09161314B2 Apparatus and method for controlling the temperature of a mobile device
A method implemented on a mobile device that starts by receiving a temperature reading from a sensor included on the mobile device. The temperature reading is compared to a threshold temperature and a power cap is set when the temperature reading is greater than the threshold temperature. The power cap is a maximum transmission power of the mobile device. The method then determines if the mobile device is transmitting a critical message. The power cap is released for a period of time if the power cap is set and the mobile device is determined to be sending a critical message. Other embodiments are also described.
US09161311B2 Method for managing the charge level of a battery in a mobile terminal, corresponding management system and computer program
The present disclosure relates to a method for managing the charge level of a battery of a mobile terminal connected to a network of transmission of information. The method comprises measuring the charge level of the battery. If the charge level of the battery is lower than a predefined threshold of charge level, the method controls the operation of the terminal to reduce its power consumption during an operation of transmission of information from or toward the terminal.
US09161309B2 Optimizing keepalive and other background traffic in a wireless network
Systems and methods of optimizing background traffic originating at a mobile device are provided. The systems and methods include identifying a background request to be delayed for transmission to a wireless network, delaying the background request for a period of time when a state of the mobile device meets a delay criteria, and responsive to detecting a change in the state of the mobile device or expiration of the period of time, transmitting the background request to the wireless network.
US09161307B2 Upper-layer base station, lower-layer base station and wireless communication system
An upper-layer base station forms an upper-layer cell in a wireless communication system in which lower-layer cells are superimposed onto the upper-layer cell. This upper-layer base station includes: an upper-layer wireless section that achieves communication with a wireless terminal that is present within the upper-layer cell; an upper-layer inter-station communication section that achieves communication with lower-layer base stations that form the lower-layer cells; and an upper-layer control section that, via the upper-layer inter-station communication section, commands any one of the lower-layer base stations that satisfies preconditions for making a connection in order to communicate with a wireless terminal that is currently performing communication to switch from a power saving mode to a normal operation mode.
US09161306B2 Method for transitioning between multiple reception levels
There is provided a method for enabling a user equipment (UE) to transition between a non-discontinuous reception (Non-DRX) level and at least one discontinuous reception (DRX) level. The UE in a DRX level wakes up periodically to monitor a scheduling channel. The method includes receiving a DRX indicator in a Non-DRX level with continuously monitoring the scheduling channel and transitioning from the Non-DRX level to a DRX level indicated by the DRX indicator. The UE can transition between multiple DRX levels by an explicit command/signaling.
US09161305B2 Method for power save mode operation in wireless local area network and apparatus for the same
A method for a power save mode operation in a wireless local area network (WLAN) system is provided. The method comprising determining a type of a receiving station (STA) indicator on the basis of the number of STAs which are associated with the AP and which intend to transmit buffered traffic; generating a traffic indicator map (TIM) element including information which indicates the receiving STA indicator and the type of the receiving STA indicator, transmitting the TIM element, receiving a poll frame for requesting data frame transmission from one STA among the STAs and transmitting the data frame to the STA.
US09161304B2 Power management based on discontinuous reception cycles in a mobile communication system
A device in a base station of a mobile communication system for power management can include a storage device to store a group of parameter sets associated with a user equipment (UE) of the mobile communication system. The device can include a processor to calculate a corresponding objective function associated with each entity of the group of parameter sets. The processor can be configured to select an entity of the group of parameter sets based on the corresponding objective function, and the selected entity of the group of parameter sets facilitates the power management for the UE.
US09161301B2 Reducing power consumption when bridging independent chipsets
A wireless communication device architecture is provided. The wireless communication device can include a WLAN chipset, a cellular chipset, and an application processor. The application processor can include a first portion and a second portion. The first portion can include at least one root complex powered via a dedicated power domain, which can be independent of at least one second power domain that can power the second portion. The WLAN chipset can coupled to a first port of the at least one root complex via a first interface. The cellular chipset can be coupled to a second port of the at least one root complex via a second interface. The at least one root complex can use power received via the dedicated power domain to bridge the WLAN chipset and the cellular chipset while the second portion of the application processor is sleeping.
US09161295B2 Method of searching code sequence in mobile communication system
A method for transmitting a signal for cell searching in a mobile communication system having a multi-cell environment includes transmitting the signal to one or more receiving party devices within a cell, wherein the signal is used for a synchronization of the one or more receiving party devices within the cell, the signal is defined by a combination of a first code sequence derived from a first index and a second code sequence derived from a second index, and an identity of the cell is used for defining the combination of the first code sequence and the second code sequence.
US09161266B2 System, server and device for battery resource management via traffic steering
Battery resources in a wireless device are managed in the present specification by traffic steering. A wireless device is configured to request content from an intermediation server, which is configured to analyze the requested content and send an indication to the wireless device as to which bearer path is to be selected based on which bearer path is battery-life optimized.
US09161264B2 Convergent transmission system and apparatus, data offloading and converging method
A convergent transmission system includes a data offloading and converging node, a cellular access point, and a WLAN AP. The data offloading and converging node is configured to: negotiate with a UE to determine a data offloading policy; according to the data offloading policy determined by negotiating with the UE, use a WLAN radio bearer to transmit a part of user data, and the cellular access point is configured to work with the UE and the data offloading and converging node to transmit the remaining part of the user data.
US09161261B2 Communication speed control system
A communication speed control system to be placed between service providing servers on the Internet and smartphones, the communication speed control system including: a traffic storing unit a non-regulated IP address storing unit for registering IP addresses of the servers a packet reading unit for extracting an IP address of the server from the packet; a traffic management unit for calculating cumulative data traffic of the IP address in question a handling rule management unit for determining that a band limitation is required when the cumulative data traffic exceeds a threshold value and the IP address in question is not registered as a non-regulated IP address, and determining that a band limitation is not required when the cumulative data traffic does not exceed the threshold value and a packet transmission unit for transmitting a packet at a normal communication speed.
US09161257B2 Topology aware MANET for mobile networks
Systems and methods provide adaptability in a mobile ad hoc network (MANET), based on an existing protocol, such as adaptive hybrid domain routing (AHDR). The systems and methods are especially suited for fast changing topologies that may change after a reactive route discovery has been completed.
US09161256B2 CQI feedback structure
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a reporting allocation unit, an indicator interpretation unit and methods of operating a reporting allocation unit and an indicator interpretation unit. In one embodiment, the reporting allocation unit includes an indicator configuration module configured to provide reporting interval and offset values of corresponding rank and channel quality indicators for user equipment. The reporting allocation unit also includes a sending module configured to transmit the reporting interval and offset values to the user equipment.
US09161252B2 Method and apparatus for reporting buffer status
A method and an apparatus for reporting buffer status are provided. The method includes: obtaining multiple Transport Blocks (TBs) from a base station within one Transmission Time Interval (TTI); selecting a TB compliant with a condition of transmitting a Buffer Status Report (BSR) among the multiple TBs; and bearing a BSR of a Logical Channel Group (LCG) and a Control Element (CE) sub-header of the BSR onto the selected TB and sending the TB to the base station. In this way, a UE can make full use of the padding bits of the obtained multiple TBs, and report the buffer status flexibly.
US09161250B2 Transmission frequency spectrum scanning
Satellite scanning is an example of scanning a transmission spectrum, which relates to identifying satellite channels within a satellite broadcast spectrum. Rather than scanning the entire transmission spectrum at each possible combination of frequency and symbol rate, spectrum analysis may be performed over the transmission spectrum in order to determine an estimate of signal strength over the transmission spectrum in the frequency domain. The estimate of signal strength in the frequency domain can be used to identify candidate transmission channels (e.g. at frequencies where the signal strength is high). A targeted scan of the transmission spectrum can then be performed based on the identified candidate transmission in order to identify the transmission channels.
US09161248B2 Core services platform for wireless voice, data and messaging network services
A Core Service Platform (CSP) system is integrated with an operator network and IT system to provide services to subscribers and operators. Based on information collected from the operator network and IT system, the CSP system delivers alerts to a subscriber's device and provides offers to resolve the condition causing the alerts. The CSP system provides customized contextual offers to the subscriber's device based on contextual assessments of a subscriber's current context, such as time in contract, loyalty status, data and voice usage, value of customer, time, location and purchase history. The CSP system also provides an operator a suite of tools for the operator to manage its pricing, offers, campaigns and other subscriber-related issues.
US09161245B2 Methods and apparatus to limit reporting of neighbor cell measurements
Methods and apparatus to limit reporting of neighbor cell measurements are disclosed. Example disclosed methods include processing, at a wireless device, configuration information for periodic downlink pilot measurements, wherein the configuration information is associated with a number of neighbor cells for which periodic downlink pilot measurements are permitted to be stored and reported, and wherein the number of neighbor cells includes a first number of neighbor cells for which periodic downlink pilot measurements are permitted to be reported. In some such examples, the configuration information is further associated with a second number of neighbor cells for which periodic downlink pilot measurements are permitted to be reported, and a third number of neighbor cells for which periodic downlink pilot measurements are permitted to be reported. Such example methods can also include storing, at the wireless device, the periodic downlink pilot measurements in accordance with the configuration information.
US09161234B2 Communication control apparatus, communication control method, program, and communication system
There is provided a communication control apparatus including an information acquisition unit that acquires information about channels, among frequency channels assigned to a primary system, available to a secondary system, a generation unit that generates a list of channels, among the channels available, recommended for a secondary usage node operating the secondary system, and a notification unit that notifies the secondary usage node of the list generated by the generation unit to allow the secondary usage node to select a channel for secondary usage.
US09161233B2 Method and apparatus to facilitate support for multi-radio coexistence
Interference between potentially conflicting radio access technologies (RATs) in a wireless device may be managed through a coexistence manager. The coexistence manager allows a first active RAT to yield conflicting resources to a second idle RAT for purposes of receiving signals to allow proper operation by the second RAT. These signals may be, for example, paging signals to a Long Term Evolution (LTE) radio or beacons to a wireless local area network (WLAN) radio.
US09161228B2 Apparatus and method for generating a sequence of encryption keys for communication security in mobile wireless devices
A random wave envelope is created from a set of bounded random numbers by additively combining a triangle, a square and a sine wave. The random wave envelope is then used to create a sequence of wave random numbers from the wave envelope, which are used to generate random-variant keys for encryption in place of the pre-placed encryption key. An ambiguity envelope is thus created over the transmission of data packets as random-variant-keys are used that are distinct and separate for each packet and may also be distinct and separate for each incoming and outgoing packet. The random-variant keys are only created at the time of the actual use for encrypting or decrypting a data packet and not before and then discarded after one time use. The random-variant keys may be used in wireless network using wireless access points, cellular phone and data networks and ad hoc mobile wireless networks.
US09161226B2 Associating services to perimeters
In some implementations, a method includes receiving, from a user of a first device, a request to enable access, through a second device, to a server resource account of an enterprise. The first device includes a first enterprise perimeter including an internal resource and a first enterprise identifier and configured to prevent external resources from accessing the internal resource. A request is wirelessly transmit, to the second device, to the second device for a second enterprise identifier assigned to a second enterprise perimeter included in the second device. Whether to grant access to the internal resource is determined based on a first enterprise identifier assigned to the first device and a second enterprise identifier assigned to the second device.
US09161222B2 Verifying an association between an application and a mobile device through a telecommunication network
A system for verifying an association between an application and a mobile computing device. The system receives a request to verify the application, which has an application instance identifier, on the mobile computing device. The system also obtains a mobile device identifier used to communicate with the mobile computing device. The system initiates one or more telephone call setup messages, which signal a voice call request, to the mobile computing device using the mobile device identifier. Based on receiving an indication that the one or more telephone call setup messages were detected at the mobile computing device, the system associates the application instance identifier with the mobile device identifier.
US09161221B2 Method, apparatus and computer program for operating a user equipment
Embodiments provide a method, apparatus and computer program for operating a user equipment (UE). The method begins by determining that a valid authentication for the UE, generated with a radio network operating with a first radio access technology (RAT), is not a mutual authentication between the UE and the network operating with the first RAT. In response, the UE unilaterally takes action to prevent the valid authentication that is not a mutual authentication from being used to authenticate with a radio network operating with a second RAT that utilizes mutual authentication.
US09161198B2 Systems and devices for emergency tracking and health monitoring
The present disclosure provides for systems, devices, and methods which address needs of seniors, disabled persons, or any other similar users, at a stage in life when they can still live independently while benefiting from monitored care. Embodiments described herein enable a higher level of connectivity without requiring the member to be technologically savvy, and provides a simple mechanism for personalized emergency support. Embodiments utilize at least one personal communication device which may allow for remote interactions with medical and concierge personnel in a monitoring center or other emergency contacts, in order to fulfill requests for everyday needs, ranging from providing directions to a locations, to health alerts based on health and status measurements collected electronically and remotely.
US09161196B2 Apparatus and method for secure private location information transfer
An apparatus includes an emergency services location module, operatively coupled to location hardware. The emergency services location module is operative to receive a session certificate from an emergency services network entity in response to the apparatus placing an emergency services call or sending an emergency services message. The emergency services location module validates the session certificate to validate that the emergency services network entity is authorized to receive location information, and sends location information obtained from the location hardware to the emergency services network entity, in response to validating the session certificate. The emergency services location module may also be operative to override a user privacy setting that prevents location information from being sent from the apparatus, in response to determining that the session certificate is valid. The emergency services location module may also encrypt the location information prior to sending the location information to the emergency services network entity.
US09161192B2 Storage medium storing address-information display program and communication controlling device
A storage medium stores an address-information display program including a set of program instructions executable on an information processing device configured to communicate with a communication counterpart through a communication device having at least one communication function. The information processing device stores address information of the communication counterpart. The set of program instructions includes: an address-information determining process of determining, out of the address information, usable address information that is usable with the at least one communication function of the communication device; and a displaying process of displaying the usable address information on a display of the information processing device in a distinguishable manner.
US09161186B2 Remote messaging for mobile communication device and accessory
Message notifications to an accessory from a mobile communication device are provided according to some embodiments of the invention. When a message such as a text message, email, and/or voicemail is received at a mobile communication device, the mobile communication device can notify an attached accessory that a message has been received. In response, the accessory can request the full message, media associated with the message, an attachment to the message, and/or an audio/video stream of the message for presentation to a user.
US09161173B2 Radio communication system, location registration method, repeater, and radio client device
A radio client device scans a channel allocated to a predetermined repeater, and transmits a request for location registration to the predetermined repeater in a case of detecting a usage condition signal. A repeater, in a case of receiving a request for location registration from a radio client device, conducts location registration for the radio client device, transmits information about the radio client device whose location is registered to a predetermined repeater in a communication area of the repeater or to a predetermined repeater in a different communication area, and in a case of receiving information about a radio client device whose location is registered from another repeater in the communication area of the repeater, transmits information about the radio client device whose location is registered to the predetermined repeater in the different communication area.
US09161171B2 System and method for providing timely therapeutic interventions based on both public and private location-based messaging
A system and method for retrieving both public and private location-based messages. The system and method utilize location-based services and processing to determine when the mobile device has arrived at, is in the vicinity of, is dwelling at, and has left a particular location and then can deliver private messages based upon this information and other user specified criteria. Additionally upon arrival at new location, the mobile device will query a server to determine if there is any category specific public information related to this new location.
US09161166B2 Method and apparatus for interconnected devices
A computer implemented method includes, at an electronic device having an input interface and a display, receiving information relating to a current relative location of at least one other electronic device, displaying on the display a representation of the at least one other electronic device and its relative location, and receiving at the input interface user input associated with the displayed representation of the at least one other electronic device for communicating with the at least one other electronic device. The electronic device has up-to-date knowledge of the relative position of the at least one other device and displays this visually. Information may be sent to the at least one other electronic device in response to receiving the user input associated with the displayed representation of the at least one other electronic device.
US09161164B2 Exchanging identifiers between wireless communication to determine further information to be exchanged or further services to be provided
A server exchanges information between one or more wireless devices to complete a transaction. The server receives second device identifier information from a first wireless device using a wide area network. The second device identifier information was previously provided to the first wireless device using short range wireless communication. The server then uses the second device identifier information to determine additional information concerning an entity or object located in proximity to the second device, and then the server delivers information to the first wireless device based at least in part upon both (a) the second device identifier and (b) a current step in a multiple step process for an ongoing electronic commerce transaction.
US09161161B2 Selective communication mode transitioning techniques for mobile devices
Various methods, apparatuses and/or articles of manufacture are provided which may be implemented as part of a mobile device to selectively transition operation of the mobile device from one communication mode to another communication mode. For example, a mobile device may selectively transition operation from one communication mode to another communication mode based, at least in part, on a determination that certain signaling environment attributes which were previously experienced and identified may once again have been experienced and identified.
US09161160B2 Wireless communication system
A wireless communication system includes a plurality of communication devices, and a communication terminal that is a separate structure from the plurality of communication devices. Each of the communication devices includes a coupling portion to be coupled with the communication terminal, a power source, and a signal processing section arranged to process a signal received and a signal to be sent. The communication terminal includes neither a power source nor a signal processing section, and the communication terminal includes a coupling portion to be coupled with the coupling portion of each of the communication devices, an antenna arranged to send and receive radio waves, and a connector arranged to connect the coupling portion and the antenna to each other.
US09161156B2 Tiles in a mobile application framework
In an example embodiment, a mobile application framework is added to a metadata-driven application. The mobile application framework includes generic libraries having one or more references to one or more configuration files stored on a platform server. Then the one or more configuration files can be updated to include one or more tiles, each tile comprising a user interface element or screen view, each tile being either a primitive tile or a tile embedding other nested tiles within it, thereby updating the metadata-driven mobile application without recompiling it.
US09161155B2 Methods, system and apparatus for sharing and using location information in portable terminal
Methods, apparatus and a system are provided for sharing and using location information in a portable terminal. A setting indicating whether location-information sharing is activated is received for each application of the portable terminal that uses location information. The settings are transmitted to a server. An application for which location-information sharing is activated is executed. A request for sharing of location information with respect to the executed application is transmitted to the server. Location information of a portable terminal in which location-information sharing is activated for the executed application is received from the server. The received location information is processed through the executed application.
US09161153B2 Method of handling CSI report and related communication device
A method of handling channel state information (CSI) reports for a communication device in a wireless communication system comprises determining at least one field difference between a reference CSI report and at least one CSI report; transmitting the reference CSI report to a network of the wireless communication system; and transmitting the at least one field difference to the network, to transmit the at least one CSI report to the network, respectively; wherein the at least one CSI report corresponds to at least one component carrier, respectively, corresponds to at least one transmission point in the network, respectively, or corresponds to at least one coordinated multipoint (CoMP) configuration, respectively.
US09161152B2 Multidimensional virtual learning system and method
A process and system for generating three dimensional sound conferencing includes generating a virtual map with a plurality of positions, each participant selecting one of the positions, determining a direction from each position to each other position on the map, determining a distance from each position to each other position on the map, receiving sound from each participant, mixing the received sound, transforming the mixed sound into binaural audio, and directing the binaural audio sound to each participant via a speaker associated with the virtual position of the speaking participant. The result is a clarified sound that gives to the listening participant a sense of where the speaking participant is positioned relative to the listening participant.
US09161150B2 Audio rendering device and audio rendering method
An audio rendering device which uses multichannel speakers includes: a first delay computation unit which computes, based on rendering information about the multichannel speakers, a first delay corresponding to a primary wavefront which propagates in a predetermined traveling direction from a sound source that is each of speakers included in the multichannel speakers; a second delay computation unit which computes, based on the rendering information about the multichannel speakers, a second delay corresponding to a secondary wavefront which is generated by the primary wavefront and has a scattering wavefront; an addition unit which adds up the first delay and the second delay to compute a total delay; and a delay filter which applies the total delay to an input audio signal to generate a multichannel audio signal for use in rendering with the multichannel speakers, and outputs the multichannel audio signal to the multichannel speakers.
US09161148B2 Signal processing apparatus and method for providing 3D sound effect
A signal processing apparatus and method providing a 3-dimensional (3D) sound effect may determine a mask related to an ambience of an input signal, separate the input signal into a primary signal and an ambience signal using the mask, decorrelate the ambience signal, and sum the decorrelated ambience signal and the primary signal, accordingly generating an output signal to which a sound effect is applied.
US09161146B2 Device and method for diagnosing audio circuitry
The present invention provides a device and method for diagnosing an audio circuitry, which is applied to a mobile terminal and its earphone. Both of the mobile terminal and its earphone include: a MIC circuit and a sounding circuit, wherein, this device includes: a MIC Circuit Diagnosis Module and a Sounding Circuit Diagnosis Module; A MIC Circuit Diagnosis Module is used for obtaining an amplitude and frequency of a sine wave signal sampled by the MIC circuit, determining whether the MIC circuit is qualified or not according to the amplitude and frequency and outputting the sine wave signal. A Sounding Circuit Diagnosis Module includes: a converter plate with a MIC circuit and a processor; the converter plate is used for sampling an analog signal output by the sounding circuit, converting the analog signal into a digital signal and sending it to a processor; and the processor is used for analyzing and processing the amplitude and frequency of the digital signal and determining whether the sounding circuit is qualified or not. According to the technical scheme provided by the present invention, the quality problem existing in the audio circuitry module of the mobile terminal can be solved, so as to reduce users' complaints and improve the customer satisfaction.
US09161145B1 System and method for faster response time in stereo/mono detection
An audio receiver may include a mono/stereo detector that causes the audio receiver to output either a monophonic or a stereophonic signal based on a difference between a pilot energy signal and a filtered pilot energy signal. The audio receiver includes a filter that filters the pilot energy signal to generate a filtered pilot energy signal, wherein a variable leakage factor associated with the filter is used to minimize a noise level of the filtered pilot energy signal and to reduce a response time of the audio receiver.
US09161143B2 BTE hearing instrument with housing and sound tube
A behind the ear (BTE) hearing instrument has a coupling between a housing and a sound tube. The sound tube is removably connected to the housing by a coupling connected to the sound tube. A sound-tube-side coupling component has a sound channel leading to the sound tube and a housing-side coupling component has a sound channel leading to a receiver, which, when the coupling is closed, are connected to each other by an acoustic seal. The coupling has a lug and an abutment, which connect the sound-tube-side coupling component to the housing-side coupling component in a form-fit and movable manner, in a spatial direction relative to each other. A locking device is provided that, when it is closed, impedes a movement of the coupling components relative to each other. The lug including the corresponding abutment and the locking device are disposed spatially separated from each other in the coupling.
US09161141B2 Wireless charging system for hearing instruments
A facility is provided for the wireless resonant charging of rechargeable hearing instruments. The hearing instrument is freely positionable in a charging device for charging purposes. The charging device for the wireless charging has a transmit antenna arrangement, a transmit amplifier for actuating the transmit antenna arrangement and a charging space. The transmit antenna arrangement has two feeding points, which are spatially arranged in relation to the charging space such that a circularly polarized electromagnetic field can thus be generated in the charging space. The transmit amplifier actuates the antennas accordingly to generate a circularly polarized electromagnetic field in the charging space. In the process a coil arrangement generates a circularly polarized HF field. A good resonant coupling, even with a tilted hearing instrument, is possible, in other words with an undetermined and unpredictable orientation and position of the receive coil of the hearing instrument.
US09161140B2 Medical device for lessening the effects of noise and interference from varying or alternating magnetic fields
An external device of an implantable medical system includes a coil that is substantially disposed in an XY-plane. When a first AC electrical signal is passed through the coil, the coil generates an alternating magnetic field that represents the AC electrical signal. The electrical signal can include at least one of power or data. The device also includes a cylindrical shaped permanent magnet with base substantially parallel to the XY-plane. The magnet can be is used to position the external device with respect to an implantable device. Further, the device has a printed circuit board that includes at least a portion that is substantially orthogonal to the XY-plane and the portion can also include an electrical ground plane. In addition, the device can include at least one sensor that is coupled to the portion of the substrate and to the ground plane.
US09161122B2 Apparatus for differential interpolation pulse width modulation digital-to-analog conversion and output signal coding method thereof
A differential interpolation pulse width modulation (iPWM) digital to analog converter is provided, including an iPWM module for generating differential pulses from an input digital audio data stream, a power driver for providing energy to a terminal load and a filter for removing unwanted harmonic signals to reconstruct an analog signal, wherein the iPWM module further includes a PWM pulse generator to convert the digital input numerical code to a series of time domain pulses; an interpolation unit to increase the time domain resolution of the pulses; a self-calibration unit to maintain the pulse-width accuracy of the interpolation unit; a differential pulse width generator to convert the series of time domain pulses into voltage and time domain differential form.
US09161117B2 Multi-mode listening apparatus
A headset apparatus including a headband having two end portions, each of the end portions comprising an angled hinge having two opposing ends. The apparatus further includes at least two speakers, each of the speakers rotatably attached to the two ends of the angled hinged to form two rotary joints, wherein rotation of the speaker about an axis of rotation between the two rotary joints transitions the apparatus between a first listening mode to a second listening mode.
US09161114B2 Earmolds
This disclosure relates generally to an apparatus for retaining an earpiece in the ear during physical movement and exercise. In various instances, the apparatus may include a thinned region a posterior arch and ribs to allow deformation of the earmold and facilitate securing of the earmold in the concha bowl of the ear.
US09161110B1 Loudspeaker mount
A loudspeaker mount includes a coupling member and a platform attached to the coupling member. The platform includes a wall defining a planar face configured for disposal of a loudspeaker. The coupling member may be clamped to a handle bar of a bicycle.
US09161109B2 Loudspeaker, and electronic apparatus and mobile device using the loudspeaker
A loudspeaker includes a diaphragm, a magnetic circuit, and a frame. The frame includes an outer peripheral part supporting the diaphragm, a center part supporting the magnetic circuit, and a connection part connecting the center part to the outer peripheral part. The outer peripheral part molded with resin includes an inner wall, an outer wall facing the inner wall, and a reinforcing rib provided between the inner wall and the outer wall.
US09161105B2 Routing optical signals
Systems, methods, and apparatus to route optical signals are disclosed. An example apparatus to route optical signals includes a plurality of hollow metal waveguide optical switch arrays. Each of the arrays comprises a plurality of optical input ports and a plurality of optical output ports. The input ports and the output ports for a first one of the arrays are arranged in a first plane, the input ports and the output ports for a second one of the arrays are arranged in a second plane, and the plurality of arrays are stacked such that the first and second planes are adjacent. The first one of the arrays is to convey optical signals from a first communication device to a second communication device and the second one of the arrays is to convey optical signals from the second communication device to the first communication device.
US09161101B2 Bearer path optimization
Call control for originating and terminating calls in a visited circuit-switched subsystem (CS) or home multimedia subsystem (MS) as well as transferring calls between the visited CS and the home MS may be anchored at a continuity control function (CCF) in the home MS. Call signaling for the call may be passed through the CCF. When the user element is homed to the home MS and served by the visited CS, the bearer path for the call is established based on the relative proximity of the home MS and the visited CS. When a local MS is more proximate to the visited CS, the bearer path may be routed through a gateway in the local MS, instead of through the gateway in the home MS. When the home MS is sufficiently proximate to the visited CS, the bearer path is routed through the gateway in the home MS.
US09161099B2 Targeting television ads using keywords
Described herein is a system and method of ad targeting that automatically matches advertisements to media based on the demographic signatures of each. The method and system include calculating a match score between historical buyer demographics and media demographics. Media which is similar to the demographic of the product buyers is targeted for advertising.
US09161098B2 Method and apparatus for reporting audience measurement in content transmission system
A method and apparatus for reporting a consumption time of a service or content in Audience Measurement (AM), which measures a user consumption pattern of the service or the content is provided. A method for reporting a consumption time of the service or the content in a terminal of a content transmission system includes receiving an encryption key for encrypting the service or the content from a broadcasting server and transmitting a message requesting interpretation of the encryption key to a smart card. The message includes consumption time information of the service or the content.
US09161094B2 Methods and apparatus for broadcast and multicast/unicast transition
Mechanisms are provided for efficient transition between broadcast media reception and multicast/unicast media reception. Broadcast media quality is dynamically analyzed to determine when transition is appropriate. Broadcast services are mapped to multicast/unicast delivered services. Transition occurs smoothly by acquiring both broadcast and multicast/unicast media during transition and analyzing timing data to allow for media stream alignment and switchover.
US09161085B2 Adaptive timeline views of data
Concepts and technologies are described herein for providing adaptive timeline views of data. In accordance with the concepts and technologies disclosed herein, data is displayed in an adaptive timeline view in which data is presented using a time scale. The time scale can be modified to increase or decrease a span of time displayed by the adaptive timeline view, or a span of time can be shifted without affecting the time scale applied to the data. Motion can be used to convey information about the data during transitions from a first view to a modified view. As such, the adaptive timeline view can convey various layers of information to a user interacting with the adaptive timeline view.
US09161084B1 Method and system for media audience measurement by viewership extrapolation based on site, display, and crowd characterization
The present invention provides a comprehensive method to design an automatic media audience measurement system that can estimate the site-wide audience of a media of interest (e.g., the site-wide viewership of a target display) based on the measurements of a subset of the actual audience sampled from a limited space in the site. This invention enables (1) the placement of sensors in optimal positions for the viewership data measurement and (2) the estimation of the site-wide viewership of the target display by performing the viewership extrapolation based on the sampled viewership data. The viewership extrapolation problem is formulated in a way that the time-varying crowd dynamics around the target display is an important decisive factor as well as the sampled viewership data at a given time in yielding the estimated site-wide viewership. To solve this problem, the system elements that affect the viewership—site, display, crowd, and audience—and their relationships are first identified in terms of the visibility, the viewership relevancy, and the crowd occupancy. The optimal positions of the sensors are determined to cover the maximum area of the viewership with high probabilities. The viewership extrapolation function is then modeled and learned from the sampled viewership data, the site-wide viewership data, and the crowd dynamics measurements while removing the noise in the sampled viewership data using the viewership relevancy of the measurements to the target display.
US09161076B2 Information processing system, server system, terminal system, information processing program, and information presentation method
An information processing system comprises a terminal system which includes a terminal device and also comprises a server system. In the terminal system, a microphone provided in the terminal device senses a sound in the vicinity thereof. Sound information representing the sound sensed by the microphone or a feature of the sound is transmitted to the server system. In the server system, the sound in the vicinity of the terminal device is specified based on the sound information. Also, presentation information to be presented by the terminal device is specified based on the specified sound, and the presentation information is transmitted to the information processing device. The terminal system receives displays the presentation information transmitted from the server, and presentation information is displayed on a display unit of the terminal device.
US09161075B2 System independent remote storing of digital content
A system and a method are disclosed for a content delivery system that enable system-independent, remote storing of digital content on any number of a user's devices. The system and method enable a user to designate a digital content item appearing in a web page for storage, as well as a specific, separate device on which to store the content item. The digital content item is not restricted to being viewed or accessed within the content delivery system, but rather the content delivery system enables remote storing of digital content across multiple different systems, from multiple different content sources, for viewing on multiple different devices for any given user.
US09161074B2 Methods and systems for distributing interactive content
Aspects of the present invention relate to methods and systems for controlling the distribution of supplementary content by generating a first control signal when known content is initially detected in a broadcast stream, and after generating the first control signal, generating a second control signal when the detected content is no longer detected in the broadcast stream. The first and second control signals may be used to control the distribution of supplementary content.
US09161072B2 Video link discovery in a video-link aggregation system
Methods and systems for presentation of content through an interface to provide personalized video feeds to a user. A selective feed is generated by combining a first service feed and a second service feed. Additional feed items are generated by searching content objects for additional links to videos.
US09161067B1 Systems and methods for determining a time period remaining until a live production system changes states
Disclosed herein are systems and methods for determining a time period remaining until a live production system changes states. An example method involves accessing a stored television-broadcasting traffic log; making a first determination that a log-entry A in the traffic log does not correspond to a live-production source; making a second determination that a log-entry B in the traffic log is the next log entry after the log-entry A to correspond to a live-production source; making a third determination that the log-entry B includes a start-time B; responsive to making the first, second, and third determinations, proximate a current time that is on or after a start-time A corresponding to the log-entry A and that is before the start-time B, determining a time period as a difference between the current time and the start-time B; and providing the determined time-period to an output device for presentation proximate the current time.
US09161057B2 Non-zero rounding and prediction mode selection techniques in video encoding
In one aspect of this disclosure, rounding adjustments to bi-directional predictive data may be purposely eliminated to provide predictive data that lacks any rounding bias. In this case, rounded and unrounded predictive data may both be considered in a rate-distortion analysis to identify the best data for prediction of a given video block. In another aspect of this disclosure, techniques are described for selecting among default weighted prediction, implicit weighted prediction, and explicit weighted prediction. In this context, techniques are also described for adding offset to prediction data, e.g., using the format of explicit weighted prediction to allow for offsets to predictive data that is otherwise determined by implicit or default weighted prediction.
US09161047B2 Image encoding apparatus and method, image decoding apparatus, and non-transitory computer readable medium
An image encoding apparatus includes an input unit that receives image data; a prediction unit that calculates a predicted pixel value of a pixel of interest to be processed in the image data; a prediction error calculating unit that calculates a prediction error value by using an actual pixel value and the predicted pixel value of the pixel of interest; a main encoder that encodes the prediction error value with information including a number of bits and an error value, the main encoder encoding, as the error value, only one or more most significant bits corresponding to a number of effective bits when the number of bits exceeds the number of effective bits; and an additional encoder that encodes one or more least significant bits of the prediction error value, excluding the one or more most significant bits corresponding to the number of effective bits, as an additional error value.
US09161046B2 Determining quantization parameters for deblocking filtering for video coding
A video coder determines a deblocking quantization parameter (QP) value based on at least one of a first QP value and a second QP value. Subsequently, the video coder applies a deblocking filter that is based on the deblocking filter to an edge associated with a first video block. The edge occurs at a boundary between the first video block and a second video block. The first video block is associated with a current coding unit (CU) and the second video block is associated with a neighboring CU. The current CU is included in a first quantization group and the neighboring CU is included in a second quantization group. The first QP value is defined for the first quantization group. The second QP value is defined for the second quantization group.
US09161038B2 Method and device for encoding a high frequency signal, and method and device for decoding a high frequency signal
A method and a device for encoding a high frequency signal, and a method and a device for decoding a high frequency signal are provided, which relate to encoding and decoding technology. The method for encoding a high frequency signal includes: determining a signal class of a high frequency signal of a current frame; smoothing and scaling time envelopes of the high frequency signal of the current frame and obtaining time envelopes of the high frequency signal of the current frame that require to be encoded, if the high frequency signal of the current frame is a non-transient signal and a high frequency signal of the previous frame is a transient signal; and quantizing and encoding the time envelopes of the high frequency signal of the current frame that require to be encoded, and frequency information and signal class information of the high frequency signal of the current frame.
US09161037B2 Image encoding device, image encoding method, image decoding device, image decoding method, program, and storage medium
A prediction set determining section selects a prediction set from a prediction set group including a plurality of prediction sets having different combinations of prediction modes corresponding to different prediction directions. Further, a prediction mode determining section selects a prediction mode from the prediction set thus selected. An entropy encoding section encodes the prediction set thus selected, the prediction mode thus selected, and residual data between an input image and a predicted image formed on the basis of the prediction set and the prediction mode. This allows an image encoding device to carry out predictions from more various angles, thereby improving prediction efficiency.
US09161027B2 Method and apparatus for providing camera calibration
A method for providing a camera calibration includes recovering geometric information from a single rectangular image, obtaining intrinsic and extrinsic construction information of a camera based on the recovered geometric information, obtaining a shooting position and real geometric information of the camera from the obtained intrinsic and extrinsic construction information of the camera.
US09161022B2 Electro-optical device, method of driving electro-optical device, and electronic apparatus
One frame is divided into a first-half field and a second-half field, and each of the fields is further divided into subfields. In addition, a pixel is controlled to be turned on or off for each of the subfields to display a gradation. A right eye image is formed with a positive polarity in a first-half field of an odd block, and a left eye image is formed with a negative polarity in a second-half field. In an even block, a right eye image is formed with a negative polarity in a first-half field, and a left eye image is formed with a positive polarity in a second-half field.
US09161020B2 3D video shooting control system, 3D video shooting control method and program
The present invention provides a 3D video shooting control system which controls the position and direction of a pair of imaging devices in order to obtain a suitable 3D effect or maintain the safety, taking the shooting condition and the viewing condition into consideration comprehensively. A base-line length and a convergence angle of a pair of imaging devices are controlled based on an integration model in which a 3D shooting and broadcasting model and a 3D object model are integrated. A base-line length determination unit 6d-1 determines a base-line length based on the relationship expressed by an integration model equation 1 and a camera control unit 6e moves the pair of imaging devices to change the position thereof so that the pair of imaging devices has the determined base-line length.
US09161017B2 3D image capture device
This 3D image capture device includes: a light-transmitting section 1 including first and second light-transmitting areas 1L and 1R; an image sensor 2a arranged to receive the light transmitted through the light-transmitting section 1; an imaging section 3 that produces an image on an imaging area of the image sensor 2a; and an image capturing driving section that drives the image sensor so as to perform image capturing sessions at least twice in a row and drives the light-transmitting section so that the first and second light-transmitting areas change their positions every image capturing session. The first light-transmitting area 1L transmits light falling within a first wavelength range included in a color red wavelength range and light falling within a second wavelength range included in a color green wavelength range. The second light-transmitting area 1R transmits light falling within a third wavelength range, included in the color green wavelength range and shorter than the second wavelength range, and light falling within a fourth wavelength range included in a color blue wavelength range.
US09161010B2 System and method for generating robust depth maps utilizing a multi-resolution procedure
A system and method for generating robust depth maps includes a depth estimator that creates a depth map pyramid structure that includes a plurality of depth map levels that each have different resolution characteristics. In one embodiment, the depth map levels include a fine-scale depth map, a medium-scale depth map, and a coarse scale depth map. The depth estimator evaluates depth values from the fine-scale depth map by utilizing fine-scale confidence features, and evaluates depth values from the medium-scale depth map and the coarse-scale depth map by utilizing coarse-scale confidence features. The depth estimator then fuses optimal depth values from the different depth map levels into an optimal depth map.
US09161009B2 System, terminal device, and image capturing method
A system includes: an information processing device and a terminal device including a first processor configured to: receive image data including a plurality of first image data that are to be displayed in accordance with a first operation input to the terminal device, store the image data into the first memory, generate, on the basis of a first operation locus corresponding to the first operation and a second operation locus corresponding to a second operation input to the terminal device after the first operation, moving image data that is to be played back in accordance with the second operation, the moving image data including at least a portion of the image data stored in the first memory and corresponding to respective points of the first operation locus, and display the moving image data in the display device.
US09161007B2 Automated story generation
Automatic story production is implemented by the utilization of theme scripts with user assets to generate a quality finished product with minimum user input or direction. A user chooses a predesigned theme script to be applied to the user's assets to automatically create a story with a particular look and feel. Metadata and feature information, when available, is automatically gathered from the user assets to personalize the generated story. A user can include additional information and/or alter any aspect of the generated story to further personalize the resultant finished product.
US09161001B2 Image capturing apparatus that suppresses color deviation resulting from noise due to temperature and exposure time
An image capturing apparatus comprises an image sensor configured to photoelectrically convert incident light into an image signal and to output the image signal; an exposure time control unit configured to control exposure time when an image is sensed by the image sensor; a gain control unit configured to control a gain to be applied to the image signal; a temperature detection unit; and a color suppression unit configured to determine, from at least one of the exposure time and the temperature, a noise level that changes with the exposure time and the temperature and to suppress, on the basis of a level of color deviation that corresponds to the determined noise level and of the gain, a color component of the image signal so that the color deviation is reduced.
US09161000B2 Light parameter measurement method and device, screen adjustment method and electronic device
A method and device for light parameter measurement, a method for screen adjustment and an electronic device are provided. A current image parameter corresponding to a type of a parameter to be measured obtained by a camera under a first operation mode is acquired, a light parameter value corresponding to the current image parameter is determined based on a preset correspondence between an image parameter and a light parameter, and the light parameter value corresponding to the current image parameter is taken as a current light parameter.
US09160999B2 Image processing device and imaging device
An image processing method in accordance with one aspect of the present invention includes: preparing a storage unit storing a color mix ratio, which is each of color mix ratios of peripheral pixels adjacent to an object pixel for mixed color correction in a mosaic image including pixels of a plurality of colors, corresponding to each of combinations of first and second parameters indicating an azimuth direction and a color of each of the peripheral pixels, respectively; acquiring color signals of any object pixel and peripheral pixels thereof; reading out a corresponding color mix ratio from the storage unit based on an azimuth direction and a color of each of the peripheral pixels; and eliminating mixed color components included in the object pixel based on the color signals of the object pixel and the peripheral pixels thereof, and the color mix ratio of the peripheral pixels.
US09160993B1 Using projection for visual recognition
Approaches enable the projection of one or more visual elements, such as one or more dynamically changing graphical elements, that can substantially bound, or otherwise at least partially surround or identify, an object recognized by a computing device. The computing device can project the graphical elements to collectively appear as a bounding element for the recognized/actionable object or object portion. As such, the graphical elements can appear as a bounding element that adorns, decorates, highlights, and/or emphasizes, etc., the recognized/actionable object or object portion. The graphical elements to be dynamic. For example, the graphical elements can be projected to move around individually over time, while still appearing to at least partially surround the recognized/actionable object or object portion. Further, the graphical elements can be used to improve various object recognition approaches.
US09160975B2 Providing a dedicated channel accessible to a group of users
A system includes a service provider network configured to communicate with a plurality of television-based user devices. The system also includes a database storing a status of user activity with respect to each of the plurality of television-based user devices and storing indicators of user-defined relationships between respective users of the plurality of television-based user devices. The system further includes a dedicated channel accessible to a group of users of the plurality of television-based user devices. The dedicated channel is arranged to enable interactive activity between members of the group.
US09160973B2 Broadcast receiving apparatus and broadcast receiving method
Before a device key generation procedure is updated in response to execution of revocation, a recorded transport stream is decrypted using an unupdated device key and is stored in a memory unit after being re-encrypted. In this manner, broadcast programs that are recorded before the revocation can be viewed while maintaining a copyright protection function.
US09160954B2 Solid-state imaging element, method of driving the same, and camera system
Provided is a solid-state imaging element including pixel signal read lines, and a pixel signal reading unit for reading pixel signals from a pixel unit via the pixel signal read line. The pixel unit includes a plurality of pixels arranged in a matrix form, each pixel including a photoelectric conversion element. In the pixel unit, a shared pixel in which an output node is shared among a plurality of pixels is formed, and a pixel signal of each pixel in the shared pixel is capable of being selectively output from the shared output node to a corresponding one of the pixel signal read lines. The pixel signal reading unit sets a bias voltage for a load element which is connected to the pixel signal read line and in which current dependent on a bias voltage flows in the load element, to a voltage causing a current value to be higher than current upon a reference bias voltage when there is no difference between added charge amounts, when addition of pixel signals of the respective pixels in the shared pixel is driven.
US09160948B2 Replica noise generator using pixel modeling and ramp signal generator including the same
A replica noise generator includes a control logic unit suitable for outputting a capacitance adjusting signal; a replica noise generation unit suitable for generating a replica noise through a coupling of a power voltage used in a pixel array by adjusting a capacitance value in response to the capacitance adjusting signal; and a source follower suitable for inputting the generated replica noise.
US09160930B2 Lens driving control apparatus and lens apparatus
A lens driving control apparatus includes an image pickup element that includes an imaging pixel and a focus detection pixel and that performs a photoelectric conversion of an object image, a readout unit that reads image signals from the focus detection pixel with a predetermined period, a storage unit that stores the image signals read by the readout unit, an addition unit that adds a plurality of signals in time-series continuous frames of the image signals, a focus detection unit that performs focus detection based on an addition result by the addition unit, and a lens controller that controls a driving speed of a lens based on the addition number of times by the addition unit and a result of the focus detection unit, and the lens controller performs a control so that the driving speed of the lens is reduced when the addition number of times increases.
US09160914B2 User control of the visual performance of a compressive imaging system
A compressive imaging system modulates an incident light stream and senses the modulated light stream to obtain compressive measurements. The measurements are algorithmically processed to reconstruct a sequence of images. The image sequence is displayed. The system receives user input (through a user interface) representing a user command to set or change one or more visual performance factors such as image quality and frame rate. The system immediately adjusts the visual performance factors by adjusting one or more underlying system parameters/algorithms. Thus, the visual consequences of any inputs to the user interface become immediately apparent in the displayed sequence of images. The user may therefore intuitively learn how to operate the user interface simply by making trial inputs and observing their effects in the displayed image sequence. The user interface may include one or more mechanical input devices and/or one or more graphical user interface (GUI) elements.
US09160905B2 Imaging apparatus and interchangeable lens
A camera includes a ferromagnetic member, which is formed of a ferromagnetic material into one of a plate shape and a film shape, and arranged between a coil and an imaging element so that a part of a flat surface is opposed to the coil. The ferromagnetic member has a thickness that is less than a skin depth, which is determined by a drive frequency of a coil, magnetic permeability of the ferromagnetic material, and electric conductivity of the ferromagnetic material. Accordingly, with the ferromagnetic member having a smaller thickness than before, an amount of arrival by which magnetic flux generated at the coil arrives at the imaging element may be reduced.
US09160903B2 Camcorder aiming device
The present invention relates to an aiming device for a camcorder. An open frame with an attachment means is mounted to the camcorder such that one can see what the camcorder will record through the open frame yet still view the non recorded material at the same time.
US09160897B2 Fast motion estimation method
An estimated total camera motion between temporally proximate image frames is computed. A desired component of the estimated total camera motion is determined including distinguishing an undesired component of the estimated total camera motion, and including characterizing vector values of motion between the image frames. A counter is incremented for each pixel group having a summed luminance that is greater than a threshold. A counter may be decremented for pixels that are under a second threshold, or a zero bit may be applied to pixels below a single threshold. The threshold or thresholds is/are determined based on a dynamic luminance range of the sequence. The desired camera motion is computed including representing the vector values based on final values of counts for the image frames. A corrected image sequence is generated including the desired component of the estimated total camera motion, and excluding the undesired component.
US09160893B2 Image recording system and image recording method
A color gamut is extended, and thus high color and gradation are realized. An image recording system includes: a conversion unit for converting input color signals constituting an input image into signals constituting a group of recording material overlapped structures that includes a recording material overlapped structure in which at least two or more recording materials are overlapped to form pixels; and a recording unit for recording the recording materials on a recording medium in accordance with the converted signals.
US09160891B2 Image processing method, image processor, and image display system
An image processing method, which performs color correction on a superimposed image obtained by superimposing a first image formed by a first image forming unit and a second image formed by a second image forming unit, includes controlling the dimming of the first image forming unit and the second image forming unit on the basis of dimming rates set in the first image forming unit and the second image forming unit in response to a given designated dimming rate, and performing a color correction process on image signals corresponding to the first image forming unit and the second image forming unit using a color correction value corresponding to the dimming rates of the first image forming unit and the second image forming unit.
US09160890B2 Method and apparatus for converting a color from one color system to another color system
A color conversion device includes: a hue acquisition unit that acquires a hue of a second target color having the same lightness and the same chroma as a first target color within Voronoi diagrams in which predefined colors defined in a color conversion table are set as generator points; a side group acquisition unit that acquires side groups that are two groups located on both sides of the first target color in terms of the hue, based on a hue of the first target color and the hue of the second target color; and a color conversion unit that acquires a third target color by converting the first target color from a color in a color system before conversion into a color in a color system after the conversion based on the predefined colors of the side groups acquired by the side group acquisition unit and the first target color.
US09160887B2 Printing medium, information processing method, information processing device
A printing medium that is capable of expressing vivid colors without increasing the number of colors and capable of suppressing a printing cost of a dot pattern printing, an information processing method, and an information processing device that use the printing medium are provided that make it possible to perform superposed printing of a graphic and a dot pattern with one color without using inks having different frequency characteristics. A dot pattern includes grid dots arranged in accordance with a predetermined rule for defining information with halftone dots that are superimposed and printed. The printing medium is printed in a way in which dots on the printing medium are detected from brightness information recorded in bitmap image data by a predetermined method and the dots are determined either as the grid dots that constitute the dot pattern or the halftone dots by an image analysis processing unit.
US09160864B2 Systems and methods for stereo echo cancellation
Acoustic echoes in communications systems are distracting and undesirable. Acoustic echoes occur in communications systems where sound produced by a speaker is picked up by a microphone in a communications system. In a stereo playback environment, echo cancellation techniques become more complicated. Echo cancellation can be performed by performing echo cancellation on a center signal, which is the sum of a left channel signal and the right channel signal, or left signal and a difference signal, which is the difference of the right channel signal and the left channel signal. The adaptation rates of the two echo cancellers meet certain constraints to prevent degeneracies in the echo cancellation system.
US09160858B2 Routing of work in an enterprise based upon social information associated with enterprise agents and clients
Techniques are provided for receiving incoming work at an enterprise, obtaining social information for agents of the enterprise, comparing the social information obtained for the enterprise agents with information associated with the incoming work, and assigning the incoming work to a selected enterprise agent based upon at least one common feature included in the social information for the selected enterprise agent and the incoming work.
US09160857B2 Method for the operation of a system and system for the administration of calls to a call center
A method is provided for the operation of a system for the administration of calls to a call center. A first call initiated by a caller using a call number allocated to the call center is automatically received and held in a waiting queue. A waiting position with respect to the first call is determined and the first call is ranged in the waiting queue corresponding to the determined waiting position. The calls held in the waiting queue are forwarded one after the other to an available call center agent. The first call is terminated within a time interval if the call has not been forwarded, and a second call to the caller is initiated by using a recorded call number. If the second call is answered, the second call will be ranged in the waiting queue, wherein the waiting position is determined in consideration of the first call.
US09160852B2 Real-time call center call monitoring and analysis
Systems and methods are provided for analyzing conversations between customers and call center agents in real-time. An agent may be located at an agent station having a display screen. A continuous audio feed of the conversation between a customer and an agent may be received. For every second that the customer is speaking, a customer emotion score may be calculated in real-time. A frequency at which calculated customer emotion scores equal or exceed an emotion score threshold during a specified time interval may be calculated in real-time during the conversation. The calculated frequency for the customer may be compared, in real-time, to a plurality of specified frequency thresholds. A visual representation corresponding to a highest of the plurality of specified frequency thresholds that is equaled or exceeded by the calculated frequency for the customer may be displayed in real-time on the display screen of the agent station.
US09160850B2 Method and system for informing customer service agent of details of user's interaction with voice-based knowledge retrieval system
The present invention describes a method and system for informing a customer service agent of the details of a service user's interaction with a voice-based knowledge retrieval system. More particularly the invention is directed to a method of informing a customer service agent of details of a user's interaction with a voice retrieval system including the steps of providing a user of a voice retrieval system with a list of one or more information items, playing the one or more information items to the user in response to one or more user inputs, storing a transcript of the user's interaction with the one or more information items, transferring the user from the voice retrieval system to a customer service agent in response to the one or more user inputs; and providing the customer service agent with the transcript of the user's interaction with the one or more information items.
US09160848B2 Electronic device and method of controlling the same
To achieve the objects of the present invention, according to an aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is provided which includes a communication unit, an output unit, and a controller that connects a call received through the communication unit, performs an automatic conversation operation to conduct an automatic conversation with a calling party, and selectively performs one of a first operation to terminate the call and a second operation to generate recognition information on the automatic conversation and to output the recognition information based on the automatic conversation.
US09160846B2 Electronic system and method for screening incoming communications
The present invention relates generally to electronic systems and methods for screening incoming phone calls and more particularly to a system and method of hosting a cloud synced database of authorized or unauthorized callers, phone numbers, or numbers associated with unauthorized merchant identification numbers which is a solution to robo-calling and telemarketers.
US09160830B2 Mobile communication apparatus having anti-theft and auto-notification functions
A mobile communication apparatus comprises a first SIM card, an anti-theft control circuit, a transmission control circuit, and a security module. The first SIM card is engaged with the mobile communication apparatus and has corresponding first identification information. The anti-theft control circuit has a SIM-card-detection module and an information management module. The SIM-card-detection module is used for detecting whether the first SIM card is replaced by a second SIM card and generating a corresponding detection result. The information management module is used for storing the corresponding first identification information, predetermined contact information, and a user personal database. The transmission control circuit is used for transmitting data and/or signals. The security module provides a data security class. When the SIM-card-detection module generates the detection result, the transmission control circuit will send a notice signal according to the predetermined contact information, and when the security module receives the detection result, a data security procedure in the security module is enabled to protect the data in the user personal database according to the set data security class.
US09160829B2 Dynamic audio parameter adjustment using touch sensing
An audio communications device has a handset in which a touch sensing ear piece region is coupled to an acoustic leakage analyzer. The acoustic leakage analyzer is to analyze signals from the touch sensing ear piece region and on that basis adjust an audio processing parameter. The latter configures an audio processor which generates an audio receiver input signal for the device. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
US09160828B2 Managing communications utilizing communication categories
Systems, methods, and computer-readable mediums for managing communications on telecommunication devices utilizing communication categories are provided. A subset of contacts accessible by a telecommunication device are associated with one or more communication categories. Each communication category can be associated with a set of communication activities. Based on a selection of a specific contact, a telecommunication device can generate a display having display objects representative of communication categories associated with the selected contact. Additionally, based on a selection of a communication category, the telecommunication device can further generate a display including display objects representative of a set of communication activities corresponding to the selected communication category.
US09160820B2 Large volume data transfer
Described herein is a technology to facilitate large volume data transfer. In one implementation, an application server determines if an application is invoking a procedure in a data server. If the application is determined to be invoking the procedure, the application data is encoded to compress application data volume. The encoded application data is then transferred from the application server to a data server. At the data server, the application data is decoded for processing by the data server.
US09160801B1 Local event overlays to global social media network
A system includes a local social media context server aboard a vehicle, the local social media context server including logic to implement a local social media context for a passenger aboard the vehicle, the local social media context being configured with a duration commensurate with a duration of a trip by the passenger on the vehicle; an antenna coupled to the local social media context server; and logic to prioritize content posted to the local social media context by the person for promotion to the person's global social media context.
US09160799B2 Systems and methods for authorizing services in a telecommunications network
A computer-implemented method for authorizing access by a user device to at least one service offered over an Internet Protocol (IP) network is provided. A server receives a message from the user device. The message indicates that the user device is configured to support the at least one service. The server then retrieves from a database policy data associated with the user device. The server validates based on the policy data that the user device is authorized to advertise the at least one service and the at least one service is available for access by the user device. If the at least one service is unauthorized or unavailable for access by the user device, the server modifies the message to indicate one or more authorized and available services for the user device without including the at least one service.
US09160782B1 System and method of remotely accessing and publishing online memorial content
A system is provided comprising processor, memory and a memorial application stored in the memory that, when executed on the processor, receives a message from a mobile device, the message requesting information about physical memorials proximate the device. The system also matches a physical location of the device with at least a first proximate physical memorial described in a database. The system also transmits to the device a list including the at least first proximate physical memorial and other physical memorials within a predetermined distance of the present physical location, wherein information about the at least first proximate physical memorial and the other physical memorials is publicly available. The system also receives a second message from the device containing a selection of the first physical memorial from the list. The system also sends to the device electronic media commemorating at least one deceased person associated with the first physical memorial.
US09160778B2 Signaling enabling status feedback and selection by a network entity of portions of video information to be delivered via wireless transmission to a UE
A method includes exchanging signaling between a first entity providing access by a user equipment to a video stream and a second entity through which the video stream passes prior to being delivered via wireless transmission to the user equipment, the second entity receiving video information corresponding to the video stream, the exchanged signaling associated with the video information received at the second entity. Responsive to the exchanged signaling, sending information from the first entity to the second entity to modify status at the second entity of at least a portion of the video information previously received at the second entity. Another method includes at the first entity, receiving from a second entity an indication the second entity is capable of accepting multiple resolutions of a video in the video stream. Responsive to the received indication, the first entity sends to the second entity multiple resolutions of the video.
US09160768B2 Systems and methods for managing application security profiles
Systems and methods for configuring and evaluating policies that direct processing of one or more data streams are described. A configuration interface is described for allowing users to specify object oriented policies. These object oriented policies may allow any data structures to be applied with respect to a payload of a received packet stream, including any portions of HTTP traffic. A configuration interface may also allow the user to control the order in which policies and policy groups are executed, in addition to specifying actions to be taken if one or more policies are undefined. Systems and methods for processing the policies may allow efficient processing of object-oriented policies by applying potentially complex data structures to unstructured data streams. A device may also interpret and process a number of flow control commands and policy group invocation statements to determine an order of execution among a number of policies and policy groups. These policy configurations and processing may allow configuration and processing of complex network behaviors relating to load balancing, VPNs, SSL offloading, content switching, application security, acceleration, and caching.
US09160755B2 Trusted communication network
A system includes a processing node configured to send authorized inbound messages to registered enterprise networks. An authorized message is a message that includes trusted source indicia. Trusted source indicia indicates that the message was sent by one or more of the processing node or an authenticated message transfer node associated with one of the registered enterprise networks. The system may further include an administration node configured to maintain registration of a plurality of message transfer nodes associated with the enterprise networks. A method includes receiving outbound messages from an authenticated message transfer node of an enterprise network, screening the messages for threats to determine whether to send the messages to associated recipients, applying a first message identifier to each message, wherein the first message identifier can be used to track the message and, for each message, sending the message to the associated recipient if no threats are detected in the message.
US09160754B2 Location based authentication of users to a virtual machine in a computer system
An apparatus and method uses location based authentication of a user accessing a virtual machine (VM) by using the physical location of the virtual machine as a criteria for the authentication. When a user requires a logical partition to run in a known, specified physical location, the user specifies the physical location when the VM is created. The specified physical location is then incorporated into the user authentication process. Users are challenged and must know the physical location in order to be authenticated to the system. When a “disruptive event” in the cloud environment occurs that necessitates moving the VM to another location, the original physical location is stored so the virtualization manager later can automatically relocate the VM back to its original physical location.
US09160737B2 Statistical security for anonymous mesh-up oriented online services
Web pages and applications commonly consume functionality provided by services to provide users with a rich experience. For example, a backend mapping service may provide access to these services. However, the users and application consuming the services may be anonymous and unverified. Accordingly, a two ticket validation technique is provided to validate service execution requests from anonymous applications. In particular, a user is provided with a client ticket comprising a reputation. The reputation may be adjusted over time based upon how the user consumes services. An application may request access to a service by providing the client ticket and an application ticket for validation. The reputation of the user may be used to determine an access level at which the application may access the service. Users with a high reputation may receive high quality access to the service, while users with a low reputation may receive lower quality access.
US09160728B2 Message sending/receiving method
Signature generation key sk_s is randomized with random number r to calculate randomized signature generation key sk′_s=SigningKeyRandomize(sk_s, r). The random number r is encrypted with public encryption key pk_e to calculate an encrypted random number R=Enc(pk_e, r)). A message m is signed with the randomized signature generation key sk′_s to calculate signed message s′=Sign(sk′_s, m). The signed message s′ and the encrypted random number R are sent to a recipient, where sk_s represents the secret signature generation key of a sender of the message m, pk_e represents the public encryption key of the recipient, r represents the random number, s represents a signature, Sign represents a signature generation function, s=Sign(sk_s, m) represents a signature for the message m, SigningKeyRandomize represents a function for randomizing the secret signature generation key sk_s, and Enc represents an encryption function.
US09160725B2 Computer implemented system and method for authenticating a sender of electronic data to a recipient
A sever receives data from a sender to be dispatched to a recipient. Before dispatching the data to the recipient the server sends a message to the sender's email address requesting a response which will confirm the sender's authorship of the data. Upon receiving the confirmation about sender's authorship of the data, the server transmits the data together with an identification of the sender to the recipient.
US09160715B2 System and method for controlling access to a device allocated to a logical information processing device
A logical information-processing device is allocated based on a request from a terminal device. In an information-processing device, one of plural storage devices is connected to one of plural processing devices each including a managing unit. First correspondence information stores physical identification information identifying the information-processing device in association with address information of the managing unit. Second correspondence information stores the physical identification information in association with logical identification information identifying the logical information-processing device. A managing device obtains address information of the managing unit of the information-processing device corresponding to the logical information-processing device allocated to the terminal device, by using the physical identification information obtained, based on the logical identification information included in the request, from the second correspondence information. A proxy device accesses the managing unit of the corresponding information-processing device based on the address information obtained by the managing device.
US09160713B2 Filtering network data transfers
Aspects of this disclosure relate to filtering network data transfers. In some variations, multiple packets may be received. A determination may be made that a portion of the packets have packet header field values corresponding to a packet filtering rule. Responsive to such a determination, an operator specified by the packet filtering rule may be applied to the portion of packets having the packet header field values corresponding to the packet filtering rule. A further determination may be made that one or more of the portion of the packets have one or more application header field values corresponding to one or more application header field criteria specified by the operator. Responsive to such a determination, at least one packet transformation function specified by the operator may be applied to the one or more of the portion of the packets.
US09160712B2 RF-aware packet filtering in radio access networks
Methods and systems are provided for filtering packets in a wireless communication system in the to-subscriber direction. This filtering is at least in part based on RF circuit state information. For example, a packet filter is used that either permits or denies packets from reaching a mobile subscriber based on whether there is already an established RF circuit to provide packets to the mobile subscriber. Alternatively, or in addition, the packet filter may consider the history of circuit state transitions associated with a particular mobile subscriber, the percentage (or aggregate number) of available airlink resources that are currently in use, and/or the length of time associated with the dormancy of a mobile subscriber's RF connection. In various embodiments, the packet filter may cause one or more packets to be sent to a mobile subscriber using a special data channel that does not require the establishment of an RF circuit.
US09160711B1 Internet cleaning and edge delivery
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media for implementing a cleansing farm are presented. A cleansing farm may comprise of a computing device that filters customer requests directed to an organization before they are routed internal to the organization. A cleansing farm may receive customer requests and filter the requests based on a set of filtering rules. The cleansing farm may inspect the customer request in order to determine whether it should be filtered. In an example where the organization is a financial institution, the customer request may include confidential customer information. Accordingly, in this example, the cleansing farm may be administered by an entity that is permitted to access the confidential customer information. A visualization tool may be used to visualize a plurality of customer requests at a cleansing farm and to generate rules for filtering customer requests at a cleansing farm.
US09160708B2 Methods and apparatuses for handling public identities in an internet protocol multimedia subsystem network
The present invention concern methods and apparatuses for handling public identities in an Internet Protocol Multimedia Subsystem, IMS, network. According to a method an HSS receives a request message from an S-CSCF. The request message includes a public identity. The HSS sends a response message including the registered wildcarded public identity to the S-CSCF if the request message includes an indication that the public identity is unregistered, the request message does not include a wildcarded public identity indication, and the public identity, included in the request message, matches with a wildcarded public identity, registered in the HSS. The S-CSCF is thus enabled to fetch a user profile using the wildcarded public identity.
US09160705B2 Identifier management
A method for managing identifiers can include receiving, in an identifier management system, a request for an identifier in a computing system. The method can also include verifying availability of the identifier. The method can further include returning an affirmative response to a requesting party.
US09160691B2 Information processing apparatus implementing response to editing message
An information processing apparatus includes a receiving unit that receives messages, and a control unit that sends an editing message indicating that a reply message responding to a received message received by the receiving unit is being edited, to a sending source of the received message.
US09160689B2 Systems and methods for profile building using location information from a user device
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for building a profile for a contact. In one exemplary embodiment, a computer-implemented method includes: identifying, via a computing device, missing information from a profile of a contact of a user, wherein the missing information includes a current physical location of the contact; determining whether to include the missing information in the profile based on satisfaction of a threshold; and in response to a determination to include the missing information: obtaining the missing information, wherein obtaining the current physical location of the contact includes retrieving a current physical location of a device of the contact; and adding the missing information to the profile.
US09160684B2 Dynamic updating of scheduling hierarchy in a traffic manager of a network processor
Described embodiments provide for dynamically controlling a scheduling rate of each node in a scheduling hierarchy of a network processor. A traffic manager generates a tree scheduling hierarchy having a root scheduler and N scheduler levels. The network processor generates tasks corresponding to received packets. A traffic manager enqueues received tasks in a queue of the scheduling hierarchy associated with a data flow. The queue has a parent scheduler at each level of the hierarchy up to the root scheduler. The traffic manager maintains one or more scheduling data structures for each node in the scheduling hierarchy. If the traffic manager receives a rate reduction request corresponding to a given node of the scheduling hierarchy, the traffic manager updates one or more indicators in the scheduling data structure corresponding to the given node and removes the given node from the scheduling hierarchy, thereby reducing the scheduling rate of the node.
US09160659B2 Paravirtualized IP over infiniband bridging
Systems and methods for paravirtualized Internet Protocol over Infiniband (IPoIB) bridging for virtual machines. An example method may comprise associating, by a hypervisor executing on a host computer system, an Infiniband (IB) interface of the host computer system with a paravirtualized IPoIB interface of a virtual machine executing on the host computer system; receiving, via the paravirtualized IPoIB interface, a paravirtualized IPoIB packet originated by the virtual machine, the paravirtualized IPoIB packet comprising an IP packet and a first header including an IPoIB hardware address; translating the paravirtualized IPoIB packet into an IPoIB frame comprising the IP packet and a second header including the IPoIB hardware address; and forwarding the IPoIB frame via the IB interface to one of: an IB switch, an external IB node.
US09160648B2 Content-centric network and method of performing routing between domains therefor
A Content-Centric Network and a method of performing routing between domains therefore are provided. The method includes identifying a route from an anchor hub in a first domain to one or more hubs in the first domain, the anchor hub being configured to store routing information between a first border hub of the hubs in the first domain and a second border hub in a second domain, detecting, by each of the hubs in the first domain, a neighboring hub based on a sync direction corresponding to the identified route, and sharing the routing information with the neighboring hub, the sharing of the routing information including performing a sync operation between the neighboring hub and each of the hubs in the first domain.
US09160646B2 Data transmission system and data transmission device
A transmitter of a data transmission system using n transmission lanes generates an error code such as an error detection code or an error correction code from transmitted data on x transmission lanes input to an error detection/correction code generating unit, and transmits the same to a lane number switching controlling unit. The lane number switching controlling unit distributes the transmitted data and the error code to at least some of the n transmission lanes as data strings based on lane information indicating a normal lane, a failure lane, or a lane with a sign of a failure received from a receiver. Further, markers including the lane information indicating a normal or failure lane and information to detect a failure of the n transmission lanes are generated and inserted into data strings transmitted on the n transmission lanes, so that communications are performed with the receiver.
US09160644B1 Packet processor bandwidth verification methods and systems
Methods and systems for implementing self-testing of packet-processing devices are disclosed. For example, a packet-processing device includes a plurality of ports each having a receive media access controller (RX MAC) and a transmit media access controller (TX MAC), and a switching engine that includes a traffic control table coupled to the plurality of ports. The traffic control table is configured to: provide one or more first test packets to a first port, and enable the first port to perform a packet storming operation so as to create a stream of repeated first packets that are transmitted from the first port to one or more selected second ports.
US09160630B2 Network connectivity and security visualization
A method for displaying a graphical user interface for a computing environment including computing resources that are provided to a plurality of organizations over one or more external networks includes displaying representations of the one or more external networks. The method further includes displaying a first node in the graphical user interface that is connected to the representations of at least one of the one or more external networks, where the first node is associated with a first organization; displaying an aggregate node in the graphical user interface that is associated with a plurality of other organizations besides the first organization; receiving a selection to view details of the first organization; and displaying an expanded view of the first organization in the graphical user interface in response to the selection.
US09160622B2 Determining a system configuration for performing a collective operation on a parallel computer
Determining a system configuration for performing a collective operation on a parallel computer that includes a plurality of compute nodes, the compute nodes coupled for data communications over a data communications network, including: selecting a system configuration on the parallel computer for executing the collective operation; executing the collective operation on the selected system configuration on the parallel computer; determining performance metrics associated with executing the collective operation on the selected system configuration on the parallel computer; selecting, using a simulated annealing algorithm, a plurality of test system configurations on the parallel computer for executing the collective operation, wherein the simulated annealing algorithm specifies a similarity threshold between a plurality of system configurations; executing, the collective operation on each of the test system configurations; and determining performance metrics associated with executing the collective operation on each of the test system configurations.
US09160620B2 Integrated fault diagnosis and prognosis for in-vehicle communications
A method of diagnosing a fault in an in-vehicle communication system. The in-vehicle communication system includes a transmitting node, at least one receiving node, and a network communication bus coupling the transmitting node to the at least one receiving node. A message is transmitted from the transmitting node to the at least one receiving node over the communication bus. A fault detection technique is applied within the transmitting node for detecting a fault within the transmitting node. A fault detection technique is applied to the at least one receiving node for detecting a fault within the at least one receiving node. A fault detection technique is applied within the network communication bus for detecting a fault within the communication bus. An analyzer collectively analyzes results from each respective detection technique for isolating a fault within the in-vehicle communication system.
US09160614B2 Remote computer management using network communications protocol that enables communication through a firewall and/or gateway
The invention facilitates remote management of a computer via a network. Remote computer management in which communication between a managed computer and a remote computer management server is initiated by the managed computer is implemented so that the communication is formatted in accordance with a network communications protocol that can be used to format communication that is allowed to pass through a firewall and/or gateway that mediates communication with the managed computer.
US09160610B1 Method and apparatus for coordinating service execution within a shared file system environment to optimize cluster performance
A method and apparatus for coordinating service execution within a shared storage cluster file system environment to optimize cluster performance is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes accessing host information in memory comprising mappings between file data and a plurality of nodes, wherein the mappings indicate at least one portion of the file data that is accessed by at least one node of the plurality of nodes on behalf of at least one application and executing at least one service on the at least one node of the plurality of nodes using at least one processor, wherein the at least one service accesses the at least one portion of the file data in the memory.
US09160609B2 Virtual Layer 2 and mechanism to make it scalable
An apparatus comprising a service network and a plurality of Layer 2 networks at a plurality of different physical locations coupled to the service network via a plurality of edge nodes at the Layer 2 networks, wherein the edge nodes are configured to maintain a plurality of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses of a plurality of hosts across the Layer 2 networks, and wherein the IP addresses of the hosts in each of the Layer 2 networks are mapped by the other Layer 2 networks to a Media Access Control (MAC) address of each of the edge nodes in the same Layer 2 networks of the hosts.
US09160601B2 Frame structure for a QAM system
A novel framing method for a variable net bit rate digital communications system that utilizes a set of different QAM constellations and punctured trellis code combinations, each combination designated as a mode. This frame structure has a variable integral number of QAM symbols per frame depending on the selected mode, but the number of bytes and Reed-Solomon packets per frame is constant. This is achieved even though the number of data bits per QAM symbol for some modes is fractional. Also the number of trellis coder puncture pattern cycles per frame is an integer for all modes. This arrangement simplifies the synchronization of receiver processing blocks such as the Viterbi decoder, de-randomizer, byte de-interleaver, and Reed-Solomon decoder.
US09160596B2 Transmission and reception signal processor and method
A transmission apparatus includes a plurality of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) modulation signal generators, which generate a first OFDM modulation signal and a second OFDM modulation signal. The transmission apparatus also includes a transmitter that transmits the first OFDM modulation signal from a first antenna and the second OFDM modulation signal from a second antenna, in an identical frequency band. A reception apparatus is provided, which includes a plurality of antennas that receive a plurality of OFDM modulation signals; a plurality of OFDM demodulators that transform the plurality of OFDM modulation signals to a plurality of reception signals using Fourier transform; an estimator that outputs a distortion estimation signal using one or more symbols for demodulation included in the plurality of reception signals; and a demodulator that compensates for distortion of the reception signals using the distortion estimation signal and demodulates a data symbol included in the reception signals.
US09160595B2 Techniques to manage dwell times for pilot rotation
Techniques to manage dwell times for pilot rotation are described. An apparatus may comprise a memory configured to store a data structure with a set of modulation and coding schemes (MCS) available to an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system, each MCS having an associated pilot dwell time. The apparatus may further comprise a processor circuit coupled to the memory, the processor circuit configured to identify a MCS to communicate a packet using multiple subcarriers of the OFDM system, and retrieve a pilot dwell time associated with the MCS from the memory, the pilot dwell time to indicate when to shift a pilot tone between subcarriers of the multiple subcarriers during communication of the packet. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
US09160587B2 Channel tracking in an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing system
A receiver determines phase and frequency information from data signals that carry information from a transmitter to a receiver, instead of or in addition to, information from control signals. In a specific embodiment, the information is obtained from data signals modulated as a binary phase-shift keying (“BPSK”) waveform by demodulation. Other phase-shift keyings might be used instead. Encoded information might be recovered in received OFDM packets by receiving OFDM subcarriers modulated with the two low data rates supported by IEEE 802.11 standard(s) wherein the subcarriers encoding the packet are modulated using binary phase shift keying and the encoding information is at a zero phase or a π (pi) phase offset on each of the subcarriers. Determining the carrier frequency might be done by calculating the square of each of subcarrier signal and/or determining the phase offset of the subcarriers even with information modulated onto the subcarriers.
US09160581B2 Receiver with Doppler tolerant equalization
A mobile communication device to equalize a Doppler shifted received signal according to one embodiment is configured to: extract one or more pilot signals from a segment of the received signal; perform Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) filtering on the extracted pilot signals, wherein the filter provides estimated pilot signal impulse responses; estimate the amplitudes of one or more path components of the estimated pilot signal impulse responses; estimate the phases of one or more path components of the estimated pilot signal impulse responses; and combine the estimated amplitudes and the estimated phases of the path components of the pilot signal impulse responses, wherein the combination provides an estimated channel impulse response.
US09160578B2 Turbo equalisation
A receiver (200) for receiving for receiving encoded data transmitted simultaneously as a plurality of M different sequences of transmitted symbols from different transmit antennas using a plurality of m modulation levels, where M and m are integers and each of the transmitted symbols represents a plurality of bits of the encoded data, comprises a demodulator (210) arranged to provide N received symbol combinations by receiving at a plurality of N receive antennas (202, 204), where N is an integer, the plurality of M different sequences of transmitted symbols, wherein each received symbol combination comprises M simultaneously received ones of the transmitted symbols. An equalizer (230) is arranged to generate from the N received symbol combinations M pre-processed signals by performing interference cancellation, in which interference cancellation a different symbol of the respective received symbol combination is a wanted signal and the other symbols of the respective received symbol combination are interfering signals. The equalizer (230) is also arranged to generate from each of the M pre-processed signals a list of up to m initial candidate symbol combinations by, for each of the up to m initial candidate symbol combinations, selecting a first initial symbol indicative of a different one of the m modulation levels and selecting M−1 further initial symbols. The equalizer (230) is further arranged to generate from the lists of initial candidate symbol combinations an initial estimate of the transmitted symbols. A decoder (260) is arranged to decode bits represented by the initial estimate of the transmitted symbols.
US09160565B2 Fragmentation of link layer discovery protocol packets
Described are methods of communicating network device information between network devices. A communication is established between a first network device and a second network device according to a link layer discovery protocol (LLDP). The method further comprises an LLDP advertisement message is output in the communication from the second network device to the first network device. The first network device determines whether the second network device processes fragmented packets by searching the LLDP advertisement message for a fragmentation time length value (TLV) field. The second network device outputs to the first network device a plurality of packet fragments in response to a determination that the LLDP advertisement message includes the fragmentation TLV field.
US09160564B2 Spanning tree protocol for hybrid networks
A hybrid STP can be implemented in a hybrid communication network to prevent communication loops without disabling network interfaces of hybrid devices and redundant paths of the hybrid communication network, while preserving the advantages of the hybrid communication network. Each network interface of a hybrid device can be designated as a relay interface or a non-relay interface. Each of the relay interfaces is independent of the other network interfaces of the hybrid device. The non-relay interfaces operate as a single virtual interface and do not forward packets between each other. Each network interface of the hybrid device may also be associated with a forwarding bit that indicates whether broadcast packets should be forwarded via the network interface. The hybrid device can determine whether/how to forward a packet depending on whether an ingress interface is a relay or non-relay interface and a forwarding bit value of the ingress interface.
US09160559B2 System and method to address devices connected to a bus system
A system includes a bus system, such as a LIN bus system. A number of components are connected to the bus system. A first component of the components is configured to detect a direction of a current to detect a location of the first component in the bus system. Each of the components can have a unique address.
US09160548B2 Mining of user event data to identify users with common interests
A computer-implemented matching service matches users to other users, and/or to user communities, based at least in part on a computer analysis of event data reflective of user behaviors. The event data may, for example, evidence user affinities for particular items represented in an electronic catalog, such as book titles, music titles, movie titles, and/or other types of items that tend to reflect the traits of users. Event data reflective of other types of user actions, such as item-detail-page viewing events, browse node visits, search query submissions, and/or web browsing patterns may additionally or alternatively be considered. By taking such event data into consideration, the matching service reduces the burden on users to explicitly supply personal profile information, and reduces poor results caused by exaggerations and other inaccuracies in such profile information.
US09160537B2 Methods for secure restoration of personal identity credentials into electronic devices
A method and system for securely enrolling personal identity credentials into personal identification devices. The system of the invention comprises the manufacturer of the device and an enrollment authority. The manufacturer is responsible for recording serial numbers or another unique identifier for each device that it produces, along with a self-generated public key for each device. The enrollment authority is recognized by the manufacturer or another suitable institution as capable of validating an individual before enrolling him into the device. The enrollment authority maintains and operates the appropriate equipment for enrollment, and provides its approval of the enrollment. The methods described herein discuss post-manufacturing, enrollment, backup, and recovery processes for the device.
US09160536B2 Verification of authenticity and responsiveness of biometric evidence and/or other evidence
Authenticity and responsiveness of evidence (e.g., biometric evidence) may be validated without regard for whether there is direct control over a sensor that acquired the evidence. In some implementations, only a data block containing evidence that is (1) appended with a server-generated challenge (e.g., a nonce) and (2) signed or encrypted by the sensor may validate that the evidence is responsive to a current request and belongs to a current session. In some implementations, trust may be established and/or enhanced due to one or more security features (e.g., anti-spoofing, anti-tampering, and/or other security features) being collocated with the sensor at the actual sampling site.
US09160532B2 Dynamic seed and key generation from biometric indicia
A system, a method, and a computer program for generating a seed and/or a key from live biometric indicia, such that all the information necessary for generating the seed and/or the key is not stored on a storage medium. The method comprises receiving a biometric template from a user and enrolling the template; assigning an optimization value to the enrolled biometric template; encrypting an item of test data using the optimization value, such that the optimization value is an encryption seed; storing the encrypted item of test data on the storage medium; destroying the encryption seed after encrypting the item of test data; receiving a live biometric template; comparing the templates and determining an interval based on a probability that the templates are specific to the same user; iteratively testing values within the interval to identify the value in the interval for decrypting the encrypted item of test data, wherein the value used to decrypt the item of test data is the encryption seed; and generating the key using the seed.
US09160528B2 Distributed single sign on technologies including privacy protection and proactive updating
Technologies for distributed single sign-on operable to provide user access to a plurality of services via authentication to a single entity. The distributed single sign-on technologies provide a set of authentication servers and methods for privacy protection based on splitting secret, keys and user profiles into secure shares and periodically updating shares among the authentication servers without affecting the underlying secrets. The correctness of the received partial token or partial profiles can be verified with non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs.
US09160517B2 Method for transmitting/receiving signal and device therefor
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method for transmitting uplink control information and a device therefor, the method comprising the steps of: forming a plurality of serving cells each having different UL-DL configurations; receiving one or more signals requiring a HARQ-ACK response from M(M≧1) number of subframes; and executing the process for transmitting the HARQ-ACK response to the one or more signals in a specific subframe corresponding to the M number of subframes, wherein, only when the specific subframe is set as an uplink in all of the plurality of serving cells, the HARQ-ACK response to the one or more signals are transmitted through the specific subframe.
US09160513B2 Method and apparatus for signaling control data of aggregated carriers
Techniques are provided for communicating control information for aggregated carriers. For example, a method includes receiving one or more assignments for a plurality of aggregated carriers. For example, the at least one of the plurality of aggregated carriers is a time division duplexing (TDD) carrier having a different subframe configuration than at least another one of the plurality of aggregated carriers. The method may include communicating control information for the plurality of aggregated carriers over one of the plurality of aggregated carriers.
US09160512B2 Semi-persistent scheduling method and apparatus
A method provided in the present application for implementing a semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) includes: a user equipment (UE) determining an Multimedia Broadcast multicast service Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) subframe; and the UE receiving an SPS transmission data packet in the MBSFN subframe, in order to achieve semi-persistent scheduling via a MBSFN subframe.
US09160511B2 Cyclic prefix in evolved multimedia broadcast multicast service with high transmit power
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided in which a cyclic prefix duration for orthogonal frequency division multiple access symbols is determined. The cyclic prefix duration is calculated to reduce inter-symbol interference associated with a transmitter located at a distance that is more than 5 kilometers from one or more user equipment. Subcarrier spacing is determined and a symbol size for the symbols is determined. One or more of an enhanced Node B and a user equipment is configured with the cyclic prefix duration, the subcarrier spacing and the symbol size.
US09160509B2 Method and apparatus for transmitting SRS in LTE TDD system
A method and apparatus are provided for transmitting and receiving an SRS. The method includes determining a number of single-carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) symbols in an uplink pilot time slot (UpPTS); receiving index information for an SRS; determining an SRS offset, based on the index information; and transmitting the SRS, based on the SRS offset. If the index information includes an integer from 0 to 9, if the UpPTS includes two SC-FDMA symbols, a first symbol is indicated by SRS offset 0 and a second symbol is indicated by SRS offset 1, if the UpPTS includes one SC-FDMA symbol, the first symbol is indicated by the SRS offset 1. If the index information includes the integer from 0 to 9, the SRS is transmitted twice in a period of 5 ms and the SRS offset indicated by the index information is based on an offset index table.
US09160504B2 System and method for signaling and transmitting uplink reference signals
A system and method for signaling and transmitting uplink reference signals are provided. A method for communications controller operations includes signaling information about a set of sequence groups to a first communications device, where the first communications device uses a sequence in the set of sequence groups to modulate a reference signal. The method also includes selecting a sequence group from the set of sequence groups and signaling information about the selected sequence group to the first communications device.
US09160495B2 System and methods for transmitting data
A system and method for transmitting data over a channel, in which the data are categorized in at least two different categories. For example, the data are categorized according to the effect on perceived degradation on the data when error mitigation is performed on the data. Corrupted data of the first category are replaced using a first replacement method, such as retransmission and forward error correction. The corrupted data of the second category are replaced using a second replacement method different from the first replacement method, e.g., error mitigation or interpolation.
US09160493B2 Method and apparatus for transmitting ACK/NACK
The present invention is directed to a wireless communication system. Particularly, the present invention is directed to a method and an apparatus of transmitting an ACK/NACK (acknowledgement/negative ACK) signal by a user equipment in a wireless communication system, which includes receiving a plurality of data units from a base station, bundling ACK/NACK results for a plurality of the data units per time or frequency interval to obtain at least one bundled ACK/NACK result, performing ACK/NACK multiplexing over the at least one ACK/NACK result to determine an uplink resource for ACK/NACK transmission and a bit sequence, and transmitting the bit sequence to the base station via the uplink resource for the ACK/NACK transmission.
US09160492B2 Method and apparatus for combining space-frequency block coding spatial multiplexing and beamforming in a MIMO-OFDM system
A method and apparatus for combining space-frequency block coding (SFBC) and frequency shift transmit diversity (FSTD) in a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) system.
US09160489B1 Origin dodging for transmitted signal
Systems and methods associated with origin dodging for a transmitted signal are described. One method includes receiving a transmission sequence for transmission to a receiver. The transmission sequence includes a sequence of transmit symbols and each transmit symbol corresponds to a coordinate pair positioning the transmit symbol's phase on an I-Q plane. The method includes sampling and filtering the transmission sequence to create transition samples and determining whether any transition sample is within a predetermined radius of an origin of the I-Q plane. When a transition sample is positioned within the radius, the method includes generating a dodging symbol and inserting the dodging symbol into the transmission sequence to create a modified transmission sequence. A filtered signal that includes filtered samples of the modified transmission sequence is provided.
US09160488B2 Apparatus and method for compensating output signals of magnetic encoder using digital phase-locked loop
An apparatus and method for compensating output signals of a magnetic encoder are disclosed. The apparatus includes a pre-calibration unit, an advanced phase detector, a loop filter, a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), and a pulse generator. The pre-calibration unit obtains two phase-compensated waveforms through trigonometric function operations, and adjusts the amplitudes of the two phase-compensated waveforms to the same value, thereby generating input sine and cosine waves. The advanced phase detector generates an error output signal through trigonometric function operations. The loop filter sets the filter transfer function of an active lead-lag filter, and then filters the error output signal. The VCO generates a compensated signal. The pulse generator outputs a phase index, and generates two output pulses having a phase difference of 90 degrees in accordance with a pulse generation rule of a look-up table.
US09160486B2 Method and apparatus for multiplexing control information and data, and for transmitting the multiplexed control information and data in a MIMO wireless communication system
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for transmitting uplink control information in a wireless communication system. A method for multiplexing uplink control information and uplink data and for transmitting the multiplexed uplink control information and uplink data according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises the following steps: encoding a first transmission block and a second transmission block to generate a first codeword and a second codeword; mapping the first codeword and the second codeword to one or more layers, respectively; and transmitting, via one or more antenna ports, each layer to which the first codeword and the second codeword are mapped, wherein the uplink control information is multiplexed only to either the first transmission block or to the second transmission block.
US09160479B2 Client signal mapping circuit and mapping method
A client signal mapping circuit for accommodating a client signal in a transmission frame, including: a buffer unit configured to temporarily store the client signal; a buffer used amount monitoring unit configured to report a used amount of the buffer unit; a stuff processing determination unit configured to compare the used amount of the buffer unit with a predetermined reference value, and a pseudo random sequence signal and the comparison result; an overhead insertion unit configured to add an overhead to the client signal read from the buffer unit to form a transmission frame; and a reading control unit configured to perform control for reading the client signal from the buffer unit based on determination by the stuff processing determination unit.
US09160475B2 Method of handling HARQ resource in TDD system and related communication device
A method of determining HARQ resource of a UL subframe comprises determining a first new association set of the UL subframe according to an association set of the UL subframe of a first UL/DL configuration of a legacy communication device; replacing a subset of the first new association set by a subset of an association set of the UL subframe of a second UL/DL configuration of an advanced communication device, when the legacy communication device is not able to perform a reception in at least one subframe corresponding to the subset of the first new association set; configuring a mapping between at least one sequence index of the UL subframe of the first UL/DL configuration and the first new association set according to the first UL/DL configuration; and determining the HARQ resource of the UL subframe according to the mapping and the first new association set.
US09160474B2 Method and apparatus for designing network
A network design method that determines a TDM transmission line for accommodating a given demand includes: extracting an available demand from among a plurality of provided demands; calculating a total bandwidth of the extracted available demand; sequentially selecting the plurality of demands; generating candidates for a combination of TDM transmission lines that accommodate the selected demand; and determining a combination of TDM transmission lines that accommodates the selected demand from among the candidates for the combination of TDM transmission lines. The generating process includes: extracting a TDM transmission line with a band utilization efficiency higher than a specified threshold from among TDM transmission lines including the selected demand as an available demand; and generating candidates for a combination of TDM transmission lines that accommodate the selected demand using the extracted TDM transmission line.
US09160473B2 Asymmetry correction for precise clock synchronization over optical fiber
A clock at a first network element that is connected to a second network element over an optical fiber link is aligned in time/phase using packet protocols such as PTP. The invention discloses how to correct the asymmetry error inherent in traditional packet-based time-transfer methods.
US09160464B2 Operating multi-service receiver in non-interfering manner
A method for operating a receiver and a device are provided. The device comprises a first and a second antenna, a receiver operationally coupled to the first antenna and a transceiver operationally coupled to the second antenna. The receiver receives information in bursts on a first band of radio frequencies. A controller of the device measures signal strength of the information received with the receiver, compares the measured signal strength to a reference value and enables operation of the transceiver if the measured signal strength is above the reference value, and limits operation of the transceiver during reception of the bursts if the measured signal strength is below the reference value.
US09160452B2 Apparatus for modular implementation of multi-function active optical cables
Apparatus enabling modular implementation of active optical cable (AOC) with multiple integrated functions including: integration of different types of data on the AOC via media conversion; distribution of electrical power over the AOC; electrical multiplexing data channels for optical fibers; integration of voltage regulators enabling AOC operation at different supply voltages; integration of voltage regulators to provide stable, low noise power source; ruggedized, blind-mateable electrical connectors; integration of electronics and optoelectronics inside a connector backshell; implementation of health monitoring and test channel enabling monitoring, test, and control of both ends of the AOC and monitoring and control of upstream systems and components; and enabling a form, fit, function replacement of existing electrical cables to improve SWaP, electromagnetic interference resiliency, length-bandwidth product, electromagnetic pulse resistance, signal integrity, system reliability, testability and maintenance. AOCs are customized for different connectors, pin-outs, electrical data combinations, power distribution and power supplies with minimal redesign/requalification.
US09160446B2 Method for supporting SNCP over packet network
A method is presented for supporting SNCP over a packet network connecting to two SDH sub-networks and transporting one or more SDH paths that are SNCP-protected in both SDH sub-networks. The packet network connects to each of two sub-network interconnection points by a working path and a protection path. The packet sub-network may provide the same type of path protection as an SDH sub-network using SNCP, while avoiding bandwidth duplication.
US09160444B2 Wireless communication
The invention is directed to a method of synchronizing transmission between two nodes in a wireless network. The method comprises the steps of obtaining an expected interference profile for each node; and agreeing a synchronized transmission schedule between the nodes, where the expected interference profile of the or each node meets predetermined criteria.
US09160440B1 Method for coding-based, delay-efficient data transmission
A method, apparatus and computer program product for -based, delay-efficient data transmission for broadcasting a single file is presented. A file (f) comprised of K packets to be broadcast to a plurality of receivers is determined. A plurality of packets (Pk) of the file are selected for transmission during a timeslot (t). Next, a linear combination of the selected packets (P[t]) are produced, the linear combination of packets are selected at random within the file. The linear combination of selected packets is then transmitted to a plurality of receivers over unreliable channels.
US09160434B2 RF transceiver with beamforming antenna and methods for use therewith
An RF transceiver includes a configuration controller that generates a control signal to select a first candidate radiation pattern for a beamforming antenna based on a first plurality of steering weights. An RF transceiver section broadcasts a first beacon transmission with the first candidate radiation pattern, and generates feedback signals to indicate if a first remote station has responded to the first beacon transmission. When the first remote station has responded to the first beacon transmission, the configuration controller stores the first plurality of steering weights used in association with the beacon transmission and generates control signals to the RF transceiver section to use the first candidate radiation pattern when communicating with the first remote station.
US09160429B2 Method for generating reference signal sequence in multi-antenna wireless communication system and apparatus for same
The present application discloses a method in which a base station transmits a reference signal sequence in a wireless communication system. In detail, the method comprises the steps of: generating a pseudo-random sequence using a first m-sequence and a second m-sequence; generating the reference signal sequence using the pseudo-random sequence; and transmitting the reference signal to a mobile station via antenna ports different from one another. The second m-sequence has an initial value containing parameters for discriminating reference signal sequences among users.
US09160426B2 Cooperative communication method in cellular wireless communication system and terminal for performing the method
Provided is a coordinated communication method in which a plurality of cells cooperate to perform multi-antenna transmission and reception in a cellular wireless communication system. A terminal wirelessly transmits channel state information (CSI) feedback to a serving cell and at least one coordinating cell. The serving cell and the coordinating cell perform multi-point coordinated communication using the CSI feedback. Even if the serving cell and the coordinating cell belong to different base stations, information exchange between the cells is minimized, so that a transmission delay and a traffic increment of a backhaul network can be prevented.
US09160420B2 System and method of wireless communication between devices and a communications network
A wireless media player and a related system and methodology are disclosed. One aspect of the wireless media player system pertains to a virtual connector system, apparatus, and method for the automatic establishment of wireless connectivity with other electronic devices. In one embodiment, the media player device employs the use of integrated Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to exchange communication settings, media capability, and other parameters with an external device that also has integrated RFID technology. The automatic exchange of settings and other information via a proximity-based RFID data exchange allows a media player to quickly establish a secure communication link with another device via a commonly supported wireless protocol such as Ultra Wideband (UWB) or Bluetooth. Another aspect of the media player system pertains to a method of using the captured media capability of the connecting device to customize certain menu options and software parameters in the media player.
US09160415B2 Open-loop frequency lock methods for fast boot-up time
A method for a near field communication circuit includes entering a low power mode and subsequently determining to exit the low power mode. The method further includes generating an open loop clock signal and providing the open loop clock signal to circuits of the near field communication circuit during a low power mode exit duration. Subsequently a reference clock signal is received from a host and used to clock the near field communication circuit.
US09160402B2 Transmission method, transmitter, reception method, and receiver
Provided is a transmission method that converts an encoded block of data into first complex symbols each including a real component and an imaginary component, one or which is designated as a first component and the other as a second component; writes the first components and the second components of the first complex symbols respectively column by column into a first interleaver matrix and a second interleaver matrix having NR rows; applies a cyclic shift to each column of the second interleaver matrix in accordance with a predetermined shift pattern; and reads the first components from the first interleaver matrix and the second components from the cyclically shifted second interleaver matrix row by row. NR is a multiple of NRF greater than NRF (NRF being an integer greater than one), and the shift pattern for the cyclic shift includes only integers that are not a multiple of NRF.
US09160399B2 System and apparatus for decoding tree-based messages
A system and techniques for decoding a message received over a communication channel comprises a receiver for receiving an encoded message. A sorting module is configured to organize candidate messages into a number of bins, sort the candidate messages within each bin, and output a group of candidate messages, the group comprising a number of most likely candidate messages from each message bin. A traceback module is configured to receive the most likely candidate message, and to walk through the tree of candidate messages to generate a decoded message.
US09160384B2 Filter having signal detection function
A filter includes a base and a sidewall extending from the base. The base and the sidewall cooperatively define a cavity. The filter further includes a signal input unit, and a signal output unit having a signal output port. The signal output port is located on the sidewall and extends outside of the cavity. The signal output port is connected to a conductive post received within the cavity. The conductive post collects radio signals and outputs the collected radio signals via the signal output port. The signal output unit further includes a signal detection module. The signal detection module includes a coupling plate, a coupling signal output terminal, and a probe. The coupling plate is electrically connected to the probe. The probe is located adjacent to the conductive post to receive radio signals surrounding the conductive post and output the received radio signals via the coupling output terminal.
US09160383B2 Method for estimating covariance matrices and use thereof
The present disclosure relates to an iterative method for estimating covariance matrices of communication signals comprising a) computing a reference symbol covariance matrix estimate (k,l); b) inputting said reference symbol covariance matrix estimate (k,l) to a detector or a decoder in a first iteration, and thereafter inputting the covariance matrix estimate output from e) to the detector or the decoder in subsequent iterations to obtain an updated demodulated or decoded communication signal for each iteration; c) inputting the demodulated or decoded communication signal to a symbol generator; d) computing an updated data covariance matrix estimate (k,l) for each iteration based on data symbols of said regenerated communication signal; e) combining said reference symbol covariance matrix estimate (k,l) and said updated data covariance matrix estimate (k,l); and f) forwarding said covariance matrix estimate output to the detector or decoder in b) to obtain the updated demodulated or decoded communication signal for each iteration.
US09160380B2 Transmission circuit, communication system and transmission method
Provided is a transmission circuit that includes first and second drive circuits. A first digital signal at a data rate of a predetermined period length is input to the first drive circuit. A second digital signal at the data rate of the predetermined period length shifted by ½ of the predetermined period length relative to the first digital signal is input to second drive circuit. The outputs of the first drive circuit and the second drive circuit are connected. The connected output indicates the maximum level or the minimum level when the value of the first digital signal and the value of the second digital signal are the same. The connected output indicates a level between the maximum level and the minimum level when the value of the first digital signal and the value of the second digital signal are different.
US09160376B1 Programmable stabilization network
The present disclosure includes programmable stabilization circuits and methods. In one embodiment, a power amplifier in a wireless transmitter includes a transistor comprising a gate, a source, and a drain. Feedback from the drain to the gate is modified dynamically to stabilize the amplifier under changing operating conditions. In one embodiment, a series RC circuit is configured between the drain the gate and the RC circuit value is adjusted based on different power supply voltage modes.
US09160375B2 Apparatus and method for gain of driver amplifier exponential variable in wireless transmitter
An apparatus and a method for exponentially controlling a gain of a driver amplifier to drive a power amplifier are provided. The driver amplifier includes a plurality of cascode amplifier segments, wherein when a plurality of candidate gain values of the driver amplifier is arranged, the candidate gain values form a geometric sequence. A unit cost can be reduced by halving an area occupied by the driver amplifier.
US09160370B2 Single component correcting ECC using a reducible polynomial with GF(2) coefficients
A memory system is described that provides error detection and correction after a failure of a memory component. Each block of data in the memory system includes an array of bits logically organized into R rows and C columns, including C-2 data-bit columns containing data bits, a row check bit column including row-parity bits for each of the R rows in the block, and an inner check bit column including X inner check bits. The inner check bits are defined to cover bits in the array according to a set of check vectors, wherein each check vector is associated with a different bit in the array and is an element of Res(P), a residue system. Moreover, each column is stored in a different memory component, and the check bits are generated from the data bits to provide block-level detection and correction for both memory errors and a failed memory component.
US09160367B2 Integrated-interleaved low density parity check (LDPC) codes
Methods and apparatus are provided for integrated-interleaved Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) coding and decoding. Integrated-interleaved LDPC encoding is performed by obtaining at least a first data element and a second data element; systematically encoding the at least first data element using a submatrix H0 of a sparse parity check matrix H1 to obtain at least a first codeword; truncating the at least first data element to obtain at least a first truncated data element; systematically encoding the at least second data element and the at least first truncated data element using the sparse parity check matrix H1 to obtain a nested codeword; and generating a second codeword based at least in part on a combination of the first codeword and the nested codeword. Integrated-interleaved LDPC decoding is also provided.
US09160364B1 Code word formatter of shortened non-binary linear error correction code
Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with an iterative decoder logic. In one embodiment, the iterative decoder logic is configured to decode data. The iterative decoder logic includes a detector configured to generate code words from the data and identify short code words. A short code word has a length less than a length of a full code word. The iterative decoder logic also includes a decoder having a shortening support module and a decoder core. The shortening support module appends at least one dummy value to at least one short code word to convert the at least one short code word to a full code word. The decoder core decodes the converted full code word to generate a decoded converted full code word. The decoder transmits the decoded converted full code word without the at least one dummy variable.
US09160362B1 Lempel-Ziv (LZ)-based data compression employing implicit variable-length distance coding
Lempel-Ziv (LZ)-based data compression employing implicit variable-length distance coding is disclosed. Distances in LZ-based data compression length and distance blocks are implicit variable-length encoded during data compression to avoid padding encoded distances with extra bits (e.g., trailing 0's) that require fewer bits for storage than the number of bits needed to store maximum distance length. This reduces distance bit lengths in compressed output data to further reduce data size. During data compression, a distance table is generated that contains entries each having an assigned base and a number of extra bits to be read in compressed data during data decompression. In this manner, during data decompression, the entries in the distance table can be consulted to determine the number of bits in the variable-encoded distance in the compressed data to be read since the encoded distances can be encoded in the compressed data in fewer bits and without bit padding.
US09160356B1 Analog to digital convertor and a method of calibrating same
An analog to digital convertor (ADC) comprises an integrator having an input selectively connected to an intermediate frequency (IF) signal input and an output connected to a summer. The summer has an output connected to an input of a quantizer, the quantizer output being operatively connected to a signal strength indicator. The integrator includes a programmable gain feedback component. The summer has a synthesized calibration signal input, the value of the programmable gain feedback component being configured to vary when a synthesized calibration signal at the intermediate frequency is applied to the summer. The signal strength indicator is configured to detect a value of the programmable gain feedback component when the signal strength is minimized and to calibrate the ADC accordingly.
US09160355B2 Printed circuit board and signal timing control method thereof
A printed circuit board includes a sending element, a plurality of receiving elements, and a control unit. The sending element is configured to generate a sending signal. The receiving elements are configured to receive a control signal respectively. The control unit is coupled to the sending element through a first wire and to the receiving elements through a plurality of second wires. The control unit is provided with a comparison table that stores related information of the second wires. When receiving the sending signal, the control unit generates the control signals according the related information of the second wires. At least one of the control signals is transmitted to the corresponding receiving element, and the rest of the control signals are delayed for a preset time and then transmitted to the rest of the receiving elements.
US09160348B2 Apparatus and method to update a default time interval based on process corner, temperature and voltage
A processor arrangement changes its default time interval for entering a power saving mode based on sensed operating conditions and predetermined time intervals to be used under various operating conditions to optimize power saving.
US09160346B2 Area and power efficient clock generation
Die-to-die interconnect structures are leveraged to form the inductive component of an LC oscillator, thus yielding an LC tank distributed across multiple IC dies rather than lumped in a single die. By this arrangement, reliance on area/power-consuming on-chip inductors may be reduced or eliminated, and phase-aligned clocks may be extracted from the LC tank within each of the spanned IC dies, obviating multiple oscillator instances or complex phase alignment circuitry.
US09160342B2 Non-binary decoder architecture and control signal logic for reduced circuit complexity
A decoder for sequentially enabling outputs in response to clock signal inputs is described including X number of logic stages corresponding to X number of outputs of the decoder. Each of the logic stages has a plurality of inputs, wherein each logic stage includes fewer than log2X inputs for receiving the clock signal inputs.
US09160341B2 Efficient resource state distillation
Systems and methods are provided for generating at least one high fidelity resource state. A classical code and punctured to provide a first set of generators and a second set of generators. The first set of generators is mapped to a set of stabilizer generators, and the second set of generators is mapped to a set of logical operators. A set of resource states are prepared in physical qubits. A decoding process is performed on the resource states according to a quantum code represented by the set of stabilizer generators and the set of logical operators, and qubits corresponding to the stabilizers are measured.
US09160335B2 Semiconductor apparatus and reduced current and power consumption
A semiconductor apparatus may include a mode control circuit configured to output differential output signals which swing in a current mode logic (CML) area and a first control signal, in response to a power-down mode signal; a first circuit unit configured to be provided with the differential output signals, and operate in a power-down mode; and a second circuit unit configured to be provided with the differential output signals, and be interrupted in its operation in the power-down mode.
US09160331B2 Capacitive and inductive sensing
In one embodiment, a method includes in an inductive-sensing mode, by a controller, applying an alternating-current (AC) signal on a first electrode of a capacitive touch sensor. The capacitive touch sensor is configured to operate in the inductive-sensing mode and a capacitive-sensing mode. The method also includes sensing a signal indicative of a magnetic field on the first electrode. The signal is due at least in part to a magnetic field generated by the object and the magnetic field is generated at least in part in response to the AC signal applied on the first electrode. The method also includes determining a position of the object generating the magnetic field based on the signal indicative of the magnetic field.
US09160329B2 Circuit control device
A circuit control device controlling a switching circuit which has a semiconductor switching element, having a main controller, a drive signal output portion and an obtaining portion. The main controller outputs a drive control signal. The drive signal output portion receives the drive control signal and outputs a drive signal to the switching element, the switching element acting on the basis of the drive signal. The obtaining portion obtains circuit information on status of the switching circuit in synchronization with the drive control signal.
US09160328B2 Circuits, devices, methods and applications related to silicon-on-insulator based radio-frequency switches
Radio-frequency (RF) switch circuits are disclosed providing improved switching performance. An RF switch system includes a plurality of field-effect transistors (FETs) connected in series between first and second nodes, each FET having a gate and a body. A compensation network including a gate-coupling circuit couples the gates of each pair of neighboring FETs. The compensation network may further including a body-coupling circuit that couples the bodies of each pair of neighboring FETs.
US09160322B2 Clock edge detection device and method
The present invention discloses a clock edge detection device capable of detecting the positive and negative edges of a target clock, comprising: a delay circuit for receiving the target clock and transmitting it; a register circuit coupled to the delay circuit for recording and outputting plural target clock levels in accordance with a working clock; a positive edge detection circuit including a plurality of positive edge detectors coupled to the register circuit for detecting the positive edge of the target clock; and a negative edge detection circuit including a plurality of negative edge detectors coupled to the register circuit for detecting the negative edge of the target clock, wherein the positive edge detection circuit is operable to perform a logic operation to the target clock levels while the negative edge detection circuit is operable to perform a different logic operation to the target clock levels.
US09160319B2 DA converter, solid-state imaging device, driving method of solid-state imaging device, and electronic apparatus having a cascade transistor group switch section selecting one of a plurality of cascade transistor groups according to gain setting value set to a current generation section
Disclosed is a digital-analog converter including a current generation section, a current source transistor bias voltage keeping section, a cascade transistor group switch section, and a conversion section. The current generation section has at least one current source transistor group including a plurality of current source transistors and generates an output current based on a value of a digital input signal. The current source transistor bias voltage keeping section has a plurality of cascade transistor groups each including cascade transistors connected in series to the current source transistors and keeps bias voltages of the current source transistors constant. The cascade transistor group switch section selects one of the plurality of cascade transistor groups. The conversion section performs current-voltage conversion of the output current supplied via the selected cascade transistor group.