Document	Document Title
US09440336B2	Ratchet wrench A ratchet wrench includes a body, a ratchet wheel, a pawl, a switch member and a resilient member. The body has three recesses to respectively accommodate the ratchet wheel, the pawl and the switch member. The pawl has a driving portion to be engaged with the toothed portion of the ratchet wheel. The pawl has a second engaging portion which is engaged with a first engaging portion of the ratchet wheel to position the ratchet wheel and the pawl in the two respective recesses respectively. The pawl has a protrusion which has a curved recess and a first stop. The switch member has a second stop, a reception recess and a hole. The protrusion is accommodated in the reception recess. The resilient member extends through the hole and the two ends of the resilient member contact the reception recess and the curved recess respectively.
US09440320B2	Support and gripping device of a mechanical part, suitable for a machine tool A machine tool (2) comprising a mobile table (11) and a support and gripping device (200) fitted to one said machine tool (2) and which comprises:—pincer means (210) for blocking the part;—a support (250) which contains and supports the pincer means (210) and is blocked to the mobile table (11). The pincer means (210) comprise a part blocking pincer (212) and an intermediate pincer (211), respectively one inside the other, both elastic. The part blocking pincer (212) has a structure for gripping the part following interaction between the intermediate pincer (211) and the support. (250); in addition the pincer means (210) are suitable for being placed in rotation around the pincer axis (P-P).
US09440309B2	Apparatus for laser processing a light guide plate and having constant light path distance of a laser beam Provided is a laser processing apparatus for a light guide plate capable of providing a high-quality light guide plate by maintaining a light path at a constant level. The laser processing apparatus includes a plurality of reflecting mirrors that reflect a laser mirror; and a path adjustment block transported in a direction a distance of the light path is reduced when a laser emitting unit is transported in a direction in which the distance of the light path is increased, wherein at least one of the plurality of reflecting mirrors is installed in the path adjustment block, thereby maintaining the distance of the entire light path on which the laser beam propagates at a constant level.
US09440303B2	Heat processing device A reflow furnace (1) has a decompression chamber (5), and air bubbles contained in a molten solder on a substrate (7) are removed in this decompression chamber (5). The substrate (7) supported on a first conveying rail (8) is fed into the decompression chamber (5) by a first conveyance rod (18). The substrate (7) in the decompression chamber (5) is taken out by a second conveyance rod (32) and is conveyed to the exit of the reflow furnace (1) while being supported on the second conveying rail (9). Before the treatment of substrates (7) having different widths, the width of the first conveying rail (8) and the width of the second conveying rail (9) are adjusted. During this adjustment, the second conveyance rod (32) is displaced in the width direction of the substrate (7), with the second conveyance rod (32) kept in the decompression chamber (5), and in association with this, the spacing between right and left rail portions (12a, 12a) in the decompression chamber (5) is adjusted.
US09440296B2	Machining tool for machining and method for cutting a component made of fiber-reinforced plastics A face cutter for machining fiber-reinforced materials such as carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics, glass-fiber-reinforced plastics or plastics reinforced with polyester threads is provided which includes main flutes, which form with trailing premachining lands a cutting wedges with premachining cutting edges, and auxiliary flutes, the number of which corresponds to a number of the main flutes, each trail one of the main flutes in the peripheral sense, each distance in the peripheral sense a postmachining land from the pre-machining land leading in the peripheral sense, and form with the postmachining land a cutting wedge with a postmachining cutting edge. The premachining cutting edges extend alternately with left-hand twist about and untwisted along the tool axis, the postmachining cutting edges trailing the left-hand twisted premachining cutting edges extend untwisted along the tool axis, and the postmachining cutting edges trailing the untwisted premachining cutting edges extend with a left-hand twist about the tool axis.
US09440288B2	FSW tool with graduated composition change A friction stir welding (FSW) tool tip is described. The tool tip comprises a pin portion and a body portion that meet to form a shoulder. The tool tip has a graduated change in composition along its length. In some embodiments, the alloy composition near the end of the pin differs from the alloy composition of the body by at least 0.5% by wt of at least one element. A method of manufacturing a FSW tool tip having a gradual compositional change is also described.
US09440285B2	Device for forming thin films and method for using such a device The invention relates to a device for forming at least one thin film made of a powder material (14). The device includes a storage area, a deposition area (7), and a cylinder (1) having a circular base for depositing and compacting the powder material (14), the latter having been previously moved from a storage area to a deposition area (7). The device further includes a cylinder (1) having a smooth cylindrical surface, said cylinder being rotatably movable (F1) about the axis of revolution (A) thereof, as well as translatably movable in at least one direction (F5) parallel to a main plane in the deposition area (7), between the storage and deposition (7) areas; a scraper (3) that is movable in a direction perpendicular to the main plane of the deposition (7) area, as well as translatably movable in the same direction (F5) as the cylinder (1), between the storage and deposition (7) areas, the scraper (3) being adapted to move the powder material from one area to another (7).
US09440276B2	Exhaust gas muffler for internal combustion engines and deep drawing tool therefor A shell muffler for an internal combustion engine that is formed of a first shell and at least one second shell, which shells are connected at their respective edge regions BS so as to form the shell muffler, each edge region BS having a box-like inner contour KSi, which has four corner regions (E1)-(E4) and a width (B) and a length (L), and an outer contour KSa, and each shell being produced from a shell blank R, which is formed by deforming a sheet metal strip using a deep drawing tool having the shape of the shell, the blank R, after deforming, having an edge region BR with an outer contour KR, said edge region being removed at least partially after the blank R has been cut to size so as to form the outer contour KSa of the edge region BS of the shell. In addition to the box-like basic shape G, the inner contour KSi of the edge region BS of the shell has at least one corner region (E1-E4) which is expanded beyond the width B and the length L of the box-like basic shape (G) and is thus adapted at least partially to the contour KR of the edge region BR to be cut of the blank R.
US09440274B2	Bending-straightening machine for a long workpiece, device for feeding in and removing said workpiece and method for bend-straightening long workpieces The invention relates to a device for feeding long workpieces into a processing machine, such as a bend-straightening machine, and discharging them therefrom, in which the long workpiece which is located in the processing positions defines a processing section and the long workpiece is supported at its two end regions by, in each case, one grasping device. A horizontal conveying means for the long workpiece adjoins at least one head end of the processing section as a straight prolongation of the processing section. At least one of the grasping devices has a gripping head for gripping in a frictionally locking fashion one end of the workpiece which is conveyed here by the horizontal conveying means, and drive means for pulling the workpiece to be straightened into the processing section and for pushing the straightened workpiece out onto the at least one horizontal conveying means by means of the gripping head.
US09440263B2	Material separation and conveyance using tuned waves Systems, methods and computer readable media for material separation and conveying using tuned waves are disclosed.
US09440245B2	Centrifugal separator with inlet arrangement in the form of a set of annular discs or a helically shaped element The invention relates to a centrifugal separator comprising a rotor arranged to be rotatable around an axis of rotation (x). An inlet chamber is formed in the rotor and an inlet pipe extends into the rotor and has an opening in the inlet chamber for supply of a liquid mixture of components. An inlet arrangement is provided in the inlet chamber, comprising a set of annular discs coaxial with the rotor and forming passages for liquid between the discs, or a helically shaped element coaxial with the rotor and forming passages for liquid between the windings of the helically shaped element. The separator further comprises vanes arranged upstream of the inlet arrangement such as to cause a pre-rotation and pre-acceleration of the liquid mixture. The vanes may be provided on a removable element of the rotor.
US09440239B1	Method for progressive separation and extraction of raw materials from residential roofing products This invention relates to a progressive method of separating and extracting raw materials from residential roofing products for re-use as ingredients for asphalt and fiberglass related products, including roofing materials. The method includes reduction, separation, beneficiation and extraction of raw materials. The resulting products are alternative roofing granules, asphalt coated limestone, limestone, recycled asphalt and recycled fiberglass strand powders.
US09440233B2	Microfluidic device for serial fluidic operations An integrated microfluidic device for carrying out a series of fluidic operations includes a housing including a plurality of n microfluidic conduits, wherein n is at least three, and a rotating valve having an internal channel with an entrance port and an exit port that are angularly separated. The rotating valve is positionable in a first position to connect two of the n fluidic conduits via the internal channel, and upon rotating the valve to a second position, two other of the n fluidic conduits are connected by the internal channel. The device further may include one or more fluidic chambers in fluid communication with respective fluidic conduits. Fluid contained in one fluidic chamber is transferrable by application of positive or negative gas pressure through associated fluidic conduits into another fluidic chamber via the internal channel. The device may be utilized to perform a variety of fluidic operations.
US09440230B2	Sampling pipette which detects the passage of the piston through a predetermined position A manually actuated sampling pipette including a piston designed to undergo a dispensing movement during which a first elastic return is loaded, followed by a purge movement during which a second elastic return is loaded, and comprising an electronic device that receives a switching signal notifying passage of the piston through a predetermined position along its dispensing distance or its purge distance, position in which the elastic returns have a predetermined deformation. The pipette also includes a switch that outputs the signal to the electronic device. Furthermore, an elastic support is included which is capable of deforming under the effect of the axial pressure applied by the operator, and the pipette is designed such that deformation of the support, generating switching, is caused when the intensity of the axial pressure is greater than the intensity bringing the elastic returns to their predetermined strain level.
US09440228B2	Perovskite oxide containing hydride ion, and method for manufacturing same [Problem] Many oxide-ion conductors exhibit high functionality at high temperatures due to the large weight and charge of oxide ions, and it has been difficult to achieve the functionality at low temperatures.[Solution] A perovskite oxide having hydride ion conductivity, at least 1 at % of the oxide ions (O2−) contained in a titanium-containing perovskite oxide being substituted with hydride ions (H−). This oxide, in which negatively charged hydride ions (H−) are used for the ionic conduction, has both hydride ion conductivity and electron conductivity. As a starting material, the titanium-containing perovskite oxide is kept together with a powder of an alkali metal or alkaline-earth metal hydride selected from LiH, CaH2, SrH2, and BaH2 in a temperature range of 300° C. or higher and lower than the melting point of the hydride in a vacuum or an inert gas atmosphere to substitute some of the oxide ions in the oxide with the hydride ions, resulting in the introduction of the hydride ions into oxygen sites.
US09440221B2	Titanium oxide dispersion liquid, titanium oxide coating liquid, and photocatalyst coating film Provided is a titanium oxide dispersion liquid that has dispersibility and dispersion stability both at superior levels and, when applied and dried, can form a photocatalyst coating film capable of rapidly developing excellent photocatalytic activity. The titanium oxide dispersion liquid according to the present invention includes titanium oxide particles (A), a dispersing agent (B), and a solvent (C). The titanium oxide particles (A) support a transition metal compound. The dispersing agent (B) includes a poly(acrylic acid) or a salt thereof. The poly(acrylic acid) or a salt thereof in the dispersing agent (B) preferably includes a poly(acrylic acid) alkali metal salt. The poly(acrylic acid) or a salt thereof in the dispersing agent (B) preferably has a weight-average molecular weight of from 1000 to 100000.
US09440220B2	Superabsorbent polymer with crosslinker The present invention further relates to a particulate superabsorbent polymer composition comprising a crosslinker composition that is the reaction product selected from (i) saturated amines and/or saturated polyamines with ethylenically unsaturated glycidyl compounds and/or ethylenically unsaturated polyglycidyl compounds, (ii) ethylenically unsaturated amines and/or ethylenically unsaturated polyamines with saturated glycidyl compounds and/or saturated polyglycidyl compounds, or (iii) ethylenically unsaturated amines and/or ethylenically unsaturated polyamines with ethylenically unsaturated glycidyl compounds and/or ethylenically unsaturated polyglycidyl compounds; and a surface crosslinking agent applied to the particle surface. The present invention further relates to an absorbent article that includes such particulate superabsorbent polymer compositions.
US09440217B1	Apatite sequestration of selenium A method for sequestering selenium is disclosed. The method includes contacting selenium with a stannous modified apatite under conditions whereby the selenium is absorbed by the apatite.
US09440213B2	Nanometer-size-particle production apparatus, nanometer-size-particle production process, nanometer-size particles, zinc/zinc oxide nanometer-size particles, and magnesium hydroxide nanometer-size particles A nanometer-size-particle production apparatus is provided which can prevent the occurrence of waste fluids, and which makes quick and continuous syntheses feasible while suppressing damages to the electrode.The present invention is a nanometer-size-particle production apparatus for synthesizing nanometer-size particles in a liquid by means of plasma in liquid, and comprises: a container for accommodating the liquid therein; an electromagnetic-wave generation device for generating a high-frequency wave, or a microwave; an electrode conductor whose leading end makes contact with the liquid to supply the high-frequency wave or the microwave to the liquid; a covering portion being disposed into the liquid so as to cover a leading-end upside of the electrode conductor; a metallic chip being composed of a metal making a raw material of nanometer-size particles, and having a leading end that is disposed to face to a leading-end section of the electrode conductor; and a feed device for feeding out the leading end of the metallic chip with respect to the leading-end section of the electrode conductor; the leading end of the electrode conductor having a configuration that is a non-edge configuration; and the electrode conductor, except for the leading end, having an axially-orthogonal cross-sectional area that is larger than an axially-orthogonal cross-sectional area of the metallic chip.
US09440210B2	Gas distribution arrangement for a fluidized bed Embodiments provide a gas distribution arrangement, a device for handling a chemical reaction comprising such a gas distribution arrangement and a method of providing a chemical reaction chamber with a gas. The distribution arrangement comprises a distribution plate for separating a chemical reaction chamber from a gas inlet area and having a first side arranged to face the chemical reaction chamber and a second side arranged to face the gas inlet area and comprising a set of through holes stretching between the first and the second side, where the first side of the plate comprises a first material surrounding the holes and having a first thermal conductivity, and the plate also comprises a second material forming a base structure also surrounding the holes and having a second thermal conductivity.
US09440206B2	Mixing of the content of a flexible container for biopharmaceutical use A receptacle (1) for biopharmaceutical use includes a flexible container (2) having a wall (4), an internal space (5) for receiving a liquid or pasty biopharmaceutical content, mixing elements (20) adjacent to a given portion (21) of the wall (4), elements (22) for rigid and leaktight connection between the mixing elements (20) and the given portion (21), the mixing elements (20) including a sleeve (24), a suction-delivery opening (26), a suction-delivery part (28), a suction-delivery cavity (29), drive elements (23) for driving in an alternating forward/backward axial sliding sequence, elements (32) for immobilizing the sleeve and the given portion (21), including during the axial sliding movement of the suction-delivery part (28).
US09440200B2	Tube diffuser Aspects of the invention are directed to an apparatus comprising a proximal end adapter, a distal end adapter, a support tube, and a flexible diffuser membrane. The support tube is disposed between the proximal end adapter and the distal end adapter, and comprises an outward facing surface that defines a series of ridges thereon. The diffuser membrane, in turn, defines a plurality of perforations, and surrounds at least a respective portion of each of the proximal end adapter, the distal end adapter, and the support tube.
US09440198B2	Zwitterion-functionalized block copolymer membranes and associated block copolymer composition A membrane including a block copolymer is presented. The block copolymer includes at least one block A including structural units having a formula (I), and at least one block B including structural units having a formula (II). A hollow-fiber membrane for hemodialysis or hemofiltration, and associated block copolymer are also presented.
US09440196B2	Composite membrane A method of making a composite membrane comprising the steps of forming a discriminating layer upon a surface of a porous support by sequentially applying immiscible coating solutions upon the support, wherein one coating solution comprises a crosslinking agent and another coating solution comprises a block copolymer, and the block copolymer comprises sacrificial segments and durable segments including reactive pendent groups which react with the crosslinking agent and form a crosslinked matrix comprising micro-domains of the sacrificial segments, and removing at least a portion of the sacrificial segments to yield pores.
US09440195B2	Biomimetic membrane formed from a vesicle-thread conjugate The present invention relates to a method for producing man-made devices which have the properties and functions of biological membranes and membrane proteins, and to the structure of such devices.Briefly, in one aspect of the invention, natural or genetically engineered proteins are incorporated into a polymeric vesicle that is conjugated to a thread to form a vesicle-thread conjugate. The engineered protein is preferably a transmembrane protein embedded in the wall of the polymeric vesicle. The vesicle-thread conjugate is then formed into a membrane or thin fabric having a wide variety of inherent functionality, including the ability to selectively transport and/or filter compounds between fluids. By selecting proteins with specific properties, membranes can be fabricated with a defined functionality including molecular scale addressability via directed electrostatic, electromagnetic, and chemical forces.
US09440192B2	Diesel oxidation catalyst and use thereof in diesel and advanced combustion diesel engine systems An oxidation catalyst composite, methods and systems for the treatment of exhaust gas emissions from an advanced combustion engine, such as the oxidation of unburned hydrocarbons (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO) and the reduction of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from a diesel engine and an advanced combustion diesel engine are disclosed. More particularly, washcoat compositions are disclosed comprising at least two washcoat layers, a first washcoat comprising a palladium component and a first support containing cerium and a second washcoat containing platinum and one or more molecular sieves.
US09440191B2	Acidic gas separation module, and method for manufacturing acidic gas separation module An acidic gas separation module including: a perforated hollow central tube; and a layered body that is wound on the perforated hollow central tube and has, in the following order on a porous support: an acidic gas separation layer containing a water-absorbing polymer, a carrier, and water; and a flow channel material with a network structure having a thread intersection portion and an arithmetical surface roughness for a surface contacting the acidic gas separation layer in the thread intersection portion of 35 μm or less. The acidic gas separation module suppresses generation of flocculated water by maintaining the generation of turbulent flow in the flow channel material, effectively suppresses damage to the surface of the acidic gas separation layer by the flow channel material in the winding-on process during manufacture, and exhibits excellent acidic gas separation efficiency.
US09440188B2	Method for removing contaminants from exhaust gases An exhaust gas stream from a combustion process is conveyed through a gas distributor at an inlet of a wet horizontal spray scrubber where it is partitioned into a plurality of spaced apart gas streams. The gas stream is partitioned in the scrubber without the need for any physical partitions. A preselected number of the partitioned gas streams are mixed with ozone to oxidize the contaminants. The oxidized gas streams are then sprayed with an aqueous medium to capture the oxidized contaminants and remove them from the treated gas streams. The treated gas streams are then recombined with the untreated gas streams. Excess ozone present in the treated gas streams is consumed by oxidation of contaminants in the untreated gas streams before the combined gas stream is released to the atmosphere.
US09440187B2	Device for water collection from atmospheric moisture A device for collecting water from atmospheric moisture comprises water absorbing material, a protection wall and a water container. The protection wall is in a porous form. The water absorbing material is made of the temperature responsive polymer with a phase separation temperature, including Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), Poly(vinylphosphonate) and etc. when its temperature is below phase separation temperature, the temperature responsive polymer is in a swollen hydrated state, forming hydrogen bond with water molecules; so as to absorb water from the air. When its temperature is above said phase separation temperature, the temperature responsive polymer is in a shrunken dehydrated state, forming hydrogen bond with other temperature responsive polymer molecules; so as to expel the water to the water container.
US09440184B2	Apparatus for removing air contaminants The present invention relates to an apparatus for removing air contaminants, which adsorbs dust and harmful substances contained in the air contaminants using an absorbing unit connected to an inlet pipe inserted in a tank.
US09440171B2	Reactors for forming foam materials from high internal phase emulsions, methods of forming foam materials and conductive nanostructures therein An RF inductor such as a Tesla antenna splices nanotube ends together to form a nanostructure in a polymer foam matrix. High Internal Phase Emulsion (HIPE) is gently sheared and stretched in a reactor comprising opposed coaxial counter-rotating impellers, which parallel-align polymer chains and also carbon nanotubes mixed with the oil phase. Stretching and forced convection prevent the auto-acceleration effect. Batch and continuous processes are disclosed. In the batch process, a fractal radial array of coherent vortices in the HIPE is preserved when the HIPE polymerizes, and helical nanostructures around these vortices are spliced by microhammering into longer helices. A disk radial filter produced by the batch process has improved radial flux from edge to center due to its area-preserving radial vascular network. In the continuous process, strips of HIPE are pulled from the periphery of the reactor continuously and post-treated by an RF inductor to produce cured conductive foam.
US09440162B2	System and method for water treatment A system and method for treating waste water includes: receiving waste water at a first pressure and a first temperature, the waste water including dissolved solids and volatile organic compounds; pressurizing, by a pump, the received waste water to a second pressure greater than the first pressure; preheating, by a preheater, the pressurized waste water to produce distilled water and a pressurized/preheated waste water; heating, by a heater, the pressurized/preheated waste water to a second temperature greater than the first temperature to produce pressurized/heated waste water; removing, by a flash evaporator, dissolved solids from the pressurized/heated waste water by evaporation to produce steam and brine water, wherein the brine water has a total dissolved solids content greater than a total dissolved solids content of the received waste water; and crystallizing, by a plasma crystallizer, the brine water to produce a solid mass of waste product and steam.
US09440158B1	System and method for providing secured wireless communication with an action figure or action figure accessory In certain implementations, secured communication with an action figure or action figure accessory may be provided. As an example, a device may be detected within a short wireless communication range of the action figure or action figure accessory. A wireless connection may be established between the action figure or action figure accessory and the device based on the detection. A first key may be obtained. First encrypted information may be received from the device via the wireless connection, and processed based on the first key to determine a second key. An identifier associated with the action figure or action figure accessory may be obtained. Second encrypted information may be generated based on the second key and the identifier, and provided to the device via the wireless connection. The second encrypted information may be used to obtain a virtual counterpart of the action figure or action figure accessory.
US09440145B1	Providing virtual items configured to facilitate temporary resource requirement reduction in an online game A system and method for facilitating resource requirement reduction in an online game are disclosed. Instances of resource requirement reduction items may be offered for purchase in an online store associated with the online game. A given resource requirement reduction item may be configured to reduce a type of game action requirements for game actions requested by a player during a corresponding time period subsequent to the activation of the instance of the resource requirement reduction item by the player. The player may activate a purchased instance of the requirement reduction item in the online game to reduce the game action requirements specified in the instance.
US09440139B1	Method of playing a bonus A method of playing a game bonus triggered by the rank of the player hand. In a first embodiment, a number of bonus hands is displayed, each assigned a bonus value. A number of bonus hands are chosen, the number chosen being dependent on the rank of the player hand. The values of the chosen bonus hands are revealed. Alternatively, a number of bonus hands is displayed, the number being dependent on the rank of the player hand. After the bonus values are revealed, the player is paid an amount based on the bonus values.
US09440136B2	Goal tender leg pad A goaltender leg pad providing profile adjustment, toe attachment and/or toe thickness adjustment. The leg pad can include an adjuster element that configures adjacent pads at a user selected angle or configuration to provide a desired front profile of the leg pad. The leg pad can include an optionally elastic toe attachment strap joined with a foot pad and/or boot, and a redirection element slidably engaging the strap. The strap can secure the foot pad to the user's skate, and generally centrally locate the foot pad over the user's skate when the user transitions to a standing position and/or a crouching position. The leg pad can include a foot pad configured to engage the top of a user's skate. The foot pad can define a cavity within which a secondary pad can be selectively installed or removed to alter the toe thickness of the foot pad and provide desired performance.
US09440131B2	Sports training device A device for training a baseball/softball player to swing a bat with a positioning apparatus affixed to the bat and a guide component tethered to an adjustable cuff on the upper arm of the trailing arm. Interconnection of guide component and positioning apparatus prevents the hands and bat from casting away from torso through midpoint in the swing and Prevents barrel of the bat from preceding knob end of the bat prior to the point of contact with ball. Positioning apparatus disengages from guide component prior to point of contact with ball allowing player to complete the swing.
US09440129B2	Animal shaped golf bag An animal-shaped golf bag is a golf bag that houses, transports, and protects golf clubs and additional items. In addition to maintaining the original functionality of a golf bag, the animal-shaped golf bag additionally provides the aesthetic appearance of an animal. The animal-shaped golf bag features a main animal-shaped body with a club-receiving cavity for storing golf clubs. A rigid base is provided for stability when resting on a surface. A plurality of animal feature-shaped pockets is also present for storing the user's items and providing the aesthetic appearance of an animal. Additionally, the animal-shaped golf bag features a plurality of aesthetic ornaments and a plurality of aesthetic displays that further enhance the aesthetic appearance of an animal provided by the animal-shaped golf bag. The animal-shaped golf bag may be conveniently transported by means of a carry handle and a carry strap.
US09440121B2	Coated golf club head/component A golf club component, such as a golf club head and/or a golf club shaft, can comprise a golf club component substrate having an outer layer of titanium carbide, typically comprising at least forty percent (40%) carbon content. Alternatively, a golf club component can comprise a golf club component substrate, at least a portion of which is enveloped by a first coating layer of, for example, electroplated nickel, a second coating layer of, for example, electroplated chromium or palladium, and a third coating layer of titanium carbide applied by physical vapor deposition. The titanium carbide layer is durable and can provide the golf club component with a desired aesthetic appearance, such as a black color. Additionally, the golf club component can be coated with a fourth coating layer, such as a layer comprising a sealant or clear coat material.
US09440120B2	Ball holder for table tennis tables A ball holder for a table tennis table designed for non-intrusive mounting under a corner of a table tennis table. The ball holder can be manufactured in two parts for ease of sale and construction, with the two halves being easily assembled and secured by the user. The two halves can connect using a set of male and female tabs, and secure using a set of bolts. The full assembly can attach to the table tennis table through the use of four screws. Properly assembled, the ball holder can contain multiple table tennis balls in an easily accessible position, but without obstructing the players' range of motion or creating a hazard.
US09440117B2	Golf ball An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball which shows a high spin rate on approach shots and an excellent stain resistance. The present invention provides a golf ball comprising a golf ball body and a paint film formed on a surface of the golf ball body, wherein a base resin constituting the paint film is a polyurethane obtained by a reaction between a polyol composition and a polyisocyanate composition, the polyol composition contains a urethane polyol including a polyether diol having a number average molecular weight from 800 to 3000 as a constituent component, the paint film has a 10% elastic modulus of 100 kgf/cm2 or less, and the 10% elastic modulus (kgf/cm2) (Y) of the paint film and a molar ratio (NCO/OH) (X) of NCO of the polyisocyanate composition to OH of the polyol composition satisfy a following equation (1). Y≦200×X−75 (1)
US09440113B2	Cardio-based exercise systems with visual feedback on exercise programs In general, a computing device disposed in a cardio exercise machine receives data related to a fitness level of a user. The computing device selects a workout program based at least in part on the data. The operations of the cardio exercise machine are controlled based at least in part on the workout program. The computing device generates visual feedback based on at least one of the user's operation of the cardio exercise machine and the selected workout program measured against performance criteria.
US09440107B2	Exercise device with treadles An exercise device employing side-by-side pivotally supported moving surfaces. In one particular example, an exercise device employs a first belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller and an adjacent second belt deployed about a front roller and a rear roller. The rear of the belts in the area of the rear rollers are pivotally secured and the front of the belts in the area of the front roller are adapted to reciprocate in an up and down motion during use. In some implementations, the moving surfaces include an interconnection structure such that a generally downward movement of one surface is coordinated with a generally upward movement of the other surface. In other implementations, the moving surfaces are operably associated with one or more resistance elements that effect the amount of force required to pivot or actuate the moving surfaces.
US09440106B2	Apparatus for positioning a component of an exercise device An exercise device including at least one positionable component configured to be positioned by a user. The exercise device includes a frame to which a collar is mounted. The positionable component includes a member that is slidably received within the collar and may be positioned by sliding the member to a selected position. A locking assembly is coupled to the collar and is operable to lock the member in a selected position within the collar, to release the member from the locked position, and when released, to allow the member to slide within the collar. The locking assembly includes a cam pivotably mounted to the collar and a cam follower assembly selectively biased by the cam against a portion of the member disposed inside the collar. The locking assembly also includes a pair of engagement members disposed inside the collar opposite the cam against which the cam biases the member.
US09440100B2	Fire and/or smoke blocking device A fire door assembly is provided for covering a structure opening in a sidewall of a structure. The fire door assembly has a roller assembly to be mounted to a portion of the structure defining a portion of the structure opening and a curtain panel disposed on the roller assembly. The curtain panel is operable between a retracted position where the curtain panel is wound onto the roller assembly and an extended position where the curtain panel is unwound from the roller assembly to cover the structure opening. The curtain panel includes first and second panel portions with mutually opposing edge portions in a closed position. A fastener is provided to releasably attach the first and second panel portions to each other. The first and second panel portions are separable from each other in response to an egress force exerted thereon to form an egress through the curtain panel. Upon relaxation or removal of the egress force, the panel portions return to the closed position to close the egress.
US09440096B2	Method and system for treating stretch marks Methods and systems for treating stretch marks through deep tissue tightening with ultrasound are provided. An exemplary method and system comprise a therapeutic ultrasound system configured for providing ultrasound treatment to a shallow tissue region, such as a region comprising an epidermis, a dermis and a deep dermis. In accordance with various exemplary embodiments, a therapeutic ultrasound system can be configured to achieve depth from 0 mm to 1 cm with a conformal selective deposition of ultrasound energy without damaging an intervening tissue in the range of frequencies from 2 to 50 MHz. In addition, a therapeutic ultrasound can also be configured in combination with ultrasound imaging or imaging/monitoring capabilities, either separately configured with imaging, therapy and monitoring systems or any level of integration thereof.
US09440094B2	Treatment couch for small isocentric rotations A treatment system for a patient includes a treatment couch to position the patient. The treatment couch includes a couch top and one or more stages to pitch the couch top about a lateral axis and/or roll the couch top about a longitudinal axis, translate the couch top along lateral directions and/or longitudinal directions, rotate the couch top about a vertical axis, and translate the couch top along vertical directions.
US09440088B2	Implanted lead analysis system and method The technology disclosed herein relates to a method for lead analysis for an implanted medical device. A summary data record is retrieved associated with one or more episodes from an implanted medical device through a communication module. Episode selection criteria are applied to the summary data record by a processing module. One or more episode data records are retrieved from the implanted medical device for one or more episodes for which the episode selection criteria was satisfied. Noise detection criteria are applied to the episode data record. A notification module is configured to generate an alert if the noise detection criteria are satisfied.
US09440086B2	Optimized flash memory device for miniaturized devices An implantable medical device have an associated memory device is disclosed. The implantable medical device utilizes techniques for optimizing one or more embedded operations of the memory device, such operations including programming, reading or erasing data. The techniques for optimizing the embedded operations include controlling the operations as a function of an energy source of the implantable medical device.
US09440085B2	System and method for alerting to unusual/atypical programming changes of a medical device An apparatus comprises a communication circuit configured to communicate information with an ambulatory medical device, a user interface configured to receive a programmable parameter for the ambulatory medical device from a user, a memory to store a distribution of values for the programmable parameter, wherein the distribution is representative of values of the parameter programmed for a patient population, and a processor circuit configured to compare a received value of the programmable parameter to a distribution of programmed values for the programmable parameter and present results of the comparison to the user via a display of the user interface.
US09440082B2	Microfabricated neurostimulation device Described herein are microelectrode array devices, and methods of fabrication and use of the same, to provide highly localized and efficient electrical stimulation of a neurological target. The device includes multiple microelectrode elements arranged along an elongated probe shaft. The microelectrode elements are dimensioned and shaped so as to target individual neurons, groups of neurons, and neural tissue as may be located in an animal nervous system, such as deep within a human brain. Beneficially, the neurological probe can be used to facilitate location of the neurological target and remain implanted for long-term monitoring and/or stimulation.
US09440081B2	Methods for promoting intrinsic activation in single chamber implantable cardiac pacing systems Cardiac pacing methods for an implantable single chamber pacing system, establish an offset rate for pacing at a predetermined decrement from either a baseline rate (i.e. dictated by a rate response sensor), or an intrinsic rate. Pacing maintains the offset rate until x of y successive events are paced events, at which time the offset rate is switched to the baseline rate for pacing over a predetermined period of time. Following the period, if an intrinsic event is not immediately detected, within the interval of the offset rate, the rate is switched back to baseline for pacing over an increased period of time. Some methods establish a preference rate, between the offset and baseline rates, wherein an additional criterion, for switching from the offset rate to the baseline rate, is established with respect to the preference rate.
US09440080B2	Protein activity modification A method of modifying tissue behavior, comprising: determining a desired modification of tissue behavior for at least one of treatment of a disease, short or long term modification of tissue behavior, assessing tissue state and assessing tissue response to stimulation; selecting an electric field having an expected effect of modifying protein activity of at least one protein as an immediate response of a tissue to the field, said expected effect correlated with said desired modification; and applying said field to said tissue.
US09440075B2	Swallowing assist device A swallowing assist device for assisting swallowing includes a respiration detection part, an application unit, and a control part. The respiration detection part detects respiration. The application unit is attached to a target section to apply a stimulus for facilitation of swallowing. The control part controls the application unit. The control part controls the application unit to start application of the stimulus to the target section during an expiration period detected according to a detection signal from the respiration detection part, and terminate the application of the stimulus to the target section during the expiration period.
US09440073B2	Cochlear implant stimulation Presented herein are trans-modiolar stimulation techniques in which stimulation current is sourced (delivered) by at least one intra-cochlear stimulating contact and is sunk at a group of other intra-cochlear stimulating contacts. The group of other intra-cochlear stimulating contacts is positioned (located) across a section of the recipient's modiolus from the intra-cochlear stimulating contact that sources the stimulation. As such, stimulation current generally passes through the modiolus to stimulate spiral ganglion cells and evoke a hearing percept.
US09440072B2	Methods and systems for fitting an electro-acoustic stimulation system to a patient An exemplary system includes 1) a stimulation management facility configured to direct an electro-acoustic stimulation (“EAS”) system to concurrently apply acoustic stimulation to a patient by way of a loudspeaker and electrical stimulation to the patient by way of an electrode located within a cochlea of the patient during a fitting session, and 2) a fitting facility communicatively coupled to the stimulation management facility and configured to detect, during the fitting session, an interaction between the acoustic stimulation and the electrical stimulation, and set, during the fitting session, one or more control parameters governing an operation of the EAS system based on the detected interaction. Corresponding systems and methods are also disclosed.
US09440068B2	Treating bacteria with electric fields Cells that are in the process division are vulnerable to damage by AC electric fields that have specific frequency and field strength characteristics. The selective destruction of rapidly dividing cells can therefore be accomplished by imposing an AC electric field in a target region for extended periods of time at particular frequencies with particular filed strengths. Some of the cells that divide while the field is applied will be damaged, but the cells that do not divide will not be harmed. This selectively damages rapidly dividing cells like bacteria, but does not harm normal cells that are not dividing. Improved results can be obtained when the field is sequentially imposed in different directions.
US09440064B2	Systems, methods and devices for a skull/brain interface Methods, devices, and systems induce neuromodulation by focusing a source of stimulation through a skull/brain interface in the form of an aperture formed in the skull, a naturally occurring fenestration in the skull, or a transcranial channel. Methods, devices, and systems identify where to locate skull/brain interfaces, accessories that can be used with the interfaces, and features for controlling stimulation delivered through the interfaces. Multiple indications for the skull/brain interfaces include diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and conditions such as epilepsy, movement disorders, depression, Alzheimer's disease, autism, coma, and pain.
US09440059B2	Adjustable diameter hemostatic valve A hemostatic valve device for use in inserting an interventional device into a body lumen of a patient. The valve device includes a housing that defines a cavity between first and second end openings. A valve structure is disposed within the cavity, and defines a variable diameter channel for receiving the interventional device. An annular chamber is generally formed between the valve structure and the housing inner surface, and can be filled with fluid. The housing is movable between first and second positions so that the volume of the cavity and the diameter of the channel vary to a degree for the valve structure to form a seal along the interventional device inserted within the channel. The valve structure may be configured to seal without substantial twisting.
US09440058B2	Device for enabling repeated access to a vessel An implantable prosthesis with at least one fenestration in a side wall of that prosthesis is disclosed. The fenestration provides an access port through which a medical device (such as a needle or a cannula) can be directed to enable access to the lumen of the blood vessel which the prosthesis is supporting.
US09440050B2	Fluid infuser A fluid infuser includes an introduction needle having a projection on a peripheral surface, and an infusion tube configured to cover the introduction needle. The projection of the introduction needle is installed at a position where the introduction needle comes into contact with the infusion tube, and includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is arranged at a picking end side of the introduction needle with respect to the second surface, and an angle of inclination of the first surface is larger than an angle of inclination of the second surface. The fluid infuser is configured to guide an infusion tube to an object of insertion adequately, and allow the introduction needle to be pulled out easily from the infusion tube.
US09440043B2	Catheter having a tapered structure and balloon formed above a lower drainage hole A indwelling or Foley catheter is provided that has a tapered structure. In an aspect, the catheter includes an elongated cylindrical body having a proximal end configured to lie inside the bladder when inserted into the urinary tract and a distal end configured to extend outside the urinary tract, wherein an outer diameter of the proximal end is larger than an outer diameter of the distal end.
US09440038B2	Determining suitable ventilator settings for patients with alveolar hypoventilation during sleep A method and apparatus for determining suitable settings for a servo-ventilator to be used during a treatment period. Respiratory characteristics of a patient are measured during a learning period preceding the treatment period. With these measured characteristics, a target ventilation setting may be calculated by alternative methods. The calculated setting may then be used for enforcing a minimum ventilation during the treatment period where ventilatory support is provided with a servo-controlled ventilator.
US09440037B2	Acclimatization therapy for first time users Systems, methods, and/or apparatuses for acclimatizing a user to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy are provided. Generally, a sub-therapeutic treatment pressure is provided initially. It may be ramped up to a full treatment pressure over the course of one or more therapy sessions. The pressure level may be ramped up based on, for example, sleep state, sleep phase, patient compliance with types of treatment (e.g. bilevel vs. CPAP, etc.), clinician input (either at the site, remotely, via pre-programmed smartcards, etc.), etc. Such techniques may be used alone or in combination.
US09440036B2	Method and systems for the delivery of oxygen enriched gas Described herein are various embodiments of an oxygen concentrator system and method of delivering oxygen enriched gas to a user. In some embodiments, oxygen concentrator system includes one or more components that improve the efficiency of oxygen enriched gas delivery during operation of the oxygen concentrator system.
US09440010B2	Drape having microstrain inducing projections for treating a wound site Systems and apparatuses for administering reduced pressure treatment to a tissue site include a reduced pressure source, a drape having a plurality of projections for contacting the tissue site, and an adhesive connected to at least a portion of the drape for sealing the drape to a portion of a patient's intact epidermis.
US09440005B2	Substrate for feeding cells and/or tissues, cell/tissue-feeder and method for the production of the same, method for the regeneration of tissues, and method for the production of porous bodies A substrate for feeding cells and/or tissues which is composed of a porous body having a thin film surface and a porous surface and which can be used in the regenerative medical techniques. A cell/tissue feeder is produced by cultivating tissues on the porous surface of the porous body. Cells are seeded on the porous surface of the body, followed by the cultivation of the cells to thus form and/or regenerate tissues. An aqueous solution of silk proteins, to which a water-soluble organic solvent is added, is introduced into a mold whose bottom or top surface is surface-roughened, followed by freezing the aqueous solution and then thawing the frozen aqueous solution to form a porous body having a thin film surface and a porous surface.
US09440002B2	Materials with modified surfaces and methods of manufacturing Various embodiments of surface-modified devices, components, and associated methods of manufacturing are described herein. In one embodiment, an implantable device suitable for being implanted in a patient includes an implantable material having a utile shape and a surface and a modification material deposited on at least a portion of the surface of the implantable material. The modification material has a release rate in an implantation environment in the patient. The modification material at the release rate is effective as bactericidal without being cytotoxic to the patient.
US09439982B2	Fluorescent cyanine-polyamine derivatives as a diagnostic probe The invention relates to fluorescent derivatives of cyanines conjugated with a polyamine group, having formula (I), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The invention also relates to the method for preparing said derivatives, diagnostic compositions containing same and the use thereof as a diagnostic probe for the detection of cancer tumors, in particular in vivo.
US09439975B2	Small efficient cell penetrating peptides derived from the scorpion toxin maurocalcine The invention relates to small cell penetrating peptides (CPP) derived from the scorpion toxin maurocalcine and to their use as vectors for the intracellular delivery of various drugs and agents.
US09439974B2	Conjugated biological molecules and their preparation Novel biologically active compounds of the general formula (I) in which one of X and X′ represents a polymer, and the other represents a hydrogen atom; each Q independently represents a linking group; W represents an electron-withdrawing moiety or a moiety preparable by reduction of an electron-withdrawing moiety; or, if X′ represents a polymer, X-Q-W— together may represent an electron withdrawing group; and in addition, if X represents a polymer, X′ and electron withdrawing group W together with the interjacent atoms may form a ring; each of Z1 and Z2 independently represents a group derived from a biological molecule, each of which is linked to A and B via an amine group; or Z1 and Z2 together represent a single group derived from a biological molecule which is linked to A and B via two amine groups; A is a C1-5 alkylene or alkenylene chain; and B is a bond or a C1-4 alkylene or alkenylene chain; are formed by conjugating a suitable polymer to a suitable biologically active molecule via amine groups in said molecule, preferably via a disulphide bridge.
US09439970B2	Solid dispersions of insoluble drug and preparation method thereof The present invention relates to a solid dispersion characterized in that it comprises carbamic acid 3-(4-benzyloxy-phenyl)-isoxazol-5-ylmethyl ester as an active ingredient and a water-soluble polymer having a glass transition temperature lower than the melting point of the active ingredient as a carrier, and it is prepared via melt extrusion. The solid dispersion of the present invention remarkably increases the solubility and dissolution rate of the active ingredient which is an insoluble drug to efficiently improve the bioavailability when it is orally administered.
US09439961B2	Pharmaceutical composition for treating ischemic events Methods and pharmaceutical compositions for treating severe ischemic events including cerebral infarction, cardiac infarction, or pulmonary embolism, comprising a thrombolytic intervention including thrombolytic agents and an inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-mediated signal transduction are disclosed.
US09439959B2	Chimeric influenza virus-like particles Chimeric Influenza virus-like particles including gag polypeptides are described. Virus-like particles are generated with a gag polypeptide, a neuraminidase polypeptide and optionally a hemagglutinin polypeptide. Preferred methods of generation include expression in insect cells.
US09439953B2	Compositions comprising alkaline sphingomyelinases for use as a dietetic preparation, food supplement or pharmaceutical product and methods for using them The invention relates to a composition which, depending on the user, may be taken as a nutritional, dietetic or strictly therapeutic preparation, comprising as its active substance alkaline sphingomyelinase which is capable of preventing or treating various pathological conditions including cancerous processes, inflammatory processes of the intestine, hypercholesterolaemia and infections with Helicobacter pylori.
US09439947B2	Therapy for radiation-induced lung injury Methods are disclosed for therapy of radiation-induced lung injury and other lung diseases using R-spondin1.
US09439945B2	Isolated nucleotide sequences encoding GDF traps In certain aspects, the present invention provides compositions and methods for increasing red blood cell and/or hemoglobin levels in vertebrates, including rodents and primates, and particularly in humans.
US09439941B2	Nano cancer barrier device (NCBD) to immobilize and inhibit the division of metastic cancer stem cells The present invention provides methods, compositions, and kits wherein nanomaterials are used for inhibiting cancer stem cell division, colony formation, spheroid formation and self-renewal. The present invention also provides methods, compositions, and kits wherein nanomaterials are used for treating cancer, coating tumors, and inhibiting metastasis. The present invention also provides methods, compositions, and kits wherein nanomaterials are used for inducing cells to go into stasis. The present invention further provides methods for isolating tumors, inhibiting bleeding, and marking margins of tumors and organs during surgery with a nanomaterial.
US09439940B2	Topical transdermal method for delivering nutrients through the skin for expeditied wound healing and skin rejuvenation The present invention relates to liquid application for skin rejuvenation created from specific amino acids, lipids, nucleic acids and vitamins. This collection of molecules delivers precisely the factors necessary to a specific site requiring healing; a direct intervention system to most expeditiously remodel skin with building blocks. This delivery is a transdermal topical delivery and healing is via specific molecules that engender a false autocoid reaction rapidly followed by an incremental healing-anti-inflammatory response augmented by very specific GRAS ingredients in the invention and also recruited from the body to this needy site. Energy is brought to site by transdermally delivered protons and enhanced by the local vascular flow initiated by transdermal molecules.This delivery system bypasses digestion and dilution. Key is a lipophilic carrier with nuclear and mitochondrial ligands that rapidly penetrate and permeate all membranes and truncates the inflammatory site quickly manifesting curation. Other delivered molecules expedite healing at every level.
US09439933B2	Skin properties improving agent for oral administration Disclosed is a skin property-improving agent which exerts excellent effects by oral administration. The skin property-improving agent for oral administration contains, as an active ingredient, a bacterium belonging to the genus Streptococcus and a bacterium belonging to the genus Bifidobacterium, or fermented milk containing the two bacteria.
US09439931B2	Administering umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells to treat nerve injury A use of a composition comprising umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells for inducing differentiation and proliferation of neural precursor cells or neural stem cells to neural cells is provided, the composition being effective for the treatment of nerve injury diseases.
US09439928B2	Method for combined conditioning and chemoselection in a single cycle A method of radiation-free hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation comprises administering to a mammalian subject one or two doses of 2 to 10 mg/kg body weight of a purine base analog, such as 6TG as a pre-conditioning step. The method further comprises engrafting into the subject hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT)-deficient donor HSCs within 48 to 72 hours of the pre-conditioning step; and administering to the subject about 1 to 5 mg/kg of the purine base analog every two to four days for two to eight weeks following the engrafting step. The method is performed in the absence of pre-conditioning via radiation. The subject is therefore not treated with myeloablative radiation in preparation for transplantation, and thus the subject is free of myeloablative radiation-induced toxicity.
US09439913B1	Fat-soluble vitamin formulations The present disclosure generally pertains to formulations containing two or more fat-soluble vitamins, lemon oil, and zinc. Also disclosed are kits containing such formulations and methods for administering such formulations to treat malabsorption in subjects diagnosed with CF, Crohn's Disease, Colitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Celiac Disease, and other like conditions.
US09439912B2	Androgen receptor down-regulating agents and uses thereof The present disclosure provides the design and synthesis of novel steroidal compounds that cause down-regulation of the androgen receptor (AR), both full length and splice variant. The compounds are potential agents for the treatment of all forms of prostate cancer and other diseases that depend on functional AR.
US09439910B2	Fe(III)-pyrazine complex compounds for treatment and prophylaxis of iron-deficiency phenomena and iron-deficiency anaemia The invention relates to iron(III) complex compounds and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them for the use as medicaments, in particular for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of iron deficiency symptoms and iron deficiency anemias.
US09439908B2	Cross-linking composition delivered by iontophoresis, useful for the treatment of keratoconus An improved formulation of an ophthalmic composition contains riboflavin, as cross-linking agent of corneal collagen, administered by corneal iontophoresis, able to guarantee an increased capacity of permeation of riboflavin of the corneal stroma and therefore greater therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of keratoconus.
US09439903B2	Process for the preparation of amorphous imatinib mesylate The field of the invention relates to a process for the preparation of amorphous imatinib mesylate. In particular, the invention relates to a process for the preparation of stable amorphous imatinib mesylate. More particularly, the invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions that includes the stable amorphous imatinib messylate together along with its excipients.
US09439901B2	Dioxa-bicyclo[3.2.1]octane-2,3,4-triol derivatives Compounds of Formula (A) and (B) are described herein and the uses thereof for the treatment of diseases, conditions and/or disorders mediated by sodium-glucose transporter inhibitors (in particular, SGLT2 inhibitors).
US09439897B2	Use of psoralen derivatives and combination therapy for treatment of cell proliferation disorders Methods for the treatment of a cell proliferation disease or disorder in a subject, involving applying a psoralen derivative lacking a DNA cross-linking motif to cancer cells, applying a psoralen or a derivative thereof and lapatinib, or applying a psoralen or derivative thereof and neratinib, to a subject and further applying initiation radiation energy form an energy source.
US09439880B2	Method for treating inflammation and pain The present invention is directed to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and ω-(methylsulfonyl)alkylamine or ω-(methylsulfonyl)alkylamide. The present invention is also directed to a method for treating inflammation, inflammatory-related disorders, or pain, by administering ω-(methylsulfonyl)alkylamine or ω-(methylsulfonyl)alkylamide, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof to a subject in need thereof.
US09439877B2	Small molecule inhibitors of Dusp6 and uses therefor Compounds that stimulate fibroblast growth factor production, and thus cell growth are provided. Also provided are compositions comprising the compounds and methods of using the compounds. The compounds can be used to treat wounds, to expand cell populations, such as hematopoietic cells, or to grow tissue in vitro, among other uses.
US09439874B2	Food composition for nourishing, maintaining and cultivating a variety of stem cells and a method for manufacturing the same A food composition for nourishing, maintaining and cultivating a variety of stem cells, the food composition includes grape skin or polygonum cuspidatum root extract; pseudo-ginseng extract; cooked polygonum multiflorum thunb extract; salvia miltiorrhiza bunge extract; blueberry extract; bitter melon extract; soybean extract; ginseng extract; rhodiola extract; yam extract; licorice extract; pueraria extract; brown algae extract; green algae extract; chuanxiong extracts, Green tea extract; apple extract; leek seed extract; wolfberry extract; pot marigold extract; ganoderma lucidum extract; caterpillar fungus extract; agaricus blazei murill extract; cistanche deserticola extract; mushroom extract; beer yeast; flaxseed oil powder; and vitamin.
US09439872B2	Oral film-form base and preparation The present invention aims to provide an oral film-form base and an oral film-form preparation which have a rapid dissolution profile in the mouth and sufficient film strength, give a good tactile impression when handled with fingers and favorable texture and taste in the mouth, and are administrable to those who have limitation in carbohydrate intake. The present invention relates to an oral film-form base including an edible polymer soluble in water and an organic solvent having a solubility parameter of 9.7 or higher, and particles of at least one compound selected from the group consisting of amino acid, dipeptide, and nucleotide, the particles of at least one compound selected from the group consisting of amino acid, dipeptide, and nucleotide being dispersed in the state of particles in the oral film-form base.
US09439868B2	Supramolecular capsules Provided is a capsule having a shell of material that is a supramolecular cross-linked network. The network is formed from a host-guest complexation of cucurbituril (the host) and one or more building blocks comprising suitable guest functionality. The complex non-covalently crosslinks the building block and/or non-covalently links the building block to another building block thereby forming the supramolecular cross-linked network. The capsules are obtained or obtainable by the complexation of a composition comprising cucurbituril and one or more building blocks having suitable cucurbituril guest functionality thereby to form a supramolecular cross-linked network.
US09439854B2	Liquid pharmaceutical formulations of palonosetron The present invention relates to shelf-stable liquid formulations of palonosetron for reducing chemotherapy and radiotherapy induced emesis with palonosetron. The formulations are particularly useful in the preparation of intravenous and oral liquid medicaments.
US09439846B2	Oral care composition The present invention relates to an oral care composition comprising catechins. We have found that the catechins tend to darken the color of the chalk based toothpaste due to its oxidation which happens at the high pH of the toothpaste. Once the catechins are oxidized and darken the color of the toothpaste it is no longer available as such for providing anti-inflammatory benefits. It is an object of the invention to provide a chalk based toothpaste formulation which does not turn substantially dark due to oxidation of catechins. The present inventors while working with oral care compositions comprising catechins preferably green tea catechins for providing anti-inflammatory benefits, surprisingly found that some selected zinc salts when added in particular quantities do not result in darkening the color of the toothpaste, and also, when stored, are able to deliver green tea catechins.
US09439840B2	Silicone composite particle and a method for preparing the same A silicone composite particle composed of a silicone rubber particle and a polyorganosilsesquioxane, wherein the silicone rubber particle has plural dents on its surface and the polyorganosilsesquioxane adheres to the surface of the silicone rubber particle. Also, a method for preparing the silicone composite particle, which includes steps of subjecting organotrialkoxysilane to a hydrolysis and subsequent condensation in the presence of water, an alkaline substance and a silicone rubber particle containing therein a liquid to thereby have a resultant polyorganosilsesquioxane adhered to the surface of the silicone rubber particle, and subsequently removing the liquid.
US09439830B2	Transverse-mode-resonant stimulation device Various embodiments described herein provide a mechanism for transducing transverse vibrational energy into an elastic body of a sexual stimulation device by directly driving the transverse modes of vibration of the elastic body. Additionally, by using an actuator that transduces a force that is proportional to the input current or voltage, the vibration may be driven with any arbitrary waveform.
US09439828B2	Foot compression system Methods and systems for dynamic compression of venous tissue enable improved blood movement in the extremities. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a pressure pad provides a compressive force to the venous plexus region of the foot. The pressure pad is successively withdrawn and re-pressed against the foot. Improved blood circulation may reduce the occurrence of undesirable complications such as deep vein thrombosis, ulcers, and the like.
US09439827B2	Tissue compression device with pressure indicator Tissue compression devices having pressure indicators and methods of using the same. The tissue compression devices provide feedback to a user with respect to the pressure being applied to selected tissue at a selected location such as a radial artery to assist the user in applying the desired amount of pressure to the tissue (such as the pressure needed to achieve hemostasis at an access site). The pressure indication may be provided by a ring indicator that moves between two configurations (e.g., a concave configuration and a convex configuration), a bellow chamber in a housing, a bladder located below a bladder window, etc.
US09439821B2	Mattress overlay system with positionally adjustable, lateral ramp-wedge bolster structure A bolster structure system possesses anti-decubitus ulcer characteristics, and may cooperate with a mattress overlay also having anti-decubitus ulcer capabilities as part of a mattress overlay system, in which multiple elongate, positionally adjustable, relatively moveable bolsters are configured for selective placement in conditions of lateral under-engagement with the sides of an overlay to create inclined, lateral side elevations of these sides at locations along the length of the overlay. The bolster structure and overlay may each include a dynamic-response core expanse formed of an open-cell, compressible viscoelastic foam coated with an elastomeric, moisture- and gas-flow-managing, differential-thickness coating structure load-transmissively bonded to the entirety of the outside of said core expanse to function as a dynamically-responsive unit therewith.
US09439819B2	Low profile medical kit In a first-aid system including an ultra compact first-aid pouch configured to fit behind the ballistic plates of a protective vest, the first-aid kit is protected from shrapnel and tearing, is easily locatable and removable and does not effect the user's freedom of movement. When the first-aid pouch is removed from its protected location, it presents the first-aid equipment in a logical and easily viewable manner.
US09439813B2	Functional sheet A functional sheet is described, in which a modifier is uniformly and exactly scattered and deposited such that sites where the modifier is deposited and sites where no modifier is deposited are clearly discriminated. The functional sheet is obtained by masking a surface of a sheet containing at least one fibrous layer on the surface by a planar object having a plurality of openings, applying a solution of a modifier from a side of the planar object, and allowing the modifier to deposit onto a whole surface of the sheet exposed to the openings of the planar object, and a functional sheet in which sites where the modifier is deposited form projections and sites where no modifier is deposited form plains in a surface fibrous layer of the functional sheet.
US09439800B2	Orthopedic device, use of orthopedic device and method for producing same An orthopedic device includes an elongate and rigid or semirigid strut assembly, an arcuate cuff pivotally secured to the strut assembly, and a strap securing to the cuff and forming an adjustable circumferential configuration therewith. A tensioning device may be mounted on the cuff and coupled to the strap in order to incrementally adjust the tensioning device among a plurality of preselected levels such that a first end of the strap secures to the tensioning device and a second end of the strap couples to the cuff. A soft-good assembly connects to the strut assembly and has a flexible stay embedded within with a plurality of layers. The soft-good assembly is adapted to form an adjustable circumferential loop with the stay only located within a segment short of the circumference of the loop.
US09439799B2	Joint support device A joint support device is provided. The joint support device may include a first tubular layer and a second tubular layer both made of crisscrossing fibers. The crisscrossing fibers of the first tubular layer may be oriented in a spiral in a first direction and the crisscrossing fibers of the second tubular layer may be oriented in a spiral in an opposite direction of the first direction. The first and second tubular layers may be layered together and may be attached to an existing elastic knee brace.
US09439796B2	Prosthesis delivery device A prosthesis delivery device comprises a proximal end and a distal end, a prosthesis retention section at the proximal end, and a prosthesis retained on the prosthesis retention section. The prosthesis has a proximal end releasably attached at the prosthesis retention section and a distal end releasably attached at the prosthesis retention section. A sheath is slidably disposed over the prosthesis. A delivery handle near the distal end the delivery device comprises a rotatable inner cannula having a cannula lumen and cannula handle. The cannula handle is rotatable with the inner cannula. Further, a positioner handle is releasably engaged with the cannula handle. Rotation of the inner cannula releases the proximal end of the prosthesis from the delivery device and withdrawal of the sheath from over the prosthesis releases the distal end of the prosthesis from the delivery device.
US09439787B2	Method of coating a stent A method of coating a stent is provided that minimizes damage to the coating. The stent is self-expanding and made of a superelastic material. The stent is initially cooled so that at least part of the structure of the stent transforms to a martensitic phase. The stent is then compressed, coated and loaded while the structure of the stent remains at least partially martensitic. After the stent is loaded into a tubular restraint, the loaded stent is allowed to warm to room temperature.
US09439782B2	Spinal fusion cage system with inserter The present disclosure relates to a spinal fusion impactor tool that includes an attachment means for securing an implant device to the distal end of the tool, a means for adjusting the angle of the distal head relative to the handle to better position the implant for introduction into the implant site, means for remotely releasing the implant device at the distal end and a clamp device on the shaft of the tool to secure tabs, attachments and other devices. The impactor tool is preferably used in conjunction with implantation of an intervertebral fusion cage that is equipped with shims having tabs or other removing means, but may also be used to introduce, for example, an implant, graft, fusion device, wedge or distractor device into any joint space or bony region in preparation for implantation.
US09439780B2	Acetabular cup inserter handle Disclosed is an acetabular positioning and insertion instrument. Additionally, a method of positioning an acetabular prosthesis with an insertion instrument is disclosed. The positioning instrument can include engaging members to contact an acetabular prosthesis and holding it relative to a portion of the instrument for both rotational and positioning of the prosthesis.
US09439778B2	Device for inserting an intervertebral implant into a body and system including an intervertebral implant and a device for inserting same A device for inserting an intervertebral implant into a body includes a flexible end portion having a free end, a thickened portion including an outward protrusion on the flexible end portion at or adjacent the free end, and a stop including an outward protrusion on the flexible end portion positioned at a distance from the free end and spaced apart from the thickened portion, wherein a portion of the flexible end portion between the thickened portion and the stop has outer walls separated by a distance that is less than distances separating outer walls of the thickened end portion and the stop, respectively, and wherein the flexible end portion can assume a first state wherein the outer walls of the portion of the flexible end portion between the thickened portion and the stop are separated by a first distance.
US09439771B2	Laterally expandable spinal prosthesis An expandable spinal prosthesis is disclosed, including a first surface having a first plurality of tissue anchors; a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a second plurality of tissue anchors; a first wall between the first and second surfaces, and a second wall between the first and second surfaces, the second wall located opposite the first wall and being movable with respect to the first wall. A surgical instrument is also provided, including an elongated shaft defining a proximal end and a distal end; a first prosthesis engagement element accessible from the proximal end and extending from the distal end; and a second prosthesis engagement element accessible from the proximal end and extending from the distal end, the second prosthesis engagement element including a plurality of gear teeth.
US09439770B2	Implant for stabilizing vertebrae or bones An implant for use in stabilizing vertebral bodies or bones includes a first end and a second end, a tubular section between the first end and the second end having a longitudinal axis. The tubular section is flexible in such a way that it is expandable in a radial direction when a force acts in an axial direction which reduces the distance between the first end and the second end.
US09439764B2	Membrane-type artificial scaffold and method for fabricating same Provided herein are a membrane-type artificial scaffold for guided bone regeneration (GBR) and a method for fabricating the same. The membrane-type artificial scaffold according to the present invention comprises: a first layer made of at least one fiber layer arranged in parallel with each other with a first spacing therebetween such that the fiber layer contacts a bone tissue in vivo; and a second layer stacked on the first layer and made of at least one fiber layer arranged parallel to each other with a second spacing therebetween such that the fiber layer contacts a soft tissue in vivo. The first spacing is larger than the second spacing.
US09439759B2	Endoprosthesis for implantation in the heart of a patient The present invention relates to a stent for the positioning and anchoring of a valvular prosthesis in an implantation site in the heart of a patient. Specifically, the present invention relates to an expandable stent for an endoprosthesis used in the treatment of a narrowing of a cardiac valve and/or a cardiac valve insufficiency. So as to ensure that no longitudinal displacement of a valvular prosthesis fastened to a stent will occur relative the stent in the implanted state of the stent, even given the peristaltic motion of the heart, the stent according to the invention comprises at least one fastening portion via which the valvular prosthesis is connectable to the stent. The stent further comprises positioning arches and retaining arches, whereby at least one positioning arch is connected to at least one retaining arch.
US09439744B2	Anal incontinence disease treatment with controlled wireless energy supply A anal incontinence disease treatment apparatus and method include and use an operable restriction device implanted in a patient and engaging the colon or engaging the rectum to form a restricted fecal passageway in the colon or the rectum. A source of energy external to the patient's body and a control device for releasing wireless energy from the source of energy from outside the patient's body are provided. The released wireless energy is used in connection with the operation of the restriction device, to enlarge or contract the restricted fecal passageway.
US09439738B2	Porous implant device with improved core An implant device has an exterior portion forming an exterior surface of the implant. The exterior portion is made of a porous material defining passages through the exterior portion. An inner portion has an outer surface with a treated area that is accessible from the exterior surface through the passages. The treated area has a treatment for direct attachment to bone or soft tissue.
US09439733B2	Surgical robot system A surgical robot system includes a slave device provided with a surgical instrument and a master device to control motion of the surgical instrument. The master device includes a master manipulation module having a manipulation tool, to which a pose recognizer is attached, and a master control module that estimates a pose of the manipulation tool using pose information acquired via the pose recognizer, generates a surgical instrument pose control signal corresponding to the estimated pose of the manipulation tool, and transmits the control signal to the slave device.
US09439724B2	Resonating radio frequency ablation device The invention relates to methods, systems, and devices for ablating a tumor with heat delivered from a non-ferrous metallic rod having a length adapted to support resonating radio frequency waves along the longitudinal axis of the rod. The tumor ablation may be carried out in an MRI where the radio frequency transmitter of the MRI wirelessly delivers the energy to heat the metallic rod.
US09439723B2	Variable stiffness catheter A device and method for inserting a variable stiffness catheter into a subject with a catheter body being in relatively stiff state at a first temperature and a more flexible state at a second temperature. A temperature sensitive polymer is incorporated into the catheter that varies in stiffness depending on the temperature. The stiffness of the catheter is regulated by being in thermal contact with a circulating fluid within the catheter, or by being connected to resistive members in thermal contact with temperature sensitive alloys or polymers. The variable stiffness catheter can therefore be guided through the vasculature while in a relatively flexible state, but be changed into a relative stiff state during ablation procedures.
US09439722B2	Ablation targeting nerves in or near the inferior vena cava and/or abdominal aorta for treatment of hypertension A method for the treatment of a patient for the purpose of lowering blood pressure and/or treating other medical conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias. A catheter having an ablation element is placed inside the body of a patient and is directed to a targeted location either on in the abdominal aorta where the right or left renal arteries branch from the aorta at or near the superior junction or ostia or on the inside of the inferior vena cava near the junction with the right renal vein or in the left renal vein at a position spatially near where the left renal artery branches from the abdominal aorta. Catheters designed for use in the method where these targeted locations are also disclosed and claimed.
US09439721B2	Bi-modal linear and loop ablation catheter, and method Medical devices, systems, and methods for treating patients with tissue ablation include catheter systems having bi-modal steering mechanisms, which are capable of both linear and loop ablation. In other words, the catheter system may have two different steering modes: two-dimensional and three-dimensional. In the first and second steering modes, the steering actuator may cause one or more portions of the catheter shaft to bend in different planes. A steerable ablation catheter may include treatment elements such as electrodes at its distal end and along the catheter shaft, each of which may map, pace, and ablate. Optional features include a series of thermocouples for monitoring local temperatures.
US09439720B2	Tissue extraction devices and methods A tissue resection device comprises inner and outer coaxial sleeves. The outer sleeve has a cutting window formed therein, and the inner sleeve has a distal cutting end that can be reciprocated past the cutting window. The sleeves comprise electrodes to provide electrosurgical cutting, and an edge portion of the window includes a dielectric material.
US09439717B2	Surgical forceps including thermal spread control A surgical instrument includes one or more electrically-conductive plates adapted to connect to a source of energy for supplying energy to tissue to treat tissue, a temperature sensing element, and a thermal spread control assembly coupled to the temperature sensing element. The thermal spread control assembly is configured to determine a flow rate of heat energy across the temperature sensing element and to control the energy applied to the electrically-conductive plate and/or control active cooling of the temperature sensing element in accordance with the determined flow rate of heat energy.
US09439716B2	Bipolar coagulation probe and snare An electrosurgical device that can be used to remove pedunculated tissue structures such as polyps and certain uterine fibroids includes bipolar surface electrodes and a bipolar snare. The device includes a probe having a proximal end and a distal end, bipolar surface electrodes adjacent to the distal end of the probe, and a bipolar snare extending distally from the distal end of the probe and including first and second snare electrodes. The bipolar surface electrodes are separated from each other by a gap and extend over a portion of the distal end of the probe. Providing both a bipolar snare and bipolar surface electrodes advantageously reduces thermal spread from occurring (compared to the use of a monopolar snare) when using the snare to excise the tissue. The bipolar surface electrodes can be used to coagulate the point of excision.
US09439714B2	Vacuum coagulation probes A surgical device integrating a suction mechanism with a coagulation mechanism is provided for improving lesion creation capabilities. The device comprises an elongate member having an insulative covering attached about means for coagulating soft tissue. Openings through the covering expose regions of the coagulation-causing elements and are coupled to lumens in the elongate member which are routed to a vacuum source. A fluid source to passively transport fluid along the contacted soft tissue surface may be provided in order to push the maximum temperature deeper into tissue.
US09439713B2	Systems and methods for activating transducers Transducer-based systems and methods may be configured to display a graphical representation of a transducer-based device, the graphical representation including graphical elements corresponding to transducers of the transducer-based device, and also including between graphical elements respectively associated with a set of the transducers and respectively associated with a region of space between the transducers of the transducer-based device. Selection of graphical elements and/or between graphical elements can cause activation of the set of transducers associated with the selected elements. Transducer activation characteristics, such as initiation time, activation duration, activation sequence, and energy delivery characteristics, can vary based on numerous factors. Visual characteristics of graphical elements and between graphical elements can change based on an activation-status of the corresponding transducers. Activation requests for a set of transducers can be denied if it is determined that a transducer in the set of transducers is unacceptable for activation.
US09439704B2	Methods and devices for bone preparation A manifold has at least one manifold aperture extending therethrough and selectively placed in fluid communication with a fluid source. An insertion structure has at least one interior cavity at least partially defined by a structure shell and is selectively placed in fluid communication with a corresponding manifold aperture. The insertion structure is configured for selective placement in a penetrating relationship with a patient tissue below a surface of the patient tissue. At least one shell perforation extends through the structure shell and places the interior cavity in fluid communication with a surrounding ambient space. At least one fluid path extends from the fluid source, through the manifold aperture, into the interior cavity, through at least one shell perforation, and at least one of a proximate relationship and a contacting relationship with the patient tissue beneath the outer surface thereof. A fluid is directed along the fluid path.
US09439700B2	Bone anchor with locking cap and method of spinal fixation A bone anchor (100) for attaching a rod (108) to a bone has an anchor member (106) for attachment to the bone and an anchor head (104) having a U-shaped opening for receiving the rod. The bone anchor also includes a locking cap (102) that has a main body (900) and a set screw (1000). Advantageously, in one embodiment the locking cap preferably is designed such that a single tool can be used to lock the locking cap in place on the anchor body preferably with a 90° turn and preferably then drive the set screw to clamp the rod. The locking cap also preferably non-threadingly engages the anchor body. The anchor body preferably has an inclined surface on its top surface which elastically deflects extending tabs on the main body to secure the locking cap to the anchor body. A method of implantation and assembly of the bone anchor are also described.
US09439690B2	Lamina implant and method A prosthetic implant for restoring lamina after a laminectomy. The implant is generally a lamina-sized construct having a hollow interior. The lamina removed during the laminectomy may be converted to autologous bone that may then be placed inside the hollow interior of the implant. The implant may then be secured to the spine at the site of the laminectomy so that lamina restoration can occur as the hollow interior of the implant solidifies with bone growth.
US09439689B2	Modular interspinous fixation system and method A modular interspinous fixation system and method are shown. The system and method comprise a first plate, a second plate and a locking cross bar for locking the first and second plates together and into locked engagement with a first spinous process and a second spinous process. A bridge is mounted or received on the locking cross bar so that it becomes locked onto the locking cross bar when the locking cross bar is in locked engagement. The bridge and locking cross bar are adapted so that the bridge does not rotate about its axis while on the locking cross bar. Various other embodiments are shown illustrating various bridges of different shapes and sizes, integral and non-integral locking cross bars and even a ramped locking cross bar for facilitating preventing separation of the first and second plates after they are mounted to the first and second spinous processes.
US09439686B2	Spinal correction system and method A spinal construct comprises a pliable lead. A longitudinal member is flexible relative to the lead. The longitudinal member extends between a first end connected to the lead and a second end defining an opening configured for movement of the lead therethrough and disposal of the longitudinal member such that the longitudinal member is disposed about spinal tissue. Systems and methods are disclosed.
US09439682B2	Polyaxial screw The present invention generally is directed toward a spinal fixation system whereby a coupling element allows the physician to selectively lock or unlock either the connection between the coupling element and a fastener, such as to allow for repositioning of the coupling element, or the connection between the coupling element and an elongate rod. The locking or unlocking of these connections may be made independently and as desired by the physician.
US09439675B2	Inside-out guide for hip replacement method A tool and method for locating a proper position for a portal incision for hip arthroplasty, the tool being a tubular body having a first portion defining a first axis, a second portion defining a second axis non-parallel to the first axis, the second portion having a directional tool and a lead coaxially aligned, wherein when the tubular body is placed adjacent to an acetabulum with the directional tool aimed at the acetabulum and perpendicular to a plane of the face of the acetabulum, the lead points to location on the skin that would be the proper location for the portal incision. The lead may have a blunt tip, a cutting instrument, or an opening through which a flexible tool can be inserted to forge a path towards the proper location for the portal incision.
US09439673B2	Method and apparatus for skin resurfacing Exemplary embodiments of method and apparatus are provided for resurfacing of skin that includes formation of a plurality of small holes, e.g., having widths less than about 1 mm or 0.5 mm, using a mechanical apparatus, thus avoiding generation of thermal damage as occurs with conventional laser resurfacing procedures and devices. The holes formed can be well-tolerated by the skin, and can exhibit shorter healing times and less swelling than conventional resurfacing procedures. The apparatus includes one or more needles adapted to remove a small portion of tissue when inserted into and withdrawn from the skin. The fractional surface coverage of the holes can be between about 0.1 and 0.7, or between about 0.2 and 0.5. The exemplary method and apparatus can produce cosmetic effects such as increases in collagen content, epidermal thickness, and dermal/epidermal junction undulations in the skin.
US09439672B2	Surgical instrument handle with adjustable actuator position A surgical instrument handle operates a microsurgical instrument on a surgical instrument head by manipulation of the instrument handle. The instrument handle has an elongate center rod with a ring mounted on the rod for reciprocating movement. The ring is operatively associated with the surgical instrument head for operation of the microsurgical instrument of the head. A plurality of resilient arms extend along the length of the rod and engage against a sliding surface of the ring. The inward and outward movement of the plurality of arms reciprocates the ring on the handle rod to cause operation of the surgical instrument head.
US09439664B2	Thrombus removal and intravascular distal embolic protection device A clot extraction catheter comprises a tubular mesh, a tapered tip fixed to the tubular mesh distal end, a rim attached to the tubular mesh proximal end, control wires, a guidewire channel, an inner sheath, and an outer sheath advancable over the guidewire channel and inner sheath. To extract a clot, the catheter is advanced through the clot over a guidewire. The inner sheath is retracted relative to the control wires and the tubular mesh, allowing the rim and the tubular mesh to expand. The tubular mesh is retracted to capture the clot, constrained proximally by the distal portion of the inner sheath, and retracted with the inner sheath into the outer sheath. The control wires may be manipulated to control the angle of the rim relative to the longitudinal axis of the sheaths, facilitating clot capture and retraction of the tubular mesh into the sheaths thereafter.
US09439654B2	Endoscopic surgical clip applier An apparatus for application of surgical clips to body tissue is provided and includes a handle assembly; a shaft assembly including a housing extending distally from the handle assembly and defining a longitudinal axis; a plurality of surgical clips disposed within the shaft assembly; a jaw mounted adjacent a distal end portion of the shaft assembly, the jaw being movable between an open spaced-apart condition and a closed approximated condition; and a pusher bar reciprocally disposed within the housing of the shaft assembly and being detachably connectable to the housing of the shaft assembly, the pusher bar being configured to load a distal-most surgical clip into the jaws during distal movement and remain connected to the housing of the shaft assembly and in a distally advanced position during an approximation of the jaws.
US09439651B2	Methods for cryptographic identification of interchangeable parts for surgical instruments A method for encrypted authentication of interchangeable parts of a surgical instrument includes providing a surgical end effector at a distal end of a handle of the surgical instrument and electrically connecting an authentication controller within the handle to a receiving portion of the end effector. An interchangeable part is removably placed at the receiving portion. The interchangeable part is authenticated with the authentication controller when the interchangeable part is seated in the end effector.
US09439650B2	Apparatus and method for resectioning gastro-esophageal tissue A system for stapling tissue comprises a flexible endoscope and an operative head including a pair of opposed, curved tissue clamping jaws sized to pass through an esophagus, the jaws being moveable with respect to one another between an open tissue receiving configuration and a closed tissue clamping configuration, a first one of the curved jaws including a stapling mechanism and a second one of the jaws including a staple forming anvil surface, the stapling mechanism including staple slots through which staples are fired arranged in a row extending from a proximal end of the first jaw to a distal end thereof in combination with a control handle which, when the operative head is in an operative position within one of a patient's stomach and esophagus, remains outside the patient, the control handle including a first actuator for moving the jaws relative to one another and a second actuator for operating the stapling mechanism.
US09439648B1	Suture passer with retractable needle sheath The suture passer with retractable needle sheath has an elongate housing with a handle extending generally radially from its proximal end. A hollow suture needle is affixed to the handle and extends through the housing to its opposite distal end. A selectively retractable and extendible needle sheath resides in the housing and is disposed about the needle. The sheath is extended over the needle tip to preclude inadvertent damage to internal organs during endoscopic surgery. The sheath is operated by a linear slide disposed externally to the housing. The sheath retraction and extension mechanism is similar to that used in retractable tip ball point pens. A tensile wire extends through the hollow needle, to manipulate a suture grip extending from the side of the needle adjacent the needle tip. A pivotally attached lever extends from the handle and is connected to the tensile wire for manipulating the suture grip.
US09439641B2	Exposure apparatus for posterior spinal minimally invasive screw placement surgery An exposure apparatus for posterior spinal minimally invasive screw placement surgery includes a transverse process refractor and a facet joint retractor, is provided. The apparatus separates a gap between a multifidus muscle and a longissimus muscle, easily and atraumatically reach a screw placement position on a pedicle, accurately place the retractors, and thereafter locally form a screw placement tunnel space that externally extends 10 to 15 degrees. During a screw placement operation, the distal end of the transverse process refractor can straddle above the transverse process and is antagonistically tractive with the facet joint retractor so as to leave a sufficient space for the screw placement operation and to prompt a needle inlet point and direction for placing a pedicle screw. The distal end of the refractor employs a design of a recessed crescent type, protects local soft tissues during traction, and prevents the tissues from damage.
US09439639B2	Medical treatment tool A medical treatment tool (10) includes a retractor main body (30) and a converter (20). The retractor main body (30) forms a cylindrical shape and is placed in an incision. The converter (20) is detachably installed on an opening end (32) of the retractor main body (30) and closes the opening end (32). Ports (22a) to (22d) through which treatment tools are respectively inserted into the retractor main body (30) are provided in a plurality of sites of the converter (20). The converter (20) can be installed on the opening end (32) at an installation angle which is selected from a plurality of angles. The positional relationships of the ports (22a) to (22d) with respect to the retractor main body (30) when the converter (20) is installed on the opening end (32) at the respective installation angles become different from each other.
US09439636B2	Wound plugs A medical device for wound closure, including an elongate body with a plurality of portions and a perforated region disposed therebetween. The medical device may also include an alignment member. The wound plug may also have a first position for insertion, the portions being mechanically coupled to each other, and a second position where one or more of the portions are spatially separated.
US09439624B2	Three dimensional mapping display system for diagnostic ultrasound machines and method An apparatus, system, and method where the ultrasound transducer position registration is automated, calculates the position of each pixel in the ultrasound image in reference to the predetermined anatomical reference points (AR) and can store the information on demand. The graphic interface associated with the ultrasound image allows for the instant display of selected targets position coordinates relative to anatomical reference points, in the ultrasound images. This system would significantly reduce the ultrasound examination time, by eliminating the time consuming manual labeling of images and speeding up the target finding at subsequent examinations, enhance correlation capability with other diagnostic imaging modalities like CT scans, MRI, mammograms, decrease human errors and fatigue, provide an easy, uniform, method of communicating the target position among healthcare providers.
US09439623B2	Surgical planning system and navigation system The present disclosure is directed to a planning and navigation system. The planning system includes a memory configured to store a plurality of images and a controller configured to render the plurality of images in three dimensions, automatically segment the plurality of images to demarcate a target area, and automatically determine a treatment plan based on the target area. The navigation system includes an ultrasound device having a fiducial pattern that obtains an ultrasound image, a surgical device having a image capture device that captures an image of the fiducial pattern, and a controller that receives the ultrasound image and the fiducial image. The controller determines a position of the surgical device based on the fiducial image. The planning and navigation system also includes a controller that receives data from the planning system and the navigation system and a display configured to display the received information.
US09439613B2	System and method for phase-contrast X-ray imaging A differential phase contrast X-ray imaging system includes an X-ray illumination system, a beam splitter arranged in a radiation path of the X-ray illumination system, and a detection system arranged in a radiation path to detect X-rays after passing through the beam splitter.
US09439612B2	Method and apparatus for variable X-ray filtration The present invention pertains to a system and method for adaptive X-ray filtration comprising a volume of X-ray attenuating material with a central less attenuating three-dimensional region. The volume of X-ray attenuating material can be positioned within 10 cm from an X-ray source and rotated around an internal axis of rotation. The volume of X-ray attenuating material can be symmetric around the internal axis while the central less attenuating region can be asymmetric around the internal axis. Rotating the volume by a predetermined angle around the internal axis can change the amount of attenuation of an X-ray beam through the filter. The volume can be rotated by the same predetermined angle as an imaging subject or X-ray source and detector are rotated during X-ray image acquisition.
US09439605B2	C-arm system with extended field of view The present invention relates to a C-arm X-ray imaging system. In order to provide C-arm systems with an extended three-dimensional field of view, a C-arm X-ray imaging system (10), provided to acquire extended three-dimensional images of an object, is provided, comprising a C-arm structure (12) with an X-ray source (14) and an X-ray detector (16) mounted across from the X-ray source, a motorized drive (22) for a rotational movement of the C-arm structure, and a control unit (26). The C-arm structure is provided to perform a rotational scan around an axis of rotation and around an ISO-center acquiring a number of X-ray projections in order to generate image data for a reconstructed three-dimensional field of view. The control unit is configured to control the motorized drive, and to cause the rotational movement of the C-arm structure to perform a first rotational X-ray scan (50) around a first ISO-center (56) with a first axis of rotation for a first field of view, and to perform at least a second rotational X-ray scan (60) around a second ISO-center (62) with a second axis of rotation for a second field of view. The first and the second center of rotation are displaced in relation to each other such that a connection line between the first and the second ISO-center is arranged transverse to the first and the second axis of rotation.
US09439604B2	Electronic fetal monitoring applications and display Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for displaying on a user display device alarm-triggering events detected by the medical device based on the location of the user display device. The method comprises receiving alarm-triggering patient data from a medical device and determining the physical location of first and second user display devices. The method further comprises determining that the physical location of the first user display device is designated to have an alarm displayed, and that the physical location of the second user display device is not designated to have an alarm displayed. In response to these determinations, the content of the alarm is displayed on the first user display device.
US09439587B2	Test method and test device for analysing a body fluid There is provided a test method for analyzing a body fluid in which a test tape is used in a test device to successively provide analytical test fields stored on the test tape, wherein body fluid is applied by a user to the test field provided at a time and the said test field is photometrically scanned using a measuring unit of the device to record measurement signals. To increase the measurement reliability, it is proposed that a control value is determined from a time-dependent and/or wavelength-dependent change in the measurement signals and that the measurement signals are processed as valid or discarded as erroneous depending on the control value.
US09439580B2	Histogram-based thoracic impedance monitoring Systems and methods for monitoring pulmonary edema or other thoracic fluid status in a subject use thoracic impedance histogram information. An internal or external processor circuit receives the thoracic impedance histogram information and uses it to compute and provide a lung fluid status indication. The thoracic impedance histogram information can include a count, mean or median of a histogram bin or subrange of bins within the histogram range.
US09439563B2	Measurement method and system Methods and systems for determining an individual gaze value are disclosed herein. An exemplary method involves: (a) receiving gaze data for a first wearable computing device, wherein the gaze data is indicative of a wearer-view associated with the first wearable computing device, and wherein the first wearable computing device is associated with a first user-account; (b) analyzing the gaze data from the first wearable computing device to detect one or more occurrences of one or more advertisement spaces in the gaze data; (c) based at least in part on the one or more detected advertisement-space occurrences, determining an individual gaze value for the first user-account; and (d) sending a gaze-value indication, wherein the gaze-value indication indicates the individual gaze value for the first user-account.
US09439559B2	Image pickup apparatus and electronic device using the same An image pickup device constituted by a bare chip is mounted to a flexible substrate including an opening portion and a wiring pattern, so that a light receiving area is positioned at the opening portion and so as to be electrically connected to the wiring pattern. A rigid substrate having a concave portion capable of housing the image pickup device is connected to the flexible substrate. A bottom face of the concave portion is set as a reference face for regulating the optical axis direction of the image pickup device, and a rear face of the image pickup device is firmly fixed to the bottom face. A wiring pattern is provided on the rigid substrate, and the wiring pattern of the rigid substrate and the wiring pattern of the flexible substrate are electrically connected.
US09439552B2	Apparatus for improving door robustness in a dishwasher A dishwasher for treating dishes according to a cycle of operation includes a tub having an open face, a door selectively moveable to open and close the open face, and comprising spaced interior and exterior panels having peripheral edges that are coupled along at least a portion of the peripheral edges by a peripheral wall to collectively define a door interior, and a controller mounting bracket located within the door interior.
US09439550B2	One-piece foam construct The invention relates to a one-piece foam construct reversibly assembled by at least one binder, as well as the methods of making and assembling said one-piece foam construct. The construct is meant for use as a cleaning implement.
US09439540B2	Potato chip lifter A potato chip lifting apparatus has a elongated handle with a front side and a back side, the back side having a plurality of catching mechanisms extending from the back side of the elongated handle and away from the elongated handle, the catching mechanisms configured to engage a can in which potato chips are stored. A foot portion is removably and rotatably attached to a bottom portion of the elongated handle, the foot portion movable between a first position and a second position, in the second position the foot portion extends in a direction away from the front side of the handle and generally orthogonal to the elongated handle and the front side thereof.
US09439536B2	Barbeque grill and oven A barbeque grill and oven or food smoker having an offset firebox configuration is disclosed. Example embodiments include: an oven having an enclosed interior region for cooking food items; an offset firebox sharing at least a portion of a side of the oven, the offset firebox having a first opening over which a removable grill may be placed, the firebox having a second opening through which airflow may travel from the firebox into the oven; and an oven lid configured to produce an opening in the top of the oven of any desired site the opening of the oven lid causing an increase in the flow of heated an from the firebox into the oven.
US09439516B2	Ergonomic twin baby carrier A child carrier for carrying two children of different sizes has a first and second child carrier portions including first and second carrier pouches, respectively, each pouch attached at its bottom to a waist support, and shoulder straps. The first and second child carrier portions are configured to be secured between the shoulder straps and directly opposite one another. At least one of the child carrier pouches is configured to extend behind the shoulder straps, such that a heavy weight in the opposite child carrier pouch that presses the shoulder straps tightly against a wearer does not compress a child therein against the wearer. Each of the child carrier pouches is curved towards a wearer to prevent a child inserted therein from facing away from the wearer and is configured to hold a child in a seated straddle position.
US09439514B2	Bed frame having protective plastic casing A bed frame wherein the side rail and/or cross rails are fully encased in plastic shields. A plastic shield or shields cover the entire cross sectional area of the side and cross rails so that the side rail and cross rails are easy to handle and esthetically pleasing. The system avoids the need for a person to handle cold, sometimes dirty, steel and the cross and side rails may be T-shaped or L-shaped angle irons, or other configurations and covered with plastic shields. With the plastic shields, the steel members need not be finished since the outer appearance of the steel is encased by the plastic shields and not seen by persons.
US09439510B2	Retrofit shower corner shelf assembly Disclosed is a retrofit shower corner shelf assembly kit including a shelf adapted for retrofitting into an existing shower corner; an adhesive composition for securing the shelf into the existing shower corner; and optionally a decorative composition for concealing edges of the shelf directly adjacent to the existing shower corner. Disclosed is a shelf adapted for retrofitting into an existing shower corner, the shelf includes two flat edges configured for securing the shelf directly on top of a surface and a third flat, free edge, wherein the shelf includes an upper layer, a middle layer attached to the upper layer, a lower layer attached to the middle layer, and the third flat, free edges conceals middle and lower layers of the shelf.
US09439509B2	Removably attachable and adjustable outdoor furniture weights A glide foot for outdoor furniture is removably attachable to a bottom surface of a piece of outdoor furniture to protect the bottom surface of the furniture from being scratched or otherwise damaged from abrasive outdoor surfaces, for example a patio surface. The glide foot also adjustably adds weight to the furniture to stabilize the furniture in windy conditions without detracting from the aesthetic appearance of the furniture.
US09439505B2	Support structures for hanging equipment Described herein is a new assembly of components which comprise a support structure for hanging or supporting bicycles or similar equipment. The rack is designed using a number of tubes that pack into themselves for an extremely compact, lightweight assembly which is very easy to transport and store. The simple design ensures long term reliability and ease of use.
US09439503B2	Short wavelength visible light-emitting toothbrush with an electronic signal interlock control A short wavelength visible light-emitting toothbrush with an electronic interlock control device preventing operation when the toothbrush is removed from the user's mouth. The electronic interlock control over operation is necessary to prevent accidental eye exposure to the high intensity light source with a wavelength in the range of 400 nm to 500 nm. The light-emitting toothbrush activates upon formation of an electrical circuit between the brush handle in contact with the users hand and the brush head or brush bristles in contact with moisture contained in a human mouth such as saliva or water mixed with toothpaste but deactivates immediately when removed from the mouth, thus protecting the user's eyes from direct exposure to the high power light source contained in the brush-head.
US09439502B2	Handheld tool for applying a fluid onto a surface A method and apparatus for applying a fluid onto a number of surfaces. The apparatus comprises a structure, an applicator associated with the structure, a first control device associated with the structure, and a second control device associated with the structure. Applying a first force to the first control device causes the applicator to move relative to a center axis of the applicator. Applying a second force to the second control device causes the fluid to be delivered from a fluid dispensing system to the applicator.
US09439492B2	Wrap-n-dry towel The Wrap-n-Dry Towel has a hook strip on one side of the towel and a loop strip on the opposite side of the towel. When the towel is wrapped around a person's head to the forehead and the hook and loop are pressed together it provides a strong wrap. The towel is never twisted into a knot and is loose on the hair and allows the hair and towel to drape down the back side of the person allowing faster drying of the hair and preventing tangling of the hair for a healthier strand of hair and ease of brushing the hair out.
US09439485B2	Gallery pendant A gallery pendant is described for displaying art and craft articles including jewels, gems, cabochons, paper, drawings, leather, metal, and images that can be secured within an open face, open top box by a detachable face frame and a cord or chain received through ear loops through the sides of the box proximate the open top of the box.
US09439484B2	Jewellery with securely nested changeable decorative elements A jewelry with securely nested changeable decorative elements having a main decorative element, optionally one or more auxiliary decorative element, securely fitted on a base ornament. The auxiliary decorative element, when present, is trapped between the main decorative element and the base ornament, the main decorative element and the optional auxiliary decorative element are securely nested and locked with the base ornament; and the main decorative element and the optional auxiliary decorative element get unlocked by a common action by a pointed tool. The main decorative element and auxiliary decorative element look integral to base ornament, that is, as if the jewelry is single piece jewelry.
US09439483B1	Cut diamond providing predetermined optical performance A gemstone cut with a table facet, where the gemstone receives existing light from around the viewer and the facets on the bottom of the diamond effectively reflect the existing light back into the eyes of the beholder in such a manner as to maximize light performance and to provide specific optical performance.
US09439469B2	Protective helmet A protective helmet includes an outer layer and an inner layer interconnected by multiple connectors under tension along their longitudinal axis. The connectors absorb energy from an impact force by resisting further tension along their longitudinal axis and allow the outer layer and inner layer to move relative to each other. In protecting the head of a user, the helmet reduces the amount of impact force experienced, reduces the change in momentum or position of the head and neck, reduces head and neck loads and reduces the amount of linear and rotational acceleration. The helmet can be used in numerous applications and environments, including for participants in sports, including football, baseball, lacrosse, racing, skiing, for commercial activities, including construction, and for military personnel, including pilots and soldiers.
US09439468B1	Protective athletic helmet A protective athletic helmet configured to reduce or prevent head injuries such as concussions. The protective athletic helmet including a durable outer shell, a shock absorbent middle layer, and a flexible inner shell. The shock absorbent middle layer including a plurality of shock absorbent hemispheres positioned adjacent to a plurality of foam pads. The outer durable shell and the inner flexible shell configured to permit the durable outer shell to move independently from the flexible inner shell and to permit the shock absorbent middle layer to absorb energy resulting from an impact force to the outer surface of the durable outer shell.
US09439467B2	Accessory structures for connection between straps and related methods Accessory structures for connection to straps of user-wearable accessories include a module, a first strap engagement structure disposed on a first side of the module, and a second strap engagement structure disposed on a second side of the module. The module may comprise at least one of an integral accessory device and an attachment feature configured for attachment to a separate accessory device. The strap engagement structures are configured for connection to straps of a user-wearable accessory. User-wearable accessory systems include such an accessory structure and a user-wearable accessory to which the accessory structure may be connected. Methods include the formation of such an accessory structure. Additional methods include the connection of such an accessory structure to a user-wearable accessory.
US09439463B1	Combination pillow/blanket/poncho travel accessory A system for a travel accessory being a combination blanket/poncho/pillow that includes a blanket having a hood storable in a pocket on the back thereof and having arm slits/straps so that the blanket can be placed about the shoulders of a user and used either as substantially a blanket or substantially a poncho with the hood being placed over the head of the user. Also included is an accessory pack organizer for storing items therein along with a pillow having carrying handles and back straps wherein the combination system can be carried about by the user. Also shown is a feature wherein a decorative item can be placed on the upper front portion of the hood so that the decorative item can be prominently displayed on the top of the head of the user.
US09439455B2	Electronic smoking device An electronic smoking device includes a first sensor for detecting a user's action for smoking, an air inlet, an air flow path extending from the air inlet, a liquid compartment storing a smoking liquid, a dispensing control device configured to selectively dispense the smoking liquid from the liquid compartment, a vaporizing compartment connected to the liquid compartment and the air flow path, a heater located at the vaporizing compartment, a controller configured to activate the heater to vaporize the smoking liquid dispensed from the liquid compartment when the user's action for smoking is detected by the first sensor, and a smoke outlet connected to the vaporizing compartment, wherein an amount of the smoking liquid dispensed by the dispensing control device is responsive to an amount of air flowing in the vaporizing compartment.
US09439451B2	Paper filled with tobacco particles What is presented is a paper for mixing into the smokeable material of a smoking article, particularly into the tobacco rod of a cigarette, wherein the paper contains a share of fibers, which comprises pulp fibers and tobacco particles.
US09439446B2	Dispensing apparatus Individual portions of ice cream are dispensed from a bulk container. A motor drives a lead screw, to expand a scissor linkage and drive a dispensing head against the bulk container. Pressure applied to the container causes it to collapse and discharge ice cream from an outlet. The lead screw is orthogonal with the movement of the dispensing head and the axis of collapse of the container. The container, motor and lead screw are carried on a drawer which is slidably mounted in a refrigerated housing. Pressure is monitored to regulate operation of the motor. An encoder controls the motor for a specific portion size.
US09439444B2	Fat/meat grading method and system Method and system for processing of meat trim products, where trim products are supplied as a sequence of collections of trim (COTs), each collection of trim (COT) comprising a plurality of trim products, whereby: a fat/meat relationship for a collection of trim (COT) is measured; a collection of trim (COT) is transferred to a selected station by a separator, controlled by a controller; and whereby a batch is completed at a selected station on the basis of data for said fat/meat relationship, said batch comprising one or more collections of trim (COTs) and fulfilling a predetermined criterion regarding a total fat/meat relationship.
US09439443B2	Apparatus and process for the production with an interleaver An apparatus for formation of products comprising an edible material and an interleaver, the apparatus including a drum with mould cavities, each with a bottom and a sidewall, in which the edible material is formed. The apparatus including an interleaver storage having one or more interleavers, and a transportation means configured to transport the one or more interleavers from the interleaver storage to a circumference of the drum where the edible material is placed on the interleaver. The bottom and/or the sidewall is made from a porous material and pressurized gas is forced through the porous material to eject the edible material from the mould cavities. After ejection, the products are stacked such that one interleaver is between two edible materials.
US09439442B2	Method of preparing a dough-based product Dough with a high sucrose content (such as cake dough) tends to inhibit the activity of an anti-staling amylase such as Novamyl, making it less effective to prevent the staling of dough-based products with high sucrose content such as cakes. A good anti-staling effect in cakes can be achieved by using a carefully selected anti-staling amylase with certain properties.Analysis of a 3D structure of Novamyl shows that sucrose may inhibit by binding in the active site. Sucrose docks into the active site of Novamyl differently from the substrate or inhibitor in published models 1QHO and 1QHP. This finding is used to design sucrose-tolerant variants.
US09439439B2	Antimicrobial action of Cu, CuO and Cu2O nanoparticles on glass surfaces and durable coatings A transparent cover glass for applications such as, but not limited to, touch screen devices that embody antimicrobial properties that include s being antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral. The antimicrobial glasses contain nanoparticles of Cu or Cu2O on the surface of the glass. The antimicrobial glasses can further have a fluorosilane coating or other coating on the surface to make the glasses easy-to-clean. Also, glass surfaces having an antibacterial or antimicrobial surfaces and a protective coating on the surface that do not inhibit the antibacterial or antimicrobial properties of the glass are described. The disclosure is further directed to methods of making such articles.
US09439438B2	Methods and compositions for reducing Shiga toxin induced toxicity in mammals Manganese compositions effective in reducing Shiga toxin-induced toxicity in mammals infected with Shiga toxin-producing bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7 are described. Manganese compositions described herein can be combined with antibiotic therapy as manganese can block the toxic effects of Shiga toxin released from dying bacteria.
US09439437B2	Antimicrobial and antiviral polymeric materials The invention provides an antimicrobial and antiviral polymeric material, having microscopic particles of ionic copper encapsulated therein and protruding from surfaces thereof.
US09439434B2	Honeybee repellents and uses thereof The present specification discloses honeybee repellents exhibiting repellent properties similar to 2-heptanone, compositions comprising such repellents, uses to repel a honeybee from a mammal, location, plant, structure treated of such repellents, and methods of treating a mammal, location, plant, structure by applying such repellents.
US09439433B2	Compositions and methods comprising a biocidal polyamine Compounds, compositions, and methods comprising a polyamine compound are described, which may be used to kill, disperse, treat, or reduce biofilms, or to inhibit or substantially prevent biofilm formation. In certain aspects, the present invention relates to compounds, compositions, and methods comprising polyamine compounds that have antimicrobial or dispersing activity against a variety of bacterial strains capable of forming biofilms.
US09439431B2	Pesticidal mixtures comprising isoxazoline derivatives The present invention relates to pesticidal mixtures comprising a component A and a component B, wherein component A is a compound of formula (I) wherein A1, A2, L, p, R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5 are as defined in claim 1 and component B is a fungicide. The present invention also relates to methods of using said mixtures for the control of plant pests.
US09439425B2	Plant disease control composition and plant disease control method A composition containing a compound represented by formula (I) and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of pyriofenone, metrafenone, cyflufenamid, quinoxyfen, and proquinazid The composition has excellent control effect against plant diseases.
US09439424B2	Synergistic weed control from applications of aminocyclopyrachlor and aminopyralid Disclosed herein are herbicidal compositions comprising a synergistically herbicidal effective amount of (a) aminocyclopyrachlor, or an agriculturally acceptable salt or ester thereof, and (b) aminopyralid, or an agriculturally acceptable salt or ester thereof. Also disclosed herein are methods of controlling undesirable vegetation, which comprise applying to vegetation or an area adjacent the vegetation or applying to soil or water to prevent the emergence or growth of vegetation (a) aminocyclopyrachlor, or an agriculturally acceptable salt or ester thereof, and (b) aminopyralid, or an agriculturally acceptable salt or ester thereof, wherein (a) and (b) are each added in an amount sufficient to produce a synergistic herbicidal effect.
US09439423B2	Antiparasitic agent for fish and method of controlling proliferation of fish parasites An antiparasitic agent for fish includes an inhibitor of folate synthesis and/or an inhibitor of folate activation as the active substance(s). A combination preparation composed of an inhibitor of folate synthesis and an inhibitor of folate activation is disclosed. Sulfonamide is disclosed as suitable for the inhibitor of folate synthesis. A dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor, a folate antagonist are disclosed as suitable inhibitors of folate activation. The antiparasitic agent is able to exterminate fish parasites via oral administration. It is effective against fish parasites belonging to the ciliate group.
US09439417B2	Silicone elastomer product exhibiting a biocidal activity The present invention relates to an antimicrobial product obtained from a silicone-based system exhibiting a biocidal activity on its surface, said system comprising a silicone elastomer matrix and a mineral filler of particles chosen from the group of the silicas or aluminosilicates, for example zeolites or bentonites, said particles being dispersed in said matrix and comprising, grafted to their surface, molecules of the alkylsilane type incorporating at least one quaternary ammonium functional group.
US09439416B2	Compositions and methods comprising terpenes or terpene mixtures selected from thymol, eugenol, geraniol, citral, and l-carvone The present invention relates to compositions comprising terpenes which are particularly suitable for treating plant infections, to methods of making such compositions, and to methods of using them. The present invention also relates to compositions comprising terpenes and hollow glucan particles or cell wall particles and methods for preparing such compositions; such compositions increase terpene stability and activity and provide a suitable carrier for the terpenes. The invention also relates to methods of using such compositions in the medical, veterinary and agricultural fields. In particular, the terpenes disclosed are thymol, eugenol, geraniol, citral and L-carvone.
US09439415B2	Method for reducing damage by harmful organisms in corn cultivation Provided is a method for reducing damage by harmful organisms in corn cultivation. Damage by harmful organisms in corn cultivation can be reduced by carrying out the steps of: A) making a furrow in a cultivated land; B) seeding the furrow formed in the foregoing step with corn; C) applying to the furrow one or more selected from Compound Group (II), or C′) applying to the furrow one or more selected from Compound Group (I) and one or more selected from Compound Group (II); and D) closing the furrow. Compound Group (I): clothianidin, thiamethoxam, imidacloprid and thiacloprid; Compound Group (II): bifenthrin, bioresmethrin, deltamethrin, bioallethrin, ethofenprox, fenpropathrin, cypermethrin, alpha-cypermethrin, zeta-cypermethrin, fenvalerate, esfenvalerate, cyfluthrin, beta-cyfluthrin, alpha-cypermethrin, tralomethrin, fluvalinate, permethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, flucythrinate and tefluthrin.
US09439413B2	Buck grunt deer can call The present invention relates to an animal can call used for hunting. The can call makes a noise simulating a deer buck grunt call when inverted.
US09439412B2	Motion activated non-lethal animal trap Disclosed is a non-lethal animal trap that comprises a housing, a mechanically actuated trap door, a motion sensor, and a microprocessor controlled tripping mechanism. The trap includes a pathway having a first and second entrance and a first and second trap door. The pathway includes animal bait therein, whereabove a motion sensor detects objects and motion within the pathway such that the entrances to the pathway are closed by the trap doors. The motion sensor sends signals to the microprocessor, which in turn activates an electrical latch mechanism that releases the trap door mechanism from its set position to its closed position. Once closed, each trap door includes a brace that prevents the animal from forcibly opening the door. The animal is then trapped for later disposal or relocation. A plurality of indicator lights provides notification of the device operational state, including device standby, triggered, and trapped animal notification.
US09439407B2	Fishing lure with action A fishing lure for attracting fish species, the fishing lure comprising a body, a first pivot on the body, a second pivot on the body and spaced from the first pivot. A bridge is between the first pivot and the second pivot, the bridge resiliently deformable from a neutral position to a forward position. A pivot arm extends from the first pivot and is operably coupled to the bridge so that deformation of the bridge towards the forward position causes the pivot arm to rotate in a first direction and resilient recovery of the bridge towards the neutral position causes the pivot arm to rotate in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, providing a simulated action of a limb. The body maybe formed to represent a bait species such as a frog, fish, bug, insect, crab, turtle, lizard, fly, cicada, dragonfly, squid, cuttlefish or imaginary creature. Preferably the fishing lure has a first pivot arm and a second pivot arm both operably coupled to the bridge and extended beyond the first pivot and second pivot respectively, to give simultaneous bilateral action.
US09439406B1	Ice fishing trap An ice fishing trap including first and second securement struts, each having a plurality of securement chain receiving first holes. The device also includes an adjustable crossbar engaging at least an aligned pair of first and second apertures in the securement struts, a support bar on a bottom end of the securement struts, a removable trap conforming to a diameter of an ice fishing hole and having a barrier, and a trap retaining latch. The trap is secured in an open position by the engagement of the trap retaining latch. As a fish is reeled in through the hole, the fish disengages the trap retaining latch which releases the trap into a closed position at a bottom of the ice fishing hole. The barrier prevents the fish from escaping if the fish falls from a hook. The support bar prevents the trap from falling below the ice fishing hole.
US09439403B2	Aquaponic method and apparatus for use in arid environments An aquaponic method and apparatus used to raise fish in fish rearing tanks is combined with hydroponic channels for growing crops, in which fertilizer nutrients from the aquaculture effluent are utilized as fertilizer. The aquaponic method and apparatus produce a first water circulation system during the day in which water is repeatedly cycled from a sump, bypassing fish rearing tanks, to a clarifier for removing solids, a degasifier for removing volatile compound, then to the hydroponic channels, and then, back from the hydroponic channels to the sump. The aquaponic method and apparatus also produce a second circulation system during the night in which water is repeatedly cycled from the sump to the fish rearing tanks, from the fish rearing tanks to the clarifier, then from the clarifier to the hydroponic channels and then back from the hydroponic channels to the sump.
US09439401B2	Pet coat A pet garment having a coat and an integrated harness that is placed on the pet without the garment going over the pet's head. The integrated harness cording is in channels within the coat. The coat has a lengthwise opening with a fastener that extends from the hemline to the neckline of the coat, the opening over a pet's dorsal side. The coat has a protective outer layer, an inner lining layer and leg openings. The integrated harness cording merges together when the opening closes and the leash easily attaches to the harness cording ends gathered together adjacent to the closed opening. The coat covers the underbelly, leaving a concave scallop for the pet's genitals. The pet merely steps into the coat with the opening open without the coat going over the pet's head.
US09439400B2	Device for rolling up and unrolling a leash A device (10, 36, 39) for rolling up and unrolling a leash, especially for leading an animal, includes a leash roller (11) and a blocking device (22), which has an actuating element (37) and a locking element (26). The leash roller (11) can be actuated by the blocking device (22) for blocking an unrolling motion of the leash roller (11). The actuating element (37) can be actuated by an actuation motion. A locking motion of the locking element (26) can be triggered for blocking the unrolling motion of the leash roller (11) based on the actuation motion of the actuating element (37). Generation of a disturbing noise, with the blocking device, is avoided by the actuation motion of the device (10, 36, 39) being transferred by a transfer device (23) into a locking motion of the locking element (26) that is greater than the actuation motion.
US09439396B2	Method and apparatus for blocking unwanted canine interactions A method and apparatus for blocking unwanted canine interactions during a canine deployment at a public-safety incident scene is provided herein. During operation all radios associated with a public-safety incident scene will be provided a notification of canine deployment. The radios will then generate a tone to deter or repel any approaching canine.
US09439391B2	Dairy milking devices and methods A milking liner includes an integrated short air tube and short milk tube. In one configuration, the pulsation air is delivered through the bead of the milking liner directly inside the shell when the liner is connected to the shell. In another configuration, the integrated short air tube has an outlet outside the shell. The disclosure also provides aligned nipple pairs on the claw top. One configuration is provided wherein the pulsation nipples and air fork are integrated with the claw that has the liner nipples. Another configuration is provided wherein the air fork is separate from the claw. A method of readily supplying pulsation air to a shell includes the step of integrated the step of connecting the short air tube and the shell with the step of connecting the shell to the milking liner.
US09439389B2	System and method for milking stall assignment using real-time location A system comprises a memory and a processor. The memory stores information about a milking stall where a dairy livestock is located at a first time, and a coordinate location of the dairy livestock at a second time. The processor is communicatively coupled to the memory and determines if the coordinate location of the dairy livestock at the second time is different than the milking stall where the dairy livestock is located at the first time. If the coordinate location where the dairy livestock is located at the second time is not the milking stall, the processor generates an error flag associated with the dairy livestock.
US09439382B1	Soybean variety 01050895 The invention relates to the soybean variety designated 01050895. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety 01050895. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety 01050895 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety 01050895 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods.
US09439381B1	Soybean cultivar 29082991 A soybean cultivar designated 29082991 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar 29082991, to the plants of soybean cultivar 29082991, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar 29082991, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar 29082991. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 29082991. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar 29082991, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar 29082991 with another soybean cultivar.
US09439377B1	Maize inbred PH1TPN A novel maize variety designated PH1TPN and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1TPN with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1TPN 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 PH1TPN or a locus conversion of PH1TPN with another maize variety.
US09439370B2	Wicking planter system The invention involves an apparatus and system for a self-watering planter. The system includes a liquid container and a growth medium container secured together with snap type fasteners. A plurality of evenly distributed growth medium wells extends downwardly from the growth medium container into the liquid container for utilizing capillary action to transfer liquid into the growth medium. Root apertures are provided for the roots to extend into the liquid container. A snap together hanger, which includes snap-lock type fasteners, is provided for hanging the assembly from an overhead structure, and a filling window is provided to fill the liquid container.
US09439368B2	Apparatus and system for irrigation water An apparatus for directing apportion of a flow of water in an irrigated field having a pre-formed irrigation wheel track comprising a first trough capable of receiving a wheel of a mobile irrigation system, the first trough having an elevation. Further provided is an irrigation track system for directing a water flow having a pre-formed irrigation track comprised of (1) a first trough having an elevation and the first trough capable of receiving a wheel of a mobile irrigation system, (2) an irrigation reservoir having an elevation and (3) an irrigation canal having an elevation and connecting the first trough and the irrigation reservoir, the elevation of the first trough is higher than the elevation of the first irrigation reservoir and the elevation of the irrigation canal is higher than the elevation of the irrigation reservoir.
US09439363B1	Bracket system for grapple assembly A bracket system for a grapple assembly of a machine is provided. The grapple assembly includes a grapple base having an elongate portion and a mounting portion extending from the elongate portion. The bracket system includes a lining member configured to contact at least a part of the elongate portion and to a first face of the mounting portion. The bracket system further includes a first plate disposed adjacent to a second face of the mounting portion and coupled to the lining member via a plurality of first fastening members. The bracket system further includes a second plate coupled to the first plate. The second plate is coupled with a grapple saw via a plurality of second fastening members. The first plate and the second plate define a space therebetween to facilitate coupling of the first and second plates with the mounting portion and the grapple saw, respectively.
US09439362B2	System and method for growing plants This invention concerns apparatus for growing plants comprising a column (100) of pots (102) stacked one above the other to define an enclosure for housing plants. Each pot (102) defines a chamber (104) for holding a plant. Separators for separating pots of the column are provided and the separators define an enclosed headspace around a top of at least two of the pots where plants project from the chamber. The chamber comprises a passageway (106) that provides a continuous flow path for air through the column (100) without requiring the air to flow through the chamber (104). This flow path includes the headspaces above the at least two of the pots (102).
US09439360B2	Bale shredder A bale shredder apparatus may comprise a frame and a bale hopper mounted on the frame and defining an interior bale chamber for receiving a bale to be shredded with a bale feed opening. A bale shredding assembly may be in communication with the bale chamber through the opening to shred a bale in the bale chamber. A side wall of the hopper may be movable away from the primary side wall to permit removal of a bale from the bale chamber. A primary bale movement assembly may move a bale in a lateral direction toward the opening and a secondary bale movement assembly may move the bale in a direction substantially transverse to the lateral direction. A shredding rotor of the shredding assembly may include at least one brace including at least one leg extending outwardly from the outer surface of the rotor.
US09439359B2	Agricultural square baler An agricultural square baler equipped with a pre-compression chamber and configured to guide crop material towards and into the baling chamber where rectangular bales are formed. At least one of the upper and lower walls of the pre-compression chamber is formed by a conveyor belt, arranged to move from the supply towards the baling chamber. The conveyor belt has at least two portions configured to exert different friction forces on a batch of crop material, so that the high friction portion is capable of moving the batch into the baling chamber, whereas the low friction portion exerts a low force on the batch, thereby preventing material to be prematurely moved towards the baling chamber.
US09439353B2	Pull-type cotton harvester and baler A cotton harvester and baler (20) to be towed by a vehicle (24), carries at least one mechanized cotton picking unit (30), a mechanized cotton baler (32) having packing apparatus (76) for compacting the picked cotton into bales (84) which are successively discharged. Cotton conveying apparatus (34) extends between the picking unit or units (30) and the baler (32), for receiving the picked cotton and conveying it to a baling chamber (72) of the baler (32) for compaction by the packing apparatus (76). The conveying apparatus (34) can comprise all mechanical, all pneumatic, or a combination of mechanical and pneumatic apparatus. The picking unit or units (30) can be removed to allow picking up and baling material such as straw or hay.
US09439349B2	Auto configuration of electrically powered reel cutting units on a reel mower A gang reel mower comprises a frame that carries a plurality of variable speed, electrically powered reel cutting units. Cutting units having different reel diameters may be installed on the frame. Upon system power up, a mower controller on the frame automatically acquires information identifying the reel size of the cutting units then installed on the frame and uses the acquired reel size information to properly set the speed of the electric motors driving the cutting units to a desired value, such as that needed to maintain a desired clip. Thus, the cutting units can be changed in size with the mower controller automatically recognizing the change in a plug and play manner.
US09439348B2	Autonomous working device An autonomous working device, in particular an autonomous lawn mower, comprising a computing unit. The autonomous working device is configured to cover a surface to be treated in strips. The computing unit is configured to adjust an overlap of the strips according to at least one parameter.
US09439347B2	Manual lawnmower deck guard positioner An apparatus for raising and lowering a mower deck guard/chute includes a platform attachment assembly configured for attachment to a movable platform, a housing mount configured to be attached to a riding machine surface, and a linkage assembly having a break-away safety mechanism and configured to connect the platform attachment assembly to the housing mount and to thereby hold the movable platform in a variably raised position. The break-away safety mechanism is configured to break the connection between the platform attachment assembly and the housing mount when a tensile force is applied to the linkage assembly due to snagging or entanglement of the deck guard and/or apparatus.
US09439343B2	Precision super seeder In embodiments, a seeder may include a frame including a seed box and a rear roller. In embodiments, the seeder may be configured to removably couple with either a roller assembly or a disc blade assembly. In some embodiments, the seeder may include a front tray configured to receive two kinds of seed from two different seed boxes and disperse the seed at a position in front of the rear roller so that the seeds are planted at the same depth. In some embodiments, the seeder may further include a calibration tray which may have a width less than a width of the seeder. The calibration tray may be configured to receive seed from the seed box during a calibration procedure.
US09445536B1	Crystal oscillator fabrication methods using dual-deposition of mounting cement and dual-curing techniques A crystal oscillator fabrication method includes depositing mounting cement onto first and second mounting pads on a substrate to thereby define first and second electrode adhesion bumps. First and second electrodes of a crystal oscillator are electrically connected to the first and second mounting pads by contacting the first and second electrodes to the first and second electrode adhesion bumps and then curing the adhesion bumps. Next, mounting cement is deposited onto the first electrode and onto a portion of the first electrode adhesion bump to thereby define a top electrode adhesion extension. The top electrode adhesion extension is then cured.
US09445535B2	High-frequency module A high-frequency module includes a substrate, an integrated circuit mounted to the substrate, a cylindrical shield enclosing the integrated circuit to block radio waves, a casing provided on an opposite side of the substrate relative to the shield to block radio waves, and a choke portion provided in an inner wall of the casing, the inner wall being opposed to the shield, or provided in the substrate, with a predetermined gap being formed relative to the shield, to create an antiphase in radio waves having a predetermined frequency emitted from the integrated circuit into a space above the substrate.
US09445528B2	Thermal gap pad This application relates to efficiently distributing heat within a portable computing device. More specifically an apparatus for conducting heat between internal components of the portable computing device is disclosed. The apparatus, referred to as a thermal gap pad, is configured to bridge a variably sized gap between internal components. This is accomplished by wrapping a resilient core in a layer of highly thermally conductive material. The resilient core allows a shape of the thermal gap pad to vary in accordance with a size of the gap. A resilience of the thermal gap pad can be adjusted to account for an amount of variance in the gap. In some embodiments, an electrically conductive layer can be added to facilitate the passage of electrical current through the thermal gap pad.
US09445525B2	Power supply device In a power supply device 1, a first space R1 and a second space R2 are delimited, a coil component 20 is arranged in the first space R1, and heat-generating components and components having weak resistance to heat are arranged in the second space R2. The power supply device 1 is configured to contain the coil component 20 in the first space R1 so that ambient air of the coil component 20 can contact a first side wall 72, which constitutes the first space R1, making it possible to expect discharge of heat to coolant in a coolant channel W via the first side wall 72. Therefore, heat can be discharged from the ambient air of the coil component, the temperature of which has been raised by heat generation, towards the coolant efficiently.
US09445517B2	Etched multi-layer sheets A method includes creating an opening in a first outer layer of a multilayer sheet of material, the sheet of material having three or more layers of material, including the first outer layer and a second outer layer. A selective etchant is introduced through the opening, where the etchant selectively etches an interior metal layer of the multilayer sheet of material compared with the first and second outer layers. The selective etchant is permitted to etch material of the interior metal layer under the first outer layer.
US09445501B2	Electrically conductive composition, electrically conductive film using the composition and a method of producing the same An electrically conductive composition, containing an electrically conductive polymer, and an onium salt compound as a dopant to the electrically conductive polymer, an electrically conductive film formed by shaping the composition and a method of producing the electrically conductive film.
US09445500B2	Epoxy resin composition and printed circuit board using same The epoxy resin composition according to one embodiment of the present invention contains an epoxy compound, a curing agent, and an inorganic filler, wherein the inorganic filler contains spherical alumina (Al2O3).
US09445499B2	Epoxy resin composition, and printed circuit board using same According to one embodiment of the present invention, an epoxy resin composition comprises an epoxy compound, a curing agent, and an inorganic filler, wherein the inorganic filler includes alumina (Al2O3) and aluminum nitride (AlN).
US09445496B2	Glass clad microelectronic substrate Embodiments of the present description relate to the field of fabricating microelectronic substrates. The microelectronic substrate may include a trace routing structure disposed between opposing glass layers. The trace routing structure may comprise one or more dielectric layers having conductive traces formed thereon and therethrough. Also disclosed are embodiments of a microelectronic package including a microelectronic device disposed proximate one glass layer of the microelectronic substrate and coupled with the microelectronic substrate by a plurality of interconnects.
US09445489B2	Electronic control unit and electric power steering apparatus having the same An electronic control unit includes a board, an electronic device, a heatsink, and a fastener. The board includes a protection layer and a ground pattern covered with the protection layer. The ground pattern has an exposed portion exposed outside the protection layer. The electronic device is mounted on the board and has an anode terminal and a cathode terminal connected to the ground pattern. The heatsink supports the board. The fastener is inserted though an insertion hole of the exposed portion. The fastener electrically connects the ground pattern to the heatsink and fixes the board to the heatsink. The exposed portion is located on the cathode terminal side of the electronic device.
US09445488B2	Plasma whirl reactor apparatus and methods of use A plasma system includes a plasma arc torch, a cylindrical tube and an eductor. The plasma arc torch includes a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, and a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel. The cylindrical tube is attached to the hollow electrode nozzle and aligned with the longitudinal axis, the cylindrical tube having a side inlet and a radio frequency coil disposed around or embedded within the cylindrical tube. The eductor is attached to the cylindrical tube and aligned with the longitudinal axis.
US09445478B2	Light-emitting element lighting device, light-emitting module, illuminating apparatus, and light-emitting element lighting method A light-emitting element lighting device includes: a step-down chopper circuit which outputs a current that flows to a light-emitting element; a current command circuit which selects between a rated mode for passing a rated current for turning ON the light-emitting element and a detection mode for passing an abnormality detection current, which is smaller than the rated current, for detecting an abnormality in the light-emitting element; a voltage detection circuit which detects a voltage across both ends of the light-emitting element; and a control circuit which causes the step-down chopper circuit to stop outputting the current to the light-emitting element, when the voltage across both ends detected by the voltage detection circuit in the detection mode is lower than or equal to an abnormality detection threshold voltage which is set lower than the rated voltage at the time when the light-emitting element is turned ON.
US09445476B2	System and method for controlling LED segments to provide lighting effects A single board light engine includes an AC to AC step driver that selectively powers multiple LED segments by controlling tap points between the LED segments as the input voltage goes from zero crossover to maximum voltage and returns to zero crossover. The step driver may power a first LED segment, a second LED segment, both the first and second LED segments, or none of the LED segments depending upon the input voltage level. The LEDs within an LED segment may share a characteristic that differs from a characteristic shared by LEDs in another segment, which allows the LED fixture to provide a variety of lighting effects.
US09445472B2	Method and circuit for driving light-emitting diodes from three-phase power source Multiple LEDs connected in series are driven by DC voltage that is provided by a diode rectifier, the diode rectifier being connected to a three-phase power source and converting the three-phase currents from the three-phase power source into the DC voltage that is used to drive the light emitting diodes. In order to reduce ripple in the DC voltage, the series-connected light emitting diodes can be divided into a first set and a second set, and a first constant current source is provided that drives the first set, and a second constant current source is provided that drives the second set. The first and second constant current sources are both connected across the outputs of the rectifier circuit, and operate to drive the respective sets of light emitting diodes in alternation. The capability for dimming can be provided, as well as back-up single phase operation.
US09445466B2	Lighting system with an interface having a power supply unit and at least one light source module Various embodiments may relate to a power supply unit including an output for outputting a current, a communications line, a current-measuring device and a microcontroller including an analog-to-digital converter. The current-measuring device generates a current on the communications line which is proportional to the conductance of a current-setting resistance, the current is convertable into a digital value by the analog-to-digital converter, the power supply unit assumes various operating states based on the digital value of the measured current, and at least one light source module is connectable to the output, wherein the at least one light source module has the current-setting resistance, which is connectable to the communications line. Various embodiments may further relate to a light source module including an input, a communications line and a current-setting resistance for setting the current applied to the light source module.
US09445464B2	Method and circuit arrangement for operating light-emitting means with a sudden load variation An operating circuit for light-emitting means (18), in particular an LED string, contains an actively clocked power factor correction circuit (11), which produces a regulated output voltage (UBUS), by means of which the light-emitting means (18) are supplied directly or indirectly via at least one further converter stage (17). The regulation is performed by means of a control unit (16), which, as manipulated variable (tON), actuates clocking of a switch of the power factor correction circuit (11). The operating circuit is designed, in the event of the presence of a predefined event, for example a rapid or sudden change in the energy demand of the light-emitting means (18), selectively: —to change suddenly the value of the manipulated variable (tON) using feedforward control, and/or —to vary the time constant of the control loop of the output voltage (UBUS).
US09445462B2	Light emitting device for AC power operation Disclosed is an improved light-emitting device for an AC power operation. A conventional light emitting device employs an AC light-emitting diode having arrays of light emitting cells connected in reverse parallel. The arrays in the prior art alternately repeat on/off in response to a phase change of an AC power source, resulting in short light emission time during a ½ cycle and the occurrence of a flicker effect. An AC light-emitting device according to the present invention employs a variety of means by which light emission time is prolonged daring a ½ cycle in response to a phase change of an AC power source and a flicker effect can be reduced. For example, the means may be switching blocks respectively connected to nodes between the light emitting cells, switching blocks connected to a plurality of arrays, or a delay phosphor. Further, there is provided an AC light-emitting device, wherein a plurality of arrays having the different numbers of light emitting cells are employed to increase light emission time and to reduce a flicker effect.
US09445456B2	Dual heating element of a cooking appliance A cooking appliance including a plurality of separately controlled cooking areas, a first heating element positioned below one of the plurality of separately controlled cooking areas, a second heating element positioned below the same separately controlled cooking area as the first heating element, and an infinite switch electrically coupled with the first heating element and operable to energize the first heating element to supply heat to the separately controlled cooking area when the infinite switch is located at a first position. The switch has an operational tolerance, and the first heating element is sized such that the separately controlled cooking area is maintained below a target cooking temperature when the infinite switch is located at the first position and is operating at an upper limit of the operational tolerance.
US09445449B2	Method and devices for pairing within a group of wireless devices System for wireless communication comprises a group of wireless devices (110,120,130,140) that include at least one wireless host device (100) securely connected based on first secret data (240) shared by the group. A second secure connection is set-up between a portable wireless device (200) and a wireless host device based on second secret data (250). At least one of the wireless devices is instructed to apply a third secret data for setting up a direct wireless secure connection with the portable wireless device (200). Also the portable wireless device is instructed via the second secure connection to apply the third secret data for setting up the direct secure connections with the wireless devices based on the third secret data. Finally a respective direct wireless secure connection is set-up between the second device and a respective wireless device based on the third secret data. Advantageously latency is reduced in a secure wireless docking system.
US09445444B2	Wireless communication apparatus, non-transitory computer-readable medium, wireless communication method, peripheral apparatus, and central apparatus The accuracy of a connection is improved by avoiding unnecessary communication. A peripheral obtains an address from a central and saves the address. The peripheral transmits an advertisement including an address of a central which is a connection target. The central stores a history of its own addresses. The central receives the advertisement transmitted from the peripheral. The central determines whether the received advertisement includes any address in the history. If the central determines that the advertisement includes any address in the history, the central transmits to the peripheral a connection request signal for making a connection request.
US09445433B2	Wireless communication apparatus for lower latency communication According to an embodiment, a wireless communication apparatus includes a packet generator, a queue unit, a predictor and a scheduler. The packet generator packetizes data. The queue unit temporarily stores a packet to be transmitted. The predictor predicts a transmission time of a first packet to obtain a first time. The scheduler outputs a second packet to the queue unit at a second time earlier than the first time. An interval from a third time when transmission of the second packet is complete until the first time is equal to or shorter than a predetermined period.
US09445430B2	Wireless communication system A wireless communication system is provided in which a plurality of MTC devices can connect to a base station device efficiently. Each of MTC devices in group A that transmits data to the base station device using a predetermined application format is allocated first radio resource common in group A. The MTC device transmits an access request signal to the base station device using the first radio resource. The base station device receives the request signal from the MTC device. The base station device allocates second radio resource common in group A to the MTC device. The MTC device transmits data to the base station device using the second radio resource.
US09445419B2	Dual network mobile device radio resource management A single chip mobile wireless device capable of receiving and transmitting over one wireless network at a time maintains registration on two wireless communication networks that each use different communication protocols in parallel. Periodically, the mobile wireless device tunes one or more receivers from a first wireless network to a second wireless network in order to listen for paging messages addressed to the mobile wireless device from the second wireless network. The first wireless network suspends allocation of radio resources to the mobile wireless device based on receipt of a suspension message from the mobile wireless device, or based on knowledge of a paging cycle for mobile wireless device in the second wireless network, or based on detection of an out of synchronization condition with the mobile wireless device.
US09445418B2	Bridging wireless and wired media in a computer network In one embodiment, a transmitting node may be configured to transmit a wireless advertisement frame over a computer network, wherein the frame includes a source address of a reachable node being advertised, a destination address to which the reachable node is to be advertised, a transmitter address of the transmitting node, and a receiver address of a wireless access point to which the wireless advertisement frame is to be received. Also, the wireless access point may be configured to receive the wireless advertisement frame from the network, and in response, transmit a reflected wireless advertisement frame having the source address of the reachable node, the destination address to which the reachable node is to be advertised, a transmitter address of the access point, and a receiver address that indicates the reflected frame is to be accepted by any appropriate receiver excluding the transmitting node.
US09445415B2	Method for transceiving signals between a base station and a relay node in a multiuser multi-antenna wireless communication system, and apparatus for same The present disclosure relates to a method in which a base station transmits signals to a relay node in a multiuser multi-antenna (MIMO) wireless communication system. More particularly, the method includes: allocating one or more antenna ports to one or more relay nodes, respectively; mapping each of a plurality of downlink grant signals for the one or more relay nodes to a preset resource domain from among resource domains corresponding to one of the allocated antenna ports; mapping uplink grant signals or data signals for the one or more relay nodes to the resource domains corresponding to the allocated antenna ports; and transmitting the mapped signals to the one or more relay nodes.
US09445409B2	Method for search space configuration of enhanced physical downlink control channel A method to allocate physical radio resources for both distributed and localized transmission schemes of ePDCCH and configure common and UE-specific search space for UE is provided. In one embodiment, a UE receives a first high-layer information to determine a first set of PRBs. The UE determines a first set of candidate ePDCCHs within the first set of PRBs, wherein one or more candidate ePDCCHs potentially carries DCI intended for the UE. The UE then decodes the first set of candidate ePDCCHs to obtain the DCI intended for the UE. Similar steps are performed for a second set of candidate ePDCCHs potentially carrying DCI intended for the UE. The allocated radio resources of the candidate ePDCCHs may be distributed or localized and constitute either common or UE-specific search space. Blind decoding complexity is reduced.
US09445407B2	Dynamic setting of transmission time in a contention based wireless system In a wireless communications network, access points and connected mobile devices transmit data via a radio frequency spectrum channel. When a device has packets for transmission it must check the channel is available before it can transmit the data. Furthermore there is a Transmission Opportunity (TXOP) parameter which limits the maximum amount of time that a device can transmit packets before it must relinquish the channel so that other devices are not locked out. Each device in the network is capable of updating its own TXOP parameters in order to respond to changes in the level of interference and contention in the surrounding area. In this way devices can transmit for longer periods of time when contention is low, while responding to increased network contention by shortening the TXOP to ensure fair access for all other devices in the network.
US09445404B2	Method, base station, and user equipment for transmitting control channel The present invention provides a method, base station, and user equipment for transmitting a control channel. Grouping is performed, according to an aggregation level of the to-be-transmitted control channel, on sub-blocks in physical resource blocks configured by the base station for the to-be-transmitted control channel, then interleaving is performed, and then candidate control channels are mapped to the interleaved sub-blocks, so that any candidate control channel of the to-be-transmitted control channel is sent on consecutive time-frequency resources as possible, and meanwhile different candidate control channels are on different PRB pairs as possible. In this way, the base station may have better flexibility during actual sending of the ePDCCH, thereby not only achieving a precoding gain and facilitating better transmission of control information, but also achieving a larger scheduling gain.
US09445403B2	Radio communication terminal, base station apparatus, radio communication system and radio communication method The present invention is designed to provide a radio communication terminal, a base station apparatus, a radio communication system and a radio communication method which can reduce the cost to be required for an MTC terminal when the LTE system is employed in the network domain of a machine communication system. A radio communication terminal according to the present invention is a radio communication terminal that performs machine communication via a base station apparatus of a radio communication system that is operated such that a frequency becomes the first band at a maximum, depending on the performance which a communication device supports, and has a receiving section that has receiving performance to be able to support the first band, and that decodes the entire band of the first band at least with respect to a time domain where a downlink control channel is allocated, and a transmission section that has transmission performance to be able to support a second band having a narrower bandwidth than the first band, and that allocates an uplink control channel and an uplink data channel to the second band.
US09445401B2	Method and device for transmitting a control channel mapped to one or more control channel elements A method, an apparatus, and a device for transmitting a control channel are disclosed. The method includes: generating at least one eCCE, and transmitting the control channel through the at least one eCCE, where a process of generating each eCCE specifically includes: determining at least two physical resource block (PRB) pairs for transmitting the control channel, where each PRB pair of the at least two PRB pairs correspond to multiple enhanced resource element groups eREGs and the multiple eREGs have eREG attribute information that is not exactly the same; and selecting each eREG from the multiple eREGs corresponding to each PRB pair, where the selected eREGs have different eREG attribute information, and forming an eCCE with the selected eREGs. Embodiments of the present invention are applied to implement generation of an eCCE according to an eREG, so as to transmit an enhanced control channel through the eCCE.
US09445381B2	Methods and apparatus for downlink PDSCH power setting Methods and apparatus for transmitting power setting information in a downlink Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) in a communication system. In this communication system, a plurality of methods for calculating traffic-to-pilot ratios (T2P) are established. In addition, a mapping scheme between a plurality of overhead signals and a plurality of reference signal (RS) overhead ratios, ηRS, and the plurality of T2P calculation methods is established. A user-specific T2P ratio PB,k/PRS for certain OFDM symbols, a RS overhead ratio ηRS and a calculation method selected from the plurality of T2P calculation methods are assigned to a wireless terminal. Then, an overhead signal corresponding to both of the assigned RS overhead ratio ηRS and the assigned T2P calculation method is selected in accordance with the mapping scheme and is transmitted to the wireless terminal. In addition, the user-specific traffic-to-pilot ratio PB,k/PRS is transmitted to the wireless terminal. The wireless terminal may calculate the traffic-to-pilot ratios across different transmission antennas and different OFDM symbols in dependence upon the received traffic-to-pilot ratio PB,k/PRS, and the RS overhead ratio and the T2P calculation method indicated by the RS overhead signal.
US09445374B2	Control of base station parameters based on mapping of terminal distribution According to one embodiment, a control apparatus includes a terminal information collection unit, a map generator, a terminal information accumulation unit, a parameter calculator, and a parameter setting unit. A map generator generates a map indicating a distribution of the representative terminals. A terminal information accumulation unit accumulates the map generated by the map generator. A parameter calculator sets operating frequencies and transmission powers for the base stations by simulation, empirically estimate, based on past maps accumulated in the terminal information accumulation unit, received powers of the representative terminals generated by the operating frequencies and transmission powers sets by simulation, and determine new operating frequencies.
US09445370B2	Wireless data network switching method and electronic device thereof A wireless data network switching method for an electronic device is disclosed. The wireless data network switching method includes recording a pattern of network data usage of the electronic device during a period of time; determining a user data usage scenario according to the pattern of network data usage; and switching a current wireless network mode to a selected wireless network mode according to the user data usage scenario.
US09445369B2	Mobile phone having a non-telephone function and timing reset unit A mobile phone includes: a microprocessor; a timer; and a memory storing computer-executable instructions for execution by the microprocessor, wherein the computer-executable instructions configure the microprocessor to: execute the non-telephone function; cause the timer to operate during execution of the non-telephone function, and automatically stop the execution of the non-telephone function when the timer indicates an elapse of a predetermined time period; and if the timer is being operated in response to the execution of the non-telephone function, to reset the timer to an initial state when an operation for ending a telephone call is received, wherein when the timer is reset to the initial state, the timer starts to measure the predetermined time period, and the microprocessor stops the execution of the non-telephone function at the elapse of the predetermined time period from when the operation for ending the telephone phone call is received.
US09445366B2	Beacon device and control method thereof A beacon device includes an antenna, a low-power RF (Radio Frequency) device, a light sensor, a microprocessor, and a battery. The low-power RF device generates an RF signal, and the antenna transmits the RF signal outwardly. The light sensor detects intensity of light nearby, and generates a detection signal. The microprocessor controls an operation mode of the low-power RF device according to the detection signal. The battery supplies electric power to the low-power RF device, the light sensor, and the microprocessor.
US09445352B2	Power efficient discovery of LTE-direct relay for out-of-coverage devices Methods, systems, and devices are described for managing wireless communications. In one method, a mobile device may determine to transition to a relay status. The relay status may indicate a capability of the mobile device to function as a relay device between at least one other mobile device and a base station. A peer discovery signal that indicates the relay status may then be transmitted. In another method, a mobile device may broadcast an out-of-coverage status indicator in a first peer discovery signal. A second peer discovery signal may be received from at least one other mobile device. The second peer discovery signal may indicate a capability of the at least one other mobile device to function as a relay device.
US09445335B2	Handover prediction using historical data A method in an apparatus 301 for adapting play out of data packets during a handover of a user equipment (UE) 302 between a first radio network node (RNN) 304 and a second RNN 306. The packets relate to a real-time service application. The UE, first and second RNNs are comprised in a communications system 300. The method comprises generating at least one message to an adaptation control module. The at least one message is generated based on collected historical handover information and on current handover information. The method comprises further, by means of the adaptation control module, adapting the adapting the play out of the packets in dependence of the at least one message such that radio quality degradation in the real-time service application is controlled.
US09445325B2	Method, device and system for reporting signal quality measurement result The present application discloses a method, a device, and a system for reporting a signal quality measurement result, relates to the field of communications, and implements reporting of an adjacent-frequency signal quality measurement result by a terminal. Embodiments of the present application disclose a method for reporting a signal quality measurement result, including: receiving adjacent frequency information, an adjacent-frequency signal quality reporting amount, and a reporting threshold corresponding to the adjacent-frequency signal quality reporting amount from a radio network node; according to the adjacent frequency information, performing measurement to obtain an adjacent-frequency signal quality measurement result; and reporting the adjacent-frequency signal quality measurement result in a preset bit string format to the radio network node. The embodiments of the present application are mainly used for redirection, handover, and cell change operations of a terminal.
US09445320B2	Method and system for automatically creating a neighbor list A method and system for automatically updating a neighbor list associated with a serving base station is disclosed. The method involves receiving a measurement report from a User Equipment (UE) associated with the serving base station, wherein the measurement report comprises at least one relative signal strength measurement between the UE and each of a plurality of neighboring base stations; comparing the at least one relative signal strength measurement between the UE and the plurality of neighboring base stations with a current signal strength between the UE and the serving base station; identifying at least one of the plurality of neighboring base stations having a greater relative signal strength with respect to the UE than the serving base station a predefined number of times based on the comparison; and updating the neighbor list associated with the serving base station with the identified at least one neighboring base stations.
US09445317B2	Interference-protected control message transmission in a mobile communications network For protecting transmission of a control message (60) in a mobile communications network between a first access node (10a) and a user equipment, an indication of at least one protected time-slot for transmitting the control message may be transmitted in response to a need for transmitting the control message (60). The indication is transmitted between the first access node (10a) and a second access node (10b). Transmission of the indication prompts reduction of spectral interference caused by the second access node (10b) during the at least one protected time-slot (30).
US09445308B2	Method for verifying and/or preprocessing data packets and control device set up to carry out the method A method for verifying and/or preprocessing data packets received by a receiving device in a vehicle during wireless vehicle-to-environment communication includes: determining, in the receiving device, relevance of the received data packets; prioritizing, and verification and/or preprocessing according to their relevance, the data packets for the determination of the relevance depending on the distance between a transmitting device and the receiving device; and checking the signature of the transmitting device of the data packets and/or preprocessing the data packets in an order predefined by the prioritizing. The determination of the relevance also depends on the type of data packet and/or the type or position of the transmitting device, taking into account the position of the transmitting device based on another safety-relevant object.
US09445304B2	Inverse service specific access control (SSAC) According to some embodiments, a wireless communication device is operable to perform a process for initiating a session with a radio network node. As a part of the process, the wireless communication device is operable to determine that the radio network node has enabled an access class barring test, determine whether to perform or bypass the access class barring test for the session, and perform or bypass the access class barring test according to the determination.
US09445299B2	System and method of rank adaptation in MIMO communication system An apparatus may include a transmitter arranged to wirelessly transmit channel status reports for channels within a transmission band to a base station and a processor. The apparatus may further include a rank adaptation (RA) module operable on the processor to direct the transmitter to send a multiplicity of sub-band channel quality indicator (CQI) reports, each sub-band CQI report comprising a measurement of a respective sub-band of the transmission band and a multiplicity of rank indicator (RI) reports, where each sub-band CQI report is accompanied by an RI report. The apparatus may further include a digital display arranged to display information transmitted via the base station to the apparatus. Other embodiments are disclosed and claimed.
US09445297B2	Method of anonymously reporting minimization of drive test measurements The present invention provides a method of anonymously reporting minimization of drive test (MDT) measurements. According to the method, a mobility management entity (MME) obtains MDT data anonymity configuration which indicates whether MDT measurements are to be reported anonymously at a type allocation code (TAC) level; sends a TAC of a UE to a trace collection entity (TCE) if the MDT data anonymity configuration indicates MDT measurements are to be reported anonymously at the TAC level; sends an international mobile subscriber identification (IMSI) or an international mobile equipment identity and software version (IMEISV) of the UE to the TCE if the MDT data anonymity configuration indicates other information, e.g. Trace, is adopted for anonymously reporting MDT measurements. The present invention enables an MME to send different identities of a UE to the TCE according to different requirements for anonymity to implement anonymous reporting of MDT measurements.
US09445293B2	Multiple band portable spectrum analyzer A device for detecting RF power information, for use as a stand alone purpose built device, or connectable to an external computing instrument such as a laptop, PDA, or cell phone, or other similarly capable technology. The device scans two or more bands in the wireless frequency and provides output to the user with wireless information about multiple bands of information.
US09445291B2	Method and apparatus for inter-frequency measurements in a communication network In one aspect of the teachings herein, a wireless device operating in a wireless communication network determines the measurement rate to use for making inter-frequency measurements on a given frequency layer, based on a performance requirement specified for that layer. For example, the wireless device uses a higher measurement rate for a frequency layer that has a performance requirement that is higher than the performance requirement specified for another one of the layers on which it is to perform inter-frequency measurements. Correspondingly, in an example scenario, a network node sends measurement configuration information to a targeted device, where that information indicates the layers on which the device is to perform inter-frequency measurements and indicates the performance requirements corresponding to respective ones of those layers. By way of example, the network node may be a base station, a relay, or another wireless device.
US09445288B2	Setting voice and data priority using a registration message Concepts and technologies are disclosed herein for setting voice and data priority using a registration message. According to some embodiments, a processor that executes a voice and data priority application can determine a class of device associated with a communication device, a capability indicator that indicates if the communication device is capable of transmitting data communications and if the communication device is capable of transmitting voice communications, and a priority indicator that indicates if data communications are to be prioritized over voice communications for the communication device. The processor also can generate a voice and data priority indicator that indicates the class of device, the capability indicator, and the priority indicator, and save the voice and data priority indicator at a memory associated with the communication device. The communication device can be configured to generate a registration message that includes the voice and data indicator when registering with a network.
US09445287B2	Electronic device, method and computer-readable medium for sensing spectrum usage in a cognitive radio communication system An electronic device, a method, and a computer-readable medium. The electronic device includes a circuitry configured to receive a radio communication signal for another device, configured to determine, based on the radio communication signal, one or more features that can reflect the difference between an uplink transmission mode and a downlink transmission mode, and configured to judge whether the radio communication signal is for the uplink transmission or the downlink transmission according to the one or more features.
US09445283B2	Channel sounding for frequency division duplex system System and method embodiments are provided for channel sounding in a frequency division duplex (FDD) system. The embodiments enable a transmission point (TP) to determine channel information about a downlink channel from an uplink channel sounding signal received on the downlink channel frequency band during a time window reserved for uplink channel sounding on the downlink channel frequency band. In an embodiment, a method in a controller includes determining with the controller a schedule for an uplink sounding window in a downlink frequency band, wherein the uplink sounding window comprises a transmission window in at least a partial downlink frequency band that is reserved for uplink channel sounding, instructing a TP to signal the schedule to at least one wireless device in a coverage area of the TP, receiving a channel sounding signal in the downlink frequency band, and obtaining downlink channel state information from the channel sounding signal.
US09445276B2	Preventing coexistence interference through smart band selection in MSMA devices Various embodiments leverage the typical manner in which a RAT selects a supported frequency band listed in its acquisition database and the standard communications with its network indicating the supported frequency bands to avoid potential coexistence events with one or more other RATs. In particular, various embodiments include methods for avoiding band interference between RATs operating on a multi-SIM communication device by identifying the frequency bands available to each of the RATs, comparing the identified frequency bands to determine whether any RAT's frequency bands will interfere with one or more other RAT's frequency bands, and in response to determining that there is a possibility of frequency band interference, removing those interfering frequency bands from that RAT's acquisition database. As a result, during standard communications, that RAT will report to its network that it supports only non-interfering frequency bands.
US09445274B2	Method for preventing fraud or misuse when using a specific service of a public land mobile network by a user equipment, subscriber identity module and application program A method for preventing fraud or misuse when a User Equipment uses a service of a public land mobile network. The User Equipment includes a Subscriber Identity Module, The Subscriber Identity Module includes address information used for the service of the public land mobile network. The Subscriber Identity Module includes an application program. The application program includes reference address information. The method includes: determining, by the application program of the Subscriber Identity Module of the User Equipment, that the address information does not correspond to the reference address information; and in response to the determining: blocking, by the application program, the service for the User Equipment and sending an error message to the public land mobile network; or invoking, by the application program, the service for the User Equipment using the reference address information.
US09445271B2	Multi-user use of single-user apps Multi-user use of single-user applications is disclosed. A request to access application data associated with an object identifier may be received in a context of a single-user application. Access may be provided to one or more application data objects associated with the object identifier. The objects may be included in a data set corresponding to user information associated with the context of the application.
US09445269B2	Terminal identity verification and service authentication method, system and terminal Disclosed is a method for terminal identity verification and service authentication. After initiating a service request, the terminal generates a user unique code according to user-specific information in an SIM card, and encrypts a name of the user-specific information, and then transmits the encrypted name of the user-specific information together with the user unique code to a credible cloud control center; a service provider generates a unique code according to its own specific information, and transmits an encrypted name of its own specific information together with the generated unique code to the credible cloud control center; and the credible cloud control center authenticates the terminal and the service provider according to their respective unique codes, and when determining that both of them pass the authentication, transmits a communication code to both of them so that they communicate with each other according to the communication code to complete a current service.
US09445267B2	Bump or close proximity triggered wireless technology Techniques for performing various communications functionality based on detecting a bump condition and/or close proximity between wireless devices. A wireless access point may be configured to automatically initiate an authentication procedure with a User Equipment (UE) device in response to detecting a bump condition and/or detecting a particular proximity between the UE device and the wireless access point. The particular proximity may be detected based on a signal strength of a radio frequency signal. The wireless access point may also be configured to disable a security protocol. A UE device may be configured to participate in an authentication procedure and/or automatically transfer data to the wireless access point in response to detecting a bump condition and/or detecting a particular proximity.
US09445264B2	System and method for establishing a secured connection between an implantable medical device and an external device A system and method are provided for initiating a secured bi-directional communication session with an implantable medical device. The system and method include configuring a pulse generator (PG) device and an external device to establish a communication link there between through a wireless protocol with a defined bonding procedure. The system and method also include transmitting a static identification and dynamic seed from the PG device through a dedicated advertisement channel to the external device and generating a passkey from a pre-defined algorithm based on the dynamic seed and a static identification. Further, the system and method include starting the defined bonding procedure.
US09445263B2	Method for ensuring security and privacy in a wireless cognitive network In some embodiments, authentication, confidentiality, and privacy are enhanced for a wireless network of cognitive radios by encryption of network management and control messages as well as data traffic, thereby protecting information pertaining to node identification, node location, node-sensed incumbent transmissions, CRN frequency channel selections, and such like. During initial network registration, a temporary ID can be issued to a node, and then replaced once encrypted communication has been established. This prevents association of initial, clear-text messages with later encrypted transmissions. Elliptic curve cryptography can be used for mutual authentication between subscribers and the base station. ECC-based implicit digital certificates can be embedded in co-existence beacons used by CRN nodes to coordinate use of frequency channels, thereby preventing denial of service attacks due to transmitting of falsified beacons. Similar certificates can be embedded within identity beacons used to protect certain incumbents from interference by the CRN.
US09445261B2	Method and apparatus for reporting measurement result A method and apparatus for reporting measurement results in a wireless communication system is provided. A user equipment receives a measurement configuration from a base station and logs a measurement result based on the measurement configuration. The user equipment determines whether a consent for reporting privacy information is revoked while logging the measurement result. If the consent is revoked, the user equipment stops logging the measurement result.
US09445255B2	System to provide GSM over distributed mobile networks A system provides GSM service over distributed mobile networks. A Network Area Controller (NAC) allows Global Titles (GT) and Mobile Station Roaming Numbers (MSRN) of the GSM network to be shared within a private GSM network. A processor within the Mobile Switching Center (MSC) of a mobile network transcodes voice data and maps the data to the proper bearer QoS to allow the use of Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) such as Iridium and Inmarsat.
US09445253B2	Methods and apparatus for scanning for mesh nodes Methods and apparatus are provided for scanning for mesh nodes. A communication device monitors a shared communication channel to detect receive window start frames indicating that a mesh node is awake and available to receive data. The scanning device transmits a probe request during the awake window.
US09445250B2	Emergency call placement systems and methods Systems and methods are provided for connecting a caller to an alternate telephone number, such as 9-1-1, when a call to a private response center does not result in immediate assistance, or when it is recognized by the private response center that emergency services are needed at the caller's location. In one example, when the call to the private response center does not connect, the private response center may explicitly reject the call, causing the calling device to take action to call an emergency services telephone number, if needed. In another example, the call to the private response center may reach a customer service representative who recognizes that emergency services are needed. A signal is then sent to the calling device causing the device to call 9-1-1 directly.
US09445245B2	Short message service spam data analysis and detection A method and apparatus for identifying a potential source of SMS spam are disclosed. For example, the method collects a plurality of call detail records, extracts at least one feature from each of the plurality of call detail records, and identifies the potential source of the short message service spam by analyzing the at least one feature that is extracted from each of the plurality of call detail records.
US09445244B1	Techniques to communicate messages utilizing a common telephone number Various embodiments are generally directed to an apparatus, method and other techniques to receive a message directed towards a common telephone number, the common telephone number to enable communications between attendee devices and organizer devices. Embodiments also include techniques to determine whether the message is received from an attendee device or an organizer device based on a telephone number associated with the message and the device that sent the message. Further, in response to determining that the message is received from an attendee device, send the message to one or more organizer devices, and in response to determining that the message is received from an organizer device, send the message to all attendee devices or a specific attendee device based on information in the message.
US09445210B1	Waveform display control of visual characteristics Waveform display control techniques of visual characteristics are described. In one or more examples, a method is described of increasing user efficiency in identifying particular sounds in a waveform display of sound data without listening to the sound data. Sound data received by a computing device is partitioned to form a plurality of sound data time intervals. A signature is computed for each of the plurality of sound data time intervals by the computing device based on features extracted from respective said sound data time intervals. The computed signatures are mapped by the computing device to one or more colors. Output of a waveform in a user interface is controlled by the computing device, in which the waveform represents the sound data and each of the sound data time intervals in the waveform have the mapped one or more colors.
US09445209B2	Mechanism and apparatus for seamless voice wake and speaker verification Technologies are described herein that allow a user to wake up a computing device operating in a low-power state and for the user to be verified by speaking a single wake phrase. Wake phrase recognition is performed by a low-power engine. In some embodiments, the low-power engine may also perform speaker verification. In other embodiments, the mobile device wakes up after a wake phrase is recognized and a component other than the low-power engine performs speaker verification on a portion of the audio input comprising the wake phrase. More than one wake phrases may be associated with a particular user, and separate users may be associated with different wake phrases. Different wake phrases may cause the device transition from a low-power state to various active states.
US09445208B2	Emission of a commencement sound and a conclusion sound Various embodiments associated with a commencement sound and a conclusion sound are described. The commencement sound can be a firing sound, such as a sound of a bullet exiting a rifle. The conclusion sound can be an impact sound, such as a sound of the bullet impacting a concrete wall. These sounds can replicate what it sounds like to have an experience around someone without actually subjecting that person to the experience.
US09445207B2	Bone conduction device including a balanced electromagnetic actuator having radial and axial air gaps A bone conduction device configured to couple to an abutment of an anchor system anchored to a recipient's skull. The bone conduction device includes a vibrating electromagnetic actuator configured to vibrate in response to sound signals received by the bone conduction device, and a coupling apparatus configured to attach the bone conduction device to the abutment so as to impart to the recipient's skull vibrations generated by the vibrating electromagnetic actuator. The vibrating electromagnetic actuator includes a bobbin assembly and a counterweight assembly. Two axial air gaps are located between the bobbin assembly and the counterweight assembly and two radial air gaps are located between the bobbin assembly and the counterweight assembly. No substantial amount of the dynamic magnetic flux passes through the radial air gaps.
US09445194B2	Sound source separating apparatus, sound source separating program, sound pickup apparatus, and sound pickup program There is provided a sound source separating apparatus including a bidirectionality forming unit configured to form a bidirectionality by use of a sound signal picked up by two microphones which are located to be horizontal with respect to the target direction, among three microphones disposed at vertexes of an isosceles right triangle, a unidirectionality forming unit configured to form a unidirectionality by use of a sound signal picked up by two microphones which are located in a same direction as the target direction, among the three microphones, and a target sound extracting unit configured to extract a target sound by performing a spectral subtraction of all outputs from the bidirectionality forming unit and the unidirectionality forming unit from a signal.
US09445183B2	Sound system with ear device with improved fit and sound A system for audio content delivery to an in-the-ear device from a local computing device. Also, a system for audio content delivery to an in-the-ear device from a content delivery network. The in-the-ear device is sized and shaped such that it universally and ergonomically fits into the human ear without slipping out and provides the user with a comfortable fit. The in-the-ear device is secured in the user's ear taking advantage of the natural curvature of the human to provide support and shift the center of gravity from outside the ear to further inside the pinna to prevent the device from slipping out while retaining a high level of comfort.
US09445175B2	Bluetooth headset A wireless headset including a body having an earphone coupling portion; a wireless module provided in the body and configured to wirelessly receive an audio signal from a mobile terminal; a speaker provided in the body; an earphone connected to the body via a cable and configured to be coupled to the body via an earphone coupling portion; a coupling sensor provided the body and configured to sense whether the earphone is coupled to the earphone coupling portion; and a controller configured to output the audio signal received from the mobile terminal via the speaker and not via the earphone, when the coupling sensor senses the earphone is coupled to the earphone coupling portion, and output the audio signal received from the mobile terminal via the earphone and not via the speaker, when the coupling sensor senses the earphone is separated from the earphone coupling portion.
US09445165B2	System and method for an optical coupler In one embodiment, an optical directional coupler includes an input terminal configured to receive an input optical signal and a first coupler optically coupled to the input terminal, where the first coupler has a first coupling length, and where the first coupler is configured to couple a first portion of the input optical signal to a first optical leg and a second optical portion of the input optical signal to a second optical leg. The optical directional coupler also includes the first optical leg, where the first optical leg is configured to phase shift the first portion of the optical signal to produce a first phase shift signal and the second optical leg, where the second optical leg is configured to phase shift the second portion of the optical signal to produce a second phase shift signal, and where the first phase shift signal has a phase difference relative to the second phase shift signal. Additionally, the optical directional coupler includes a second coupler configured to receive the first phase shift signal and the second phase shift signal and to output a first output optical signal to a first output, where the second coupler has a second coupling length, where a crosstalk of the input optical signal to a second output is below −15 dB for both transverse electrical (TE) polarized light and transverse magnetic (TM) polarized over a wavelength range spanning 40 nm.
US09445161B2	Systems and methods for accessing recoverable program content Content delivery systems and methods are operable to provide recoverable program content to a media device. An exemplary embodiment detects an occurrence of a qualifying event, wherein the qualifying event is associated with an unavailable portion of a program of interest; communicates a request to establish a backchannel between the media device and a program content device in response to detecting the occurrence of the qualifying event; communicates a request for a recoverable portion of the program of interest from the media device to the program content device over the backchannel, wherein the requested recoverable portion of the program of interest corresponds to the unavailable portion of the program of interest; and receives at the media device the recoverable portion of the program of interest from the program content device.
US09445159B2	Extended recording time apparatus, systems, and methods An embodiment for recording a channel that is communicating a program of interest identifies a selected program for recording as a program of interest based upon a characteristic of the selected program, the characteristic of the selected program corresponding to at least one characteristic associated with the program of interest, records an advance period corresponding to a period before a beginning of the program of interest, and records a following period corresponding to a period after a conclusion of the program of interest.
US09445146B2	Multimedia arrangement The invention relates to a multimedia arrangement comprising a remote control having a keypad with only six control buttons. All functions of the multimedia device can be controlled via three menu levels, an object group being selectable in the first menu level, an object being selectable in the second menu level, and an action to be performed with the object being selectable in the third. Elements of the object groups, objects, and actions are displayed in fields on the display device in a vertical column and a horizontal line, the column and the line intersecting in a focus field. The elements of the fields can be moved by the control buttons in the fixed focus field, and can be activated there by a selection button. Selection and arrangement of the elements is done by a user database in the multimedia device depending on data determined by an identification device of the remote control.
US09445138B2	Broadcast content via over the top delivery Systems, methods, and receiver devices enable broadcasters with restricted content license areas (e.g., Designated Market Areas (“DMAs”) to distribute content via Over the Top (“OTT”) IP networks. Embodiments enable client reporting and authentication as well as broadcast content encryption. In an embodiment, information from the client may be reported back to the broadcasters, such as a view history/use report. In an embodiment, hand off between DMAs may be enabled. In an embodiment, local advertisement insertion in network content may be enabled. Embodiments may enable Multicast-Broadcast Single Frequency Network (“MBSFN”) operation across DMA boundaries.
US09445129B2	Image coding method and image decoding method An image coding method for coding an input image per block to generate a coded image signal includes: predicting for each prediction unit which is an area obtained by partitioning a target block to generate a prediction image of the target block; comparing a transform unit which is an area obtained by partitioning the target block and is a processing unit for frequency transform with the prediction unit, to detect part of a boundary of the prediction unit, the boundary being located within the transform unit; performing boundary filtering on the detected part of the boundary in the generated prediction image; calculating a difference between a filtered prediction image and the input image to generate a difference image of the target block; and performing frequency transform on the difference image for each transform unit.
US09445122B2	Encoding apparatus, encoding method, and a computer-readable recording medium An encoding method includes encoding a difference between an input pixel included in input image data and a predicted pixel obtained by predicting the input pixel, storing a decoded pixel obtained by decoding the encoded difference and adding the predicted pixel to the decoded difference, in a case where the input image data is compound image data including different images with a line period of at least two lines, determining a direction from a decoded pixel that is included in a second decoded pixel, a third decoded pixel, and fourth decoded pixels stored and that has high correlation with a first decoded pixel, toward the first decoded pixel as a prediction direction, and selecting a decoded pixel in accordance with the determined prediction direction, and output the decoded pixel as the predicted pixel.
US09445120B2	Moving picture coding method, moving picture coding apparatus, moving picture decoding method, moving picture decoding apparatus and moving picture coding and decoding apparatus By the moving picture coding method and the moving picture decoding method, it is possible to improve coding efficiency. The moving picture coding apparatus includes a merge block candidate calculation unit that (i) specifies merge block candidates at merge mode, by using colpic information such as motion vectors and reference picture index values of neighbor blocks of a current block to be coded and a motion vector and the like of a collocated block of the current block which are stored in a colPic memory, and (ii) generates a combined merge block by using the merge block candidates.
US09445113B2	Methods and apparatus for parallel implementations of 4:4:4 coding There are provided methods and apparatus for parallel implementations of 4:4:4 coding. A video encoder for encoding video signal data for an image block includes an encoder for encoding all color components of the image block by selecting a common block partition and a common spatial prediction mode. The common block partition and the common spatial prediction mode are selected by concurrently evaluating all of the color components in parallel.
US09445112B2	Secure transcoding of video data A secure transcoder assembly features a secure data path where the related crypting and coding functions are secured in the secure data path. More specifically, during transcoding the ingress (received) encrypted video data is decrypted and copied from application memory (that is accessible to the application processor) to secure memory (that is inaccessible to the application processor) by security processor(s). Once in the secured memory, this video data is transcoded. The video data, now in its transcoded form, is re-encrypted by the security processor(s) during the transfer back to application memory for egress (continued transmission). The mode for the re-encrypting may be managed by the application processor via a crypto API, and the application processor may further feature an opaque handle on the data when it is passed to the secure region.
US09445103B2	Methods and apparatus for adaptively choosing a search range for motion estimation Systems, methods, and computer program products that can be used to determine a search range (SR) when performing motion estimation at, for example, a video encoder or decoder. Determining a motion vector for a current block during motion estimation may involve searching within a search window that may reside in a reference frame, or in a previously decoded block that spatially or temporally neighbors the current block. Such a search seeks a motion vector that minimizes a metric, such as a sum of absolute differences between corresponding blocks of reference frames. A motion vector that minimizes such a metric may be a good candidate for use in motion estimation. The search may become more efficient if a search range is determined such that the extent of the search is bounded. A search range may be determined at the block level or at the picture level.
US09445100B2	Apparatus for decoding chroma image using luma quantization Provided is a method that derives a chroma intra prediction mode of a prediction unit, determines a size of a current chroma block using luma transform size information, generates a chroma prediction block of the current chroma block using the chroma intra prediction mode, generates a chroma residual block of the current chroma block using the chroma intra prediction mode and a chroma quantization parameter, generates a chroma reconstructed block adding the chroma prediction block and the chroma residual block, and the chroma quantization parameter is generated using a luma quantization parameter and information indicating the relationship between the luma quantization parameter and the chroma quantization parameter. Therefore, the coding efficiency is improved by adjusting the chroma quantization parameter per picture. Also, the amount of bits for transmitting the luma and chroma quantization parameters is reduced by encoding the luma quantization parameter using neighboring luma quantization parameters.
US09445097B2	Image decoding method using intra prediction mode An image decoding method is provided which includes reconstructing an intra prediction mode group indicator and a prediction mode index of a current block, constructing a first group using valid intra prediction modes of left and top blocks, and determining the intra prediction mode corresponding to the prediction mode index and the intra prediction mode group indicator. Therefore, by causing the first group to include modes having a high possibility of being equal to the prediction mode of the current block on the basis of the valid intra prediction modes of the left and top blocks of the current block and determining the intra prediction mode group indicator and the prediction mode index to be encoded using the first group, it is possible to reduce an amount of information of the intra prediction mode to be encoded.
US09445096B2	Methods, devices and systems for parallel video encoding and decoding A method for decoding a video bitstream is disclosed. The method comprises: entropy decoding a first portion of a video bitstream, wherein first portion of video bitstream is associated with a video frame, thereby producing a first portion of decoded data; entropy decoding a second portion of video bitstream, wherein second portion of video bitstream is associated with video frame, thereby producing a second portion of decoded data, wherein entropy decoding second portion of video bitstream is independent of entropy decoding first portion of video bitstream; and reconstructing a first portion of video frame associated with video bitstream using first portion of decoded data and second portion of decoded data.
US09445090B2	Explicit way for signaling a collocated picture for high efficicency video coding (HEVC) using reference list0 and list1 A system is provided for determining a collocated reference picture to enable encoding and decoding of a current picture for high efficiency video coding (HEVC). The collocated picture is identified by accessing syntax that can include an index for a list0 and a list1, a reference picture set number indicating the number of pictures in list0 and list1, and a flag indicating if the collocated picture is in list0 or list1. The system can further use slice type to determine if both list0 and list1 should be accessed.
US09445084B2	Computer-readable storage medium having stored therein display control program, display control apparatus, display control system, and display control method A virtual object placed in a three-dimensional virtual space and a user interface are stereoscopically displayed on an upper LCD of a game apparatus. An image used for adjusting a display position of the user interface in the depth direction is displayed on a lower LCD. A user adjusts a UI adjustment slider by using a touch pen to adjust the parallax of the user interface. This allows the adjustment of the parallax of the user interface separately from the parallax of the three-dimensional virtual space, and thereby the depth perception of the user interface can be adjusted.
US09445081B1	Method and system of 3D image capture with dynamic cameras Techniques related to 3D image capture with dynamic cameras.
US09445077B2	Method and apparatus for processing broadcast signal for 3-dimensional broadcast service The disclosed apparatus for receiving a broadcast signal including 3D content comprises a receiving unit configured to receive a broadcast signal including video data for 3D content, a decoder configured to decode the video data for the 3D content from the received broadcast signal, a signaling processor configured to parse depth information from the decoded video data, a graphic engine configured to determine a depth for displaying an on screen display, OSD, of a receiver, a formatter configured to form images including the OSD located at the depth for the 3D content, and a display unit configured to display the images, wherein the depth information includes partition information indicating partitioning pattern of an image, several regions of the image are defined by the partition information, wherein the depth information further includes max disparity information specifying maximum disparity value in the image and min disparity information specifying the minimum disparity value in a region of the several regions.
US09445071B2	Method and apparatus generating multi-view images for three-dimensional display A method and apparatus for generating multi-view images are provided. An error suspicious area may be detected from a reference view image. A foreground-first image may be generated by foreground-first warping including regarding the error suspicious area as a foreground, and a background-first image may be generated by background-first warping including regarding the error suspicious area as a background. The foreground-first image and the background-first image may be blended, and an output view image in a predetermined viewpoint may be generated.
US09445065B1	Multiple light system blending A display system for blending two (or more) light systems. The system includes an object with an outer surface. The display system includes a light source projecting ultraviolet (UV) light onto the outer surface and a light source projecting (concurrently in many applications) content onto the outer surface with visible light. Further, the display system includes a light-blending element on the outer surface for concurrently receiving the UV light and the visible light. The light-blending element includes a background layer reflecting the visible light and a foreground layer covering at least a portion of the background layer and producing light in response to the receiving of the UV light. The foreground layer includes black light paint that fluoresces to produce the light in response to the UV light. The background layer includes a layer of material that is non-fluorescent in response to the UV light such a non-fluorescent white paint.
US09445063B2	Fiber scanning projector A fiber scanning projector includes a light source comprising a plurality of monochromatic light sources, a modulator providing a modulation signal according to image information to the light source, a scanner scanning a screen with a light emitted from the light source and controlled according to the modulation signal, the scanner including a fiber bundle and an actuator which 2-axis-drives the fiber bundle, and a synchronization controller synchronizing driving of the actuator and driving of the modulator.
US09445051B1	Sender side video telephony downgrade In an example, a method of processing data includes, in a video telephony session between a local device and a remote device, where the video telephony session includes at least one video connection between the local device and the remote device, identifying, by the local device, degraded playback of video data at the remote device. The method also includes, in response to identifying the degraded playback, terminating, by the local device, a video connection of the at least one video connection.
US09445041B2	Moving image data processing apparatus and moving image data processing method A moving image data processing apparatus receives input of first and second image data with a first and second frame rate respectively. The apparatus includes; an input frame rate specification unit that specifies the first and the second frame rate of the moving image data; an output frame rate specification unit that specifies output frame rates of the first and second moving image data; a playback speed specification unit that specifies same playback speed for the first and second moving image data; a frame rate conversion unit that changes a frame rate of the first moving image data based on the first frame rate, the output frame rate, and the playback speed, and changes a frame rate of the second moving image data based on the second frame rate, the output frame rate, and the playback speed; and an output unit that outputs the changed moving image data.
US09445040B2	Method and system of real time delivery of aroma The present invention is a device that provides aroma sensory information while viewing a program from a multimedia device. The aroma signals are merged in real-time with the video and sound signals into a novel encoded digital stream. The aroma scents are stored in the device and are activated by the novel digital stream broadcast signal. Once activated, the scents are dispersed into the viewing room.
US09445030B2	Radiation image capturing apparatus and method of driving the same A radiation image capturing apparatus, comprising a sensor configured to monitor an irradiating dose of radiation, a switch configured output a sensor signal from the sensor, a readout unit configured to read out the sensor signal via a signal line, and a controlling unit, wherein the controlling unit performs first control of repeatedly performing, while the sensor is irradiated, a series of operations including a first operation of setting the switch to a conductive state and a second operation of setting the switch to a non-conductive state, second control of reading out the sensor signal in the first operation as a first signal and a potential of the signal line in the second operation as a second signal, and third control of calculating the irradiating dose of radiation based on the first signal and the second signal.
US09445027B2	Image sensors with column memory repair circuitry An image sensor may include an array of image pixels arranged in rows and columns. Each image pixel arranged along a column may be coupled to a pixel column line. Each pixel column line may be coupled to column memory circuitry via a respective analog-to-digital converter circuit. The column memory circuitry may include multiple column memory circuits, including a spare column memory circuit. If none of the column memory circuits are defective, the spare column memory circuit is idle. If one of the column memory circuits is defective, the spare column memory circuit is engaged to bypass the defective column memory circuit. Configured in this way, the column memory circuitry is provided with column-wise memory repair capabilities.
US09445025B2	System, method, and product for imaging probe arrays with small feature sizes An embodiment of a method for resolving features on a probe array is described that, comprises acquiring a plurality of micro-shifted images of a region of a probe array; reconstructing an image of the probe array using the micro-shifted images; and deriving intensity values for one or more probe features disposed on the probe array from the reconstructed image.
US09445021B1	Fixed pattern noise correction with compressed gain and offset A method of pixel correction is disclosed. The method generally includes the steps of (A) calibrating a per-pixel correction model of a sensor at a plurality of different illumination levels, (B) generating a plurality of pixel values from the sensor in response to an optical signal and (C) generating a plurality of corrected values by applying the per-pixel correction model to the pixel values.
US09445009B2	Image processing apparatus capable of generating composite video image, control method therefor, and storage medium storing control program therefor An image processing apparatus capable of obtaining a sufficient HDR effect while keeping smoothness of an appearance of a video image in an HDR composition process. A first computation unit finds a first composition ratio of frames of images that are continuously taken at mutually different exposures based on luminance of at least one of the frames of images. A second computation unit finds a second composition ratio of the frames of images based on the luminance difference between the frames of images. A third computation unit finds a third composition ratio as a final composition ratio for compositing the frames of images based on the first composition ratio, the second composition ratio, and shutter speed at a time of taking the frames of images. A composition unit generates one frame of an image by compositing the frames of images based on the third composition ratio.
US09445003B1	Systems and methods for synthesizing high resolution images using image deconvolution based on motion and depth information Systems and methods for synthesizing high resolution images using image deconvolution and depth information in accordance embodiments of the invention are disclosed. In one embodiment, an array camera includes a processor and a memory, wherein an image deconvolution application configures the processor to obtain light field image data, determine motion data based on metadata contained in the light field image data, generate a depth-dependent point spread function based on the synthesized high resolution image, the depth map, and the motion data, measure the quality of the synthesized high resolution image based on the generated depth-dependent point spread function, and when the measured quality of the synthesized high resolution image is within a quality threshold, incorporate the synthesized high resolution image into the light field image data.
US09445001B2	Method of reproducing multiple shutter sound and electric device thereof A method and electronic device reproducing a multiple shutter sound that reproduces a same shutter sound or a series of different shutter sounds during the period where an image is being processed by transmitting two or more interrupts to a controller by an image signal processor and an electronic device thereof. The repetitive shutter sounds can indicate to a user that the image is still being processed, so that the user does not move the camera and affect the capture of the image. The method of reproducing a multiple shutter sound includes: receiving a command for shooting a photograph; processing an image in response to the command; and transmitting at least two interrupt to a controller such that the shutter sound is reproduced at least twice while processing the image.
US09444988B2	Fast image sensor for body protection gear or equipment An image sensor for body protection gear and equipment for monitoring and detection of impacts from surrounding object. The image sensor comprises multiple image processors to record images, use images to estimate and calculate environment parameters, and a controller to process the data.The controller utilizes the received information from image processors to estimate and calculate various environmental parameters which can be used to activate certain functions and devices.
US09444987B2	Interactive imaging system and remote controller applied thereto An interactive imaging system includes an image system and a remote controller. The image system includes at least one reference beacon, a receiving unit and a host. The at least one reference beacon emits light in an emission pattern. The receiving unit is configured to receive a packet data. The host controls an enable time of the at least one reference beacon according to the packet data. The remote controller includes an image sensor and a transmission unit. The image sensor captures the light emitted from the at least one reference beacon at a sampling period. The transmission unit sends the packet data corresponding to the sampling period of the image sensor.
US09444984B2	Device having a camera unit The invention relates to a device, comprising a camera unit, which is used to record images of the exterior area of a motor vehicle, and a cover element, which can be moved from a closed position to an open position by means of a drive, wherein the camera unit is behind the cover element and inaccessible from outside in the closed position of the cover element and images can be recorded in the open position of the cover element. For this purpose, the cover element has an outer surface facing away from the camera unit, and the drive interacts with a mechanism in such a way that the outer surface is always in the exterior area of the motor vehicle in each position of the cover element during the movement of the cover element between the closed position and the open position.
US09444981B2	Portable structured light measurement module/apparatus with pattern shifting device incorporating a fixed-pattern optic for illuminating a subject-under-test A surface measurement module for 3-D image acquisition of a subject-under-inspection. The module having: (a) a casing to house a pattern shifting device having a fixed-pattern optic through which light from a light source is passed, an output of the pattern shifting device being directed at a polarizing beam splitter and the polarized output of the splitter directed through a lens assembly comprising at least one lens element; (b) a reflector to direct the polarized output exiting the lens assembly, to illuminate a surface of the subject-under-inspection; (c) a scattered light illumination off the surface is directed back through the lens assembly for capture by an image sensor; and (d) the casing also housing the polarizing beam splitter, the lens assembly, and the image sensor. The output of the fixed-pattern optic comprises a multi-frequency pattern. The pattern shifting device may be a linear or rotating type.
US09444974B2	Printing system for printing patches having different length to measure gradation values According to the present invention, patch data is printed in such a manner that the length of a low-optical-density patch is small and the length of a high-optical-density patch is large. In addition, the measurement is performed by a sensor that measures at a constant scanning speed. Therefore, SN of a dark patch having a high optical density is improved, and a patch chart can be measured in a short time.
US09444971B2	Image processing system, image processing method, and image processing program There are disclosed an image processing system which can scale up an image while maintaining a quality of the image, an image processing method, and an image processing program. An image processing system 1 includes a separating section 12 which separates an image frame into a plurality of partial regions on the basis of characteristics; a dividing section 14 which divides the plurality of partial regions into a plurality of subdivided pixels; an integrating section 16 which generates an integrated frame in which the plurality of partial regions including the plurality of subdivided pixels are integrated; a difference calculating section 18 which calculates a difference in pixel value between one pixel of a plurality of pixels obtained by dividing the integrated frame and the other pixel selected on the basis of a spatial frequency of each of the plurality of pixels; a quantizing section 20 which quantizes the other pixel on the basis of the difference; a compressed data generating section 22 which generates compressed image data including the other pixel quantized in the quantizing section 20; and a decoding section 24 which decodes the compressed image data.
US09444964B1	Method and apparatus for scanning an image A method for reducing electromagnetic emissions by an image scanner comprises cyclically dithering a frequency of a clock signal of the image scanner by repeated dither cycles, determining a phase of the dither cycle when a scan pass of a page of a document commences; and commencing all subsequent scan passes of the page of the document at a particular phase shift from the determined phase of the dither cycle.
US09444959B2	Image reading device and image forming apparatus including the same An image reading device includes a scanner casing fixed to an upper side of a body frame of an image forming apparatus body, a document pressing member that covers an upper surface of the scanner casing, a leg part provided to be movable with respect to the scanner casing in a vertical direction, a stationary part fixed to an upper end of the leg part, a rotating part connected rotatably to the stationary part via a hinge shaft and supporting the document pressing member, a holding mechanism to hold an opening angle of the document pressing member, and cylindrical parts, passing through the scanner casing in the vertical direction, and having lower end portions fixed to the body frame. The leg part is inserted into the cylindrical part from an upper end opening of the cylindrical part and inclined to a side of the document pressing member.
US09444957B2	Portable scanning device A portable scanning device includes a docking seat, a handheld scanner, a positioning unit, a document-feeding unit and a motor. The docking seat has a receiving groove, a feeding groove, a document inlet, and a document outlet. The positioning unit is mounted to the docking seat for retaining the handheld scanner in the receiving groove. The document-feeding unit includes a loading subunit for conveying a document from the feeding groove to the handheld scanner through the document inlet, a discharging subunit for discharging the document via the document outlet, and a regulating subunit for continuous document-feeding action when a plurality of the documents are scanned. The motor is for actuating movement of the document-feeding unit.
US09444952B2	Image reading device A magnet is disposed on one side of a conveyance plane in which a sheet-like medium to be read is conveyed and generates a magnetic field in a direction perpendicular to the conveyance plane. A magnetoresistive effect element is disposed between the magnet and the conveyance plane, and detects an intensity variation in a conveyance direction component of the magnetic field in a magnetic reading area. An imaging optical system and a light receiver are disposed on the side opposite to the magnet side with respect to the conveyance plane. The imaging optical system forms an image of an optical reading area on the light receiver, the optical reading area including at least a portion in the conveyance direction of the magnetic reading area of the conveyance plane.
US09444947B2	Method and system for differential charging Method and system for differential charging. The present disclosure describes a technique that determines a charging context for charging messages from one or more application servers that are related to a blended service, receives a charging policy related based at least on the charging context, and generates a charging message based on the charging policy and/or charging context.
US09444939B2	Treatment processing of a plurality of streaming voice signals for determination of a responsive action thereto Streaming voice signals, such as might be received at a contact center or similar operation, are analyzed to detect the occurrence of one or more unprompted, predetermined utterances. The predetermined utterances preferably constitute a vocabulary of words and/or phrases having particular meaning within the context in which they are uttered. Detection of one or more of the predetermined utterances during a call causes a determination of response-determinative significance of the detected utterance(s). Based on the response-determinative significance of the detected utterance(s), a responsive action may be further determined. Additionally, long term storage of the call corresponding to the detected utterance may also be initiated. Conversely, calls in which no predetermined utterances are detected may be deleted from short term storage. In this manner, the present invention simplifies the storage requirements for contact centers and provides the opportunity to improve caller experiences by providing shorter reaction times to potentially problematic situations.
US09444934B2	Speech to text training method and system An illustrative method includes receiving, at a processor of a computing device, an audio voice signal of a first call participant during a first call, where the first call is a communication across a communication network. The method further includes determining an identity of the first call participant and determining a speech to text profile associated with the identity of the first call participant, where the speech to text profile includes at least one rule for transcribing a word in the audio voice signal into text. The method further includes generating a text output, where the text output is a transcribed version of a plurality of words identified in the audio voice signal of the first call participant. At least one of the plurality of words identified is identified using the at least one rule.
US09444931B2	Method, device, and system for connecting to a communication device A method and apparatus include a first server that communicates with a second server to cause a call back request to be communicated to an endpoint so that the endpoint can initiate a call back connection with the first server or a third server. Such a call back connection may occur near real time or in substantially real time so that updates can be supplied to an endpoint running an application supported by the server quickly and efficiently. The endpoint may register with the second server such that the second server is able to utilize notification messages for providing call back request information to the endpoint to advise the endpoint of a call back request.
US09444922B2	Information provision method and apparatus of mobile terminal An event-triggered contact information provision apparatus and method of a mobile terminal is provided for presenting contact information of a person, who has triggered an event, around the contact object representing the person on a specific screen. An information provision method of a mobile terminal preferably includes detecting an event; tracing a contact object associated with triggering the event; and presenting contact information of a person triggering the event around at least a portion of the contact object on a display of the mobile terminal.
US09444913B2	Multi-ring reliable messaging system A multi-ring reliable messaging system is formed by interconnecting a plurality of token rings via a pair of gateways that includes an active gateway that is configured to communicate with the token rings and a standby gateway that also is configured to communicate with the token rings. The active gateway receives an original message via a first token ring, generates an associated message for a second token ring based on the original message, and propagates the associated message toward the second token ring. The active gateway supports total order delivery of messages within the token rings and causal-order delivery of messages between the token rings. The standby gateway monitors for original and associated messages received via the token rings in a manner for preventing loss of messages when the active gateway fails.
US09444912B1	Virtual mobile infrastructure for mobile devices A virtual mobile infrastructure for mobile devices includes mobile client devices and a server computer running remote mobile operating systems. The remote mobile operating systems share the same kernel, and are each implemented on a container. A mobile client device running a mobile operating system, which may be the same as or different from the remote mobile operating systems, may access one of the many remote mobile operating systems on the server computer.
US09444902B2	Method and device for controlling peripheral devices via a social networking platform A method and device for transmitting data between a peripheral device and a user device via a Bluetooth Low Energy connection, comprising: at the peripheral device: transmitting data to the user device in a simulated data stream, the transmitting comprising: identifying a first Bluetooth characteristic for writing data, the first Bluetooth characteristic having been exposed by the peripheral device to the user device; dividing a data packet into a sequence of data frames plus zero or one remainder, each data frame having a respective size equal to a predetermined data size of the identified first Bluetooth characteristic; and for each of the sequence of data frames: writing the data frame to a respective value for the identified first Bluetooth characteristic; and pushing the identified first Bluetooth characteristic for reading by the user device.
US09444897B1	Quality of experience collaboration between mobile devices At a mobile device, a location is predicted where the device will operate at a future time. A first data is obtained, the first data having been produced by a second device while being present at the location at a first time. Using a processor at the mobile device, the first data is analyzed to conclude that a type of network used by the mobile device is unusable at the location. A type of content that should be accessible from the mobile device at the location at the future time is identified. A content of the type of content is saved locally on the mobile device, wherein the saved content is accessible from the mobile device at the future time.
US09444891B2	Data migration in a storage network In one example, a method may include assigning a time requirement for a transmission of data from a first data storage node to a second data storage node, assigning a maximum channel transmission rate for each of a maximum number of available transmission channels based on predetermined parameters of a transmission channel, and transmitting the data in accordance with the time requirement and the maximum number of available transmission channels.
US09444890B2	Switch-based data tiering Embodiments include a method, system, and computer program product for allocating data to storage in a network. A data item accessed by a server in the network is identified. A controller classifies the identified data item based on at least one of: a frequency of access requests for the data item by the server and an access time associated with providing the data item to the server once the server requests the data item. A memory of a switch in the network is selected for storing the data item based on the classification of the data item. The controller causes the data item to be stored in the memory of the switch, from which the data item is accessed by the server upon request.
US09444881B2	Method, system, and apparatus for exchanging data between client devices Systems and methods for exchanging data between two client devices are disclosed. A method includes, at a computer system, obtaining, from a first client device, a first data acquisition request, wherein the first data acquisition request includes (i) a device identifier identifying a second client device distinct from the first client device, and (ii) a search parameter identifier; and identifying the second client device, from a plurality of client devices, in accordance with the device identifier. In some implementations, a method further includes, issuing a second data acquisition request to the second device, the second data acquisition request including the search parameter identifier; obtaining, from the second client device, a search parameter associated with the search parameter identifier; obtaining one or more search results associated with the search parameter; and providing at least one search result in the one or more search result to the first client device for display to a user of the first client device.
US09444873B2	Website compatibility shims Various embodiments provide compatibility shims that can be utilized by a web browser to dynamically change web browser platform features per domain or website. The compatibility shims can be deployed to the web browser and updated in a manner similar to that of a webpage. In one or more embodiments, the compatibility shims can be utilized to change a browser's behavior and/or the manner in which the browser represents itself per domain or website. Further, the compatibility shims can enable the web browser to dynamically remove or change support for web platform features. In addition, in at least some embodiments, users can apply their own compatibility shims to their own list of websites or webpages.
US09444870B2	Adaptive video white spot learning and user bandwidth delivery control system A system and method that utilize a learning system to maintain a set of geographical locations indicating an area where network data coverage is poor. When it is determined that a client device is moving towards such an area, the client is forced or instructed to switch to a lower delivery bitrate for video segments in order to force the client's Adaptive Bit Rate (ABR) playback buffer to fill itself with enough low-quality video segments to enable the client to cross the area without video playback interruption. Thus, the client mobile device may be preemptively forced to choose the lowest bitrate specified in a manifest file for the delivered video segments as the bitrate for downloading video segments when approaching the poor coverage area. Hence, the client device can maintain a minimum level of Quality of Service (QoS) when moving through network areas with poor data coverage.
US09444869B2	Associating unique identifiers of primary and enriching content A unified system of unique identifiers is used to match enrichment content with primary content being delivered by subscribers, e.g. broadcasters, in different markets, market segments, etc. Songs, video, advertisements, or other content from multiple different content publishers or databases, each of which may be assigned identifiers using different identification systems, are assigned a unified, unique identifier. The unique identifiers are also mapped to content identifiers used by subscribers. When subscribers provide primary content, for example by broadcasting the content to end users, enrichment content is matched to the unified, unique identifier associated with the content, and appropriate enrichment data and content are sent to the subscriber for distribution along with the primary content.
US09444868B2	System to communicate media A system for communicating media is disclosed. Such a system may include, for example, a media broken into a plurality of independent segment files that may represent sequential portions of the media. One of the segment files can be encoded to have a format that is different than the encoded format of another one of the segment files. The formats may be chosen to allow outputting of information in the segments at different rates. A list may include network addresses for the segment files, and a content delivery system may be deployed to distribute media content to remotely located requesting devices by sending the segment files in response to requests for the segment files.
US09444867B2	Systems and methods for data synchronization in a network application A computer receives user input events associated with a network application. Each user input event corresponds to a respective image frame of the network application and the user input events include at least one remote user input event from a remote source. The computer generates and updates response data from the respective image frames associated with the user input events to a current image frame of the network application. In some embodiments, the user input events are all from a local user of the computer. The computer also generates and updates synchronization data from the respective image frame associated with the at least one remote user input event to the current image frame of the network application. Finally, the computer replaces the response data with the synchronization data.
US09444854B2	Session initiation protocol (SIP) router Systems and methods for a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) router are described. In one aspect, the SIP router receives a SIP INVITE for an incoming call to a target mobile subscriber. Responsive to receiving the SIP INVITE, the SIP router identifies, via a Send Routing Information for Short Message (SRI/SM) request to a Home Location Register, a first address of a serving switch in a circuit-switched mobile network; a mobile telephony device associated with the target mobile subscriber is currently location-updated on the serving switch. The SIP router maps the first address to a second address for the serving switch; the second address being a SIP address. Using the SIP address, the SIP router sends the received SIP INVITE to a SIP interface of the serving switch. The serving switch being configured to process the received SIP INVITE and the incoming call to the target mobile subscriber.
US09444846B2	Methods and apparatuses for trust computation Embodiments of a method are disclosed for computing trust index among multiple entities associated with a resource marketplace. The method includes receiving multiple inputs including interaction attributes, attribute importance factors, references to databases, and multiple entities associated with the resource marketplace. The method also includes creating a weighted-interaction graph based on the received inputs. The weighted-interaction graph includes multiple vertices representing the entities. The method further includes performing a topology-specific analysis of the weighted-interaction graph. The method furthermore includes computing Euclidean distances for each pair of vertices in the weighted-interaction graph based on the performed analysis. The method also includes determining a trust index for a first entity in the received multiple entities based on the computed Euclidean distances. The trust index includes ranking of at least one of the multiple entities with respect to the first entity. The ranking is inversely proportional to the computed Euclidean distances.
US09444844B2	Malicious mobile code runtime monitoring system and methods Protection systems and methods provide for protecting one or more personal computers (“PCs”) and/or other intermittently or persistently network accessible devices or processes from undesirable or otherwise malicious operations of Java TN applets, ActiveX™ controls, JavaScript™ scripts, Visual Basic scripts, add-ins, downloaded/uploaded programs or other “Downloadables” or “mobile code” in whole or part. A protection engine embodiment provides for monitoring information received, determining whether received information does or is likely to include executable code, and if so, causes mobile protection code (MPC) to be transferred to and rendered operable within a destination device of the received information. An MPC embodiment further provides, within a Downloadable-destination, for initiating the Downloadable, enabling malicious Downloadable operation attempts to be received by the MPC, and causing (predetermined) corresponding operations to be executed in response to the attempts.
US09444838B2	Pre-processing system for minimizing application-level denial-of-service in a multi-tenant system Denial-of-service attacks are prevented or mitigated in a cloud compute environment, such as a multi-tenant, collaborative SaaS system. This is achieved by providing a mechanism by which characterization of “legitimate” behavior is defined for tenant applications or application classes, preferably along with actions to be taken in the event a request to execute an application is anticipated to exceed defined workflow limits. A set of application profiles are generated. Typically, a profile comprises information, such as a request defined by one or more request variables, one or more “constraints,” one or more “request mappings,” and one or more “actions.” A constraint is a maximum permitted workload for the application. A request mapping maps a request variable to the constraint, either directly or indirectly. The profile information defines how a request is mapped to a workload to determine whether the request is in policy or, if not, what action to take.
US09444830B2	Web server/web application server security management apparatus and method A security management apparatus and method for a web server/web application server is provided. The security management apparatus includes a connection state table storage unit for, as a web client accesses a web server/web application server, storing connection state information, an access time, and a connection policy. A connection state information inspection unit inspects whether current connection state information is present in connection state information of the connection state table storage unit in which the connection policy is set to blocking. If current connection state information is not present, a web session reuse attack determination unit determines whether a current connection is a web session reuse attack. If the current connection is not the web session reuse attack, an attack pattern analysis unit analyzes whether an attack pattern is present. A blocking unit blocks a connection between the web client and the web server/web application server.
US09444829B1	Systems and methods for protecting computing resources based on logical data models A computer-implemented method for protecting computing resources based on logical data models may include (1) receiving, from a security agent, log data that specifies details of a security event detected by the security agent, (2) creating an instance of a data structure for a logical data model that describes a path cycle of a security threat, (3) populating at least one field of the data structure for the logical data model with a completed value, (4) populating at least one other field of the data structure for the logical data model with a value of incomplete based on a completed value for the other field being unavailable, and (5) performing a security action based on an analysis of the instance of the data structure for the logical data model. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.
US09444828B2	Network intrusion detection apparatus and method using Perl compatible regular expressions-based pattern matching technique A network intrusion detection apparatus and method that perform Perl Compatible Regular Expressions (PCRE)-based pattern matching on the payloads of packets using a network processor equipped with a Deterministic Finite Automata (DFA) engine. The network intrusion detection apparatus includes a network processor core for receiving packets from a network, and transmitting payloads of the received packets to a Deterministic Finite Automata (DFA) engine. A detection rule converter converts a PCRE-based detection rule, preset to detect an attack packet, into a detection rule including a pattern to which only PCRE grammar corresponding to the DFA engine is applied. The DFA engine performs PCRE pattern matching on the payloads of the packets based on the detection rule converted by the detection rule converter.
US09444825B2	Continuous user authentication Technologies are generally described for authenticating a user account. In some examples, a method performed under control of a server may include providing a communication service to an end device; receiving, from the end device, a text input, while providing the communication service; and authenticating a user account associated with the end device, based on the received text input, while providing the communication service.
US09444824B1	Methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for implementing adaptive levels of assurance in a financial management system Disclosed are methods, systems, and articles of manufacture for implementing adaptive levels of authentication assurance according to sensitivity or criticality of information accessed or actions performed in a financial management system to enhance user experience and usability of the financial management system while providing adequate security to safeguard sensitive data. Various flow nodes are associated with one or more levels of assurance which are further associated with some authentication tokens of different authentication strengths. Users are usually first authenticated with a lower authentication strength token. Risk profiles may also be accessed to examine the users' requests for access for fraud detection or prevention purposes. As users attempt to access more sensitive data at a higher level of assurance beyond the authorized level, further authentication with higher authentication strength and involving more user efforts in completing the authentication is required before users are authorized on the higher level of assurance.
US09444822B1	Storage array access control from cloud-based user authorization and authentication Providing authorization and authentication in a cloud for a user of a storage array includes: receiving, by a storage array access module from a client-side array services module, a token representing authentication of user credentials and authorized access privileges defining one or more storage array services accessible by the user, where the token is generated by a cloud-based security module upon authentication of the user credentials and identification of authorized access privileges for the user; receiving, by the storage array access module from the user, a user access request to one or more storage array services; and determining, by the storage array access module, whether to grant the user access request in dependence upon the authorized access privileges represented by the token.
US09444820B2	Providing context-based visibility of cloud resources in a multi-tenant environment A secure tag generation service is associated with a cloud infrastructure. This service establishes a security context for a particular cloud tenant based on a tenant's security requirements, one or more cloud resource attributes, and the like. The security content is encoded into a data structure, such as a tag that uniquely identifies that security context. The tag is then encrypted. The encrypted tag is then propagated to one or more cloud management services, such as a logging service. When one or more cloud resources are then used, such use is associated with the encrypted security context tag. In this manner, the encrypted tag is used to monitor activities that are required to meet the security context. When it comes time to perform a security or compliance management task, any cloud system logs that reference the encrypted security context tag are correlated to generate a report for the security context.
US09444814B2	Method and system for the provision of services for terminal devices Services are provided for terminal devices, each having a TPM module. The TPM module of a terminal device transmits a service request with an ID assertion signed by a configurable credential to a server for the purpose of accessing the services of the server.
US09444800B1	Virtual communication endpoint services Customers can utilize resources of a multi-tenant environment to provide one or more services available to various users. In order to simplify the process for these customers, the multi-tenant environment can include an infrastructure wherein a portion of the resources provide an authentication and/or authorization service that can be leveraged by the customer services. These resources can logically sit in front of the resources used to provide the customer services, such that a user request must pass through the authorization and authentication service before being directed to the customer service. Such resources can provide other functionality as well, such as load balancing and metering.
US09444794B2	Low-latency secure segment encryption and authentication interface An apparatus comprising a memory, a processor coupled to the memory and configured to obtain a Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) (DASH) Media Presentation Description (MPD) from an HTTP server, wherein the MPD describes a media presentation as at least one encrypted segment, and wherein the encrypted segment is associated with an availability time and a decryption key, and prefetch the decryption key associated with the encrypted segment by requesting the decryption key from a key server prior to the availability time of the encrypted segment.
US09444793B2	System, apparatus and method for encryption and decryption of data transmitted over a network A method and system for securing data transmitted between a client device and a server by obtaining input text at an intermediate module, processing the input text to obtain processed text, deciding whether to transform the input text deterministically or non-deterministically, or a combination of deterministically and non-deterministically, and based on that decision, transforming the input text accordingly, using at least one key to obtain processed text, and transmitting the processed text to the server. Other embodiments and features of the invention include (independently or together) searching for processed text, allowing for sorting of processed text records by applying an order-preserving transformation, storing unabridged processed elements in a storage device managed by the intermediate module, providing a function by the intermediate module on the input data in lieu of the server, and processing the processed text so as to determine by the intermediate module a transformation applied by the server on input text.
US09444792B2	Dynamic tunnel for real time data communication A tunneled session management (“TSM”) server manages a dynamic datagram tunnel (“DDT”) for a real time communication (“RTC”) with a TSM client. The TSM server establishes a stream based tunnel with the TSM client and then establishes the RTC via the stream based tunnel, where the RTC includes communicating a first channel for signaling traffic and a second channel for media traffic. Then, it is determined whether to establish the DDT for communicating the media traffic, and if so, the DDT is established and the second channel is communicated via the DDT while the first channel is maintained on the stream based tunnel.
US09444786B2	Policy based auditing of workflows An auditing system is disclosed comprising a Policy Validation Mechanism Program (PVMP) that operates in conjunction with a Workflow Engine (WE), and a Policy Validation Server Program (PVSP) that operates on a Policy Validation Server (PVS) connected to the WE by a secure communication link. The PVMP converts a workflow to a workflow representation (WR) and sends the WR to the PVS. The PVSP compares the steps in the WR to a security policy identified for that WR and determines whether the WR is in compliance. In addition, the PVSP validates a checksum for the WR and logs the checksum for subsequent comparisons. The PVSP uses the checksum to determine whether a policy has changed during execution of the workflow.
US09444785B2	Transparent provisioning of network access to an application An apparatus and method for enhancing the infrastructure of a network such as the Internet is disclosed. A packet interceptor/processor apparatus is coupled with the network so as to be able to intercept and process packets flowing over the network. Further, the apparatus provides external connectivity to other devices that wish to intercept packets as well. The apparatus applies one or more rules to the intercepted packets which execute one or more functions on a dynamically specified portion of the packet and take one or more actions with the packets. The apparatus is capable of analyzing any portion of the packet including the header and payload. Actions include releasing the packet unmodified, deleting the packet, modifying the packet, logging/storing information about the packet or forwarding the packet to an external device for subsequent processing. Further, the rules may be dynamically modified by the external devices.
US09444771B2	Method and device to simplify message composition A method and device to simplify message reply composition on a communications device, using a partially transparent overlay to allow a user to freely scroll and move around to other sections of a message or message chain while still being able to see and edit the reply being composed. When the reply is scrolled such that the composition field is not visible on the display screen, the device displays the overlay when the user enters text or on user request. The user may then type text into the overlay while viewing the underlying portion of the reply message, such as previous messages in the string.
US09444770B1	Method and apparatus of organizing and delivering data to intended recipients Disclosed are an apparatus and method of organizing a plurality of data recipients subscribed to receive information from a leader. An example method may include receiving a plurality of response messages from at least a portion of the plurality of data recipients, and determining a decrease in the plurality of response messages received from the at least a portion of the plurality of data recipients based on a previous number of response messages received. The method may also include removing at least one data recipient from the plurality of data recipients and adding the removed at least one data recipient to a new group of data recipients responsive to the decrease in the plurality of response messages received.
US09444768B1	Multi-router system having shared network interfaces A multi-router system is described in which hardware and software components of one or more standalone routers can be partitioned into multiple logical routers. The multiple logical routers are isolated from each other in terms of routing and forwarding functions yet allow network interfaces to be shared between the logical routers. Moreover, different logical routers can share network interfaces without impacting the ability of any of the logical routers to be independently scaled to meet the bandwidth demands of the customers serviced by the logical router.
US09444762B2	Computer network systems to manage computer network virtualization environments Automatic configuration management of a network is provided by determining an inventory of resources at a virtualization layer of a node of the network, assigning prioritization to members of a set of network configuration elements, allocating virtual resources among the set of network configuration elements, establishing a network configuration. The configuration is managed by determining real time performance metrics for the configuration, producing a reallocation of the virtual resources based on the performance metrics that are estimated to change the established configuration, change the performance metrics, and initiating the reallocation of the virtual resources. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement that allows a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
US09444750B2	Data communication apparatuses for communication with an external apparatus over a network, control methods of the data communication apparatuses and storage mediums A communication apparatus communicating with an external apparatus via a relaying device is provided. The communication apparatus includes a communication unit configured to perform communication with the relaying device, and a control unit configured to reduce a communication speed of the communication unit to a lower speed if the communication apparatus is to be shifted from a first power mode to a second power mode in which power consumption is lower than that in the first power mode. The communication unit, if the communication apparatus shifts to the second power mode, transmits identification information of the communication apparatus to the relaying device using a first method, and after a predetermined time has passed, transmits the identification information to the relaying device by a second method.
US09444749B2	Apparatus and method for selectively delaying network data flows A control system managing data flows between a sender data processor and a recipient data processor. The data flows originate at the recipient data processor and pass through at least one telecommunications network gateway. The control system includes: a data flow identifier operable to discriminate data packets, sent by the sender data processor to the recipient data processor, as belonging to different data flows depending on respective software applications from which the data flows are originated; and an acknowledgement packet delayer operable to detect acknowledgment packets sent by the recipient data processor for acknowledging receipt of corresponding data packets received from the sender data processor, to discriminate among the acknowledgment packets depending on the data flow to which the acknowledgment packets pertains, and to selectively delay forwarding of the acknowledgment packets to the sender data processor, the selectively delaying depending on the data flow to which the acknowledgment packets relate.
US09444742B2	Mitigating the effects of congested interfaces on a fabric Techniques are provided for mitigating the effects of slow or no drain devices on a fabric. One or more of the described embodiments can be used alone or in combination to address problems associated with inter-switch link blocking and to address the situation where flows which are not associated with slow/no drain devices suffer the negative impacts of slow or no drain devices on a fabric.
US09444740B2	Router, method for controlling router, and program A router includes a buffer selection section for receiving a flit from an adjacent router and determining whether to store the flit on an input buffer or to store the flit on a bypass buffer. The buffer selection section executes at least one of a first control of, when a bypass process was performed, changing at least one of a transmission path and a transmission flow rate of data based on a transmission state of the router; and a second control of, when a bypass control section did not execute the bypass process, changing at least one of a transmission path and a transmission flow rate of data based on a transmission state of another first router at which data not subjected to the bypass process and data subjected to the bypass process by another second router are joined together.
US09444739B2	Congestion control in caching enabled video networks The present invention relates to a method, related system, related congestion monitoring device and related media delivery personalization devices for controlling congestion in a media delivery network that includes a media delivery server and a plurality of client devices. The media delivery server is coupled over the media delivery network to each client device of the plurality of client devices. The media delivery server delivering media to a client device over a path between the media delivery server and the client device. The related method includes the steps of monitoring congestion in the media delivery network and subsequently adapting a level of personalization of the delivering of media to the client device based on the congestion monitored.
US09444738B2	System and method for monitoring the volume of calls carried by a voice over internet protocol telephone system A method and a system for controlling the load of calls carried by a voice over Internet protocol telephone system attempts to reduce or eliminate the overloading of individual trunk groups and/or destination gateways. The system obtains information relating to a plurality of calls in the system, and analyzes the call information to determine if certain trunk groups or destination gateways are overloaded. If so, the system issues commands so that additional calls are diverted away from the overloaded trunk group or destination gateway.
US09444732B2	Address generation in distributed systems using tree method Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, for managing a cluster of servers organized into nodes. A method of one aspect includes establishing a cluster; establishing a set of ultimate identifiers for nodes resulting from splitting in the cluster; and storing every new data object on a node that has a node identifier that identifies a subset of the set of ultimate identifiers, and providing for the object a universal identifier that combines (i) an object identifier that is unique on the node and (ii) a server identifier that is one of the ultimate identifiers in the subset. A method of another aspect includes generating for a new data object a universal identifier that has a node identifier part that uniquely identifies a node, a reserve part generated at least in part as a pseudo-random value, and an object identifier part that uniquely identifies the object in the node.
US09444719B2	Remote detection and measurement of data signal leakage Disclosed are systems and methods for detecting and locating ingress of an over-the-air signal into a wired communications network. Computing devices located in a plurality of different areas may be configured to identify amplitude of signals transmitted over the wired communications network as it varies by signal frequency. In one embodiment, the system may determine expected amplitude of the over-the-air signal at the plurality of different areas. In other embodiments, the system may identify amplitudes received over the wired communication path at the computing devices. The system may determine a location at which the over-the-air signal has entered the wired communications network based on a comparison of the identified and expected amplitudes of the over-the-wire signal.
US09444714B2	Estimating bandwidth in a network A method comprising: collecting respective observations of end-end bandwidth experienced on different occasions by multiple past communications occurring over different respective observed paths over a network, each path comprising a respective plurality of network components; modelling each of the respective network components with a bandwidth probability function characterized by one or more parameters; and estimating a component bandwidth or component bandwidth probability density for each of the network components based on the modelling, by determining respective values for said parameters such that a combination of the component bandwidths or bandwidth probability densities for the network components in the observed paths approximately matches, according to an optimization process, the observations of the end-to-end bandwidth experienced by the past communications over the observed paths.
US09444705B2	Bringing attention to an activity An activity associated with a digital medium may be detected. An interest of a user may be identified responsive to detecting the activity. The interest may be stored, and one or more on-line communities monitored for the interest to find content associated with the interest. The user may be notified of the content in a scalable manner to keep the user up-to-date with the interest.
US09444697B2	Policy enforcement in a distributed computing system A policy is added to a repository. The repository is a component of a distributed computing system. An active service associated with a service level agreement that specifies the policy is identified. The policy is propagated to the active service and then installed on the active service without interrupting the active service. The repository receives the service level agreement that specifies the policy in an enforcement policy. The service level agreement is propagated to the active service and then installed on the active service without interrupting the active service. The policy is then propagated to a client that is associated with the service level agreement installed at the active service.
US09444696B2	Autonomic SLA breach value estimation A method, system and apparatus for estimating an SLA breach value. The method can include processing resource data to identify an acceptable SLA breach value; and, displaying the acceptable SLA breach value through a user interface. The processing step can include identifying a best practices SLA breach value based upon resource data for an aggregation of customers. Alternatively, the processing step can include identifying an average SLA breach value for a specific customer. As a further alternative, the identifying step can include identifying an average SLA breach value for a specific customer for a specific resource. As yet a further alternative, the processing step can include identifying an SLA breach value trend based upon past measured historical systems management data; and, predicting a future SLA breach value based upon the trend. In all cases, the acceptable SLA breach value can be increased by a fixed proportion.
US09444695B2	Methods and systems for scheduling a task Disclosed are the methods for scheduling a task including at least one sub-task, on one or more computing devices in a distributed computing environment. A set of computing devices are identified from the one or more computing devices, based on an availability of a set of computational resources on the set of computing devices. Each computing device in the set of computing devices is ranked based on at least one of a monetary cost or a network cost, associated with the execution of the at least one sub-task on the each computing device. The at least one sub-task is allocated to at least one computing device from the set of computing devices for execution based on at least one of the ranking or an acceptable success probability associated with the execution of the at least one sub-task.
US09444684B2	Method and system for detecting network upgrades A system and method identify a network upgrade from a data set including a plurality of configuration sessions. The system performs the method by receiving a plurality of configuration sessions. Each of the configuration sessions comprises a plurality of configuration commands. The configuration commands are generated by a same user identifier and within a time threshold. The method further includes identifying one of the configuration sessions as a network upgrade session. The identification is based on a rareness of the configuration session or a skewness of the configuration session.
US09444682B2	Location-aware configuration A networking device may operate according to a first configuration profile adapted to cause the device to conform to restrictions applicable within a plurality of different locations. The networking device may obtain a second, location-aware configuration profile, which may include restrictions applicable to the location where the device is deployed. The second, location-aware configuration profile may be provided by a location-aware configuration service responsive to a request from the device. The service may determine a location of the device from the request. The service may identify restrictions applicable within the region the device is located.
US09444674B2	Heuristic analysis of responses to user requests Systems and methods are provided for monitoring the performance of a network with respect to providing results for user requests. A user request can correspond to a search query, an entry of a uniform resource locator (URL) or other address for a document on a network, or another type of request. A plurality of user requests are aggregated, such as based on logs of search query or browsing activity. A representative group of user requests is selected and then submitted in order to evaluate the results provided. Based on a heuristic analysis of the results, an alert can be provided to indicate potential performance problems in the network environment.
US09444673B2	Methods and systems for down-converting a signal using a complementary transistor structure Methods, systems, and apparatuses for down-converting a modulate carrier signal to a demodulated baseband signal by sampling the energy of the carrier signal are described herein. Briefly stated, such methods systems, and apparatuses operate by receiving a modulated carrier signal and using pulses with apertures to control a switch so as to (a) transfer energy from the modulated carrier signal and accumulate the transferred energy in a capacitor when the switch is closed during the apertures of the pulses and (b) discharge some of the previously accumulated energy from the capacitor into load circuitry at least when the switch is open. The demodulated baseband signal is generated from (i) accumulating energy transferred to the capacitor each time the switch is closed during the apertures of the pulses, and (ii) discharging some of the previously accumulated energy into the load circuitry each time the switch is opened.
US09444668B2	Frame synchronization in a receiver using a preamble having a specific structure A method is provided for synchronizing a receiver receiving a signal corresponding to successive samples arranged in a frame with the beginning of the frame being defined by a preamble having a repetition of a first sequence of L samples coming from a transmitter. A method of transmitting the signal is also provided. The preamble is made up of two portions, one portion constituted by the first repeated sequence and another portion constituted by a second repeated sequence. The second sequence corresponds to the symmetrical version of the first sequence limited to a number M of samples that is less than the number L of samples.
US09444661B2	DC offset tracking of wireless receivers A receiver system includes a DC (direct current) offset estimation block configured to capture a plurality of sample pairs, each sample pair including a first sample of a first signal and a second sample of a second signal. The first and second signals are passed through one or more gain elements. The DC offset estimation block is also configured to apply a modified circle-fit algorithm to the plurality of sample pairs to estimate a first DC offset exhibited by the first signal and a second DC offset exhibited by the second signal, the first and second DC offsets generated by the gain elements, the modified circle-fit algorithm includes a magnitude approximation term used to iteratively estimate the first and second DC offsets. The receiver system also includes a DC offset correction block configured to calculate one or more correction control signals based on the first and second DC offsets.
US09444659B2	Voltage mode transmitter A voltage mode transmitter includes a resistive network and a de-emphasis value controller. The resistive network receives plural input voltages and provides plural weighting values corresponding to respective input voltages. A sum of the products of the plural input voltages and the corresponding weighting values is equal to an output voltage. The de-emphasis value controller receives a first signal. After the first signal is inverted as an inverted first signal and the inverted first signal is delayed for a time period, the de-emphasis value controller generates a second signal. The de-emphasis value controller further receives a value control signal. At least one of the plural input signals is provided by the first signal and at least one of the plural input signals is provided by the second signal according to the value control signal.
US09444654B2	Multidrop data transfer Multi-drop communications channels can have significantly deep notches in their frequency response causing a corresponding limitation of the effective data transmission rate. A special time-ordered coding method is described which results in the emitted spectrum of the data stream transmitted into the channel having a notch at the same frequency as the notch in the channel frequency response, permitting channel receivers to successfully decode the transmitted data stream. The described coding method may be applied at various multiples of the channel notch frequency to support different throughput rates, and may be combined with other coding techniques such as group or vector signaling codes.
US09444652B2	Receiving apparatus, data receiving method, and channel estimating apparatus and method therefor In the present disclosure, the UE apparatus is classified by type and the demodulation information to use in channel estimation of MUI signals is determined based on the type of the UE apparatus. The channel estimating apparatus for MUI signals has: a user type determining circuit that determines whether a UE apparatus corresponding to an own station belongs to a first type user or a second type user and determines demodulation information to use in channel estimation of MUI signals based on the type of the UE apparatus corresponding to the own station; and a channel estimating circuit that performs channel estimation of a multi-user interference signal based on the determined demodulation information to use in channel estimation of MUI signals. With this structure, it is possible to improve channel estimation accuracy and further to improve the performance of data reception and user and cell throughputs.
US09444650B2	Methods and apparatus to allocate reference signals in wireless communication systems Methods and apparatus to allocate reference signals in wireless communication systems are disclosed. A disclosed example method comprises applying a first cyclic shift to a first reference sequence during a first time interval, and applying a second cyclic shift to a second reference sequence during a second time interval, wherein the first and second cyclic shifts are members of a set of cyclic shifts assigned to devices of a wireless region.
US09444636B2	Message broadcasting in a clustered computing environment Approaches are provided for message broadcasting within a clustered computing environment such as a Cloud computing environment. Specifically, a message is received in a message queue (e.g., on a message queue server). From the message queue, the message is sent to a single node of a plurality of nodes within the clustered computing environment. The single node can be selected based on factors such as a best available node within the plurality of nodes. This single node will process the message and identify a set of message listeners to whom the message should be broadcast (e.g., based on a topic of the message and an association of the topic to the set of message listeners). The single node will then publish the message to the set of message listeners. Delivery confirmations, responses, etc. associated with the message will then be tracked, processed, and/or routed by the single node.
US09444632B2	Quantum secure device, system and method for verifying challenge-response pairs using a physically unclonable function (PUF) A device for verifying at least one challenge-response pair includes a coherent light source configured to emit coherent light. A challenge creating device is configured to create an optical challenge to be sent to a physically unclonable function (PUF). A wavefront shaping device is configured to perform a verification based on an optical response from the physically unclonable function (PUF). A detector is configured to read out a result of the verification performed by the wavefront shaping device. A focusing device is configured to focus light exiting from the wavefront shaping device onto the detector for detection.
US09444629B2	Dual layer transport security configuration A system includes a first computer processor that receives a data transmission from a second computer processor. The data transmission includes a client certificate authentication and a user-based authentication. If the incoming information cannot be authenticated by the client certificate in a first layer of the system landscape, then there is no further data transmission to a second layer. If the first layer can authenticate the client certificate authentication, the system landscape transmits the data transmission to the second layer. If the second layer cannot authenticate the user-based authentication, the system prevents the data transmission from being processed at the second layer. If the second layer can authenticate the user-based authentication, the system processes the data transmission at the second layer.
US09444625B2	Systems and methods for authenticating an electronic message Systems and methods are disclosed for authenticating electronic messages. A data structure is generated by a computer server which allows for the authentication of the contents and computer server identity of a received electronic message and provides a trusted stamp to authenticate when the message was sent. Data which can authenticate the message, the computer server identity, and the time the message was sent is included into a data structure which is called an Electronic PostMark (EPM).
US09444622B2	Computing platform with system key A method for installing a system key onto a computing platform is disclosed. A system key generator is installed on the computing platform. The system key generator is activated and generates a system key within the computing platform. The system key is also stored within the computing platform.
US09444616B2	Transponder unit, system and method for contactless data transmission A transponder unit for the contactless transmission of modulated data to a reader is provided. The transponder unit includes a clock generator configured to generate a clock signal and to synchronize the clock signal in a synchronization mode, on the basis of a signal received from the reader, and a modulator, the modulator configured to modulate data on the basis of the clock signal from the clock generator. The modulator is configured to generate a modulation pause by masking out at least one modulation component, the modulation component being smaller than a modulation pulse. The modulator is further configured to send the signal for starting the synchronization mode to the clock generator during this modulation pause.
US09444612B2	Multi-wire single-ended push-pull link with data symbol transition based clocking System, methods and apparatus are described that facilitate transmission of data over a multi-wire data communications link, particularly between two devices within an electronic apparatus. A sequence of data bits is converted into M transition numbers, which are then converted into a sequence of symbols. The sequence of symbols is transmitted received over N wires. A clock signal may be effectively embedded in the transmission of the sequence of symbols. Each of the sequence of symbols may be selected based on a corresponding one of the M transition numbers and a value of a preceding one of the sequence of symbols.
US09444609B2	RF front end arrangement and method for sharing first and second antennas by different frequency bands An RF front end arrangement comprises first filtering, second filtering, third filtering, fourth filtering and a switching arrangement. The switching arrangement is configured to selectively connect the filtering to plural antennas such that at a particular time the first and third filtering is connected to a first antenna and the second and fourth filtering is connected to a second antenna. This allows filtering with different frequency response characteristics to be in use simultaneously for the same frequency band. This can reduce the insertion loss associated with a signal path.
US09444600B2	Method and system of communication using dynamic modulation and coding schemes on wide band HF communication channels A method and system of communication in a wide band high frequency HF communication system is disclosed. The system includes at least n communication channels, an interleaver common to the n communication channels, a means for determining the quality of communication of each of the n communication channels. At least the following information is introduced into the structure of the frame of the data at the level of an autobaud: an item of information about the modulation employed on each of the n communication channels chn, an item of information about the interlever common to the n communication channels, the corrector code FEC employed, the number of communication channels employed (n) as well as for each one its identifier idn. The modulation is chosen on channel n, a common coding and interleaving are operated on the n channels, and the information introduced in the shared autobaud is transmitted.
US09444595B2	Hybrid waveform design combining OFDM and cyclic prefix based single carrier for millimeter-wave wireless communication Methods, systems, and devices are described for generating a hybrid waveform for data transmission between a transmitting device and a receiving device. The transmitting device may employ an OFDM processing technique to periodically transmit known first pilot symbols mapped from a signal constellation where each signal has equal energy during a first time period and a cyclic prefix based single-carrier (CP-SC) processing technique to transmit data packets and second known pilot symbols during a second time period. Channel estimation is based on first pilot symbols, which are inserted into all subcarriers of OFDM symbol blocks within a specific period. Channel estimation tracking is based on the second pilot symbols interleaved within data packets. The receiving device may be configured to estimate CSI based in part on first pilot symbols and to track the channel estimation based in part on the second pilot symbols in order to provide reliable data detection.
US09444594B2	Allocating orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA) resources in data over cable services interface specification (DOCSIS) networks A Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS) comprising a receiver configured to receive a plurality of upstream transmission request messages from a plurality of coaxial units via an electro-optical network, wherein the upstream transmission request messages each request permission to transmit a specified amount of data, a processor coupled to the receiver and configured to allocate Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing (OFDM) minislots to each coaxial unit based on the amount of data requested in the associated upstream transmission request message, and a transmitter coupled to the processor and configured to transmit at least one Uplink Allocation Map (UL-MAP) message to indicate minislot allocations to the coaxial units.
US09444591B2	Methods and apparatus for channel interleaving in OFDM systems A method and apparatus for channel interleaving in a wireless communication system. In one aspect of the present invention, the data resource elements are assigned to multiple code blocks, and the numbers of data resource elements assigned to each code block are substantially equal. In another aspect of the present invention, a time-domain-multiplexing-first (TDM-first) approach and a frequency-domain-multiplexing-first (FDM-first) approach are proposed. In the TDM-first approach, at least one of a plurality of code blocks are assigned with a number of consecutive data carrying OFDM symbols. In the FDM-first approach, at least one of the plurality of code blocks are assigned with all of the data carrying OFDM symbols. Either one of the TDM first approach and the FDM-first approach may be selected in dependence upon the number of the code blocks, or the transport block size, or the data rate.
US09444588B1	On-chip bathtub BER measurement for high-speed serdes diagnostics A method for evaluating operation of a receiver comprising an analog front end, a plurality of samplers connected in parallel to the analog front end, the plurality of samplers comprising a plurality of utility samplers, a plurality of data samplers and a plurality of timing samplers, an unrolled decision feedback equalizer (UDFE) connected to outputs of the plurality of data samplers, and a serial input parallel out (SIPO) block connected to an output of the UDFE and outputs of the plurality of utility and timing samplers. The method comprises adjusting settings of the plurality of utility samplers to sweep across a range of interest, at each of a plurality of points comparing a selected output of one of the plurality of utility samplers at that point to an output of one of the plurality of data samplers to detect an error event, and, accumulating the error events.
US09444587B2	Incremental redundancy relays for wireless communication Techniques for relaying transmissions in a wireless communication network are described. In one design, a relay may receive at least one assignment for a packet, which may be sent to the relay or intercepted by the relay. The relay may receive at least one transmission of a packet sent from a transmitter to a receiver. The relay may process the at least one transmission to decode the packet and may generate at least one additional transmission of the packet after correctly decoding the packet. The relay may send the at least one additional transmission of the packet to the receiver. The transmission(s) and the additional transmission(s) may be HARQ transmissions with different redundancy information for the packet. The transmitter may send transmissions until an acknowledgement (ACK) is received from the receiver or the relay. The relay may send additional transmissions until an ACK is received from the receiver.
US09444581B2	Integration of Viterbi algorithm with decision feedback equalization A modified Viterbi algorithm, that integrates decision feedback equalization (DFE), is disclosed. The modified algorithm may be used especially for rate ½ coded transmissions through additive noise channels, where the additive noise is one-tap filtered noise. Each state in the presently-disclosed trellis holds an aggregate error and an aggregate weight of the winner path terminating at that state. Each branch of the trellis carries one or more aggregate errors, where each of the aggregate errors includes a contribution from the aggregate error of the branch's source state as well as a contribution from the difference between an expected symbol of the branch and a corresponding received symbol.
US09444578B2	Method and apparatus of processing digital broadcasting signal in transmitter and receiver A method of processing a digital broadcasting signal in a transmitter is provided. The method includes performing RS (Reed-Solomon) encoding on signaling data containing cross layer information between a physical layer and a upper layer, interleaving the RS encoded signaling data by writing the RS encoded signaling data row-by-row from left-to-right and top-to-bottom in a signaling data block and outputting the signaling data in the signaling data block by reading data column-by-column from top-to-bottom and left-to-right, and transmitting the digital broadcasting signal including the mobile service data and the interleaved signaling data during slots.
US09444573B2	Transmission device and optical transmission system A transmission device that receives an optical signal on which a frequency modulated signal is superimposed includes: an optical filter configured to filter the optical signal; a filter controller configured to control a passband of the optical filter based on a change of power of the optical signal; and a signal detection unit configured to detect the frequency modulated signal based on the change of the power of the optical signal filtered by the optical filter.
US09444571B2	Control information transmission apparatus, control information reception apparatus, and control information transmission method A control information transmission apparatus which can reduce the interference power of the control signal of the terminal connected to the femtocell is provided. The control information transmission apparatus comprises an arrangement unit that arranges some or all of control signals for a terminal in an extension part among resources including a compatible part and the extension part; and a transmission unit that transmits some or all of the arranged control signals for the terminal.
US09444567B2	Method and apparatus for time synchronisation in wireless networks A wireless media distribution system is provided comprising an access point (6) for broadcasting media and a plurality of stations (2) for reception and playback of media. Each station is configured for receiving and decoding a timestamp in a beacon frame transmitted repeatedly from the access point. This is used to control the output signal of a station physical layer clock (12) which is then used as a clock source for an application layer time synchronisation protocol. This application layer time synchronisation protocol can then be used in the station to control an operating system clock (8) for regulating playback of media.
US09444565B1	Wireless audio communications device, system and method A method for dynamic media distribution is disclosed. An audio content server receives, from a computing device of a first user, a request to follow a second user; and designates the first user as a follower of the second user. The audio content server receives from a computing device of a third user, a request to follow the first user; and designates the third user as a follower of the first user. When the audio content server receives from a computing device of the second user, a request to stream a first audio content, the audio content server synchronously streams the first audio content to the second user and the plurality of followers of the second user, first user and the third user among the plurality of followers.
US09444563B2	Wireless audio transmission system and method of wireless audio transmission There is provided a wireless transmission system comprising at least one mobile transmitter for wireless audio transmission having a user interface. The wireless audio transmission system further has a stationary receiver for receiving the wireless audio transmission from the at least one mobile transmitter. The receiver has a receiving unit for wirelessly receiving the audio signals transmitted from the mobile transmitters. The stationary receiver also has an audio processing unit for performing audio processing of the audio signals received by the receiving unit and a sound check unit for analyzing the wireless audio signals received by the receiving unit. The stationary receiver further has a transmitter for transmitting at least parts of the analysis of the sound check unit to the mobile transmitters by way of a return channel.
US09444555B2	Subsea communication A subsea communication system and its method of operating are provided. A subsea power distribution module of the subsea communication system may be adapted to be connected to a topside power supply of a topside installation and to distribute electric power received from topside power supply to subsea modules. A first communication connection to the subsea power distribution module may be adapted to provide a data communication with the topside installation. A second communication connection between the subsea power distribution module and a subsea module may be provided. The subsea power distribution module may forward data communications received on the first communication connection to the subsea module via the second communication connection.
US09444551B2	High performance optical repeater An optical element is to be coupled to a second device by the second electrical link. The particular optical element is further to receive a first signal from the second device over a first inbound lane of the second electrical link, receive a second signal from the second device over a second inbound lane of the second electrical link, and multiplex the first and second signals on a particular optical link to send the first and second signals to the first device.
US09444541B2	Pipe inspection system with wireless data transmission An inspection system is provided, in particular, a pipe inspection system for inspection and/or cleaning of pipes, in particular, sewage pipes, whereby the inspection system comprises an inspection unit and a control unit, whereby the inspection system comprises a transmission-/reception means for wireless transmission of control and/or measurement data between the inspection unit and the control unit. Further, an inspection unit and a transmission-/reception unit suitable for this are provided.
US09444540B2	System and methods for performing antenna transmit diversity A wireless electronic device may include switching circuits that perform time division duplexing by toggling between a first configuration in which radio-frequency signals received from antennas are routed to the transceivers and a second configuration in which the antennas are coupled to antenna switching circuitry. The antenna switching circuitry may receive radio-frequency transmission signals from the transceivers and route the transmission signals to a selected one of the antennas. The antenna switching circuitry may be controlled by control circuitry such as baseband circuitry and/or storage and processing circuitry on the device. The antenna switching circuitry may be controlled to accommodate antenna transmit diversity without affecting reception of radio-frequency signals, because the switching circuits that perform time division duplexing may form signal reception paths that are unaffected by the configuration of the antenna switching circuitry.
US09444533B1	Method to improve multiple user multiple input multiple output pairing in a network A method and system for providing MU-MIMO pairings of mobile handsets in a network is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes facilitating MU-MIMO pairings of mobile handsets served by different transmitting/receiving components serving individual sectors of a base station using a central monitoring server and location information for each of the mobile handsets. In another embodiment, the method includes facilitating MU-MIMO pairings between mobile handsets served by different transmitting/receiving components in different sectors of coverage across separate access components using a central monitoring server and location information for each of the mobile handsets.
US09444525B2	Waveguide for near field communication A computing device comprises a head that can be physically attached to a base. The head may be capable of functioning as a type of computing device independent of the base. The base may include a base transceiver to receive data from a first component of the base, encode the data into a signal, and transmit the signal. The base may include a base waveguide to guide the signal to a head waveguide of the head. The head may include a head transceiver to receive the signal from the head waveguide, decode the data from the signal, and send the data to a second component of the head.
US09444524B2	Use of gemstones with embedded near field communication chips for communication with NFC enabled devices Jewelry incorporating gemstones embedded with near field communication (NFC) chips. Methods of sharing electronic messages using NFC gems by using an NFC enabled device to wirelessly upload an electronic file to a remote computer system over the Internet, wirelessly writing information to an NFC chip embedded in a gemstone, the information including mapping information for accessing the uploaded electronic file and executable instructions to launch and direct a web browser to the electronic file; providing the NFC gem in close proximity to a same or different NFC device to establish near field communication; transferring the information from the NFC chip to the same or different NFC device; and executing the instructions to wirelessly access the electronic file over the Internet.
US09444516B2	Method, apparatus and system for supporting non-vector line Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, an apparatus, and a system for supporting a non-vector line. The method includes: selecting n non-vector lines TL from lines that are in an initializing stage, where n is an integer greater than or equal to 1; controlling to perform no further initializing for other lines that are in the initializing stage except the TL until the TL fully enters a data transmission stage; and before the TL enters the data transmission stage, estimating a far-end crosstalk coefficient CTL-SV from the TL to a vector line SV that is in the data transmission stage, where the CTL-SV is used in signal processing to eliminate far-end crosstalk caused by the TL to the SV.
US09444514B2	OTFS methods of data channel characterization and uses thereof Fiber, cable, and wireless data channels are typically impaired by reflectors and other imperfections, producing a channel state with echoes and frequency shifts in data waveforms. Here, methods of using OTFS pilot symbol waveform bursts to automatically produce a detailed 2D model of the channel state are presented. This 2D channel state can then be used to optimize data transmission. For wireless data channels, an even more detailed 2D model of channel state can be produced by using polarization and multiple antennas in the process. Once 2D channel states are known, the system turns imperfect data channels from a liability to an advantage by using channel imperfections to boost data transmission rates. The methods can be used to improve legacy data transmission modes in multiple types of media, and are particularly useful for producing new types of robust and high capacity wireless communications using non-legacy OTFS data transmission methods.
US09444510B2	Method and apparatus for incorporating passive devices in an integrated passive device separate from a die A circuit including a first die, an integrated passive device and a second layer. The first die includes a first substrate and active devices. The integrated passive device includes a first layer, a second substrate and passive devices. The second substrate includes vias. The passive devices are implemented at least on the first layer or the second substrate. A resistivity per unit area of the second substrate is greater than a resistivity per unit area of the first substrate. The second layer is disposed between the first die and the integrated passive device. The second layer includes pillars. Each of the pillars connects a corresponding one of the active devices to (i) one of the vias, or (ii) one of the passive devices. The first die, the integrated passive device and the second layer are disposed relative to each other to form a stack.
US09444507B2	Waterproof structure for use with electronic device A waterproof structure for use with an electronic device is provided. The electronic device has a gap. The waterproof structure includes a casing and a waterproof gasket. The casing encloses a periphery of the electronic device. The waterproof gasket is clamped between the casing and the electronic device. The waterproof gasket includes a fixing portion fixed to the casing and a first abutting portion and a second abutting portion which extend from the fixing portion. The first abutting portion and the second abutting portion abut against two opposite sides of the gap of the electronic device, respectively. Hence, the waterproof structure prevents liquid from seeping into the electronic device through the gap or even so in case of jerks or vibrations.
US09444504B1	Apparatus and method for selective signal cancellation Method for capturing a high dynamic range signal includes: receiving the wideband analog signal; digitizing the wideband signal by a wideband ADC; detecting N strongest sub-bands in the digitized wideband analog signal; adaptively programming N bandstop filters to block the detected N strongest sub-bands from being digitized by the wideband ADC; adjusting a gain of output signals of the N bandstop filters to amplify said output signals; digitizing the amplified output signals by the wideband ADC to obtain a first digitized signal; adaptively programming N passband filters to pass the detected N strongest sub-bands to N ADCs, respectively; digitizing the detected strongest N sub-band signals output from the N pass-band filters by the respective N ADCs to obtain a plurality of second digitized signals; and processing the first digitized signal and the plurality of second digitized signals to identify any duplicate bands.
US09444494B2	Systems and methods for network coding using convolutional codes A network coding method includes receiving a plurality of input packets each having a packet length. Encoding the plurality of input packets by applying a convolutional code across symbols in corresponding positions of the plurality of input packets obtaining a number of encoded packets. The number of encoded packets obtained being more than the number of input packets.
US09444493B2	Encoder with transform architecture for LDPC codes over subfields using message mapping A low-density parity-check (LDPC) encoder is configured to encode data for storage into a non-volatile memory of a data storage device. The LDPC encoder includes a message mapping circuit configured to receive an input message and to generate a mapped message based on the input message. The LDPC encoder also includes a matrix multiplier circuit configured to multiply the mapped message with columns of a Fourier transform of an LDPC generator matrix to generate at least a portion of a transform of an LDPC codeword. The LDPC encoder is configured to provide the transform of the LDPC codeword to an inverse Fourier transform circuit to generate the LDPC codeword.
US09444492B2	High performance interconnect link layer Transaction data is identified and a flit is generated to include three or more slots and a floating field to be used as an extension of any one of two or more of the slots. In another aspect, the flit is to include two or more slots, a payload, and a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) field to be encoded with a 16-bit CRC value generated based on the payload. The flit is sent over a serial data link to a device for processing, based at least in part on the three or more slots.
US09444487B1	Multiple stage digital to analog converter In an example, there is disclosed a multi-stage Digital to Analog Convertor, including: a first stage having a first set of circuit components, a second stage having a second set of circuit components and a third stage having a third set of circuit components, the third stage providing a load within first and second individual switchable impedance paths; wherein the DAC is operable in each of a first mode, a second mode and a third mode of operation, wherein in a first mode the first stage is switchably coupled to the second stage independently of the third stage; in a second mode, the load is coupled and presented to a first part of the second stage of circuit components and in a third mode the load is coupled and presented to a second, different, part of the second stage of circuit components. A corresponding system and method is also disclosed.
US09444486B2	Digital to analog converter comprising mixer One example described herein relates to a digital to analog converter (DAC). The DAC includes a digital signal input configured to receive a multi-bit digital input signal, and a plurality of unit cells arranged in rows and columns. A row decoder and a column decoder provide respective control signals to respective rows and respective columns to selectively couple a number of the unit cells to an output of the DAC. The number of unit cells which are coupled to the output by the control signals is dependent on the multi-bit digital input signal. At least one of the control signals is modulated based on a local oscillator signal.
US09444483B2	Switch circuit, analog-to-digital converter, and integrated circuit A switch circuit includes: a sampling transistor including a source connected to an input node and a drain connected to an output node; a control circuit which is connected to a gate of the sampling transistor and configured to control turning on or off of the sampling transistor; a voltage holding circuit which is provided between the gate and the source of the sampling transistor and configured to maintain a voltage between the gate and the source of the sampling transistor constant when the sampling transistor is turned on; and a protection circuit which is provided in parallel to the control circuit and configured to lower a voltage that is applied to the gate of the sampling transistor when the sampling transistor makes a transition from on to off.
US09444476B2	Atomic oscillator and interrogation method of coherent population trapping resonance An atomic oscillator includes an alkali-metal cell in which alkali-metal atoms are enclosed, a light source which irradiates the atoms in the alkali-metal cell with laser beams, a photodetector which detects a light amount of the laser beams passing through the alkali-metal cell to enter the photodetector, and a controller which generates sidebands including a pair of laser beams with different wavelengths by performing frequency modulation of a carrier on the light source, causes the pair of laser beams with the different wavelengths to enter the alkali-metal cell, and controls a modulation frequency according to optical absorption characteristics of the atoms by quantum interference effects of a pair of resonance laser beams, wherein the side bands include second-order or higher-order sidebands.
US09444475B2	Oscillator device An oscillator device comprises an oscillation circuit configured to generate and provide an oscillating signal. A first biasing circuit is configured to derive a bias current signal in accordance with a control signal and apply the bias current signal to the oscillation circuit to control the amplitude level of the oscillating signal. A reference generating circuit is configured to generate a reference voltage signal and comprises a second biasing circuit configured to derive a reference bias current signal in accordance with the control signal. A comparison circuit is configured to determine an error signal by comparing a voltage signal at an output of the first biasing circuit with the reference voltage signal observed at an output of the second biasing circuit. A controller is configured to determine the control signal related to the error signal and provide the control signal to the first biasing circuit and the second biasing circuit.
US09444467B2	Oscillator, electronic device and moving object An oscillator includes an oscillation element; an oscillation circuit which causes the oscillation element to oscillate; a heat generation element which heats the oscillation element; a temperature control circuit which controls the heat generation element; and a temperature correction circuit which corrects frequency-temperature characteristics of an output signal of the oscillation circuit.
US09444461B1	Universal input buffer A universal input buffer has a pair of input pins. A first input of a multiplexer is coupled to the second input pin and a second input of the multiplexer receives a common mode voltage of a differential signal applied to the first pin. The multiplexer is responsive to a selection signal to select either of the first and second inputs of said multiplexer. A pair of single-input buffers have inputs coupled respectively to the first and second input pins. A first input of a first differential buffer is coupled to the first input pin, a first input of a second differential buffer is coupled to the second input pin, the second input of the first differential buffer is coupled to the output of the multiplexer, and the second input of the second differential buffer receives a common mode voltage of a differential signal applied to the second pin.
US09444460B1	Integrated circuits with programmable overdrive capabilities Integrated circuits are provided with circuitry such as multiplexers that can be selectively configured to route different power supply voltages to different circuit blocks on the integrated circuits. The circuit blocks may contain memory elements that are powered by the power supply voltages and that provide corresponding static output control signals at magnitudes that are determined by the power supply voltages. The control signals from the memory elements may be applied to the gates of transistors in the circuit blocks. Logic on an integrated circuit may be powered at a given power supply voltage level. The memory elements may provide their output signals at overdrive voltage levels that are elevated with respect to the given power supply voltage level during high speed operation and may provide their output signals at relatively lower voltage levels that are less than the overdrive voltage during low power operation.
US09444457B2	Circuit and method of driving the same In order to reduce power consumption, an arithmetic circuit having a function of performing a logic operation processing based on an input signal, storing a potential set in accordance with the result of the logic operation processing as stored data, and outputting a signal with a value corresponding to the stored data as an output signal. The arithmetic circuit includes an arithmetic portion performing the logic operation processing, a first field-effect transistor controlling whether a first potential, which is the potential corresponding to the result of the logic operation processing is set, and a second field-effect transistor controlling whether the potential of the output signal data is set at a second potential which is a reference potential.
US09444444B2	Anti-ringing technique for switching power stage A driver may provide a transition of a switch between an on state and an off state in two stages. In the first stage, the voltage slew rate of the voltage at an output terminal of the switch may be controlled. In the second stage, the current gradient of the switch may be controlled. The transition between the first stage and the second stage may be made based on the value of the voltage at the output terminal of the switch.
US09444443B2	Gate driver, method of driving display panel using the same and display apparatus having the same A gate driver includes a plurality of stages respectively outputting a plurality of gate output signals. An N-th stage of the gate driver (where N is a positive integer) includes a first input part, a second input part, a pull up part, a pull down part, a holding part and a stabilizing part. The first input part transmits a first clock signal to a second node in response to a signal at a first node. The second input part transmits an input signal to the first node in response to a second clock signal. The pull up part pulls up the gate output signal in response to a signal at the second node. The pull down part pulls down the gate output signal in response to the signal at the first node. The holding part maintains the signal at the second node in response to the first clock signal. The stabilizing part stabilizes the gate output signal in response to the signal at the second node and a third clock signal.
US09444442B2	Open-loop correction of duty-cycle error and quadrature phase error A Phase Interpolator (PI) may be employed as a precisely-controlled delay element in a transmit path, for example in clock forwarded serial links. Methods and circuits are disclosed for estimating a delay needed to correct duty-cycle/and or phase errors of the received clock. These corrections or delta values may be transmitted back to the transmitter side, preferably expressed directly in terms of PI phase codes, for convenient adjustment in the transmitter clock circuitry. Various techniques also are disclosed for measuring and mitigating the effects on PI integral non-linearity.
US09444441B2	Zero-crossing detection circuit and method for synchronous step-down converter In one embodiment, a zero-crossing detection circuit for a synchronous step-down converter, can include: (i) a state determination circuit configured to compare a drain voltage of a synchronous transistor of the synchronous step-down converter against a reference voltage, and to generate a state digital signal indicative of whether a body diode of the synchronous transistor is turned on; (ii) a logic circuit configured to convert the state digital signal into a counting instruction signal; (iii) a plus-minus counter configured to generate a numerical signal in response to the counting instruction signal; (iv) a DAC configured to generate a correction analog signal based on the numerical signal; and (v) a zero-crossing comparator configured to receive the correction analog signal and the drain voltage of the synchronous transistor, and to provide a zero-crossing comparison signal to a driving circuit of the synchronous step-down converter.
US09444436B2	Fully differential level conversion circuit A fully differential level conversion circuit includes a positive signal branch, a negative signal branch and a coupling branch. The negative signal branch has identical structural features with the positive signal branch, which includes a drive terminal and a load terminal, an external fully differential signal is inputted to the drive terminals of the positive signal branch and the negative signal branch correspondingly. The coupling branch includes a first group of active couplers which forms a dual structure with the drive terminal of the positive signal branch and a second group of active couplers which form another dual structure with the drive terminal of the negative signal branch, both of which are connected between the drive terminals and load terminals. The fully differential level conversion circuit realizes applications in the signal processing process which has low power consumption and high-speed, and improves duty cycle of the output signal.
US09444435B1	Injection locked ring oscillator circuit with an analog quadrature calibration loop A ring oscillator includes a first delay stage generating a first phase signal and a second delay stage generating a second phase signal. Each of the first and second delay stages includes variable resistance circuit. A phase comparator circuit performs a phase comparison between the first and second phase signals to generate a phase error signal. An amplifier circuit generates a control signal from the phase error signal. A feedback loop applies the control signal to control the resistance of the variable resistance circuits in the first and second delay stages.
US09444434B1	Systems, methods and apparatus for voltage clamping A voltage clamping system includes: (a) a first electronic device connected to a first power source and having a signal output node, a voltage clamp high node, and a voltage clamp low node, wherein the voltage clamp high node and the voltage clamp low node are coupled to a second power source different than the first power source; and (b) a second electronic device powered by the second power source and having a signal input node coupled to the signal output node of the first electronic device. The signal output node of the first electronic device is passively clamped, with low distortion, approximately rail-to-rail with respect to the second power source such that the second electronic device is protected from damage due to excessive voltage levels.
US09444423B2	Method for adjusting volume and electronic device thereof An apparatus and method for selectively provide an automatic volume adjustment service considering an audio output signal in an electronic device. A method for adjusting a volume includes identifying a second signal which is output through a speaker while a first signal is input through a microphone, and determining whether a volume of an audio signal to be output through the speaker is increased, based on a correlation between the first signal and the second signal.
US09444419B2	Boosted differential class H amplifier A differential audio amplifier system and a related system to generate an output signal free or with only very limited clipping are disclosed. It provides a solution to solve the problem of limited electrical speaker amplifier output power available (e.g. inside battery driver applications). A differential speaker amplifier has positive and negative supply rails. In a first embodiment of the disclosure the negative supply rail is connected to the output of an inverting buck-boost converter and the positive supply rail is directly connected to VSS voltage. In a second embodiment of the disclosure the positive supply rail is connected to the output of a buck-boost converter and the negative supply rail is directly connected to a positive battery voltage.
US09444396B2	Solar photovoltaic power generation panel mount A solar photovoltaic power generation panel mount has a solar photovoltaic power generation panel attached to a mount frame having a plurality of vertical and horizontal bars connected in a grid-like manner. Concrete foundations project upwardly from a mount installation surface at predetermined intervals in a right-left direction under front and rear sides of the mount frame, and the mount frame is supported by the concrete foundations so as to be positionally adjustable in the up-down and right-left directions by mounting brackets fastened to a top of each of the concrete foundations.
US09444385B2	Control apparatus for vibration type actuator A control apparatus for a vibration type actuator, which uses a vibration wave excited by a vibrating member to actuate a movable member in contact with or indirectly connected to the vibrating member, includes a command unit which gives a command indicating at least one parameter, an AC voltage generator which generates the AC voltage for applying the excitation force to the vibrating member, a variable adding unit which adds a predetermined variable to each of one or more parameters, a frequency response characteristic measuring unit which receives as an input a variable output and outputs a physical quantity and obtains a frequency response characteristic at one or more predetermined frequencies, a resonance frequency estimation unit which estimates a resonance frequency of the vibrating member, and a frequency range limiter which determines a frequency range for the AC voltage output by the AC voltage generator.
US09444383B2	Method for open-loop and closed-loop control of an electromagnetic machine Electromagnetic state variables of an electromagnetic machine are represented by space vectors. A setpoint value for the vector of a manipulated voltage at the stator is preset and an actual value of the vector of the current at the stator is measured. A vector of an induced voltage is determined from the setpoint value and the actual value of the vector of the current. A value of a vector of the magnetic flux is estimated from a preset correction voltage and the induced voltage. A phase angle and a rotating field frequency are estimated from the vector of the magnetic flux. A factor is multiplied into the vector of the correction voltage when a torque-forming component of a current at the stator has an opposite mathematical sign to the estimated value of the rotating field frequency.
US09444380B2	Power converter and control method for power converter A control section is configured to, when it is detected that a voltage of a B-terminal of a power generator has exceeded a first predetermined voltage value, turn on all switching elements of a negative arm of a bridge circuit connected to one set of armature windings and turn off all switching elements of a positive arm, and reduce a field current flowing in a field winding. The control section is configured to thereafter turn off all the turned-on switching elements when a predetermined condition is satisfied.
US09444371B2	Device for recovering and converting heat energy into electrical energy A device for converting heat energy into electrical energy including cells, the cells including: a first cavity with one wall for contacting a heat source; a second cavity with one wall for contacting a cold source; a primary channel between the first cavity and the second cavity transporting a fluid as liquid drops, the primary channel providing transport of liquid fluid drops from the second cavity to the first cavity; at least one secondary channel between the first cavity and the second cavity transporting the fluid as a gas; a piezoelectric material provided in one of the cavities; and a fluid as a liquid and gas contained within the cell.
US09444370B2	Electronic device To reduce attenuation of vibration in provision of a tactile sensation when both of a piezoelectric element for providing a tactile sensation and a piezoelectric element for transmitting sound are provided to a panel, an electronic device 1 includes a panel 10, a first piezoelectric element 31 and a second piezoelectric element 32 that are attached to the panel 10, and a control unit 50 for controlling such that the second piezoelectric element 32 is driven to output sound and, when the panel 10 detects a contact, such that the first piezoelectric element 31 is driven, and that the control unit 50, when the panel 10 detects the contact, controls such that the second piezoelectric element 32 is driven as well as the first piezoelectric element 31.
US09444364B2	Adaptive peak power control A switching power converter includes a controller configured to transition from a first operating mode to a second operating mode by determining the operating conditions at the transition point between the operation modes. The controller uses the value of the voltage-time product determined at the boundary between the first and second operating modes to predict the voltage to be applied to the primary-side of the transformer. Using the predicted voltage, the controller can adjust the peak-power control threshold on a cycle-by-cycle basis without the transformer reaching saturation.
US09444358B2	Multiple-input isolated push-pull connected power converters A multiple-input power converter transferring energy from multiple input sources to a load. The multiple-input power converter utilizes a push-pull converter that isolates loads from sources by a transformer in the output rectifier stage. The isolation increases the safety of the system and provides a wider range of sources-to-load voltage transfer ratios. Furthermore, the multiple-input power converter utilizes a lower number of components in comparison to previously designed multiple-input power converter topologies as well as has a lower control circuit implementation cost when compared to previously designed soft-switching multiple-input power converters.
US09444352B2	Current resonance type power supply device Embodiments of the invention may include: a series circuit connected to a junction of a first switch element and a second switch element connected in series across ends of a DC power supply, and to one end of the DC power supply, and formed of a primary winding of a transformer and a capacitor; a rectifier/smoothing circuit configured to rectify and smooth a voltage generated in a secondary winding of the transformer thereby to extract a DC voltage; a control circuit configured to alternately turn on and off the first switch element and the second switch element; a voltage detector configured to detect a voltage of the DC power supply; and a duty controller configured to, under a light-load condition, set a duty ratio between the first switch element and the second switch element closer to 50% as a value of the voltage detected by the voltage detector becomes larger.
US09444338B1	Systems and methods to calibrate switching regulators Various embodiments of the invention provide for a double measurement technique to enable auto-calibration of a switching regulator. In certain embodiments, calibration is performed using a digital conversion circuit that adjusts an internal slope of an on-time generator by adjusting the peak value of a ramp to a desired peak voltage value. Auto-calibration allows for an optimal dynamic response across the entire switching frequency range of the switching regulator even in noisy environments.
US09444335B2	Switching regulator control circuit and switching regulator Provided is a switching regulator configured to achieve a 100% Duty state and reduce an occurrence of an overshoot. The switching regulator has a configuration in which a clamp circuit configured to dynamically generate a clamp level clamps an output voltage of an error amplifier in accordance with a peak value of a triangular wave signal.
US09444334B2	DC/DC converter The present invention includes: a zero crossing detection circuit which outputs a zero crossing signal when an inductor's regeneration period is completed; a light load detection circuit which compares an amplified error signal from an error amplifier and a threshold and outputs a light load signal; a timer circuit which outputs an intermittent operation enabling signal after a predetermined period based on the light load signal and zero crossing signal and outputs an intermittent operation disabling signal when the zero crossing signal is not outputted for a predetermined period; and an ON-OFF control controller which turns off a switching element when the amplified error signal falls below the threshold while the timer circuit is outputting the intermittent operation enabling signal, and turns on the switching element when the amplified error signal at least reaches or exceeds the threshold while the timer circuit is outputting the intermittent operation enabling signal.
US09444332B2	System and method for controlling a power supply during discontinuous conduction mode In accordance with an embodiment, a controller for a switched mode power supply includes an average current comparator that determines whether an average current within the switched mode power supply is below a current threshold, and a switch signal generation circuit coupled to the average current comparator having switch signal outputs configured to be coupled to a switching circuit of the switched mode power supply. The switch signal generation circuit produces a first switching pattern in a first mode of operation and produces a second switching pattern a second mode of operation. When the average current comparator determines that the average current is below the current threshold, the switch signal generation circuit is operated in a first mode, and when the average current comparator determines that the average current is not below the current threshold, the switch signal generation circuit is operated in a second mode.
US09444325B2	Switching regulator compatible with electronic transformer and control method thereof The present invention discloses a switching regulator compatible with an electronic transformer and a control method thereof. The switching regulator includes: a power stage circuit, a control circuit, and an input current peak & valley setting circuit. The control circuit is coupled to the power stage circuit, for generating an operation signal according to a feedback signal and a peak & valley setting signal, to operate at least one power switch in the power stage circuit, so as to convert a rectified input voltage to an output voltage. The input current peak & valley setting circuit is coupled to the control circuit, for generating the peak & valley setting signal such that in one cycle period, the input current has multiple valleys forming a semi-sinusoidal contour.
US09444314B2	Automotive rotary electric machine and stator manufacturing method that is used therefor The stator winding has winding assemblies that are disposed in a stator core so as to be stacked in three or more layers in a radial direction such that slot-housed portions line up in single columns in a clot depth direction inside slots, and radial widths of return portions of the winding assemblies that are mounted so as to be stacked in a radial direction are made sequentially narrower in order of return portions of a winding assembly that is positioned centrally, return portions of a winding assembly that is positioned on an inner circumferential side, and return portions of a winding assembly that is positioned on an outer circumferential side.
US09444309B2	Radial blower air guide, system, and method of cooling A radial blower air guide includes a first end wall substantially circumscribing an end bracket of an electric motor. The air guide includes a second end wall spaced apart from the first end wall and has an inner periphery that circumscribes a periphery of the motor. The air guide includes an outer wall extending from an edge of the first end wall to an edge of the second end wall. The outer wall is formed from a thin curved plate and partially defines a ring-shaped chamber therebetween. The outer wall has an aperture defined therethrough. The air guide includes a baffle plate coupled to the inner periphery of the second end wall. The baffle plate extends a first width toward the first end wall and partially defines the chamber. The baffle plate is configured to deflect air to control the distribution of the airflow from the chamber.
US09444300B2	Core winding method and stator In a method for winding a core having an arch-like yoke portion, a tooth portion, and a tooth end portion by revolving a nozzle for feeding a conductive wire, when winding is performed in a bow-like area surrounded by an inner circumferential arc of the yoke portion and the chord thereof, upon winding on an end surface of the core, the nozzle moves so as to draw a convex-shaped trajectory proceeding from the tooth end portion side toward the yoke portion side with reference to the chord of the bow-like area, and upon winding on a side surface of the core, the nozzle returns from the yoke portion side to the tooth end portion side with reference to the chord of the bow-like area, and then moves along the side surface of the core.
US09444299B2	Spacer for stabilizing and insulating an end winding A spacer for mechanically stabilizing and electrically insulating an end winding in an electric motor includes an elastic nose having a free end. A planar, electrically insulating sheet is integrally formed at an end of the nose located opposite the free end. Such spacers are used in an electric motor having an iron core, whose teeth are surrounded by coils whose end windings laterally project from the iron core. The spacers are press-fitted inside openings formed by the end windings and the teeth, so that the end windings are covered by the sheet of the press-fitted spacer in the direction of an air gap of the electric motor in each case.
US09444295B2	Rotor of permanent magnet motor In this rotor (101), which has permanent magnets (105) inserted in a rotor core (102), main body sections (117) of magnetic shield sections (107) are formed in contact with the q-axis-side end faces (105q) of each permanent magnet (105). In addition, an extension section (127) for each magnetic shield section (107) is formed positioned more toward the outer periphery than the outer-periphery-side pole face (105ou) of the permanent magnet (105) and between the d-axis and the q-axis at an end face of the rotor core (102). Each extension section (127) is configured so as to gradually approach the outer periphery of the rotor core (102) while extending from the outer-periphery-side end of the main body section (117) from the q-axis to the d-axis side, and then gradually move away from the outer periphery of the rotor core (102) while extending from the q-axis side to the d-axis side.
US09444294B2	Split rotor multiphase generator A generator comprises a rotor assembly having a first rotor and a second rotor located about a shaft along a rotational axis. Each rotor includes a plurality of magnets circumferentially located about the rotational axis. The first rotor and the second rotor are separated by a gap, and adjacent magnets around each rotor and between the first rotor and the second rotor are aligned to have alternating polarity. The generator further comprises a stator assembly having a first stator and a second stator located about the shaft. The first stator inner surface is in close proximity to the first rotor outer surface and the second stator inner surface is in close proximity to the second rotor outer surface. Each stator includes a plurality of conductors circumferentially located about the shaft and proximal to the plurality of magnets of a corresponding rotor.
US09444284B2	Bi-directional wireless charger A bi-directional charging device includes a rechargeable battery, a coil coupled to the rechargeable battery, a selection mechanism that selectively causes power to be delivered from the coil to the battery and selectively causes power to be delivered from the battery to the coil, and a control mechanism. Upon determining that the coil is to provide power to the battery, the control mechanism causes the selection mechanism to selectively cause power to be delivered from the coil to the battery, and upon determining that the coil is to receive power from the battery, the control mechanism causes the selection mechanism to selectively cause power to be delivered from the battery to the coil.The bi-directional charging device includes a housing enclosing the rechargeable battery, the coil, the selection mechanism, and the control mechanism.
US09444281B2	Unified high power and low power battery charger The embodiments discussed herein relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for providing a charger capable of adaptively handling a range of power inputs. The charger can selectively activate different control switches within the charger in order to more efficiently use current supplied to the charger. When a low power input is provided to the charger, the charger can reduce the number of active control switches being used to provide a voltage output from the charger. In this way, the capacitance required to toggle the control switches can be reduced. When a high power input is provided to the charger, the number of active control switches can be increased in order to increase a total amount of charge that can be provided from the charger, thereby reducing charge times for batteries.
US09444278B2	USB charging with data communication A process is disclosed for communicating digital data between a powered device and a charging device via a universal serial bus (USB). The process includes conducting a handshaking period between the powered device and the charging device via the USB. The powered device initiates a mode of normal operation of the charging device after an end of the handshaking period. The charging device communicates digital data (e.g., available power levels) between the powered device and the charging device during a time period that starts with the end of the handshaking period and ends with a beginning of the mode of normal operation.
US09444272B2	Energy storage system balancing device An energy storage system balancing device arranged to perform balance processing of charge states of a plurality of energy storage systems being disconnected from each other and from external loads is provided. Each of the storage systems is divided into a plurality of cells and at least one equalization device is arranged in each storage system for balancing the cells within the system. The balancing device is arranged to at least collect information about voltage of at least one cell in each storage system from the equalization device/-s and determine a balancing status of the storage systems on the basis of the collected information. The balancing device is further arranged to determine a target cell voltage in dependency of the balancing status and provide the target voltage to each equalization device to control the balancing of the cells.
US09444271B2	Battery balance circuit A battery balance circuit is adapted to balance battery voltages among a plurality of battery cells. The battery balance circuit is enabled to perform a battery balance process when the battery cells are charged, and is disabled when one of the batter cells is fully charged or the battery cells are un-charged.
US09444269B2	Battery pack and charger platform for power tool systems including battery pack identification scheme A battery pack and charger platform including a voltage coupling circuit comprising an input that receives an input voltage and an output that sends an output voltage, a voltage monitoring circuit having an input coupled to the voltage coupling circuit output and an output, and a power source having an input coupled to the voltage monitoring circuit output, the power source input receives an input voltage representative of a charge instruction.
US09444266B2	Wireless inductive power transfer with temperature control of the receiver A wireless power transfer system comprises a power transmitter (101) arranged to generate a wireless inductive power transfer signal for powering a power receiver (105). The system comprises a temperature controlled power loop setting an operating temperature for a heating part of a powered device. The system further comprises a receiver (207) for receiving a first temperature for a part of a powered device where the powered device is powered by the power receiver (105). A comparator (209) compares the measured temperature to a first reference temperature associated with the power transmitter (101). In response to the first temperature exceeding the reference temperature, a controller (213) proceeds to restrict the power of the power transfer signal and/or to generate a user alert. The first temperature may specifically relate to a contact surface of the powered device and the reference temperature may be a maximum allowable temperature of a contact surface for receiving the powered device during power transfer.
US09444262B2	Bus system The invention relates to a bus system comprising a bus line, a plurality of consumers of electric power which are connected to one another via the bus line, having a plurality of separate electric current supply units which each make available an electric voltage for the current supply with at least one consumer. The bus system is divided into segments each having one or more consumers respectively associated with a current supply unit and which each have a first current supply line and a second current supply line. The first current supply line and the second current supply line are respectively not directly electrically conductively connected to the first current supply line and to the second current supply line of a different segment and are preferably separated from the first current supply line and the second current supply line of the other segment in a galvanic manner.
US09444256B2	Power storage system A power storage system includes an AC/DC converter, a first control device, a power storage device, and a load. The first control device includes a measuring portion that measures the amount of power consumed by the load, a predicting portion that predicts the demand for power consumed by the load on the basis of the amount of power consumed by the load, and a planning portion that makes a charge and discharge plan of the power storage device on the basis of the demand for power predicted by the predicting portion. The power storage device includes a second control device, a DC/DC converter, a first battery cell group, and a second battery cell group. The power storage device is placed in an underfloor space surrounded by a base and a floor of a building.
US09444251B2	Power supply and display apparatus having the same A power supply includes: a first switch arranged between an input power supplier and a load; a driving power supplier to receive input power through the first switch and to supply the input power to the load when a current mode of the load is a normal mode; and a power-saving power supplier connected to a power line branched from between the input power supplier and the first switch, the power-saving power supplier generating standby power when the current mode is a standby mode, and including a second switch connected to the power line, a charger to charge power transmitted through the second switch and to output the charged power as the standby power, a voltage detector to detect the voltage of the charged power, and a first controller to receive driving power from the charger and to control operation of the second switch according to the detected voltage.
US09444248B2	Control circuit for limiting a load current, charging circuit and motor vehicle A control circuit for indirectly limiting a load current which flows through a controllable semiconductor component. The control circuit controls the controllable semiconductor component based upon a measured and/or a calculated load-current-dependent power loss of the semiconductor component. The control circuit can also control the controllable semiconductor component based upon a measured and/or a calculated load-current-dependent component temperature of the controllable semiconductor component. A charging circuit includes a controllable semiconductor component for limiting a load current and has a control circuit in accordance with the invention. A motor vehicle includes an on-board electrical power supply system having a charging circuit in accordance with the invention.
US09444244B2	Signal-activated circuit interrupter The current invention is an automatic AC power interruption system built into a portable apparatus or integrated into electrical systems and appliance control circuitry. Power is interrupted in potentially hazardous conditions, for example, when a T3 smoke detector alarm signal is detected. Alternatively, a portable device may be plugged into a power outlet having a GFCI breaker and, when a hazard alarm condition is detected, trip off power to the outlet. Signal-activated circuit interrupters (SACIs) may be integrated into appliance control circuitry and interrupt power to a problematic device when a hazard alarm condition is detected. In addition to fire prevention, other hazard alarm conditions may include alarms indicating toxic fumes, motor overload, natural gas, radon, or carbon monoxide. Interconnected networks of signal-activated circuit interrupters are also disclosed.
US09444240B2	Aerial cable spacer apparatus with rollers and associated methods thereof An aerial cable spacer apparatus and associated methods thereto are provided. The aerial cable spacer apparatus includes a spacer arm. A spacer body is connected to the spacer arm. At least one saddle is formed on the spacer body. At least one roller is connected to at least one of the at least one saddle and the spacer body, wherein an exterior surface of the at least one roller is positioned to intersect a cable interface path of the at least one saddle.
US09444228B2	Spark plug A spark plug having a front end of a spark plug body that projects over a front end of an insulator, a recess that is arranged at the front end of the insulator from which a center electrode projects and forms an air spark gap with a ground electrode, an annular intermediate space that is formed by the recess between the insulator and the center electrode, and a surface of the recess that runs in an at least partially curved manner between the center electrode and the end of the spark plug body so that the recess forms an insulating section that prevents a sliding spark between the center electrode and the spark plug body.
US09444222B2	Two dimensional photonic crystal vertical cavity surface emitting lasers The 2D-PC surface emitting laser includes: a PC layer; and a lattice point for forming resonant-state arranged in the photonic crystal layer, and configured so that a light wave in a band edge in photonic band structure in the PC layer is diffracted in a plane of the PC layer, and is diffracted in a surface vertical direction of the PC layer. The perturbation for diffracting the light wave in the surface vertical direction of the PC layer is applied to the lattice point for forming resonant-state. The term “perturbation” means that modulation is periodically applied to the lattice point for forming resonant-state. For example, the periodic modulation may be refractive index modulation, hole-diameter modulation, or hole-depth modulation.
US09444221B2	Laser apparatus and method to re-tune emission wavelength tunable LD A laser apparatus for tuning the emission wavelength of a wavelength tunable laser diode will be described. The apparatus includes a tunable LD with heaters to tune the emission wavelength of the tunable LD, and a controller to control the power supplied to the heaters. A feature of the laser apparatus is that the controller supplies pre-emphasis power to the heaters before the supplement of the power corresponding to the re-tuned emission wavelength to accelerate the stability of the temperature of the heaters.
US09444214B2	Beam guidance system for the focusing guidance of radiation from a high-power laser light source toward a target and LPP X-ray source comprising a laser light source and such a beam guidance system A beam guidance system serves for the focusing guidance of radiation from a high-power laser light source toward a target. The beam guidance system has at least one mirror as reflective beam guidance component and at least one transmission component which is at least partially transmissive to the radiation as refractive beam guidance component. The arrangement of the at least one mirror and of the at least one transmission component is such that beam-induced changes to the beam guidance properties of the at least one mirror are at least partly compensated for by beam-induced changes to the beam guidance properties of the at least one transmission component. This results in a beam guidance system in which beam-induced changes to the beam guidance properties of the beam guidance system do not have a disturbing effect on the focusing guidance of the radiation from the laser light source.
US09444212B2	Method of manufacturing electrical wire connecting structure and electrical wire connecting structure In an electrical wire connecting structure and a method of manufacturing the electrical wire connecting structure, a terminal having a tube-shaped portion of 2.0 mm in inner diameter is prepared for an electrical wire having a conductor cross-sectional area of 0.72 to 1.37 mm2, the electrical wire 13 is inserted into an electrical wire insertion port of the tube-shaped portion of the electrical wire, and the tube-shaped portion and the core wire portion of the electrical wire are compressed to be crimp-connected to each other. Furthermore, a terminal having a tube-shaped portion of 3.0 mm in inner diameter is prepared for an electrical wire having a conductor cross-sectional area of 1.22 to 2.65 mm2, the electrical wire is inserted into the electrical wire insertion port of the tube-shaped portion 25 of the electrical wire, and the tube-shaped portion and the core wire portion of the electrical wire are compressed to be crimp-connected to each other.
US09444209B2	Brush device, electric machine The invention relates to a brush device, in particular for an electric machine, comprising at least one brush holder which has at least two brush boxes for receiving in each case one brush, wherein the brushes are mounted in a displaceable manner in the respective brush box and wherein a helical spring can be braced/is pretensioned in each case between one of the brushes and a stop in the respective brush box, and comprising at least two elastically deformable electrical conductors which are each connected with an end thereof to one of the brushes.
US09444204B2	Serial bus connector A serial bus connector is provided comprising as least one insulated body having a plurality of openings, a plurality of rows of terminals, a base assembly, at least one conductive cover, and an outer shielding. The at least one conductive cover is located upon an outer surface of a side wall of the insulated body, and comprises a plurality of first conductive portions and second conductive portions. The first conductive portions are formed by bending the conductive cover toward a direction of the inside of the insulated body, and the second conductive portions are formed by bending the conductive cover toward an opposite direction of the insulated body. The first conductive portions pass through the openings of the insulated body to extend into the inside of the insulated body for electrically connecting with another complementary connector.
US09444198B2	Communication module and communication module connector A connector includes a plug connector and a receptacle connector. The plug connector has an insertion convex portion including: an end surface; outer side surfaces facing in parallel to each other across the end surface; and a first tapered surface connecting each outer side surface and the end surface. The receptacle connector has an insertion concave portion including: an insertion port; inner side surfaces facing in parallel to each other across the insertion port; and a second tapered surface connecting each inner side surface and an edge of the insertion port. The outer side surfaces of the insertion convex portion have first connection terminals arranged, the inner side surfaces of the insertion concave portion have second connection terminals arranged in contact with the first contact terminals, and the first tapered surface has a width twice as large as a width of the second tapered surface or larger.
US09444197B2	Shielded and multishielded coaxial connectors A shielded coaxial connector with a moveable center conductor and a stationary center conductor, the center conductors forming a disconnect switch that interoperates with a waveguide to shield one of the center conductors from radio frequency signals such as radio frequency signals carried by the other center conductor.
US09444193B1	Electrical connector assembly and cable assembly having a conductive gasket to reduce electromagnetic leakage Electrical connector assembly includes a housing assembly having first and second housing shells that are coupled to each other along a housing seam and define an interior cavity therebetween. The housing seam extends along a three-dimensional (3D) path. The electrical connector assembly also includes an electrical connector having a back end that is disposed within the interior cavity and a front end that is configured to mate with an external mating connector. The electrical connector also including a conductive gasket having a 3D gasket frame that substantially matches the 3D path of the housing seam. The 3D gasket frame being a discrete structure that is positioned along the housing seam to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) leakage through the housing seam.
US09444192B2	Communication connector and electronic device using communication connector A connector includes one insulator, conductive contacts fixed through the insulator, and wire bodies that are in respectively one-to-one connection to the conductive contacts. The conductive contacts are arranged in arrays to form several conductive contact arrays, each conductive contact array includes several conductive contact groups, and each conductive contact group includes two differential contacts and one earth contact, where wire bodies connected to each conductive contact array form a wire body array, and wire bodies connected to each conductive contact group form a wire body group. The communication connector further includes several shielding pieces, where the shielding pieces are disposed between two neighboring wire body arrays two neighboring wire body arrays, each shielding piece is not conductively connected to any object, and each shielding piece covers only one wire body group.
US09444188B2	Appliance having a control housing with a connector brace An appliance having a control housing assembly for operably storing a printed circuit board to which corresponding wiring connectors may be connected to couple electrical components to the printed circuit board.
US09444186B2	Blind mating and floating RF connector assembly with low intermodulation The present invention discloses a blind mating and floating RF connector assembly with low intermodulation, comprising a first connecting device and a second connecting device, wherein the first connecting device comprises a first guide portion and the second connecting device comprises a second guide portion adapted for mating with the first guide portion, wherein the first connecting device has a slotted configuration and is provided, at an end, with a boss projecting radially outwards and the second connecting device is provided with a corresponding inner engaging groove being capable of radially abutting the boss, wherein the second connecting device comprises a fixed mount unit and a floating unit, the floating unit being capable of moving radially and axially relative to the fixed mount unit, in such a way that a plurality of pairs of the first connecting device and the second connecting device can be quickly connected simultaneously via a quick blind mating operation when the first connecting device and the second connecting device are brought together, without necessarily making the first connecting device and the second connecting device be axially aligned precisely with each other. The present invention allows relative floating of connecting devices of a plurality of pairs of low-intermodulation RF connectors, allows simultaneous quick blind mating connection, and improves connecting efficiency and installation reliability.
US09444184B2	System and method for releasably coupling a fluid dispenser to a dispensing system A system and method for releasably coupling a fluid dispenser to a structure. There is a push to connect-pull to disconnect connector system that has first and second mating connectors. A first connector is mounted to the dispenser and a second connector is mounted to the structure. The connector system accomplishes both mechanical and electrical interconnection between the dispenser and the structure.
US09444178B2	Waterproof connector having a housing with an elastic member elastically compressed into an opening in the housing A waterproof connector, provided with: a housing (11); at least one contact (12) fixed to the housing (11), each contact (12) having a contacting part (12a) which is formed at one end and which comes into contact with the contact of the counterpart connector, a substrate attachment part (12d) formed at the other end and attached to the substrate, a housing fixing part (12b) formed between the contacting part (12a) and the substrate attachment part (12d), and an elastic member attachment part (12c) formed between the housing fixing part (12b) and the substrate attachment part (12d); and a waterproofing elastic member (13) attached to the elastic member attachment part (12c) of the contact (12). The housing (11) has at least one through-hole (16) into which the contact (12) is inserted, and a concave elastic member containing part (15) communicating with the through-hole (16). The housing fixing part (12b) of the contact (12) is pressed into and fixed in the corresponding through-hole (16) of the housing (11), and the elastic member (13) is contained in the elastic member containing part (15) of the housing (11).
US09444167B2	Terminal and terminal manufacturing method A male terminal (40) includes a terminal body (41) and an insulating member (45). The terminal body (41) includes a cylindrical terminal contact portion (42) provided with a penetration hole (42a) extending in the axial direction. The insulating member (45) includes a tip insulating portion (46) projecting forward from the tip of the terminal contact portion (42), a terminal holding portion (47) disposed on the rear side of the terminal contact portion (42) to hold the terminal body (41), and a communicating resin portion (48) disposed in the penetration hole (42a) to connect the tip insulating portion (46) and the terminal holding portion (47).
US09444165B2	Pin arrangement and electronic assembly A pin arrangement adapted to a FPC connector is provided. The pin arrangement includes a pin lane. The pin lane includes a pair of ground pins, a pair of differential pins and at least one not-connected (NC) pin. The differential pins are located between the pair of ground pins. The at least one NC pin is located between the pair of differential pins or between one of the pair of ground pins and one of the pair of differential pins adjacent thereto. By adding the at least one NC pin between the pair of differential pins and/or between the differential pin and the ground pin adjacent thereto, a distance between each of the pair of the differential pins and/or between the differential pin and the ground pin is increased, and thus a differential characteristic impedance of the pair of differential pins is raised to reduce the impact of impedance mismatch.
US09444163B2	Miniaturized wire-to-board connector system for wearable devices A miniaturized wire-to-board connector system is disclosed for establishing electrical connection between an electrical cable and a printed circuit board, and for establishing mechanical connection between the electrical cable and a case having the printed circuit board enclosed therein. The connector system includes a male and a female connector, is small enough to be incorporated in a highly miniaturized wearable device, and is stable and sturdy enough to be handled directly by a consumer, thereby enabling an increase in complexity, providing interconnectable parts in wearable consumer products. The connector system is also useful in aerospace applications in which components must be connected within a very small space.
US09444161B2	Multiple-in-one receptacle connector A multiple-in-one receptacle connector used for an audio equipment includes an insulating housing, receptacle connectors, and sealants. The insulating housing has a top surface having cavities disposed thereon and a bottom surface. Each cavity has a bottom having through holes disposed thereon and penetrating through the bottom surface. Each receptacle connector accommodated in the corresponding cavity includes terminals. Each terminal has a soldering section extending backward out of the corresponding receptacle connector. The soldering sections of each receptacle connector pass through the through holes disposed on the bottom of the corresponding cavity, respectively, to be out of the bottom surface. Each sealant disposed on the bottom surface seals gaps formed between the soldering sections of each receptacle connector and the through holes disposed on the bottom of the corresponding cavity. Sounds are prevented from leaking from gaps by the sealants sealing the gaps.
US09444157B2	Connector and refrigerator including the same A refrigerator having an inner case that constitutes a storage compartment, an outer case that is coupled to an outer side of the inner case and constitutes an exterior, and a connector that connects a flexible flat cable (FFC) and wires. The connector includes a first housing having an accommodation space in which the FFC is inserted, a plurality of second housings in which a wire insertion hole into which the wires are inserted, is formed and which are coupled to the first housing, and connection members provided in the first housing and the plurality of second housings so as to electrically connect the FFC and the wires. The connector is installed at the inner case in such a way that the first housing faces the outer case and the second housings face the storage compartment.
US09444155B2	Terminal connector with improved actuation structure A terminal connector includes a housing, at least one conductor-retaining terminal each including an insertion passage for receiving the conductor of one respective electrical wire inserted into the housing and two springy suspension arms bilaterally disposed near a rear side and respectively curving toward the inside of the insertion passage for clamping the conductor, and at least one slide block each including a sliding cover panel coupled to the housing two beveled pushing surfaces located at a bottom side of the sliding cover panel and movable with the sliding cover panel between a first position where the pushing surfaces are kept away from the springy suspension arms for allowing the springy suspension arms to clamp on the conductor and a second position where the pushing surfaces are engaged into the gap between the springy suspension arms to release the conductor from the constraint of the springy suspension arms.
US09444150B2	Antenna device and portable wireless terminal equipped with same A first connection circuit (108) is adjusted to cancel out mutual coupling impedance occurring between a first antenna element (106) in a first frequency band and a second antenna element (107) in a second frequency band, and reduces a degradation occurring due to the coupling between the antenna elements. A second frequency band cutoff circuit (111) for the second frequency band is provided between the first antenna element (106) and the first feeding portion (104).
US09444148B2	Printed quasi-tapered tape helical array antenna A printed quasi-tapered tape helical element and printed helical array antenna. The helical element comprises a thin helix conductor having a uniform section associated with a tapered section. The helix conductor can be printed on a thin dielectric sheet and bonded to a hollow composite dielectric support. A solid copper conductor is configured to provide electrical connection between a feeding point of the helix conductor and a microstrip line of a microstrip feed network. The uniform and tapered helix turns are respectively wrapped around the uniform and tapered sections, which enables impedance matching, axial mode excitation, gain and radiation patterns, and damping out of standing waves generated in current distribution over the helix conductor. Conductive composite cups surrounding each helical element reduces mutual coupling in array environment. Thus, the helical element and the array antenna achieve low on-axis and off-axis axial ratio performance over the wideband for global coverage.
US09444143B2	Antenna and wireless IC device An antenna includes two feeding points, and includes a loop-shaped loop electrode and an auxiliary electrode electrically connected to the loop electrode and located at a position along the outer circumference of the loop electrode. The first end portion of the auxiliary electrode is electrically connected to the vicinity of one feeding point of the loop electrode. The second end portion of the auxiliary electrode is open. A resonant circuit is defined by the auxiliary electrode and the loop electrode to enhance the impedance of the antenna, compared with a case in which the antenna is configured using the simple loop electrode, and it is easy to achieve impedance matching with the wireless IC.
US09444142B2	Dual band antenna and wireless communication device employing same A dual band antenna includes a first radiating portion, a second radiating portion, and a resonating portion. The first radiating portion includes a first feeding arm that feeds first signals at a first frequency band. The second radiating portion is positioned spaced apart from the first radiating portion. The second radiating portion includes a second feeding arm that feeds second signals at a second frequency band. The resonating portion is connected between the first radiating portion and the second radiating portion. The resonating portion resonates with the first and second radiating portions to generate two different frequency bands, so that the dual band antenna receives and sends wireless signals at the first and second frequency bands.
US09444138B2	Link quality to static and non-static devices In some aspects, the disclosure is directed to methods and systems for transmitting to static and non-static devices. An access point having a plurality of antennas can send a plurality of sounding frames from the plurality of antennas to a plurality of devices. The access point can identify, based on responses to the plurality of sounding frames, at least one static device from the plurality of devices. The access point can assign, based on the responses to the plurality of sounding frames, to each of the at least one static device, a corresponding one of the plurality of antennas for operation in a directional mode for transmissions to the corresponding static device, and the remaining antennas from the plurality of antennas for operation in an omnidirectional mode.
US09444133B2	Antenna pattern frame, method and mold for manufacturing the same, electronic device case having antenna pattern frame embedded therein, and method for manufacturing the same An antenna pattern frame includes an antenna radiator receiving an external signal and transmitting the received external signal to an electronic device, a radiator frame having the antenna radiator on a surface thereof, and a guide boss protruding from the radiator frame and preventing the radiator frame from moving vertically in a mold for manufacturing an electronic device case having an inner space having a shape corresponding to that of an electronic device case.

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