Document Document Title
US09266256B2 Cutter blade driving and positioning control structure for plastic pelletizing machine
A cutter blade driving and positioning control structure formed of a rotary drive, a transmission unit, a sliding unit, a linear motor and a cutter unit and used in a plastic pelletizing machine for making plastic pellets is disclosed. The rotary drive provides a rotary driving force for driving the transmission unit to rotate the cutter unit. The linear motor is adapted to reciprocate the transmission unit, moving the cutter unit back and forth rapidly with minimized energy consumption.
US09266248B2 Multiple tool
A multiple tool is provided for a punching device. The multiple tool includes a driving mechanism, displaceable in a punching direction, with a driving head for driving the driving mechanism by the punching device and a driving body connected to the driving head. The multiple tool further includes a punching tool magazine, which is connected to the driving mechanism, with a guide body, and a plurality of punching tools guided in the guide body. The punching tools in each case have an effective punching length for punching a workpiece to be machined. The driving body cooperates in each case, during punching use, with one of the punching tools to drive it. The multiple tool also includes a mechanical punching length testing mechanism to test the effective punching length of the punching tools.
US09266241B2 Robotic work object cell calibration system
The robotic work object cell calibration system includes a work object. The work object emits a pair of beam-projecting lasers acting as a crosshair, intersecting at a tool contact point (TCP). The work object emits four plane-projecting lasers are used to adjust the yaw, pitch, and roll of the robot tool relative to the tool contact point (TCP). The robotic work object cell calibration system provides a calibration system which is simpler, which involves a lower investment cost, which entails lower operating costs than the prior art, and can be used for different robot tools on a shop floor without having to perform a recalibration for each robot tool.
US09266224B2 Vacuum hole array
A vacuum hole array including a dense array of vacuum holes and a sparse array of vacuum holes.
US09266220B2 Abrasive articles and method of forming same
An abrasive article including a bonded abrasive body having a bond material made of a vitrified material, abrasive particles comprising a first type of superabrasive material contained in the bond material, a porosity of at least about 50 vol % of the total volume of the bonded abrasive body, and a ΔCTE of not greater than about 5.5 ppm/° C., wherein ΔCTE is defined as a difference between a CTE of the bond material and a CTE of the abrasive particles.
US09266215B2 Method of double-side polishing wafer
The present invention provides method of double-side polishing a wafer, including: simultaneously polishing both surfaces of the wafer by holding the wafer in a holding hole of a carrier, interposing the held wafer between upper and lower turn tables to which polishing pads are attached, rotating the carrier about an axis of the carrier and revolving the carrier; and repeating the polishing in a batch manner, wherein a direction in which the carrier is revolved is reversed every polishing batch while repeating the polishing in a batch manner. The method enables wafers with high flatness to be stably obtained while inhibiting reduction in productivity due to dressing.
US09266211B2 Method and apparatus for smoothing welded member
A smoothing method and a smoothing apparatus has been achieved, which make it possible to automate smoothing of welded members that was formerly carried out manually.The method according to the present invention uses a belt grinding apparatus, which includes an endless grinding belt and a press pad that presses the grinding belt against a welded area, and uses this belt grinding apparatus in two different modes after obtaining information on heights of surfaces of two welded members along a weld bead of the two welded members. The first mode corresponds to a bead removing step in which the grinding belt is pressed against a welded area by the press pad to reduce the height of the weld bead. At this time, the grinding belt is made to run at a fixed position, while the press pad is made to move toward and away from the welded area (the surface thereof). The next mode corresponds to a smoothing step in which the grinding belt is made to run and pressed against the welded area by the press pad while being made to move along the surfaces of the two welded members to smooth the welded area.
US09266209B2 Thermal displacement correcting apparatus and method for a machine tool
A thermal displacement correcting apparatus includes a correction amount estimating device and a parameter automatic selecting device that, in a machine tool having two different sets of specifications that differ due to the presence/absence of a scale and different methods of measuring the lengths of a bed and a table, estimate a thermal displacement correction amount of the machine tool of each set of specifications. The two devices store a collection of parameters for an estimated thermal displacement calculation corresponding to each of the bed, the scale, the table, and a workpiece, as a database, and select the parameters belonging to the set of specifications from the database based on machine information according to each set of specifications, calculate estimated thermal displacements of the bed, the table, and the workpiece, or also the scale, according to the selected parameters, and combine the estimated thermal displacements.
US09266207B2 Oblique-driven platform having three coplanar driving axes
The present invention relates to an oblique-driven platform having three coplanar driving axes, in which three oblique driving modules are disposed on an identical base, so as to drive a work platform to rotate and carry out 2-dimensional motion by the controlling of the three oblique driving modules. Thus, this design could solve the problems occurring in the conventional stacked machine tools; such as the deformation or the displacement of the sever axis or the rotation axis caused by the upper-layer machine tools. Moreover, by the disposing of the three oblique driving modules, the work platform can be driven to stably rotate and carry out 2-dimensional motion with high precision and high accuracy.
US09266206B2 Device for tempering a receptacle in a chamber
A device for tempering a receptacle in a chamber, including a cylindrical casing surrounding the chamber, a bottom, which is arranged on an end of the casing and is connected with it, an opening on an end of the casing opposite to the bottom, which is limited by a contact surface running parallel to the bottom, an annular sealing element, which has a sealing leg and a contact leg, which rests on the contact surface and an annular tensioning element, which, placed on the sealing element, lies on the sealing leg on its outside.
US09266204B2 Assembly machine for venting cap of disposable cell culture flask
An assembly machine for venting cap of disposable cell culture flask includes a rack, and an automatic controller and a rotating table arranged on the rack. An automatic loading mechanism, an automatic filter disc-sucking mechanism, an automatic heat-sealing mechanism, and an automatic unloading mechanism are all arranged above the rotating table. The automatic controller is electrically connected with the rotating table, the automatic loading mechanism, the automatic filter disc-sucking mechanism, the automatic heat-sealing mechanism, and the automatic unloading mechanism. By way of the automatic loading mechanism, the automatic filter disc-sucking mechanism, the automatic heat-sealing mechanism, and the automatic unloading mechanism as well as the automatic controller adapted thereto, the assembly machine can realize the automatic loading of the venting cap of disposable cell culture flask, the automatic placing of the filter disc, and the automatic heat-sealing of the venting cap of disposable cell culture flask and the filter disc, so that the automatic production of the venting cap of disposable cell culture flask can be realized.
US09266186B2 Apparatus and method of treating substrate
A substrate-treating apparatus includes a process chamber including a space therein, a lower electrode which is in the space of the process chamber and supports the substrate, an upper electrode which faces the lower electrode in the process chamber, a high frequency supply line which includes a feed point which applies a high frequency power to the lower electrode, and a modulator which asymmetrically supplies a dielectric substance to a lower portion of the lower electrode with reference to a center portion of the lower electrode.
US09266179B2 Method for dressing a tool
A method for dressing a tool of a gear grinding machine, including a workpiece holder and a tool holder, is provided. The tool holder, arranged on a machining head, is rotatable about a first axis of rotation, and is linearly movable via a first linear axis of movement, wherein a workpiece clamped in the workpiece holder can be machined by a tool clamped in the tool holder. The machine furthermore includes a dressing unit with a dressing tool holder rotatable about a second axis of rotation, wherein a dressing tool accommodated in the dressing tool holder is used for dressing the tool clamped in the tool holder. During the dressing operation the machining head is pivoted about the swivel axis in dependence on a tool profile and is linearly moved with the first linear axis of movement.
US09266176B2 Arrow shaft rotary cutting systems
Improved arrow shaft rotary cutting systems for home arrow makers. An arrow shaft rotary cutting system comprises a safety box configured to mount a rotary cutting tool and a means for holding each arrow shaft at a predetermined length while being cut by the blade of the rotary cutting tool. Various embodiments of novel safety boxes and novel end pieces are provided. Some embodiments use arrow shafts as system shafts that separate the safety box and the end piece. The cutting length is set to a predetermined length. Arrow shafts are cut to the predetermined length within the safety box. Other heavier duty embodiments, which include a clear safety shield, use angle iron to hold the end piece.
US09266173B2 Milling cutter for hard machining
The invention relates to a milling tool (1) having a length ltotal and diameter dtotal and having blades (2) for the milling of mostly metal workpieces. In order to prevent an uncontrolled failure of the milling tool, it is proposed that the blades (2) are partially or entirely made of polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PcBN) or polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and the diameter dtotal of the milling tool lies between 7 mm and 40 mm.
US09266151B2 Cleaning device resistant to liquid backsplash and cleaning system therewith
The present invention provides a cleaning device resistant to liquid backsplash comprises an upper casing and a lower casing. The upper casing moves upward and downward relative to the lower casing. The upper casing comprises an inner wall, an outer wall, and a hollow cavity formed therebetween. The inner wall is provided with a plurality of liquid inlet apertures which are communicated with the hollow cavity. Through the liquid inlet apertures and the hollow cavity provided in the cleaning device and the cleaning system of the present invention, the chemical liquids and/or particles used are introduced into the hollow cavity via the liquid inlet apertures and discharged via the liquid discharging apertures during the high speed rotation of the wafer so as to achieve better cleaning device.
US09266148B2 Method and apparatus for sorting
A method and apparatus for sorting objects is described, and which provides high-speed image data acquisition to fuse multiple data streams in real-time, while avoiding destructive interference when individual sensors or detectors are utilized in providing data regarding features of a product to be inspected.
US09266132B2 Method and bottle for dispensing a fluid product
A method of dispensing a fluid product by using a dispensing bottle which includes a rigid body in which a reservoir for packaging the fluid product is formed and a device for taking off the packaged fluid product that is mounted sealingly on the body, the body also being equipped with a valve for filling the reservoir, the method, prior to the initial filling of the reservoir with fluid product, making provision for putting the empty reservoir in communication with an air suction device and activating the device in order to create a negative pressure inside the reservoir; subsequently effecting the initial filling of the reservoir by putting a product source in sealed communication with the reservoir by means of the valve; dispensing the packaged fluid product by actuating the take-off device.
US09266126B2 Water spray plate
There is disclosed a water spray plate having micro-shower-holes formed therein to expand a passage area of liquid. The plurality of the shower hole arrays formed to unit sprayed liquids may be arranged and there may be an effect of enabling the user to feel that sufficient liquid is supplied even if a small amount of liquid is supplied. As a result, the substantial amount of the liquid used by the user may be reduced and there may be a water-saving effect.
US09266124B2 Sprayer nozzle cartridge
A sprayer nozzle cartridge for a sprayer nozzle apparatus of an agricultural sprayer is disclosed. The sprayer nozzle cartridge is adapted for coupling to a nozzle connector of the sprayer nozzle apparatus and for receiving a fluid from the sprayer nozzle apparatus. The sprayer nozzle apparatus includes an apparatus housing for supporting the nozzle connector and a control element configured to control fluid flow. The sprayer nozzle cartridge includes a cartridge housing. A plurality of nozzle tips having a plurality of flow paths are coupled to the cartridge housing. The control element selectively communicates fluid to at least one of the plurality of flow paths.
US09266122B2 Centrifugal separator having a feed accelerator
The centrifugal separator has a rotating bowl and a rotating conveyor with an acceleration chamber arranged coaxially within the bowl. The centrifugal separator further has a separation chamber, which is radially limited by the bowl and the conveyor, respectively, and the acceleration chamber is provided with feed ports for inlet of feed material into the separation chamber. A feed accelerator is arranged coaxially within the acceleration chamber and is rotating in use around a common axis of rotation relative to the conveyor at a lower speed than the conveyor. The feed accelerator has a discharge outlet for discharge of feed material into the acceleration chamber of the conveyor. The feed ports extend a first axial area and the discharge outlet extends a second axial area, whereby the first and the second axial area are overlapping.
US09266119B2 Method and apparatus for transporting magnetic fluids and particles
A method of transporting a magnetic fluid (104) or at least one magnetic particle (509, 510). The method comprises the steps of: providing a magnetic layer (102) with an asymmetric re-magnetization property; placing the magnetic fluid (104) or the magnetic particle(s) (509, 510) in the vicinity of the magnetic layer (102) so that they can magnetically interact with the magnetic layer (102); and applying an external magnetic field.
US09266111B2 Lifter bar assembly for a crushing mill and method of installation
A lifter bar assembly for a crushing mill is disclosed including: a plurality of lifter bar segments; the segments being arranged to be installed adjacent to one another to form a lifter bar; wherein each of the segments are of a weight which can be safely handled by a team of two people.
US09266109B2 Thermal control system and method for chemical and biochemical reactions
A system (20) for a PCR reaction includes an array of reaction vessels mounted on a thermal mount (21). The thermal mount (21) is provided with a liquid path therein coupled to a cooling liquid input port (22), a heating liquid input port (23) and a liquid output port (24). A pump (38) is used to pump liquid from cooling liquid source (29) either along a cooling liquid path (28) to the cooling liquid input port (22), or via a heating liquid source (31), where the liquid is heated, and along a heating liquid path (30) to the heating liquid input port (23). A temperature sensor (34) measures the temperature of the thermal mount (21) and a processor (27) controls the pump, valves (26) at the input and output ports and valves (41-44) at either side of the pump (38), to control whether heating or cooling liquid is input to the thermal mount, and at what flow rate, in order to obtain the correct temperature of the thermal block (21).
US09266108B2 Nanoliter array loading
An interface is provided for storing microfluidic samples in a nanoliter sample chip. A fluid access structure provides a fluid access region to a selected subset of sample wells from an array of sample wells. A fluid introduction mechanism introduces a sample fluid to the fluid access region so that the sample wells in the selected subset are populated with the sample fluid without the unselected sample wells being populated with the sample fluid.
US09266106B2 Micro-channel chip
A convenient technique allows detecting fluorescence emitted in the channel with a uniformly high detection sensitivity and a good reproducibility. On the front face side of a plate-like body 11, a groove-shaped introduction channel 12 and separation channel 14 are formed. In this micro-channel chip 10, on the inner faces of a groove constituting the separation channel 14 formed in a surface of the plate-like body 11, there is formed a fine particle layer 20 provided by sintering fine particles having an average particle diameter of 10 to 500 nm mainly composed of zinc oxide (ZnO) or titanium oxide (TiO2).
US09266105B2 System and method for forming bonded substrates
An apparatus for bonding two substrates includes a first roller, a second roller that forms a nip with the first roller, a substrate transport configured to move the first substrate and a second substrate through the nip simultaneously, and a controller. The controller operates the substrate transport to move the first substrate and the second substrate through the nip simultaneously, with a pattern of a hydrophobic material on a first side of the first substrate engaging a first side of the second substrate. The first substrate engages the first roller, which has a higher temperature than the second roller, and the hydrophobic material penetrates the first and second substrates to bond the substrates together.
US09266103B1 Catalyst regenerators and methods for regenerating catalysts
Catalyst regenerators and methods of their use are provided. A catalyst regenerator includes a combustion chamber with a combustion chamber diameter and a combustion chamber bottom. A mixing chamber is fluidly coupled to the combustion chamber at the combustion chamber bottom, where the mixing chamber has an exterior wall and a mixing chamber diameter less than the combustion chamber diameter. A first and second catalyst inlet are fluidly coupled to the mixing chamber, and a mixing cylinder is within the mixing chamber. The mixing cylinder and the exterior wall define an annular space there-between, and the mixing cylinder includes a cylinder opening.
US09266100B2 Pre-carburized molybdenum-modified zeolite catalyst and use thereof for the aromatization of lower alkanes
The present invention relates to a method for producing a zeolite catalyst useful for aromatization of a lower alkane, a zeolite catalyst useful for aromatization of a lower alkane obtainable by said method and a process for aromatization of a lower alkane using the zeolite catalyst of the present invention.
US09266094B2 Catalyst and method for producing aromatic amines in the gas phase
The present invention relates to a catalyst comprising a ceramic support with a BET surface area of less than 40 m2/g and (a) 1.0 to 100 g of at least one metal of groups 8 to 12 of the periodic table of the elements, (b) 1.0 g to 100 g of at least one metal of groups 4 to 6 and 12 of the periodic table of the elements and (c) 1.0 g to 100 g of at least one metal of groups 14 and 15 of the periodic table of the elements per liter of bulk volume of the ceramic support, wherein the catalyst is additionally doped with (d) potassium in a content of from 0.0050% by weight to 0.20% by weight, based on the total weight of the catalyst. The present invention also provides the use of such a catalyst in the catalytic gas phase hydrogenation of nitroaromatics.
US09266087B2 Synthesis and use of molecular sieve ITQ-32
The present invention relates to molecular sieves having the structure of ITQ-32 is synthesized from a reaction mixture substantially free of fluoride ions and comprising 4,4-dimethyl, 1-cyclohexyl-piperazinium cations in its pore structure, as well as methods of making such molecular sieves and methods of using them.
US09266083B2 Apparatuses for stripping gaseous hydrocarbons from particulate material and processes for the same
Apparatuses and processes are provided for stripping gaseous hydrocarbons from particulate material. One process comprises the step of contacting particles that contain hydrocarbons with a stripping vapor in countercurrent flow to remove at least a portion of the hydrocarbons with the stripping vapor to form stripped particles. Contacting the particles includes advancing the particles down a sloping element of a structured packing toward a reinforcing rod that is disposed adjacent to a lower section of the sloping element. The particles are advanced down through an opening formed in the sloping element proximate the reinforcing rod. The particles are contacted with the stripping vapor that is rising up through the opening.
US09266082B2 Process for increasing the efficiency of heat removal from a Fischer-Tropsch slurry reactor
The present invention is directed to a cooling system for removing heat from a Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) slurry reactor. The cooling system including a downcomer disposed within the F-T reactor to deliver a coolant downward through the F-T reactor at a predetermined velocity. The downcomer and the pressure of the introduced coolant cooperate to increase the coolant velocity, thereby maintaining the coolant in the substantially liquid phase in the downcomer. The cooling system further includes a plenum connected to the downcomer, wherein the coolant remains in the substantially liquid phase. Additionally, the cooling system includes at least one riser extending upward from the plenum, wherein a portion of the coolant vaporizes to provide a boiling heat transfer surface on the at least one riser.
US09266075B2 Doser and mixer for a vehicle exhaust system
A vehicle exhaust system includes a mixer and a doser that sprays a reducing agent into the mixer to be thoroughly mixed with engine exhaust gases prior to introduction of the mixture into a downstream exhaust component. The doser is mounted in a tangential orientation relative to a point defined at an intersection of a doser axis with a theoretical cylinder that surrounds a center axis of the mixer and is defined by a variable radius.
US09266074B2 Mixing device having a plurality of mixing channels
A mixing device having a chamber is provided. The chamber includes an inlet, a main body, and a flow axis. The main body is configured for containing a fluid circulating generally along the flow axis. The inlet is configured to receive at least one fluid stream and is oriented in a flow plane generally perpendicular to the flow axis. A plurality of mixing channels that each receive portions of the fluid stream from the inlet are provided. The plurality of mixing channels are each oriented along the flow plane and have unequal distinct lengths configured to release the portions of the fluid stream into the chamber at discrete time intervals.
US09266068B2 Aerosol generator for EPTFE filter testing and method of use
Systems and methods for generating low or ultra-low concentrations of oil-based challenging compounds for filtration media are provided. Embodiments of the generators utilize bypass air in addition to the source of challenge. A HEPA filter which utilizes spunbond scrim material and ePTFE membrane for use in an aseptic pharmaceutical filtration air handling system for installation and testing is provided. The installation and testing configuration includes the ePTFE filter with a low or ultra-low concentration of challenging aerosol in the upstream side of the filter along with a scanning device for determining the upstream concentration, all completed in situ within a pharmaceutical air handling system. At the downstream side of the ePTFE filter is positioned another scanner which may be a discrete particle counter. The system and configuration allows for exposure to ePTFE filtration media for certification by low or ultra-low concentrations of oil based challenging compounds.
US09266058B1 High selectivity polyimide membrane for natural gas upgrading and hydrogen purification
A polyimide polymer having hydroxyl and acetoxy function groups is provided together with a membrane made from the polymer. Also provided is a process for separating at least one gas from a mixture of gases using a polyimide membrane comprising a polyimide polymer with hydroxyl and acetoxy functional the process comprising: (a) providing the polyimide membrane comprising the polyimide polymer with hydroxyl and acetoxy functional groups which is permeable to the at least one gas; (b) contacting the mixture on one side of the polyimide membrane to cause said at least one gas to permeate the membrane; and (c) removing from the opposite side of the membrane a permeate gas composition comprising a portion of said at least one gas which permeated the polyimide membrane.
US09266054B2 Durable adsorbent material and adsorbent packs and method of making same
Provided herein are a parallel passage contractors, which may be useful in pressure swing adsorption (PSA), pressure and temperature swing adsorption (PTSA), or vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) systems, having one or more self-supported adsorbent sheets arranged in multiple, overlapping layers mechanically spaced to allow gas flow. Also provided are systems utilizing such parallel passage contactors and methods for preparing the contactors.
US09266047B2 Mist eliminator configuration for droplet removal in fouling service
Vane type mist eliminator segments are arranged in a plurality of tiers at separate vertically spaced locations in a tower, typically of the upright, cylindrical type, with the eliminator at each tier covering only a portion of the cross section of the tower. The eliminator segment(s) in each tier are laterally displaced in the tower from the adjacent vertically spaced eliminator segments to form a staggered configuration for the segments. Each mist eliminator preferably extends over 50-70% of the cross-sectional area of the tower to leave an open flow passage in the tier; the staggering of the segments and the associated flow passages defines an upward tortuous or zig-zag open flow path for vapors ascending the tower through the open flow passages when the eliminator segment(s) become fouled in use.
US09266046B2 Mixed-fiber nonwoven fabric, laminated sheet and filter, and process for producing mixed-fiber nonwoven fabric
Provided are a mixed-fiber nonwoven fabric suitable for air filters and a filter medium using the mixed-fiber nonwoven fabric. The nonwoven fabric includes at least two types of fibers having different melting points, which fibers are low melting point fibers made of a polyolefin resin component A, and high melting point fibers made of a high melting point resin component B having a higher melting point than that of the polyolefin resin component A. The number average fiber diameter of the high melting point fibers is larger than that of the low melting point fibers. At least one high melting point fiber having a fiber diameter of 20 μm to 100 μm is present per 1.00 mm of the length of the cross section of the nonwoven fabric. The number average fiber diameter of all fibers constituting the nonwoven fabric falls within the range of 0.3 μm to 10 μm.
US09266044B2 Combination of a filter element and a core element, and a filter element
A combination (10) of a replaceable filter element (21) and a core element (38) is provided, the filter element comprising a tubular wall (25) of filtration medium for collecting material in a fluid stream passing through the tubular wall (25), a first end part (26) and a second end part. The core element (38) comprises a perforated tube (39) having transverse outer dimensions smaller than transverse inner dimensions of the tubular wall (25), and a bypass valve member (35) provided at one end of the perforated tube (39). The bypass valve member (35) is tubular and moveably attached to the perforated tube (39) for movement in axial direction with respect to the perforated tube (39) between an extended position and a retracted position. The first end part (26) of the filter element (21) comprises an axial passage (29) configured to receive the bypass valve member (35) slideable and sealingly.
US09266043B2 Filter cartridge
Disclosed is a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge includes an inner filter in the form of an approximately cylindrical corrugated membrane, an outer filter in the form of an approximately cylindrical corrugated membrane, the outer filter having a diameter greater than that of the inner filter and being installed around the inner filter, and at least one holder to support the inner filter and the outer filter.
US09266039B2 Cryopump with controlled hydrogen gas release
A cryopump system includes a cryopump having a first cooling stage and a second cooling stage connected to the first cooling stage, the second cooling stage including a gas adsorber having a hydrogen adsorbing capacity of at least about 2 standard liters. The thermal storage capacity of the second cooling stage is sufficient to enable control of hydrogen pressure within the cryopump to satisfy ignition safety limits and limits on hydrogen flow rate in an exhaust line to be within limits of an abatement system to be coupled to the cryopump, upon warming of the second cooling stage during regeneration of up to a fully loaded cryopump.
US09266035B2 Distillation tower feed device
A feed device for a distillation tower has an annular, open-bottomed channel located around the periphery of the feed zone of the tower with an inner wall spaced from the inner curved wall of the tower and a top covering the channel to confer a generally inverted-U shape to the cross section of the channel. One or more tangential feed inlets are provided to admit a heated, mixed phase feed to the tower and direct the feed into and along the channel. One or more vapor scoops are provided for each feed inlet with the scoop(s) located on the inner wall of the channel at a sufficient distance along the channel from the inlet to permit cyclonic separation of vapor and liquid before the vapor in the feed from the inlet enters the scoop(s) and passes through a vapor exit port into the central core of the tower.
US09266033B2 Motor driven, bubble producing toy
An improved bubble wand assembly for a motor driven, bubble producing toy is provided. The wand assembly includes a moving substantially semi-circular, wand portion and a stationary, substantially semi-circular, wand portion, the moving and stationary wand portions being hingably connected to each other at the ends thereof to permit the moving wand portion to move in relation to the stationary wand portion from a closed and superposed position over the stationary wand portion to an open, film-forming, position at an angular orientation to the stationary wand portion.
US09266029B2 Transformable cable volume structure
A structure comprises an elongate, resiliently deformable cable, a body section comprising a cable-receiving aperture, said aperture being dimensioned so as to retain a length of said cable within it in use while permitting relative movement of said cable relative to the aperture in a direction along the length of the cable upon application of a set manipulating force, and retaining means for retaining the cable at a set position relative to the body section absent application of said force, wherein the cable at least partially defines the shape of the structure, and said shape may be changed by application of said manipulating force thus causing relative movement between the cable and the body section in a direction along the length of the cable.
US09266026B2 Method and apparatus for dynamically adjusting game or other simulation difficulty
A method for use with a simulation includes running the simulation, receiving information from a control interface used by a user to interact with the simulation, analyzing the received information, forming at least an indication of the user's level of skill based on the analysis of the received information, and adjusting a difficulty level of the simulation based on the indication of the user's level of skill. A storage medium storing a computer program executable by a processor based system and an apparatus for use with a simulation are also disclosed.
US09266022B1 System to pause a game console whenever an object enters an exclusion zone
A system for use in an interactive gaming console system wherein the gaming console system uses a sensor monitor to detect player actions, wherein either the sensor monitor's motion and proximity sensors or dedicated motion and proximity sensors detect whenever an object enters an exclusion zone, which is the area wherein the object is too close to the sensor monitor. If an object is detected within the exclusion zone, then the game being played by the gaming system is paused at the point of played and resumed after a set or settable time delay or after a manual resume command is issued by user in the usual way. A warning zone can also be defined just beyond the exclusion zone so that a warning signal of appropriate type can be issued to warn a player that the player is approaching the exclusion zone allowing the player to back away from the exclusion zone.
US09266020B2 Character model animation using stored recordings of player movement interface data
Technologies are generally described for providing full-motion animation-as-a-service. In some examples, short motion-capture segments may be captured from user motion user interface devices and stored in a database. When a full-motion animation is desired, a start pose and a target pose may be provided, and a multiple-path, multiple-iteration search through the database may be used to assemble the full-motion animation. Motion retargeting may be used to further refine the assembled full-motion animation.
US09266014B2 System and method for providing a table game
A mechanical ball launcher for a table game is disclosed. According to one embodiment, the mechanical ball launcher has a body that rotates about a first axis. The body has a launch arm that extends along a second axis that is substantially perpendicular to the first axis. The launch arm has a ball receptacle at a terminal end. The mechanical ball launcher has a supporting plate supporting the body and a mechanical spring connected between the body and the supporting plate. The mechanical spring is placed in a loaded position when the launch arm is pulled back. A launch angle, a lateral angle, and a speed of the ball are adjusted as the ball is launched from the ball receptacle of the mechanical ball launcher.
US09266013B2 Playing card conduction structure
A playing card conduction structure includes a base, a card case, a video camera, and an interruption sense device. The card case is disposed on the base and has positioning recesses to engage with positioning protrusions of the base. The base includes a conduction mechanism therein. The outer side of the base is provided with a power mechanism for supplying a power source to the conduction mechanism. The card case is provided with an inclined bottom board having a first opening and a second opening. A guide mechanism is in contact with playing cards through the first opening and the second opening. The power mechanism includes two separate powers with different rotation speeds. Thereby, the playing cards can be conducted stably to lower the mistake of conduction, such that the game process is smooth and quick to save time.
US09266010B2 Splitboard binding with adjustable leverage devices
Some embodiments disclosed herein provide systems, methods, and apparatus relating to a touring snowboard binding comprising an adjustable lateral leverage device. In some embodiments, the adjustable lateral leverage device may comprise at least one first attachment generally at a top corner of a highback of a touring snowboard boot and at least one second attachment generally at an ankle portion of the binding. The adjustable tensioning element may extend generally diagonally between the at least one first attachment and the at least one second attachment such that when the tension in the adjustable lateral leverage device is increased the lateral support to the boot is increased proportionally and when the tension in the adjustable lateral leverage device is decreased the lateral support to the boot is decreased proportionally. Some embodiments also provide a touring snowboard boot comprising an adjustable leverage device.
US09265999B2 Vibration dampening material and method of making same
A material adapted to regulate vibration by distributing and partially dissipating vibration exerted thereon.
US09265997B1 Golf ball retrieving system, including a magnetic retriever and a golf ball attracted thereto
A golf ball retrieving system, which includes a magnetic golf ball retriever and a golf ball attracted thereto, is disclosed herein. The golf ball retriever includes an elongated rod assembly and a body portion having a circular magnet. The elongated rod assembly is connected to the body portion at one of its ends, and extends radially outward from the circular magnet of the body portion. The golf ball includes a metallic material disposed in one of: (i) an inner core, (ii) at least one mantle layer, (iii) an outer skin, (iv) a space between the inner core and the outer skin, (v) a space between the inner core and the at least one mantle layer, and (vi) a space between the at least one mantle layer and the outer skin. The metallic material provided in the golf ball is in the form of a ferrous powder.
US09265992B2 Golf club
A golf club 2 includes a head 4, a shaft 6, and a fixing member Fx1. The head 4 has a hosel part 4h capable of swingably supporting the shaft 6. The shaft 6 has a tip connecting part 6t capable of being connected to the fixing member Fx1. The fixing member Fx1 has a connector 12 capable of being connected to the shaft 6, a first sliding member S1 capable of engaging the connector 12 with a plurality of positions in a first direction D1, and a second sliding member S2 capable of engaging the first sliding member S1 with a plurality of positions in a second direction D2. A movement of the connector 12 in the first direction D1 and a movement of the connector 12 in the second direction D2 are independent of each other.
US09265986B1 Full body exercise equipment
Full body exercise equipment including four elongate rails arranged in a generally side-by-side longitudinal configuration. The four elongate rails are connected together to allow for selected angular arrangements between the rails and also allow for selected longitudinal arrangements between the rails. A slidable shuttle member is provided on each rail with the two inside rails having toe holds and the two outside rails having hand grips. A resilient cord is provided for each shuttle for selectable attachment to either end of the shuttle to provide selected resistance against slidable movement of the shuttle in either direction on a respective rail.
US09265983B1 Exercise apparatus for assisting in strength exercises
An exercise apparatus comprises first and second arm cuffs and a central elastic member. The first and second arm cuffs are configured to encircle right and left arms, respectively, of an exerciser. Each arm cuff is configured to encircle an elbow of the arm, a portion of an upper arm of the arm, and a portion of a lower arm of the arm. The first and second arm cuffs are attached to opposite sides in a longitudinal direction of the central elastic member. The central elastic member has a substantially rectangular shape and has a length sufficient to extend across a chest of the exerciser and for the first and second arm cuffs to encircle the right and left arms, respectively, of the exerciser.
US09265978B2 Flame retardant and fire extinguishing product for fires in liquids
A novel flame retardant and fire extinguishing product for preventing and fighting fires in liquids is disclosed herein. The product comprises water, one or more flame retardants, one or more polymers, one or more surfactants, one or more emulsifiers, one or more preservatives, and one or more firming agents. In some embodiments, the product may further comprise one or more stabilizers, one or more binders, and/or one or more fining agents. The product may be used as a fire extinguishing agent in active firefighting and as a flame retardant to prevent fires. The product may be biodegradable in a natural environment, may be readily cleaned off equipment and materials to which it has been applied using water, and may also provide other features which render it safe for the environment as compared to other commonly used products in fire prevention and firefighting.
US09265974B2 Apparatus, method, and computer-readable recording medium for generating tactile sensation through non-invasive brain stimulation using ultrasonic waves
The present invention relates to an apparatus for creating a tactile sensation through non-invasive brain stimulation by using ultrasonic waves. The apparatus includes: an ultrasonic transducer module for inputting the ultrasonic waves to stimulate a specific part of the brain of a specified user non-invasively through at least one ultrasonic transducer unit; a compensating module for acquiring information on a range of tactile perception areas in the brain of the specified user and compensating properties of ultrasonic waves to be inputted to the specified user through the ultrasonic transducer unit by referring to the acquired information thereon; and an ultrasonic waves generating module for generating ultrasonic waves to be inputted to the specified user through the ultrasonic transducer unit by referring to a compensating value decided by the compensating module.
US09265962B2 Leadless intra-cardiac medical device with reduced number of feed-thrus
A leadless implantable medical device (LIMD) includes a housing formed from a battery and an end cap. A proximal end of the end cap forms an LIMD proximal end and a distal end of the battery case forms an LIMD distal end. A non-conductive coupler mechanically secures a terminal end of the battery case to a mating end of the end cap, while maintaining the battery case and end cap electrically separated. A first electrode projects from the proximal end of the end cap. An intra-cardiac (IC) device extension projects from the distal end of the battery case. The extension includes a second electrode that is electrically connected to the battery case. The second electrode is located remote from the LIMD distal end. An electronics module is located within an internal cavity of the end cap and communicates with the first and second electrodes.
US09265961B2 Support device for supporting a transmission coil on the body of a patient
A support device for supporting a transmission coil on the body of a patient, with a receiving or securing device or a receiving space for receiving or securing the transmission coil in and/or on the support device, and further comprising a detection device for detecting a process of application, a state of application, a process of removal and/or a state of removal of the support device relative to the body of the patient. Further pertaining to a method for operating such a device.
US09265958B2 Implantable medical device antenna
An implantable medical device includes a case having a conductive housing defining an opening. A dielectric material is coupled to the conductive housing to hermetically seal the opening. An antenna is within the case under the dielectric material. A header block is coupled to the case over the dielectric material.
US09265957B2 Implantable medical device and charging system employing electric fields
An implantable medical device and external base station system are disclosed. The external base station can provide a passive electric field to power the implant, or to charge its battery. The base station may also power or charge using magnetic fields under certain circumstances. The Implantable medical device may comprise an implantable neurostimulator having a number of electrode leads extending from its body. One or more of the electrode leads can comprise the antenna for receiving the electric field from the base station, and resonance in that antenna can be rectified to provide the power for recharging the battery. Although the E-field provided by the base station does not provide as much power for recharging as does other traditional charging techniques, it can occur passively and over longer distances to allow the patent's implant to be recharged when in relative proximity to the base station.
US09265956B2 Devices and methods for treating dry eye in animals
Described here are devices, systems, and methods for treating a condition in an animal. Generally the systems include a stimulator that is implantable in the animal and a controller system configured to transmit one or more signals to the implanted stimulator. The controller system may have a controller configured to generate the one or more signals. The controller system may include one or more collars, bridles, horse hoods, cages, animal beds, and/or food bowls. The systems may be used to treat one or more conditions such as dry eye, and may treat the conditions in an animal such as a horse, dog, or cat.
US09265947B2 Circuit board for an implantable medical device, and method of fabricating and testing
Designs and methods of construction for a printed circuit board (PCB) in an implantable pulse generator (IPG) are disclosed which facilitate IPG PCB testing while also providing for protection of IPG circuitry in a simple and cost effective manner. The IPG PCB is formed as part of a larger test PCB, which includes an extender portion with traces routing nodes of interest in the IPG PCB to an edge connector. IPG electronics are mounted or soldered to the IPG PCB, and then such electronics are tested via the edge connector. The IPG PCB is then singulated from the extender portion in a manner leaving one or more PCB tabs at the severed edge of the PCB. The PCB tab(s) extend from the severed edge, and create an offset distance preventing traces severed and now exposed at the severed edge from contacting and potentially shorting to conductive structures in the IPG.
US09265943B2 Method for stimulating living body more accurately and apparatus using the same
Disclosed is a method of more accurately stimulating a living body and an apparatus using the method. The method includes determining targeted bio-information, deriving bio-stimulation information required to achieve the targeted bio-information using complicated time space data indicative of bio-responses interacting at a plurality of different positions in response to bio-stimulation composed of pieces of time-series data having a specific frequency, and applying a stimulation signal to the living body in response to the derived bio-stimulation information. The method is advantageous in that it can derive a systematic algorithm between bio-related information and stimulation information so that more accurate and safely stimulation is made upon applying bio-stimulation based on acquired bio-related information, can minimize a process of trial and error using a systematic algorithm, and can more accurately stimulate a living body by exactly determining a specific target stimulation position.
US09265941B2 Lead set for nerve stimulator and method of operation thereof
Single-use electrical leads for a nerve stimulator are disclosed. The nerve stimulator has a “test mode” that determines a current value for treatment, and a “therapy mode” that administers treatment with the chosen current value. Preferably the fuse is electrically isolated from the leads that contact the patient.
US09265925B2 Controlling flow in a medical injection system
A valve apparatus for a medical injection system includes a pinching member and at least one spring-loaded anvil. A tubing line of the injection system may be positioned between the pinching member and the anvil, such that when the pinching member is moved into a pinching position adjacent to the anvil, for example, by rotation of a shaft to which the member is coupled, the pinching member compresses the tubing line against the spring-loaded anvil. The pinching member is preferably rotatable about an auxiliary axis, which is eccentric, or offset from a central axis of the shaft. A spring member of the spring-loaded anvil is preferably pre-loaded. In certain applications, the pinching member, when moved into the pinching position, applies a pinching force of greater than approximately 45 pounds, for example, to prevent flow through the tubing line at an injection pressure of up to approximately 1200 psi.
US09265922B2 System and method for improving outcome of cerebral ischemia
A system for improving outcome following cerebral ischemia is provided. The system includes a source of nitric oxide and an elongate tubular member for insertion into a nose including at least one orifice thereon. The elongate tubular member is coupled to the source of nitric oxide and configured for delivering the nitric oxide into a nasal cavity through the at least one orifice for absorption into a cerebral vasculature through a nasal vasculature. A device for controlling flow of the gas, a concentration of the nitric oxide in the gas, or both, is also provided.
US09265919B2 Simplified medical inflation device with passive latch
An inflator which preferably has a gauge thereon and means for communicating with a medical connector or device. The inflator has a syringe body, a handle on the syringe body, a plunger which extends out from the handle and extends into the syringe body, and a plunger locking mechanism which is associated with the handle. The plunger locking mechanism includes an actuation lever which is configured to be depressed, thereby causing the plunger locking mechanism to actuate. The plunger locking mechanism includes a ratchet pawl which is configured to selectively engage corresponding ratchet structure, thereby locking the plunger in place, during which time the plunger is prevented from being retracted, but can still be advanced (i.e., pushed into the syringe body during pressurization). The plunger locking mechanism is configured such that when the actuation lever is released, the ratchet pawl disengages from the corresponding ratchet structure, thus freeing the plunger.
US09265913B2 Catheter assembly
Devices and methods are provided to conduct fluid away from or deliver fluid to an area of a treatment site of a patient's body. In one aspect of the invention, a catheter includes a terminal end with a fluid exchange portion. The terminal end may further include a diffuser. The terminal end may further include a barrier.
US09265908B2 Intubating stylette device and related methods
Various embodiments of the invention include an intubating stylette device and related methods of using such a device. In some cases, the stylette includes: a handle member having a base and a tip extending from the base, the handle for engaging a hand of an operator; a control member coupled to the tip of the handle member, the control member including at least one actuation member sized to engage with a finger from the hand of the operator; and a tube member coupled to the control member, the tube member including a tip that is movable between at least two positions when the at least one actuation member is moved from a first position to a second position.
US09265905B2 Stopper device
An airway [(10, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 1110, 1210, 1310, 1410, 1510, 1610, 710, 1810, 2010, 2110, 2210, 2310, 2410, 2510, 2610, 2710, 2810, 2910, 3010, 3110, 3210, 3310, 3810) device for human or animal use, the device includes an airway tube (12) having a first end (14) and a second end (16), wherein the device further includes a shoulder (26), the shoulder extends laterally from and substantially perpendicular to the airway tube, the shoulder is adapted to contact the faucial pillars of the human or animal patient to prevent over-insertion of the device in use.
US09265888B2 Needle-free injectors and design parameters thereof that optimize injection performance
A needle free injector system and a method for delivering a formulation using this system are disclosed. The method comprises actuating a needle free injector to pressurize a liquid formulation and force the formulation through an orifice in a skin puncture phase followed by injection of the formulation during a delivery phase. The skin puncture phase is defined by a pressure profile vs. time curve after actuation which has a main pressure peak with a maximum pressure. The delivery phase occurs at a lower pressure than the maximum pressure of the main peak pressure. The device may have one or more orifices and pressurizing the formulation during the puncture phase and delivery phase to extrude the formulation through each orifice is structured so as to improve characteristics of needle free delivery.
US09265887B2 Automatic injection devices having overmolded gripping surfaces
Exemplary embodiments provide automatic injection devices, housing components for automatic injection devices and methods for fabricating the same. An exemplary housing of an automatic injection device may be overmolded with one or more gripping surfaces to facilitate gripping and manipulation of the automatic injection device by a user when performing an injection. In an exemplary embodiment, an overmolded left gripping surface may extend along a left side of the housing and an overmolded right gripping surface may extend along a right side of the housing opposite to the left side.
US09265886B2 Medicine injection apparatuses
Medicine injection apparatuses having multiple chambers. The chambers may be in lateral relationship. A torsional part is adapted to turn and be repositioned angularly relative to a main body to allow different chambers to be used to receive an injection assembly. The medicine injector can be constructed to administer multiple doses. The apparatuses may also have a storage chamber for storing the injection assembly after use. Plural drivers may be used to administer multiple doses, such as at the different angular positions of the torsional part. The apparatuses may allow multiple automatic injections from different angular positions and storage of an injector after use. Needle fright is reduced by minimizing exposure of an injection needle prior to injection.
US09265877B2 Devices, systems and methods for carbon dioxide angiography
Disclosed herein are various embodiments of devices, systems and methods for the delivery of carbon dioxide (CO2) as a contrast agent for angiography. The CO2 delivery device can include a syringe and a shuttle valve assembly in fluid communication with the syringe, such that the shuttle valve can be disposed in a first position to pressurize the syringe with CO2, and a second position to deliver a bolus of CO2 to a subject.
US09265875B2 Methods for treating blood composition and function disorders wherein a patient's blood plasma is extracorporeally contacted with donor blood or modified donor blood
The present invention relates to a method for treating blood composition disorders and blood function disorders. Said method comprises steps, in which blood or blood plasma of a patient is brought into extracorporeal contact with a second fluid (bioequivalent), wherein said second fluid is blood or modified blood, which comprises at least granulocytes, thrombocytes, and erythrocytes. Furthermore, the invention relates to devices for performing said method and to the use of such a device or blood or modified blood, which comprises granulocytes, thrombocytes, and erythrocytes, for treating blood composition disorders and blood function disorders.
US09265867B2 Reduced-pressure systems, dressings, and methods employing a wireless pump
Systems, methods, and dressings for providing reduced pressure to a tissue site on a patient are presented that involve wirelessly providing power to a reduced-pressure pump. In one instance, a RFID antenna is used to power a reduced-pressure pump that is fluidly coupled by a conduit to a reduced-pressure dressing. In another instance, a reduced-pressure dressing incorporates a micro-pump and a RFID antenna that is used to power the micro-pump. Other systems, methods, and devices are presented.
US09265861B2 Composite material consisting of a collagen matrix mineralised with silicate and calcium phosphate phases, method for the production and use thereof
The invention relates to novel composite materials based on a collagen matrix mineralized with silicate and calcium phosphate phases, to a method for the production thereof and use thereof as an implant material which can be shaped in a plurality of ways, a biological coating or active substance carrier. The claimed composite material comprises a collagen matrix which is mineralized with silicate and a calcium phosphate phase, said collagen being a recombinate collagen, collagen from Eumetazoa, sponge collagen from a sponge of the Demospongia class (horn sponges) or Calcarea (calcareous sponges), a synthetic collage analog, a collagen derivative or a mixture of said collagens.
US09265857B2 Organophosphorous, multivalent metal compounds, and polymer adhesive interpenetrating network compositions and methods
Certain small molecule amino acid phosphate compounds such as phosphoserine and certain multivalent metal compounds such as calcium phosphate containing cements have been found to have improved properties and form an interpenetrating network in the presence of a polymer that contain either an electronegative carbonyl oxygen atom of the ester group or an electronegative nitrogen atom of the amine group as the bonding sites of the polymer surfaces to the available multivalent metal ions.
US09265856B2 Multiple component materials having a color-changing composition
The present invention relates to a multiple-component material including a substrate and a printed layer on the substrate. The printed layer includes a color-changing composition to indicate a change in condition, such as a change in pH. The color-changing composition includes a matrix-forming component, a colorant, a surfactant and a pH adjuster. The pH adjuster includes a low molecular weight organic acid and a high molecular weight organic acid.
US09265841B2 Benzodiazepine derivatives
The invention relates to novel benzodiazepine derivatives with antiproliferative activity and more specifically to novel benzodiazepines of formula (I) and (II), in which the diazepine ring (B) is fused with a heterocyclic ring (CD), wherein the heterocyclic ring is bicyclic or a compound of formula (III), in which the diazepine ring (B) is fused with a heterocyclic ring (C), wherein the heterocyclic ring is monocyclic. The invention provides cytotoxic dimers of these compounds. The invention also provides conjugates of the monomers and the dimers. The invention further provides compositions and methods useful for inhibiting abnormal cell growth or treating a proliferative disorder in a mammal using the compounds or conjugates of the invention. The invention further relates to methods of using the compounds or conjugates for in vitro, in situ, and in vivo diagnosis or treatment of mammalian cells, or associated pathological conditions.
US09265839B2 Conjugation process of bacterial polysaccharides to carrier proteins
Process for conjugation of bacterial saccharides including Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae saccharides by reductive amination are provided herein.
US09265837B1 5α-androstane-3β,5,6β-triol injection and preparation method therefor
A 5α-androstane-3β,5,6β-triol injection and its preparation are disclosed. The injection uses hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin as a solubilizing agent and the active ingredient is present at a weight ratio of 1-20:40-500 to the hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin. The injection may also comprise, by weight, 1-100 parts of at least one isotonic adjusting agent, 0-200 parts of at least one freeze drying filler, and 0-2000 parts of at least one solvent. The preparation method comprises dissolving hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin solution, 5α-androstane-3β,5,6β-triol and at least one additional soluble excipient in water for injection in sequence to obtain a raw injection solution, and subjecting the raw injection solution to decolorization, depyrogenation, filtration and sterilization to obtain the injection. Drying the filtrate yields a solid for injection.
US09265834B2 Stable formulations of polypeptides and uses thereof
Formulations are provided that contain single variable domains with a good solubility and good stability under different storage, transportation and stress conditions. The formulations are useful as pharmaceutical formulation. The formulation comprises an aqueous carrier with a pH of 5.5 to 8.0, a buffer selected from the group consisting of histidine pH 6.0-6.5, hepes pH 7.0-8.0, MES pH 6.0, succinate pH 6.0-6.5 and acetate pH 5.5-6.0; an excipient; and/or a surfactant selected from polysorbate 80, polysorbate 20 and poloxamers. The formulation is further characterized that it has an inorganic salt concentration of 150 mM or lower.
US09265832B2 Stabilized pemetrexed formulation
The present invention relates to a stabilized pemetrexed formulation, and more particularly to a stabilized pemetrexed formulation comprising acetylcysteine as antioxidant and a citrate salt as buffer.
US09265827B2 Anti-PDGFR-beta antibodies and uses thereof
The present invention provides antibodies that bind to platelet derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFR-beta) and methods of using the same. According to certain embodiments of the invention, the antibodies are fully human antibodies that bind to human PDGFR-beta with high affinity. The antibodies of the invention are useful for the treatment of diseases and disorders associated with PDGFR-beta signaling and/or PDGFR-beta cellular expression, such as ocular diseases, fibrotic diseases, vascular diseases and cancer.
US09265826B2 Siglec-9 binding agents
The present invention relates to agents capable of binding sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin-9 (Siglec-9) and their use in the treatment of cell proliferation and differentiation disorders. Furthermore, the present invention provides associated pharmaceutical formulations and methods.
US09265822B2 Peptides for inducing heterosubtypic influenza T cell responses
The present invention provides compositions and methods for generation of an anti-influenza immune response. In particular, conserved T cell epitopes within matrix protein and nucleoprotein components of influenza virus have been identified and further screened for those structures that will bind either or both of HLA I and II molecules. Methods for vaccinating subjects with formulations of such peptides for the treatment or prevention of influenza infaction also are described.
US09265796B2 Methods of treating or preventing rheumatic disease
The present disclosure provides a method for treating or preventing a rheumatic disease, comprising administering a population of cells enriched for STRO-1+ cells and/or progeny thereof and/or soluble factors derived therefrom.
US09265791B2 Resorption enhancers as additives to improve the oral formulation of low molecular weight heparins
Aspects of the invention include methods for treating or preventing a thromboembolic disease in a subject. In practicing methods according to certain embodiments, an amount of a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and a synergistically effective combination of two or more gastrointestinal epithelial barrier permeation enhancers is orally administered to a subject in a manner sufficient to treat the thromboembolic disease in the subject. Compositions and kits for practicing methods of the invention are also described.
US09265786B1 Method for reducing protein misfolding and accumulation in Huntington'S disease cells
A method and virus for decreasing the levels of the disease-causing protein in Huntington's disease (mhtt) are described. Increased expression of human TXNDC10, and TXN1 in diseased cells decreases levels of toxic mhtt in cell models of disease. Genetically increasing the expression of the genes producing these proteins using viral vectors, or small molecule chemical activators of gene expression or stimulators of enzymatic activity, may be used to treat Huntington's disease in the asymptomatic carrier or affected human. Since other protein misfolding neurodegenerative diseases have many features in common with Huntington's disease, including the structure of the misfolded protein, the present method may be applicable to other protein misfolding neurodegenerative diseases.
US09265782B2 Compositions, methods, and devices for the treatment of eye stain
Embodiments provided herein relate to compositions, methods, and devices useful for treating eye stain. More particularly, compositions and devices are provided that include tylosin and a carrier suitable for ophthalmic application. Such compositions and devices can be used to treat eye stain in an animal, such as a dog or cat.
US09265780B2 Method of enhancing lysosomal α-galactosidase A
A method of enhancing the activity of lysosomal α-Galactosidase A (α-Gal A) in mammalian cells and for treatment of Fabry disease by administration of 1-deoxy-galactonojirimycin and related compounds.
US09265774B2 Methods, compounds and pharmaceutical compositions for treating anxiety and mood disorders
Pharmaceutical compositions containing a cocktail of inhibitors of central stress nuclei are provided. The pharmaceutical compositions are useful for the prevention and treatment of a variety of conditions in mammals including humans, including anxiety and mood disorders such as depression.
US09265773B2 Tetracyclic heterocycle compounds and methods of use thereof for the treatment of viral diseases
The present invention relates to compounds of formula (I) that are useful as hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5B polymerase inhibitors, the synthesis of such compounds, and the use of such compounds for inhibiting HCV NS5B polymerase activity, for treating or preventing HCV infections and for inhibiting HCV viral replication and/or viral production in a cell-based system.
US09265772B2 Carbazole-containing sulfonamides as cryptochrome modulators
The subject matter herein is directed to carbazole-containing sulfonamide derivatives and pharmaceutically acceptable salts or hydrates thereof of structural formula I wherein the variable R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, a, and b are accordingly described. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds of formula I to treat a Cry-mediated disease or disorder, such as diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, Cushing's syndrome, and glaucoma.
US09265768B2 Derivatives of 1-phenyl-2-pyridinyl alkyl alcohols as phosphodiesterase inhibitors
The invention relates to inhibitors of the phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) enzyme. More particularly, the invention relates to compounds that are derivatives of 1-phenyl-2-pyridinyl alkyl alcohols, methods of preparing such compounds, compositions containing them and therapeutic use thereof.
US09265763B2 Substituted benzylindazoles for use as Bub1 kinase inhibitors in the treatment of hyperproliferative diseases
Compounds of formula (I) which are inhibitors of Bub1 kinase, processes for their production and their use as pharmaceuticals.
US09265758B2 Methods for treating disorders or diseases associated with hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia while minimizing side-effects
The present invention provides methods and compositions for treating hyperlipidemia and/or hypercholesterolemia comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of an MTP inhibitor to inhibit hyperlipidemia and/or hypercholesterolemia in said subject, wherein said administration comprises an escalating series of doses of the MTP inhibitor. In some embodiments the method comprises administering at least three step-wise, increasing dosages of the MTP inhibitor to the subject. In some embodiments, the method further comprises the administration of one or more other lipid modifying compounds.
US09265753B2 Limited release lingual thioctic acid delivery systems
A diffusion rate limiting matrix is utilized to lingually and/or sublingually deliver thioctic acid. This limited release matrix is intended for general nutritional supplementation and/or the treatment of various physiological disorders. Due to its lingual nature, this rate limiting matrix can produce IV-equivalent plasma levels and is not meant to be swallowed.
US09265751B2 Methods for treating chronic pain
The invention provides a method of treating chronic pain by administering an effective amount of a low-molecular weight compound that inhibits the enzyme activity of autotaxin to a subject in need thereof, thereby treating chronic pain in the subject. The chronic pain preferably is fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or hypersensitivity colitis.
US09265748B2 Anhydrous and hemihydrate crystalline forms of an (R)-baclofen prodrug, methods of synthesis and methods of use
Crystalline (3R)-4-{[(1S)-2-methyl-1-(2-methylpropanoyloxyl)propoxy]carbonylamino}-3-(4-chlorophenyl)butanoic acid anhydrate and crystalline (3R)-4-{[(1S)-2-methyl-1-(2-methylpropanoyloxyl)propoxy]carbonylamino}-3-(4-chlorophenyl)butanoic acid hemihydrate, pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds, methods of making and methods of using the same are disclosed.
US09265741B2 Molecules to perfect HbA1c levels
This invention is of particular use to patients with Diabetes Mellitus. It uses alkyl analogs of the methyl pyruvate (MP) family to provide energy and improve insulin and glucose homeostasis via accelerated intracellular delivery of protons, pyruvate and ATP from each MP. The energy upregulates cellular cross talk and networking resulting in a surge of ATP enabling NADH (via glycolysis) that enables pancreatic islet cells to obtain increased ATP allowing increased insulin manufacture. This process improves cellular respiration, expedites protein, lipid and hormone manufacture. The increased energy also enables telomeres and delays Hayflick limit. Instead of cellular repair, silence, or apoptosis, energy is allocated for cell/organ function. This invention curbs inflammation and ROS by idealizing cellular respiration and diminishing hyperglycemia. In turn a reduction of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), lessened target RNA and nucleic acid toxins, i.e., diminished HbA1c occurs. By decreased drain of cellular energy, genomic function improves.
US09265734B2 Compositions including 6-aminohexanoic acid derivatives as HDAC inhibitors
This invention relates to compounds of Formula (I) wherein Cy1, L1, Y, R1, L2, and Ar2 are defined herein, for the treatment of cancers, inflammatory disorders, and neurological conditions.
US09265733B2 Drug depots having different release profiles for reducing, preventing or treating pain and inflammation
Effective treatments of pain and/or inflammation are provided. Through the administration of an effective amount of at least analgesic and/or at least one anti-inflammatory agent at or near a target site, one can reduce, prevent or treat inflammation and pain.
US09265732B2 Dosage forms for administering combinations of drugs
The present invention is directed to dosage forms that can be used in therapeutic methods involving the oral co-administration of a combination of at least two drugs, one of which impairs gastrointestinal absorption and one of which does not. The dosage forms are designed so that the drug impairing absorption is not released into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient until after the drugs that do not impair absorption have been released and substantially absorbed. The invention may be used in treatment of migraine using a combination of triptans and NSAIDs or in the treatment of pain using a combination of NSAIDs and opioid analgesics.
US09265731B2 Drying of drug-containing particles
A secondary drying process is disclosed for removing residual solvent from drug-containing particles that have been formed by solvent-based processes, the secondary drying process utilizing a combination of vacuum, agitation, and a stripping gas.
US09265723B2 Long acting insulin composition
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising an insulin compound in a concentration that is sufficient to maintain a therapeutically effective level of the insulin compound in blood plasma for at least 3 days characterized by having a pharmacokinetic profile in vivo with substantially no burst of the insulin compound. The present invention further relates to the use of an insulin compound for preparing said pharmaceutical composition as well as a kit of parts comprising said pharmaceutical composition.
US09265712B2 Adhesive dental bleaching compositions containing polyvinylpyrrolidone
A dental bleaching composition comprises a dental bleaching agent, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and at least 0.1% water. The bleaching composition may include a liquid component, flavoring agent, basic substance, and/or desensitizing agent as desired. Polyvinylpyrrolidone avoids acid etching and chelation of teeth that were problematic in bleaches using carbomer as a thickener. A delivery system for delivering the bleaching composition comprises the aforementioned dental bleaching composition in combination with a moisture-resistant barrier layer such as a dental tray or a flexible strip of material.
US09265709B2 Use of peptides as antidandruff agents
The present invention relates to compositions comprising peptides with antidandruff activity. The invention also relates to the use of these peptides as antidandruff agents, or in methods for treating dandruff.
US09265703B2 Color change of chalcone-containing oral care formulations
Oral care compositions and methods are described in which the composition includes a chalcone color change component, which may be phenyl-3-methoxy-4-hydroxystyryl ketone. The color change component is induced to change colors by addition of saliva and/or by a change in pH of the composition. The composition and methods provide benefits including providing visual cues to the user.
US09265698B2 Housing for an oral hygiene and medication device, and an assembly thereof
The invention provides a housing adapted to provide for the juxtaposition of an oral hygiene device, such as a toothbrush, with an inhaler medication device, such as a metered dose inhaler (MDI) or dry powder inhaler (DPI). Also provided is an assembly including a housing, an oral hygiene device and an inhaler medication device wherein, in use, the housing and inhaler medication device together secure the oral hygiene device in the housing such that the oral hygiene device cannot be removed for use without first removing the inhaler medication device.
US09265685B1 Compliant bimanual rehabilitation device and method of use thereof
A compliant bimanual rehabilitation system. The device allows for the user or operator's hands to be coupled with a variety of coupling stiffnesses and in a variety of symmetry modes, leading to enhanced rehabilitation of the impaired arm. Structurally, the device includes a carrier assembly slidably coupled to a base along a y-axis, an upper assembly rotatably coupled to the carrier assembly along a z-axis, handle slides slidably coupled to the upper assembly along an x-axis, compliant handle assemblies coupled to the handle slides, and handles coupled to the compliant handle assemblies. Encoders and load cells can also be positioned accordingly to monitor the position of the components and force applied to the device. Spring stacks can be coupled to the compliant handle assemblies to adjust coupling stiffnesses. The handles are indirectly linked to each other to facilitate rehabilitation of the paretic arm using the sound arm.
US09265681B1 Apparatus and method for facilitating or enhancing a person's breathing
An apparatus and method for facilitating or enhancing a person's breathing. The method provides for supporting the person's shoulders and elevating the person's spine, so as to enable the person's body weight to be distributed in the person's shoulders, expanding the person's chest cavity to enhance oxygen intake. The apparatus is especially adapted to perform the functions of the method.
US09265680B2 Surgical table
A surgical table including a central bottom portion is provided. The surgical table includes at least one first wheel adjacent a first end of the table, at least one second wheel adjacent a second end of the table, and a first stabilizing bar connected to the first wheel and the second wheel. The stabilizing bar is movably connected to the central bottom portion. The stabilizing bar is configured for coordinated movement of the wheels.
US09265679B2 Cantilevered patient positioning support structure
A patient support system includes independently adjustable end columns supporting a centrally hinged, jointed or breaking patient support structure. At least one column includes a powered rotation assembly. The patient support includes at least two sections. A coordinated drive system provides for both upwardly and downwardly breaking or jointed orientations of the two sections in various inclined and tilted positions. Cable, cantilevered and pull-rod systems are included.
US09265671B2 Absorbent article having a graphic visible through body contacting surface
An absorbent article for feminine hygiene, comprising: a body contacting layer; a garment contacting layer; and an absorbent core disposed between the body contacting layer and the garment contacting layer. The absorbent core has a core edge. The core edge defines a core region within the core edge and an outer region outside the core region. The body contacting layer and the garment contacting layer extend outward into the outer region and joined together in the outer region. The garment contacting layer may have a graphic printed on the body facing surface or the body contacting layer may have a graphic printed on the garment facing surface. The body contacting layer has a first light transmittance so that the graphic can be seen through the body contacting layer.
US09265665B2 Inflatable off-loading wound dressing assemblies, systems, and methods
To offload forces from a tissue site being treated with reduced pressure, an offloading pressure component may be used as part of a reduced-pressure treatment system. A reduced-pressure source of the reduced-pressure treatment system vents positive pressure exhaust into the offloading pressure component to inflate the offloading pressure component. The offloading pressure component disperses forces away from the tissue site. Other devices, methods, and systems are presented.
US09265663B2 Methods, systems, and devices for treating tinnitus with VNS pairing
A method of treating tinnitus comprising measuring a patient's hearing, determining the patient's hearing loss and the patient's tinnitus frequency using the measurements of the patient's hearing, programming a clinical controller with the measurements of the patient's hearing, selecting a plurality of therapeutic tones, where the therapeutic tones are selected to be at least a half-octave above or below of the patient's tinnitus frequency, setting an appropriate volume for each of the plurality of tones, repetitively playing each of the plurality of therapeutic tones, and pairing a vagus nerve stimulation pulse train with each playing of a therapeutic tone, thereby reducing the patient's perception of tinnitus.
US09265660B2 Methods, systems, and devices for treating tinnitus with VNS pairing
A method of treating tinnitus comprising measuring a patient's hearing, determining the patient's hearing loss and the patient's tinnitus frequency using the measurements of the patient's hearing, programming a clinical controller with the measurements of the patient's hearing, selecting a plurality of therapeutic tones, where the therapeutic tones are selected to be at least a half-octave above or below of the patient's tinnitus frequency, setting an appropriate volume for each of the plurality of tones, repetitively playing each of the plurality of therapeutic tones, and pairing a vagus nerve stimulation pulse train with each playing of a therapeutic tone, thereby reducing the patient's perception of tinnitus.
US09265658B2 Contact element for laser machining
An optical contact element for coupling a laser processing device to an object to be processed is described, wherein the laser processing device focuses a scanned laser beam through a surface of the object into a certain region of the object and the contact element comprises an entrance side for receiving the scanned laser radiation and an exit side imparting a defined surface curvature to the surface of the object upon contact therewith, wherein a diffractive optical element is provided on the entrance side, which element reduces the angle of incidence of the laser radiation on the surface of the object.
US09265655B2 Punctum plug insertion device and device packaging
A punctum dilating and plug inserting system includes an inserter and a protective cover defining a dilator. The inserter includes a longitudinal body, and a handle. The handle has a rounded stationary member and a trigger rotatably connected to the handle by a living hinge. A mounting wire extends through the body and is connected to the trigger. When the trigger is activated, the wire is retracted and a plug mounted on a distal end of the wire is released. A packaging is provided for receiving, protecting, and handling at least a portion of the entire inserter until ready for use. An end of the packaging includes a dilator dip for dilating the punctum in advance of receiving the punctum plug.
US09265652B2 Intrauterine contraceptive device
A method for promoting contraception by placing a contraceptive device within a uterus without blocking fallopian tubes may involve advancing a distal end of a delivery device through a cervix, advancing the contraceptive device comprising an elongate shape memory member out of the distal end of the delivery device and into the uterus, and limiting inferior migration of the contraceptive device within the uterus. Inferior migration may be limited by allowing the contraceptive device to assume a shape, when subjected to pressure that tends to cause a downward migration of the device within the uterus, in which an expandable middle portion of the device is expanded to contact the inner wall of the uterus and thus limit the downward migration of the device.
US09265647B2 Dynamic load bearing shock absorbing exoskeletal knee brace
The exoskeletal dynamic load bearing shock absorbing knee brace makes use of the energy absorbing characteristics of specifically designed industrial shock absorbers which are held precisely in place by an articulated dynamic exoskeletal structure that is to be secured to the lower limbs of the individual with the injured knee. The exoskeletal structure is designed using the principles of the overcenter linkage to translate and transfer to the shock absorbers a representative fraction of the normal and extra normal ambulatory movements of the lower limbs of the user which makes possible for these shock absorbers to absorb a corresponding amount of energy and provide an alternate load bearing structure parallel to the knees thus introducing a desirable degree of protection for the injured knee.
US09265646B2 Orthotic device for treating knee flexion contracture
A double upright knee brace for treating knee flexion contracture includes upper and lower sections, each section having a pair of leg members and an anteriorly disposed integral thigh and shin cuff. A pair of hinges is intermediately positioned to the upper and lower sections. Notches formed in the upper and lower sections provide a catch for a pair of elastic bands, one each deployed on opposed sides of the knee brace, which provide a gait swing assist mechanism for the brace. A multitude of adjustable straps are deployed on both the anterior and posterior sides of the brace. A pair of air bladders, one deployed posteriorly below the knee and one deployed anteriorly above the knee, provide posterior-anterior mobilization when a patient wears the brace, stands up and ambulates. A pair of inner air bladders mounted on inner surfaces of the hinges stabilizes the knee joint.
US09265642B2 Bootless ankle brace
A bootless ankle brace for treating an injured ankle. The brace includes a body panel, two stabilizing straps, and a binding strap. The user's foot is inserted into the body panel so that the body panel is located just above the ankle. The outside (lateral) stabilizing strap is brought forward across top of the foot and under the heel and secured to the opposite side of the ankle. This process is repeated with the inside (medial) stabilizing strap. Once both straps are secured, they are both tensioned (using finger loops) and re-secured to the side of the body panel. The ankle brace is secured by wrapping and securing an elastic cuff around the body panel.
US09265639B2 Stent loading and delivery device having a loading basket lock mechanism
A stent loading and delivery system, the delivery system comprising an inner elongate tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end, an intermediate elongate tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end in sliding relationship to said inner elongate tubular member and an external elongate tubular member having a proximal end and a distal end in sliding relationship to said intermediate elongate tubular member, said intermediate elongate tubular member comprising a stop mechanism at its proximal end, wherein the stop mechanism prevents the external elongate tubular member from being slid past the stop mechanism when the external elongate tubular member is slid in a proximal direction.
US09265628B2 Prosthetic device and connecting system using a vacuum
The disclosed prosthetic device may comprise a receptacle for receiving a limb of a person; a vacuum pump in fluid communication with the receptacle for maintaining an amount of vacuum used for connecting the receptacle to the limb of the person; a controller; and/or an electronically controllable fluid control device. The controller may be configured to provide a vacuum signature to be displayed at a user interface and/or to control the amount of vacuum used for connecting the receptacle to the limb of the person.
US09265626B1 Height-adjustable threaded shock absorbing module and associated coupling member
Systems and apparatuses are provided comprising a prosthetic foot, a shock absorbing module and a coupling member for operably connecting the prosthetic foot to the shock absorbing module. The prosthetic foot can include an upper member connected to a lower member, wherein the upper member includes an upper attachment portion for attaching to the coupling member. The coupling member can include one or more holes for receiving an epoxy filling to secure the coupling member to the upper attachment portion of the prosthetic foot. The shock absorbing member can include a threaded portion that is mateable with an inner threaded section of the coupling member, thereby allowing height adjustability of the shock absorbing member.
US09265613B2 Cementless tibial implant
A cementless orthopedic implant is disclosed. More specifically, but not necessarily entirely, a cementless tibial implant used as a component of a knee joint is disclosed. The tibial component may comprise a tibial tray and stem. The tibial component may be a monoblock design used for both primary and revision surgeries. The stem of the tibial component may comprise a plurality of protruding steps that assist in providing primary fixation and stability without the use of screws or cement. The stem of the tibial component may further comprise a first and second stepped wing portions.
US09265611B2 Partial joint resurfacing implant, instrumentation, and method
A partial resurfacing implant for use in repairing an articular cartilage defect site that includes a top articulating portion having a top surface that is configured with at least one radius of curvature to approximate the surface contour of the articular cartilage surrounding the defect site. The implant also includes a supporting plate that has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface is attached to the top articulating portion by a locking mechanism. The bottom surface of the supporting plate is constructed to facilitate the insertion of the implant into the defect site. Extending from the bottom surface of the supporting plate is at least one implant fixation portion. The at least one implant fixation portion is integrally connected to and is oriented about normal relative to the bottom surface. A method of repairing an articular cartilage defect with the partial joint resurfacing implant is also disclosed.
US09265608B2 Implant having multiple rotational assemblies
An annuloplasty ring is secured around an annulus of a heart valve of a subject by securing an anterior-configured portion of the annuloplasty ring, a posterior-configured portion of the annuloplasty ring, a first commissural portion of the annuloplasty ring, and a second commissural portion of the annuloplasty ring, to respective portion of the annulus. Subsequently, and while the heart is beating, the first commissural portion of the annuloplasty ring is moved inferiorly downwardly with respect to another portion of the annuloplasty ring by rotating a respective first adjusting mechanism of the annuloplasty ring structure, and the second commissural portion of the annuloplasty ring is moved inferiorly downwardly with respect to the other portion of the annuloplasty by rotating a respective second adjusting mechanism of the annuloplasty ring structure. Other embodiments are also described.
US09265604B2 Device for use in delivery of ophthalmic lenses
The actuator (see FIG. 2) comprises a barrel 16 and a plunger 22 received within the barrel. A clutch mechanism 54 is operable between the plunger and the barrel. In the engaged condition of the clutch, the plunger is advanced by rotation relative to the barrel. An axial load on the plunger disengages the clutch mechanism, allowing the plunger to be advanced axially while rotating the driven member 60. Two-handed or one-handed operation is therefore possible. A freely rotatable collar 27 on the plunger allows the plunger to be returned to its retracted position with a linear rearward movement while allowing rotation of the plunger. A resilient ring 35 mounted in a cross-passage 32 in a bush 28 at the forward end of the plunger provides a measured degree of frictional resistance to the plunger returning under its own weight to the retracted position. The ring may be replaced by a C-shaped resilient element (see FIG. 13). The actuator can be used in combination with a lens delivery device (see FIGS. 1 and 2).
US09265601B2 Sheaths for implantable fixation devices
Sheaths for implantable fixation devices are disclosed. Sheaths have a flexible body with a perforated wall, an open end, a closed end, and a body interior sized and shaped to receive the fixation device.
US09265594B2 Dispensing device for a dental substance and method of making such a device
This disclosure is directed, inter alia, a method of making a dispensing device for dispensing a substance comprising a step of providing a mold having a mold space for receiving a solidifyable material. The method further comprises steps of providing a valve member having a first portion formed between first and second areas of an outer surface of the valve member; placing the valve member into the mold space such that at the first area is isolated from the mold space and at least part of the second area is within the mold space; displacing the first portion at least partially relative to another portion of the valve member; and solidifying the material in the mold space and thereby fixing the displaced first portion in place. In one embodiment, the method helps minimizing manufacturing costs and maximizing shelf life of a device filled with substance.
US09265592B2 Clamping device
A clamping device (1) for a machine tool (2) for machining at least one dental workpiece (3), wherein the clamping device (1) has at least one workpiece carrier (4) for accommodating the dental workpiece (3) during machining, wherein at least one tool holder (5) for holding at least one, preferably a plurality of cutting tools (6) for machining the dental workpiece (3) is arranged, preferably fixedly, on the workpiece carrier (4), and the workpiece carrier (4) and the tool holder (5) are fastened or fastenable together as one component on a carrier of the clamping device (1) in an exchangeable manner by a fastening device (7) that is non-destructively releasable, preferably without a tool.
US09265583B2 Method for image-based robotic surgery
A robotic surgery method may include moving and temporarily fixing the position of a mobile base relative to the floor; coupling a first element of a fluoroscopic imaging system, including a source element and a detector element, to a first robotic arm coupled to the mobile base, the first robotic arm including a mounting fixture configured to be interchangeably coupled to a surgical tool and the first element; mounting a second element of the fluoroscopic imaging system in a position and orientation relative to the first element such that a targeted patient tissue structure may be positioned between the first and second elements of the fluoroscopic imaging system; and utilizing a sensing system and one or more sensing elements coupled to each of the first and second elements of the fluoroscopic imaging system to determine a relative spatial positioning between each of the first and second elements.
US09265582B2 Robot for minimally invasive interventions
Rather than trying to immobilize a living, moving organ to place the organ in the fixed frame of reference of a table-mounted robotic device, the present disclosure teaches mounting a robot in the moving frame of reference of the organ. A miniature crawling robotic device can be introduced, in the case of the heart, into the pericardium through a port, attach itself to the epicardial surface, and then, under the direct control of the surgeon, travel to the desired location for treatment. The problem of beating-heart motion is largely avoided by attaching the device directly to the epicardium. The device can be used for other organs and animals.
US09265569B2 Method of manufacturing an electrosurgical forceps
A method for manufacturing a jaw assembly configured for use with an electrosurgical forceps is provided. A seal plate with an inwardly facing tab member extending along a peripheral edge thereof is formed. A cavity defined along the inwardly facing tab member of the seal plate is formed. Subsequently, the seal plate is overmolded to a jaw housing. The cavity is configured to receive an insulative substrate therein to facilitate securing the seal plate to the jaw housing.
US09265566B2 Surgical instrument
A surgical instrument includes a housing and an elongated shaft having a distal portion and a proximal portion coupled to the housing. The elongated shaft defines a longitudinal axis and a mandrel at the proximal portion. An inner shaft member extends at least partially through the elongated shaft. An actuating mechanism is operably coupled to the mandrel and is configured to selectively cause movement of the elongated shaft in a longitudinal direction with respect to the inner shaft member. The surgical also includes an end effector that is adapted for treating tissue and includes an upper jaw member pivotally coupled to a distal portion of the inner shaft member about a pivot axis and a lower jaw member supported by the distal portion of the elongated shaft. Longitudinal movement of the elongated shaft is configured to pivot the upper jaw member relative to the lower jaw member.
US09265565B2 Open vessel sealing instrument and method of manufacturing the same
An open electrosurgical forceps is provided and includes a pair of first and second shaft members each having a jaw member at a distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable from a first position in spaced relation relative to one another to a subsequent position wherein the jaw members cooperate to grasp tissue therebetween. A cutting mechanism is adapted to selectively and removably couple to one of the first and second shaft members. The cutting mechanism includes a cutting trigger for selectively advancing a knife blade extending therefrom through a knife channel defined along one or both of the jaw members. The first shaft member includes a stop feature formed thereon and the second shaft feature includes a stop member formed thereon. The stop feature and stop member configured to selectively engage one another to limit rotation of the first and second shaft members with respect to one another.
US09265560B2 System and method for detecting and suppressing arc formation during an electrosurgical procedure
A method for suppressing arc formation during an electrosurgical tissue treatment procedure includes the steps of supplying pulsed current from an energy source to tissue and measuring the pulsed current supplied from the energy source. The method also includes the steps of comparing an instantaneous measured pulse to a predetermined threshold and controlling the pulsed current supplied from the energy source based on the comparison between the instantaneous measured pulse and the predetermined threshold.
US09265558B2 Methods for bilateral renal neuromodulation
Methods and apparatus are provided for bilateral renal neuromodulation, e.g., via a pulsed electric field, via a stimulation electric field, via localized drug delivery, via high frequency ultrasound, via thermal techniques, etc. Such neuromodulation may effectuate irreversible electroporation or electrofusion, necrosis and/or inducement of apoptosis, alteration of gene expression, action potential attenuation or blockade, changes in cytokine up-regulation and other conditions in target neural fibers. In some embodiments, neuromodulation is applied to neural fibers that contribute to renal function. In some embodiments, such neuromodulation is performed in a bilateral fashion. Bilateral renal neuromodulation may provide enhanced therapeutic effect in some patients as compared to renal neuromodulation performed unilaterally, i.e., as compared to renal neuromodulation performed on neural tissue innervating a single kidney.
US09265551B2 Torque-limiting screwdrivers
Various torque-limiting screwdrivers, systems, and methods are disclosed. The screwdriver can include a body supporting a motor configured to rotate a screw engaged with the screwdriver. The screwdriver can include a controller configured to implement torque-limiting functionality, such as by monitoring the amount of torque applied to the screw and reducing or stopping rotation of the screw when certain torque-limiting criteria are met. Some embodiments include a threshold point, after which the torque-limiting functionality can be engaged. Some embodiments include a slowdown point, after which the rotational speed of the screw is reduced.
US09265544B2 Sternal plate type sternal closure comprising an integral severing site member
The invention relates to a sternal closure for closing a cleft in a sternum, wherein in each of a first and a second securing area at least one hole is provided for receiving bone screws, the two securing areas being adapted to be screwed on each side of the cleft, wherein a severing site member joining the two securing areas and being integrally connected thereto is provided.
US09265537B2 System for implanting a rod implant along a spine of a patient
A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient.
US09265536B2 System for implanting a rod implant along a spine of a patient
A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient.
US09265535B2 System for implanting a rod implant along a spine of a patient
A tool set for implanting a rod in a human spine in conjunction with bone screws. The tool set includes a pair of end guide tools that receive opposite ends of the rod in channels and under manipulation by a surgeon facilitate transport of the rod toward the bone screws attached to the guide tools. Intermediate guide tools having guiding pass through slots are utilized to guide intermediate locations along the rod toward associated bone screws. An attachment structure operably connects the guide tools to the bone screws. The guide tools each include a lower guide and advancement structure to allow a closure top with mating structure to be rotated and driven downward against the rod and to cooperate with similar structure in the bone screw to seat and lock the rod therein. A method utilizing the tool set allows a surgeon to percutaneously implant the rod in the patient.
US09265530B2 Apparatus and methods for fixating a cranial bone flap with a cranial bone mass
A fixation device for use in securing a cranial bone flap with a cranial bone mass at the location of a burr hole. In one implementation the fixation device includes a closure plate having a substrate with an outer surface and an inner surface and with at least a portion of the inner surface adapted to be applied against the outer face of the outer edges of the cranial bone mass and the cranial bone flap at the location of the burr hole. The closure plate is also adapted with a burr hole fitting coupled to and spaced a distance below the inner surface of the substrate and adapted for being inserted entirely into the burr hole. The fitting may include one or more peripheral portions adapted for being pressed against the inner wall of the burr hole when the fitting is inserted therein. The peripheral portions are endowed with a freedom of movement that enables the fitting to be inserted into the burr hole.
US09265525B2 Methods and devices for traversing an anatomic wall
Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for traversing an anatomic wall. A system can include a port that mates with an anatomic wall and provides a lumen for the passage of a guide tube of a transluminal device. The port can inhibit the passage of biological materials through the anatomic wall. Further described herein are methods for implanting the port and/or for inserting the transluminal device into a body cavity.
US09265519B2 Tunnel notcher and guidewire delivery device
A tunnel notcher and guidewire delivery device is provided for creating a notch and positioning a guidewire within a bone tunnel. In general, the device includes an elongate member having proximal and distal ends with an inner lumen extending therebetween that is adapted to receive a guidewire. The device also includes a cutting element disposed on a distal portion of the elongate member that is adapted to remove bone within an opening of a bone tunnel. In use, the device 10 can be at least partially positioned within a bone tunnel containing a bone plug, and it can be manipulated to form a notch within or adjacent to an opening of the bone tunnel using the cutting element 18. The device 10 is also effective to deliver a guidewire 16 to the bone tunnel at a location adjacent to the notch.
US09265517B2 Surgical disc removal tool
The disclosure provides a tissue removal device including customizable tips. The tissue removal device may include an outer shaft and a threaded shaft. One aspect of disclosure may include a shaft cutting tool that emerges from the end of the outer shaft. Another aspect of the disclosure may include a flexible cutting blade extending from the threaded shaft. Threaded shaft may be driven by a driving mechanism in order to provide an auger-like suction mechanism to facilitate the transfer of removed tissue to a collection chamber that is coupled to the outer shaft and the threaded shaft.
US09265508B2 Surgical technique and instrumentation for minimal incision hip arthroplasty surgery
Improved instruments for modifying a shape of a proximal femur of a patient for installation of a stem of a femoral component of a prosthetic hip during hip replacement surgery, comprising a handle including an elongated shaft extending downward approximately in a z-direction, a first offset extending from a bottom of the elongated shaft approximately in a y-direction, a second offset extending from the second offset approximately in an x-direction, and a shaping member elongated downward from the second offset approximately in the z-direction. Provided is an improved femoral broach and an improved osteotome. Also provided is a method of improving a patient's positioning during hip replacement surgery by using a variable configuration mattress for positioning the patient.
US09265505B2 Endoluminal surgical delivery system
A system (1) for delivering a staple (9) to the locus of an artery (2) comprises a delivery conduit (5) for inserting into the lumen of an artery through which conduit a staple can be delivered to the locus, and an elongate element (6) such as a catheter for a balloon (7) for translating axial advancement of the delivery conduit through the artery into movement of the distal end of the delivery conduit away from the longitudinal axis of the artery and towards the artery wall.
US09265503B2 Methods for applying surgical staples to internal walls of hollow tissue organs
A method of performing a surgical anastomosis is disclosed. The method includes providing an anastomotic device including a fluid supply channel extending between a handle assembly and a head assembly. The method also includes positioning the head assembly of the anastomotic device adjacent a hollow tissue organ, inserting the head assembly of the anastomotic device into the hollow tissue organ, and discharging an inflation fluid through at least one fluid outlet and into the hollow tissue organ to insufflate at least a portion of the hollow tissue organ.
US09265497B2 Tissue access site system and method
A tissue access site system is provided. In one embodiments, the system includes a tissue cutting element designed for generating a tissue access site through a tissue, the tissue access site being surrounded by tissue edge portions of a predetermined geometry; and a tissue closure device being for attaching at least one closure element to the tissue at a region corresponding to at least one of the tissue edge portions.
US09265495B2 Flipp tack pusher
A device and method for pushing an anchor through a bore in a bone is provided with an elongated shaft, an anchor carrying assembly disposed at a distal end of the shaft for carrying an anchor, and a plunger disposed in the elongated shaft. The plunger is movable relative to the elongated shaft. First, threads are attached to the anchor. Then, the anchor is positioned in the anchor fastener, and the elongated shaft is placed next to the bore in the bone. Next, the plunger is inserted into the elongated shaft, and a force is exerted to on the plunger to move it in direction of the distal end of the elongated shaft such that a distal end of the plunger comes into contact with the anchor and pushes the anchor through the bore in the bone. Then, the threads attached to the anchor are pulled to position the anchor.
US09265489B2 Swallow expansion device
Methods and devices are disclosed for opening a passageway of a patient. The device includes a base plate for attachment to cricoid cartilage of the patient. A post extends from the base plate through the patient's skin. The post is pulled via a force to manually open the passageway.
US09265473B2 Method for estimating flow rates and pressure gradients in arterial networks from patient specific computed tomography angiogram-based contrast distribution data
An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a method for non-invasively determining the functional severity of arterial stenosis in a selected portion of an arterial network. The method includes gathering patient-specific data related to concentration of a contrast agent within an arterial network using a coronary computed tomography angiography scan (CCTA). The data can be gathered under rest or stress conditions. Estimation of a loss coefficient (K) can be used to eliminate the need for data gathered under stress. The data is used to calculate a transluminal attenuation gradient (TAG). The data may be corrected for imaging artifacts at any stage of the analysis. TAFE is used to determine an estimate of flow velocity. Once velocity is determined, pressure gradient, coronary flow reserve, and/or fractional flow reserve can be determined through a variety of methods. These estimates can be used to estimate functional severity of stenosis.
US09265472B2 Methods, systems, services and circuits for generating rapid preliminary reports with bone mineral density measurements and/or osteoporosis risk assessments
Methods, systems, services (Internet), computer programs and circuits provide rapid bone mineral density (BMD) measurements and/or osteoporosis information using an automated image analysis circuit that evaluates a hand X-ray of a patient from an X-ray device to generate a reliable bone density evaluation within about 15 minutes, typically within about 5 minutes with receipt of a hand X-ray, and more typically substantially instantaneous and under 1 minute. The automated image analysis circuit can reside on a remote preliminary review server.
US09265471B2 Determination of a multi-energy image
A method is disclosed for determining a multi-energy image via an x-ray device, including an x-ray source and an x-ray detector. The method includes a temporal sequence of individual steps. A first contrast agent-assisted image of an object area is first recorded with a first energy. Then a second contrast agent-assisted image of an object area is recorded with a second energy. A third recording of a third contrast agent-assisted image of the object area is now made with the first energy. By taking the temporal change in the contrast agent signal into account between the first and the third image, a multi-energy image is finally determined by means of the three recordings.
US09265465B2 Probes having deployable sites and methods for making the same
A probe for interfacing with biological tissue includes a shank. A site to receive a signal from or stimulate the biological tissue is deployably connected to the shank. An insulated interconnect is connected to the site to guide signals or a fluid between the site and the shank. An actuator displaces the site away from a protected position on the shank to a deployed position in the biological tissue to be monitored or stimulated by the site.
US09265451B2 Method and apparatus for determining spasticity
There is provided a system and a method for quantitative measurement of spasticity in a patient. It has been found that stretch reflex measurements, that are quantitatively indicative of spasticity, can be obtained by recording an EMG signal while the limb is being moved at a variety of angular velocities. The method advantageously allows the clinician to perform the test at the bedside by eliminating the need for cumbersome mechanical components for moving the limb while providing quantitative measurements.
US09265450B1 Proximity-based system for object tracking and automatic application initialization
A system and method provides for one or more of tracking of an object and providing automatic access to applications or data. Depending upon the embodiment, the system includes a personal digital key (PDK), a reader, a computing device and one or more of an auto login server and a tracking server. The PDK stores one or more profiles in memory. A reader is configured to wirelessly communicate with the PDK. The computing device is coupled to the reader and one or more of the auto login server and tracking server. The auto login server is configured to communicate with the reader and launches one or more applications associated with a user name identified by a profile received from the PDK. The tracking server is configured to communicate with the reader and to track and log information received from the PDK associated with the object.
US09265435B2 Multi-electrode sensing patch for long-term physiological monitoring with swappable electronics, radio and battery, and methods of use
Provided herein is an electrode device comprising an interface comprising at least one magnetic contact. The interface can be adaptable to be in communication with an electronic member, wherein the magnetic contact on the interface is adaptable to align and position the electronic member with respect to the interface. The interface can be further adaptable to remain affixed to a patient while an electronic member is removed and/or inserted from the interface. Further provided herein are methods of using the electrode device and kits.
US09265434B2 Dynamic feature rich anatomical reconstruction from a point cloud
3-dimensional cardiac reconstruction is carried out by catheterizing a heart using a probe with a mapping electrode, and acquiring electrical data from respective locations in regions of interest in the heart, representing the locations of the electrical data as a point cloud, reconstructing a model of the heart from the point cloud, applying a set of filters to the model to produce a filtered volume, segmenting the filtered volume to define components of the heart, and reporting the segmented filtered volume.
US09265431B2 Methods and apparatus for controlling neurostimulation using evoked physiologic events
A neurostimulation system provides for capture verification and stimulation intensity adjustment to ensure effectiveness of vagus nerve stimulation in modulating one or more target functions in a patient. In various embodiments, stimulation is applied to the vagus nerve, and evoked responses are detected to verify that the stimulation captures the vagus nerve and to adjust one or more stimulation parameters that control the stimulation intensity.
US09265430B2 Method, system and software product for the measurement of heart rate variability
The invention relates to a method, system, and software product for measuring heart rate variability. The method comprises instructing a user when to breathe in and breathe out, receiving a signal from a sensor responsive to the heart beat of the user, processing the received signal to determine heart beat intervals of the user and calculating a measure of heart rate variability of the user from the processed heart beat intervals.
US09265427B2 Systems and methods for determining patient temperature
A temperature probe includes a handle and a shaft extending from the handle. The shaft includes a distal end, a proximal end, and a tip at the distal end. The temperature probe also includes a capacitance sensor disposed on one of the handle and the shaft, the capacitance sensor configured to measure a change in capacitance when positioned proximate a conductor. The temperature probe further includes a temperature sensor disposed on the shaft, the temperature sensor configured to measure a body cavity temperature of a patient.
US09265426B2 Sanitary cover sleeve for medical device with electrical contact
A disposable cover sleeve serves is used to cover an electronic or optical medical device used for patient examination and/or treatment. The cover sleeve provides an environmental barrier for the medical device during patient examination to prevent environmental cross-contamination of different patients examined with the same medical device. The cover sleeve has an integrated device activation means such as a flexible contact bridge. The device activation means has an open and closed position. The open position is not in physical, electronic or magnetic contact with the control electronics of the medical device; whereas, the closed position closes a field or circuit between a first and second contact to selectively actuate or provide input to the control electronics that communicate with the radiation source.
US09265423B2 Metallic object MR imaging quality control system
A system assesses quality of an image of human anatomical components in the presence of a metallic object. The system comprises an image processor for selecting an imaging protocol to use in imaging a test unit in response to data indicating a metal type employed in the test unit. The test unit includes, at least one object of the metal type used for a medical implant, an object comprising water and an object representing human fat. The water object and fat object are less than 3 centimeters, for example, distant from the metal object.
US09265420B2 Method of auditory training and a hearing aid system
A method of auditory training for hearing impaired persons, wherein a trainee is prompted to arrange a set of melodies based on a musical feature shared by some of the melodies, a hearing aid system (100), and a computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable instructions adapted to carry out a method of auditory training.
US09265405B2 Endoscope system
An insertion portion, a function portion, an operation portion, a universal cord, a connection connector, a drive member that generates a drive force for causing the function portion to act, a connection portion that is provided at the connection connector and has the drive member connected thereto, and a drive force transmitting member that is inserted through the universal cord, and transmits the drive force generated by the drive member connected to the connection portion to the function portion are included.
US09265402B2 Dishwasher rack assembly with support for large and small bowls
A dishwasher appliance having a rack assembly that can provide support for both large and small bowls is provided. The rack assembly includes tines, referred to herein as vertical members, that can hold both large and small bowls in a vertical orientation. The rack assembly may be used in a dishwasher to provide the upper rack, lower rack, or both.
US09265401B2 Rotating filter for a dishwashing machine
A dishwasher with a tub at least partially defining a washing chamber, a liquid spraying system, a liquid recirculation system defining a recirculation flow path, and a liquid filtering system. The liquid filtering system includes a rotating filter disposed in the recirculation flow path to filter the liquid.
US09265393B2 Vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner is provided, including a dirt collection container, a suction unit for acting on the dirt collection container with negative pressure via a suction chamber, at least one filter element arranged between the dirt collection container and the suction chamber in the flow direction of the air sucked in by the suction unit, a filter cover covering the filter element on the clean space side, at least one rechargeable battery for providing electrical energy for the suction unit, and at least one battery receptacle. The vacuum cleaner can further include a battery lid, which includes the at least one battery receptacle, and which is arranged above the filter cover, the battery lid being transferable from a closed position in which it covers the filter cover to an open position in which a user has access on the clean space side to the filter cover, and vice versa.
US09265390B2 Toilet seal system
A seal for use with a toilet bowl has a horizontal lip with a horizontal ledge beneath the lip. An annular base of the seal is positioned upon the lip. The interior edge of the seal is positioned upon the lip above the interior surface of the toilet bowl. The exterior edge is positioned upon the lip above the exterior surface of the toilet bowl. The central extent of the seal is spaced above the lip. The lower end of an upstanding finger of the seal is integrally formed with the base above the central extent. The upstanding finger has a lower extent in a linear configuration extending outwardly from the vertical.
US09265387B2 Electric incinerating toilet bowl and incineration control method for electric incinerating toilet bowl
The present invention provides an electric incinerating toilet bowl and an incineration control method for the electric incinerating toilet bowl which can remove not only odor components but also smoke and soot generated when paper liners burn to thereby prevent the odor components and the smoke and soot from being exhausted. The incineration control method heats a smoke and soot removing filler layer to a smoke and soot removing temperature not lower than 350° C. by actuating a filler heating heater in response to input of a treatment start signal, carries out an incineration treatment by actuating an incinerating heater and an exhaust blower when a temperature of the smoke and soot removing filler layer has risen to a smoke and soot removing temperature, stops the incinerating heater and the filler heating heater when a temperature of an incineration chamber rises to a preset incineration treatment end temperature, and stops the exhaust blower when a temperature in the electric incinerating toilet bowl has dropped to a preset exhaust end temperature after the stop of the incinerating heater.
US09265386B2 Device for dispensing pre-cut wiping materials
This machine includes a flap and a cover having a plurality of opposite-facing pairs of matching shapes comprising grooves and ribs capable of interlocking with each other after the cover has been closed. A strip of material is unwound between the flap and the internal wall of the cover without lateral deformation and projects from the matching shapes. The shapes are directly designed or have an additional element for reducing the space between certain portions of ribs and grooves in order to allow and encourage the separation of a piece of strip of material when it is pulled by the user.
US09265383B2 Liquid dispensing units
A soap dispenser can be configured to dispense an amount of liquid soap, for example, upon detecting the presence of an object. Certain embodiments of the dispenser include a housing, reservoir, pump, motor, sensor, electronic processor, and nozzle. In certain embodiments, the sensor can be configured to generate a signal based on a distance between an object and the sensor. In certain embodiments, the electronic processor can be configured to receive the signal from the sensor and to determine a dispensation volume of the liquid. The dispensation volume can vary as a function of the distance between the object and the sensor. The processor can be configured to control the motor to dispense approximately the dispensation volume of the liquid.
US09265380B2 Method of using a cooking appliance
A method is provided of using a cooking appliance having a first heating assembly having a first cooking surface, a second heating assembly having a second cooking surface, and a guide post. The method includes causing the guide post to be placed into a receiving aperture. The method further includes translating the first heating assembly from a first operative position to a second operative position, wherein the placement of the guide post into the receiving aperture causes the first heating assembly to translate in a substantially linear manner and to be maintained substantially parallel to the second heating assembly during translation of the first heating assembly from the first operative position to the second operative position. The method also includes removing the guide post from the receiving aperture and causing the guide post to be placed in a resting aperture.
US09265377B2 Coffee beverage system, coffee bean packaging cartridge for use with said system, method of preparing a beverage, method for brewing coffee, method of supplying coffee beans, cartridge for coffee bean material, method of supplying coffee bean material
Cartridge for holding and supplying coffee bean material. The cartridge includes a housing enclosing an interior volume. The housing has an outlet for releasing the coffee bean material from the interior volume and for supplying the coffee bean material to an external apparatus. The cartridge further includes a conveyor for transporting the coffee bean material towards the outlet. The conveyor include a moveable structure for contacting the coffee bean material. The moveable structure is, at least partly, present in the interior volume. The conveyor further include manually operable actuation component for manually actuating the moveable structure. The manually operable actuation component is, at least partly, provided outside of the interior volume.
US09265373B2 Garment hanger with reusable lower neck sizer
In a combination of a garment hanger and a reusable indicator for displaying garment-related information, the indicator can be attached to and removed from a lower neck region of the hanger where a hanger post intersects the hanger body. The hanger includes an indicator retaining member for providing indicator retaining interference with the indicator to retain the indicator at the lower neck region. The hanger further includes structure for providing pivots upon which the indicator can be flexed to remove the indicator from the hanger. The indicator can include a discontinuity for admitting a hanger hook and assisting deformation of the indicator. The indicator can be deformed along the discontinuity to remove the indicator from the hanger.
US09265367B2 Surround for plants, trees, and post
An ornamental surround is positioned around the base of an upright structure, such as a plant, shrub, tree, post, or pole. When assembled, the ornamental surround has the outward appearance of a plant pot or planter. Further provided is a combination comprising the ornamental surround, a kit comprising the ornamental surround, and a method of installing the ornamental surround around the base of an upright structure.
US09265365B2 Methods and assemblies for displaying images
Methods and assemblies are provided for displaying a plurality of images, which can be minor images of each other. The method includes providing a first display object having a first image on it and providing a second display object having a second image on it. The first and second images are mirror images of each other. The first and second display objects are positioned such that the images are displayed in a first mirrored registration. After doing so, the first and second display objects are repositioned such that the first and second images are displayed in a second mirrored registration. Assemblies can include at least one mount, a first display object having a first image disposed thereon, and a second display object having a second image disposed thereon, the images being minor images of each other. The first and second display objects are movably attached to the mount.
US09265363B2 Point of sale display
A point-of-sale display unit for engagement with a cantilevered support member has at least one shelf and a base member. The base member defines a track configured to receive a portion of the cantilevered support member. The unit engages with the cantilevered beam through a sliding arrangement and is rigidly maintained thereon through a combination of various mechanical forces in a position without obstructing access to the primary load held and displayed by the cantilevered system.
US09265359B2 Refrigerated display appliances
A refrigerated display unit (1), having an open-fronted cabinet providing a product display space (3) accessible through an access opening (39) provided by the open front. Cooling means (27) produces cold air to refrigerate items in the product display space (3). A cold air curtain is provided across the access opening (39) using a forwardly-positioned discharge outlet (5) communicating with a supply duct (45) and a forwardly-positioned return inlet (7) in communication with a return duct (41) receiving air from the air curtain (9). The air curtain (9) is substantially unsupported by any supplementary cooling airflow supplied into the product display space (3) separately from the air curtain (9).
US09265354B2 Modular support element
A modular supporting element has a supporting surface for a user and includes a plurality of elastic modules, suitable for being deformed according to a direction substantially perpendicular to the supporting surface of the user. Each module has a side surface and an upper portion, wherein the modules are arranged juxtaposed to each other with the side surfaces substantially in contact or with the side surfaces at such a distance as not to prevent contact between one module and another during the elastic deformation movement. The modules have anti-friction surfaces arranged in a part of the side surface of the modules in such a way as to prevent interferences by friction between one module and another. The modular supporting element is made up of a plurality of modules with different rigidity from area to area without any appreciable influence between one module and another.
US09265342B2 Rotary bearing of a rotary fitting of a cupboard
A rotary bearing for rotably supporting an article-carrying member at a supporting column of a rotary fitting of a cupboard comprises a supporting member having a first component and a second component movably connected to each other. In a closed state of the supporting member, the first and the second component together define a cylinder envelope shaped inner surface encircling an aperture of the supporting member; and they together provide a circular track at a top face of the supporting member. In an open state of the supporting member, the first and the second component provide an access opening to the aperture that has a width of at least about the diameter of the cylinder envelope shaped inner surface. A pin is fixed at one of its ends to the first component of the supporting member, and it extends from the first component of the supporting member into the aperture.
US09265336B2 Rotatable roll brush
A rotatable roll brush that despite combing tangled hair, the hair does not get removed due to the rotation of the brush body part, and when a combing action is required without the rotation of the body part, the brush can be converted and used as a regular brush.
US09265334B1 Bottle brush
A bottle brush cleaning device includes a container cleaning element, a nipple cleaning element, and one or more additional cleaning elements. Each cleaning element extends from an ergonomically shaped base that is easy to grasp with one hand and manipulate use of each of the cleaning elements. In one embodiment, the ergonomically shaped base is configured to be placed upright on a supporting surface such that each of the cleaning elements is at least semi-vertically positioned away from the supporting surface in order to air dry without contamination from contact with other objects or surfaces. In a preferred embodiment, two additional cleaning elements extend from the base, wherein the additional cleaning elements each include brushes having dissimilarly sized diameters in order to allow for cleaning of varyingly sized articles, such as a straw or other tubular-shaped article.
US09265333B2 Anti-loose interdental brush
An anti-loose interdental brush includes a plurality of fixing portions formed on a bristle stem of an interdental brush. Each fixing portion includes a bottom wall, a side wall formed laterally from the bottom wall, and a capacity area surrounded by the bottom wall and the side wall. The adjacent bottom walls of the adjacent fixing portions are orientated in different directions. Thus, the adjacent capacity areas are set in different directions to contact the handle. An outer diameter of the bottom wall can be preferably larger than or equal to an outer diameter of the bristle stem. Accordingly, a dual engaging and fixing effect between the bristle stem and the handle is attained to prevent the bristle stem from loosening and rotating due to an external force and to enhance safety in using.
US09265329B1 Hammock
A hammock without spreader bars comprises a plurality of fabric panels. The fabric panels consist of cutout sections of a micromesh fabric of substantially biconvex form, which are attached to one another at their edges to form a bed. The biconvex fabric panels are joined, preferably sewn, to one another in a pretensioning position along the line at which the individual sections of fabric are joined, whereby in its suspended state the bed of the hammock is substantially open, i.e. laterally extended.
US09265326B2 Support casing for a cosmetic article and associated production method
A casing is provided that comprises a base (30), a lid (32) which is movable between a closure configuration. The base (30) and the lid (32) delimit an internal volume for receiving a cosmetic article and a configuration for access to the receiving volume. It comprises an insert (36) arranged in the receiving volume, the insert (36) being movable relative to the base (30) and relative to the lid (32) towards an intermediate position which is disengaged from the base (30) and disengaged from the lid (32) in the access configuration. The casing (10) comprises a releasable retainer (40) for retaining the insert (36) by friction in a position engaged on the lid (32), the lid (32) being capable of moving the insert (36) by means of the friction type retainer (40) over at least a portion of the travel of the lid (32) between the closure and access configurations.
US09265305B2 Easy access articles of footwear
Articles of footwear, including athletic footwear, may include: (a) an upper including an opening through which a leg of a wearer extends, wherein the upper includes a foot insertion opening extending rearwardly and downwardly from a front portion of the leg opening at least to a heel area of the upper; (b) a closure system for releasably closing the foot insertion opening and optionally tightening the shoe on the foot; and (c) a sole structure engaged with the upper. The foot insertion opening widely opens the side and/or rear area of the shoe to allow for easy insertion and removal of a foot. Such uppers can be particularly useful for hightop athletic footwear, boots, or other footwear that extends up to or at least partially over a wearer's ankles.
US09265294B2 Methods and apparatus for affixing hardware to garments
Methods and apparatus are provided for affixing hardware components to garments. Hardware components are provided with an operative component and an adhesive surface. The operative component interacts with one or more other operative components and/or with one or more other features of the garment (e.g. with cords, straps or the like connected to the garment and/or with the fabric of the garment) and/or with one or more external devices. The adhesive surface is bonded to a corresponding surface of a fabric layer of the garment using an adhesive located between the adhesive surface and the corresponding surface of the fabric layer.
US09265286B2 Filtration agents and methods of use thereof
Provided herein are compositions for removal of contaminants from an air stream. The composition contains a filtration agent having one or more components that can adsorb tar or other contaminants from smoke. Also provided is a method for removing a contaminant from an air stream. Also provided are a system and a kit employing the filtration agent.
US09265278B2 Methods for decarbonating fermented liquids
A method of decarbonating fermented liquids in-line may include directing a carbonated malt-based liquid through a nozzle, and directing the carbonated malt-based liquid from the nozzle into a space maintained at a partial vacuum pressure. The method may further include maintaining the carbonated malt-based beverage in the space until substantially all of the carbon dioxide dissolved within the carbonated malt-based beverage has been removed to provide a non-carbonated liquid, and removing the non-carbonated liquid from the space at substantially the same rate that the carbonated malt-based liquid is directed into the space.
US09265277B2 Multicarotenoid beadlets and related method
A controlled release beadlet that sequentially releases carotenoids over time within the gastrointestinal tract of a subject, as well as a method of administering the carotenoids. The beadlet provides a specific ratio of carotenoids which release from the beadlet at preselected times during passage through the gastrointestinal tract. The method includes releasing the carotenoids in preselected ratios at specific time intervals in the gastrointestinal tract to mitigate competition between the carotenoids for their uptake, and/or to potentially maximize the uptake of individual carotenoids within a mixed carotenoid formulation.
US09265269B2 Process for making a shelf-stable milk based beverage concentrate
A concentrate, system and low-temperature process for preparing a shelf-stable milk concentrate that does not require ultra-high temperature thermal processing for control of the microbiology of the product is disclosed herein. The method preferably incorporates aseptic technology and the enzymatic reduction of lactose to control water activity. The method preferably includes the enzymatic conversion of the lactose in the milk to its component sugars glucose and galactose, which preferably changes the colligative properties of the concentrate, decreases the amount of free water, and reduces the osmolarity.
US09265268B2 Method of handling bananas
There is provided a method of storing bananas comprising the steps of (a) exposing said bananas to an atmosphere that contains one or more ethylene-active compound, and (b) after said step (a), exposing said bananas to an atmosphere that contains one or more cyclopropene compound while said bananas have color stage 2 to 6 on the seven-stage scale, wherein said bananas are kept in a modified-atmosphere package for a time period that includes at least a time interval that lasts for 1 hour, wherein said time interval begins between the conclusion of said step (b) and 72 hours from the conclusion of said step (b), and wherein said modified-atmosphere package is constructed so that the transmission rate of carbon dioxide for the entire package (PCT) is from 2,400 to 120,000 cubic centimeters per day per kilogram of bananas.
US09265259B2 Use of sulfamic acid or its salts as stabilizers especially in combination with ammonium salt and/or ammine for bleach or other halogen containing biocides in the paper area
The invention is directed to compositions and methods of their use as effective biocidal agents for water streams. The composition comprises a halogen source, halogen stabilizers containing a sulfur bearing species and ammonium salts/urea, and an alkali. The sulfur bearing species includes sulfamic acid or its salt equivalent. By having optimized mixing ratio of halogen to stabilizer and that of ammonium salts to sulfamic acid or sulfamate, a synergistic effect occurs which both increases the efficacy of the composition as a biocide and it avoids adverse impacts on other chemicals that are present in the water stream. Best of all the composition is easy to form and easy to introduce into a water stream of concern. Its introduction can be as simple as mixing two containers of reagent prior to introduction to the water process stream.
US09265239B2 Deep diving fishing lure
A deep diving fishing lure having a forwardly-extending diving lip is provided with a fore-and-aft pivotable lure positioning arm pivotably mounted about a pivot axis within the diving lip near the lower portion of the forward face. The lure positioning arm, when fixed in an aft position relative to the pivot axis rests within a longitudinally extending groove located in the diving lip. The lure positioning arm, when in the fixed aft position maintains the lure in a diving position when pulled through a body of water but negates the lure's tendency to dive when released from the aft position.
US09265238B2 MMTV-SV40-Spy1A and Spy1A-pTRE transgenic mouse models
In one aspect, the invention provides a transgenic non-human animal model having germ cells and somatic cells containing an endogenous MMTV-SV40-Spy1A gene sequence introduced into said animal model or an ancestor of said animal model at an embryonic stage, wherein said gene sequence comprises a mouse mammary tumor virus gene (MMTV), a functionally disrupted SV40 gene (SV40) and a human Spy1A gene. In another aspect, the present invention provides a transgenic non-human animal model whose germ cells and somatic cells contain an endogenous Spy1A-pTRE-Tight gene sequence introduced into said animal model or an ancestor of said animal model at an embryonic stage. Preferably, the Spy1A-pTRE-Tight animal model expresses the Spy1A gene and develop cancer, preferably breast cancer, when administered with tetracycline, preferably doxycycline.
US09265237B2 Bird feeder with moveable shield
A bird feeder which comprises a seed container, a cover, a seed tray below the seed container to receive seeds therefrom, and a shield which is secured to the seed container, the shield being spaced above said seed tray a distance sized to restrict access of certain sized birds to the seed tray.
US09265225B2 Lettuce variety 45-149 RZ
The present invention relates to a Lactuca sativa seed designated 45-149 RZ, which exhibits resistance to downy mildew (Bremia lactucae) races Bl:1-28 Ca-I to Ca-VIII, and strains F837 and USA927, resistance to currant-lettuce aphid (Nasonovia ribisnigri), moderately glossy leaves, and a medium head size. The present invention also relates to a Lactuca sativa plant produced by growing the 45-149 RZ seed. The invention further relates to methods for producing the lettuce cultivar, represented by lettuce variety 45-149 RZ.
US09265222B1 Maize inbred PH1TWS
A novel maize variety designated PH1TWS and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1TWS with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1TWS through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1TWS or a locus conversion of PH1TWS with another maize variety.
US09265213B2 Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH693571
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH693571. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH693571, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH693571 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH693571.
US09265210B2 Pepper hybrid SV8066HJ
The invention provides seed and plants of pepper hybrid SV8066HJ and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of pepper hybrid SV8066HJ and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a pepper plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another pepper plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants.
US09265208B2 Pepper hybrid SV3198HJ
The invention provides seed and plants of pepper hybrid SV3198HJ and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of pepper hybrid SV3198HJ and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a pepper plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another pepper plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants.
US09265206B2 Method of producing hybrid seeds for annual cotton by cultivating perennially
A method of producing hybrid seeds for annual cotton by cultivating perennially, including the steps of: 1) planting annual cotton parent strains for hybridization and identifying the natural wintering capability thereof; 2) for annual cotton parent strains incapable of wintering naturally, taking a perennial cotton capable of wintering naturally as a rootstock and the annual cotton incapable of wintering naturally as a scionwood for grafting, and carrying out the perennial root culture of the obtained grafted plant; for annual cotton parent strains capable of wintering naturally, directly planting the strains and carrying out the perennial root culture of seedling plants thereof, or carrying out the perennial root culture of grafted plants thereof obtained according to the above grafting method; and (3) hybridizing the seedling plants and/or the grafted plants to produce seeds in the year of planting and/or grafting and period of perennial cultivation.
US09265201B2 Plant tray
A horticulture tray including a growing cell. The growing cell includes a first end, a second end, a sidewall, and a plant supporting portion. The first end defines a first aperture having a first diameter. The second end is opposite the first end and has a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. The sidewall extends between the first end and the second end, and the sidewall continuously tapers from the first end to the second end. The plant supporting portion is proximate to the second end, but spaced apart from the second end. The plant supporting portion is configured to support a plant within the growing cell apart from the second end. The growing cell promotes proper root structure by supporting stabilized growth plugs therein without horizontal surfaces and by creating a perimeter gap such that air can circulate around the growth plugs to air prune roots.
US09271425B1 Industrial server system
The present invention relates to an industrial server system, comprising a housing, a backplane, at least one rear board, a first front board, a second front board, and a power supply, wherein the backplane and the power supply are disposed in the housing, and the rear board, the first front board, and the second front board are coupled and configured to the backplane. Four connected blocks are disposed on the backplane, which makes that at least one rear board, the first front board, and the second front board are able to communicate to each other by a plurality of data connecting units disposed on the backplane. The rear board, the first front board, and the second front board of the present invention can achieve a great transmission efficiency by a specific configuration of connected block on the backplane.
US09271422B2 Drive apparatus
A drive apparatus includes a power module, a connector and a heat sink. The connector is used for electric connection to an external side and has a flange, which is formed on its peripheral wall. The heat sink is formed to have a module holding part for holding the power module and a fitting hole for fitting with the flange and has a connector holding part for holding a connector. The flange is formed along a first surface, which faces the connector holding part of the peripheral wall, and side surfaces, which are formed on both sides of the first surface. Thus, water droplets are prevented from entering into a control unit through a clearance between the connector and the heat sink without adding other members such as a water preventing cover.
US09271410B2 Anti-tamper device
An anti-tamper device for preventing data from being tampered with by an unauthorized person includes a top cover, a bottom cover, a printed circuit board (PCB), and a signal connector. The bottom cover is assembled to the top cover. The PCB has a plurality of terminal couplers. The signal connector is fastened to the top cover, and the signal connector defines a plurality of terminal grooves. At least one of the terminal grooves receives a terminal. When the terminals are electrically connected to the terminal couplers, a first relation signal is generated to enable the anti-tamper device. When the terminals are not connected to the corresponding terminal couplers, a second relation signal different from the first relation signal is generated by the PCB to make the anti-tamper device unable to work.
US09271409B2 Terminal device
The present invention discloses a terminal device, comprising a first terminal part and a second terminal part, the first terminal part comprising a base part; a keyboard part on the a first region of the base part; a bracket part on a second region of the base part adjacent to the first region, wherein, the thickness of the keyboard part matches the thickness of the bracket part; a first shaft on a side of the base part away from the keyboard part and connected with the bracket part so that the bracket part can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to the first shaft; a second shaft on a side of the bracket part away from the first shaft and connected with the second terminal part, so that the second terminal part can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to the second shaft.
US09271405B2 Flex-rigid wiring board and method of manufacturing the same
A method of manufacturing a flex-rigid wiring board includes positioning a flexible board and a non-flexible substrate adjacent to each other, forming a metal layer over the flexible board such that the metal layer is formed to stop laser irradiation from reaching into the flexible board, forming an insulating layer such that the insulating layer covers the metal layer, the flexible board and the non-flexible substrate, irradiating laser upon the insulating layer such that a portion of the insulating layer covering the metal layer is cut; and removing the portion of the insulating layer covering the metal layer from the flexible board such that at least a portion of the flexible board is exposed.
US09271404B2 Circuit board and manufacturing method thereof
A circuit board includes a circuit board plate, a conductive ring, a solder mask and at least one insulating pad. The circuit board plate includes a surface and a conductive through hole passing through the surface and the circuit board plate, wherein the conductive through hole have a conductive layer disposed on a wall thereof. The conductive ring on the surface surrounds an opening of the conductive through hole on the surface and electrically connects to the conductive layer. The solder mask is disposed on the surface. The conductive ring is exposed outside of the solder mask. The insulating pad has a thickness. The first surface of the insulating pad is adapted to contact the solder mask or the surface and sited at periphery of the conductive ring. The second surface of the insulating pad is adapted for spacing a distance between a solder coating tool and the solder mask.
US09271399B2 Electronic module and method for the production thereof
The invention relates to an electronic module, a support plate (2) having a base area (20) and at least one connection element (21). Said connection element (21) is a part of the base area (20) and is arranged at an angle (a) to the base area (20), in addition to at least one electronic component (3), in particular a sensor, which is arranged in the connection element (21).
US09271394B2 Transparent electrode sheet, method for manufacturing transparent electrode sheet, and capacitive touch panel using such transparent electrode sheet
A transparent electrode sheet includes a transparent support having thereon patterned electrodes, and an absolute value of a difference between a reflection chromaticity of a surface of the electrode of far side from the transparent support and a reflection chromaticity of a surface of the electrode of near side to the transparent support is not more than 2.
US09271393B2 Multilayer wiring base plate and probe card using the same
A multilayer wiring base plate includes an insulating plate including a plurality of synthetic resin layers made of an insulating material, a wiring circuit provided in the insulating plate, a thin-film resistor formed along at least one of the synthetic resin layers to be buried in the synthetic resin layer and inserted in the wiring circuit, and a heat expansion and contraction restricting layer formed to be buried in the synthetic resin layer adjacent to the synthetic resin layer in which the thin-film resistor is formed to be buried, arranged along the thin-film resistor, and having a smaller linear expansion coefficient than a linear expansion coefficient of the adjacent synthetic resin layers.
US09271390B2 Semiconductor device with active shielding of leads
A semiconductor device has a multi-wire lead and a die having a multi-site bond pad. A shielding wire and a guarded wire both extend from the multi-wire lead to the multi-site bond pad. The shielding wire (or wires) provide active shielding to the guarded wire by simultaneously transmitting the same signal as the guarded wire between the multi-wire lead the multi-site bond pad.
US09271379B2 Redundant operation of a backlight unit of a display device under open circuit or short circuit LED string conditions
Disclosed embodiments relate to techniques for operating a backlight unit of a display device in a redundant mode and a non-redundant mode in the event of an open circuit condition or short string condition. For instance, in a redundant mode, multiple LED strings are driven to provide a first quantity of light, such that the combined output from all LED strings is capable of providing a total light output corresponding to a maximum brightness setting for the display device. In the case that one of the LED strings fails due to an open circuit condition or short string condition, the remaining LED strings may be driven to provide a second quantity of light that is greater than the first, such that the combined light output from the remaining LED strings provides the same total light output for achieving the maximum brightness setting.
US09271368B2 Method and apparatus for providing a passive color control scheme using blue and red emitters
A lighting device capable of generating warm or neutral white light using blue light-emitting diodes (“LEDs”), red LEDs, and/or luminescent material that responds to blue LED emission is disclosed. The lighting device includes multiple first solid-state light-emitting structures (“SLSs”), second SLSs, and balancing resistor element. The first SLS such as a string of blue LED dies connected in series is able to convert electrical energy to blue optical light, which is partially turned into longer wavelength emission by the luminescent material. The second SLS such as a red LED die is configured to convert electrical energy to red optical light, wherein the second SLSs are connected in series. While the first SLSs and second SLSs are coupled in parallel, the balancing resistor element provides load balance for current redistribution between the first and second SLSs in response to fluctuation of operating temperature.
US09271364B2 Method and apparatus for integrated lighting control according to power reserve stage
Disclosed is a method and apparatus for integrally controlling lighting according to the status of power reserve stages. The apparatus for integrally controlling lighting according to power reserve stage, comprises: a lighting control result receiver for receiving lighting control result data generated by integrating a lighting identification number and control result information of the LED light source the brightness of which is controlled according to power reserve stage-based lighting control information; a power reserve stage determination unit for determining a power reserve stage based on the received lighting control result data; and a power reserve stage issuer for transmitting the determined power reserve stage to the lighting controller in real time.
US09271355B2 Switching power supply controller
In an example embodiment, a controller generates a switch signal for controlling a switch to convert an input signal from a phase cut dimmer into a driving signal for a solid state lighting element. The controller determines a conduction period of the input signal from the phase cut dimmer within a half cycle period of the input signal, determines a burst period within the conduction period is a period of time less than the conduction period, and generates a switch signal comprising a plurality of switching cycles over the burst period. The switch signal has first and second subsets of switching cycles. The controller controls the switching cycles of the second subset such that the average energy transferred per switching cycle to the driving signal is less than the average energy transferred per switching cycle to the driving signal for the switching cycles of the first subset.
US09271354B2 Lighting source and lighting apparatus
A straight tube LED lamp according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a first LED array including first LED elements connected in series; a second LED array that includes second LED elements connected in series, and emits light having a different emission color from an emission color of the first LED array; a FET switch provided in a path through which current flows to the second LED array; and a constant power output circuit that outputs power without changing a total value of the power, wherein the number of the first LED elements connected in series is greater than the number of the second LED elements connected in series, a total forward voltage of the first LED array is greater than a total forward voltage of the second LED array, and the first LED elements are in alignment with the second LED elements.
US09271351B2 Circuits and methods for controlling current in a light emitting diode array
In one embodiment, a circuit comprises a current source to produce current to a light emitting diode array. An analog dimming circuit generates a continuous control signal to the current source to control the current in the light emitting diode array according to a range of control signal values when the control signal is above a threshold. Below the threshold, a digital modulation circuit generates an additional modulated digital signal to the current source to control the current in the light emitting diode array according to a range of modulation values when the continuous control signal is below the threshold. The continuous control signal produces current from the current source into the light emitting diode array above a first value. The combination of the continuous control signal and the modulated digital signal produces current in the light emitting diode array below the first value.
US09271339B2 Microwave oven
Disclosed is a microwave oven provided with: a heating chamber (2) for housing the object to be cooked therein; a magnetron (7) that oscillates by having a voltage applied thereto, and generates a microwave to be supplied to the heating chamber (2); a radio wave sensor (11) for detecting the microwave generated by the magnetron (7); a timer (15) for measuring an oscillation starting time that is a period of time from when the voltage is applied to the magnetron (7) to when the microwave is detected by the radio wave sensor (11) due to the oscillation; and a notification unit (6) for sending a notice about the timing at which the magnetron (7) should be exchanged. When the oscillation starting time becomes longer than a prescribed period of time, a notice about that fact is sent by the notification unit (6).
US09271333B2 Demand side management control system and methods
A demand side management control system and method for altering power consumption on an electrical device during specified periods of time (e.g., peak energy demand periods). The system includes a memory to store two or more power consuming function profiles corresponding to the one or more power consuming functions associated with the electrical device. The system also includes at least one processor coupled with the memory. The processor is programmed to receive a peak energy demand signal and access the power consuming function profiles associated with the electrical device. The processor identifies, based on the received peak energy demand signal, the one of two or more power consuming function profiles to be implemented in the electrical device. Finally, the processor periodically disables or operates at a reduced power level at least one power consuming function according to the identified power consuming function profile.
US09271321B2 Providing device-to-device connectivity by determining communication preferences in real-time
A device may determine a condition for providing customer information to a mobile device. The device may detect the mobile device, and may request, from the mobile device and based on detecting the mobile device, information that identifies a user communication preference associated with providing the customer information to the mobile device. The device may receive, from the mobile device and based on the request, the information that identifies the user communication preference. The device may determine whether the customer information is to be provided to the mobile device based on the user communication preference and the condition, and may selectively provide the customer information and an instruction to the mobile device based on determining whether the customer information is to be provided to the mobile device. The instruction may cause the mobile device to relay the customer information to a network storage device.
US09271318B2 Internet protocol address registration
A computer program product implemented in an Internet Protocol (IP) edge node positioned in a fixed access network, the computer program product comprising computer executable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium such that when executed by a processor cause the IP edge node to receive an address registration request from a residential gateway (RG), wherein the address registration request comprises an IP version six (IPv6) address of a third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) visiting mobile host connected to a local fixed network associated with the RG and a host identifier (ID) assigned to the visiting host and not to any other host in the local fixed network; establish an IP Connectivity Access Network (IP-CAN) session for the visiting host; and manage quality of service (QoS) for the visiting host independently of other hosts in the local fixed network by managing the visiting host IP-CAN session.
US09271311B1 Methods and systems for automated activation and configuration of broadband incident area networks (IANs)
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for automated activation and configuration of broadband LTE IANs. A mobile IAN base station, an activated mode and a dormant mode, determines at least one location in a local region of the mobile IAN base station while in the dormant mode. An activation-permission request is submitted to a geo-location-database (GDB) function, and the mobile IAN base station receives an activation-permission response. The response is based on an expected level of wide-area-network (WAN) coverage associated with the determined location. Responsive to receiving an activation-permission grant, the mobile IAN base station transitions to the activated mode. Responsive to not receiving an activation-permission grant, the mobile IAN base station remains in the dormant mode.
US09271305B2 Method and apparatus for controlling serving grant of user terminal of neighboring cell
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, an apparatus, and a system for controlling a serving grant of a user terminal (UE) of a neighboring cell. The method is used for controlling a UE in a CELL-FACH state or in an idle state of a neighboring cell through a common E-RGCH. The method includes: obtaining a control command by monitoring the common E-RGCH of the neighboring cell; determining whether the UE satisfies at least one further configured controlled condition; and when the UE satisfies the at least one controlled condition, adjusting the serving grant of the UE based on the obtained control command. Through the method and the apparatus according to the embodiments of the present invention, throughput of the UE may be prevented from being reduced excessively, thereby improving communication performance.
US09271302B2 Network-managed direct device to device communications
Systems, apparatuses, and methods for network-managed direct device to device communications are provided. Certain aspects of the disclosure involve receiving, at a first UE, UE1 configuration information for an inter-device session (IDS) between the first UE and a second UE, UE1 configuration information including a radio network identifier. A control message configured with the radio network identifier and a radio resource identifier for the IDS can be received. The radio resource identifier corresponds to a radio resource for transmitting data directly from the first UE to the second UE during the IDS.
US09271295B2 Method and device for generating reference signal in cellular mobile communication system
A method of transmitting a reference signal in a mobile communication system is provided. The method includes determining at least three scrambling variables comprising a first scrambling variable, a second scrambling variable, and a third scrambling variable, wherein the first scrambling variable, the second scrambling variable, and the third scrambling variable are different from each other, determining whether a demodulation reference signal is for more than or equal to 3-layer transmission, generating, if the demodulation reference signal is for more than or equal to 3-layer transmission, the demodulation reference signal sequence using the third scrambling variable and transmitting the demodulation reference signal sequence through a corresponding antenna port.
US09271284B2 Terminal and response signal transmission method
This invention is related to a terminal apparatus that can normally transmit an upstream response signal. A response signal generating unit (212); generates response signals on the basis of a setting rule in which pattern candidates of success or failure in the reception of downstream allocation control information and downstream data are associated with the phase points of response signals and further in which the phase point of one response signal associated with an arbitrary pattern of success or failure in the reception during the second communication has been set to be identical with the phase points of two response signals associated with pattern candidates for which the pattern of success or failure in the reception at PCC during the first communication is identical with the arbitrary pattern and for which all of the receptions of downstream allocation control information have been failed at SCC.
US09271283B2 Method and user equipment for transmitting channel state information and method and base station for receiving channel state information
The present invention provides a method and a device for transmitting or receiving channel state information (CSI). According to the present invention, when a user equipment can be set with one or more CSI processes per serving cell, a CSI request field included in downlink control information for a specific serving cell indicates at least whether a non-periodic CSI report triggered by the CSI request field is triggered for a set of CSI process(es) set by a higher layer from among the CSI process(es) for the one serving cell.
US09271282B2 Method of control signaling transmission and reception for user equipment in a LTE communication system
A method implemented in a base station used in a wireless communications system is disclosed. The method includes transmitting, to a user equipment (UE), an indication of a type of enhanced physical downlink control channel (ePDCCH) transmission, where the type of ePDCCH transmission comprises either localized transmission or distributed transmission, and transmitting, to the UE, an indication of the number of physical resource block (PRB) pairs allocated for the ePDCCH transmission, where the indication of the number of PRB pairs allocated for the ePDCCH transmission is conveyed in 2 or 3 bits. Other methods, apparatuses, and systems also are disclosed.
US09271266B2 Searching for control channels in a wireless network
A user equipment (UE) may receive an OFDM signal having control channel elements (CCEs). The CCEs may be arranged in levels where a first level aggregates less CCEs than a second level. A processor may search for a control channel from control channel candidates that is comprised of the CCEs. A limited number of CCEs may be searched on the first level.
US09271260B2 Enabling receive diversity during paging channel timeline operation
Enabling receive diversity based on detecting incorrect paging message length. A paging channel may be monitored. An indication of a paging message may be received on the paging channel. The paging message may include a message length field indicating a message length of the paging message. The message length field of the paging message may be received on the paging channel and decoded. It may be determined that the message length indicated in the message length field is incorrect. Receive diversity may be enabled for at least one subsequent paging occasion in response to determining that the message length indicated in the message length field is incorrect.
US09271259B2 Method and device for testing moving speed of terminal
Provided are a method and device for testing the moving speed of a terminal, which are used for testing the moving speed of a terminal according to the pilot and noise power, thereby improving measurement accuracy. The method comprises: a receiving end receiving a signal which comprises a pilot sequence and is sent by a sending end; according to the known pilot sequence and the signal comprising the pilot sequence, the receiving end determining an estimated value of a time-domain channel corresponding to each pilot symbol of the pilot sequence in a transmission process, and selecting a time-delay path according to the estimated value of the time-domain channel; and according to the time-delay path selected in a preset time length, the receiving end determining the moving speed of a terminal.
US09271258B2 Distance and velocity measurements using carrier signals
Systems and methods for performing distance and velocity measurements, such as by using carrier signals, are disclosed. A measurement method may include transmitting a first signal from an originator device to a transponder device, the first signal having a first carrier frequency; and determining a carrier phase of the first signal at the transponder device. The method may include transmitting a second signal from the transponder device to the originator device, the second signal having a second carrier frequency; and determining a carrier phase of the second signal at the originator device. The method may include estimating a distance between the originator device and the transponder device using the carrier phase of the first carrier signal and the carrier phase of the second carrier signal. The method may include estimating the distance between the originator device and the transponder device using a frequency difference between the first carrier frequency and the second carrier frequency.
US09271249B2 Association biasing for a heterogeneous network (HetNet)
A method for association biasing at a mobile device in a heterogeneous network (HetNet) is disclosed. The method can include the mobile device receiving coordination set information from a macro node in the HetNet. The coordination set information can include at least one low power node (LPN) identifier of at least one LPN. The mobile device can receive a request from the macro node to apply a specified reference signal (RS) biasing. The mobile device can apply the specified RS biasing to an LPN RS measurement derived from a LPN RS received from an LPN having an LPN identifier in the received coordination set information. The mobile device can associate the mobile device with the LPN when the LPN RS measurement with the specified RS biasing exceeds an association threshold.
US09271247B1 Characterizing slave clock synchronization behavior by means of dropped sync packets
Methods, media, and systems are provided for characterizing the synchronization behavior of a slave clock. A sequence of sync packets, usable to synchronize with a grandmaster clock, is transmitted from the grandmaster clock to a slave clock. The sequence of sync packets is modified by dropping one or more sync packets from the sequence, providing a pattern of dropped sync packets. A synchronization output of the slave clock is monitored and, based on the synchronization output, a determination is made as to whether the slave clock is synchronized while the sequence of sync packets is modified. A characterization of the synchronization behavior of the slave clock is stored with respect to the pattern of dropped sync packets. The process may be repeated for various patterns of dropped sync packets.
US09271246B2 Method and base station for power allocation in wireless system
A base station in a LTE system and a method for use in the base station (400) are provided for allocating power in downlink transmissions for a UE. A report is received, from the UE, comprising a Reference Signal Received Quality, RSRQ, indicating a current channel quality of a downlink transmission with multiple subcarriers. A fairness factor used for achieving fairness in scheduling between UEs served by the base station is retrieved, from a resource management scheduler of the base station; and a combined factor is determined based on the received RSRQ and the retrieved fairness factor, for resource blocks, RBs, related to the downlink transmissions, the RBs comprising subcarriers pertaining to resources to be allocated to the UE. Then, a power is determined for the resource RBs based on the determined combined factor; and the determined power for the downlink transmission for the UE is allocated.
US09271244B2 Method and apparatus for performing D2D communication
Embodiments of the disclosure provide methods and apparatuses for performing D2D communication in a communication system. The communication system at least comprises a BS and a UE in cellular communication with the BS, and wherein the D2D communication is performed between a D2D transmitter and a D2D receiver and interferes with the cellular communication. A method according to the disclosure may comprise steps of: obtaining MCS information on the cellular communication between the BS and the UE; and determining a transmitting power for the D2D communication based on the MCS information, so as to reduce the interference from the D2D communication to the cellular communication.
US09271235B2 Transferring of information in electronic price label systems
Electronic price label system and method for transferring information in an electronic price label system, the electronic price label system includes at least one base station and a plurality of electronic labels for transferring information between the base station and electronic labels. The base station(s) and the electronic labels includes at least communication member. The method includes sending first message from base station to electronic label using a first frequency band, after sending the first message, sending a second message from base station to electronic label using second frequency band, and sending a third message from electronic label to base station using a second frequency band.
US09271234B2 Terminal requested base station controlled terminal transmission throttling
A method for terminal requested base station controlled terminal transmission throttling includes determining whether terminal power consumption is to be reduced, if the terminal power consumption is to be reduced, transmitting a throttling request signal to the base station, the throttling request signal including data indicating to the base station to issue a discontinuous uplink transmission grant to the terminal, and receiving from the base station a discontinuous uplink transmission grant.
US09271233B2 Communication system, communication method, and child station of communication system
A child station (3) of a communication system performs communication while synchronizing the reference time of a parent station (2) with the local time (RT) of the child station (3). When the child station (3) is switched from a normal mode to a power saving mode in accordance with a mode change instruction from the parent station (2), correction is performed for one or both of a stop period in which the apparatus of the child station (3) is stopped and a non-stop period in the power saving mode using an error (Δt) generated during the time between the reference time of the parent station (2) and the local time (RT) of the child station (3). This makes it possible to synchronize the parent station (2) with the child station (3) and reliably and efficiently transfer a control frame (CF) from the parent station (2) to the child station (3).
US09271218B2 Proxy mechanism for mesh-type networks
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for connecting a mesh type network via an access device (C) to another network. A proxy mechanism is provided in the mesh type network, that allows for interconnection and range extension of legacy access point based mesh type networks.
US09271214B1 Cell change order and cell reselection by a wireless device
A method and/or apparatus for wireless communication in a multi-SIM user equipment includes receiving a list of neighboring base stations from a serving base station of a first SIM. The serving base station of a second SIM is identified and a final target base station is determined for a cell reselection procedure and/or cell change order procedure from among the neighboring base stations and the serving base station of the second SIM.
US09271213B1 Controlling wireless device communication with access nodes
When a first loading of a first access node is determined to meet a loading criteria, a handover criteria is decreased for a second access node comprising a coverage area at least a portion of which is within a coverage area of the first access node. A handover is performed of at least one of a plurality of wireless devices from the first access node to the second access node when a signal level of the second access node received at the at least one of the plurality of wireless devices meets the decreased handover criteria. Changes are determined in the first loading and in a throughput provided to the at least one of the wireless devices, and the handover criteria for the second access node is adjusted based on the changes in the first loading and the throughput provided to the at least one wireless device.
US09271210B2 Network mobility
In a wireless network environment comprising a mobile router serving a moving network, said mobile router for attaching to a packet-switched access network that uses a micro-mobility protocol and a Quality of Service (QoS) protocol to route packet data to and from said mobile router, wherein said mobile router has a QoS aggregate requirement generated by nodes attached thereto, a method of handover of said mobile router to a mobility agent in said access network, which method comprises the steps of: (i) said mobile router sends a QoS request message to said mobility agent, which QoS request message comprises a QoS parameter representing said QoS aggregate; (ii) upon receipt by said mobility agent, said access network takes a QoS admission decision on the basis of said QoS parameter; and (iii) said mobility agent sends a QoS acknowledgement to said mobile router whereby said mobility agent informs said mobile router of the outcome of said QoS admission decision; characterized by the step of (iv) if said QoS admission decision is that said mobility agent cannot handle all of said QoS aggregate, said QoS acknowledgement comprises an identity of one or more alternative mobility agent that might meet at least a part of said QoS aggregate that will not be provided by said mobility agent.
US09271204B2 Mobility management based on radio link failure reporting
A communication node determines that radio link failure occurred during connected state mobility of an access terminal and reports the radio link failure to another communication node. For example, a target access point may determine that radio link failure occurred during handover of an access terminal and send a radio link failure report message to the access point that was previously serving the access terminal or to some other node (e.g., a network node). In the first case, the serving access point may adjust mobility parameters based on this radio link failure information and, optionally, other reported radio link failure information. In the second case, the other node may send a radio link failure report message to the serving access point, or the other node may adjust mobility parameters based on this radio link failure information (and, optionally, other reported radio link failure information) and send the adjusted mobility parameters to the serving access point.
US09271202B2 Handover control method, apparatuses and communication system
A handover control method, apparatuses and a communication system are disclosed. In embodiments of the present invention, a control base station (DeNB) of a Relay node is identified according to an established relation between the Relay node and the Control base station, and therefore, a handover request message can be routed to the correct DeNB and finally sent to the RN, and a User Equipment can normally hand over to a cell controlled by the Relay node.
US09271198B2 Handover from circuit switched domain to circuit switched service over packet switched domain
A method for initiating handover of a circuit switched service using a circuit switched bearer of a mobile station from a circuit switched to a packet switched domain in a mobile communications network, the mobile communications network comprising a radio network and a core network, the radio network comprising a controlling node, the mobile station being o allocated an IP address and access port, said method comprising the controlling node communicating to the core network a relocation/handover required message; said relocation/handover required message comprising an indication of the IP address and access port allocated to the mobile station.
US09271196B1 Maintaining communication session information
An application requirement of an application running on a wireless device in communication with a first access node, a traffic class indicator associated with the wireless device, and a wireless communication link load between the wireless device and the first access node are determined. A probability of performing a first handover of the wireless device to a second access node and a second handover of the wireless device from the second access node to the first access node within a predetermined period of time is also determined. Based on the application requirement, the traffic class indicator, the wireless communication link load, and the determined probability, a context maintenance time is calculated, and a timer is started using the context maintenance time when the first handover is performed, and communication session information related to the communication between the wireless device and the first access node is maintained until the timer expires.
US09271191B2 Method and apparatus for transmitting data frame in WLAN system
A method and a station are described for transmitting a data frame in a wireless local area network (WLAN). The station obtains a transmission opportunity (TXOP) and transmits, during the TXOP, a preceding data unit of a plurality of data units comprising a control field indicating a selected bandwidth for the preceding data unit. The station selects a transmit bandwidth parameter of a non-initial data unit of the plurality of data units from available bandwidth parameters. The available bandwidth parameters include a first available bandwidth parameter which is same as a transmit bandwidth parameter of the preceding data unit of the plurality of data units and a second available bandwidth parameter which is narrower than a transmit bandwidth parameter of the preceding data unit. The station transmits, during the TXOP, the non-initial data unit, which comprises a control field indicating a selected bandwidth for the non-initial data unit.
US09271183B1 Managing access channel resources by buffering service requests
A method for managing access channel traffic during congested network conditions is disclosed. A wireless connection device (WCD) sends a service request to a particular base station for a particular quantity of network resources. Upon the particular base station determining that it is too loaded with network traffic to accommodate the service request, the base station saves an indication of the WCD's connection request, and responds with a communication to instruct the WCD to idle and wait for a page from the base station. The WCD, upon receiving the communication, does not send a service request for a greater quantity of network resources than the particular quantity until the WCD receives a page. Once the base station determines it has sufficient network resources to allocate to the WCD, the base station sends a page to the WCD, which causes the WCD to send another service request.
US09271182B2 Frame formats and timing parameters in sub-1 GHz networks
A method includes selecting a frame format for use in transmission of a packet via a wireless network. The transmission is associated with a particular bandwidth. The selected frame format is a first frame format if the particular bandwidth is equal to a threshold bandwidth. The selected frame format is the first frame format or a second frame format if the particular bandwidth is greater than the threshold bandwidth. The second frame format includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a short training field (STF), a long training field, and a signal A field, and the second portion includes a data portion including a second STF, one or more signal B fields, and a data field. The method further includes generating the packet in accordance with the selected frame format and one or more timing parameters and sending the packet.
US09271175B2 Wireless quality collecting device, wireless quality collecting method, and computer-readable recording medium
A wireless quality collecting device receives quality information on a wireless area from a terminal device that is located in the wireless area. For each region belonging to a predetermined range, the wireless quality collecting device counts the number of pieces of the received quality information. For a region in which the total number of pieces of the counted quality information is equal to or greater than a predetermined number, from among pieces of the quality information belonging to the region, the wireless quality collecting device selects the predetermined number of pieces of the quality information and stores the selected quality information in a storing unit.
US09271173B2 Method and system for collecting statistics on user equipment information in multimedia broadcast multicast service
The disclosure provides a method and system for collecting statistics of UE information in MBMS. A UE sends a dedicated RRC signaling carrying feedback information to a network side when a trigger condition is satisfied; the network side collecting statistics of UE information according to the feedback information and sends, when the collected statistics satisfy a requirement, a feedback stop indicator to the UE; and the UE stops sending the feedback information after receiving the feedback stop indicator. With the solutions, statistics of the UE information can be collected by the network side, and the requirements for activating or deactivating the MBSFN transmission mode of the MBMS service by the network side can be met; the network side instructs the UE to stop feeding back with full consideration of load of uplink resources, so that load of uplink resources can be reduced, and uplink resources can be saved.
US09271171B1 Transmitter and receiver tracking techniques for user devices in a MIMO network
A technique includes (i) receiving a first pilot signal from a base station via a receiver of a client device, or (ii) transmitting a second pilot signal from the client device to the base station via a transmitter of the client device. First time differences and signal quality values for N samples of N respective packets in the first pilot signal are determined. Second time differences and signal quality values are received via the receiver. The second time differences and signal quality values are generated for M samples of M respective packets in the second pilot signal. An offset value is determined based on (i) the first time differences and signal quality values, or (ii) the second time differences and signal quality values. Activation or deactivation times of the receiver or the transmitter or transmission times of the transmitter are adjusted based on the offset value.
US09271170B1 Channel adaptation in sensor networks
A source node in a network accesses information associated with a set of available transmission states. The source node selects a first transmission state from the set of available transmission states. The source node evaluates a metric associated with transmitting the data. The source node determines whether the metric is below a threshold value. Based on determining that the metric is below the threshold value, the source node selects a second transmission state from the set of available transmission states, the second transmission state being different from the first transmission state. The source node transmits data using the second transmission state.
US09271163B1 Sampling threshold detector for direct monitoring of RF signals
The peak level of a high frequency analog signal in an RF receiver is detected by a system which samples the signal and compares it against a static threshold, generating an above/below status. The system is implemented with a sampler of sufficient aperture bandwidth to capture the signal in question, operated at a clock frequency, dynamically chosen as a function of fLO (local oscillator frequency) and the desired fIF (intermediate frequency), to minimize in-band intermodulation products. The sampler produces kickback intermodulation products that are positioned out-of-band, or are of low enough power in-band so as to be inconsequential. Samples are taken for a statistically significant period of time, and the status is used to adapt the threshold to systematically determine the peak amplitude of the signal being observed.
US09271156B2 Location determination for white space utilization
A technique for a wireless device to obtain white space information from a component configured for cellular communication, such as a cellular phone. The wireless device and cellular phone may communicate using a short-range connection, such as a peer-to-peer connection, ensuring that the white space information, which is location based, generated by the cellular phone is also accurate for the location of the wireless device. With such white space information, the wireless device can comply with regulatory requirements for white space use by accessing a regulatory database identifying, by location, available white space channels. When the cellular phone is configured for accessing a wide area network, the cellular telephone may provide the white space information as a set of channels available for white space communication. Channels of the set may be prioritized based on one or more parameters, including frequency, permitted transmit power or detected noise.
US09271154B2 Method and apparatus for dynamic frequency selection in wireless local area network system
A method of transmitting channel management information by an access point (AP) in a wireless local area network and configured to communicate via a primary subchannel and a secondary subchannel is provided. The method includes: transmitting a frame including a quiet channel element, the quiet channel element including a quiet mode field indicating whether a communication to the AP is allowed via part or all of the primary subchannel during a quiet interval, the quiet interval being an interval during which no transmission occurs in the secondary channel; and performing communications using the part or all of the primary subchannel, if the quiet mode field is set to a value that indicates the communication to the AP is allowed to communicate via the part or all of the primary subchannel during the quiet interval.
US09271151B2 Fingerprinting a mobile device through near field communication
Some embodiments include a method of operating an identity receiver of a security system to process an authentication request. The method can include detecting an energy signal from a mobile device at the identity receiver using a first communication protocol; generating a handover message at the identity receiver to request a unique characteristic of the mobile device using the first communication protocol, the unique characteristic associated with a second communication protocol; receiving the unique characteristic from the mobile device at the identity receiver; and authorizing access through the security system by matching the unique characteristic to an authorized identity stored in the identity receiver.
US09271117B2 Computing system with configuration update mechanism and method of operation thereof
A computing system includes: a context module configured to determine a contextual information for representing the contextual information relative to a device; a zone module, coupled to the context module, configured to determine a proximity zone for identifying further devices within the proximity zone relative to the device; a proximate-device module, coupled to the zone module, configured to determine proximate-device identities for identifying the further devices relative to the device; and a configuration transfer module, coupled to the proximate-device module, configured to communicate a transferable configuration setting with a communication unit using the proximate-device identities for updating the device based on the transferable configuration setting and the contextual information for displaying on the device.
US09271113B2 Network elements, cellular communication system and methods therefor
Location presence information is provided to advertising services by a femto-cell management system in a femto/pico-cell environment. On registration of a user equipment with a pico-cell which has been previously identified as a designated zone, the management system sends an alert to the advertising services. A SMS controller permits the advertising services to send a welcome text message including advertising content to the user equipment. The management system can also act as a centralized GSMA one API application gateway for location presence.
US09271101B2 System and method for transmitting/receiving object-based audio
Provided is a system and method for transmitting/receiving an object-based audio. The system includes: a pre-processing unit for receiving an audio signal from diverse sources of outside and creating an object-based audio signal through a pre-processing procedure; an object-based audio editing unit for editing the object-based audio signal from the pre-processing unit and organizing an audio scene; an object-based audio coding unit for coding/multiplexing information on the object-based audio signal and the audio scene from the object-based audio editing unit and creating object-based audio contents; and a transmitting unit for transmitting the object-based audio contents from the object-based audio coding unit.
US09271092B2 Medical implant system
An implant including a bone fixture configured to anchor to bone of a recipient, and a structural component configured to be connected to the bone fixture and connect a functional component of the implant to the bone fixture, wherein at least one of the bone fixture or the structural component includes a deformable element configured to deform to form an anti-microbial seal between the bone fixture and the structural component, and the at least one deformable element and the respective at least one bone fixture or structural component form a monolithic structure.
US09271089B2 Voice control device and voice control method
A voice control device includes a hearing estimate section configured to estimate hearing of a user based on a sending/received sound ratio representing a ratio of the volume of a sending sound to the volume of a received sound; a compensation-quantity calculating section configured to calculate a compensation quantity for a received signal of the received sound responsive to the estimated hearing; and a compensation section configured to compensate the received signal based on the calculated compensation quantity.
US09271088B2 Hearing aid with an H-bridge output stage and a method of driving an output stage
A digital, three-level output driver (7) of the H-bridge variety for a hearing aid (20) obtains a reduced capacitive interference by providing a primary voltage (3) and a secondary voltage (8) for the output driver (7) and applying the secondary voltage (8) to both sides of the output driver (7) whenever the middle level of the three-level output driver (7) is present in the input signal for the output driver (7). The output driver (7) may be controlled from a pulse-width modulated signal, a sigma-delta pulse-density modulated signal, or a combination of those signals. The output driver (7) produces a clocked output signal consisting of a positive level, a negative level, and a zero level for driving an acoustic output transducer of the hearing aid (20). The invention provides a hearing aid (20) and a method of driving an output stage (7) of a hearing aid (20).
US09271079B2 Data processing method and electronic device
The present invention discloses a data processing method applied in an electronic device. The electronic device includes a codec, at least two audio output devices, an identification module, a communication module and at least two players. The method comprises the steps of: decoding, by the at least two players, at least two paths of coded multi-media data containing audio data to generate at least two channels of code streams corresponding to the at least two paths of multi-media data when the electronic device is in an operating state; assigning, by the identification module, an identifier to each of the at least two channels of code streams and transmitting at least two identifiers to the communication module, the at least two identifiers being provided to the codec such that the codec can receive the at least two channels of code streams based on the at least two identifiers; and establishing, by the codec, a channel corresponding to each of the at least two channels of code streams based on the at least two identifiers, such that each channel of code stream can be output to one of the at least two audio output devices via its corresponding channel.
US09271076B2 Enhanced stereophonic audio recordings in handheld devices
Methods and systems are provided for enhanced stereo audio recordings in electronic devices. Stereophonic recording performance in an electronic device, using a first microphone and a second microphone in the electronic device, may be assessed; and processing of signals generated by the first microphone and the second microphone may be configured based on the assessed stereophonic recording performance. The configuring may comprises adaptively modifying the processing to enhance stereophonic recording performance, to match or approximate an ideal performance. The assessing of the stereophonic recording in the electronic device may be based on a type of each of the first microphone and the second microphone, and/or based on a spacing therebetween. The processing may be adaptively modified to simulate directional reception of signals by the first microphone and the second microphone when the microphones are omnidirectional.
US09271069B2 Microphone housing arrangement for an audio conference system
An audio conference system has a plurality of specially designed microphone housings into each of which a directional microphone is positioned. Each microphone housing is positioned entirely within the body of the audio conferencing system, the microphone housings are strategically positioned at each one of four corners of the audio conference system body in order to provide maximum exposure of a microphone to its operating environment, and the interior structure of the microphone housing is designing to reflect unwanted energy harmlessly away from the microphone. Each directional microphone is positioned in the microphone housing such that the most sensitive node in its polar response pattern is oriented normal (at right angles) to a line radiating outward from the center of the system.
US09271063B2 Power transferring headphones
The invention relates to headphones which can facilitate the transfer of electrical power from the headphones' internal power source to other devices. A pair of headphones can connect to a device through a modified cable. The modified cable triggers the transfer of electrical power to the device. A pair headphones may have a modified port which, when connected to the device through a non-modified or regular cable, causes the transfer of power from the headphones. A power management component connected to the internal power source of the headphones helps control or regulate the transfer of power transfer to and from the headphones.
US09271051B1 System and method for call placement using a television set-top box
A call-placement service is provided for a cable television set top box (STB). The STB is interconnected to a television display and via a cable link to a server at a cable television provider head end. The STB includes an onboard application that presents a menu to the subscriber allowing access to a list of telephone numbers and downloadable content providers. The head end includes a service application that selects an appropriate telephone provider and transmits the telephone numbers to the provider. The telephone provider connects to the subscriber and detects whether the subscriber can receive an SMS message. If so, the provider connects to the target and detects whether the target can accept the call or send an SMS message. If so, the telephone system connects the call between the subscriber and the target of passes an SMS message to the user's that may contain a link for content download.
US09271046B2 Switching method of different display windows of a TV
The present invention provides a switching method of the different display windows of a TV. Before the switching, the TV displays the TV programs, received from the broadcast system and a server, in a main window and a sub-display window respectively, and the switching method includes the following steps that: the TV and the server determine the channel identifiers of the TV programs displayed by each other; the TV displays the TV programs, received from the broadcast system and the server, with the channel identifiers of each other using the first display window and the second display window respectively. By the present invention, the sources of the contents displayed respectively in the first display window and second display window do not change, thereby maintaining the respective display quality (including resolution and picture size) of the two display windows unchangeable before and after the switching.
US09271041B2 Methods of performing scheduled recording in home network system and digital media server and digital media player for performing the same
A method of performing schedule recording in a home network system is provided that includes receiving a pre-registered reserved word from a terminal and searching a content corresponding to the reserved word and transmitting a reservation list including information on the searched content to a terminal indicated by the reserved word, wherein receiving the pre-registered reserved word and transmitting a reservation list are performed by a digital media server.
US09271040B2 Real-time DVR polling system
Techniques for real-time DVR usage and reporting enable using instant message protocol in a DVR environment to obtain real-time DVR usage data and to report data reflecting such usage in real-time. An example of DVR usage data comprises data reflecting that a viewer is viewing a video program which is R-rated. Another example of DVR usage data comprises a viewer entering a password, such as a kids zone password, to exit kids zone operational mode.
US09271038B2 Receiving device, receiving method, providing device, providing method, programs, and broadcasting system
This technique relates to a receiving device, a receiving method, a providing device, a providing method, a program and a broadcasting system that can notify the receiving side of control information such as the timing to synchronize an application program with progress of a show without using a television broadcast signal.When the application control type written in the application control descriptor is 3, the receiving device acquires application control data from a server, and, for example, acquires and starts a new information service application in accordance with the segment data forming the application control data. When an external device is designated as the command destination device, the receiving device generates a command for the external device, and outputs the command to the external device. In accordance with the command from the receiving device, the external device, for example, acquires and starts the new information service application. This disclosure can be applied in a case where the receiving device is controlled from the broadcasting side.
US09271032B2 System and method for saving and recalling state data for media and home appliances
A set of media playback and device settings data from each home appliance of a first set of home appliances is stored on a central server and/or sent to a remote control device upon initiation of a suspend command by a user. The stored media and devices states may be used at a later time to control the first set of home appliances, or a user may, after relocating to a second set of home appliances, initiate a resume state command whereupon media playback and device settings data from the central server and/or remote control device controls each home appliance in the second set of home appliances to bring about the same or substantially similar media and device states as in the first set of home appliances.
US09271029B2 Method and input-output device for rendering at least one of audio, video and computer graphics content and servicing device for delivering at least one of pre-rendered audio, pre-rendered video and pre-rendered computer graphics content
A method and an input-output device are proposed for rendering content. Further, a servicing device is proposed for delivering pre-rendered content.For rendering, a portion of processing or memorizing resources of said input-output device is allocated such that remaining resources of said input-output device are sufficient for maintaining the input-output capability of the device. Then, it is determined that an amount of resources required for rendering exceeds the allocated resources and a corresponding degree of pre-rendering is determined, too. On the serving device, pre-rendering of the content according to the determined degree is performed and the pre-rendered content is delivered from the serving device to the input-output device.Since server-side rendering is limited to a required degree, bandwidth constraints can be met more easily. Furthermore, rendering occurs more distributed and can be adjusted dynamically, thus, response time can be reduced.
US09271027B2 Image display apparatus and method for operating the same
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating an image display device that receives a signal from a pointing device includes receiving, from the pointing device, a pointing signal to display a pointer on a display of the image display device, and a selection signal, wherein the selection signal includes information regarding a command to perform an operation on the image display device, displaying, on the display, the pointer corresponding to the pointing signal, determining whether the pointer is displayed on a most frequently displayed region during an input standby time associated with the selection signal, and performing an operation associated the most frequently displayed region when the pointer is displayed on the most frequently displayed region during the input standby time.
US09271026B2 Dynamically configurable frequency band selection device between CATV distribution system and CATV user
A frequency band selection device that can be inserted into a signal transmission line of a CATV system on the premise of a user includes at least two signal path sets between a tap side and a premise side. Each signal path set includes two discrete signal paths, a high frequency signal path for a downstream bandwidth and a low frequency signal path for an upstream bandwidth. The high frequency signal path and the low frequency signal path are separated by a cut-off transition frequency that is different for each signal path set. The device further includes a switch controller having at least two discrete switch positions. The switch controller chooses one of the switch positions as a result of an information signal. Each of the switch positions corresponds to a respective one of the signal path sets.
US09271022B2 Internet content subscription service via multiple devices
Subscribing to channels and playing content, including: selecting an available subscription channel with an application on a second device; modifying a user's, subscription list based on the selected subscription-channel; and executing commands on any of the subscription channels of the user's subscription list. Keywords include: media, internet content, BIVL subscription and device infrastructure.
US09271018B2 Method of determining an unusual behaviour of an electronic apparatus, and electronic apparatus able to implement such a method
A method of determining an unusual behavior of an electronic apparatus, the electronic apparatus carrying out an operation requiring the use of an item of information regarding an internal reference clock of the electronic apparatus, the method including comparing the internal reference clock information item with a span of temporal coherence of the electronic apparatus, the span of temporal coherence being determined on the basis of various temporal information items stored within the electronic apparatus; in the case of inconsistency between the internal reference clock information item and the coherence span, storing an information item relating to an unusual behavior of the electronic apparatus.
US09271012B2 Method of coding and decoding images, coding and decoding device and computer programs corresponding thereto
A method of coding at least one image comprising the steps of splitting the image into a plurality of blocks, of grouping said blocks into a predetermined number of subsets of blocks, of coding each of said subsets of blocks in parallel, the blocks of a subset considered being coded according to a predetermined sequential order of traversal. The coding step comprises, for a current block of a subset considered, the sub-step of predictive coding of said current block with respect to at least one previously coded and decoded block, and the sub-step of entropy coding of said current block on the basis of at least one probability of appearance of a symbol.
US09271004B2 Method and system for parallel processing video data
Described herein is a method and system for parallel processing video data. The system having parallel encoder devices can create a balance between quality of service and delay. In order to maintain quality, compression parameters in a group of pictures can be produced by one encoder device and used by another encoder device for estimation during the encoding of another group of pictures. Compression parameters of different picture types may be stored separately and used for the encoding of a future pictures of the same type. The generation and passing of compression parameters introduces a delay based on the time it takes to encode one or more pictures.
US09271003B2 Real-time audio or video transcoding
A system and a method are disclosed for transcoding video files on a server such that they can be streamed to a client device in substantially real-time. The server receives a video file a uses a prediction algorithm to predict each video frame's size based on encoding and streaming parameters associated with the input file and an output stream and transcoding each video frame. If a transcoded frame is too large, it is compressed further, if it is too small, the video file is padded. As such, each video frame transcoded or padded until the encoded frame is the same size as a predicted size. The transcoded frames are streamed to a client device to enable the client to device to playback the video after requesting it from the server.
US09270999B2 Delayed chroma processing in block processing pipelines
A block processing pipeline in which macroblocks are input to and processed according to row groups so that adjacent macroblocks on a row are not concurrently at adjacent stages of the pipeline. The input method may allow chroma processing to be postponed until after luma processing. One or more upstream stages of the pipeline may process luma elements of each macroblock to generate luma results such as a best mode for processing the luma elements. Luma results may be provided to one or more downstream stages of the pipeline that process chroma elements of each macroblock. The luma results may be used to determine processing of the chroma elements. For example, if the best mode for luma is an intra-frame mode, then a chroma processing stage may determine a best intra-frame mode for chroma and reconstruct the chroma elements according to the best chroma intra-frame mode.
US09270996B2 Method and apparatus for generating encoded motion information/recovering motion information using motion information integration, and image encoding/decoding method and apparatus using same
A video encoding apparatus, a video decoding apparatus and a method for generating coded motion information before reconstructing by using motion information merge, the video encoding apparatus includes an inter prediction unit configured to generate a prediction block of a current block by using motion compensation, decide whether to encode motion information by merging and generate coded motion information of the current block depending on the decision; a subtraction unit configured to generate a residual block by subtracting the prediction block generated from the current block; a transform and quantization unit configured to transform and quantize the residual block to thereby generate a quantized frequency residual block; and an encoding unit configured to encode the quantized frequency residual block and the coded motion information to thereby generate a bitstream.
US09270989B2 Method and apparatus for video coding
A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided that permit values of certain parameters or syntax elements, such as the HRD parameters and/or a level indicator, to be taken from a syntax structure, such as a sequence parameter set. In this regard, values of certain parameters or syntax elements, such as the HRD parameters and/or a level indicator, may be taken from a syntax structure of a certain other layer, such as the highest layer, present in an access unit, coded video sequence and/or bitstream even if the other layer, such as the highest layer, were not decoded. The syntax element values from the other layer, such as the highest layer, may be semantically valid and may be used for conformance checking, while the values of the respective syntax elements from other respective syntax structures, such as sequence parameter sets, may be active or valid otherwise.
US09270987B2 Image processing apparatus and method
The present technology relates to an image processing apparatus and method that are capable of enhancing encoding efficiency while suppressing a decrease in the efficiency of encoding processing. The image processing apparatus includes an encoding mode setter that sets, in units of coding units having a hierarchical structure, whether a non-compression mode is to be selected as an encoding mode for encoding image data, the non-compression mode being an encoding mode in which the image data is output as encoded data, and an encoder that encodes the image data in units of the coding units in accordance with a mode set by the encoding mode setter. The present disclosure can be applied to, for example, an image processing apparatus.
US09270985B2 Method and apparatus for selecting a coding mode
A method and apparatus for selecting a coding mode are described. For example, the method receives at least one block of a signal to be encoded. The method determines a frame vertical pixel difference in the at least one block and determines a field vertical pixel difference in the at least one block. The method then compares the frame vertical pixel difference with the field vertical pixel difference to determine a first coding mode for the at least one block.
US09270984B2 Camera with dust checking function
A camera includes a photo-sensitive element and a controller. The controller is electrically connected to the photo-sensitive element. The photo-sensitive element is configured to capture an image of an object. The controller is configured to convert a color level value of each of pixels of the image into an image gray level value, and the controller is configured to generate an alarm message to display on a screen of the camera when one of the image gray level values is higher than a predetermined gray level threshold value.
US09270976B2 Multi-user stereoscopic 3-D panoramic vision system and method
A panoramic camera system includes a plurality of camera units mounted in a common, e.g., horizontal, plane and arranged in a circumferential array. Each camera unit includes one or more lenses for focusing light from a field of view onto an array of light-sensitive elements. A panoramic image generator combines electronic image data from the multiplicity of the fields of view to generate electronic image data representative of a first 360-degree panoramic view and a second 360-degree panoramic view, wherein the first and second panoramic views are angularly displaced. A stereographic display system is provided to retrieve operator-selectable portions of the first and second panoramic views and to display the user selectable portions in human viewable form. In a further aspect, a video display method is provided.
US09270975B2 Information integrating device and information integrating method which integrates stereoscopic video information using main information and complementary information
A receiver (101) that receives main information (2) including 2D video content and complementary information (3) for converting the 2D video content to 3D, and an integrating unit (102) that integrates the main information (2) and the complementary information (3), received by the receiver (101), as integrated information (4) by using the main information (2) and the complementary information (3) are provided. Accordingly, 3D video can be viewed without changing the broadcasting format of the current 2D broadcasting or without degrading the image quality.
US09270968B2 Imaging apparatus and reproducing apparatus which changes frame rate based on zoom operation
An imaging unit outputs a video signal at a frame rate higher than a standard frame rate. During a zoom operation period or a period including the zoom operation period and periods before and after the zoom operation, a video signal from the imaging unit is recorded in a recording medium at a high recording frame rate. Other than this period, a video signal is recorded in the recording medium at the standard frame rate. The recording frame rate and zoom operation information is recorded as metadata in the recording medium. During reproduction, based on a set reproduction mode, thinning processing is carried out on a video signal recorded during a zoom operation, and the processed signal is output at the standard frame rate. In this way, it is possible to change a frame rate in view of a photographer's intention and assure compatibility with existing viewing and reproduction environments.
US09270961B2 Color shading correction using color channel consistency
An imaging system includes a color correction circuit configured to perform color shading correction of an image independent of lens shading correction of the image. A method for anti-shading correction of an image includes correcting, by a color correction circuit, for color shading of the image independent of lens shading correction of the image.
US09270956B2 Image display
A display has a screen which incorporates a light modulator. The screen may be a front projection screen or a rear-projection screen. The screen is illuminated with light from a light source comprising an array of controllable light-emitters. The controllable-emitters and elements of the light modulator may be controlled to adjust the intensity of light emanating from corresponding areas on the screen. The display may provide a high dynamic range.
US09270955B2 Imaging apparatus that generates three-layer color data on the basis of a first mosaic image
An image processing device according to the invention includes: a lens information acquisition unit; a color mixture information determination unit; mosaic image acquisition unit that, when the color mixture information determination unit determines that the color mixture information is unidentified, reads, from the color imaging element, a second mosaic image obtained by reducing the number of types of first pixels in the first mosaic image which includes a pixel of a first color formed by at least one color and a pixel of a second color formed by at least one color and in which the number of types of first pixels determined by the arrangement of pixels that are adjacent to a first pixel, which is the pixel of the first color, at a minimum pixel pitch in four directions is equal to or greater than 4; a color mixture correction unit; and a synchronization unit.
US09270946B2 Media distribution switching method, receiving device and transmitting device
A request packet generation unit generates a request packet for requesting the distribution of media information. A request packet transmitting unit transmits the request packet. A request response packet receiving unit receives a request response packet corresponding to the request packet from a transmitting device. A request response analysis unit analyzes a request response set in the request response packet. A mode determination unit switches between an operation mode for real-time transmission and that for non-real-time transmission according to device type information, attached to the request response, indicating whether the transmitting device is for real-time transmission or non-real-time transmission. A first receiving unit receives media information in an operation mode for real-time transmission. A second receiving unit receives media information in an operation mode for non-real-time transmission.
US09270945B2 Systems and methods for communications between client devices of a broadcast system
Systems and methods may provide for communication between a plurality of client devices of a broadcast system. The communication may be, for example, a recommendation of a program that is communicated from one subscriber to another subscriber or subscribers via their client devices. The communication also may be a comment regarding a program, for example, recently viewed at the client device of the one subscriber. In general, the communication may be a message from one subscriber to another subscriber or subscribers. Further, the communication may be configured to perform a function on one or more other client devices. Such a function may include, but is not limited to, setting a timer to record a program, ordering or purchasing a program or service, cancelling an ordered/purchased program or service, setting or altering user preferences, controlling access to channels, etc.
US09270943B2 System and method for augmented reality-enabled interactions and collaboration
Embodiments of the present invention provide a novel system and/or method for performing over-the-network collaborations and interactions between remote end-users. Embodiments of the present invention produce the perceived effect of each user sharing a same physical workspace while each person is actually located in separate physical environments. In this manner, embodiments of the present invention allow for more seamless interactions between users while relieving them of the burden of using common computer peripheral devices such as mice, keyboards, and other hardware often used to perform such interactions.
US09270942B2 Communication management system, communication system, computer-readable recording medium, and maintenance system
A communication management system includes a storage unit configured to store therein destination information of a first communication terminal that establishes a first session with a relay device that relays communication data, destination information of a conversion system that performs mutual conversion between communication schemes of communication data transmitted from the first communication terminal and a second communication terminal and establishes a second session with the relay device, and destination information of the second communication terminal that establishes a third session with the conversion system; a receiving unit configured to receive start request information to start communication between the communication terminals from the first communication terminal; an extracting unit configured to extract destination information of each communication terminal and the conversion system stored in the storage unit, based on the received start request information; and a transmitting unit configured to transmit the extracted destination information to the relay device.
US09270932B2 Video call set up in an established audio call
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for establishing communications between endpoints. In one aspect, a method includes initiating, by a first endpoint and through a call server, a call with a second endpoint. After the call is established, the first endpoint transmits, independent of the call server, first information specifying a video communication capability of the first endpoint that the call server did not setup in the established call. The first endpoint receives second information specifying that the second endpoint has the video communication capability. The first endpoint establishes, independent of the call server, video communication between the first endpoint and the second endpoint based on the first information and second information.
US09270928B2 Video-previewing methods and systems for providing preview of a video and machine-readable storage mediums thereof
Video previewing methods for electronic devices with a touch-sensitive display unit for providing preview of a video to be played are provided. First, a resolution of the touch-sensitive display unit of the electronic device is detected. Thereafter, a preview screen is generated on the touch-sensitive display unit according to the resolution of the touch-sensitive display unit, wherein the preview screen includes M level frame bars and each of the M level frame bars displays N video frames, and N for each of the M level frame bars is determined based on the resolution of the touch-sensitive display unit, where M≧1 and N≧1.
US09270924B2 Television and electronic apparatus
According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a rectangular liquid crystal panel, a light-guide plate, a light bar corresponding a short side of the liquid crystal panel and including a plurality of light-emitting diodes, a reflector on the light-guide plate, a prism sheet on the light-guide plate on a side opposite to the reflector, and a polarizing sheet on the prism sheet configured to diffuse light.
US09270910B2 Image sensor, imaging device, imaging method and information processing apparatus
There is provided an image sensor including a plurality of sensors for autofocus. The sensors are divided into a plurality of groups. Clock signals for drive in different timings for each group are supplied to the sensors.
US09270907B2 Radiation imaging apparatus, control method for radiation imaging apparatus, and storage medium
A radiation imaging apparatus including an accumulation unit to accumulate electrical charge in accordance with radiation for each pixel circuit of a plurality of pixel circuits. An output unit outputs an analog signal for each pixel circuit by sampling and holding an electrical signal in accordance with a voltage of an accumulation unit for each pixel circuit. The output unit stops the output during a reset operation of the accumulation unit. A selection unit selects pixel circuits that output the analog signals. The selection unit stops the selection during a reset operation of the accumulation unit. A determination unit determines whether a total time of an exposure time and an output time required to output the analog signals corresponding to all the pixel circuits is longer than an imaging interval that is based on a synchronization signal representing a radiation generation timing input from an external apparatus.
US09270906B2 Exposure time selection using stacked-chip image sensors
Imaging systems may be provided with stacked-chip image sensors. A stacked-chip image sensor may include a vertical chip stack that includes an array of image pixels and processing circuitry. The image pixel array may be coupled to the processing circuitry through an array of vertical metal interconnects. The image pixel array may be partitioned into image pixel sub-arrays configured to capture image data using one or more integration times. The processing circuitry may determine motion information for the image data captured by each pixel sub-array and may determine integration times for each pixel sub-array. The pixel sub-arrays may capture additional image data using the determined integration times. The additional image data may be combined to generate final image frames having short integration pixel values and long integration pixel values. The processing circuitry may output the final image frames to off-chip image processing circuitry.
US09270905B2 Readout circuit, solid-state imaging apparatus, and method for driving readout circuit
A readout circuit includes: an amplifier (408); and offset controllers (415 and 416) configured to set an output offset voltage of the amplifier, wherein the readout circuit operates in first and second modes, in the first mode, a first voltage, and thereafter a second voltage lower than the first voltage, are input into the amplifier, in the second mode, a third voltage, and thereafter a fourth voltage higher than the third voltage, are input into the amplifier, and the offset controller switches the output offset voltage of the amplifier, between the first and second modes.
US09270904B2 X-ray system and method with digital image acquisition using a photovoltaic device
An X-ray imaging system is provided. The X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray radiation source. The X-ray imaging system also includes a source controller coupled to the source and configured to command emission of X-rays for image exposures. The X-ray imaging system further includes a digital X-ray detector configured to acquire X-ray image data without communication from the source controller, wherein the digital X-ray detector includes a photovoltaic device, and the digital X-ray detector is configured to determine one or more of a beginning, end, or duration of an image exposure via the photovoltaic device.
US09270888B2 Image processing apparatus and control method thereof
An image processing apparatus comprises a recording image generation unit which generates recording image data from image data input by an image input unit, based on a first gamma characteristic; a display image generation unit which generates display image data from the image data based on a second gamma characteristic in correspondence with a characteristic of a display unit; a determination unit which determines whether or not the recording image data includes a portion of luminance levels which are not less than a predetermined threshold; a display data generation unit which generates display data for indicating the portion of the luminance levels which are not less than the predetermined threshold; and a display control unit which superimposes the display data on the display image data.
US09270876B2 Methods and apparatus for using multiple optical chains in parallel with multiple different exposure times
Methods and apparatus for capturing or generating images using multiple optical chains operating in parallel are described. Pixel values captured by individual optical chains corresponding to the same scene area are combined to provide an image with at least some of the benefits which would have been provided by capturing an image of the scene using a larger lens than that of the individual lenses of the optical chain modules. By using multiple optical chains in parallel at least some benefits normally obtained from using a large lens can be obtained without the need for a large lens. Furthermore in at least some embodiments, a wide dynamic range can be supported through the use of multiple sensors with the overall supported dynamic range being potentially larger than that of the individual sensors. Some lens and/or optical chain configurations are designed for use in small handheld devices, e.g., cell phones.
US09270873B2 Camera module including conductive layer corresponding to shape of electronic circuit pattern layer
The present invention relates to a camera module, the camera module including a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) formed with an image sensor, a holder formed at an upper surface of the PCB and mounted therein with at least one or more lenses, an actuator positioned at the holder, and an electronic circuit pattern layer formed on the holder.
US09270867B2 Image compensation device, image processing apparatus and methods thereof
An image compensating apparatus includes an input unit to receive input of an photo image, a Gaussian filtering unit to perform Gaussian filtering on the photo image, a division-map generating unit to convert the photo image on which the Gaussian filtering is performed into a color space including a plurality of color components and then generating a chromaticity division-map based on a color coordinate value in the color space, a calculating unit to calculate average chromaticity of each respective region by using the chromaticity division-map, and a compensating unit to compensate chromaticity of each respective region of the photo image by using the average chromaticity of each respective region. Accordingly, a faded image input to the input unit may effectively be compensated.
US09270866B2 Apparatus and method for automated self-training of white balance by electronic cameras
A method for calibrating auto white balancing in an electronic camera includes (a) obtaining a plurality of color values from a respective plurality of images of real-life scenes captured by the electronic camera under a first illuminant, (b) invoking an assumption about a true color value of at least portions of the real-life scenes, and (c) determining, based upon the difference between the true color value and the average of the color values, a plurality of final auto white balance parameters for a respective plurality of illuminants including the first illuminant. An electronic camera device includes an image sensor for capturing real-life images of real-life scenes, instructions including a partly calibrated auto white balance parameter set and auto white balance self-training instructions, and a processor for processing the real-life images according to the self-training instructions to produce a fully calibrated auto white balance parameter set specific to the electronic camera.
US09270834B2 Method and apparatus for cost-saving telephone service
The present invention provides a method for a cost-saving telephone service, comprising: receiving a request for telephoning a third party client device from a communication resources using device, wherein the communication resources using device and the third party client device are connected to a first and a second telephone service networks respectively; selecting a communication resources providing device from a plurality of client devices registered to the cost-saving telephone service and connected to the second telephone service network; and having the communication resources providing device telephone the third party client device through the second telephone service network such that the communication resources using device communicates with the third party client device via the communication resources providing device.
US09270833B2 Method and system for preventing illicit use of a telephony platform
A system and method for preventing illicit use of a telephony platform that includes enrolling a plurality of accounts on a telecommunications platform, wherein an account includes account configuration; at a fraud detection system of the telecommunications platform, receiving account usage data, wherein the usage data includes at least communication configuration data and billing configuration data of account configuration and further includes communication history of the plurality of accounts; calculating fraud scores of a set of fraud rules from the usage data, wherein at least a sub-set of the fraud rules include conditions of usage data patterns between at least two accounts; detecting when the fraud scores of an account satisfy a fraud threshold; and initiating an action response when a fraud score satisfies the fraud threshold.
US09270821B2 Methods and apparatus to provide contact management with directory assistance
Methods and an apparatus for providing contact management with directory assistance. An example method includes obtaining, via a processor, a billing record generated to track usage of a directory assistance service by a caller, the billing record comprising a first data object conveyed to the caller in association with the usage of the directory assistance service; querying, via the processor, a first directory with the first data object of the billing record to obtain listing information associated with the first data object; and conveying a contact record including the obtained listing information to a device associated with the caller.
US09270820B2 Method and apparatus for content presentation in association with a telephone call
A method and apparatus are provided for presenting multimedia content to a caller and/or a called party in association with a telephone call. Content may be presented pre-ring (before the called party's telephone rings), in-call, and/or post-call. Content presented to a party may be related to another party participating in the call or may be related to a third party (e.g., an advertiser that paid for the ability to have its content presented). Presented content may be actuable, to allow a caller to change the destination of a call, take advantage of an offer presented to him or her, redeem a coupon, schedule or queue a subsequent call, etc. To find a desired destination party, a caller may initiate a manual or automatic search of his or her local contacts (on his telephone) and/or a central or global directory or contact list.
US09270818B1 Providing geographic location information on a telephone device
In one implementation, a computer-implemented method includes receiving, from a first telephone device and at a second telephone device, a request to accept a telephone call. The method further includes obtaining information that indicates a first current geographic location of the first telephone device or the associated first user based on the second telephone device or an associated second user being a member of a group of call recipients that are permitted to receive the information that indicates the first current geographic location. The method additionally includes, using the obtained information, providing a representation of the first current geographic location of the first telephone device on the second telephone device in association with the telephone call from the first telephone device.
US09270809B2 Device function disablement during vehicle motion
A method and system for disabling functions of a movement detection enabled device is provided. The method includes monitoring a movement detection signal of the movement detection enabled device in a vehicle and determining that the vehicle is currently in motion. An electronic tag in the vehicle is detected and instructions associated with the movement detection enabled device are retrieved. It is determined that the movement detection enabled device is located within a specified proximity to a driver location of the vehicle and that a user of the device is a driver of the vehicle. In response, specified functions of the movement detection enabled device are disabled.
US09270804B2 Method, wireless device and wireless communications system to guide a user of a wireless device to establish an optimal wireless direct link to another wireless device
A system, method and protocol for guiding a user to establish an optimal wireless link. The method provides a first device (550) to communicate with a second device (500) in a wireless network, the method including: receiving, by the first device (550), location information of at least one antenna (510, 520) in the second device (500); providing, by the first device (550), an audio, visual, or audiovisual representation of the location of the at least one antenna (510, 520) in the second device (500).
US09270799B2 Using indirect communication to provide a solution to use international dialing convention and incorporating phone numbers for non-phone devices
An indirect communication system and a method of indirect communication include a mobile phone as either a calling device or receiving device. The mobile phone calls another device to set up a prospective communication, and then uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to communicate with the other device over the Internet. The receiving device receives a generated signal notifying the receiving device of a proposed communication with the calling device. A server sets up a meeting point channel after the calling device has connected to the server. The server receives outgoing VoIP packets from the calling device and redirects the outgoing VoIP packets to the receiving device.
US09270792B2 Method and system for improving wireless link efficiency
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for improving transmission efficiency of a wireless link. During operation, the system receives a packet for transmission, where in the packet includes an original sequence number. The system then modifies the packet by including a virtual sequence number in a header of the packet and including the original sequence number in a payload of the modified packet. The system further aggregates a number of modified packets into an aggregate frame and transmits the aggregate frame to a destination device. The virtual sequence number facilitates stateless transmission of the encapsulated packets and allows the aggregate frame to have a maximum allowable number of packets while accommodating both re-transmitted packets and regular packets.
US09270789B2 Method of and system for managing client resources and assets for activities on computing devices
A method of and system for enabling a distributed entertainment system over a computing device is described herein. When implementing a distributed entertainment system wherein the entertainment system is directly correlated to live events or televised programs, there are a number of issues that must be addressed such as differing timing and channels of television programs and separate state laws. Furthermore, there are a plethora of varying computing device models possibly requiring model-specific software. An “Activity Client” is provided to handle such concerns. Furthermore, since time is of the essence for activities based on live or televised events, it is necessary to ensure a computing device is able to receive the necessary updates for the program before the event begins. By providing only the needed components instead of entire data packages, the present invention is able to much more efficiently prepare users' computing devices in time.
US09270788B2 Terminal device and data communication method thereof
A terminal device and a data communication method of the terminal device in which a virtual environment is constructed includes receiving a processing command for data searched for according to a data search command, storing first path information on a position of the searched data and transmitting first event information related to the processing command to a management server, receiving a communication performance command including identification information of the other terminal device from the management server, and transmitting the data to the other terminal based on the identification information and the first path information, wherein the communication performance command is generated based on second event information related to an execution command for the data in the other terminal device and the first event information. Data transmission/reception between the virtual terminal devices or between the virtual terminal device and an actual terminal device can be performed smoothly.
US09270786B1 System and method for proxying TCP connections over a SCSI-based transport
A system and method for executed by a server for communicating between the server and a client over a Fiber Channel (FC) network. The method includes receiving, from the client, a first SCSI request including an identifier for a virtual connection and a descriptor for a server process at the server, creating a socket to the server process using the process descriptor, associating the socket with the virtual connection, receiving, from the client, a second SCSI request, including the virtual connection identifier and a call message, and writing the call message to the socket associated with the virtual connection.
US09270781B2 Associating virtual machines on a server computer with particular users on an exclusive basis
A first computer of a plurality of computers in a server computer system may be associated with a first user on an exclusive basis. An administrator of the server computer system may utilize an administrative user interface in order to specify the association. Associating the first computer with the first user on the exclusive basis may prevent users other than the first user from using the first computer. In response to receiving a request from the first user to connect to the server computer system, the system may operate to determine that the first computer is associated with the first user on the exclusive basis and may assign the first computer to the first user. Once the first computer has been assigned to the first user, the first user can begin using the first computer. In some embodiments the first computer may be a physical computer. In other embodiments the first computer may be a virtual machine.
US09270777B2 Social media and data sharing controls for data security purposes
Social media and data sharing controls may be provided. Upon receiving a request to transmit an element of data to a recipient, a determination may be made as to whether the recipient is appropriate to receive the element of data. In response to determining that the recipient is appropriate to receive the element of data, the element of data may be transmitted. In response to determining that the recipient is not appropriate to receive the element of data, at least one remedial action may be performed.
US09270772B2 System and method for providing access to presence status for mobile devices
A system and method are provided for enabling access to presence status for mobile devices. The method comprises receiving, via an application programming interface, an application inquiry, the application inquiry requesting a presence data for at least one mobile device; responsive to receiving said inquiry, obtaining network data from one or more network infrastructure nodes associated with providing service to the at least one mobile device; determining a response to the application inquiry based upon the network data; and providing the response via the application programming interface.
US09270771B2 System and method for performing a delegation operation
A method in which a delegated client sends a request message containing operation information, a delegated client identity (ID), and a delegating client ID at the time of sending an operation request to a target system. The target system receives the request message and delegation-authorizes the delegated client by examining whether the delegating client is authorized to perform the operation requested by the request message and also whether the delegating client has delegated the authority to perform the operation to the delegated client sending the request message using the delegating client ID included in the request message. A new header is provided which includes ID information of the delegating client in the request message. When receiving the request message, the target system performs a procedure for authenticating and authorizing not only the delegated client but also the delegating client using the delegating client ID.
US09270755B2 Managing inventory data for a distributed cache provided by a plurality of wireless mobile devices
An apparatus and computer program product are disclosed for distributing inventory data for a distributed cache provided by a plurality of wireless mobile communication devices. A first inventory data is received from a first wireless mobile communication device, and a second inventory data is received from a second wireless mobile communication device. The first inventory data and the second inventory data are compared to identify one or more matching data resources. In response to identifying one or more matching data resources, a matching inventory data that identifies the one or more matching data resources is sent to the first wireless mobile communication device. The matching inventory data enables the first wireless mobile communication device to access each of the one or more matching data resources stored on the second wireless mobile communication device.
US09270751B2 Peer to peer connection
A method in a first device for setting up a peer-to-peer IP connection between the first device and a second device may include sending a request to a second device for setting up the peer-to-peer IP connection between the first device and the second device. The request may include an IP address of the first device. Alternatively, an IP address of the second device may be received in a message from the second device. The peer-to-peer IP connection between the first device and the second device is then set up. The setting up may be initiated by one of the parties associated with the first device or the second device by connecting to the other party using the IP address of the other party.
US09270744B2 System and method for providing additional functionality to existing software in an integrated manner
An improved system and method are disclosed for improving functionality in software applications. In one example, the method includes a mobile device having a network interface, a processor, and a memory configured to store a plurality of instructions. The instructions include instructions for a superblock application having instructions for a function block included therein. The function block is configured to provide functions that are accessible to the superblock application via an application programming interface (API). The functions are provided within the superblock application itself and are accessible within the superblock application without switching context to another application on the mobile device.
US09270743B2 Systems and methods for distributed rules processing
The invention provides in some aspects a distributed rules processing system that includes a first and second digital data processors that are coupled to one another by one or more networks. A rules base and a transactional data base are each coupled to one of the digital data processors; both may be coupled to the same digital data processor or otherwise. One or more coordination modules (e.g., “proxies”), each of which is associated with a respective one of the digital data processors, makes available to a selected one of those digital data processors from the other of those digital data processors (i) one or more selected rules from the rules base, and/or (ii) one or more data from the transactional database on which those rules are to be executed. The selected digital data processor executes one or more of the selected rules as a rules engine, executes one or more of the selected rules using a rules engine, and/or processes one or more data from the transactional database with rules executing on a rules engine.
US09270741B2 Namespace and storage management application infrastructure for use in management of resources in a storage system environment
A namespace and storage management (NSM) application includes an infrastructure configured to enable efficient management of resources in a storage system environment. The NSM application executes on a NSM console and interacts with an NSM server to integrate namespace management and storage management in the storage system environment. The NSM server, in turn, interacts with one or more remote agents installed on host machines in the environment to convey application programming interface (API) function calls that enable remote management of the resources.
US09270739B2 Flow-directed collaborative communication
Resolving a query received from a first node in a network includes accepting, by a second node in the network, ownership of the query from the first node, receiving, at the second node, an identification of a third node in the network, wherein the identification is received from a user of the second node and the user of the second node believes that a user of the third node has information necessary to resolve at least part of the query, and transferring, by the second node, ownership of the at least part of the query to the third node, wherein the accepting, the receiving, and the transferring dynamically generates a data structure that traces a propagation of the query, and the data structure is accessible to an origin of the query.
US09270729B2 Projector, projection display system, and corresponding method and recording medium
A method includes sending image related working status information representing image-related working status of a projector that projects images, to a client over a network in response to a request to provide the image-related working status of the projector. The image-related working status is related to display characteristic of the projected image. The method includes controlling the image-related working status of the projector based on the control information received from the client over the network in response to the sent image-related working status information. The image-related working status information is sent to the client with screen information from which the client can display a user interface that includes the image-related working status information.
US09270728B2 Creation, sharing and embedding of interactive charts
Systems and methods for generating and sharing interactive charts are described. The interactive charts are generated in an online portal that allows users to customize the interactive features of the chart. An online portal may also be provided to allow users to automatically embed interactive chart(s) in another website without reprogramming the code of the website each time the interactive chart(s) are changed or new interactive chart(s) are added.
US09270727B1 Facilitating access to data in network page generation code
Disclosed are various embodiments for facilitating access to data in network page generation code supplied by customers of a hosting provider. A request for a network page is obtained from a client. The network page is associated with a network site hosted by a hosting provider on behalf of a customer. Page generation code supplied by the customer is obtained, and this code includes a dynamic data variable. One or more service calls are executed based at least in part on the dynamic data variable to obtain one or more data objects. The page generation code is executed to generate the network page in response to the request, where the page generation code is executed with the data objects in place of the dynamic data variable.
US09270722B2 Method for concatenating frames in communication system
A method for concatenating a first frame of samples and a subsequent second frame of samples, the method comprising applying a phase filter adapted to minimizing a discontinuity at a boundary between the first and second frames of samples.
US09270721B2 Switching between adaptation sets during media streaming
A device for retrieving media data includes one or more processors configured to retrieve media data from a first adaptation set including media data of a first type, present media data from the first adaptation set, in response to a request to switch to a second adaptation set including media data of the first type: retrieve media data from the second adaptation set including a switch point of the second adaptation set, and present media data from the second adaptation set after an actual playout time has met or exceeded a playout time for the switch point.
US09270719B2 Device connection proxy through cloud to optimize network messages
Technology is disclosed herein for optimizing network connections using proxy connections. According to at least one embodiment, a computing device receives requests for network connections with remote servers from multiple computer applications running on the computing device. The computing device further establishes a network connection with a proxy server. The proxy server initiates and maintains proxy network connections with the remote servers. The proxy server can delay at least one network message of the network messages received from the remote servers such that the proxy server sends the network messages to the computing device in a batch. The proxy server batches the network messages such that the computing device stays at a high power consumption state for a time period shorter than an overall time period for which the computing device would stay at the high power consumption if the network messages were sent individually without batching.
US09270718B2 Internet streaming and the presentation of dynamic content
Internet streaming from broadcast radio or television stations is described wherein triggers for dynamic content from internal or external systems cause an encoder system to generate command messages, and to synchronize those command messages with any delays associated with the triggering events. Command messages are delivered through a streaming media distribution system to client media players which obtain or present the dynamic content, in association with any desired configuration changes to the appearance of the media player or the method or manner in which the dynamic content is presented.
US09270716B2 Presenting question and answer data in a social networking system
A social networking system includes a question and answer system that displays to a viewing user questions and answers provides by other users of the social networking system. The question and answer system may display answers to a particular question in a way that visually indicates both the global answer set and a subset of the global answer set, such as the viewing user's friends. The social networking system may also display to a viewing user news stories about another user asking or answering a question, where the format of the displayed new stories is based on an affinity that the viewing user has for the user who provided the question or answer mentioned in the news story. The displayed questions and/or answers may be associated with an object in the social networking system, where the user interface provides additional information about those objects.
US09270715B2 System and method for coordinating display of shared video data
A system and method for coordinating multiple-user edits of shared digital data. A coordinating device may receive commands to edit shared digital data from multiple independently operated user computers. The coordinating device may determine that two or more of the commands from respective user computers are mutually exclusive, redundant or otherwise conflict. The coordinating device may incorporate one of the multiple commands into a global command queue and may annul the other(s). The coordinating device may transmit the global commands to all user computers to be executed locally for implemented the same shared digital data thereon.
US09270712B2 Managing moderation of user-contributed edits
A geographic information system allows users to access a map database and to contribute map data to the database. Proposed edits to the map are queued for review by a reviewer users. Reviewing users can subscribe to review edits in regions and/or to types of map features. Reviewers can share their subscriptions with other reviewers. In the moderation queue, the proposed edits are ranked and those edits proposed by users who also review are optionally ranked higher and thus reviewed sooner than edits proposed by users who do not review or review less. The history of reviewers is analyzed to identify those with expertise in a particular region and/or type of map feature. One embodiment of the system includes a database containing geographic data, an inference module, a spam prevention module, a reviewing module and a publishing module.
US09270688B2 Tool for the centralized supervision and/or hypervision of a set of systems having different security levels
A tool for the supervision and/or hypervision of a set of systems of different security levels, the systems transmitting messages, includes a display system, and further includes, for each supervised network, at least one gateway for converting the messages to image data, said gateways transmitting said image data via a one-way video link to the display system, at least one of the supervised networks being of a higher security level than the area in which the display system is placed. The invention applies notably to the centralized supervision of several information systems when said systems are subjected to different security constraints.
US09270683B2 Storage device authentication
Systems and methods authenticate storage devices. In one implementation, a computer-implemented method is provided for authenticating a storage device. According to the method, a manifest that identifies a destination is receive. A transfer station reads a digital signature from the storage device. The digital signature is validated and, based on the validation of the digital signature, a transfer of one or more files from the storage device via the transfer station is authorized to the destination identified in the manifest.
US09270681B2 Network access and profile control
A method and apparatus for managing network profiles and/or access to a network. Network profiles stored in a computer may be deleted and/or a connection to a wireless network may be disabled when a corresponding access period for the network has been exhausted. The access period may define an amount of time, a number of connections, a number of bits or packets of information, or other measure of connectivity to a network and/or maintenance of profile information related to the network that may be limited in some fashion.
US09270660B2 System and method for using a separate device to facilitate authentication
A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may perform, for example, operations including receiving a request from a first device to access information content of a second device. The process further includes determining that the first device is authorized to access the information content according to authorization credentials, and determining a token associated with the request in response to determining that the first device is authorized to access the information content. The token is forwarded to the first device, and it is confirmed that the token was received at the first device. Access to the information content of the second device is authorized in response to confirming that the token was received at the first device. Other embodiments are disclosed.
US09270656B2 Communication device, communication method, computer program, and communication system
There is provided a communication device including a communication unit configured to include different communication modes, and an information exchange unit configured to exchange, before the communication unit transmits information to a transmission destination device, an available communication mode and authentication information in advance with the transmission destination device using a communication mode included in the communication unit, the authentication information being used when communication is performed using the communication mode.
US09270655B1 Configurable one-time authentication tokens with improved resilience to attacks
Configurable one-time authentication tokens are provided with improved resilience to attacks. A one-time authentication token is configured by providing a plurality of token features that may be selectively incorporated into the configurable one-time authentication token, wherein the plurality of token features comprise at least two of the features; obtaining a selection of at least a plurality of the token features: and configuring the one-time authentication token based on the selected token features, wherein the configuration must always enable forward security for the one-time authentication token and at least one additional selected token feature. A configurable one-time authentication token is provided that comprises a plurality of selectable token features that may be selectively incorporated into the configurable one-time authentication token, wherein the configurable one-time authentication token is always configured with the forward security and at least one additional token feature.
US09270652B2 Wireless communication authentication
A replay attack from an unauthorized user is easily avoided by wireless communication authentication. A mobile node acquires an inherent identification number owned by a base station connected to the mobile node, and sends authentication packet data including the identification number and information providing transfer route information for packet data sent to the mobile node through a wireless link. A router holds an inherent identification number owned by a base station connected to the router, and, if the identification number held by the router agrees with the identification number included in the authentication packet data sent from the mobile node, registers the transfer route information in a route table based on the authentication packet data.
US09270651B2 Authentication and initial key exchange in ethernet passive optical network over coaxial network
A method comprising generating an updated security key upon expiration of a key exchange timer, transferring the updated security key to a Coaxial Network Unit (CNU), retaining an original key, wherein the updated security key comprises a different key identification number than the original key, accepting and decrypting upstream traffic that employs either the original key or the updated key, after transferring the updated security key to the CNU, creating a key switchover timer, before the key switchover timer expires, verify that upstream traffic transferred from the CNU on a logical link uses the updated security key, and when upstream traffic is encrypted using the updated security key, begin using the updated security key to encrypt downstream traffic and clear the key switchover timer.
US09270650B2 System and method for providing secure subnet management agent (SMA) in an infiniband (IB) network
A system and method can provide a secure subnet management agent (SMA) in an Infiniband (IB) network. The system can comprise a host channel adapter (HCA) associated with a host, wherein the HCA operates to implement a SMA in its embedded firmware. The HCA can prevent a host administrator or software with root access to the host from changing the embedded firmware on the HCA and modifying one or more states associated with the SMA without being endorsed by a site administrator. Additionally, the SMA is associated with a management key, and the host is not allowed to observe the management key without being endorsed by a site administrator.
US09270647B2 Client/server security by an intermediary rendering modified in-memory objects
In an embodiment, a method comprises intercepting, from a server computer, a first set of instructions that define one or more objects and one or more operations that are based, at least in part, on the one or more objects; generating, in memory, one or more data structures that correspond to the one or more objects; performing the one or more operations on the one or more data structures; updating the one or more data structures, in response to performing the one or more operations, to produce one or more updated data structures; rendering a second set of instructions, which when executed by a remote client computer cause the remote client computer to generate the updated data structures in memory on the remote client computer, wherein the second set of instructions are different than the first set of instructions; sending the second set of instructions to the remote client computer.
US09270644B2 Thwarting keyloggers using proxies
Techniques for using a proxy server are described herein. In response to a request received from a client for accessing a Web page provided from a remote Web server over a network, a proxy server retrieves the Web page from the remote Web server and presents the Web page to the client. The proxy server presents an input interface to the client to allow a user of the client to log into the proxy server without having to type at the client. The proxy server causes one or more keys in an input field of the Web page to be entered without a user having to type at the client. Thereafter, the proxy server intercepts traffic between the client and the remote Web server over the network.
US09270639B2 Load balancing among a cluster of firewall security devices
A method for balancing load among firewall security devices in a network is disclosed. Firewall security devices are arranged in multiple clusters. A switching device is configured with the firewall security devices by communicating control messages and heartbeat signals. Information regarding the configured firewall security devices is then included in a load balancing table. A load balancing function is configured for enabling the distribution of data traffic received by the switching device. A received data packet by the switching device is forwarded to one of the firewall security devices in a cluster based on the load balancing function, the load balancing table and the address contained in the data packet.
US09270636B2 Neighbor lookup operations in a network node
A network node maintains a neighbor data structure in the form of a hash table containing multiple buckets for storing mapping entries, with each entry specifying a local address corresponding to a global address. The table is based on a hash function that generates a corresponding hash value for each global address. Each bucket is associated with a unique hash value and is implemented as a corresponding balanced tree containing a corresponding set of nodes, with each node storing a corresponding mapping entry. Upon receiving a lookup request containing a first global address, the node determines a first bucket by applying the hash function to the first global address, and then traverses a first tree corresponding to the first bucket to find a first entry having a global address equaling the first global address. Concurrent non-blocking access is permitted to various portions of the tree during changes in the tree.
US09270626B1 System and method for detecting unwanted content
A system and method for detecting unwanted electronic content, such as spam. As a user operates an application to send messages, several metrics are tracked to allow the system to analyze her activity. Illustrative metrics may include, but are not limited to, block count (e.g., how many other users have blocked her), block rate (e.g., the rate at which other users block her), peer symmetry (e.g., percentage of her messages that are to other users that have her in their address book), message uniqueness (e.g., how unique her messages are from each other), peer uniqueness (e.g., how unique the addressees of her messages are), and message rate (e.g., the rate at which she sends messages). Periodically, metrics may be compared to corresponding thresholds. Depending on whether a threshold is crossed, and which threshold is crossed, she may be banned from using the application or placed on a watch list.
US09270617B2 Load controller framework
The present disclosure involves systems, software, and computer-implemented methods for controlling service load in a cloud-based system. An example method includes receiving a first request for the network service from a client, evaluating a load condition associated with the network service, the load condition indicating an availability of the network service to receive requests, returning a unique token associated with the first request to the client in response to the load condition indicating that the network service is not available to receive the requests, receiving a second request for the network service from the client, the second request including at least a portion of the first request and the unique token, evaluating the load condition associated with the network service, and prioritizing the second request based on the unique token in response to the load condition indicating that the network service is available to receive the requests.
US09270616B1 Low-latency quality of service
Systems, methods and computer readable media can be operable to apportion a transmission medium's available resources between multiple subscribers and to allocate a subscriber's apportioned resources between a plurality of sub-flows. The available resources of a transmission medium can be apportioned between subscribers receiving data through the transmission medium and the resources apportioned to a subscriber can be allocated to different data flows by giving priority to low-latency data packets over normal-latency data packets.
US09270613B2 Cluster-free techniques for enabling a directory protocol-based domain name system (DNS) service for high availability
Cluster-free techniques for enabling a directory protocol-based Domain Name System (DNS) service for high availability are presented. A DNS service monitors a node for wild-carded IP address that migrate to the node when a primary node fails to service DNS requests for a directory of the network. The DNS service forwards the wild-carded IP address to a distributed directory service for resolution and uses the distributed directory service to dynamically configure the DNS service for directly handling subsequent DNS requests made to the directory over the network while the primary node remains inoperable over the network.
US09270606B2 Tiered contention multiple access (TCMA): a method for priority-based shared channel access
Quality of Service (QoS) support is provided by means of a Tiered Contention Multiple Access (TCMA) distributed medium access protocol that schedules transmission of different types of traffic based on their service quality specifications. In one embodiment, a wireless station is supplied with data from a source having a lower QoS priority QoS(A), such as file transfer data. Another wireless station is supplied with data from a source having a higher QoS priority QoS(B), such as voice and video data. Each wireless station can determine the urgency class of its pending packets according to a scheduling algorithm. For example file transfer data is assigned lower urgency class and voice and video data is assigned higher urgency class. There are several urgency classes which indicate the desired ordering. Pending packets in a given urgency class are transmitted before transmitting packets of a lower urgency class.
US09270605B2 Method and system of setting network traffic flow quality of service by modifying port numbers
In one exemplary aspect, a method of managing computer network traffic flow quality of service includes the step of configuring a configurable network device to provide a specified quality of service to a data packet with a specified quality of service configuration based on a quality of service classification port number in a data packet header of the data packet. At the source node, a data packet is generated. At the source node, replacing the destination port number in the data packet header with a quality of service classification port number. At the source node, the destination port number is included in an options field of the data packet's header. The data packet is communicated to the configurable network device. At the destination node, receiving the data packet, replacing the quality of service classification port number with the original destination port number, and forwarding the packet to a destination process.
US09270602B1 Transmit rate pacing of large network traffic bursts to reduce jitter, buffer overrun, wasted bandwidth, and retransmissions
A system, method and medium is disclosed which includes selecting, at a software component of a network traffic management device, a first bucket having a first predetermined transmit time. The disclosure includes populating one or more selected data packet descriptors associated with one or more corresponding data packets in the first bucket. The disclosure includes releasing the first bucket to a hardware component of the network traffic management device, wherein the hardware component processes the one or more data packet descriptors of the first bucket for the first predetermined transmit time.
US09270600B2 Low-latency lossless switch fabric for use in a data center
In one embodiment, a switch includes a processor and logic integrated with and/or executable by the processor, the logic being configured to cause the processor to receive a packet at an ingress port of the switch, forward the packet to a buffered switch when at least one congestion condition is met, where the buffered switch is configured to evaluate congestion conditions of a fabric network, and forward the packet to a low-latency switch when the at least one congestion condition is not met, where the low-latency switch includes an additional policy table provided with forwarding decisions based on the congestion conditions of the fabric network. Other switches, systems, methods, and computer program products for providing low latency packet forwarding with guaranteed delivery are described according to more embodiments.
US09270593B2 Prediction based methods for fast routing of IP flows using communication/network processors
Aspects of the disclosure pertain to a system and method for providing prediction based, fast routing of IP flows. A hash table-based mechanism is implemented by the system such that classification information obtained and/or utilized for a first packet of an IP flow is applied to subsequent packets of the IP flow, thereby promoting packet processing efficiency for the flow.
US09270587B2 Method and apparatus for routing messages of a positioning protocol in a wireless network
Methods and apparatuses are provided that facilitate routing of messages of a positioning protocol, such as long term evolution (LTE) positioning protocol annex (LPPa). A positioning server can determine a network area identifier of one or more messages based at least in part on an identifier of a base station associated with the one or more messages. Based at least in part on the network area identifier, the positioning server can provide the one or more messages to an intermediate network node corresponding to the one or more base stations, such as a mobility management entity (MME). MME can similarly provide the one or more messages to an optional gateway between it and the one or more base stations based at least in part on receiving the network area identifier in the one or more messages. In addition, a base station can update positioning information with the positioning server.
US09270584B2 Diverse paths using a single source route in computer networks
In one embodiment, a source device determines a source route from itself to a destination device in a computer network, and forwards a first packet on the source route with the source route included within the first packet. In addition, the source device generates a second packet with the source route included within the second packet, the second packet also including an indication to cause one or more of a plurality of transit devices to forward the second packet to a reachable 1-hop neighbor of a device in the source route two hops away from the respective transit device. The source device may then forward the second packet itself, as do one the one or more transit devices on a diverse path based on the source route, to a particular reachable 1-hop neighbor of a particular device in the source route two hops away from the source (or transit) device.
US09270580B1 Method and system for traffic isolation in a network
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates traffic isolation (TI) in a network. During operation, the system configures a set of switch ports as members of a TI zone. The switch ports are part of an end-to-end path across one or more switch domains between a source and a destination. The switch ports within the TI zone and outside the TI Zone belong to a common storage area network (SAN) zone which compartmentalizes data for security purposes. The system then determines whether a data flow entering a switch domain belongs to the TI zone. The system subsequently forwards the data flow to the next port within the TI zone if the data flow belongs to the TI zone.
US09270579B2 Synchronization of traffic multiplexing in link aggregation
Synchronization of traffic multiplexing in link aggregation is described. In an embodiment, a first link aggregator and a second link aggregator are associated with a plurality of links. The first link aggregator maintains an identifier for each link indicating at least a state of enabled or disabled. A synchronized clock is established between the first link aggregator and the second link aggregator. A particular link of the plurality of links is transitioned. Wherein, the transitioning is performed by the first link aggregator sending, to the second link aggregator, a first message identifying a particular time to transition the particular link. The first link aggregator receives, from the second link aggregator, a second message indicating that the particular time is acceptable. In response to a determination that the second message indicates that the particular time is acceptable and that the synchronized clock has reached the particular time, transitioning the link.
US09270578B2 Management of multiple network routes
Managing network communications between network hosts that have multiple physical network ports coupled to the network. A first host broadcasts address resolution requests from first physical network ports of the first host and receives responses to the address resolution requests from second physical network ports of a second host. The responses include respective connection bandwidths of the second physical network ports. The first host generates connectivity information describing a plurality of available communication routes in the network between first physical network ports of the first host and second physical network ports of the second host based on the responses, from which a subset of available communication routes can be selected for data transfer.
US09270577B2 Selection of one of first and second links between first and second network devices
Embodiments herein relate to selection of one of first and second links between first and second network devices. The first link is to transmit the traffic between the first and second network devices directly and the second link is to transmit the traffic between the first and second network devices through a network appliance.
US09270572B2 Layer-3 support in TRILL networks
One embodiment of the present invention provides a switch. The switch includes an IP header processor and a forwarding mechanism. The IP header processor identifies a destination IP address in a packet encapsulated with an inner Ethernet header, a TRILL header, and an outer Ethernet header. The forwarding mechanism determines an output port and constructs a new header for the packet based on the destination IP address. The switch also includes a packet processor which determines whether (1) an inner destination media access control (MAC) address corresponds to a local MAC address assigned to the switch; (2) a destination RBridge identifier corresponds to a local RBridge identifier assigned to the switch; and (3) an outer destination MAC address corresponds to the local MAC address.
US09270565B2 System for estimating download speed from passive measurements
A system for passive estimation of throughput in an electronic network is disclosed. The system may include an plurality of mobile devices configured to operate in the network and may further include an electronic data processor. The processor may be configured to access flow records for data flows associated with the mobile devices during a predetermined time interval. Additionally, the processor may be configured to annotate the flow records with an application field and a content provider field. The processor may also be configured to determine a flow type of each data flow based on the application field and the content provider field of the flow records. Furthermore, the processor may be configured to generate a throughput index that only includes non-rate-limited flow types. Moreover, the processor may be configured to estimate maximum throughput for each data flow having non-rate-limited flow types in the throughput index.
US09270564B2 System and method for congestion notification in an ethernet OAM network
A network element in an Ethernet OAM network is operable to detect congestion associated with an OAM domain and generate a congestion notification to MEPs in the OAM domain using a modified Ethernet OAM protocol. When a network element detects congestion in one or more queues associated with an MEP in an OAM domain, it triggers a congestion state. The MEP transmits a congestion notification to other MEPs in the OAM domain. The notifying MEP, as well as other MEPs receiving the congestion notification, initiate a network management protocol message to a network management system for the OAM domain. The MEPs in the OAM domain may also propagate the congestion notification to MEPs in higher maintenance level OAM domains.
US09270556B2 Flow control in packet processing systems
Flow control in a packet processing system includes obtaining metric data measuring utilization of at least one resource in the packet processing system over intervals of a time period. A value of a flow control load parameter is adjusted during each of the intervals based on comparing the metric data with at least one condition that indicates depletion of the at least one resource. A value of a packet flow budget is established for the packet processing system in each of the intervals based on the respective value of the flow control load parameter in each of the intervals.
US09270555B2 Power mangement techniques for an input/output (I/O) subsystem
A method and system to improve the power management for an I/O subsystem. In one embodiment of the invention, the power management of an upstream port of the I/O subsystem is improved by increasing the upstream link utilization when the upstream port is an active power state and by increasing or prolonging the power saving period of the upstream port when the upstream port is in a low power state.
US09270554B2 Communication apparatus and delay detecting method
A communication apparatus includes a time-stamp generating unit for generating a time stamp during transmission or reception of a PDU transmitted and received, a transmission-data storing unit, a reception-data storing unit, a frame processing unit configured to generate a PDU including a data refresh instruction to the other node, periodical transmission data in the transmission-data storing unit, and a frame transmission time acquired from the time-stamp generating unit and store, upon receiving a PDU from the other node, periodical transmission data included in the PDU in the reception-data storing unit, and a one-way-delay detecting unit for determining, upon receiving the PDU, according to whether a next PDU has been received within a first delay allowable time after the last PDU was received, or whether a transmission time of the PDU is within a second delay allowable time, presence or absence of occurrence of a delay of a PDU.
US09270552B2 Energy monitoring system using network management protocols
A system and method are disclosed for integrating an intelligent electronic device (IED) in a network management system. The IED may be configured to communicate using the network management protocol of the network management system. IED variables may be mapped to associated network management protocol variables to allow the network management system to access the IED variables using the network management protocol.
US09270551B2 Dynamic reclassification of client devices in a network
One or more devices may store attribute information identifying multiple attributes associated with a client device that is associated with a particular classification; reclassify the client device based on the attribute information; and provide, based on reclassifying the client device, classification information to a network device to cause the network device to associate a particular policy set, of multiple policy sets, with the client device. The classification information may identify an updated classification of the client device. The updated classification may be different from the particular classification. The particular policy set may be based on the updated classification of the client device. The particular policy set may include an instruction used to process a data flow provided to or provided from the client device.
US09270550B2 Session-based traffic analysis system
The present invention relates to a session-based traffic analysis system that may accurately analyze an amount of traffic for each transmission control protocol (TCP) connection using only one-way packets. The system may accurately analyze an amount of two-way traffic using only one-way connection information.
US09270547B1 Determining device counts
A system may analyze beacon data over a particular period of time in order to estimate a total number of unique devices that visited web entities during that period.
US09270537B2 Connection distribution within a connectional parallelism architecture
Example embodiments provide various techniques for distributing connections within a connectional parallelism architecture. In one embodiment, a method is provided where resource utilizations of connection groups are measured. Here, each connection group is assigned to one of multiple processors. A probability distribution is accessed that maps probabilities assigned to relative resource utilizations. A relative resource utilization of one of the connection groups is determined based on a resource utilization of the one connection group relative to other resource utilizations of other connection groups. A probability from the probability distribution is identified based on the determined relative resource utilization, and based on the identified probability, a connection is assigned to this connection group for execution by one of the processors assigned to this connection group.
US09270535B2 Inferred discovery of a data communications device
Methods, apparatus, and products for inferred discovery of a data communications device connected to a router, unreachable by a management module, and characterized by a device address are disclosed that include querying, by the management module, the router for connection data and identifying, by the management module in dependence upon the connection data, the device address.
US09270530B1 Managing imaging of multiple computing devices
Systems and methods for managing imaging of multiple computing devices are provided. A device image manager determines a number of device images which may be loaded by the computing devices. The device image manager transmits a set of device images to the computing devices, which then store the device images. When provisioning of one or more of the computing devices is desired, the device image manager selects a device image or receives selection of a device image. The device image manager then sends a provisioning command device to the appropriate computing devices identifying the selected device image. If the computing devices have stored the selected device image, the computing devices may load the selected device image without requiring retransmission of the device image.
US09270526B2 Multi-terminal positioning method, and related device and system
The present invention discloses a multi-terminal positioning method, and a related device and system. The method includes: establishing, by a primary terminal after receiving a collaboration request activation signal triggered by a user, connections to secondary terminals in a wireless connection manner; calculating and displaying, by the primary terminal according to received device configuration parameters of the secondary terminals and the number of secondary terminals, at least one arrangement shape of all terminals and at least one demarcated gesture that matches each arrangement shape, and recording one arrangement shape selected by the user and one demarcated gesture that matches the arrangement shape; receiving, by the primary terminal, sensor trigger information sent by at least one secondary terminal; and calculating, by the primary terminal according to the recorded arrangement shape and demarcated gesture, and the sensor trigger information, an arrangement sequence of all terminals and relative positions between the terminals.
US09270520B2 Wireless communication network sensor information for control of industrial equipment in harsh environments
In certain embodiments, a system includes a master node device. The master node device includes communication circuitry configured to facilitate communication with a welding power supply unit via a long-range communication link, and to facilitate wireless communication with one or more welding-related devices via a short-range wireless communication network. The master node device also includes control circuitry configured to receive sensor data from one or more sensors within a physical vicinity of the short-range wireless communication network, and to route the sensor data to final destinations for the one or more sensors.
US09270519B2 Address translation device, address translation method, and computer product
An address translation device includes a receiver that receives a packet that is from a communication apparatus on a private network to a communication apparatus on a global network; an address determiner that determines whether a destination address of a first packet received by the receiver matches a destination address of a second packet that was received before the first packet; a translator that when the address determiner makes a determination of no matching, translates a source private address of the first packet to a source global address that has been allocated to the second packet; and a transmitter that transmits the first packet that has been translated by the translator.
US09270518B2 Computer system and rule generation method
Disclosed is a computer system provided with a plurality of sensors provided in a plurality of devices to observe a predetermined amount, and a server for examining the physical amount transmitted from the sensors, wherein the plurality of devices are classified into a first device group and a plurality of second device groups, a plurality of second examination rules indicating the examination methods of the physical amount are set in the plurality of second device groups, the server calculates the similarity between the first device group and each of the second device groups, and, on the basis of the calculated similarity, a first examination rule to be set in the first device group is extracted from the plurality of second examination rules set in the plurality of second device groups.
US09270517B1 Tuple construction from data packets
In one approach for processing a data packet, in at least one stage of a plurality of stages of a pipeline circuit, a respective packet field value is extracted from the data packet. In each stage of the plurality of stages, a respective tuple field value is inserted into a respective tuple register of the stage at a respective offset. The respective tuple field value in the at least one stage is based on the respective packet field value. In each stage of the plurality of stages except a last one of the stages, the contents of the respective tuple register of the stage are provided as input to a next one of the stages.
US09270516B2 Peer-to-peer interconnection between service providers
Embodiments of methods and systems for peer-to-peer interconnection between service providers are presented. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving, at a session controller, a request for access to a target communication device, the target communication device being communicatively coupled to a foreign service provider network. The method may also include referencing a list of available routes for peer-to-peer communication with the target communication device on the foreign service provider network from a database of available routes. Additionally, the method may include identifying, in a peer-to-peer interconnect controller, a path for communication with the target communication device in response to the list of available routes. In one embodiment, the method also includes establishing a peer-to-peer communication session from a peering point to the target communication device over the path.
US09270513B2 Method and apparatus for algorithm on flexible square-QAM coherent detection
In Software defined elastic optical networks, modulation format and constellation size may be flexibly modified. As a result, digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm should be compatible with different modulation schemes or readily reconfigurable at the optical coherent receiver. Therefore we propose a novel cascaded adaptive blind equalizers based on decision-directed modified least mean square (DD-MLMS) algorithm for polarization separation and carrier phase recovery. The algorithm is square quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) independent so that it could be applied in the elastic optical systems. The 28 Gbaud polarization multiplexing quadrature phase shift keying (PM-QPSK) and PM-16QAM back-to-back transmission is demonstrated. The results show that the performance is very close to the general algorithm but with a benefit of the reduced operation complexity. We transmit the 8×240 Gb/s PM-16QAM wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) signal over 1200 km standard single mode fiber (SSMF) based on the proposed blind equalization with a bit error ratio (BER) less than 2×10−2.
US09270505B2 Communication system
Each of nodes in a communication system includes a pull-up circuit connected between a power source and a transmission line and a switching portion connecting and disconnecting the transmission line and a ground line. One of the nodes is a master node, and the others of the nodes are slave nodes. The driver circuits are driven so that the master node constantly outputs the transmission code of logic 1 and the slave node outputting the transmission code of logic 0 extends the width of the low level of the transmission code of logic 1 on the transmission line. The master node further includes a current limiting section limiting an electric current that flows to the transmission line via the pull-up circuit based on at least a signal level of the transmission line.
US09270504B2 System and method for linearizing power amplifiers
A power encoder includes a pulse width modulator for modulating a signal according to a set of thresholds to produce a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal and a switch mode power amplifier for amplifying the PWM signal by switching states of switching devices according to amplitudes of the PWM signal. At least one or combination of a distribution of values of the voltage thresholds in the set and a distribution of values of a current generated by different switching devices are non-uniform. The set of voltage thresholds includes at least two positive voltage thresholds.
US09270501B2 Method for removing signal interference based on multiple input multiple output
Disclosed is a method for removing signal interference in a MIMO-based interference removing apparatus including transmitting a reference signal to at least one receiver; if channel information is estimated by the receiver, receiving the estimated channel information from the receiver as a feedback signal; and producing transmission pre-coding matrix, beam forming matrix, and weighted matrix using the received channel information. Further, the method includes transmitting information containing the transmission pre-coding matrix, the beam forming matrix, and the weighted matrix by including them in a pilot signal to the receiver, and the MIMO-based interference removing apparatus comprises at least one transmitter.
US09270495B2 Demodulation reference signal based channel state information feedback in OFDM-MIMO systems
A method and apparatus for using demodulation reference signal (DM-RS) based channel state information (CSI) feedback in Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing-multiple-input multiple-output (OFDM-MIMO) systems is disclosed. The wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) receives one or more resource blocks from a base station, wherein the resource blocks (RBs) include demodulating reference signals (DM-RS) and precoder information. The precoder information is sent unicast or broadcasted over a common control channel. The WTRU estimates an effective channel estimate based on the DM-RS, derives an unprecoded channel based on the effective channel and the precoder information, generates CSI feedback based on the unprecoded channel, and transmits the CSI feedback to the base station. Alternatively, the WTRU estimates an effective channel estimate based on the DM-RS, quantizes the effective channel estimate and transmits the CSI feedback to the base station.
US09270490B2 Contextual presence system and associated methods
Systems and methods dynamically form a context group that has a plurality of members and propagate payload data between the members. A database associates a context identifier (ID) of the context group with a user ID of each member. A context manager, communicatively coupled with the database, receives a join context request containing the context ID and a user ID from each said member, creates the context group, if not existing, within the database in response to the join request, and adds the user ID, if not existing, of each said member to the database in association with the context ID. A payload handler receives payload data from one of said members and propagates the payload data to other said members of the context group.
US09270488B2 Reordering PCP flows as they are assigned to virtual channels
A Network Flow Processor (NFP) integrated circuit receives, via each of a plurality of physical MAC ports, PCP (Priority Code Point) flows. The NFP also maintains, for each of a plurality of virtual channels, a linked list of buffers. There is one port enqueue engine for each physical MAC port. For each PCP flow received via the physical MAC port associated with a port enqueue engine, the engine causes frame data of the flow to be loaded into one particular linked list of buffers. Each engine has a lookup table circuit that is configurable so that the relative priorities of the PCP flows are reordered as the PCP flows are assigned to virtual channels. A PCP flow with a higher PCP value can be assigned to a lower priority virtual channel, whereas a PCP flow with a lower PCP value can be assigned to a higher priority virtual channel.
US09270487B1 Full bisection bandwidth network
A full bisection bandwidth network, having a plurality of nodes and a plurality of paths among the nodes, is divided into a plurality of Virtual Local Area Networks (“VLANs”) by assigning paths to the VLANs such that each VLAN satisfies a spanning tree protocol and all paths are active in at least one VLAN.
US09270482B2 Method for activating a network component of a vehicle network system
A method and system for activating at least one temporarily inactive network component of a network system for a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle. A central network device of the network system is connected via signals to the network components by a path inside the network system, the path extending at least partially across a network segment of the network system. The network segment connects via signals the network component and a first activation device associated therewith to a switch device arranged in the path and to a second activation device associated therewith in an unbranched manner. The central network device responds to the first activation device by the switch device by sending a network function control signal.
US09270481B2 Communication system and method for isochronous data transmission in real time
A communication system which has a PROFINET IRT system with first communication devices for isochronous transmission. A special IRT bridge device is created, so that a traditional standard Ethernet communication device can also transmit real time-critical data over the PROFINET IRT system. The bridge device has a timer, which is synchronized in time with the timers of the first communication devices. In addition, a device for analysis of the transmission point in time of a real time-critical data telegram received by the communication device and a control unit are provided, such that the control unit controls the forwarding of the respective real time-critical data telegram to at least one second communication device as a function of the analyzed transmission point in time.
US09270459B2 Techniques for achieving tenant data confidentiality from cloud service provider administrators
Techniques for achieving tenant data confidentiality in a cloud environment are presented. A daemon process within a Tenant Storage Machine (TSM) manages a key store for a particular tenant of a cloud storage environment having multiple other tenants. Just TSM storage processes are given access to the key store. Data is decrypted for the particular tenant when access is needed and data is encrypted using encryption keys of the key store when written in the cloud storage environment.
US09270454B2 Public key generation utilizing media access control address
In some embodiments, in a registration process where a user device is registering for access to a network, a public/private key pair may be generated based on a media access control (MAC) address of a user device. The generated public/private key pair may be transmitted to the user device for future access to the network. In some embodiments, where a user device is requesting access to a network, a MAC address embedded in a public key may be utilized to determine whether access to the network should be granted.
US09270453B2 Local security key generation
A calling device may obtain a first calling security parameter by registering with a network and obtain a second calling security parameter in response to causing an application authentication architecture of the network to verify that that the calling device is authorized to access a network service corresponding to a communication application stored by the calling device. The calling device may communicate the first and second calling security parameters to a called device and receive first and second called security parameters from the called device in response to communicating the first and second calling security parameters. The calling device may generate a security key based on the first calling security parameter, the second calling security parameter, first called security parameter, and the second called security parameter, and use the security key to encrypt or decrypt communication between the calling device and the called device.
US09270452B2 Encryption using real-world objects
Technologies are generally described for providing an encryption method using real-world objects. In some examples, a method may include capturing, by a first electronic device, an external object, generating an object signal associated with the external object, generating an encryption key based on the object signal, and transmitting data encrypted by the encryption key to a second electronic device.
US09270451B2 Privacy enhanced spatial analytics
Method, system, and computer program products, implementing and using techniques for processing data representing observations of entities. An anonymized key is generated. The anonymized key represents a spacetime region with which an entity is associated. The spacetime region represents a spatial region and a time interval. The entity is associated with the spacetime region based on spacetime coordinates for the entity.
US09270450B2 Method and device for mutual authentication
A method of authenticating communication between a first and second party (or node) over an insecure, high bandwidth communications network, in which the first party (C) authenticates the second party (M) using a communications protocol comprising a first communications phase through a first communications channel over the insecure, high bandwidth communications network to establish a secure mode of communications between the first and second party, followed by a second communications phase of receiving information from the second party over a second communications channel, such as an empirical channel, and enabling a user to make a human comparison of the information received from the second party with information generated by the first party thereby enabling the user to authenticate the second party in the event of the information from both parties agrees.
US09270427B2 System and method for multiplexing control and data channels in a multiple input, multiple output communications system
A system and method for system and method for multiplexing control and data channels in a multiple input, multiple output (MIMO) communications system are provided. A method for transmitting control symbols and data symbols on multiple MIMO layers includes selecting a first set of codewords from Ncw codewords, distributing control symbols onto the first set of layers, placing data symbols of the first set of codewords onto the first set of layers, placing data symbols of the (Ncw-Ncw1) remaining codewords to remaining layers if Ncw>Ncw1, and transmitting the multiple MIMO layers. The first set of codewords is associated with a first set of layers from the multiple MIMO layers, and the Ncw codewords are to be transmitted simultaneously and the first set of codewords comprises Ncw1 MIMO codewords, where Ncw and Ncw1 are integers greater than or equal to 1. The remaining layers are MIMO layers from the multiple MIMO layers not in the first set of layers.
US09270420B2 Data communication using 2D bar codes
A Two-Dimensional (2D) code receiver and transmitter, and methods for their operation in a 2D code communication system, are provided. The method for operating the 2D code receiver includes receiving a sequence of 2D codes from a 2D code transmitter having data encoded therein, wherein the 2D codes of the sequence are received in succession, and decoding the received a sequence of 2D codes into the data.
US09270414B2 Multiple-field based code generator and decoder for communications systems
A method of encoding data for transmission from a source to a destination over a communications channel is provided. The method operates on an ordered set of input symbols and includes generating a plurality of redundant symbols from the input symbols based on linear constraints. The method also includes generating a plurality of output symbols from a combined set of symbols including the input symbols and the redundant symbols based on linear combinations, wherein at least one of the linear constraints or combinations is over a first finite field and at least one other of the linear constraints or combinations is over a different second finite field, and such that the ordered set of input symbols can be regenerated to a desired degree of accuracy from any predetermined number of the output symbols.
US09270412B2 Permute codes, iterative ensembles, graphical hash codes, and puncturing optimization
Described herein are new error-correction (channel) codes: permute codes, iterative ensembles of permute and spinal codes, and graphical hash codes. In one aspect, a wireless system includes an encoder configured to encode data using one of the aforementioned channel codes. The wireless system also includes a decoder configured to decode the encoded data.
US09270411B2 Indicating end of idle sequence by replacing certain code words with alternative code words
Methods and systems for indicating an end of an idle sequence, including: encoding a first frame, encoding a basic idle sequence including code words, producing an idle sequence by replacing certain M code words of the idle sequence with M alternative code words, and encoding a second frame. Each one of the M alternative code words appears in the basic idle sequence. And a second communication node, which is unable to determine a starting point of the second frame based only on a received idle sequence, is able to determine a start of the second frame based on a difference between the received idle sequence and the basic idle sequence.
US09270408B2 WLAN data rate adaption method
A method of communication between a transmitter and a receiver over a channel is provided. The transmitter is capable of transmitting packets with multiple data rates, each of which adapts to a respective channel condition with regards to the performance of the communication. The method comprises the steps of at the level of the transmitter: upon detection of a disappearance of deterioration of the channel condition, transmitting packets with a data rate selected from a group of stable data rates that are stably used before the disappearance of the deterioration but larger than the last data rate before disappearance of the deterioration.
US09270407B2 Method and apparatus for selective blanking of a motor vehicle license plate
A license plate assembly includes a frame receiving a conventional license plate and at least one blanking flash generator arranged to generate a blanking flash at the license plate in response to a monitoring flash from an external monitoring device. The monitoring device is designed to take an image of the license plate and the blanking flash is obscuring the license plate to prevent or interfere with the taking of the image.
US09270397B2 Cascaded communication of serialized data streams through devices and their resulting operation
In one embodiment, an apparatus cascades groups of serialized data streams through devices, and performs operations based on information communicated therein. A received group of serialized data streams is aligned, but not framed, and forwarded to a next device (e.g., a next stage in a linear or tree cascaded formation of devices). Eliminating the framing and subsequent serialization operations performed on the received group of serialized data streams reduces the latency of communications through the cascaded devices, which can be significant when considered in relation to the high-speed communication rates. The received group of serialized data streams is also framed to create a sequence of data frames for processing (e.g., associative memory lookup operations, controlling multiplexing of received downstream serialized data streams, general or other processing) within the device.
US09270385B2 System and method for quantum based information transfer
A system for communicating data comprising sender and receiver subsystems; at least one data input; at least one entangled photon source; first photons of the pairs of entangled photons outputted by the at least one photon source being processed by one of the sender or receiver subsystem; second photons of the pairs of entangled photons being processed by the other of the sender or receiver subsystem; a photonic element configured to receive the first photons of the pairs of entangled photons and enable interference therebetween; at least one absorber configured to absorb the first photons after passage through the beam splitter, the absorbance of the first photons operating to transfer the properties of the entanglement to the second photons of the pairs of entangled photons; and a Bell state measurement element operatively associated with the receiver subsystem configured to measure the second photons of the pairs of entangled photons.
US09270369B2 Correction table for interferometric optical signal-to-noise ratio monitor
The present disclosure includes a computer-implemented method of correcting a measured optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) comprising receiving an optical signal and measuring OSNR of the optical signal using an interferometric OSNR monitor device. The method also includes applying a correction table to the measured OSNR to generate a corrected OSNR using a controller, the correction table comprising a correction function to counteract an artifact in the measured OSNR. The method also includes storing the corrected OSNR in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The present disclosure also includes associated devices applying the correction table and methods of generating the correction table.
US09270368B2 Methods and apparatuses for improved Ethernet path selection using optical levels
Methods and apparatuses are provided to employ an enhanced Loss of Signal (ELOS) function in network equipment (NE) such as an Ethernet switch that is coupled to an optical path by a transceiver (e.g., an SFP). Diagnostics such as optical path receive (Rx) level from the transceiver are used by the ELOS function to regenerate LOS status from the transceiver when either LOS or designated low Rx level conditions exist. By generating an enhanced LOS (ELOS) on a designated low Rx level, the ELOS function ensures a failing data path is removed before an undesirable amount of errors occur to enhance Ethernet path selection and improve Carrier Ethernet quality of service.
US09270367B2 Method and system for automatically discovering ODUflex bandwith lossless adjustment capability
A method and system for automatically discovering a flexible rate Optical Data Unit (ODUflex) bandwidth hitless resizing capability are provided in the present document. The method includes: a source end interface of a link sending link summary message to an opposite end interface of the link, wherein the link summary message carries information of whether the source end interface of the link supports the ODUflex bandwidth hitless resizing capability; after receiving the link summary message, the opposite end interface of the link feeding back message to the source end interface of the link according to said information or according to said information and whether the opposite end interface of the link supports the ODUflex bandwidth hitless resizing capability, the source end interface of the link determining whether the link supports the ODUflex bandwidth hitless resizing capability according to the message fed back by the opposite end interface of the link.
US09270366B2 Impairment aware path computation element method and system
The disclosure includes an apparatus comprising: a path computation element (PCE) comprising a processor configured to: receive a path computation element protocol (PCEP) path computation request from a path computation client (PCC), wherein the path computation request comprises an impairment validation request that directs the PCE to perform an impairment validation of a network path; after receiving the path computation request, compute a network path; and perform an impairment validation of the network path specified by the impairment validation request. In another embodiment, the disclosure includes a method comprising: sending, by a PCC a PCEP path computation request to a PCE, wherein the request directs the PCE to perform routing and wavelength assignment (RWA) and a first impairment validation of a network path, wherein the request comprises a type of signal quality of the network path which indicates the first type of impairment validation to be performed.
US09270364B2 Bump button
A fixed bump button may: (1) report its identification to a server connected to the internet when the button is bumped by a mobile device; and/or (2) emit a beacon signal identifying the button to a mobile device.
US09270363B1 System and method for continuous broadcast service from non-geostationary orbits
A method, apparatus for providing at least near continuous broadcast services to one or more terrestrial receiver stations is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of satellites, each satellite in an inclined, elliptical geosynchronous orbit, each satellite providing a portion of the at least near continuous broadcast service to the terrestrial receiver. In one embodiment, the system also comprises a receiver station having a legacy antenna modified so as to include a sensitivity pattern substantially matched to the track of the apparent position of the satellites actively broadcasting information to the receiver stations. The present invention is also embodied in a method for receiving at least near continuous broadcast service from at least one of a plurality of satellites at a time, each satellite in an inclined, elliptical, geosynchronous orbit.
US09270337B2 Mobile wireless communications device including NFC antenna matching control circuit and associated methods
A mobile wireless communications device includes a near-field communications (NFC) transceiver, NFC antennas and an NFC control circuit. The NFC transceiver generates a received signal strength based on a received signal from an adjacent NFC device. The NFC control circuit includes an antenna switch circuit coupled between the NFC transceiver and the NFC antennas. A capacitance sensing circuit is coupled to the NFC antennas to determine capacitance values thereof. A processor operates the antenna switch circuit based upon the received signal strength and the capacitance values.
US09270327B2 Interference cancellation in a spread spectrum communication system
A method and apparatus used to transmit and receive weighted data transmissions over a plurality of antennas using a plurality of different pilot signals. Different pilot signals are produced and a different pilot signal of the plurality of pilot signals is transmitted on each of a plurality of antennas. Each of the pilot signals is derived from a pseudo noise (PN) sequence and a bit sequence of the PN sequence for each of the pilot signals is different. A plurality of data streams are produced in which each of the data streams has data bits combined with bits of a PN sequence. The data streams are weighted in response to weight information received from a receiving device and the plurality of weighted data streams are transmitted using the plurality of antennas.
US09270325B2 Iterative interference suppression using mixed feedback weights and stabilizing step sizes
A receiver is configured for canceling intra-cell and inter-cell interference in coded, multiple-access, spread-spectrum transmissions that propagate through frequency-selective communication channels. The receiver employs iterative symbol-estimate weighting, subtractive cancellation with a stabilizing step-size, and mixed-decision symbol estimate. Receiver embodiments may be implemented explicitly in software of programmed hardware, or implicitly in standard Rake-based hardware either within the Rake (i.e., at the finger level) or outside the Rake (i.e., at the user of subchannel symbol level).
US09270324B2 Efficient generation of spreading sequence correlations using lookup tables
A signal is received containing a block of multiple symbols, each symbol containing information bits spread by a spreading sequence of chips. Each spreading sequence is determined by a channelization sequence and a first or second complex-valued scrambling sequence of chips. Each block is processed using a set of spreading sequences using correlations between pairs of spreading sequences in the set. Spreading sequence correlation values between each pair are manipulated and stored in lookup tables. A lookup table address is determined using a first set of reduced basic scrambling bits to retrieve correlation values. The first set of reduced basic scrambling bits is based on manipulation of one set of the basic scrambling bits that reduces a number of bits included in the determined address to less than a number of binary values in the one set of basic scrambling bits. The one set of basic scrambling bits is used to construct one of the first and second complex-valued scrambling sequences. The retrieved correlation values may be used in mitigating spreading sequence correlation interference between spreading sequences in the set.
US09270322B2 Printed circuit board and diplexer circuit
A printed circuit board 100 for forming a diplexer circuit 200 comprising a first connector 110 for connecting a first filter 112 and second connector 120 for connecting a second filter 122, wherein the first connector 110 and the second connector 120 are located on opposite sides of the printed circuit board 100.
US09270320B2 Wireless communication apparatus and control method therefor
A wireless communication apparatus for performing wireless communication using an antenna selected from a plurality of antennas. A received power detection unit detects received power received by an antenna selected from the plurality of antennas. A reflected power detection unit detects transmitted reflected power of the selected antenna. A switching unit switches an antenna used for communication to another antenna based on a variation of the received power detected by the received power detection unit and an amount of electric power of the reflected power detected by the reflected power detection unit.
US09270318B2 Automated arrangement of a mobile apparatus in equipment
An arrangement for mounting of a mobile apparatus in equipment provided with a first movable support displaceable along a main axis, the first movable support being able to receive the mobile apparatus for it to be arranged in a location in which it is held in position by a holding device. The holding device is itself displaceable along a longitudinal axis between a retracted position in which the mobile apparatus can be placed in or removed from the location and an extended position in which the mobile apparatus is held in position in the housing. The equipment is in addition provided with a mechanical transmission means arranged between the movable support and the holding device so that the displacements of the mobile apparatus drives those of the holding device.
US09270298B2 Selecting storage units to rebuild an encoded data slice
A method begins with a processing module of a dispersed storage network (DSN) identifying an encoded data slice of a set of encoded data slices that requires rebuilding and identifying storage units of the DSN that store the set of encoded data slices. The method continues with the processing module determining a rebuilding metric regarding the identified encoded data slice and selecting a sub-set of the storage units for retrieving a decode threshold number of encoded data slices of the set of encoded data slices based on the rebuilding metric. When the decode threshold number of encoded data slices have been retrieved, the method continues with the processing module decoding the decode threshold number of encoded data slices to produce a reconstructed data segment and generating a rebuilt encoded data slice from the reconstructed data segment.
US09270296B1 Method and system for soft decoding through single read
Systems and methods are disclosed for decoding solid-state memory cells using one-read soft decision decoding. A controller of a data storage device is configured to perform a first decoding of a first code word based at least in part on data associated with a reading of the first code word, and to detect a decoding failure associated with the first decoding. The controller determines reliability information for decoding the first code word in response to the decoding failure based at least in part on data associated with a successful decoding of a second code word and performs a second decoding of the first code word based at least in part on the reliability information.
US09270295B1 Lossless compression of data based on a modified differential pulse code modulation (DPCM) scheme
A system for decoding data based on a hybrid approach includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that are executable by the processor. The operations include determining a first output based on a magnitude in difference between an initial sample and a previous sample, where the first output includes a first number of bits. The operations also include determining a second output based on a magnitude in difference between the initial sample and a predicted sample, where the second output includes a second number of bits. The operations also include comparing the first output with the second output to determine if the first number of bits is greater than the second number of bits. Finally, the operations include selecting one of the first output and the second output as the final output, wherein selection is based on the final output being expressed in the least number of bits.
US09270294B2 Method and device for producing a digital signal
A method is provided for generating a digital signal from an analog signal generated using a frequency converter on the basis of pulse width modulation with a variable period duration, values of the digital signal corresponding to an average value of the analog signal over an associated period duration of the pulse width modulation. The method includes the acts of: generating a bit stream on the basis of the analog signal using a sigma-delta modulator, the bit stream being generated with a constant modulator clock; generating temporally successive digital samples during an associated period duration by filtering the bit stream using a number of digital filters, intervals of time between the temporally successive digital samples being multiples of the modulator clock, the digital filters being started with a time delay with respect to one another in the intervals of time of the multiples of the modulator clock, and a respective digital filter outputting an associated digital sample, and forming an average value of the digital samples generated during the associated period duration, the average value forming the value of the digital signal (DS) for the associated period duration.
US09270292B2 Efficient time-interleaved analog-to-digital converter
A time-interleaved analog-to-digital converter for conversion of an analog input signal to a digital output signal having a sample rate R comprises an array of N constituent analog-to-digital converters that operate based on an analog-to-digital converter operation clock to provide the digital output signal, N sample-and-hold units connected to the input of a respective constituent analog-to-digital converter that operate based on a respective one of M of timing signals, wherein no timing signal is used to clock two or more of the sample-and-hold units, one or more digital output processing units that provide a sample of the digital output of a constituent analog-to-digital converter as a sample of the digital output signal based on the respective one of the M timing signals, and a timing circuit that generates the analog-to-digital converter operation clock signal, each timing signal having a period of M/R, wherein M is less or equal to N.
US09270282B2 Methods and systems for switching between clocks
A clock signal for use by a circuit can be switched between clocks glitchlessly. A series of delay devices are connected in series based on an integral timing ratio. The integral timing ratio can be based on a ratio of the one of the clock's frequency or period to the other's frequency or period. When a clock select signal is received, the select signal is qualified and then delayed an amount of time based on the integral timing ratio, using the delay devices. The number of delay devices in each series can be the next largest integer to the integral timing ratio, plus one. The clock signal can then be glitchlessly switched from one clock to the other.
US09270273B2 Level shifter
A level shifter is provided. This level shifter includes a first driver, a second driver, a capacitor, and a common mode circuit. The first driver has a first signal path that is coupled between an input terminal and an output terminal, and the first driver operates in a first voltage domain. The second operates in a second voltage domain and includes a second signal path and latch. The second signal path is coupled between an input terminal and an output terminal of the second driver, and the latch that is coupled to the input terminal of the second signal path. The capacitor that is coupled between the output terminal of the first signal path and the input terminal of the second signal path, and the bias circuit is coupled to the input terminal of the second signal path and operates in the second voltage domain.
US09270272B2 Clock integrated circuit
The clock circuit of an integrated circuit operates with variations such as temperature, ground noise, and power noise. Various aspects of an improved clock integrated circuit address one or more of the variations in temperature, ground noise, and power noise.
US09270261B2 Signal adjustment circuit
A circuit may include a phase detector circuit, a charge pump circuit, a delay circuit, and a multiplexer circuit. The phase detector circuit may be configured to output a comparison signal based on a comparison of a phase of an inversion of a first clock signal and a phase of a multiplexer signal. The charge pump may be configured to integrate the comparison signal and to output a control voltage based on the integration of the comparison signal. The delay circuit may be configured to receive a second clock signal, to delay the second clock signal based on the control voltage, and to output the delayed second clock signal. The second clock signal may be a divided version of the first clock signal. The multiplexer circuit may be configured to output the multiplexer signal based on the delayed second clock signal.
US09270258B2 Lamp signal generation circuit and CMOS image sensor
A ramp signal generation circuit 21 comprises a plurality of unit circuits 221 to 22N, each including a capacitor 26 having one end 26a held at a fixed potential and a current source 27 connected to the other end 26b of the capacitor 26, while the other ends 26b of the capacitors 26 in the plurality of unit circuits 221 to 22N are connected to each other with a wiring member W.
US09270250B2 High frequency matching system
An impedance adjustment apparatus of the invention performs impedance matching using characteristic parameters, even where a high frequency power source of variable frequencies is used. The apparatus is applicable to a power supply system using a high frequency power source of variable frequencies. Characteristic parameters obtained by targeting a portion of combinations of position information (C) of a variable capacitor and output frequency information (F) of the power source are stored in a memory. A T-parameter acquisition unit acquires characteristic parameters corresponding to (Cnow, Fnow) at the current time. An output reflection coefficient calculation unit calculates a reflection coefficient of an output end. A target information specifying unit, based on the above information and a target input reflection coefficient, specifies target combination information in which a reflection coefficient of an output end approaches the target input reflection coefficient. Impedance matching is performed based on this information.
US09270247B2 High quality factor inductive and capacitive circuit structure
A circuit includes a first finger capacitor having a first bus line coupled to a first plurality of finger elements and a second bus line coupled to a second plurality of finger elements. The first bus line is parallel to the second bus line. The circuit further includes an inductor having a first leg oriented perpendicular to the first bus line and the second bus line. The first leg of the inductor is coupled to a center of the first bus line.
US09270240B2 Circuit layout and method for frequency-dependent matching of a high-frequency amplifier stage
A circuit for frequency-dependent matching of a high-frequency amplifier stage includes high-frequency stage with an output to a total high-frequency path that divides a total frequency band into a plurality of partial frequency paths for respectively preset partial frequency bands. The outputs of the plurality of partial frequency paths are reunited again into the total high-frequency path, following the processing of the partial frequency bands of these partial frequency paths. The partial frequency paths include a matching network surrounded by a first and second pass filter. At least one partial frequency path is switchable, when a control signal is supplied thereto.
US09270237B2 Semiconductor memory with threshold current setting circuit
A semiconductor device includes a first trans-impedance amplifier, a second trans-impedance amplifier, a peak hold circuit, a comparator and a threshold current setting circuit. The first trans-impedance amplifier converts a first current signal generated by a first photodiode, into which an optical signal is input, into a first voltage signal. The second trans-impedance amplifier converts a second current signal generated by a second photodiode, to which an optical signal is blocked, into a second voltage signal. The peak hold circuit holds the peak value of the first voltage signal. The comparator outputs a pulse on the basis of the first and second voltage signals. The threshold current setting circuit draws out a threshold current.
US09270235B2 Amplifier and amplifying method
An amplifier includes: an amplifying device configured to amplify an input signal; and a matching circuit coupled to the amplifying device, and including an impedance transformer and a parallel resonance circuit coupled to a wiring which spans from the impedance transformer to the amplifying device, wherein a circuit length of the impedance transformer is longer than one-fourth of wavelength of an electronic wave having a frequency which is substantially equal to a resonance frequency of the parallel resonance circuit.
US09270234B2 System and method for operating a power amplifier and a load modulation network
A system and method for operating a power amplifier comprising the steps of determining a first impedance generated by a first amplifier component of the power amplifier, determining a second impedance generated by a second amplifier component of the power amplifier, and, adjusting the first impedance or the second impedance to an optimal impedance condition by altering a current ratio of a current delivered by the first amplifier component and a current delivered by the second amplifier component.
US09270233B2 Amplifier circuits
Radio Frequency (RF) amplifier circuits are disclosed which may exhibit improved video/instantaneous bandwidth performance compared to conventional circuits. For example, disclosed RF amplifier circuits employ various concepts for reducing an overall circuit inductance or enabling an increase in capacitance for a given circuit size.
US09270225B2 Concentrating solar energy collector
Systems, methods, and apparatus by which solar energy may be collected to provide electricity, heat, or a combination of electricity and heat are disclosed herein.
US09270216B2 Method and device for processing a motor signal
A method and a device process a motor signal of a direct current motor, in particular of an adjustment drive of a motor vehicle. The armature current and the motor voltage of the direct current motor are detected and used for determining the counter induction voltage of the direct current motor, by which a number of control signals having different ripple frequencies for controllable frequency filters are generated. The current ripples that are generated in a frequency dependent manner by the frequency filters, to which a filter input signal derived from the armature current and the motor voltage is applied, are synchronized with each other in the course of the ripple count.
US09270215B2 Method and device for compensating for load factors in permanently excited motors
The invention relates methods and devices for compensating for load factors in permanently excited motors, wherein the rotor position is determined from the inductivities of the phases. The methods and devices are characterized by a stabilization of the inductivity-based signals for the determination of the position of the rotor in permanently excited motors against load factors. To this end, advantageously current-dependent faults of the angular values determined during the operation of the motor are corrected. For this purpose, in order to correct the inductivity-based determination of the position of the rotor, in a measuring device either the phase currents are measured or the intermediate circuit current is captured. Furthermore, including at least one motor-specific characteristic value, at least one current-dependent correction value, which is determined from said characteristic value, is applied in a correction device against the inductivity-based signals, which result from the inductivity-based determination of the position of the rotor, of a device for determining the inductivities such that switch states, which are loaded with the correction value by a control device and thus are corrected, are present at a converter for actuating the motor.
US09270210B2 System and method for managing DC link switching harmonics
A distributed motor drive system includes a power management module and multiple inverter modules integrated with the motors and located on a machine or process remote from the power management module. The power management module distributes DC voltage and command signals to each of the inverters, where the DC voltage is distributed between modules via a DC link cable. The integrated inverters execute switching routines to convert the DC voltage to an AC voltage suitable for controlling the motor. Each of the power management module and the inverters includes a portion of the DC bus. The current on the DC link cable is monitored and general bus utilization as well as overload conditions are reported.
US09270207B2 Nano generator and method of manufacturing the same
A nanogenerator with at least one nanostructure and method of manufacturing the same are provided. The method of manufacturing the nanogenerator includes forming at least one nanostructure including an organic piezoelectric material on a substrate.
US09270205B2 Regenerative drive for piezoelectric transducers
A method for regenerative driving of one or more transducers includes, for each of a plurality of driving cycles, enabling a number of transducers for driving, configuring a configurable capacitive energy storage element based on the number of enabled transducers and a desired overall capacitance, transferring a predetermined quantity of energy from a power supply to a first inductive energy transfer element, distributing the predetermined quantity of energy from the first inductive energy transfer element to the configurable capacitive energy storage element and to one or more other capacitive energy storage elements, each of the other capacitive energy storage elements coupled to an associated transducer, transferring energy from the one or more capacitive energy storage elements and from the configurable capacitive energy storage element to a second inductive energy transfer element, and transferring energy from the second inductive energy transfer element to the power supply.
US09270200B2 Method of controlling an inverter and a controller for controlling an inverter
A method of controlling an inverter for converting a DC input to an AC output, the method including measuring a voltage of an AC output produced by the inverter; determining a drive voltage for controlling the inverter; and if a difference in amplitude and/or phase between the drive voltage and the measured voltage exceeds a predetermined threshold, modifying the drive voltage to reduce the difference in amplitude and/or phase between the drive voltage and the measured voltage. The method may be particularly useful for controlling an inverter during “islanded” operation with a variable load, and may therefore be useful e.g. in marine, battlefield, disaster relief and/or aviation electrical power systems.
US09270196B2 Low-cost self-oscillating driver circuit
A driver circuit for powering a load is disclosed. The driver circuit includes a self-oscillating half-bridge circuit, a resonant driver in electrical communication with the self-oscillating half-bridge circuit, and a DC voltage supply in electrical communication with the resonant driver. The self-oscillating half-bridge circuit is configured to generate a high-frequency AC signal. The resonant driver is configured to limit a current of the high-frequency AC signal and produce a limited output voltage based on the high-frequency AC signal. The DC voltage supply is configured to rectify the limited output voltage into a DC output voltage including a substantially constant current for powering the load.
US09270195B2 Power converter including a power module allowing main current supply and cutoff
A power converter includes a power module allowing supply and cutoff of main current, a driver module controlling supply and cutoff of the main current, a high potential side semiconductor device, and a low potential side semiconductor device. Plural power module side wirings are connected with respective electrodes contained in the high and low potential side semiconductor devices. Plural driver module side wirings are provided on the driver module as wirings connected with the plural corresponding power module side wirings. Conductors are disposed in the vicinity of a plane on which the plural power module side wirings are provided and a plane on which the plural driver module side wirings are provided, and electrically connected to surround magnetic flux generated by current looping at least through a power source transformer, the driver module side wirings, and the power module side wirings.
US09270184B2 Control circuit and terminal for cable compensation and wake-up of primary-side regulated power converter
A control circuit of a power converter is provided. It comprises a signal generation circuit generating an oscillation signal in accordance with an output load. A PWM circuit generates a switching signal according to a voltage-loop signal, a current-loop signal and the oscillation signal for regulating an output of the power converter. A regulation circuit receives a compensation signal for an output cable compensation and a wake-up. The compensation signal is coupled to increase a switching frequency of the switching signal once the output of the power converter is lower than a low-voltage threshold. The control circuit reduces the voltage drop of the output when the output load is changed.
US09270180B2 DC-DC converter with adaptive minimum on-time
A DC-DC converter has a high-side transistor series with a low-side transistor and an inductor connected to a node therebetween, a gate driver circuit has a high-side gate driver circuit coupled to the high-side transistor; a low-side gate driver circuit coupled to the low-side transistor; a minimum pulse with circuit coupled to one of the high-side and low-side gate, the minimum pulse width circuit adaptively controlling a pulse width of a drive signal to the high-side or low-side transistor by the propagation delay of the respective gate driver circuit.
US09270179B2 Thermal balance conversion circuit
A thermal balance conversion circuit includes a voltage conversion circuit, a temperature detection circuit, a PWM controller, and a signal integration controller. The voltage conversion circuit includes a plurality of voltage conversion units, and each of the voltage conversion units converts the DC voltage of a external power to a driving voltage. The temperature detection circuit includes a plurality of temperature detection units, and the plurality of temperature detection units detects temperatures of the plurality of voltage conversion units. The pulse width modulation controller outputs a plurality of different phase PWM signals according to each of the voltage conversion units. The signal integrated controller receives the PWM signals from the PWM controller to control the voltage conversion of each of the voltage conversion unit.
US09270173B2 DC converter circuit and power supply circuit
A DC converter circuit having high reliability is provided. The DC converter circuit includes: an inductor configured to generate electromotive force in accordance with a change in flowing current; a transistor including a gate, a source, and a drain, which is configured to control generation of the electromotive force in the inductor by being on or off; a rectifier in a conducting state when the transistor is off; and a control circuit configured to control on and off of the transistor. The transistor includes an oxide semiconductor layer whose hydrogen concentration is less than or equal to 5×1019 atoms/cm3 as a channel formation layer.
US09270172B2 DC-DC converter, timing signal generating circuit, and operating method thereof
A DC-DC converter including an output stage, a feedback loop, a pulse-width modulation (PWM) generating circuit, and a driving circuit is disclosed. The output stage is coupled to an input voltage and an output inductor to provide an output voltage. The feedback loop is coupled to the output inductor and receives the output voltage to generate a control signal. The PWM generating circuit is coupled to the feedback loop and receives the control signal. The PWM generating circuit also includes a timing signal generating unit which makes the PWM generating circuit to generate a PWM signal according to a correction voltage. The correction voltage is reacted in the output voltage and a first current source related to the input voltage. The driving circuit is coupled to the output stage and the PWM generating circuit and receives the PWM signal to control the operation of the output stage.
US09270171B2 Methods and apparatus for DC-DC converter having dithered slope compensation
Methods and apparatus for a circuit including a DC-DC converter including: a boost converter to provide a DC voltage output from a DC input voltage, the DC output voltage configured to connect with a first load terminal, a feedback module configured to connect with a second load terminal, a switching module having a switching element coupled to the boost converter, and a control circuit coupled to the switching module to control operation of the switching element, the control circuit coupled to the feedback module, wherein the control circuit includes a slope generator to generate a ramp signal having a slope that can vary cycle to cycle.
US09270167B2 Power factor correction circuit having on-period controlling
The present invention includes: a series circuit including a reactor and a switching element connected between the rectified-current output terminals of a rectifier; a series circuit including a diode and a smoothing capacitor for obtaining an output voltage, connected in parallel to the switching element; an error amplifier configured to detect the output voltage, amplify the error between the detected output voltage and a reference voltage, and output an error signal; a zero-current detector configured to output a signal when detecting that a reactor current flowing in the reactor has become zero current; a correction signal circuit configured to detect a switching current flowing in the switching element, and generate a correction signal corresponding to the detected switching current; and an ON-period control circuit configured to control the switching element's ON period in accordance with the error signal and correction signal, from when the zero-current detector detects the zero current.
US09270161B2 Power supply circuit for preventing overvoltage
A power supply circuit preventing any overvoltage to an electronic element includes a voltage conversion unit and a voltage clamping unit. The voltage conversion unit converts voltage of a power supply into an operation voltage of the electronic element, and outputs the converted voltage through an output terminal of the voltage conversion unit. When the voltage output from the output terminal of the voltage conversion unit is more than the operation voltage of the electronic element, the voltage clamping unit effectively clamps the voltage output from the output terminal of the voltage conversion unit down to the operation voltage of the electronic element.
US09270159B2 EMI filter using active damping with frequency dependant impedance
A circuit for providing damping in an electromagnetic interference (EMI) filter with an inductor-capacitor (LC) circuit, includes at least one capacitor connected to receive a common-mode current from the LC circuit; a current sensor that senses the common-mode current; a linear amplifier that amplifies the sensed common-mode current; and a power amplifier that receives the amplified sensed common-mode current and outputs a voltage which creates a damping impedance for frequencies of the common-mode current less than a threshold frequency and absorbs the common-mode current for frequencies greater than the threshold frequency.
US09270150B2 Axial gap rotating electrical machine
Direct drive rotating electrical machines with axial air gaps are disclosed. In these machines, a rotor ring and stator ring define an axial air gap between them. Sets of gap-maintaining rolling supports bear between the rotor ring and the stator ring at their peripheries to maintain the axial air gap. Also disclosed are wind turbines using these generators, and structures and methods for mounting direct drive rotating electrical generators to the hubs of wind turbines. In particular, the rotor ring of the generator may be carried directly by the hub of a wind turbine to rotate relative to a shaft without being mounted directly to the shaft.
US09270143B1 Systems, methods, and devices for providing drive electronics with a backup power supply for an LED luminaire
Systems and methods for providing a combination power supply module containing the main drive electronics and backup drive electronics along with a backup power supply for a light emitting diode (LED) based luminaire are described herein. The power supply module may include a main LED driver that is electrically connected to a main power supply through active power factor correction circuitry and is also electrically connected to an LED or array of LEDs. The power supply module further includes power management circuitry electrically connected to a backup power supply and an emergency LED driver, where the power management circuitry discharges the backup power supply to supply power to the emergency LED driver for powering at least a subset of the LEDs when power is no longer being supplied to the main LED driver. The main LED driver and the emergency LED driver are contained in the same module housing.
US09270142B2 Systems and methods for uninterruptible power supplies with bidirectional power converters
Electrical power systems and methods using bidirectional power converters to provide, among other functions, uninterruptible power supplies for loads such as cell towers. The power-packet-switching power converter can be connected, for example, to a photovoltaic array, batteries, and a critical load such as a cell tower. An AC generator can also be connected in order to power the cell tower and/or to charge the batteries as needed. Green energy utilization is maximized, power conversion efficiency is increased, and system costs are decreased, by having only a single power conversion stage for all conversions.
US09270137B2 System and method for controlling charging energy delivered to an implantable medical device
A charging energy control system includes an implantable medical device (IMD) and an external charger. The IMD receives charging energy to recharge a battery during a charging energy acceptance period and rejects the charging energy during an actual charging energy rejection period. The external charger transmits the charging energy to the IMD in order to recharge the battery. The external charger includes a charging controller configured to determine the actual charging energy rejection period, and regulate the charging energy during which the charging controller predicts a predicted charging energy rejection period of the IMD based on the actual recharging energy rejection period. The charging controller is configured to cease or reduce transmission of the charging energy during a charging energy conservation period that is at least a portion of the predicted charging energy rejection period.
US09270133B2 Monitoring cells in energy storage system
A system for monitoring an energy storage system composed of multiple cells connected in series has a chain of monitors including at least first and second monitors. The first monitor is configured for monitoring at, least a first cell in the energy storage system to produce first monitored data. The second monitor is configured for monitoring at least a second cell in the energy storage system to produce second monitored data. The first monitor is further configured for transferring the first monitored data to the second monitor for delivery to a controller.
US09270131B2 Regenerative suspension with accumulator systems and methods
In exemplary embodiments, a regenerative suspension system replaces or complements a standard shock absorber on a vehicle. A pump attaches via a hose to a central accumulator cylinder that is mounted on a vehicle. Pressurized fluid, air, or other material charges the accumulator. The Pressurized fluid, air, or other material is controllably released via a valve in order to perform work.
US09270129B2 Intelligent pulse temperature control charger
A battery charger employs a temperature sensor and single chip microcomputer (SCM) programs for controlling and performs charging with a pulse current. The polarization occurred during battery charging can be eliminated and the charging voltage and current can be automatically regulated based on ambient temperature. An intelligent pulse temperature control charger has a casing and a charging circuit having a high voltage switch power supply circuit and a low voltage control circuit. In the low voltage control circuit, a SCM is employed for controlling, the SCM has three pins as input terminals connected to a temperature sampling circuit, charging voltage sampling circuit and charging current sampling circuit of the battery, respectively, and the SCM has two pins as output terminals, one connected via a photoelectric coupler with the high voltage switch power supply and the other connected with a dichromatic light emitting tube and a heat dissipation fan.
US09270124B2 Contactless power supply device
A contactless power supply device capable of appropriately supplying power to a plurality of power supplied devices at the same time without contact is provided. A contactless power supply device capable of supplying power without contact even when the positional flexibility of a plurality of power supplied devices is increased is provided. The contactless power supply device determines a power supply condition that power can be most appropriately supplied to a plurality of power supplied devices that need power supply in a short time. The contactless power supply device can appropriately supply power to a plurality of power supplied devices at the same time without contact by controlling the resonant capacitance of a power transmission coil in an optimized power supply condition. The positional flexibility of the plurality of power supplied devices with respect to the contactless power supply device can be increased.
US09270123B2 Wireless power feeding system
Disclosed herein is a wireless power feeding system, including: a power feeding apparatus including a wireless power transmitting grid transmitting an electric power for wireless power feeding, and a first wireless communication grid carrying out wireless communication; and a power receiving apparatus including a wireless power receiving grid receiving the electric power fed thereto from the power feeding apparatus, and a second wireless communication grid adapted to communicate with the first wireless communication system in a wireless manner, the power receiving apparatus serving to feed the electric power thus received to a power source circuit. In the wireless power feeding system one of the power feeding apparatus and the power receiving apparatus includes a control grid controlling availability of power consumption in the power receiving apparatus as a secondary side in accordance with a condition previously set after the power feeding apparatus and the power receiving apparatus carry out authentication.
US09270116B2 Smart outlet
A system for controlling energy usage includes: one or more configurable electrical outlet interfaces, where each given interface includes a switch configured in one of a plurality of positions corresponding to one of a plurality of energy usage modes; and a control panel displaying, for each given mode, configurable parameters to control energy usage of a device coupled to each interface configured with the given mode. Each given configurable electrical outlet interface comprises two states: a first state for allowing electrical current to flow through the given interface; and a second state for blocking the electrical current from flowing through the given interface. For each given mode determined to be “on”, the control panel places each interface configured with the given mode in the first state. For each given mode determined to be “off”, the control panel places each interface configured with the given mode in the second state.
US09270110B2 Fault current limiter with interleaved windings
In one embodiment a fault current limiter comprises a current splitting reactor having interleaved windings to reduce an insertion impedance of the fault current limiter during non-fault conditions. The current splitting reactor having interleaved windings may include a first winding, the first winding including a plurality of sub-windings and a second winding, the second winding including a plurality of sub-windings, the sub-windings of the first winding and the sub-windings of the second winding wounds about the core and interleaved.
US09270099B1 Slidably adjustable electrical box
The electrical box assembly includes a mount operationally coupled to a stanchion. A housing is operationally coupled to the mount. The housing is positionable at a selected position with respect to the stanchion. Moreover, upon installation, the electrical box assembly is able to adjust the elevation of the electrical box assembly in order to aid in trimming over the electrical box assembly.
US09270098B2 Service cable box
Cables boxes and cable distribution systems securely store and route network cables of different types and/or security classifications. More specifically, a service cable box can include one or more chambers that can secure secondary network cables of one or more types and/or classifications. The service cable box can have secure and unsecure connection chambers. Accordingly, the service cable box can segregate network connections of different types and/or security classifications and can selectively provide secured access thereto.
US09270087B2 Spark plug with improved ground electrode joined to metal shell
A spark plug has a metal shell and a ground electrode joined at a base end portion thereof to the metal shell and includes a surface layer and a core higher in thermal conductivity than the surface layer. The core includes a first core member and a second core member. A weld region, where the ground electrode is joined to the metal shell, has an undulating shape. A distance between frontmost and rearmost ends of a part of the weld region in contact with the first core member in the axis direction is 0.15 mm or more.
US09270078B2 Tunable SOI laser
A wavelength tunable silicon-on-insulator (SOI) laser comprising: a laser cavity including: a semiconductor gain medium having a front end and a back end, wherein a mirror of the laser cavity is located at the back end of the semiconductor gain medium; and a phase-tunable waveguide platform coupled to the front end of the semiconductor gain medium, the phase-tunable waveguide platform comprising: a first resonator and a second resonator; at least one resonator being a phase-tunable resonator; wherein the first resonator is any one of: an MMI device including a pair of reflective surfaces defining a resonator cavity therebetween such that the device is configured to act as a Fabry-Perot filter; a ring resonator; or a waveguide Fabry-Perot filter; and wherein the second resonator is any one of: an MMI device including a pair of reflective surfaces defining a resonator cavity therebetween such that the device is configured to act as a Fabry-Perot filter; a ring resonator; or a waveguide Fabry-Perot filter.
US09270077B2 Laser with a self-monitoring controlled optical component system
A self-monitored controlled optical component system may include an electrostrictive actuator, a capacitor matched in capacitance to the electrostrictive actuator, a current source connected to the electrostrictive actuator and to the capacitor that supplies an electric current to the electrostrictive actuator and to the capacitor, an optical element connected to be moved by the electrostrictive actuator, and a comparator connected to receive a first output current from the electrostrictive actuator and a second output current from the capacitor, and output a differenced sensoriactuator signal proportional to the difference between the first output current and the second output current, the sensoriactuator signal representing a current associated with movement of the optical element by the electrostrictive actuator.
US09270073B2 Three-dimensional network aluminum porous body for current collector, electrode using the aluminum porous body, and battery, capacitor and lithium-ion capacitor each using the electrode
It is an object of the present invention to provide a sheet-shaped three-dimensional network aluminum porous body for a current collector which is suitably used for electrodes for nonaqueous electrolyte batteries and electrodes for capacitors, an electrode and a capacitor each using the same. In such a three-dimensional network aluminum porous body for a current collector, the aluminum porous body has been made to have a compressive strength in a thickness direction of 0.2 MPa or more in order to efficiently fill an active material into the sheet-shaped three-dimensional network aluminum porous body.
US09270071B2 Microwave connector with filtering properties
A microwave connector is provided. The microwave connector includes an outer conductor, an inner conductor disposed within the outer conductor and dielectric materials interposed between the outer conductor and the inner conductor, the dielectric materials including a non-dissipative dielectric material and a dissipative dielectric material.
US09270066B2 Plug-in device having a plug with blades and a pivot with a locking cam and a bending cam
A structure of a plug-in device with a foldable plug for connecting a power supply to a power-receiving device is provided. The plug-in device includes an upper housing, a blade element, and a lower housing.
US09270062B2 Electronic device and connector detection circuit thereof
A connector detection circuit is used for detecting whether a first connector of an electronic device is in sufficient connection with a second connector of a connection device. The connector detection circuit includes a pressure sensing module, a switch unit, and an indicator. The pressure sensing module is located under the pins of the first connector, to sense whether there is pressure applied on each pin of the first connector by a corresponding pin of the second connector, and to output sensed results. The switch unit is connected to the pressure sensing module to receive the sensed results, and is connected to the indicator to control the indicator to indicate whether the first connector and the second connector have a sufficient connection with each other according to the sensed results.
US09270059B2 Electrical connector having an EMI absorber
An electrical connector is provided for terminating a cable having a cable shield. The electrical connector includes an electrical contact configured to be terminated to an end of a wire of the cable, and a housing having a body that extends from a mating end to a cable end. The housing includes a connector shield. The electrical contact is held by the housing. The cable end includes a cable channel that is configured to hold an end segment of the cable therein such that the cable shield is electrically engaged with the connector shield. An electromagnetic interference (EMI) absorber is held within the cable channel such that the EMI absorber is configured to extend around the cable shield along at least a portion of a length of the cable channel. The EMI absorber is configured to absorb EMI emitted from the cable.
US09270058B2 Cable connector assembly having a shield shell with a metal shrapnel
A cable connector assembly for being mounted on an external device for docking a mating connector, the cable connector assembly including a shield shell having a plurality of metal shrapnel, an insulative housing received in the shield shell, a plurality of connectors received in the insulative housing, and a cable connecting with the connector. The connector has a metal shell. The metal shrapnel is movable by the external device to be elastically pressed between the connector metal shell and the external device.
US09270056B2 Connector
In a connector that includes a board connector mounted on a board and a cable connector attached to ends of both a shielded cable and a non-shielded cable and connected to the board connector, the cable connector includes contacts connected respectively to the core wires of the shielded cable and the non-shielded cable and a shield shell that surrounds only the contacts connected to the core wires of the shielded cable, and the board connector includes board contacts connected respectively to the contacts of the cable connector and a shield shell that surrounds only the board contacts connected to the contacts surrounded by the shield shell of the cable connector. The connector properly shields the contacts connected to the core wires of the shielded cable in both of the mutually connected connectors and makes it easy to perform impedance matching.
US09270049B2 Waterproof connector
A waterproof connector includes a flat cable having an insulating sheath part in which a conductive wire is coated with an insulating film, a terminal connected to the conductive wire, and a connector housing fitted to a mating connector so as to connect the terminal to a mating terminal of the mating connector. The connector housing includes a mold part which is integrally formed with an end part in an extending direction of the flat cable and which covers a connecting part of the conductive wire and the terminal. The insulating sheath part has a pair of cut-out parts. The pair of cut-put parts are formed at positions which are covered with the connector housing and located at side end parts of the insulating sheath part opposed to each other in a transverse direction of the insulating sheath part.