| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07874792B2 |
Blade outer air seals, cores, and manufacture methods
A blade outer air seal (BOAS) casting core has first and second end portions and a plurality of legs. Of these legs, first legs each have: a proximal end joining the first end portion; a main body portion; and a free distal portion. Second legs each have: a proximal end joining the second end portion; a main body portion; and a free distal portion. |
| US07874790B2 |
Convex sealing bottom for a twin-shaft turbine
Convex sealing bottom (10) for a twin-shaft turbine of the type comprising a series of convex disks constrained to each other by means of a series of pins, each disk of said disks comprises an outer shaped edge which is engaged with a corresponding annular surface (71) of an inner grooved surface (72) of a ring (70) for obtaining an axial seal.The series of disks comprises three disks, a first disk (12), a second disk (13) and a third disk (14) respectively.The three disks are fixed to each other centrally by means of a series of spokes (30) and are constrained in pairs respectively by means of a series of pins which are arranged orthogonally to the three disks to minimize the relative movements of the three disks in an axial direction at the same time allowing the radial dilatations of the three disks themselves. |
| US07874788B2 |
Flow enhancement for underwater turbine
A flow enhancement improvement for an underwater turbine generator (10) is disclosed wherein a longitudinal hole (240) is disposed in the central area (26), typically a hub (20) of the generator (10), and a second, augmentor duct (41), preferably rigid, is disposed about the outer duct (40) or housing of the unit to create a slot (200) area. The slot (200) and hollow hub (20) create areas of smooth, laminar fluid flow. The leading edges of the hub (20) or central ring and the augmentor (41) and outer ducts (40) are elliptical to enhance the fluid dynamics of the structure. |
| US07874787B2 |
Vertical axis wind turbine system
A vertical axis wind turbine system includes a vertical shaft rotatably mounted about a vertical axis and an upper platen coupled to the vertical shaft. Vanes are coupled to the vertical shaft and extend downward from the upper platen. Each vane has a concave face and an opposing convex face. A lower platen is coupled to the vertical shaft and to each vane. The lower platen has an opening formed therein proximate to the concave face of each vane. A plenum is disposed below the vertical axis wind turbine and is rotatably mounted about the shaft for rotation about the vertical axis. The plenum includes a top portion disposed proximate to the lower platen and has an outlet port therein. The outlet port is in fluid communication with at least one of the lower platen openings. A plenum passage provides fluid communication between a plenum inlet and the outlet port. |
| US07874784B2 |
Attachment for a forklift
An accessory for a forklift vehicle is described herein. The accessory is designed to attach to the forklift vehicle using the original forks of the forklift vehicle. The accessory provides additional forks, attached to a base bar that is wider than the width of the forklift vehicle and the original forks of the forklift vehicle. The wider forks of the accessory exist on a plane parallel to but lower than the original forks, wherein the original forks are used solely for the connection of the attachment to the forklift vehicle, and will not be in direct contact with the lifted load when the accessory is used. Only the additional forks provided by the accessory are in direct contact with the load lifted by the forklift vehicle. The wider forks provided by the forklift accessory allow the forklift to handle wider loads with ease. |
| US07874783B2 |
Multi-chamber vacuum processing and transfer system
An apparatus for processing a work piece in a vacuum environment includes a master process chamber that can be exhausted to a sub-atmospheric air pressure or to be filled with a desirable gas, a transfer chamber configured to receive the work piece from outside of the master process chamber, one or more processing stations inside the master process chamber, a rotation plate configured to receive the work piece and to move the work piece to receive one or more processing operations, and a first transport mechanism configured to transfer the work piece from the transfer chamber on to the rotation plate. The transfer chamber is at least partially enclosed in the master process chamber and can be vacuum sealed off from the master process chamber. |
| US07874781B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus
A substrate processing apparatus includes a plurality of process chambers (20) for applying a process to substrate accommodated therein and a conveyance case (24) that conveys the accommodated substrates to the process chambers (20) and a transfer mechanism that moves the conveyance case (24) along a moving path. The conveyance case accommodates the substrates in an isolated state from an external atmosphere. The plurality of process chambers (20) are arranged in an aligned state on both sides of a moving path of the conveyance case (24). The conveyance case (24) has two conveyance ports (24a) in response to conveyance ports (20a) of the process chambers (20) arranged in alignment in two rows. |
| US07874776B1 |
Clinch for a circuit card ejector
A clinch suitable for an ejector of a line card is provided. The clinch includes a cylinder, which includes a shoulder flange, an extension portion and a plurality of knurls. The shoulder flange extends radially from a first end of the cylinder, and the extension portion is formed at a second end of the cylinder. The knurls are formed at the second end surrounding the extension portion. |
| US07874772B2 |
Milling spindle of machine tool
The invention provides an improved drain structure of a cutting fluid supplied to a spindle of a milling spindle. The milling spindle 100 comprises a spindle 20 supported within a housing via a bearing 16, and a drawbar 24 having a through coolant passage 22. The cutting fluid C1 passing through the rotary joint 40 and 50 is sent to the through coolant passage 22, but a portion thereof is collected in a drain chamber 110. When the pressure within the drain chamber rises, the drain device 150 pushes open the ball 160 resisting against the spring 170, and the cutting fluid C1 is discharged to the exterior. |
| US07874770B2 |
Indexable insert
A indexable insert (1) of the present invention has a structure including at least a rake face (2) and a bearing surface (5), the indexable insert (1) including a substrate and a coating layer disposed on the substrate, wherein the coating layer includes one or more layers, and at least one layer of the one or more layers covers the entire surface of the substrate and satisfies the relationship F1 |
| US07874765B2 |
Ballast weight having reduced removal resistance and increased gripping features for improving emergency weight-dropping
A diving weight apparatus has a solid, body with a curved outer conformation. An elongated aperture extends through the body between a front and a back surfaces. The elongated aperture is large enough to accept two fingers of a person's hand therein when the two fingers are arranged in side-by-side positions. A pouch accepts the body and is likewise curved. A diving vest accepts the pouch an is likewise curved. |
| US07874763B2 |
Burner for paving apparatus
A heating head for a paving apparatus includes a substantially cylindrical head housing, having a top housing edge axially spaced from a bottom housing edge, a sidewall having a spiral cross-sectional shape and a laterally extending top housing cover attached to at least a portion of the top housing edge. The head housing defines an air chamber and is adapted to accept and direct airflow through the heating head. The sidewall defines an intake vent at a radially outward end and an air chamber inlet at a radially inward end. The intake vent and air chamber inlet are spaced apart and in mutual fluid communication via an elongated circumferentially extending air passage to direct airflow from an exterior of the heating head to the air chamber. |
| US07874758B2 |
Binding device
A binding device having a binding member that operates at a binding position of objects to be bound has a structure with which the bound objects do not readily come off. The binding device includes a board having a bearing plate. A spring member and an operation lever are attached to a shaft inserted in the bearing plate and a turned-up part. Protruding pieces of a binding member are inserted in through holes of turned-up parts formed in the board. One end of the spring member is secured to the operation lever, and the other end is fitted in a through hole of a turned portion at the distal end of the binding member. By closing the operation lever, the binding member rotates around a line connecting the protruding pieces at both ends, thereby pressing down sheets of paper placed on the board with a pressing portion. At this time, the other end of the spring member presses the turned portion, thereby biasing the pressing portion. |
| US07874756B2 |
Kit for the application of a fluid preparation
Kit for applying a fluid onto a surface and method using the kit. The kit includes a fluid having a yield point, a fluid container having at least one opening, and an applicator element having one or more porous areas for applying the fluid to a surface. The applicator element is located on the at least one opening of the container. The at least one porous area of the applicator element is in contact with the fluid. The fluid wets the at least one porous area of the applicator element but does not leak out of it as long as the porous area is not in contact with the surface. A porosity of the at least one porous area of the applicator element is related to the yield point of the fluid or vice versa. |
| US07874753B2 |
Dispenser for a cosmetic, cleansing or pharmaceutical composition
A dispenser for cosmetic, cleansing or pharmaceutical composition including a tubular sleeve for housing the whole of a movable sub-assembly in the storage position thereof in such a way that the head of the movable sub-assembly is not accessible. A locking mechanism prevents outward movement of the movable sub-assembly in the storage position relative to the sleeve. When a user axially depresses the head in the opposite direction to the outward direction, the locking mechanism releases the movable sub-assembly, which is urged outward by a spring at least as a position I which the head projects outward from the sleeve. |
| US07874752B2 |
Printer
It is intended to provide a printer which can prevent dust from entering and adhering to a printing medium, thereby avoiding entry of the dust to or near a print head, and can improve print quality. A first cover covers a first paper projection port through which paper as the printing medium is projected when the paper is inside a housing. This can prevent the entry of the dust through the first paper projection port to the housing. Furthermore, the first cover swings about a first engagement portion by pressure of a front end of the paper to cover the paper when the paper is projected through the first paper projection port in the forward feeding motion by the feeding device such as a paper feeding roller. |
| US07874748B2 |
Photo development apparatus and method for fabricating a color filter substrate using the same
A photo development apparatus for use in fabricating a color filter substrate for a display panel is disclosed. The disclosed photo apparatus includes a development solution supplier to supply a negative development solution. The photo apparatus also includes a first photo apparatus to form a positive photo-resist pattern to be used in forming a black matrix, wherein the positive photo-resist pattern is formed by patterning a light shielding layer formed on a substrate using the negative development solution and a positive photo-resist. |
| US07874745B2 |
Lock mechanism, slide apparatus, and mobile handset apparatus
A lock mechanism for a sliding object includes a slide arm, a rotating lever, and urging means. When an external pressing force presses the slide arm member in opposition to an urging force imparted by the urging means, the slide arm member is moved along a slide path, thereby causing the rotating lever member to rotate. When the slide arm member is pressed further, the tip of the rotating lever member rides onto and is stopped against the lateral surface of the slide arm member, such that the slide arm member and the rotating lever member remain stopped at the current position even if the pressing force is released. |
| US07874744B2 |
Privacy ensuring camera enclosure
A privacy ensuring camera enclosure with a camera enclosing configuration and a surveillance configuration wherein the camera enclosing configuration entirely surrounds a surveillance camera such that it is visibly removed from a privacy sensitive area, thereby preserving the expected level of privacy in the privacy sensitive area; the enclosure is configured to dynamically change from the camera enclosing configuration to the surveillance configuration in response to a heightened threat level. |
| US07874740B2 |
Housing for optical waveguide ferrule
A housing (10) for an optical waveguide ferrule (12), includes first distance elements (22, 28) being determinative for a distance between two adjacently arranged housings (10) and being formed by formations of the housing (10), the first distance elements (22, 28) being located opposite each other with respect to one of a center axis (M) of the housing (10) and the optical waveguide ferrule (12) arranged in the housing (10), and the first distance elements (22, 28) being formed by a pair of first distance elements of a first type (22) and a second type (28) differing from the first type (22). |
| US07874738B2 |
Fiber connector and adapter
Fiberoptic connector and adapter assembly includes a fiberoptic connector received within an adapter. The connector has a cover on the connector housing. The cover pivots between open and closed positions to expose or cover, respectively, a optical fiber contained within the connector. Longitudinal guides of the connector are received cooperating with longitudinal guides of the adapter to direct the connector into the adapter in a prescribed alignment. A cam pin is carried on the adapter to engage a cam pin receiving slot on the cover to urge the cover to the open position as the connector is inserted into the adapter. |
| US07874737B2 |
Tapered roller bearing and automotive pinion shaft supporting apparatus utilizing same tapered roller bearing
A tapered roller bearing according to the invention is such that when an arithmetical mean roughness as a surface roughness of a large end face of a tapered roller is σ1 and an arithmetical mean roughness as a surface roughness of a large rib surface of an inner ring is σ2, σ1 is 0.04 μm or larger, and a composite roughness that is expressed by a square root of a sum of a squared value of σ1 and a squared value of σ2 is 0.17 μm or smaller. Raceway surfaces of an outer ring and the inner ring and a rolling contact surface of the tapered roller are crowned, and a total crowning amount is set to 50 μm or larger, an outer ring crowning rate is set to 40% or larger, and a roller crowning rate is set to 20% or smaller. |
| US07874733B2 |
Rolling bearing
To provide a rolling bearing assembly, in which a grease filled within the bearing assembly is utilized to achieve a high speed feature, a long life and a maintenance-free and a lubricant oil can be stably supplied from a minute gap, a stepped face continued from the raceway surface is provided in a stationary raceway ring unit of an inner and outer ring units in a direction away from rolling elements. A gap forming piece having a free end confronting the stepped face is provided to define therebetween a flow passage and a grease reservoir communicated with the flow passage. The rolling bearing assembly is so designed that a heat cycle can be induced in the grease reservoir and, base oil of the grease can be urged to flow out from the gap by the effect of a pressure variation caused by the temperature rise. |
| US07874731B2 |
Valve for a recloseable container
A valve for a reclosable container comprises first and second opposing layers of a film material, wherein an overlap region of the second layer overlaps the container, and the first layer is sealed to the second layer around a portion of the second layer. The second layer is sealed to the container around a periphery of the overlap region, and opposing surfaces of the first and second layers form a substantially airtight seal therebetween upon direct contact of the layers. First and second offset apertures extend through the first and second layers, respectively. One of the first and second apertures is in fluid communication with an interior of the container and the other of the first and second apertures is in fluid communication with an exterior of the container. Vacuum pressure disposed over both of the first and second apertures causes the first layer to separate from the second layer to allow air to exhaust from the container. |
| US07874730B2 |
Systems and methods for reducing a degradation effect on a signal
Systems and methods for reducing a degradation effect on a signal are described. One of the methods includes pre-processing data based on a scan of a reference object and a scan of a substance. The reference object includes a material having an atomic number ranging from and including forty to sixty. |
| US07874729B2 |
General imaging system
To automate positioning operation of an X-ray tube so as to reduce the inspection time. Anatomical program selection means selects a surgery method/imaging object portion so that an imaging condition stored as an anatomical program in advance is called out and set in an X-ray generation device. Here, when an operation switch is pressed, control means moves drive means built in X-ray irradiation means parallel movement holding means and X-ray irradiation means rotation holding means so as to obtain the positional relationship between an X-ray tube and an FPD stored in correspondence with the anatomical program (such as SID and incident angle). The position of the FPD should be matched with the examinee. However, since the positional relationship between the X-ray tube and the FPD is almost constant in accordance with the surgery method/imaging object portion, it is possible to reduce the time required for positioning the X-ray tube by using this configuration. |
| US07874727B2 |
Control method for guided movement of an X-ray examination system
According to the invention, an X-ray examination may be simply and rapidly carried out and hence produce a sharp X-ray image with an X-ray source and/or X-ray receiver an X-ray examination system which may be displaced relative to the mounting position thereof by means of an actuator, despite a system construction which may be caused to oscillate at a resonant frequency dependent on the corresponding mounting position, about the mounting position, whereby according to the inventive method, at least one parameter relevant to the resonant frequency, dependent on the corresponding mounting position, is determined, a set guided movement, counteracting the cause of oscillation in order to achieve a movement condition for the X-ray source or X-ray receiver necessary for the X-ray examination, is determined depending on the at least one corresponding parameter and the guided movement of the X-ray source and/or X-ray receiver controlled using the actuator according to the set guided movement. |
| US07874726B2 |
Thermocouple
A thermocouple having a support tube configured to receive a pair of wires of dissimilar metals. The pair of wires of the thermocouple connected at a junction adjacent to one end of the support tube. The thermocouple further including a cap attached to the opposing end of the support tube, wherein the cap receives the free ends of the pair of wires. The cap allowing the pair of wires to translate freely therethrough to accommodate the difference in thermal expansion and contraction of the pair of wires relative to the thermal expansion and contraction of the support tube. |
| US07874725B2 |
Optical fiber temperature distribution measuring apparatus, method for measuring optical fiber temperature distribution, and optical fiber temperature distribution measuring system
An optical fiber temperature distribution measuring apparatus and a method for measuring optical fiber temperature distribution, provided with a light source for inputting a pulse light to an optical fiber to be measured, a signal detecting unit for detecting a received light intensity of a predetermined light included in a backscattering light generated by an input of the pulse light in the optical fiber to be measured, and a signal processing unit for calculating a value corresponding to a variation of the received light intensity due to a hydrogen molecular absorption of the optical fiber to be measured based on the received light intensity of the predetermined light, to compensate the received light intensity of the predetermined light corresponding to a temperature of the optical fiber to be measured based on the value. |
| US07874723B2 |
Method of rapidly determining the MFR in the high-pressure polymerization ethylene
Method of determining the melt mass flow rate of an ethylene polymer in the polymerization of ethylene or of ethylene with further comonomers, which is carried out at temperatures of from 140° C. to 350° C. and pressures of from 40 MPa to 350 MPa in a reactor to form the ethylene polymer and the ethylene polymer is subsequently cooled in a heat exchanger, which comprises: a) establishment of a correlation between the thermal conductivity of the ethylene polymer in the heat exchanger and the melt mass flow rate of the ethylene polymer, with the individual measurements each being carried out at an essentially constant melt mass flow rate, b) measurement of the thermal conductivity of an ethylene polymer in the heat exchanger c) calculation of the melt mass flow rate from the thermal conductivity measured in b) and the correlation established in a). |
| US07874721B2 |
Mixing element
To minimize an amount of unmixed fluids remaining inside, the mixing element includes right-handed and left-handed spiral blades (1) having a shape twisted 180 degrees and being alternately and continuously provided in the axial direction to make end parts (1a) of the adjacent spiral blades to orthogonally cross, turbulence generating parts (1c) divided by an extension face (1ca) ad a rising face (1cb) are formed at four portions, which continue toward a front-side side edge (1aL1) and an outer periphery at a part spirally continuing to the back side from the front-side side edge (1aL1) and are surrounded by a front-side end edge (1cL1), an axial-side edge (1cL2) and a front-side edge (1cR1), and an inflow part (1d) formed by notching a portion from an end-part starting edge to a back-side end edge is formed at a back-side side edge opposed to positions of the turbulence generating part (1c). |
| US07874718B2 |
System, device, and method for mixing liquids
A system, device, and method for mixing liquids involves pumping a first liquid into a first pump chamber of a pumping apparatus through a channel of the pumping apparatus and pumping a second liquid from a second pump chamber of the pumping apparatus into either the channel or the first pump chamber, preferably while the first liquid is being pumped into the first pump chamber, so that the two liquids are mixed within the pumping apparatus. The second liquid is preferably pumped in a pulsatile mode in which small quantities of the second liquid are pumped at intervals. The quantity and/or the interval can be dynamically adjusted to result in a predetermined concentration of the two liquids. The contents of the first pump chamber are pumped to a receptacle. |
| US07874717B1 |
Night light
A night light design which allows for improved functionality over those heretofore available. The basic design is flexible enough to be adapted for either indoor or outdoor use, and for various brightness levels. Particularly for outdoor use, bulbs of up to 15 watts can be used, providing an increased illumination level. All designs preferably include a light sensing element and a control circuit, wherein the light turns itself on when the ambient lighting levels fall low enough. Also, several preferred embodiments include a variable control, wherein the brightness of the night light can be continuously varied between very dim and full brightness. |
| US07874716B2 |
Illumination device
An illumination device includes a light-pervious substrate, a solid-state light source and at least one solar cell. The substrate has a bottom surface, a light incident surface adjacent to the bottom surface, and a light emitting surface opposite to the bottom surface. The solid-state light source is arranged on the light incident surface for emitting light into the substrate through the light incident surface. The at least one solar cell is arranged on the bottom surface of the substrate to absorb and convert solar energy into electric energy and supply the electric energy to the solid-state light source. |
| US07874707B2 |
Recessed lighting fixture
A lighting fixture comprising a reflector 100 and a double-ended elongate lamp 200, the reflector body comprising a casing (110) with a specular cavity having an apex and an aperture rim, wherein the lamp end portions (220, 220′) of the double-ended lamp are enclosed in slots (131, 131′) located in the casing at opposite sides of the aperture rim and substantially flush with the aperture rim, is extremely flat and slim and therefore useful as a recessed down-light in a shelf, a ceiling, or a wall panel. |
| US07874697B2 |
Lamp
The invention relates to a lamp with a first light source generating white light, comprising at least one fluorescent lamp (2) or an incandescent lamp, as well as a second light source comprising at least one set of light-emitting diodes (4, 5; 300), and comprising a reflector (1) for the light emitted by the light sources, wherein a cooling device (6, 7) for the at least one set of light-emitting diodes (4, 5) is attached to the reflector (1) and is thermally linked to the at least one set of light-emitting diodes (4, 5), and wherein the lamp comprises a translucent and light-dispersing medium (3) in the optical path of the light emitted by the lamp. |
| US07874694B2 |
Digital tool with a light display
A digital tool with a light display comprises at least one light display assembly. The light display assembly includes four or more light-emitting elements to cooperate with a light-transmitting element. The light display assembly can be the whole or a part of a handle sleeve. Therefore, by cooperating with a compare unit and a control unit, under the predetermined condition, the light-emitting elements can emit light through the light-emitting area synchronously or alternately. |
| US07874689B2 |
Display device
A display device includes: a display element for showing information as a screen image; and an ornamental member disposed on a display surface of the display element and having a shape corresponding to the screen image. The ornamental member includes a light transparent element and a light nontransparent element. The screen image includes a designed image on a position of the display surface corresponding to the light transparent element. The display element outputs a screen image light from the display surface. The screen image light corresponding to the designed image passes through the light transparent element so that the screen image light is outputted from the ornamental member to the display side. |
| US07874687B1 |
Multi-function side detent for vehicular mirror
A vehicular exterior mirror assembly comprises a base assembly adapted for fixed attachment to an exterior portion of the vehicle and a reflective element assembly pivotally attached to the base assembly and supported thereby. A pivot member having a perimeter wall is interposed between the base assembly and the reflective element assembly and defines an axis of rotation between the base assembly and the reflective element assembly. A side-acting detent assembly is mounted to one of the base assembly and the reflective element assembly, and has a side-acting detent assembly member positioned to exert a force against the perimeter wall of the pivot member normal to the axis of rotation. One of the pivot member and the side-acting detent assembly member comprises at least one indentation and the other of the pivot member and the side-acting detent assembly member comprises a bearing element. The reflective element assembly can be pivoted relative to the base assembly against the force exerted by the side-acting detent assembly member and, when the bearing element engages with the at least one indentation, the reflective element assembly will be held in a position defined by the at least one indentation relative to the base assembly by said force. |
| US07874686B2 |
Reflective marker and method for its manufacture
A reflective marker and method for manufacturing reflective marker, wherein the reflective marker includes an inner body and a reflective covering, and a reflective substance is applied to the inner body and forms the reflective covering together with pellets contained in the substance or applied after the substance has been applied. |
| US07874681B2 |
Interactive projector system and method
An interactive image projecting device that projects an image onto a display surface and controls the projected image based upon movement of the image projecting device or the detection of another image. The image projecting device includes a projector that generates an image from a control unit. The device includes a position indicating emitter that generates a position indicator and an image sensor that is operable to detect the position indicator from either the device including the image sensor or a position indicator from another device. Based upon the sensed position indicator from another device, the control unit operates to modify the image projected from the device such that the image from a first device can interact with an image from a second device. The first and second devices each have a wireless transceiver such that the devices can communicate with each other during operation. |
| US07874680B2 |
Projector that displays an image using laser beams
A projector includes: a light source unit which supplies coherent light; a spatial light modulating unit which modulates the coherent light supplied from the light source unit according to an image signal; a projection optical system which projects light modulated by the spatial light modulating unit; and a light shifting unit disposed on an optical path of the projection optical system to shift light in a direction substantially perpendicular to an optical axis. |
| US07874678B2 |
Projected autostereoscopic lenticular 3-D system
An autostereoscopic 3-D image is provided in a viewing zone without the need for 3-D glasses by use of one or more projectors that project two or more images having projected exit pupils separated horizontally by no more than an average human interocular spacing onto a 3-D forming screen (which is a lenticular or a raster barrier screen) with a substantially smooth and nominally white back projection surface and a front side with multiple individual vertical elements that project left and right images so that the 3-D forming screen retro-reflects projected light on the screen received from a light source back to the light source. |
| US07874677B2 |
Stereo projection optical system
A stereo projection optical system includes a polarizing beam splitter, a 2-way wheel, a digital micro-mirror device, and a total internal reflection prism. The polarizing beam splitter is configured for emitting two light outputs. The 2-way wheel includes a reflective region and a transmissive region. The reflective region is configured for reflecting the light outputs and the transmissive region is configured for transmitting the light outputs. The digital micro-mirror device is configured for superimposing spatial information on the light outputs. The total internal reflection prism configured for coupling the light outputs of the 2-way wheel into the digital micro-mirror device and transmitting a light output of the digital micro-mirror device. The stereo projection optical systems provide viewers three-dimensional images formed by two alternative polarized light beams whose polarizations are perpendicular to each other utilizing the 2-way wheel. |
| US07874673B2 |
Progressive power lens and method of designing the same
A progressive power lens that prevents degradation in optical characteristics invited by deviation of a pantoscopic angle from the standard value. The lens includes an outer refractive surface and an inner refractive surface, at least one of which is a progressive surface. Because the amount and direction of aberrations generated in distance and near portions are different, correction is given to either or both of the surface powers of the outer and inner surfaces of the lens such that the distance and near portions are differently corrected. |
| US07874671B2 |
Method of transferring a micron-scale pattern onto an optical article, and optical article obtained thereby
A pattern (P) is transferred onto an optical article (1) in the form of one or more portions of a transferable material (3, 4b) retained by a layer of latex (2). The portion or portions of transferable material are applied with a stamp after the layer of latex has been formed on the article and before the latex is dry. By using latex as the adhesive material, the nature of the transferable material may vary widely. Such a method is particularly suitable for producing patterns such as holograms on optical lenses, especially ophthalmic lenses. The layer of latex may also protect the product against shocks which may subsequently be received. |
| US07874668B2 |
Eyeglasses with interchangeable nose pad
An eyeglass frame (10), the eyeglass frame (10) being usable for supporting a first lens (12) and a second lens (14), the eyeglass frame (10) comprising: a first rim (16) and a second rim (18), the first and second rims (16 and 18) being provided for supporting respectively the first and second lenses (12 and 14); a bridge (19) attaching the first and second rims (16 and 18) to each other; and a nose pad (20) removably attachable to the first rim (16); the first rim (16) defining a nose pad attachment (24) for removably attaching the nose pad (24) thereto, the nose pad attachment (24) being deformable between a locked configuration in which the nose pad (20) is fixedly attached to the nose pad attachment (24) and an unlocked configuration in which the nose pad (20) is movable relative to the nose pad attachment (24) for selectively attaching the nose pad (20) to the nose pad attachment (24) and detaching the nose pad (20) from the nose pad attachment (24); the first rim (16) being deformable between a lens supporting configuration in which the first rim (16) is able to support the first lens (12) and a deformed configuration, the deformed configuration being achievable when the first rim (16) is deprived of the first lens (16); wherein when the first rim (16) is in the lens supporting configuration, the nose pad attachment (24) is in the locked configuration and when the first rim (16) is in the deformed configuration, the nose pad attachment (24) is in the unlocked configuration. |
| US07874665B2 |
Printer having nested media trays
A printer is provided having a media tray, a printhead, and a delivery passage extending from a base of the printer to the printhead past the media tray via which media is supplied from the media tray to the printhead. The base is configured to be received in a recessed region of an upper surface of a first auxiliary media tray in a nested arrangement. The base has a first opening for delivering first auxiliary media supplied by the first auxiliary tray into the delivery passage. A lower surface of the first auxiliary tray is configured to be received in a recessed region of an upper surface of a second auxiliary media tray in a nested arrangement. The lower surface has a second opening for delivering second auxiliary media supplied by the second auxiliary tray into the delivery passage via an auxiliary delivery passage of the first auxiliary tray. |
| US07874663B2 |
Inkjet recording method and inkjet recording apparatus
The present invention provides: an inkjet recording method comprising: applying an undercoating liquid on a recording medium, the undercoating liquid containing at least one surfactant in an amount of from 0.001% to the critical micelle concentration, the surfactant achieving a surface tension of 25 mN/m or smaller when dissolved in 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate at a critical micelle concentration; semi-curing the applied undercoating liquid; and recording an image by ejecting an ink onto the semi-cured undercoating liquid, the ink being curable by irradiation with an actinic ray; and an inkjet recording apparatus. |
| US07874659B2 |
Cartridge with printhead and media feed mechanism for mobile device
A cartridge for use in a mobile device including: (a) an inkjet printhead; (b) a print media feed path for directing print media past the printhead in a feed direction during printing; and (c) a drive mechanism for driving the print media past the inkjet printhead for printing. |
| US07874652B2 |
Liquid transporting apparatus and ink-jet printer
A liquid transporting apparatus includes a channel unit in which a plurality of pressure chambers are provided, and a piezoelectric actuator which changes individually a volume of each of the pressure chambers. The piezoelectric actuator includes a vibration plate, a piezoelectric body provided on one surface of the vibration plate, and electrodes which apply an electric voltage to the piezoelectric body. The other surface of the vibration plate is joined to the channel unit to close openings of the pressure chambers, and the one surface of the vibration plate includes an uncovered area which is not covered with the piezoelectric body. Since a heater is provided in the uncovered area, and an electrode for applying an electric current is provided separately from the electrodes of the piezoelectric actuator, it is possible to operate the heater even when the piezoelectric actuator is being driven. |
| US07874648B2 |
Manufacturing method for piezoelectric body, piezoelectric element, and liquid discharge head
A method of manufacturing a piezoelectric body, formed from a film made of an ABO3 perovskite oxide crystal epitaxially grown on a substrate, includes forming a film containing an AOx crystal by using an oxide containing an A element and a B element by heating the substrate to a temperature which is equal to or higher than a temperature at which the AOx crystal is formed, and which is lower than a temperature at which the ABO3 perovskite oxide crystal is formed and changing the film containing the AOx crystal into a film made of the ABO3 perovskite oxide crystal by heating the substrate to a temperature which exceeds a temperature at which the AOx crystal can be present, and which is equal to or higher than a temperature at which the ABO3 perovskite oxide crystal is formed. |
| US07874643B2 |
Printhead assembly with parallel power input
A printhead assembly includes a printhead module including two or more printhead integrated circuits and an electrical connector for connecting electrical signals to the printhead integrated circuits. First and second power supplies are provided at first and second ends of the printhead assembly, the second end being opposite to the first end. The printhead assembly further includes a plurality of electrical conductors for providing power to the printhead integrated circuits from the first and second power supplies. The plurality of electrical conductors extend transverse to a media feed path defined through the printhead assembly. The plurality of electrical connectors are arranged as first and second groups of electrical conductors, the first and second groups having a combined lengths at least equal to a width of the media feed path. The first group of electrical conductors is connected to the first power supply and extends from the first end of the printhead assembly to a region intermediate the ends of the printhead assembly. The second group of electrical conductors is connected to the second power supply and extends from the second end to connect to the first group at the region intermediate the first and second ends of the printhead assembly to supply power in parallel from both ends of the printhead assembly. The first group of electrical conductors has a staggered configuration, the staggered configuration adapted to overlap and mate with a complementary staggered configuration of the second group of electrical conductors. |
| US07874642B2 |
Recording apparatus having flexible wiring member portions of which overlap each other
A recording apparatus, including: a recording head having an actuator including first and second groups of terminals arranged in a direction; a flexible wiring member connected at one end thereof to the terminals and at the other end thereof to an external signal source and including first and second band-like regions which respectively correspond to the first and second groups of terminals and which extend generally in the direction, the first and second band-like regions respectively including first and second groups of wires disposed thereon and first and second connecting portions at the one end of the flexible wiring member which are respectively connected to the first and second groups of terminals, wherein at least a portion of one of the first and second band-like regions which extends from one of the first and second groups of terminals that is more distant from the other end of the flexible wiring member is disposed so as to overlap (a) the other of the first and second groups of terminals which is nearer to the other end of the flexible wiring member and (b) the other of the first and second band-like regions which extends from the other of the first and second groups of terminals. |
| US07874634B2 |
Image forming apparatus and image forming method
An image forming apparatus which forms a halftone image on a print medium (200) using multipass processing of reciprocally scanning a single area by an inkjet head (220) a plurality of number of times, forming dots in one of reciprocal scan operations, and moving the inkjet head (220) to a home position in the other reciprocal scan operation includes a print data generation unit (370) which generates print data of each print-scan operation, a printer engine (180) which prints a halftone image on the basis of the print data generated by the print data generation unit (370), and a sensor (230) which detects the state of printing in up to a print-scan operation immediately preceding a print-scan operation of interest. The print data generation unit (370) corrects print data in synchronism with printing by the printer engine (180) on the basis of the detected printing state. |
| US07874632B2 |
Ink jet printer
In order to settle a phenomenon that a quantity of jetted ink increases at the end of an image and a density increases in a shear-mode ink jet head, in a three-split driven head, a first group prints so that a diameter of a dot is reduced by reducing the quantity of jetted ink as dots at both ends, a second group similarly prints, and a third group also similarly prints. Since three dots at both ends in a main scanning direction of an acquired image are smaller than dots in the middle, the phenomenon that a quantity of jetted ink increases at the end of the image and density increases is reduced. |
| US07874631B2 |
Printhead integrated circuit with open actuator test
Provided is a printhead integrated circuit for an inkjet printer that has a nozzle and a corresponding actuator for ejecting ink through the nozzle. The Printhea IC also has drive circuitry for controlling the operation of the actuator. The drive circuitry has an open actuator test circuit comprising an open actuator test input, a column enable input and a row enable input, a drive transistor operatively linking said actuator to a power supply, a bleed transistor arranged in parallel with the actuator, a sense transistor operatively linking an output of the drive transistor and inputs of the actuator and bleed transistor to a sensing node. Actuating the actuator to eject ink by enabling the column and row enable inputs, deactivates the bleed transistor and activates the drive transistor to link the actuator to the power supply. Testing the actuator involves enabling the open actuator test input to activate the sense transistor, so that the actuator is short-circuited and the sense node is pulled high if the actuator is open-circuit. |
| US07874629B2 |
Printing apparatus, a method to indicate necessity of exchanging exchangeable parts, and a computer usable medium therefor
A printing apparatus for forming an image on fabric is provided. The printing apparatus includes a plurality of exchangeable fabric holders, a recording head, which is driven according to printable data including image information representing the image to be printed and holder information concerning a type of the fabric holder to be used for forming the image, an obtaining unit to obtain the printable data from external environment, a storage unit with a storage area to store the holder information extracted from the printable data, an examination unit to examine as to whether the holder information for a current printing operation is identical with the holder information for a previous printing operation stored in the storage area, and an indication unit, which indicates a result of the examination obtained by the examination unit to notify a user of necessity of exchanging the fabric holders. |
| US07874627B2 |
Assembly for connecting plates
An assembly for connecting plates is provided. A first plate has a first opening and a second opening; a metal wire is movably connected to one surface of the first plate, and the metal wire includes a bending portion corresponding to the position of the first opening; a spring connects the first plate and the metal wire; a pressing element is fixed on the metal wire and passes through the second opening of the first plate to protrude from the other surface of the first plate. The second plate has a hook. When the first plate and the second plate are assembled, the hook of the second plate passes through the first opening of the first plate, and the bending portion of the first plate prevents the hook from separating from the first opening by tension force of the spring thus to connect the first plate and the second plate. |
| US07874621B2 |
Seat-depth adjustable vehicle seat with a first seat part and a second seat part
The seat depth adjustable motor vehicle seat comprises a first seat part, a second seat part and a longitudinal adjustment device interposed between the first seat part and the second seat part and allowing for displacement movement in a first seat direction of the first seat part relative to the second seat part. The seat further comprises a toothed rack connected to the second seat part and extending substantially in the first seat direction. A primary gear meshes with the toothed rack. A secondary gear is in rotating communication with the primary gear. A toothed bar extends substantially in a second seat direction and engages the secondary gear. A third seat part is slidably disposed in the second seat direction and is connected to the toothed bar. |
| US07874614B2 |
System for mounting writing tablets to armchairs
A system for mounting writing tablets to armchairs includes a slide guide mounted inside the armrest of the armchair. The writing tablet is slidable on the slide guide between a concealed position inside the armrest and a projecting position outside the armrest. A support is rotatably attached to the armrest and includes an upper stop element that can be adjusted to ensure the writing tablet is horizontal when in use. |
| US07874613B2 |
Chair stabilizer and method of use
A chair stabilizer for preventing injury to children or others who might tip over chairs. A removable chair-engaging section is removably and adjustably couplable to a table-engaging section. Generally, the entire apparatus is free standing but in conjunction with a flat or available undersurface, the table-engaging portion prevents rearward rotation of the chair as the table-engaging portion comes into contact with the underside of the flat surface, such as a table when the chair-engaging section is rotated. As a result, vulnerable individuals including children and the infirm are protected from impact with the ground should the chair begin tipping as the table restrains the rotational motion of the chair. |
| US07874611B2 |
Scalable two-piece reinforcement and method for producing same
A two-piece reinforcement assembly and method for producing the same are provided. The two-piece reinforcement units include first and second half-members, preformed from respective single pieces of material. Assembled two-piece reinforcement units have half-members which are inverted and bonded together. Each of the two-piece reinforcement units includes at least one chamber defined by the bonded half-members. The reinforcement units further include a base portion and an offset portion which are connected by intersection portions on opposing ends of an angular portion. The half-members are bonded at their respective base portions. Each half-member further includes an end portion, which may be substantially perpendicular to the base portion. Further embodiments may include indentations in one of the intersections of the angular portion, and may be tapered along the angular portion from the base portion to the offset portion. |
| US07874609B2 |
Smooth unlatch system and method
A powered vehicle door system and method in which a motor-driven door opening and closing mechanism and a motor-driven latching mechanism cooperate to enable the door to open from a latched, fully-closed position with improved noise control and improved smoothness of operation. The door can be a tailgate or a swinging or sliding door, and the opening and closing mechanism is operative to place the door in an over-closed position, thus reducing or eliminating the inherent tension placed upon the latch from the compressive force of the seal interposed between the door and the door frame. Optionally, the door latching mechanism assists the door opening and closing mechanism in placing the door in the over-closed position. |
| US07874607B2 |
Vehicle seat configuration
A motor vehicle seat has an element formed of expanded polypropylene foam or of a material with comparable properties with respect to its firmness and weight provided between a seat part and a vehicle body floor, wherein the seat part is directly or indirectly connected to the vehicle body floor via the element formed of expanded polypropylene foam or of the material with comparable properties with respect to its firmness and weight, or the seat part is formed essentially of expanded polypropylene foam or of a material with comparable properties with respect to its firmness and weight and is directly or indirectly connected to the vehicle body floor. |
| US07874606B2 |
Utility vehicle
A utility vehicle includes a vehicle body frame, a pair of left and right front wheels and at least a pair of left and right rear wheels that are supported on the vehicle frame, a front seat that is provided to the rear of the front wheels, and a rear seat that is provided to the rear of the front seat and including an in-use position, a transition position, and a non-use position. A cargo bed, disposed to the rear of the front seat includes a bottom wall portion whereon the seat cushion portion of the rear seat is provided movably; a left side wall portion and a right side wall portion that are provided on the left and right side portions of the bottom wall portion, wherein the left side wall portion and the right side wall portion extend forward to the rear seat in its non-use position; and a rear wall portion that is provided at the rear end portion of the bottom wall portion. The utility vehicle further includes a rear floor provided between the front seat and the rear seat and lower than the bottom wall portion of the cargo bed. |
| US07874605B2 |
Utility vehicle
A utility vehicle includes a vehicle body frame including a left and right side portion, a front seat affixed to the vehicle body frame, and a rear seat affixed to the vehicle body frame provided to the rear of the front seat. The vehicle also includes a rear roof support structure including a left member and right pipe member that extend generally in the vertical direction from the vehicle body frame, disposed respectively at both the left and right side portions of the vehicle body frame to the rear of the rear seat. At least a downward direction portion of the left pipe member and right pipe member are positioned lower than a seating surface of a seat cushion portion of the rear seat and are angled so as to extend rearward as the left and right pipe members extend upward. A pair of rear wheels are supported by the vehicle body frame provided at a position that is below the seat cushion portion of the rear seat wherein, at least a portion thereof, is coincident with the rear seat and with the rear roof support structure in the front/back direction of the vehicle. |
| US07874603B2 |
Console retainer with integrated shifter retention
A console retainer mounts to a floor of a motor vehicle and receives a floor transmission shifter assembly. The shifter assembly has a forward end and a rearward end. The console retainer includes a frame portion for coupling to the floor and configured to receive at least one console trim piece. A pair of lateral side walls are integrally formed with the frame portion as a molded thermoplastic unit, wherein the lateral side walls are substantially parallel to delimit a mounting space for the shifter assembly therebetween, wherein the lateral side walls each have a forward retention feature for fixedly retaining the forward end of the shifter assembly, and wherein the lateral side walls each have a rearward retention feature for fixedly retaining the rearward end of the shifter assembly. |
| US07874601B2 |
Crash box for a vehicle
A crash box (11,12) is positioned high relative to the bumper beam (13) on, for example, an SUV. The underside (22) of the crash box has a profiled cross-section with upper (25,26) and lower (24) longitudinal portions. At least one upward profile portion (25,26) changes to being a downward-pointing profile portion (27,28) near to the outer end of the crash box, thereby increasing the vertical extent of the crash box. The underside of the crash box may have a hat profile which at its outer end changes to an inverted hat profile. |
| US07874599B2 |
Door lock apparatus for vehicles
The present invention provides a support structure for a latch actuating lever and a lock actuating lever, which realizes a small and compact door lock apparatus for vehicles. The door lock apparatus includes a latch mechanism for maintaining a vehicle door in a closed state relative to a vehicle body, a latch actuating link coupled to the latch mechanism and actuating the latch mechanism to place the vehicle door in an openable state relative to the vehicle body, a lock actuating link for connecting or disconnecting the latch actuating link to or from the latch mechanism and thus making the latch mechanism operable or inoperable when the latch actuating link is actuated, and a base unit for supporting the latch actuating link and the lock actuating link. The base unit includes an annular support and a support shaft held in the annular support. At least one latch actuating lever, constituting the latch actuating link, is rotatablely supported on either one of the annular support and the support shaft, and at least one lock actuating lever, constituting the lock actuating link, is rotatablely supported on the other one of the annular support and the support shaft. |
| US07874597B2 |
Automatic forward movement mechanism, sliding door mechanism, and drawer mechanism
A movable member moved forward to a predetermined position can automatically move further forward. The mechanism includes first and second connecting members provided in the movable member and an immovable member. The second connecting member includes a catcher for catching the first connecting member and an urging device for urging the catcher. The catcher is arranged to be able to move or relatively move along a moving direction of the movable member, and held in a waiting position while receiving an urging force by the urging device toward a forward movement direction or backward movement direction of the movable member. When the movable member is moved to the predetermined position, the first connecting member is retained by the catcher of the second connecting member, and upon releasing of retention, the movable member is automatically moved forward to the stopped position by the urging force. |
| US07874593B1 |
Rolls of image-customized value-bearing items and systems and methods for providing rolls of image-customized value-bearing items
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide image-customized postage labels, and systems and methods for providing image-customized postage labels, in rolls adapted for high-speed application to mail pieces. The output of the exemplary systems and methods of the present invention is one or more exemplary rolls of liner-backed, self-adhesive, image-customized postage labels per an order placed by a customer. Each of the exemplary rolls comprises a label roll core and an exemplary length of liner-backed, self-adhesive, image-customized postage labels rolled around the label roll core. |
| US07874591B2 |
Apparatus and method for canting a skier
An apparatus and method for canting a skier comprising a cant angle plate that locks on to the heel bearing surface of a ski binding. The cant angle plate has portions of varying thickness for inducing a cant angle when the heel of a boot rests on the cant angle plate locked on to the heel bearing surface of the binding. Thus, the cant angle plate alters the cant angle at which a boot supports a skier's foot and lower leg, relative to the longitudinal running surface or bottom plane of an attached ski. |
| US07874590B1 |
Safety belt
A safety belt includes a length adjuster for securement of one end of a belt webbing, with the length adjuster being constantly biased in a direction of retraction of the belt webbing. A locking mechanism, when rendered effective, inhibits the length adjuster from turning in a direction of protraction of the belt webbing and is operatively connected to a control unit which, when activated, applies a locking function to inhibit the belt member from being pulled out of the retractor and being retracted, thereby preventing a lengthening and shortening of the belt webbing. Operatively connected to the control unit is an actuator which is constructed to allow an occupant, upon actuation, to override the locking function and thereby render the locking mechanism ineffective to enable the occupant to adjust a length of the belt webbing. |
| US07874589B2 |
Seat belt retractor
To further reduce variation in the maximum limited load by a seat belt load limiting mechanism composed of a torsion bar and a shearing member. When a spool rotates in the belt withdrawing direction relative to the locking base, energy absorbing (EA) mechanism action only by shear deformation of shear pins is first conducted so that the entire EA load is only the EA load by the shear pins. After the EA load by the shear pins becomes the maximum EA load, the seat belt is withdrawn by a predetermined amount and the EA action by torsional deformation of a torsion bar is conducted in addition to the EA action by the shear pins. Since the EA action only by the shear pins is first conducted, it is possible to reduce variation in the maximum limited load during the shear deformation of the shear pins. |
| US07874588B2 |
Telescopically adjustable steering column assembly
A steering column assembly comprises an upper jacket, a lower jacket extending along a longitudinal axis, and a bushing apparatus disposed therebetween. The upper jacket and the lower jacket include a circular cross section. The bushing apparatus includes a first contact surface, a second contact surface and a third contact surface disposed radially about the longitudinal axis and equally spaced from each other. A compression device is coupled to one of the lower jacket and the upper jacket for applying a compressive force to the first contact surface. The second contact surface and the third contact surface resist the compressive force. The compression device is adjustable to vary a slip resistance between the bushing apparatus and one of the upper jacket and lower jacket. |
| US07874587B2 |
Glove box assembly exhibiting knee impact force transferring structure with respect to an associated vehicle dash/instrument panel and reinforcing bar and including removable strengthening ribs for tuning of crash safety characteristics
A glove box assembly incorporated into a vehicle instrument panel, along which extends a reinforcing bar. A three-dimensional and interiorly open receptacle is fixedly mounted within the instrument panel. The receptacle includes integrally formed structural projections extending from a rear side thereof and in a direction towards the reinforcing bar. A plurality of ribs are attached to the receptacle proximate the projections and in order to adjust a deformation characteristic of the receptacle. A bin secures within said glove box receptacle and includes a door exposed to adjoining surfaces of the instrument panel. Upon experiencing a collision event resulting in a passenger's knees impacting the door, inward deformation of the receptacle transfers forces both to the instrument panel and through deforming the reinforcing bar. |
| US07874586B2 |
Airbag folding arrangement
An airbag folding arrangement for an airbag that includes a housing, an inflation device, and an airbag deployable between a un-deployed and deployed state. The airbag includes a top panel, a bottom panel, a pair of side panels connecting the top panel and the bottom panels, and a crown panel that includes a central portion surrounded by a plurality of outer portions that connect the top panel, the bottom panel, and the pair of side panels. The top panel, bottom panel, and the side panels are radially folded in a direction toward the central portion of the crown panel and the outer portions of the crown panel are rolled in a direction toward the housing and toward the central portion when the airbag is in the un-deployed state such that the central portion is in direct communication with the inflation device. |
| US07874585B2 |
Airbag for a front passenger's seat
The airbag for a front passenger's seat includes an inner panel comprised of a pair of left and right base cloths. Each of the base cloths has a band shape curved in a generally C shape. A circumferential edge of a communication area communicating left and right shoulder restraining portions of the airbag is constituted by a joint portion joining inner edges of the respective base cloths together. The joint portion includes a corner area having a large curvature. Each of the base cloths includes a reinforcing portion at its inner edge for preventing the corner area from being so deformed as to reduce the curvature thereof upon airbag deployment. |
| US07874583B2 |
Airbag arrangement
An airbag arrangement for a vehicle occupant restraint system includes an inflatable airbag having at least one outflow opening through which gas can flow out of the airbag. The airbag arrangement also includes a stretchable element including a covering structure for adjustably covering a portion of the outflow opening. The covering structure moves relative to the outflow opening when the stretchable element is stretched. The airbag arrangement also includes a fastener for fastening the stretchable element to the airbag so the stretchable element stretches when the airbag inflates and the covering structure moves relative to the outflow opening changing the size of the covered portion of the outflow opening. |
| US07874582B2 |
Child seat installation structure with seat belt having expandable portion
A child seat installation structure is disclosed in which it is prevented that an expandable portion, when it expands, interferes with a child seat. In one form, an airbelt includes a lap bag and a normal belt portion, a tip of which is connected to the lap bag. A bracket for fixing a tip side of the normal belt portion is provided on a lap anchor. A loop portion is formed on the tip side of the normal belt portion using a clip, and the loop portion is inserted into a fixing hole provided in the bracket and is locked with a lock member. After that, a child seat is placed on a seat, and only the normal belt portion is routed over the child seat. |
| US07874574B2 |
Arrangement for retaining an airbag housing and cover
An arrangement for retaining a cover to an airbag housing, including a reaction housing. The retaining arrangement includes a removable retainer ring, a plurality of cover tabs extending outwardly from a surface of the cover, and a plurality of housing tabs extending outwardly from a surface of the reaction housing. The plurality of cover tabs and housing tabs are positioned such that each cover tab will align with and abut a corresponding housing tab when the cover is engaged with the air bag housing. The retainer ring includes openings positioned to receive the plurality of cover tabs and housing tabs. The plurality of cover tabs and housing tabs are biased into the openings in the retainer ring to removably secure the reaction housing to the cover. |
| US07874572B2 |
Towable impact attenuator
A crash attenuator includes a crash cushion having a front end, a rear end, and a trailer hitch component disposed adjacent the front end. The trailer hitch component is capable of being secured to a mating hitch component located on the towing vehicle, such that hitch components are capable of being rotated relative to each other about a substantially vertical axis. The crash attenuator further includes at least one wheel supporting the crash cushion. The wheel is rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis and is spaced rearwardly from the substantially vertical axis. The crash attenuator further includes at least one restraint element operable between at least a disengaged condition, wherein the crash cushion is capable of rotating about the substantially vertical axis, and an engaged condition, wherein the at least one restraint element constrains rotation of the crash cushion about the substantially vertical axis. |
| US07874571B2 |
Trailer with four wheel steering and independent suspension
A trailer having a frame extending along a longitudinal axis and having a front end and a rear end, a steering linkage coupled to the frame, a pair of front wheel assemblies coupled to the front end of the frame, and a pair of rear wheel assemblies coupled to the rear end of the frame. Each wheel assembly includes a wheel carrier having a pivot member pivotally coupled to the frame along a steering axis, the wheel carrier being coupled to the steering linkage so that actuation of the steering linkage pivots the wheel carrier about the steering axis, and a wheel rotatably coupled to the wheel carrier along a wheel axis. The wheel axis is oriented approximately perpendicular to the steering axis, and the wheel axis is offset from the steering axis. |
| US07874569B2 |
Displacement device for a fifth-wheel traction coupling
A displacement device for a fifth wheel traction coupling with two base bars and a fifth wheel traction coupling supporting top part which includes two bearing chocks which are slidingly fixed to the base bars and telescoping in a locked position thereof into each base bar by means locking elements with the aid of a rack rail. The known per se sliding devices are expensive due to the production of the base bars, since the rack rails are provided with a toothed profile prior to be welded. A low-cost sliding device is producible in a simple manner. For this purpose, at least one base bar is provided with spaced rest windows on the axial extension thereof for receiving the locking elements. |
| US07874565B2 |
Running board bracket
The invention provides a running board bracket which includes an elongate arm formation which has a first end section which extends vertically and which is movingly engagable with a motor vehicle, an opposing second end section which extends horizontally and which is engagable with a running board and an angled formation between the first and second sections which has an attachment which is engagable with the motor vehicle. Also provided is a method for attaching a running board to a motor vehicle by way of a running board bracket of the aforementioned kind which includes the steps of movingly engaging the first section with the motor vehicle, movingly engaging the attachment with the motor vehicle, and engaging the running board with the second section. |
| US07874564B2 |
Torque steer reduction system
A torque steer reduction system is disclosed. The system includes a damper. The damping effect of the damper is variable. Furthermore, the damping effect may be adjusted through a damping coefficient. High damping coefficients may correspond to stronger damping effects. During periods associated with a greater influence of torque steer, the damper may be configured with a high damping coefficient to counteract torque steer. |
| US07874563B2 |
Disc golf equipment cart
A cart apparatus to facilitate the play of disc golf may include but not be limited to a chassis, at least three wheels rotatably coupled to the chassis, a handle member mounted to the chassis, a floor platform mounted on the chassis and at least one seat member retractably mounted on the floor platform such that the seat member descends through the floor platform with the application of a sufficient weight and the seat member ascends through the floor platform after the removal of the weight. The seat member may consist of a seat mounted on a support. When someone sits on the seat the seat support descends through a hole in floor platform until it hits the ground. The ground then supports the weight of the sitter. When the sitter stands up and gets off the seat, the member ascends through the floor platform back to its starting position, or close thereto. Folding or collapsible embodiments of the cart apparatus allow it to be stored or transported more easily. Alternative embodiments provide baskets, consoles and accessories to enhance the ease, convenience and enjoyment of disc golf. |
| US07874562B2 |
Guides and other apparatus for inserting a cart, such as a cart with one or more fixed wheels, into an enclosure
Various embodiments of the wheel positioning assembly are adapted for facilitating the insertion of a cart into an enclosure. In certain embodiments, the cart comprises: (1) first and second fixed front wheels that are disposed adjacent opposite front lateral sides of the cart; and (2) first and second swiveled rear wheels disposed adjacent opposite lateral side of the cart. In various embodiments, the wheel positioning assembly comprises: (1) a first wheel guide for physically guiding the first, fixed front wheel into a desired first-front-wheel position in which the first front wheel is disposed within the dispenser and adjacent a first wheel barrier; and (2) a locking mechanism for selectively maintaining the second rear wheel in a desired second-rear-wheel position within the dispenser. The first wheel barrier and the locking mechanism may selectively cooperate to physically prevent removal of the cart from the enclosure. |
| US07874559B1 |
Playing card dispensing and opening system
A playing card dispensing and opening system includes a playing card dispensing unit that dispenses playing cards automatically, and a playing card opening unit that uses a motor to rotate a crank arm and to further move a transparent playing card holder plate from a horizontal position for receiving a dispensed playing card from the playing card dispensing unit to a vertical position to show the card suit and card value of the received playing card and then to a tilting position to let the received playing card fall from the transparent playing card holder plate to a playing card return slot on the table supporting the system. |
| US07874557B2 |
Sheet processing apparatus, sheet take-out apparatus, and sheet take-out method thereof
A sheet processing apparatus and a sheet take-out apparatus that prevents a sheet conveyed by a take-out portion from hanging-down and falling, when the take-out portion is stopped due to an emergency. If a take-out emergency process state occurs during the take-out of sheets, the sheet take-out apparatus stops upward movement of a backup plate, moves down feed stoppers, and presses a sheet bundle from above to prevent the sheet on the uppermost surface from being taken out. The sheet take-out apparatus also keeps a rotor air valve on and takes out the sheet caught in a sheet take-in port. When residual sheets on the backup plate are later detected, the sheet take-out apparatus moves down the position of the backup plate, turns off air valves for the rotor, fixed absorbing unit, and handling, and loads a hanging-down sheet on the backup plate, to prevent the sheet from scattering. |
| US07874554B2 |
Continuous separation of loose sheets
The present invention relates to a method for automated, continuous singling of loose sheet material, by the steps of feeding a stack of loose sheet material to be singled located on a first feeding element from a deposit position to a position in which the uppermost sheet of the stack can be grasped by the singling unit, sheet-by-sheet singling of the fed stack by the singling unit, the stack being fed by the feeding element such that the particular uppermost sheet of the stack can be grasped by the singling unit, feeding a further stack of loose sheet material to be fed located on a second feeding element from the deposit position to a position in which the uppermost sheet of the stack to be fed is located below the first feeding element, and uniting the stack to be singled and the fed stack by drawing the first feeding element out of the feeding path. |
| US07874548B1 |
Floatatable aerator system
A method and apparatus for a flotatable aerator system that includes a concaved surface at the top of a fluid uptake chamber for diverting aerated fluid behind a chassis of the system. The chassis is supported by floats and includes a bank of fluid outlets created by a plurality of parallel baffle walls. The baffle walls add structural support to the chassis. Elongated end baffle walls create a semi-enclosed area for the discharge of the aerated fluid. |
| US07874546B2 |
Integrated nano-bubble generating apparatus
An integrated nano-bubble generating apparatus including a pressure tank integrated with components constituted as a system and a power portion to be selectively adapted to a system so as to enlarge the use scope of the system, which includes an integrated bubble generating portion including a three-directional electronic valve supplying water flowing in an inflowing pipe to any one of a bubble generating portion and the power portion, a pressure sensing portion sensing a pressure in the inflowing pipe, a first vacuum chamber providing outer air to a pressure tank, a power control portion controlling the three-directional electronic valve, the pressure sensing portion and the first vacuum chamber and the pressure tank mixing water and air under an inner predetermined pressure and shattering water, physically, to generate nano-bubble water; and the power portion including a pump operated by a motor to supply water flowing in the inflowing pipe to the bubble generating portion and a second vacuum chamber supplying outer air via a check valve. |
| US07874544B2 |
Lifting device
A lifting device comprises at least two multi-stage masts and a cable mechanism. Each multi-stage mast comprises a first length and a second length that is longer than the first length. Each multi-stage mast further comprises a plurality of stages, such that at least one stage of a mast is vertically movable with respect to at least one other stage. The cable mechanism comprises a spool and at least one cable that is coupled to the spool and arranged with respect to the multi-stage masts so that when each cable is wound onto the spool, each mast simultaneously and in unison changes length in a direction from the first length to the second length, and when each cable is unwound off the spool, each mast changes length simultaneously and in unison in a direction from the second length to the first length. |
| US07874543B2 |
Non-slip overlash jig
A non-slip overlash jig for pulling cable along a support line via a towrope such that when the towrope is slack, the overlash jig does not retreat along the support line thereby slacking the cable. The non-slip overlash jig includes a housing having a roller and a clamping mechanism for engaging the cable. The roller is rotatably mounted to the housing and includes a one-way roller bearing that prevents sliding of the non-slip overlash jig when there is slack in the towrope. |
| US07874537B2 |
Swivel device and video display apparatus equipped with swivel device
A swivel device includes a motor as a driving source, gears for transmitting a driving force of the motor, a ring member to which the driving force of the motor is transmitted, and a disk member made of a metal sheet to which the driving force of the motor is transmitted via the ring member. This disk member is integrally provided with eight boss portions that are arranged with equal spaces in the swivel direction. The ring member is integrally provided with a groove portion in a circular pattern into which the boss portions are inserted. In addition, the boss portions of the disk member are inserted in the groove portion of the ring member in a slidable manner. |
| US07874528B2 |
Lift and hold, anti-tipping trash container support system
An anti-tipping container support system for supporting a container above a ground surface, the container comprising a substantially horizontal bar running across an outer wall of the container, the system comprising a support portion fixedly attached to the ground surface in a substantially perpendicular relationship to the ground surface, a lifting portion comprising a lever rotatably coupled to the support portion in substantially a T-orientation relative to the support portion, the lever comprising a handle and at least two connecting claws pivotally attached to the lever on opposite sides of the handle and substantially perpendicular to the lever, each connecting claw comprising a groove, such that when a manual downward force is applied to the handle with the bar of the container engaged in the grooves of the connecting claws, the container is lifted and supported off the ground surface. |
| US07874512B2 |
System and method for a flyable and roadable vehicle
System and method for a flyable and roadable vehicle. According to an embodiment, the present invention provides a vehicle capable of air and road travel. The vehicle is adaptable to a flying configuration and a road configuration. The vehicle includes a fuselage having a front end, a rear end, a top side, a bottom side. The vehicle also includes a wing component having a plurality of planes. The plurality of planes includes a first plane and a second plane. The vehicle additionally includes a connecting component for coupling the planes of the wing and the fuselage. The connecting component is able to accommodate a substantial relative rotation between the first plane and the fuselage. The vehicle further includes a plurality of wheels coupled to the bottom side of the fuselage. |
| US07874507B2 |
Tape tension modulation system and method
A system and method of modulating tape tension during operation of a tape drive data storage system in which a fixed position tape guide utilizes one or more drag elements to exert a control force on a tape medium that affects downstream tape tension. Drag elements that may be used include, but are not necessarily limited to, air ports that delivery positive or negative air pressure to the tape medium, skiving edge elements that are positionable into and out of engagement with the tape medium, and brakes or motors that engage the tape guide (if it is rotatably mounted) to control its rotational torque. A tension control circuit is used to vary the operation of the one or more drag elements. Signal inputs to the control circuit are provided by a tape tension sensor adjacent to or incorporated in the tape guide. |
| US07874506B2 |
Top and side loading shredder with optional handle
The present invention relates generally to shredder openings or throats. Specifically, this invention teaches a shredder housing with a top throat to allow material to be disposed of from above the shredder, as well as a side throat to allow for material to be disposed of from the side of the shredder. This is accomplished by placing a guiding member in the throat to assist both the top and side input. In addition, two side throats substantially opposite each other allow for multiple users to simultaneously use the shredder. Finally, the guiding member can serve as a handle to assist in lifting the housing from the base. |
| US07874505B1 |
Food grinder with electronically adjustable grind settings, tooless disassembly
A grinder (30) has a toolessly attached ingredient hopper assembly (50) overlying a toolessly attached fixed grinding burr (134) defining the top of a grind chamber (158) within which is received a mating rotary grinding burr (150) that is slidably mounted to a rotary drive motor (154) for adjustment relative to the fixed grinding burr (134). Adjustment is achieved automatically by control of a stepper motor (168) that pushes on the end of an elongate member (151) passing through a hollow rotary drive axle (152) and carrying the rotary grinding burr (150) at an opposite end. Start of a grinding cycle in response to actuation of a start switch is inhibited if a pair of photosensors (81, 82) do not detect location of a ground ingredient container (68) in a correct position for receipt of the ground food ingredient, if an automatically closable hopper cover lid (57) is not in a closed position or if grinding parameters, such as the fineness of the grind and the amount of ingredient to be ground has not been detected. |
| US07874500B2 |
Snow making apparatus
A snow making apparatus of the low profile snow gun type or of the tower type having independent and co-extending air and first water conduits supported above ground. Air and first water discharge nozzles are connected to the upper ends respectively of these conduits for producing a plume of atomized water from external interacting air and water discharge under pressure from the air and water discharge nozzles to produce snow in sub-freezing ambient conditions. A second water conduit co-extends with the air and first water conduits and a second water discharge nozzle is connected to the upper end of this second water conduit in the head of the snow gun or tower for discharge of additional water under pressure to ambient atmosphere through this second water discharge nozzle. An air valve is also provided in the head of the snow gun or snow tower and is connected to the second water conduit and the air conduit whereby the air valve disconnects the supply of air under pressure from the air conduit to the air discharge nozzle or nozzles when the air valve is subjected to water under pressure from this second water conduit. |
| US07874498B2 |
Water control fixture having thermostatically controlled bypass valve
A water control fixture configured to be fluidly coupled to a cold water supply line and a hot water supply line of a water circulating system includes a housing having a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and an outlet. The fixture also includes at least one operating valve disposed in the housing for controlling the flow of water from the cold water inlet and from the hot water inlet to the outlet, and a thermostatically controlled bypass valve disposed in the housing. The bypass valve is configured to bypass water from the hot water inlet to the cold water inlet based on a temperature of the water at the hot water inlet. |
| US07874497B2 |
Temperature control system for machine tool
A temperature control system for a machine tool capable of quickly responding to an ambient temperature change. A mechanical section of the machine tool is surrounded by a machine cover. Gas of which temperature is controlled by a temperature controller is discharged from bearing portions of gas bearings in the mechanical section to a region surrounded by the machine cover through a pipe and a gas bearing channel. A branch pipe is provided for directly introducing a part of gas discharged from the temperature controller to a temperature sensor inside the machine cover. The temperature sensor measures the temperature of gas mixture obtained by mixing the gas introduced directly from the pipe with air inside the machine cover in a predetermined ratio. The result of measurement by the temperature sensor is fed back to the temperature controller to control the temperature of the gas supplied to the gas bearings. |
| US07874496B2 |
Optically readable tag
Embodiments related to the identification of objects via optically readable tags. One embodiment includes an optically readable tag having a data region comprising a two-dimensional array of optically contrasting data features, one or more orientation features located on the tag outside of the data region, and a tracking feature located outside of the data region and having a larger size than the orientation features and the data features. |
| US07874493B2 |
Method of manufacturing RFID devices
A method of making RFID devices includes feeding in an interposer web or sheet at a variable (non-constant) speed, cutting single interposers from the interposer web or sheet, and using a rotary transport device to transport the singulated (cut) interposers to an antenna web. The interposers are transferred from the rotary transport device and are attached to the antenna web, being operatively coupled to antennas on the antenna web. The interposers each include an RFID transponder chip and conductive leads. A feeder is used to advance the interposer web or sheet into a cutting zone between the rotary cutter and the rotary transport device. The rotary cutting device may be capable of singulating multiple interposers at one time, and the system may be capable of thus being able to remove interposers that are not to be joined to the antenna web. |
| US07874492B2 |
Method and system for facilitating memory and application management on a secured token
A system for facilitating memory and application management on a smartcard the system includes a client having a number of applications and a smartcard having specification logic allowing file structures and security and access conditions to be defined using a set of common commands. Each application has a corresponding group of data on the smartcard. An applet instance is created for each application and corresponding group of application data. At the time of instantiation, the specification logic allows an application to specify the file structure and/or to specify security and access conditions for its group of data. An application can utilize passcode and credential management so that a single passcode is used to access the smartcard regardless of whether the application utilizes the common commands to specify a file structure. |
| US07874488B2 |
Electronic ink for identity card
A method and apparatus for an identity card with improved security features. The identity card can have a programmable display. The display can be used to display sensitive data under defined circumstances. The card may have an interactive interface to receive input from a user. The card may also have a input/output interface to allow the exchange of data from the card to an external device. These elements can be used together to give a holder of a card control over the access to the data in the card and thwart counterfeiting and identity theft. |
| US07874485B2 |
Adaptive optical image reader
There is described in one embodiment a method for use by an apparatus that can acquire an image. According to a described method, a method can include acquiring an image and can further include evaluating an image. According to a described method, an apparatus can acquire an image, can evaluate an image, and can provide parameters for utilization by the apparatus. In another embodiment, there is described an apparatus comprising a plurality of digitizers. In one example of an embodiment of an apparatus including a plurality of digitizers, the digitizers can be configured to run in parallel. In another example of an embodiment of an apparatus including a plurality of digitizers, the digitizers can be configured to run in series. |
| US07874484B2 |
Smart key having portable memory card
The present invention provides a smart key in which a portable memory card is detachably mounted. The smart key includes a card mounting portion into which a portable memory card having at least one terminal is inserted, a card reader for the portable memory card, and a connector for connecting the smart key to the key box. The card reader comprises an interface to which the terminal or terminals are connected and a control unit for converting data received from the portable memory card into a format readable by an audio system of the vehicle. |
| US07874479B2 |
Card activated cash dispensing automated banking machine system and method
An automated banking machine system operates to cause financial transfers responsive to data read from data bearing records. The system is operative to read a financial card bearing account indicia with a card reader. A user is enabled to perform at least one banking operation responsive to account indicia read from the card. Such banking operations may include dispensing cash and accessing financial accounts. While a user operates the system to dispense cash or perform other banking operations, the system may further permit at least one portable wireless device to wirelessly access the system to conduct transactions. |
| US07874478B2 |
Coin counter and voucher dispensing machine and method
A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray angled downward from the horizontal. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel over a peak structure, through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. The coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of manufacturer coupons. |
| US07874474B2 |
Self-assembly of elements using microfluidic traps
A self-assembly process is disclosed for integrating free standing microcomponents onto a template having a plurality of binding sites, an interconnect network, and trapping structures disposed downstream of the binding sites. The self-assembly is accomplished by flowing a fluid medium containing the microcomponents over the template such that some of the microcomponents are trapped at binding sites. The template may be simultaneously (or subsequently) heated to melt a binder such as a solder spot at each of the binding sites, and then cooled to connect the trapped microcomponents to the interconnect network. In one embodiment, removable blocking elements are disposed upstream of some of the binding sites, for example formed from photoresist. After assembling a first set of microcomponents, the blocking elements are removed, and a second set of microcomponents in a fluid medium are flowed over the template for assembly into the newly unblocked binding sites. |
| US07874473B2 |
Method for the soldering repair of a component in a vacuum and an adjusted partial oxygen pressure
A method for the repair of a component by a solder is disclosed. The method is performed under specifically selected vacuum conditions in order to prevent oxidation and vaporization. |
| US07874472B2 |
Method for diffusion bonding metallic components with nanoparticle foil
A method for joining metal parts of a turbine engine component, the method comprising positioning a nanoparticle foil between faying surfaces of the metal parts, and diffusion bonding the metal with the nanoparticle foil, where the nanoparticle foil has a film thickness of about 100 micrometers or less, and comprises an alloy having an average particle size of about 500 nanometers or less. |
| US07874471B2 |
Butt weld and method of making using fusion and friction stir welding
Provided are butt welds and methods of making such butt welds using a combination of fusion root welding and friction stir welding to yield welds with decreased propensity for dropout during friction stir welding without the need for a back-up support plate. In one form of the present disclosure, the butt weld includes: two or more abutting structural steel components beveled on faying surfaces on one side of the components to form a suitably shaped fusion root weld groove and unbeveled on faying surfaces on the opposite side of the components and interconnected with a first fusion root weld on the beveled side of the components and a second friction stir weld on the unbeveled side of the components, wherein the first fusion root weld has a width ranging from 7 mm to 30 mm, a penetration depth ranging from 2 mm to 20 mm, and an overfill ranging from 2 mm to 5 mm, and wherein the stir zone of the second friction stir weld penetrates the first fusion root weld. The butt welds and methods of making find application in joining linepipe for oil and gas production. |
| US07874467B2 |
Metered drop push button dispenser system
A reusable continuously sealing metered dosing one-way valve assembly and delivery system flows a premeasured amount of a sterile flowable substance from a source which is coupled to an actuator assembly to an outlet orifice and prevents any backflow of contaminants through the continuously sealing one way valve assembly when the flowable substance ceases to flow. The valve assembly includes an elastomeric membrane which aids in preventing any backflow of contaminants when dispensing of the flowable substance is stopped. Multiple dosing of preservative-free flowable substance is provided. |
| US07874466B2 |
Package comprising push-pull closure and slit valve
Packages for containing and dispensing consumer products comprise a push-pull closure connected to a bottle and having a dispensing opening covered by a slit valve. The combination of a push-pull closure and a slit valve results in a package that easily dispenses a liquid consumer product, while guarding against leakage of the consumer product from the package, especially during transportation and storage of the product, particularly when the package is a tottle package. The push-pull closure of the present package is simple to open and can also be easily closed with the use of only one hand, especially by pressing the closure against a flat surface, such as a shower wall or shelf. |
| US07874465B2 |
Fluid dispenser head
A fluid dispenser head for mounting on a fluid reservoir (1), the head having a fluid dispenser member (2), such as a pump or a valve, having a body (20) that is mounted in stationary manner relative to the reservoir (1), and a valve rod (21) that is axially displaceable down and up; a pushbutton (5, 7) that is axially displaceable down and up, driving the valve rod (21); and a dispenser orifice (60) that is connected to the valve rod. The dispenser head has an actuator mechanism (4) for driving the pushbutton in axial displacement relative to the valve rod (21). |
| US07874463B2 |
Dispenser with collapsible dispensing tube
A dispenser includes a housing and a push bar movable between a rest position and an actuated position. A container is retained in the housing and holds a liquid, and a pump is associated with a liquid. The pump is actuated to dispense a dose of the liquid, when the push bar is moved from its rest position to its actuated position. A dispensing tube includes an inlet associated with the pump, an outlet associated with the push bar, and a bellows portion between the inlet and the outlet. Upon moving the push bar from its rest position to its actuated position, the bellows portion is collapsed from an expanded volume to a compressed volume, and the outlet of the dispensing tube moves with the push bar. Upon return of the push bar from the actuated position to the rest position, the bellows portion expands from the compressed volume to the expanded volume, and draws liquid at the tip of the dispensing tube into the dispensing tube to reduce or eliminate dripping. |
| US07874461B2 |
Cosmetic receptacle
A cosmetic receptacle includes: a button locking part including a locking operation pipe assembled with an outer surface of an upper end of the outer receptacle so as to rotate respective to the outer receptacle and a stopping protuberance protruding from an inner surface of the upper end of the outer receptacle, a locking operation groove being formed at the locking operation pipe, the locking operation groove including a lock keeping groove arranged at an upper area of the locking operation groove along a horizontal direction, a release keeping groove arranged at a lower area of the locking operation groove along a horizontal direction, and an elevation guide groove connecting the lock keeping groove with the release keeping groove in a linear direction, and a shoulder part including a stopper groove formed on the shoulder part along a longitudinal direction and an elevation leading protuberance formed at an outer surface of the shoulder part, the shoulder part being installed in such a manner that the stopping protuberance is inserted into the stopper groove, and that the elevation leading protuberance is inserted into the locking operation groove. |
| US07874459B2 |
Dispensing system for blended frozen food compositions
An apparatus for dispensing soft serve frozen food product, such as soft serve ice cream and the like, provides the ability to select the fat content or other characteristic of the ice cream dispensed from the machine. |
| US07874457B2 |
Ice bucket dispenser apparatus
A portable ice bucket apparatus for storing and dispensing ice includes: (a) an upper bucket portion including an insulated bucket with an opening at the top of the bucket and an ice body chute opening in a bottom wall of the bucket; (b) a motorless lower stand portion, the upper bucket portion being detachably attachable to the stand portion; (c) a dispensing mechanism including a movable gate flap within the bucket portion, a spring-loaded lever, and a gate shaft and a dispensing lever within the stand portion, the dispensing lever being coupled to the gate shaft, the gate shaft being coupled to the spring-loaded lever, the gate shaft being coupled with the gate flap; and (d) a water drainage and collection mechanism including a reservoir in the stand portion, and preferably a drain valve; wherein the movable gate flap in a closed position substantially covers the ice body chute opening. |
| US07874455B2 |
Dispenser and gloves
Gloves and dispensers for gloves are generally discussed herein with particular discussions extended to disposable gloves packaged in a disposable dispenser configured to engage with a carrier. Aspects of the glove assemblies provided herein include a dispenser case having a flange having locking tab for sliding engagement with a channel on the carrier. The dispenser case may be removed from the carrier and a new dispenser case engaged to the carrier. |
| US07874453B2 |
Snap lock container with lid rotation tab
A sealed, locked, and reopenable cup and lid assembly comprises a cup, a resilient circular lid, circumferentially spaced and rotationally alignable interrupted portions and at least one tab. The resilient circular lid is sized to be inserted in a mouth of the cup and to fit in a locking groove of the cup. The resilient circular lid is permitted to be removed upon alignment of interrupted portions in the locking groove and a peripheral lip of the circular lid. |
| US07874449B1 |
Snack tray with dispensing compartment
A thermoformed dispensing container comprises a plastic tray with a dispensing cavity having side walls that include a circular radial side wall portion with a gap, and a disc-shaped thermoformed plastic lid positioned for rotation within the circular radial side wall portion of the tray, the lid having side walls that include a door. The dispensing container can be placed in an open condition by rotating the lid to align the door of the lid with the gap of the tray, or in a closed position by moving the door of the lid away from the gap of the tray. |
| US07874448B1 |
Paint tray liner apparatus
The paint tray liner apparatus provides removable fit to an existing paint tray, thereby providing a disposable liner. Flexible sides are collapsible and the liner bottom relatively rigid. The collapsible sides provide for reduced space storage of the apparatus, whether prior to use or after when discarded. The collapsible sides each has an inner panel spaced apart from an outer panel. Each inner and outer panel is connected by the continuous shelf. The side panels thereby fit the sides of a paint tray, with the apparatus tray bottom against a paint tray bottom. |
| US07874447B2 |
Reclosable cup lid with sliding member and scalloped track
A reclosable cup lid thermoformed from a polymeric material includes a domed member and a closure panel. The thermoformed domed member is provided with a sidewall and a top wall, the top wall having upper and lower surfaces and a drinking aperture at a periphery of the top wall. The top wall further defines a pair of engagement tracks depending from the lower surface of the top wall and also defines a post aperture disposed inwardly with respect to the drinking aperture. The closure panel has opposed engagement edges, an upper surface provided with a post projecting upwardly therefrom, and a drinking aperture sealing area. As assembled, the domed member and closure panel are configured such that the opposed engagement edges of the closure panel are slidingly mounted in the engagement tracks for generally radial displacement. |
| US07874446B2 |
Trash container with compacting lid
A trash container has a flexible, corrugated baffle attached to or integrated into the lid of the container. The baffle may have a handle and a compacting plate attached to it, and it allows a user to compact trash inside the trash container. Specifically, the flexible design of the baffle allows the compacting plate to compact trash inside the container when the baffle is extended into the container. After the trash inside the container is compacted, the baffle may spring back into its original shape. The lid structure, including the baffle, may be incorporated into the container, which may have other features, such as a foot pedal to raise and lower the lid. The baffle allows trash in the trash container to be reduced in size, allowing more trash to be placed in the container, while maintaining a simple design and keeping the user clean and safe. |
| US07874445B2 |
Interchangeable container
An interchangeable container for a system for building a mold body by forming superimposed layers of granular material, the granular material locally and selectively hardened layer by layer. The container includes a bottom structure that is displaceable in the interior of the container in a direction in parallel with the container side walls and at least one spindle drive having a vertical screw spindle rotatably mounted in a container side of the container, and a spindle screw nut on which the bottom structure is supported. The bottom structure can be lowered step by step in the interior of the container by the spindle drive. |
| US07874443B2 |
Plastic tank for liquids
A plastic tank for liquids formed as a rectangular-solid or cubic container has four sidewalls, an upper base with a filling socket, a lower base, and an outlet socket, the outlet socket being formed on the lower section of a sidewall for connection to a tapping valve. The upper corner regions between the sidewalls and the upper base of the container and/or the lower corner regions between the sidewalls and the lower base of the container have at least one indentation or projection each. |
| US07874440B2 |
Child-resistant package
A child-resistant package includes first and second elements having base walls with rectangular peripheries, continuous peripheral walls extending around the peripheries, locking projections or tabs on opposed sections of the peripheral walls, and cylindrical walls extending from the base walls within the peripheral walls and having thread segments. The second element is threadable onto the first element to bring the peripheral walls into aligned abutment and the locking tabs into engagement with the locking projections to resist unthreading of the elements. The peripheral wall of the second element is inwardly flexible and resilient adjacent to the locking tabs to permit manual movement of the locking tabs inward from the locking projections so that the elements can be unthreaded from each other. |
| US07874437B2 |
Mechanical closet
A Mechanical Closet Arm with a horizontal pole to hang items which has a reversible drive and a method of stopping the horizontal pole when it reaches the upper or lower height limit. A preferred embodiment includes a bearing washer assembly supporting each mounted support arm axle inside each side arm bearing block. |
| US07874436B2 |
Saddle rack
A storage system may include a rack. The rack may include one or more saddle supports sized and configured to support at least a portion of a saddle. The rack may be sized and configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position. The rack may be sized and configured to move among a plurality of heights. The storage system may include a height adjustment device sized and configured to adjust the height of the rack. |
| US07874435B2 |
Pipeline pig storage rack apparatus
A pipeline pig support rack apparatus includes a frame having a plurality of supports mounted thereon, each extending upwardly from the frame. Each pipeline pig support includes clamps that are comprised of first and second u-shaped members that are attached with a hinge. A bolted connection opposite the hinge is provided for holding the u-shaped members together in a closed position when securing a pipeline pig. Lifting eyes on the frame are provided for enabling the frame, its pig supports and any contained pipeline pigs to be lifted as a unit. A basket receptacle optionally is provided that receives the frame. The frame and basket receptacle are each independently liftable. The basket receptacle prevents spillage of hazardous materials that might be residing upon the pigs after they have been used to clean a particular pipeline. |
| US07874424B1 |
Disk pack balancing station
A method of balancing a disk pack assembly is disclosed. The disk pack assembly comprises a plurality of components including a plurality of disks coupled to a hub of a spindle motor with at least one disk spacer between the disks. The method comprises the steps of rotating a first biasing arm about a pivot to apply a first biasing force to a first component of the disk pack assembly, and moving a second biasing arm linearly to apply a second biasing force to a second component of the disk pack assembly. |
| US07874423B2 |
Device and method for displaying neckties
The invention provides a device and a method for packaging of one or more neckties for retail display. The device includes a hanger part for hanging neckties on a rack, and a fastener part for holding the neckties together so as to maintain an orderly appearance. The device is inexpensive, convenient to use, and offers enhanced opportunity for brand identification and advertisement. |
| US07874420B2 |
Affixable dispensing capsule
A dispensing capsule and method for use thereof, wherein the dispensing capsule is preferably pre-loaded during time of manufacture with a selected dry or liquid ingredient to facilitate subsequent consumer use. The dispensing capsule comprises an apertured housing removably-engagable to the opening of a bottle or container containing a fluid. Preloaded ingredients contained within a cavity in the housing may be introduced or discharged into the bottle by simply depressing a button on the diaphragm of the housing, thereby actuating a breakaway plunger to open an aperture in the opposing base plate of the housing, permitting the contents to flow through the aperture and into the liquid contents of the bottle. The combined contents and liquid within the bottle may subsequently be agitated (e.g., shaken or mixed) without fear or risk of leakage or spillage. A hand held dispensing capsule is also disclosed. |
| US07874415B2 |
Torque transfer device
A torque transfer device, in particular in the drive train of a motor vehicle for torque transfer between a drive unit, in particular a combustion engine, and a transmission with at least one multi-disk clutch, in particular, a twin multi-disk clutch, comprising at least one disk packet, comprising outer disks, connected torque proof with an outer disk carrier, and inner disks, connected torque proof with an inner disk carrier (17, 27), and with at least one operating lever device for operating the multi-disk clutch, wherein a pressure transfer device extends between the disk packet and the operating lever device through at least one pass-through opening, which is cut out in a carrier device. The seal device is disposed between the inner disk carrier and the pass-through opening. |
| US07874414B2 |
Overrunning bi-directional clutch with controlled locking
The overrunning bi-directional clutch with controlled locking provides an actuator pin with either a reduced profile or an enlarged profile that is moved in a controlled manner so as to provide an extended period of time between the freewheel mode and the lock mode for the clutch. |
| US07874413B2 |
Rotation transmission device
A rotation transmission device which can quickly change the direction of rotation includes an inner ring having cam surfaces on its outer periphery, an outer ring having a cylindrical surface on its inner periphery, and pairs of circumferentially opposed rollers, the rollers of each pair being disposed between one of the cam surfaces and the cylindrical surface to be circumferentially opposed to each other. A roller separation spring is disposed between the rollers of each pair of rollers to bias the rollers away from each other so that the rollers are wedged between the cam surface and the cylindrical surface. The rollers are retained by a roller retainer which can change the distance between the rollers of each pair of rollers. By reducing the distance between the rollers of each pair of rollers with the roller retainer, the rollers can be disengaged from the cam surfaces and the cylindrical surface. |
| US07874412B2 |
Composite profile with a carrier body of alloy material and a profile strip and a method for production of the composite profile
A composite profile comprising: (1) an extruded metal alloy carrier profile comprising a rail head having a longitudinal axis B, the rail head comprises a surface and two longitudinal edges extending parallel to the longitudinal axis B and (2) a metal channel shaped profile strip comprising a base portion spanning the surface of the rail head and parallel side legs which lie on the longitudinal edges of the head rail, an insert rod is provided on the parallel side legs which lie on the longitudinal edges of the head rail and engage in lateral slots provided in the two longitudinal edges of the rail head, wherein the profile strip is attached to the carrier profile under mechanical pretension by way of a weld scan. |
| US07874411B2 |
Reel for maintaining fiber optic cable assemblies
A cable assembly reel including a drum defining an exterior surface for receiving a length of wound cable and including at least one access panel therein for providing access to an interior cavity, and at least one flange removably attached to the drum defining an opening therethrough for receiving an axle. A cable reel for maintaining at least one cable of a cable assembly around the exterior surface of the reel and defining an interior cavity for maintaining attached hardware of the cable assembly separate from the at least one cable. |
| US07874410B2 |
Intravenous pole power organizer (IVPPO)
The invention provides an apparatus for safely storing and retrieving power cords and electronic wiring associated with a mobile intravenous pole serving patients in intensive care settings wherein a plurality of devices are required and enabling the patient to be mobile without causing power cords and wiring to become tangled and dragging on patient room or hospital floors. |
| US07874407B2 |
System and method for magnetorheological-fluid damping utilizing porous media
A magnetorheological fluid damping system includes a hydraulic cylinder, a piston head, a piston rod, and a porous valve. The hydraulic cylinder is configured for disposing magnetorheological fluid therein. The piston head is disposed within the hydraulic cylinder and has first and second sides defining first and second chambers within the hydraulic cylinder. The piston head is configured to be in sliding engagement with the hydraulic cylinder. The piston rod is connected to the piston head. The porous valve includes a magnetorheological fluid pathway, has first and second fluid connections, and is configured to dampen the flow of the magnetorheological fluid between the first and second fluid connections in accordance with a magnetic field. The first fluid connection is fluidly connected to the first chamber and the second fluid connection is fluidly connected to the second chamber. The magnetorheological fluid pathway at least partially directs magnetorheological fluid flow through a porous media. |
| US07874406B2 |
Thermal simulation friction device cooling control
A cooling system for cooling a friction device includes a flow control device which controls a flow of fluid through the friction device. A controller estimates a temperature state of the friction device and calculates a flow command based on the temperature state. The controller operates the flow control device based on the flow command. The temperature state is one of a temperature of the friction device and a thermal energy of the friction device. |
| US07874404B1 |
Elevator system having drive motor located between elevator car and hoistway sidewall
An elevator system includes a hoistway defined by a surrounding structure. An elevator car and counterweight are located in the hoistway, and a drive motor is located between the elevator car and a sidewall of the hoistway. The drive motor drivingly couples and suspends the elevator car and counterweight via at least one flat rope or belt. |
| US07874391B2 |
Multiple configuration utility vehicle
A utility vehicle includes front and rear wheel assemblies, a frame supported on the front and rear wheel assemblies, and an operator compartment supported on the frame and having operator controls. The frame includes a central, tubular frame member having a front end portion and a rear end portion. An engine is supported on the frame for providing power to the front and rear wheel assemblies. A cooling assembly mounted above the engine. An attachment arm is attached to the front portion of the frame and a rear interface mount is rigidly attached to the rear portion of the frame. |
| US07874390B2 |
Working machine
On the premise that a partition wall for defining an engine room is provided on the left side of a rear portion of an upper frame the partition wall constituting an upper rotating body and that an engine and a cooler are disposed in the engine room, a front support frame which supports a front portion of the cooler is connected to a rear surface of the partition wall in a state of surface abutment against the rear surface, whereby the support frame also serves as a support pillar for the partition wall, the partition wall also serves as a stay for the prevention of transverse vibration of the support frame, and the use of a sealing member for filling up a gap between the partition wall and the support frame can be omitted. |
| US07874388B2 |
Electric vehicle
A mini-type electric vehicle, which is mainly used for individual transportation and includes a frame, a seat, front and rear wheels, a driving device, a battery, a steering system and a front wheel suspension device. A casing in which the battery is placed is provided forward in the middle position of the front end of the frame. The suspension device for front wheels has a front convex shape and a rear concave shape and covers the front end of the casing, and pivots to the middle of the front end of the casing. Two front wheels are installed on the front wheel suspension device. The rear edge line of the two front wheels is located at the rear of the battery front edge. The steering system is connected to the front end of the frame and interlocks with the front wheels. The battery is installed at the front so as to balance the weight distribution, improve the driving safety, comfort and steering performance for electric vehicle. |
| US07874386B2 |
Hybrid mobile robot
A hybrid mobile robot includes a base link and a second link. The base link has a drive system and is adapted to function as a traction device and a turret. The second link is attached to the base link at a first joint. The second link has a drive system and is adapted to function as a traction device and to be deployed for manipulation. In another embodiment an invertible robot includes at least one base link and a second link. In another embodiment a mobile robot includes a chassis and a track drive pulley system including a tension and suspension mechanism. In another embodiment a mobile robot includes a wireless communication system. |
| US07874383B1 |
Polycrystalline diamond insert, drill bit including same, and method of operation
Polycrystalline diamond inserts are disclosed. For example, a polycrystalline diamond insert may comprise a polycrystalline diamond layer affixed to a substrate at an interface. In addition the polycrystalline diamond layer may comprise: an arcuate exterior surface, a first region including a catalyst and a second region from which the catalyst is at least partially removed. Further, the arcuate exterior surface may be defined by a portion of the first region including the catalyst and a portion of the second region from which the catalyst is at least partially removed. In another embodiment, the polycrystalline diamond layer may include a convex exterior surface for contacting a subterranean formation, wherein at least a portion of a catalyst used for forming the polycrystalline diamond layer is removed from a region of the polycrystalline diamond layer. Subterranean drilling tools (e.g., percussive drill bits) including at least one polycrystalline diamond insert are disclosed. |
| US07874382B2 |
Pneumatically reversible ram boring device
A pneumatically reversible ram boring device includes a percussion piston (8) that is situated in a casing (1) and is movable back and forth by operation air supplied via an operational-air supply via an operational-air line (5), a control pipe (4, 36, 54) having at least one control opening (13), an outer pipe (15, 65), and a control sleeve (10, 60) that can be displaced by compressed air from a control chamber (16, 66). An essentially torsion-resistant operational-air line (5) can be rotatably connected to a rotary valve (4, 40, 70) that supplies the control chamber with operational air or vents air from the chamber. |
| US07874372B2 |
Well access line positioning assembly
An assembly for positioning a well access line in a well. The assembly is located between a supply of well access line and a well, with the line running through the assembly and to the well. Multiple pulleys are incorporated into the assembly about which a well access line such as a conventional wireline may be wrapped. The pulleys are biased to one another such that slack in the line may be stored at the assembly and drawn on in the event of line tension spiking up to a predetermined amount. As such, tension in the line may be kept to a minimum so as to avoid damage to the line during a well access operation. Furthermore, should the tension in the line fail to come back down to below the predetermined amount, the well access operation may be halted in an automated manner. Halting may proceed while continuing to allow take-up of the slack in the line until completed halting of the operation is achieved. |
| US07874371B2 |
Subsurface lubricator and method of use
A subsurface lubricator facilitates well completion, re-completion and workover while increasing safety and reducing expense. The subsurface lubricator includes a bi-directional packoff tool on its bottom end. Short hydraulic cylinders lubricate the subsurface lubricator into the well until the bi-directional packoff tool is in a top end of a casing of the well. High pressure fluid pumped through a side port of a wellhead of the well lubricates the subsurface lubricator into the well. |
| US07874369B2 |
Progressive cavity pump (PCP) drive head stuffing box with split seal
The present invention relates to a split seal for a progressive cavity pump (PCP) drive head stuffing box. In one embodiment, a mechanical seal assembly for a pump is provided. The mechanical seal assembly includes a seal housing; first and second semi-annular mechanical seals, each at least partially disposed in the seal housing bore, and a seal sleeve rotatable relative to the seal housing; third and fourth semi-annular mechanical seals, each disposed at least partially in the seal sleeve bore, at least one of the third and fourth seals rotationally coupled to the seal sleeve; and one or more biasing members biasing the mechanical seals into engagement. |
| US07874367B2 |
Low clearance downhole pump
A pump has a housing having a top plate and a bottom plate and a shaft slidingly extending through an aperture in the top plate. A piston is connected to the shaft. The piston separates a volume within the housing into a first stage chamber defined in the housing below the piston and a second stage chamber defined in the housing above the piston. A fluid transfer port in the piston is in fluid communication with the second stage chamber and, through a check valve, with the first stage chamber. Another stage check valve allows one-way flow of fluid from a suction area below the bottom plate into the first stage chamber. A pressure control valve may be provided for selectively allowing fluid to flow out of the first stage chamber. |
| US07874365B2 |
Methods and devices for treating multiple-interval well bores
Methods and devices are provided for treating multiple interval well bores. More particularly, an isolation assembly may be used to allow for zonal isolation to allow treatment of selected productive or previously producing intervals in multiple interval well bores. One example of a method for treating a multiple interval well bore includes the steps of: introducing an isolation assembly to a well bore, the isolation assembly comprising a liner, one or more sleeves and a plurality of swellable packers, wherein the sleeves and swellable packers are disposed about the liner; deploying a shifting tool inside the liner, where the sleeves are configured so as to provide open, closed and open to screen positions when actuated by the shifting tool. An open position allows for treatment of the well bore while an open to screen position allows for receiving fluid from the well bore. A closed position re-establishes zonal isolation. |
| US07874363B2 |
Method for terminating or reducing water flow in a subterranean formation
A method of conditioning well bores and reducing the deleterious effects of water production in a subterranean formation by placing an aqueous phase polymer and/or resin, which at a designated set up time, solidifies and blocks water conduits and establishes post treatment gas and oil permeability. Novel polymers and/or resins for use as a water barrier are typified by phenolformaldehyde containing 1-2 weight % of at least one of sodium bisulphite, sodium metabisulphite or mixtures thereof. The method includes selecting a well having sizable hydrocarbon reserves with a production history of decrease of oil or gas production with concurrent increase of water production. |
| US07874360B2 |
Methods for improving low-quality proppant and method of using low-quality proppant in subterranean operations
The present invention relates to improved low-quality particulates and methods of making such improved particulates. A method of treating a portion of a subterranean formation, comprising providing a slurry comprising a treatment fluid and low-quality particulates at least partially coated with an aqueous tackifying composition, wherein the aqueous tackifying composition comprises an aqueous tackifier compound and an aqueous liquid; introducing the slurry into a subterranean formation; and, depositing the coated, low-quality particulates into the portion of this subterranean formation. A method of improving particulates, comprising at least partially coating low-quality particulates with an aqueous tackifying composition, wherein the aqueous tackifying composition comprises an aqueous tackifier compound and an aqueous liquid. |
| US07874357B2 |
Diagnosis of formation characteristics in wells
A technique for estimating the permeability profile of a well includes generating a well and formation model. The technique includes producing the well so that hydrocarbons flow from the formation and through the well. The technique includes measuring pressure at a plurality of points along at least a portion of the well without an intervention in the well and estimating a permeability profile along the portion of the well by use of the plurality of pressure measurements. |
| US07874355B2 |
Methods and apparatus for removing deposits on components in a downhole tool
Methods and apparatus for removing deposits on components in a downhole tool are described. An example apparatus to remove a deposit on an inner surface of a flowline in a downhole tool includes a movable scraper disposed in a flowline of a downhole tool. The movable scraper is configured to selectively obstruct the flowline so that a fluid flowing in the flowline moves the movable scraper in the flowline. Additionally, the movable scraper has an outer surface configured to engage an inner surface of the flowline so that movement of the outer surface along the inner surface removes a deposit on at least a portion of the inner surface. |
| US07874353B2 |
Bearing assembly retaining apparatus and well drilling equipment comprising same
A well drilling head housing comprises a sidewall structure, a ram and selective displacement means. The sidewall structure defines a central bore configured for having a bearing assembly removably seated therein. The ram is slideably mounted on the side wall structure and is disposed within a passage extending through the sidewall structure. The selective displacement means is coupled between the ram and the sidewall structure. The selective displacement means, is configured for moving the ram to an engaged position in which the ram is engaged with the bearing assembly for securing the bearing assembly in a seated position within the central bore and a disengaged position in which the ram is disengaged from the bearing assembly thereby allowing the bearing assembly to be removed from within the central bore. |
| US07874346B2 |
Method for producing manganese dry cell negative electrode zinc material
A method for manufacturing non lead added anode zinc material for manganese dry batteries comprising compounding a zinc alloy by melting zinc, 0.1 mass % or more and 0.7 mass % or less of bismuth and other impurity elements inevitably contained in zinc in a melting furnace; casting the compounded molten zinc alloy to a molded material in the form of a band or in the form of a bar; rolling the molded material in band form to form a zinc alloy sheet; and punching the rolled zinc alloy sheet in a designated thickness into a designated shape. |
| US07874339B2 |
Apparatus for applying indicia to a curved surface
A method and apparatus for applying indicia to a curved surface, including a compound curved surface having multiple axes of curvature. The curved surface is deformed to eliminate one axis of curvature. The invention is usable with hourglass or barrel shaped surfaces, as occur with containers, and to apply labels and other indicia to these surfaces. |
| US07874336B2 |
Label application assembly comprising safety means
A label application assembly for labeling machines in general, comprising, downstream of a label feeder, a plate for picking up the labels, which is connected to means for transfer onto the product to be labeled, safety means being provided which are interposed between the pick-up plate and the transfer means and are adapted to intervene when the pick-up plate interacts with obstacles interposed in the region where the pick-up plate moves. |
| US07874333B2 |
Tread fo heavy-vehicle tire having connecting bridges
A tread (1) comprising a plurality of grooves of longitudinal and transverse general orientation (2b, 2c, 31, 32), the grooves of longitudinal orientation comprising main grooves (2b, 2c) of depth G and secondary grooves (31, 32) of depth G′ less than the depth G of the main grooves, the central part (C) of the tread, defined axially by two grooves of longitudinal orientation, and of a width of between 0.25 and 0.5 times the width W of the tread, being provided with at least one main groove (2c) of longitudinal orientation and of average depth G. The depth G′ of the secondary grooves (31, 32) is between 0.4 and 0.6 times the depth G of the main grooves (2b, 2c). The transverse grooves (5c) of the ribs of the central part (C) comprise over at most half of their length a connecting bridge (6c), the surface radially to the outside of which is at a distance Hc from the running surface of between 0.4 and 0.8 times the depth G of the main grooves. The transverse grooves (5b) of the ribs of each edge (B) comprise over at most half of their length a connecting bridge (6b) which prevents closure of said transverse grooves. The surface radially to the outside is at a distance Hs from the running surface which is at most equal to 0.3 times the depth G of the main grooves. |
| US07874331B2 |
Pneumatic tire with tread having chamfer located in notch
The tread of a pneumatic tire has a plurality of tread elements separated by at least one groove, the tread elements having a depth as determined from an initial tread surface and the base of the at least one groove. The tread has at least one chamfer. The chamfer is divided into at least two inclined adjacent portions with the inclined adjacent portions being inclined at different inclination angles relative to the tread surface. The difference in inclination angles of the different portions is at least 10°. The inclined adjacent portions are both connected to an inclined common area, the inclined common area being adjacent to the initial tread surface. |
| US07874326B1 |
Multipurpose funnel system
An improved multipurpose funnel system for filling a container which prevents overflow during filling is self venting and is capable of filling hard to reach container locations. The system has a funnel removably coupled to a bottle cartridge which holds bottles therein. A pair of parallel rods hingedly connected to the bottle cartridge and having at least one hollow cone shaped spike extending outwardly therefrom. The funnel has a downspout having venting tubes, an elongated tip and a ball and socket mechanism. The elongated tip includes a check valve having an inside sleeve having an opening, and a spring. The inside sleeve extends outwardly and inwardly from the elongated tip, which opens and closes the opening. The elongated tip has an exterior lip extending outwardly therefrom. |
| US07874321B2 |
Industrial two-layer fabric
Each of lower side wefts of an industrial two-layer fabric passes over three successive lower side warps and then under the remaining two or more lower side warps thereby forming a lower side weft design including a lower-side-weft long crimp. The lower side layer of the fabric is formed by arranging lower side wefts adjacent to each other while repeatedly shifting the weft design according to one of the following shift patterns: shifting by three warps; shifting by four warps; shifting by five warps; shifting by one warp and then four warps; shifting by three warps and then four warps; shifting by two warps and then five warps; shifting by one warp and then six warps; and shifting by one warp, four warps, five warps, and then four warps. The lower-side-weft long crimp of the lower side layer has a rectangular shape. |
| US07874317B1 |
Micro pipeline pressure stabilization apparatus
A pressure stabilizer for mediating changes in pressure within a pipeline is provided. The pressure stabilizer incorporates a plurality of perforations about a central pipeline and a circumferential enclosure about the perforations. This structure allows excess fluid to flow from the central pipeline into the space provided between the central pipeline and the circumferential enclosure. As the pressure increases within the overflow space, the medium applies a pressure to an elastomeric membrane, which in turn transfers the pressure to a plurality of dampening materials. The elastomeric membrane can be filled with a porous material providing a smoother transition within the pressure dampening process. The elastomeric membrane and respective dampening materials can be placed within the circumferential enclosure assembled about the central pipeline or utilized with a pressure-stabilizing chamber. |
| US07874312B1 |
Water level controller
The specification and drawing figures describe and show an adjustable water level controller that includes a stanchion. The stanchion is mounted to a base. A sleeve is included that is movably adjustable on the stanchion. A water delivery device is attached to the sleeve. The base and stanchion are rotationally positioned in relationship to the sleeve to achieve the proper water level in a container in which the adjustable water level controller is positioned. |
| US07874311B1 |
Water valve locking device
A locking device for water valves having an actuation mechanism that couples to the water valve nut to secure the water valve. The actuation mechanism is contained within a container to limit access. The actuation mechanism is activated by a member that can be positioned in engagement with the actuation mechanism or out of engagement with the actuation mechanism. When position out of engagement with the actuation mechanism, the member can be secured to inhibit unauthorized access to the water valve nut. |
| US07874308B2 |
Rotating valve assembly
A valve/seal assembly that is adapted for use in a variety of applications, such as for example, medical, consumer beverage, pharmaceutical containers, automobile, household appliance and marine. The valve includes, a valve housing having an upper body portion and a lower body portion and a generally spherical valve member. The upper and lower body portions of the housing define an internal chamber for accommodating the valve member and a central axis for the valve. The generally spherical valve member is seated within the internal chamber of the valve housing and has an axial bore extending therethrough. The valve member is mounted for movement between an open position; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is axially aligned with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing, and a closed position; wherein the axial bore of the valve member is out of alignment with the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing. The valve assembly further includes a camming mechanism that is operatively associated with the valve housing and the valve member for moving the valve member between the open position and the closed position. |
| US07874304B2 |
Collapsible shelter
A shelter of the type having collapsed and expanded configurations. In one of several example embodiments, the expanded configuration includes a tunnel-shaped portion forming a pair of opposing side walls and a roof section. The roof section has a peak positioned above the side walls and the tunnel-shaped portion may include opposing ends with a first opening at the first end and a second opening at the second end, each opening capable of accommodating an end wall. A first sheet is foldable along at least first and second crease lines to define the walls and roof section, the walls having an upper separation distance between the first and second crease lines when the shelter is expanded. The first sheet is segmented into panels with pairs of adjoining panels forming pleats each having a vertex extending from a crease line to an adjoining footing flap, the walls having a lower separation distance between footing flaps on different walls when the shelter is expanded. The lower separation distance is greater than the upper separation distance resulting in at least one of the walls being canted with respect to a vertical orientation. |
| US07874303B2 |
Sliding device used on the supporting shaft
The present invention discloses a sliding device used on the supporting shaft, which utilizes the button to achieve singlehanded operation, utilizes horizontal slide of the bolt to achieve the steady locking of tiny clearance, and utilizes the active connection with relative turn and relative slide between the sliding base and the button to achieve transmission between the pressing of users and the horizontal slide of the bolt. |
| US07874300B2 |
Applicator and process for the production of an applicator
An applicator 12 and a process for the production of an applicator 12. The applicator serves for distributing a cosmetic preparation on the skin, semi-mucous membrane or mucous membrane and comprises a holding portion 18 and an applicator portion 30 which is injected on to the holding portion 18 in the direction of the longitudinal extent of the applicator 12, wherein both the holding portion 18 and also the applicator portion 30 at least partially comprise plastic material and the plastic material of the holding portion 18 is harder than the plastic material of the applicator portion 30 and wherein the holding portion 18 does not form a core which extends into the applicator portion 30 in the direction of the longitudinal extent. |
| US07874297B2 |
Tobacco substitute products
A tobacco-like product includes a coffee, tea, cocoa or soy base material. A flavor ingredient is added to the base material and the final product is formulated to a suitable form, such as lozenges, tablets, cakes, shredded, powdered and capsules. In the practice of the method of the present invention, a tobacco-like product is manufactured by selecting a base material, drying the base material, converting the base material, adding a flavor ingredient, adjusting a caffeine content, processing the combined ingredients, formulating the final product and packaging the final product. |
| US07874294B2 |
Device for preventing bruxism
A device for preventing bruxism comprises a carrier (1) intended for receiving in a mouth of a user. The carrier (1) comprises at least a part (2,3) of an electronic biofeedback system. According to the invention the carrier comprises a jaw-shaped body which is adapted to lie only on an outer side against at least a part of a jaw of the user. |
| US07874293B2 |
Nasal assembly
A nasal assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an integrally formed first connector portion. A nozzle assembly includes a gusset or base portion and a pair of nozzles. At least one inlet conduit is structured to deliver breathable gas into the frame and nozzle assembly for breathing by the patient. A pair of second connector portions are removably and rotatably connected to respective first connector portions of the frame and are in communication with respective inlet conduits, e.g., directly or via angle connectors. A headgear assembly is removably connected to the pair of second connector portions and/or the angle connectors so as to maintain the frame and the nozzle assembly in a desired adjusted position on the patient's face. |
| US07874291B2 |
Ergonomic and adjustable respiratory mask assembly with frame
A respiratory mask assembly for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having a front surface and a rear surface, opposite the front surface, and adapted in use to face the patient. The frame defines an inner wall and an outer wall extending from the rear surface, the inner and outer walls being spaced to define a channel therebetween. A cushion is removably attachable to the frame such that the cushion and frame are repeatably engagable with and disengagable from one another. The cushion includes a side wall to be inserted into the channel of the frame, the side wall having a first interlocking surface that engages a second interlocking surface provided in the channel when the cushion and frame are engaged with one another. The first and second interlocking surfaces interlock with one another to removably attach the cushion to the frame. |
| US07874287B1 |
Air intake apparatus
The air intake apparatus provides for additional auxiliary air to a wood or pellet burning stove. The apparatus is provided in more than one embodiment for fit to more than one type of stove. The curved T-handle controls the damper sleeve for dampened control of the auxiliary air. |
| US07874284B2 |
Fuel supply system having fuel filter installed downstream of feed pump
A fuel supply system for an accumulator fuel injection system designed to inject fuel, as stored in an accumulator, into an internal combustion engine through a fuel injector The fuel supply system includes a feed pump working to pump the fuel out of a fuel tank and a fuel filter disposed between the feed pump and a high-pressure pump working to deliver the fuel to the accumulator. The fuel supply system also includes a return path and a control valve. When the pressure of the fuel between the fuel filter and the flow rate control valve exceeds a first set pressure, the control valve opens the return path to return the fuel from downstream to upstream of the feed pump to keep the pressure of fuel supplied to the flow rate control valve below the first set pressure, thereby controlling the flow rate of the fuel passing through the fuel filter. |
| US07874280B2 |
Homogeneous charge compression ignition engine
An HCCI engine provides a negative overlap period in an operation during HCCI combustion. During the negative overlap period, an intake valve and an exhaust valve are both closed when a piston is in the vicinity of the top dead center in an exhaust stroke, so that burned gas remains inside a combustion chamber. The engine is provided with a throttle, a fuel valve and an ECU. The ECU controls the throttle during a switching period in which SI combustion is switched to the HCCI combustion so that the opening degree of the throttle increases to the opening degree at the time of steady HCCI operation from the opening degree at the time of steady SI operation, and at the same time, controls the fuel valve such that the amount of fuel supplied to the intake passage becomes greater than the amount at the time of the steady SI operation. |
| US07874278B2 |
Intake port of internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine wherein the top wall surface of the intake air inflow passage part of the intake port is formed by a first top wall surface and a second top wall surface lower than the first top wall surface and wherein a lower layer flow passage and an upper layer flow passage are formed at the height position of the second top wall surface as a boundary. When the intake valve opens, a lower layer flow flowing through the inside of the lower layer flow passage passes through the intake valve opening region, flows to the circumferential direction of the combustion chamber, and generates a swirl, while an upper layer flow flowing through the inside of the upper layer flow passage passes through the helical part and flows into the combustion chamber. |
| US07874275B1 |
Portable gas powered internal combustion engine arrangement
A gas powered internal combustion engine in which the gas is provided from pressurized liquid gas in an LPG container and in which the LPG container is rigidly mounted adjacent to the internal combustion engine at a preselected angle to be in conductive heat transfer relationship to the internal combustion engine and in vibration receiving relationship to the internal combustion engine whereby the liquified gas in the LPG container is heated and the effective surface area thereof is increased. |
| US07874273B2 |
Camshaft adjuster and method for setting a limiting position for a camshaft adjuster
A camshaft adjuster (1), in which an adjustment of the camshaft adjuster is limited by a limiting element (11) is provided. The limiting element (11) is connected by an eccentric to the associated component (3), in particular, to an inner rotor. By use of an eccentric adjustment of the limiting element, the position of the limiting element in the peripheral direction can be adapted according to the production conditions within the tolerance range. In this way, the mounting of the camshaft adjuster is simplified and the achievable accuracy of the limiting position is improved. |
| US07874272B2 |
Method of variable valve timing in an internal combustion engine
A method of variable valve timing in an internal combustion engine in which the valve opening and closing timing of the actuated gas exchange valves of the internal combustion engine can be varied as a function of engine speed by adjusting means for adjusting at least one camshaft relative to a crankshaft, said internal combustion engine comprising hydraulic valve lash adjusters for adjusting a valve lash of the gas exchange valves, said lash adjusters being configured at least on one of an inlet side and an outlet side as idle stroke elements which, when actuated, at first produce an engine speed-dependent idle stroke and to provide a method of variable valve timing for internal combustion engines comprising a camshaft adjustment and a hydraulic valve adjustment with an idle stroke function that guarantees favorable valve timing in all operational situations of the internal combustion engine and, at the same time, improves the thermodynamic exploitation of such internal combustion engines, at each adjustment of the at least one camshaft, the respective idle stroke of the valve lash adjusters is taken into account. |
| US07874271B2 |
Method of operating a valve apparatus for an internal combustion engine
A method includes operating an internal combustion engine according to a four-stroke combustion cycle. The four-stroke combustion cycle includes a combustion stroke, an exhaust stroke, an intake stroke and a compression stroke. A valve associated with a cylinder of the internal combustion engine is opened at a first time during the four-stroke combustion cycle. The valve is closed at a second time during the four-stroke combustion cycle. The valve is opened at a third time during the four-stroke combustion cycle. The valve is closed at a fourth time during the four-stroke combustion cycle. |
| US07874261B2 |
Stage apparatus and coating treatment device
A stage apparatus includes a stage over which a substrate is to be transferred, and a levitation mechanism which levitates the substrate over the stage. The stage includes a plurality of gas spray ports (16a) to spray a gas for levitating the substrate (G), and a plurality of suction ports (16b) to take in air sprayed from the gas spray ports (16a). The plurality of gas spray ports (16a) and the plurality of suction ports (16b) are set not to be arranged on straight lines parallel to a substrate transfer direction in a predetermined length along the substrate transfer direction. |
| US07874244B2 |
Self contained popcorn popper
An improved popcorn popper (10) has effluent filtration structure to treat the oil laden vapor and steam effluent from popping popcorn within the popper and with discharge of effluent having less than 5 milligrams of particulates per cubic meter of effluent discharged directly into the area in which the popper (10) is located. There is no need for external hoods or for external ducting of effluent to outside the area and facility in which the popcorn is popped. The filtering is carried out within the popper (10). A fire suppression system is provided to handle fires even within the kettle (14). Methods are disclosed. |
| US07874243B2 |
Beverage freshness monitoring system and method
A timer system for monitoring the freshness of a beverage in a plurality of carafes, and a method of use are disclosed. The timer system comprises a plurality of matched pairs of timers and signaling members, with each timer being individually actuateable and each signaling member being drivingly controlled by its matched timer to issue a signal after the matched timer has operated for a preset period of time. A housing mountable on a beverage preparation device houses the timers. A plurality of tags are mounted to a plurality of carafes to create a plurality of matched carafes that correspond to the plurality of matched pairs of timers and signaling members. After the beverage in a matched carafe is prepared, the matched timer is activated. After the timer has operated for a preset period of time, the matched signaling member then issues a signal, permitting the monitoring of the freshness of the beverage in the matched carafe. |
| US07874242B2 |
Piston assembly in fluid pressure cylinder
The piston 4 comprises a fixing ring 8 mounted on a piston rod 6, and a piston body 10 fixed to the fixing ring 8. The fixing ring 8 is comprised of two semi-circular plated members 8A, 8B having plural threaded holes 8a for bolt-fastening of the piston body 10. When they are abutted against each other and formed into a circular-annular shape, a hole portion 8c which is to be tightly fitted in a fixing groove 6a of the piston rod 6 is formed. The piston body 10 has a hole portion 10a which is to be fitted over the piston rod 6, and plural bolt holes 10c corresponding to the threaded holes 8a. Moreover, the piston body 10 has a concave portion 10d on a side of one surface thereof, in which the fixing ring 8 is fitted in an embedded state. |
| US07874241B2 |
Electronically controllable and testable turbine trip system
A tripping control system for use with, for example, turbines, includes a block circuit having two or more redundant blocking valves disposed or connected in series within a pressure supply line to block the supply of hydraulic fluid within the pressure supply line and a bleed circuit having two or more bleed valves connected in parallel between the pressure supply line and a return or dump line to bleed to the hydraulic fluid from the pressure supply line. The blocking valves and the bleed valves are actuated by one or more control valves under the control of a process or safety controller which trips the turbine by first performing a bleed function using the bleed valves, which then causes the block function to automatically actuate. Pressure sensors disposed at various locations in the tripping control system provide feedback to the controller to enable the controller to test each of the block and bleed valves individually, during operation of the turbine, without causing an actual trip of the turbine. The tripping control system thereby provides reliable trip operation during a trip by providing redundant block and bleed functionality in combination with enabling the individual components of the block and bleed circuits to be tested while the turbine is online and operating but without preventing the turbine from being tripped, if necessary, during the test. |
| US07874235B2 |
Game field dressing safety tool
The right handed hunter uses a special safety tool having a pistol grip handle firmly gripped by the hunter's left hand and having a slot formed in a forward portion of the safety tool for receiving a knife blade with its cutting blade up during dressing of the game. With the right hand of the hunter gripping the knife handle and holding the knife blade within the slot, he pushing the safety tool forward with his left hand while pushing the knife forward with his right hand to form an elongated cut in the game. This arrangement ensures that both hands are safely kept well away from the cutting edge of the knife blade while forming the elongated cut. The slot is a deep one, formed in the forward portion of the safety tool, enabling the tool to receive types of widely used knife blades of any shape. |
| US07874232B2 |
Quick-change socket and hex key retainer assembly for a fastener installation tool
A system, apparatus, and method for installing fasteners are disclosed involving a fastener installation tool and a socket assembly. The fastener installation tool comprises a tool component and a gear head. The gear head comprises a lever, a retaining slide, a retaining slide housing, and at least one gear. The socket assembly comprises a socket, a hex key, and a hex key retainer. An end of the drive shaft of the socket has an annular groove around the circumference of the exterior surface of the drive shaft. When the retaining slide is slid into a locked position, the retaining slide engages the annular groove of the drive shaft of the socket, thereby attaching the drive shaft of the socket to the gear head of the fastener installation tool. A socket gear of the gear head matingly engages the drive shaft of the socket to rotate the socket. |
| US07874231B2 |
Striking tool
A hammer that that reduces vibration and provides advantageous balance and mass distribution having a handle portion comprising an I-shape sectional profile and a head comprising a cavity formed therethrough. The hammer may further comprise various nail or other fastener removal structures, such as a claw, slots, notches, or the like. The hammer may further include a nail-starter with magnetic nail retention. |
| US07874227B2 |
Teleoperable electromechanical device
The user's movement of the joints on a master mechanism is converted to electrical energy to control a kinematically similar arrangement of joints on a slave mechanism. Bi-directional, dynamic, force reflecting control of the slave mechanism is provided without a need for sensors, software, computers, or external power sources. |
| US07874226B2 |
Transmission heater system and method
A method for heating a transmission is provided. The transmission has at least one solenoid valve that hydraulically actuates a valve. The method includes the steps of measuring a transmission temperature, determining whether the transmission temperature is greater than or equal to a desired operating temperature, determining a currently selected gear ratio of the transmission, and overdriving at least one solenoid valve if the transmission has not achieved the desired operating temperature and if overdriving the solenoid valve will not disrupt the operation of the transmission for the currently selected gear ratio. |
| US07874224B2 |
Transmission for tractor
A transmission for a tractor has an input shaft receiving power from an engine, an idle shaft disposed parallel with the input shaft, an output shaft disposed parallel with the idle shaft and transmitting power to a main transmission part, forward/reverse driving gears installed on the input shaft so as to rotate idle, a forward/reverse clutch installed between the forward driving gear and the reverse driving gear to selectively connect the forward driving gear or the reverse driving gear to the input shaft, a forward driven gear installed on the idle shaft and engaged with the forward driving gear, a reverse driven gear installed on the idle shaft and engaged with the reverse driving gear, high speed/low speed driving gears installed between the forward driven gear and the reverse driven gear so as to rotate idle, a high speed/low speed clutch installed between the high speed driving gear and the low speed driving gear to selectively connect the high speed driving gear or the low speed driving gear to the idle shaft, and high speed/low speed driven gears installed on the output shaft and engaged with the high speed driving gear and the low speed driving gear, respectively. |
| US07874217B2 |
Method and apparatus for applying axial stress for weld testing
A method for testing the integrity of a weld on a pipe includes the application of an axial stress on the weld during the integrity test. Ali assembly for performing the method is also provided, wherein a pair of circumferential supports are provided on the pipe on opposite sides of the weld, and between which extend axial force applying devices. In one aspect, the invention is used to test a weld securing a flange to a pipe. The invention also provides novel circumferential clamps for securing to the exterior of pipes. |
| US07874215B2 |
Accelerometer including diaphragm and power generator and motor including same
An accelerometer includes a pressure transducer; and a vibration-to-pressure converter (VPC). The VPC may include a housing mechanically coupled to an object to be measured, and a diaphragm sealing the housing to form a chamber, the chamber being fluidly coupled to the pressure transducer. A power generator and motor including the accelerometer are also presented. |
| US07874211B2 |
Measuring method and measuring device using quartz oscillator
An object of the present invention is that any of mass load, viscous load and viscoelasticity load is measured separately from other load whereby properties of the substance to be measured are able to be measured correctly.The characteristic feature of the present invention is that, in a method where property of a substance contacting to a quartz oscillator equipped with electrodes on both sides of a quartz plate is measured on the basis of the changes in frequency of the above quartz oscillator, the property of the above substance is measured using at least two frequencies among the n-th overtone mode frequency (n=1, 3, 5, . . . (n=2k+1)) of quartz oscillator when voltage is applied between the above electrodes and using frequencies F1, F2 (F1 |
| US07874210B2 |
Ultrasonic sensor assembly and method
An ultrasonic point level measurement instrument comprises a measurement circuit and a transducer. The transducer transmits and receives acoustic signals under control of the measurement circuit. An improvement in the transducer comprises a transducer housing including a pair of spaced apart legs to define a gap therebetween. Each leg includes an interior cavity. A pair of crystal assemblies each comprise a crystal mounted to a circuit board. The circuit board includes conduction paths for connection between the crystal and a terminal pad. Each crystal assembly is received in the interior cavity of one of the legs with the circuit board spacing the crystal from walls of the leg. A pair of cables are each connected between the measurement circuit and the terminal pad of one of the crystal assemblies so that the measurement circuit detects presence of a material in the gap. |
| US07874208B2 |
System for and method of providing a wide-range flow controller
An improved flow measuring device, such as a mass flow meter or mass flow controller, providing a high turn-down ratio as compared to prior art devices. In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, a flow sensor includes a sensor flow path that includes one or more restrictions configured to provide the sensor flow path with a non-linear relationship between a pressure drop across the sensor flow path and the flow of fluid through the flow sensor conduit. Such a flow sensor preferably achieves a high turn-down ratio by way of a variable bypass ratio that is directly proportional to the sensor tube mass flow rate so that the turn-down ratio of the mass flow controller will be ideally proportional to the square of the turndown achievable by the flow sensor conduit fluid sensing portion alone. In some embodiments, the restriction can be employed as a part of a fluid seal having an orifice and disposed between a flow sensor portion of a flow meter and a bypass portion of the flow meter. |
| US07874195B2 |
Liquid proving system
A liquid proving system is provided with a bottom drain liquid prover draining into a holding tank. The fill opening of the prover has a prover fill opening self sealing assembly that remains closed except when a nozzle used to pump liquid into the prover is pushed through the opening of the prover fill opening self sealing assembly. The prover fill opening self sealing assembly may comprise a nozzle sealing gasket and a nozzle removed self seal assembly. There is a vapor conduit connecting the interior of the prover in the region of the fill opening and the interior of the holding tank to form a saturated vapor environment in the prover and holding tank from the vapors emitted from liquid in the holing tank. When liquid is pumped into the prover evaporation of the liquid being pumped into the prover, and release of vapors from the prover, is inhibited due to the saturated vapor environment in the prover, which results in a more accurate prover measurement of liquid pumped into the prover. |
| US07874193B2 |
Crimping die and crimping tool
The invention relates to a crimping die (12,14,16,18) and a crimping tool (2) comprising at least three crimping dies (12,14,16,18) that are guided for displacement in the crimping tool (2), where each of the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) have a respective crimping surface (42,44,46,48) and a respective sliding surface (50,52,54,56), where the crimping surfaces (42,44,46,48) together form a crimping opening (36), said crimping surface (42,44,46,48) of each crimping die (12,14,16,18) slidably abutting said sliding surface (50,52,54,56), of an adjacent die, where the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) have pivot points (29,31,33,35) that are arranged movable relative to the body of the crimping tool (2) and where a linkage (11) is arranged to guide the movement of the pivot points (29,31,33,35) of the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) relative to the body (4) of the crimping tool (2) producing a movement between the pivot points (29,31,33,35) of the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) and the body (4) of the crimping tool (2), and where the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) have tooth flanks (66,68) arranged to cooperate with tooth flanks (60,62) in the body (4) of the crimping tool (2), whereby the crimping surfaces (42,44,46,48) of the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) are arranged to act on the workpiece (19) to be crimped without the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) sliding on the surface of the body (4) of the tool (2) thereby decreasing the wear between the crimping dies (12,14,16,18) and the body (4) of the tool (2. |
| US07874190B2 |
Electromechanical lock cylinder
The invention concerns an electromechanical lock cylinder that cooperates with evaluation electronics to recognize access authorization and has a housing that includes two opposite cylindrical receptacles, in which a lock core, which can be operated by a key, or a knob shaft, which is connected to rotate in unison with a know, are mounted to rotation, in which the lock core and/or knob shaft cooperate with a lock tab, which operates, in particular, a bolt or latch with a door lock, and, with a fitting key or access authorization, an electromechanically driven blocking or coupling element is moved from the rest position to an operating position and produces a splined connection between the key or knob and the lock tab, characterized by the fact that the lock tab is freely rotatable relative to the two lock cores or the two knob shafts in the rest position of the blocking or coupling element. |
| US07874189B2 |
Field-reversible cabinet latch lock
A four-way, field-reversible self-latching cabinet lock includes a cylinder and plug assembly shell that is rotatable with respect to a bolt housing cover for the lock. A locking device is provided to fix the cylinder and plug assembly shell in one of four orthogonal positions with respect to the bolt housing cover. The bolt housing cover is receivable by a bolt housing and conventional self-latching latch bolt. In this manner, pins in the cylinder and plug assembly may be retained in a desirable vertical position while a throw of the bolt can be adjusted to vertical, inverted, left-hand, and right-hand positions in the field without special tools or additional parts. |
| US07874179B2 |
Method for removal of gaseous inclusions from viscous liquids
A method for removal of gaseous inclusions from a viscous liquid in which a layer of filter particles is positioned in the viscous liquid and the viscous liquid is passed through the layer of filter particles, whereby the gaseous inclusions combine or coalesce within the layer of filter particles, forming larger gaseous inclusions which rise to the top of the viscous liquid and escape therefrom. |
| US07874175B2 |
Heat engine / heat pump using centrifugal fans
An engine/heat pump is shown. Most of its parts rotate around the same central axis. It comprises two doubly connected chambers. Blades in each chamber substantially rotate with the chamber and may be firmly attached to the walls of the chamber, thus forming a modified centrifugal pump with axial input and discharge. An expandable fluid is rotated outward by one of the pumps and then heat is added for an engine or removed for a heat pump as the fluid is being sent to the outer part of the second pump. The fluid travels toward the center of the second pump, thus impelling the pump in the rotation direction. Then heat is removed for an engine or added for a heat pump as the fluid leaves the second pump and travels back to the first pump near the center of rotation of both pumps. Rotation energy of the fluid is typically much larger than the circulation energy. A modified centrifugal pump with axial discharge having a casing rotating with the blades is also claimed. |
| US07874174B2 |
Humidity control system
A humidity control system during humidification operation sequentially repeats a first mode in which a second adsorption heat exchanger (82) serves as an evaporator and the remaining adsorption heat exchangers serve as evaporators, a second mode in which a third adsorption heat exchanger (83) serves as an evaporator and the remaining adsorption heat exchangers serve as evaporators and a third mode in which a first adsorption heat exchanger (81) serves as an evaporator and the remaining adsorption heat exchangers serve as evaporators. For example, during the first mode, the first adsorption heat exchanger (81) serving as an evaporator adsorbs moisture in a first air. Furthermore, in the second adsorption heat exchanger (82) serving as a condenser, the adsorbent is regenerated to humidify a second air. Furthermore, in the third adsorption heat exchanger (83) serving as an evaporator, the second air given moisture and heat in the second adsorption heat exchanger (82) is cooled. The humidity control system supplies the second air humidified by the second adsorption heat exchanger (82) and cooled by the third adsorption heat exchanger (83) to a room. |
| US07874172B2 |
Damper
An air flow control mechanism for a refrigerator or freezer is disclosed comprising at least one knob to regulate by its adjustment, air flow within a compartment, the knob including at least one end, and wherein said knob is configured to rotate, a cam including a base, a groove and a receiving end, wherein the cam base includes the groove, wherein the groove is a semi-circular shape and is un-centered with regards to the cam base and wherein said receiving end receives said knob end, a crank having a first end a second end, wherein said first end is inserted in the semi-circular groove of said cam base and is configured to run said groove when the user adjusts the knob, a rod having a front end and a back end, wherein said front end is connected to said crank second end, and an obturator connected with said rod back end. Said cam base has the same rotation degree than the knob and wherein the rotational movement of said knob is transformed and transmitted to the crank and consequently the rod. |
| US07874169B2 |
Power management system for integrated transport refrigeration unit
A power management system (36) supplies power to a refrigeration unit (20) of a vehicle (22). When a vehicle engine (40) is running, the refrigeration unit receives power from a DC power source (38). When the vehicle engine is not operating, power is supplied through an AC source (46). A converter (42) within the power management system converts the AC power to Dc power and sends the power to the refrigeration unit. If the user attempts to start the vehicle engine when the refrigeration unit is receiving power through the converter, there is conflict in power supply. The power management system will activate an alarm (48) to alert the user to an attempt to power the refrigeration unit with two different power systems. |
| US07874166B2 |
Cooling and climate conditioning system for a vehicle
A cooling system for a vehicle comprises a compressor for compressing refrigerant, the compressor being adapted to be driven by a power source installed in the vehicle, a condenser for receiving compressed refrigerant from the compressor, an expansion device for expanding refrigerant from the condenser, and a liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger for receiving refrigerant from the expansion device and exchanging heat between the refrigerant and a liquid. The liquid may comprise a coolant, and a pump may be provided for pumping the coolant through the heat exchanger to a point of use such as a cooling garment to cool personnel on board the vehicle. Alternatively, the liquid may be a drinkable liquid which is pumped through the heat exchanger to a suitable dispensing system to provide an on-board supply of cool drinking liquid. |
| US07874164B2 |
Fuel nozzle flange with reduced heat transfer
A fuel nozzle for a gas turbine engine comprises a nozzle body defining a passage extending therethrough and a flange around the nozzle body extending radially and outwardly from the nozzle body. The flange defines a mounting face thereof and a plurality of mounting holes in the mounting face extending through the flange. The mounting face includes a contacting land protruding from the mounting face for abutting a mounting surface of a support structure of the engine when the fuel nozzle is mounted to the support structure. |
| US07874163B2 |
Starter generator system for a tip turbine engine
A starter-generator system for a tip turbine engine includes a starter motor with a fixed starter generator stator and a starter generator rotor. The fixed starter generator stator is mounted to a static inner support housing. The starter generator rotor surrounds the fixed starter generator stator and is engagement with the axial compressor rotor. |
| US07874160B2 |
Nozzle-area ratio float bias
A mechanism included in a convergent-divergent nozzle connected to an aft portion of a gas turbine engine, which mechanism includes a convergent flap configured to be kinematically connected to the aft portion of the gas turbine engine, a divergent flap pivotally connected to the convergent flap and configured to be kinematically connected to the aft portion of the gas turbine engine, at least one actuator configured to be connected to the aft portion of the gas turbine engine and to mechanically prescribe the position of the convergent flap and the divergent flap by moving through one or more positions, and at least one biasing apparatus. The biasing apparatus is configured to position at least one of the convergent flap and the divergent flap independent of the positions of the actuator by substantially balancing a force on the at least one of the convergent flap and the divergent flap produced by a gas pressure on the nozzle. |
| US07874155B2 |
Systems and methods for energy storage and recovery using rapid isothermal gas expansion and compression
The invention relates to systems and methods for rapidly and isothermally expanding and compressing gas in energy storage and recovery systems that use open-air hydraulic-pneumatic cylinder assemblies, such as an accumulator and an intensifier in communication with a high-pressure gas storage reservoir on a gas-side of the circuits and a combination fluid motor/pump, coupled to a combination electric generator/motor on the fluid side of the circuits. The systems use heat transfer subsystems in communication with at least one of the cylinder assemblies or reservoir to thermally condition the gas being expanded or compressed. |
| US07874153B2 |
Hydrostatic drive and method of braking a hydrostatic drive
The invention relates to a hydrostatic drive (1) and to a method of braking a hydrostatic drive (1). In the hydrostatic drive (1), in a closed circuit a hydraulic pump (3) is connected by a first and a second working line (11, 12) to a hydraulic motor (4). The hydrostatic drive (1) comprises a brake actuation device (37) as well as at least one pressure relief valve (26, 30), which is connected to the working line disposed downstream of the hydraulic motor (4). The hydraulic pump (3) upon detection of an actuation of the brake actuation device (37) is adjustable to a braking delivery rate. The hydraulic motor (4) is adjusted in dependence upon the actuating intensity of the brake actuation device (37) in the direction of a larger absorption volume if the actuating intensity of the brake actuation device (37) increases. |
| US07874151B2 |
Dual mode hydraulic circuit control and method
A dual mode control system for a hydraulic circuit (200) having a variable displacement pump (216) includes at least two actuators, each controlled by a respective valve. The valves are connected in series with a pressure sensor (250) measuring a pressure of fluid between the first valve (224) and the second valve (234) and relaying a signal to the electronic controller (202). The electronic controller (202) operates in a first mode, varying the displacement of the pump (216) based on a command signal operating at least one of the valves, and operates in a standby mode, varying the displacement of the pump (216) based on the signal from the sensor, when both valves are in their respective neutral positions. |
| US07874143B2 |
Air-fuel ratio control apparatus of internal combustion engine and control method thereof
An air-fuel ratio control apparatus and control method thereof performs air-fuel ratio feedback control based on an estimated value (i.e., an upstream side estimated air-fuel ratio) of an air-fuel ratio of gas discharged from a combustion chamber into an exhaust passage and an output value of an air-fuel ratio sensor downstream of a catalyst. This upstream side estimated air-fuel ratio is accurately estimated based on an operating state of the engine and a combustion state (i.e., the degree of misfire in the combustion chamber) of the engine. |
| US07874140B2 |
Method of and power plant for generating power by oxyfuel combustion
A method of and a power plant for generating power by combusting carbonaceous fuel with substantially pure oxygen, and a method of modifying a process of generating power by combusting carbonaceous fuel from combusting the fuel with air to combusting the fuel with substantially pure oxygen. The methods include feeding substantially pure oxygen into a furnace for combusting fuel with the oxygen to produce exhaust gas including mainly carbon dioxide and water, recovering low-grade heat from the exhaust gas by using multiple exhaust gas coolers arranged in a downstream portion of the exhaust gas channel, wherein a first portion of the recovered low-grade heat is used for preheating feedwater; pressurizing a first portion of the exhaust gas in multiple exhaust gas compressors so as to produce liquid carbon dioxide, recycling a second portion of the exhaust gas to the furnace via an exhaust gas recycling channel, using a first portion of steam extracted from a steam turbine system to preheat feedwater, wherein the first portion of the recovered low-grade heat is more than 50% of the total amount of recovered low-grade heat, or larger than the first portion of the recovered low-grade heat in the air-fired process, allowing minimizing of the first portion of the extracted steam, and the expanding of a second portion of the extracted steam in at least one auxiliary steam turbine for driving at least one compressor or at least one pump of the power plant. |
| US07874138B2 |
Segmented annular combustor
A combustor for use in a turbine engine including a compressor section, a combustion section downstream from the compressor section, and a turbine section downstream from the combustion section. An inner annulus wall extends from a burner end of the combustor to an outlet end of the combustor. An outer annulus wall is disposed outwardly from the inner annulus wall and extends from the burner end of the combustor to the outlet end of the combustor. A passageway is formed between the inner annulus wall and the outer annulus wall and extends from a combustion zone to the outlet end of the combustor. A plurality of symmetrically distributed section walls extends between the inner annulus wall and the outer annulus wall from the burner end of the combustor toward the outlet end of the combustor. The section walls divide the combustion zone into a plurality of segments. |
| US07874137B2 |
Gas turbine engine anti-ice formation device and system
An anti-ice formation device for a gas turbine engine is configured to be mounted within an inlet duct of the engine, and adjacent the gas turbine engine compressor inlet. The device is configured to selectively receive a flow of compressed air that is discharged from the compressor. Because the compressed air is relatively hot, the anti-ice formation device temperature increases to a temperature sufficient to prevent ice accumulation and formation in the engine inlet duct. The anti-ice formation device is also configured such that heat is not transferred to the compressor inlet housing. As a result, the anti-ice formation device does not cause impeller clearance variations, which would adversely affect engine performance. |
| US07874131B2 |
Three-dimensional, shock-absorbing, ergonomic, anti-blocking ridings stirrup that can be adapted to the weight of the rider and comprises a foot assisting mechanism
A riding stirrup includes a supporting structure terminating in a solid shape and a mechanical assembly pivotably mounted on the supporting structure and around the solid shape. Additionally, the riding stirrup includes a floor assembly including at least one U-shaped profile, a floor, and one or more resilient structures, wherein the floor assembly is mounted on the mechanical assembly for vertical movement relative to an axis of the solid shape. |
| US07874130B2 |
Ice cream sandwich-making machine
An improved wrapping apparatus for an ice-cream sandwich-making machine comprises an oscillating arm and cam which drives a horizontal slider plate connected to a frame, and a pusher unit connected to an air cylinder; an improved paper feeder system, including separate paper and knife drives, air compression springs, and a paper low sensor; and a hinged exit tray. |
| US07874122B2 |
Methods for creating footings
Methods are provided for creating footings for structures proximate a wall face of a segmental retaining wall using a device that includes a sleeve and a reinforcing member having a base. The methods can include placing the device on a layer of backfill material behind the wall face so that the sleeve is located adjacent the wall face and the base of the reinforcing member extends away from the wall face, covering the base of the reinforcing member with at least one other layer of the backfill material, placing a bottom portion of the structure in the sleeve, and filling the sleeve with an anchoring material. |
| US07874121B1 |
Weatherproofing system for window and door installation
A weatherproofing system for installing windows and doors is described and has a front seal and a real seal. The seals include clear, pressure-activated adhesives and seal against attaching hardware. The rear seal has a is self-setting foam web and molds to the flange of the window unit. When installed, the foam is compressed between the inner window frame and rough opening and between the window flange and the wall surface adjacent the rough opening. The system extends beyond the flange of the window unit and receives the weatherproofing membrane thereover. The weatherproofing system acts as a sealed bridge between the membrane and the window unit precluding entry of air and water. Both the foam and the adhesive have fire retardants in the formulation thereof. The rear seal is provided in a tape form with a self-skinned foam layer and a sheet form with polymeric covering web. |
| US07874120B2 |
Connecting structure for steel frame columns and steel frame girders
Sufficient yield strength is achieved against tensile, compressive and shearing forces working on steel frame columns and steel frame girders by using simply configured connective fittings to reduce costs and construction periods. For this purpose, a connective structure of highly rigid steel frame columns and steel frame girders formed by connecting steel frame columns and steel frame girders each having a web part and flange parts with connective fittings is provided. Each of the connective fittings has a bottom plate part and, on a surface of the bottom plate part, side plate parts which rise at a substantially right angle to the bottom plate part and have inserting areas extending farther than a tip of the bottom plate part in the state of rising at the substantially right angle. On the other hand, slit holes are formed in the flange parts of the steel frame columns in the area where the flange parts cross the flange parts of the steel frame girders, the inserting areas of the side plate parts are inserted into the slit holes, the inserting areas of the side plate parts are fixed in a state of opposing the web parts of the steel frame columns, and the bottom plate parts of the connective fittings are fixed in a state of opposing the flange parts of the steel frame girders. |
| US07874117B1 |
Standing seam roof assembly
A standing seam formed by overlapping male and female sidelaps, the male sidelap forming a male locking tab and the a female sidelap forming a female first cavity, a female second cavity and a female third cavity, the sidelaps hook and rolled and interconnected so that a female first portion and a male first portion are substantially parallel, a female second portion and male second portion are substantially parallel, and a female third portion and male locking tab are substantially parallel, the junction of the male first and second portions is disposed in the female first cavity, the junction of the male second and third portions is disposed in the female second cavity, and the male locking tab is disposed in the female third cavity, the female third portion and male locking tab extending toward the female and male first portions. |
| US07874112B2 |
Footer cleat for insulating concrete form
Methods of constructing concrete walls that include placing a plurality of cleats along a wall perimeter, securing the cleats to a surface under the wall perimeter, placing a plurality of insulating concrete forms along the perimeter, and placing concrete into the insulating concrete forms to form the insulating concrete wall. The cleats include a base plate, a first vertical flange extending approximately perpendicular from the base plate, and a second vertical flange extending approximately parallel to the first vertical flange. The space defined by the first vertical flange, second vertical flange and the base plate, is adapted to receive a bottom portion of a form component or a bottom portion of a form. The insulating concrete forms are placed along the perimeter such that a bottom portion of the form components or a bottom portion of the form are press fit into the defined space. |
| US07874107B1 |
Convertible hard side shelter
A hard side shelter is convertible between transport and deployed modes. When in the transport mode, the shelter has an envelope that is the same as an ISO cargo container. Side sections unfold from a center section to convert the shelter into the deployed mode. A side section floor is connected to the center section for rotating between being coplanar with the center section floor when in the deployed mode and vertical and lying in a center section side plane when in the transport mode. Each side section has end and middle panels that are turnable relative to each other, and a door assembly that is turnable relative to the middle panels. Locking bars engage the center section floor when the shelter is in the transport mode, and engage the side section floors when the shelter is in the deployed mode. The shelter is handleable by pallet handling systems. |
| US07874106B2 |
Sill flashing and end dam assembly
Various embodiments of the invention are directed to a sill flashing assembly configured to fit within a lower portion of an opening in a wall. The sill flashing assembly comprises: (1) a central sill flashing member having a substantially horizontal portion and a substantially vertical portion; and (2) at least one end dam member. The substantially vertical portion extends upwardly adjacent an interior edge of the substantially horizontal portion, and the substantially vertical portion defines at least one channel. The end dam member has a planar base and at least one tab extending at an angle greater than zero degrees from an interior edge of the planar base. The tab has a height that is shorter than a height of the interior edge of the planar base, and the tab engages the channel when the end dam member is installed adjacent an end of the central sill flashing member. |
| US07874105B2 |
Roof structure with snow guard and method of installing
A roof structure and a method of installing a snow guard on the base of a roof is provided, wherein the roof structure includes a plurality of synthetic shingles of thermoplastic materials, and where a snow guard is provided having an outwardly projecting snow-engaging platform and an oppositely provided hook at an upper end, wherein the hook is adapted to engage over and upper edge of a butt portion of one or more shingles in an underlying course of shingles, and wherein a tab portion of a shingle in a next-overlying course of shingles is disposed over the upper end of the snow guard, substantially covering its base, and wherein the snow-engaging platform is adapted to receive snow and ice that may slide down the roof, to intercept the same or break the snow or ice up into small harmless particles. The synthetic shingles of thermoplastic materials allow for the upward bending of the overlying tab portions of shingles a substantial amount within their elastic limit, to permit insertion of snow guards under tab portions of overlying shingles, where such tab portions of overlying shingles are already-installed on a roof, followed by a relaxation of the upwardly bent tab portions of shingles back to a flattened condition overlying the butt portions of shingles in an underlying course of shingles, and overlying the base of the snow guard between the platform and hook, due to the inherent memory of the original flattened shape of the shingles that have their tab portions flexibly upwardly bent. |
| US07874100B2 |
Trellis and tool system
A trellis system of the invention comprises a trellis and tool in combination. The trellis includes multiple legs and one or more horizontal supports. The tool includes a tray and a coning tool. The tray is adapted to slidably engage the legs by way of engagement means. The coning tool is adapted to engage the ends of the legs to facilitate shaping the trellis into a conical or pyramidal frame if desired. The trellis system can be used as a plant growth support and/or to hold potted plants. It can be installed into the ground or an existing potted plant. The trellis can be inverted position, the trellis can be used as a frame to build ornamental Christmas trees. The trellis can be a break down type of trellis including at least two horizontal supports and at least three segmented legs, wherein the segmented legs can each be made from two or more extended leg segments. |
| US07874093B2 |
Wind driven bird attractor
Methods and apparatus are provided for attracting animals. In one aspect, there is provided a wind driven device, such as a decoy for animals, such as waterfowl, birds, humans, and the like. The device may include a support pole; a hanging rod coupled to the support pole; and a blade coupled to a swivel mechanism. The swivel mechanism is further coupled to the hanging rod. The blade is attached to the swivel mechanism and shaped to move to attract one or more animals when the blade moves in response to wind. Related apparatus and methods are also described. |
| US07874090B2 |
Free standing modular display
At least two upright subassemblies, each with a base, radial positioning members; an outer tubular member, an inner tubular member slidably received in the outer tubular member; a plunger for selective engagement with aperture(s) in the outer tubular member, upper and lower horizontal bars secured to the radial positioning members, and a flexible display secured to each set of upper and lower horizontal bars, the radial positioning members for selective positioning between selected convex, concave, in-line and right angle positions. |
| US07874086B2 |
Lock assembly for securing a wear member to earth-working equipment
A locking assembly for retaining a wear member to excavating equipment has a locking element that is received into an opening in the assembly and is movable about a pivot axis in the opening between a hold position and a release position. The locking element has an outer edge that is generally opposite the pivot axis that opposes a base surface of the opening when the locking element is in the hold position. The outer edge is configured to pull away from the base surface when the locking element is rotated from the hold position toward the release position. |
| US07874083B1 |
Sole wear protection system
A sole wear protection system for minimizing wear to a sole of a shoe includes a shoe being worn on a foot. The shoe includes an upper positioned over the foot when the shoe is being worn. The shoe includes a sole coupled to the upper and positioned under the foot when the shoe is being worn. A plurality of sleeves extends into the sole of the shoe. Each of the sleeves includes an open bottom end. A plurality of plate assemblies is mountable to sleeves. The plate assemblies are positioned between the sole and a support surface to minimize contact between the sole and the support surface. |
| US07874079B2 |
Holding mechanism for use with an ophthalmic tracer, and method
The present invention relates to an ophthalmic holding mechanism for holding an eyeglass frame. The holding mechanism includes a base, a clamping mechanism configured for releasably securing a lens mount of an eyeglass frame, and an actuator operatively associated with the clamping mechanism for causing linear and rotational movement thereof. The clamping mechanism is moveably coupled to the base for linear and rotational movement about an axis of rotation relative to the base, wherein the clamping mechanism is rotatable about first and second spaced pivot points. The present invention also relates to a method of tracing a lens mount of an eyeglass frame. |
| US07874074B1 |
Automobile windshield removal tool
A tool for assisting a worker in removing a windshield includes a cylindrical housing having an L-shaped blade depending from a lower end thereof. The housing includes a butane-fueled heating assembly that heats the blade to a predetermined temperature so that the blade easily penetrates the adhesive surrounding a vehicle windshield. A handle is tethered to the housing with a cable that allows a worker to easily lift the windshield once the adhesive has been completely separated. |
| US07874072B2 |
Bearing support, particularly for a fan casing, and method for manufacturing thereof
A method is provided for manufacturing a bearing support, particularly for a fan casing. The method includes the step of placing a bearing assembly in correspondence to a matrix die of an injection mold. The method further includes the step of abutting a punch of the injection mold on the bearing assembly to coaxially align and axially clamp the bearing assembly. The method further includes the step of injecting a plastic material into the mold to form an assembly sheath over-injected on outer surfaces of the bearing assembly. |
| US07874070B2 |
Injection valve and method of making orifice
An injection valve has a nozzle body, a valve needle positioned in the nozzle body, an actuator for actuating the valve needle, and an orifice plate fixed at an end of the nozzle body. The orifice plate has a valve seat for cooperating with the valve needle and an orifice for injecting a fluid. The orifice plate is provided with a projection having a convex-curved surface on an orifice outlet side of the orifice plate. A flat surface portion is formed in the area of the convex-curved surface, and the outlet of the orifice is located in the flat surface portion. |
| US07874067B1 |
Manufacturing method for single chip COB USB devices with optional embedded LED
According to certain embodiments of the invention, a single chip COB USB manufacturing is using chip-on-board (COB) processes on a PCB panel with multiple individual USB PCB substrates. This single chip COB USB is laid out in an array of N×M matrixes. The advantages of this method are: 1) use molding over PCBA, versus conventional of using SMT process to mount all necessary component on substrate to form PCBA; 2) simpler rectangular structure to fit any external decorative shell package for added value; and 3) package is moisture resistance if not water proof. |
| US07874065B2 |
Process for making a multilayer circuit board
A process for making a multi-layered circuit board having electrical current traces includes providing a substrate having a 1st layer of conductive material to form a ground plane, plurality of metallic 1st traces on a 2nd side of the substrate having widths of approximately 25 microns or less, developing 1st ribs of photoresist forming 1st walls rising above upper surface of an adjacent seed layer trace, depositing 1st conductive signal traces having a thickness exceeding 25 microns into channels and over seed layer traces and stripping the ribs to leave 1st conductive traces having a height-to-transverse ratio exceeding 1. |
| US07874063B2 |
Thin film magnetic head integrated structure
A thin film magnetic head integrated structure is provided. A plurality of thin film magnetic head bars include a plurality of thin film magnetic head precursors, a plurality of RLG sensors for read head core, and a plurality of RLG sensors for write head core, the read head core including a magnetoresistive element that performs a read process and the write head core including a magnetic pole layer that performs a write process. |
| US07874062B2 |
Methods for defining the track width of magnetic head having a flat sensor profile
A method of making a magnetic head according to one embodiment comprises forming a shield layer having first and second recesses in first and second end regions which surround a central region; depositing first and second lead layers in the first and the second recesses; and forming a read sensor in the central region such that a first edge of the read sensor is positioned above an edge of the first lead layer and a second edge of the read sensor is positioned above an edge of the second lead layer. |
| US07874061B2 |
Manufacturing method of a yoke of rotary electric machine
A yoke is produced by rolling up Zn—Al—Mg platinized steel plate of corrosion-resistance treatment where both ends thereof are tightly mated. On the outer peripheral surface of the yoke, plural linear grooves extending in the axis direction of the yoke are formed at a constant interval in the rolling step. Because the steel plate of corrosion-resistance treatment is prepared before initiating the rolling step, it is not necessary to perform coating and electroplating after making a cylindrical shaped yoke, namely, not necessary to perform any coating and electroplating after making the yoke, and the grooves are not filled with reaction products. This increases the radiation capability of the yoke because of increase of the entire surface area of the yoke. The Zn—Al—Mg platinized steel has a silver color and hardly absorbs radiant heat from an engine of a vehicle, and suppresses the increasing of the yoke temperature. |
| US07874058B2 |
Automotive body transfer method and transfer system
An automotive body transfer method and a transfer system is operable to transfer a vehicle body between a transfer mechanism and a stationary assembly station in an automobile production process. In the method and system hereof, one longitudinal half of each of front and rear pairs of left and right jack-up brackets, formed in lower parts of left and right side sills of the body, is supported by the transfer mechanism, and the other longitudinal half of each of the jack-up brackets is supported by the stationary assembly station, thereby enabling the shape and structure of the transfer mechanism and the stationary assembly station to be simplified. |
| US07874057B1 |
Method for performing vehicle maintenance and repair
A wheel trolley assembly that enables easier and more efficient tire rotation is provided. Various service stations, one of which includes the wheel trolley assembly, are arranged sequentially one after the other by means of a series of conveyor means, each positioned in a manner which allows them to rotate independently of one another, while at the same time facilitating the transfer of vehicles from one station to the next. The wheel trolley assembly and series of independently-moving conveyors greatly increase the efficiency and speed of vehicle service, thereby increasing the volume of vehicles which can be serviced as well as customer satisfaction levels. |
| US07874053B2 |
Door converter assembly for storage containers
An assembly of a frame and doors with a lifting device to position the assembly in an open end of a storage container for conversion to access from opposing ends, the frame including side plates and end plates that abut respective side walls and end edges of end of the storage container from which an end panel is removed, and the lifting device attached to the assembly to hold the assembly in the end while rigidly connecting the assembly to the storage container. A method of converting a storage container for dual opposing access is disclosed. |
| US07874051B2 |
Extractor tool for an ultrasonic flow meter
An extractor tool for an ultrasonic flow meter is disclosed. Some system embodiments comprise a bracket configured to couple to a spoolpiece of an ultrasonic flow meter and a tube inserted through and coupled to the bracket. The tube is configured to seal to the spoolpiece and permit a transducer to be selectively installed and removed therethrough. |
| US07874050B2 |
Synthetic biometric article and method for use of same
A synthetic biometric article for use in a cremation process is disclosed. The synthetic biometric article comprises a body, which is to be placed with a deceased individual, including a cremation compatible material that is suitable for mechanical pulverization. At least one synthetic biometric is integrated into the cremation compatible material in order to provide for continuous positive identification of the deceased individual during the cremation process. |
| US07874049B2 |
Buckle
Disclosed is a buckle attached to a belt or a strap which is connected to a rucksack, a bag, clothing, and a helmet, etc. so as to connect the belt or the strap. The buckle includes: a male member including a body and first latching means; and a female member which includes a body and second latching means rotatably coupled to the body so as to latch on the first latching means, for removably engaging with the male member. The buckle constructed as described above has a simple structure. Thus, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost of the buckle. Furthermore, there is an advantage in that the second latching means of the female member may be softly pushed, so as to easily release the male member from the female member. |
| US07874045B2 |
Hinge device
Provided is a hinge device for connecting one member and another member so that the hinge device allows opening and closing, including: a movable shaft; a first bracket non-rotatably fixed to the movable shaft and fixed to the one member; a second bracket rotatably and axially movably installed on the movable shaft and fixed to the other member; and a plate spring member formed in a curved configuration, having at a top of the curved configuration of the plate spring member a projection whose surface in contact with the second bracket is flat, and non-rotatably and axially movably installed on the movable shaft, in which the second bracket and the plate spring member are pressed against and held in contact with each other and make relative rotation. |
| US07874044B1 |
Leverage-type hinge and portable electronic device
A leverage-type hinge is mounted in a portable electronic device with a base, a cover and a driven panel. The cover and the driven panel are connected pivotally to the base. The leverage-type hinge has an actuating sleeve and a leverage bracket. The actuating sleeve is rotated with the cover and has an actuating protrusion. The leverage bracket is mounted pivotally on the base and has a free end abutting the driven panel. When the cover is opened relative to the base, the actuating protrusion presses a receiving end of the leverage bracket to pivot the leverage bracket. Then the free end of the leverage bracket pushes the driven panel to tilt. Therefore, the driven panel is tilted while the cover is opened to facilitate utilization of elements on the driven panel. |
| US07874042B2 |
Spring hinge for spectacles
A spring hinge for spectacles is described having a central hinge lobe (4) guided so it is displaceable in a bow-side housing (1) in the bow longitudinal direction and having a U-shaped sliding part (3) projecting from the hinge lobe (4) in the displacement direction and engaging in a housing recess (2), which receives a coiled spring (10) between its two legs (7), which is supported at one end on the web (6) connecting the two legs (7) of the U-shaped sliding part (3) and at the other end on a buttress (11), which is held removably in the housing (1) by a rotational adjustment coaxial to the coiled spring (10), the hinge lobe (4) having a through opening (17) running coaxially to the coiled spring (10). To allow a narrow construction for the spring hinge, it is suggested that the buttress (11) inserted transversely to the displacement direction between the legs (7) of the sliding part (3) have a greater diameter than the through opening (17) provided in the hinge lobe (4) for the insertion of a tool for the rotational adjustment of the buttress (11). |
| US07874041B2 |
Suction tube for a vacuum cleaner
A suction hose for vacuum cleaner includes a tubular inner part, a jacket part and a locking device. The inner part is variable in length and includes a hose wall having a coil spring integrated therein, the coil spring being configured to automatically return the inner part from an extended position to a shortened position. The jacket part is configured to completely receive the inner part when the inner part is in the shortened position, the jacket part including a tubular shape. The locking device is configured to fix the inner part, in the shortened position, in the jacket part. The locking device includes a tubular member configured to surround the inner part, the tubular member including a first part of a first snap-fit device configured to cooperate with the jacket part so as to connect the tubular member and the jacket part. |
| US07874040B2 |
Cyclonic separating apparatus
A cyclonic separating apparatus includes a cyclonic separator for separating dirt and dust from an airflow, an inlet to the cyclonic separator and a shroud comprising a wall having a multiplicity of through-holes forming an outlet from the cyclonic separator. The apparatus also includes a plurality of separate passageways provided immediately downstream of the through-holes. By providing this arrangement, the separate passageways can be located around other parts of the cyclonic separating apparatus inwardly of the shroud, allowing for better packaging of the components of the cyclonic separating apparatus. The shroud may be reduced in size because some of the space previously required for a single, large passageway can be used for other components of the cyclonic separating apparatus such a collector or a cyclone. The reduction in size of the shroud in turn allows for the cyclonic separating apparatus to be more compact. |
| US07874037B2 |
Wiper system
A wiper system includes a motor bracket to which a wiper motor is fixed, and the motor bracket is fixed to a body with a rubber pad therebetween. A mounting leg made of a hard material extends from a first pivot holder that supports a first pivot shaft, and is directly fixed to the body. Mounting legs made of a hard material extend from a second pivot holder that supports a second pivot shaft, and are directly fixed to the body. According to the wiper system, it is possible to prevent vibration due to a wiper motor from being transferred to the body and a wiper arm from overrunning. |
| US07874036B2 |
Energy storage bridge
An energy storage bridge includes a plurality of bridge girders. The bridge girder includes a number of steel pipes and a plurality of web plates. The steel pipes are assembled either in a single row or in multiple rows in the structural depth direction to form the girder together with the web plate welded between the two halves of the pipe; or with two web plates welded to each side of the pipe. The bridge girder forms an energy storage unit between two consecutive movement joints of the bridge, and two consecutive storage units can be joined by high pressure flexible pipe to form a giant energy storage unit. |
| US07874031B2 |
Patient positioning apparatus for a magnetic resonance device
A patient positioning apparatus for a magnetic resonance device is provided. The patient positioning apparatus includes a positioning unit with a fixing side for fixing to the magnetic resonance device, a supporting frame extending horizontally starting from the fixing side and being arranged in a vertically adjustable fashion on the positioning unit, a patient plate mounted in a moveable fashion on the supporting frame, and a vertical adjusting mechanism operable to vertically adjust the supporting frame, the vertical adjusting mechanism has a first drive motor disposed on a side within the supporting frame that is remote from the fixing side. |
| US07874030B2 |
Device for transferring a cradle for use with a medical imaging equipment
Embodiments of the present invention may provide a cradle transferring device, which moves and withdraws a cradle to and from an examination table of an MRI apparatus in a PET-MRI hybrid system. The cradle transferring device includes: a cradle, on which a subject lies; a shuttle table supporting the cradle and moving and withdrawing the cradle to and from the examination table of the MRI apparatus; and a cradle receiving member provided on the examination table of the MRI apparatus. The shuttle table is provided with a transfer member for holding and transferring the cradle and a transfer member driving means for reciprocating the transfer member along the shuttle table. The cradle transferring device is further provided with a cradle locking means, which locks the cradle to the examination table after the cradle is moved to the examination table. The cradle transferring device moves the cradle to the examination table of the MRI apparatus and accurately withdraws the cradle from the examination table of the MRI apparatus after the examination in the MRI apparatus. |
| US07874029B2 |
Retractable toe tent device and method of using same
A retractable toe tent device is provided to elevate the covers at the foot of the bed so that a person may sleep comfortably without the weight of the covers on their feet, thereby preventing pain or discomfort in their toes, feet, ankles, or knees. The device is comprised of a base and a telescoping support which can be raised while in use, or lowered while not in use. |
| US07874025B2 |
Grab bar assembly for shower and the like
A grab bar assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention includes: a grab bar having a first aperture and a second aperture defined along an axis; a post which receives the grab bar; an insert which pass through the first aperture and abut the second aperture; and a fastener mounted through the post and the second aperture along the axis, the fastener receivable into the insert to retain the grab bar within the post. |
| US07874022B2 |
Protective athletic garment
A protective athletic garment includes a pair of shoulder protection plates, a pair of epaulets coupled to the shoulder protection plate, and at least one rear arch plate adapted to cover an upper lumbar region of a back of a user and wrap about each side of a user and at least one front arch plate adapted to cover at least a portion of a chest of a user and having a body portion defining a forwardly-facing first surface and a pair of relief areas extending outwardly from the first surface defining a cavity that is adapted to receive a pectoral area of a user, a lower portion that is adapted to cover an upper abdominal area of a user, and a pair of second side portions adapted to wrap about each side of a user. |
| US07877814B2 |
Content transferring apparatus, content transferring method, and computer program
A content transferring apparatus is disclosed which includes: a source ID list reception unit for receiving a source ID list from a content reproducing apparatus capable of reproducing contents furnished with source IDs included in the source ID list; a first extraction unit for extracting from either one or a plurality of transfer-destined contents a content furnished with a source ID included in the source ID list; and a content transmission unit for transmitting the content extracted by the first extraction unit to the content reproducing apparatus. |
| US07877811B2 |
Method for retransmission of use authorization information
In order to reduce the multitude of data for transmitting and converting use authorizations, which are received either encoded or non-encoded together with sound and/or picture contents in signals from optional networks, it is proposed to reduce the hierarchically structured use authorization information in the form of a tree structure before transmitting it further, such that non-occupied tree branches are detected and marked as not relevant, wherein the tree branches marked as not relevant are not included during the further transmitting of the use authorization information. |
| US07877808B2 |
Using differential information entropy to detect bugs and security flaws in computer programs
Embodiments of the present invention provide program code auditing systems and methods that detect unsafe code and possible errors, such as bugs or security flaws. In some embodiments, the concept of entropy of information is used to estimate when a section of program code may contain a flaw or bug. One or more histories may be used to calculate these entropy values. |
| US07877799B2 |
Performance of a service on a computing platform
A method of performing a service for a requestor on a computing platform includes the requestor providing to the computing platform a specification of the service to be performed, which establishes specified levels of trust for at least some of the processes in the service. The computing platform executes the service according to the specification and logs performance of at least some of the processes for which a level of trust was specified. The computing platform then provides the requestor with a log of the performance of the processes performed according to the specified levels of trust. A computing platform for carrying out services includes a physically and logically protected computing environment for providing trustworthy data to appropriate users of the computing platform. The platform further includes one or more compartments arranged to operate in a sufficiently constrained manner such that processes executed in a compartment are performed reliably. |
| US07877796B2 |
Method and apparatus for best effort propagation of security group information
A method and system for best effort propagation of security group information is disclosed. The method includes determining if a reserved group identifier is associated with a destination and, if the reserved group identifier is associated with the destination, indicating that a packet received at a network node can be sent to another network node. The packet includes destination information that identifies the destination as a destination of the packet. |
| US07877794B2 |
Relay apparatus, relay method and program therefor
A method and system for relaying communications between a communication terminal and a server. The relay apparatus receives from the communication terminal an access request for a service to be performed by the server. The access request identifies the server and the service, designates use of an inter-server encrypted communication system, specifies performing authentication of the relay apparatus, and specifies an authentication server to issue ticket information including an identification (ID) character string that identifies the relay apparatus. The relay apparatus receives the ticket information from the authentication server. The relay apparatus, encrypts the access request and transmits the encrypted access request and the ticket information to the server. The server uses the ticket information to authenticate the relay apparatus. The relay apparatus decrypts the access reply and transmits the decrypted access reply to the communication apparatus. |
| US07877783B1 |
System and method for secure communications with a remote software program
In one embodiment of the present invention, a messaging program at a remote computer can send a first message to a portal computer according to a one-way protocol such as HTTP. A portal program at the portal computer can receive the first message and determine if information should be sent to the portal computer. If so, the portal computer can generate a reply message that includes the information and send the reply message to remote computer on the same connection over which the first message was received. In this manner, the portal computer can send configuration control information and other information to the messaging program without requiring leased lines, dial-up connections or a VPN. Moreover, since the communication according to the one-way protocol was initiated at the remote computer, a firewall will allow the remote computer to receive the reply message. |
| US07877781B2 |
Enforcing universal access control in an information management system
A method and apparatus for controlling document access and application usage using centrally managed rules. The rules are stored and manipulated in a central rule database via a rule server. Policy enforcers are installed on client systems and/or on servers and perform document access and application usage control for both direct user document accesses and application usage, and application program document accesses by evaluating the rules sent to the policy enforcer. The rule server decides which rules are required by each policy enforcer. A policy enforcer can also perform obligation and remediation operations as a part of rule evaluation. Policy enforcers on client systems and servers can operate autonomously, evaluating policies that have been received, when communications have been discontinued with the rule server. |
| US07877773B2 |
Information descriptor and extended information descriptor data structures for digital television signals
According to an aspect, there is provided a digital television (DTV) data stream including program and system information protocol (PSIP) data associated with content of the DTV data stream, the PSIP data including a virtual channel table (VCT) and an event information table (EIT), the EIT comprising: a source identification field identifying a source of an associated event in a DTV data stream; an event identification field indicating an identification of the event; a start time field indicating a star time of the event; a title field indicating a title of the event; and a descriptor comprising: a descriptor tag identifying the descriptor as a genre descriptor; a descriptor length indicating a total length of the descriptor; and at least one category code for an associated event in a DTV data stream, each category code specifying genre, program type, or category information of the associated event, wherein the at least one category code specifies at least one of a set of basic categories. |
| US07877772B2 |
Information descriptor and extended information descriptor data structures for digital television signals
According to an aspect, there is provided a digital television (DTV) data stream including program and system information protocol (PSIP) data associated with content of the DTV data stream, the PSIP data including a virtual channel table (VCT) and an event information table (EIT), the EIT comprising: a source identification field identifying a source of an associated event in a DTV data stream; an event identification field indicating an identification of the event; a start time field indicating a star time of the event; a title field indicating a title of the event; and a descriptor comprising: a descriptor tag identifying the descriptor as a genre descriptor; a descriptor length indicating a total length of the descriptor; and at least one category code for an associated event in a DTV data stream, each category code specifying genre, program type, or category information of the associated event, wherein the at least one category code specifies at least one of a set of basic categories. |
| US07877771B2 |
Information descriptor and extended information descriptor data structures for digital television signals
According to an aspect, there is provided a digital television (DTV) data stream including program and system information protocol (PSIP) data associated with content of the DTV data stream, the PSIP data including a virtual channel table (VCT) and an event information table (EIT), the EIT comprising: a source identification field identifying a source of an associated event in a DTV data stream; an event identification field indicating an identification of the event; a start time field indicating a star time of the event; a title field indicating a title of the event; and a descriptor comprising: a descriptor tag identifying the descriptor as a genre descriptor; a descriptor length indicating a total length of the descriptor; and at least one category code for an associated event in a DTV data stream, each category code specifying genre, program type, or category information of the associated event, wherein the at least one category code specifies at least one of a set of basic categories. |
| US07877769B2 |
Information descriptor and extended information descriptor data structures for digital television signals
Disclosed is a type of meta data structure that provides data and/or or a link to such data that is used by an EPG generator in a DTV receiver to display visually-compelling information about an event. Such information can include: an icon associated with the broadcaster of the event and/or the source of the event; a graphic representing a rating of potentially-objectionable content in the event; a still image representative of or having a relation to the event; a video excerpt of or having a relation to the event; an advertisement related to the event, its broadcaster and/or its source; etc. |
| US07877766B1 |
Method and system of providing a non-skippable sub-advertisement stream
A method and system of providing a non-skippable sub-advertisement stream. The general idea of one embodiment in accordance with the present invention is that when a user of an electronic digital recording/play back device causes it to fast forward through or skip over a recorded television advertisement, an overlay screen corresponding to the skipped advertisement is displayed on a portion of a television screen once the user resumes watching the recorded television show in normal play back mode. As such, the user is exposed to content of the skipped advertisement while viewing the recorded television show. In this manner, the user of the electronic digital recording/play back device is unable to easily avoid viewing content corresponding to the skipped advertisement. |
| US07877764B2 |
Chucking mechanism, motor having the same, and method of manufacturing the same
A turn table of a motor includes a first cylindrical portion extending in an axial direction, a first discoid portion radially outwardly extending from the first cylindrical portion, and a second discoid portion radially outwardly extending from the second cylindrical portion. A chucking member arranged on the turn table includes a main body having a diameter substantially the same as that of a center opening of a data storage disk to be arranged on the motor. The chucking member also includes a plurality of chucking claws having radially tip ends arranged radially outside of the outer circumferential surface of the main body and a plurality of coil springs applying bias force pressing the chucking claws in the radially outer direction. A radially inner end of each of the coil springs comes in contact with and is supported by at least one of the radially inner wall of the main body and the second cylindrical portion of the turn table. |
| US07877763B2 |
Lens drive apparatus
A lens drive apparatus for use in an optical pick-up apparatus, in which a bending mirror reflects an incident light flux from a light source and an objective lens converges the reflected light flux onto an optical disc through an objective lens, the lens drive apparatus includes: a base; a holder which holds the objective lens, being capable of moving with respect to the base; a pair of coils provided to interpose the objective lens held by the holder; and a pair of magnets attached to the base to face the pair of coils, respectively. The holder includes at least one surface which faces the incident light flux from the light source, among surfaces opposing to the pair of magnets, is shifted inwardly with respect to a surface of the holder that is close to the objective lens. |
| US07877752B2 |
Method and system for efficient audio scheduling for dual-decode digital signal processor (DSP)
Methods and systems for coordinating the handling of information are disclosed herein and may include scheduling multiple processing tasks for processing multimedia data by a processor. A portion of the scheduled multiple processing tasks may be preprocessed and the preprocessed portion may be buffered within a modifiable buffer that handles overflow and underflow. A portion of the buffered preprocessed portion of the scheduled multiple processing tasks may be executed. The scheduling may utilize a non-preemptive scheduling algorithm, such as an earliest deadline first (EDF) scheduling algorithm and/or a rate monotonic (RM) scheduling algorithm. The scheduled multiple processing tasks may include at least one maximum real deadline. The preprocessed portion of the scheduled multiple processing tasks may be outputted during processing of the blocking task, if a current task of the scheduled multiple processing tasks comprises a blocking task. |
| US07877751B2 |
Maintaining level heat emission in multiprocessor by rectifying dispatch table assigned with static tasks scheduling using assigned task parameters
According to an aspect of the present invention, heat emissions of processors are level among the processors, and it is possible to suppress occurrence of stop of process due to overheating. The control IC assigns tasks to the processors, and thereafter rectifies an assignment result such that temperatures of the processors become almost level among the processors, on the basis of the temperatures of the processors obtained by temperature sensors. This structure enables level heat emissions among the processors, and suppresses occurrence of stop of process due to overheating. |
| US07877750B2 |
Scheduled job execution management
Scheduled jobs can be managed by monitoring the veracity of the data sets processed by these jobs. A multi-processing environment includes remote processing devices generating the data sets. A central processing device executes scheduled job, also known as batch processes, using the data sets. For each of the scheduled jobs, a scheduled job management device tracks the data set generated by the remote processing devices. Through tracking these data sets, the execution of the scheduled jobs may be managed. If one or more of the data sets are not the proper data for the scheduled job, the management device may thereupon control the execution of the job. Through the utilization of the management device, the execution of improper scheduled jobs may be avoided. |
| US07877749B2 |
Utilizing and maintaining data definitions during process thread traversals
A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for traversing a process tree in a digital video editing system. A process tree is loaded into a digital video-editing system. The process tree has parent nodes that are dependent on output data from child nodes. Each parent node and each child node represents a digital video processing task to be performed during a traversal of the process tree. Each parent node declares a data definition and data default values. The data definition defines a structure of the data used by that parent node. For each parent node processed, a determination is made regarding whether the data definition for the output data received from a dependent child node is compatible with the data definition declared for that parent node. If the data definition is incompatible, the parent node utilizes the data default values. |
| US07877748B2 |
Method and apparatus for timing information flow in a distributed system
A computer and software method and apparatus for distributed data processing which provides agreement between data sources (sensors) and data sinks (actuators) as to what data has been written into a shared buffer. The invention further provides methods and means for meeting data timeliness requirements. Invention employs a programming primitive which recognizes semantics so as to provide a consistent view of computation modules over prescribed time intervals, called “epochs”. Application-level control of the asynchrony and timing of information flow between various computation modules is realized. The invention has applications which include sensor fusion and network gaming. |
| US07877746B2 |
Personalized installation files
A method includes personalizing a software installation file. The personalizing includes providing the file with a unique identifier included as part of a file name associated with the file. Another method includes installing a software application from the personalized installation file, extracting the indication from the file name and using the indication to personalize the software application. |
| US07877743B2 |
Program translation method and notifying instruction inserting method
The present invention comprises: a converting step for converting a source program into a machine language program; an inserting step for inserting notifying instructions for notifying that the source program has been executed in the machine language program; and a program generating step for generating the executable program from the machine language program in which the notifying instructions are inserted. Further, in the inserting step, the notifying instructions are placed at the entry points of each basic block that constitutes the machine language program and the notifying instructions to which the same conditions as those of the conditional instruction groups are granted are placed at the entry points of conditional instruction groups provided in the machine language program. In the program generating step, identification information for identifying the notifying instructions is granted to each of the notifying instructions. According to this, the present invention enables analysis of the executed range in the program that includes the conditional instructions as well. |
| US07877741B2 |
Method and corresponding apparatus for compiling high-level languages into specific processor architectures
A method and corresponding apparatus for compiling high-level languages into specific processor architectures are provided. In this embodiment, the specific processor is encapsulated in a virtual processor interface with simple instruction set architecture, and a compiler translates application programs into corresponding assembly codes. Further, the difficulty of the compiler design is reduced. |
| US07877736B2 |
Computer language interpretation and optimization for server testing
A method, software application and computer system provides computer language interpretations and optimization for web server testing by first recording user actions associated with an instance of a user interaction with a web server. The actions are analyzed to determine a collection of actions which alter communications with the server or have side effects which alter a future communication with the server. A test program is generated from the collection of actions. The test program is used to perform one or more of functional, load, and monitoring testing of a web server. |
| US07877734B2 |
Selective profiling of program code executing in a runtime environment
An apparatus, program product and method associate a unique key with routines in an application to enable a profiler to ascertain whether to collect profile information for a routine during its execution. A key may be generated, for example, during deployment or installation of an application in an application server or other runtime environment, and subsequently associated with the routines in the application, e.g., by storing the key in the class and/or library files for the application. By doing so, each application in a runtime environment may be uniquely identified by a profiler during execution, such that profile information will only be collected for those applications for which profiling has been enabled. |
| US07877732B2 |
Efficient stress testing of a service oriented architecture based application
A method for efficiently stress testing a service oriented architecture based application. A business process flow is recorded between a client and a server. When an XML document is extracted from the recorded business process flow, an XML document file is created for the extracted XML document, an XML document descriptor file is created comprising XPath queries for data elements in the XML document file, a configuration file is created comprising user input parameters obtained from the recorded business process flow, and test input data file is created. The user input parameters in the configuration file are used to generate a test script to test the service oriented architecture based application, wherein data values from the test input data file are inserted into a template of the XML document file at locations specified by the XPath queries in the XML document descriptor file. The test script is then executed. |
| US07877728B2 |
Sequence program editing apparatus
Replacement of a signal address referred to in a sequence program is carried out by storing in advance, before-after replacement information which specifies the relationship between signal addresses before replacement and signal addresses after replacement in a format with a specifying of range. Based on the stored before-after replacement information, all the signal addresses to be replaced are searched for in the editing target sequence program or replacement target symbol information. Replacement of a searched signal address with a corresponding after-replacement signal address is executed in accordance with the before-after replacement information. |
| US07877726B2 |
Semantic system for integrating software components
A system and method for integrating databases and/or web services into a searchable ontological structure. The structure allows for free-form searching of the combined system and for the discovery of an execution path through the ontology. The discovered execution path (or paths) provides for the generation of code that integrate databases and services for the purpose of fusing information from disparate databases and Web services. |
| US07877722B2 |
Systems and methods for creating inspection recipes
Systems and methods for creating inspection recipes are provided. One computer-implemented method for creating an inspection recipe includes acquiring a first design and one or more characteristics of output of an inspection system for a wafer on which the first design is printed using a manufacturing process. The method also includes creating an inspection recipe for a second design using the first design and the one or more characteristics of the output acquired for the wafer on which the first design is printed. The first and second designs are different. The inspection recipe will be used for inspecting wafers after the second design is printed on the wafers using the manufacturing process. |
| US07877721B2 |
Methods for producing equivalent field-programmable gate arrays and structured application-specific integrated circuits
Compiler flows are provided that can produce functionally equivalent field programmable gate arrays (“FPGAs”) and structured application-specific integrated circuits (“structured ASICs”). The flows may include feeding back design transformations that are performed during either flow so that a later performance of the other flow will necessarily include the same transformations, thereby helping to ensure functional equivalence. The flows may include a comparison of intermediate results in order to prove that functional equivalence is being achieved. |
| US07877719B2 |
Fast dual-Vdd buffer insertion and buffered tree construction for power minimization
Integrated circuit apparatus and methods are described for inserting multi-Vdd buffers within an interconnection tree during routing toward minimization of power under a delay constraint. Insertion of level converters is not necessary within the routing trees of the interconnect tree despite the insertion of the multi-Vdd buffers. Techniques are described for controlling the dramatic complexity increment due to simultaneous delay and power consideration and increased buffer choices. Overhead reduction techniques are taught including: sampling based techniques, prediction based pruning techniques (PSP) and (PMP), and escape grid reduction, each of which are directed to multi-Vdd buffer insertion. The resultant integrated circuits are routed with substantial power reductions over conventional routing. |
| US07877716B2 |
Computer program products for determining stopping powers of design structures with respect to a traveling particle
A computer program product, comprising a computer readable storage device having a computer readable program code stored therein, said program code including an algorithm adapted to be executed by a computer to implement a method. First, design information of a design structure is provided including a back-end-of-line layer of an integrated circuit which includes N interconnect layers, wherein N is a positive integer. Next, each interconnect layer is divided into multiple pixels. Next, a first path of a traveling particle in a first interconnect layer of the N interconnect layers is determined. Next, M path pixels of the multiple pixels of the first interconnect layer on the first path of the traveling particle are identified, wherein M is a positive integer. Next, a first loss energy lost by the traveling particle due to its completely passing through a first pixel of the M path pixels is determined. |
| US07877714B2 |
System and method to optimize semiconductor power by integration of physical design timing and product performance measurements
A system and method is provided for optimizing semiconductor power by integration of physical design timing and product performance measurements. The method includes: establishing a timing run and identifying a sigma code for the timing run; establishing ring oscillator bins and respective code; identifying a required timing run for a second level assembly to satisfy a selected voltage bin; timing a product using the required timing run; testing a ring oscillator of the product using the timing to obtain physical design identification; recording the physical design identification and the sigma code for the timing run; and using the recorded physical design identification and the sigma code to set a voltage for the product to optimize power. |
| US07877713B2 |
Method and apparatus for substrate noise analysis using substrate tile model and tile grid
A method is provided to evaluate substrate noise propagation in an integrated circuit design, the method comprising: providing a tile definition that specifies an electrical model associated with instances of the tile; mapping a plurality of respective tile instances to respective locations of the substrate; obtaining respective waveforms indicative of digital switching induced power grid fluctuations associated with the respective identified contacts; and associating a voltage with a selected tile instance of the tile grid that is indicative of substrate noise injection due to waveforms associated with contacts encompassed by the selected tile instance. |
| US07877708B2 |
Displaying messages on handheld devices
A method of displaying messages on handheld devices. The device displays messages in a scrollable viewport of vertically arranged fields. Date separators inserted into the vertically arranged list of messages to enable the user to associate the messages with a date. The date separators have “sticky” operation, meaning that the device ensures a date separator always appears within the viewport, even when the viewport has been scrolled to the middle of a long list of messages all associated with the same date. The device may ensure that the top field of the viewport always contains a date separator associated with the message immediately below. |
| US07877704B2 |
Radio terminal
A method and terminal for displaying information on a display, where the information is provided with elements. An element is either having a continuous length presenting a length which is equal to or greater than the size of said display, or a wrapped length presenting a length which is less than the size of said display. The display is further provided with a user interface having a menu structure of items. The user interface is provided with a selectable continuous length item and a wrapped length item. The information is displayed according to the selection made in the menu structure of the user interface, in order to allow the user to toggle between continuous length and wrapped length. |
| US07877695B2 |
Tailored object
A system for managing user interface events in user interface of a client system. The system includes a service layer including a business object. The system also includes an intermediate object layer comprising an intermediate object associated with the business object, wherein the intermediate object handles user interface messages raised by the business object and retrieves data from the business object for user interface. The system further includes a service manager that provides the retrieved data from the intermediate object for display on the user interface. |
| US07877688B2 |
Data processing apparatus
A data processing apparatus generating deletion-data management information indicating a deleted portion of moving image data recorded on a recording medium, in response to an instruction to delete the portion of the moving-image data. The deletion-data management information includes a deleted item corresponding to the deleted portion of the moving image data. |
| US07877687B2 |
Persistent visual media player
An apparatus and method for presenting an embedded visual media player included in a web page in a floating mode is disclosed herein. The status of the embedded visual media player and/or the position of the embedded visual media player relative to the current viewable area of a window are monitored to initiate the floating mode. The floating mode keeps the embedded visual media player within the viewable area while the web page is scrolled. |
| US07877685B2 |
Persistent adjustable text selector
Embodiments of the present invention provide a computer interface that allows for the amount of text selected using a text selection utility to be changed after the selection has been made. A user may make an initial selection, then later change the amount or portion of text that was selected using selection handles displayed on the selection. |
| US07877683B2 |
Self-organizing report
A computer-based method for generating a report. The computer-based method includes: initializing a plurality of report parameters; determining a report editing mode based a selected report editing mode; generating a filtered list of report components based on the plurality of report parameters and the report editing mode; determining a report component based on selection from the filtered list of report components; and inserting the report component into the report at a pre-determined first position derived from a first priority of the report component. |
| US07877677B2 |
Methods and apparatus for enabling use of web content on various types of devices
A system and method for configuring web content for display on mobile communicators including receiving an operator-selected web page, selection, by an operator, of at least one cell-based element of the web page, arrangement, by an operator, of the at least one cell-based element at a desired position in a page template; and creating at least one mobile communicator adapted page by automatically placing at least one cell-based element, indicated by the template, of at least another web page, having a page structure similar to the operator-selected web page, at a desired position indicated by the template. |
| US07877675B2 |
Semiconductor memory apparatus capable of detecting error in data input and output
A semiconductor memory apparatus capable of detecting an error in data input/output includes a memory cell block including a plurality of memory cells. A data input unit receives data from outside the semiconductor memory apparatus and performs predetermined signal processing to record the received data in the memory cell block. A first global data line is connected between the data input unit and the memory cell block. A data output unit receives data from the memory cell block and performs predetermined signal processing to output the received data to the outside of the semiconductor memory apparatus. A second global data line is connected between the memory cell block and the data output unit. A multiplexer selectively outputs data from the first or second global data line in response to a control signal. An error detection code generator generates an error detection code having a plurality of bits to detect whether the data output from the multiplexer includes an error, and outputs the error detection code to the outside of the semiconductor memory apparatus. |
| US07877672B2 |
System and method for performing reed-solomon encoding
An embodiment of the present invention provides a system for implementing a Reed-Solomon computation of parity bytes of a codeword, including an accumulator and a logic circuit. The accumulator is configured to hold a plurality of bits. In an embodiment, each bit held in the accumulator initially corresponds to a bit associated with a data byte of the codeword. In another embodiment, each bit held in the accumulator initially correspond to a fixed value. The logic circuit is configured to iteratively compute a new bit for each bit held in the accumulator. After a last iteration of the computation, the bits held in the accumulator correspond to the parity bytes, wherein for each bit held in the accumulator each iteration of the computation comprises computing an exclusive-OR of a fixed subset of bits held in the accumulator. In an embodiment, the exclusive-OR is computed for the fixed subset of bits held in the accumulator and an input bit of the codeword. |
| US07877668B2 |
Memory access system
When a host system outputs a read command to a memory controller, it measures a load count of a memory area on which a read access load is imposed. Then, when the host system judges that the load count of a memory area reaches a predetermined count, it causes the memory controller to perform an error detection on the memory area. Further, when the host system finds that an error occurs in the memory area, it causes the memory controller to perform an error correction on the memory area. This can avoid or reduce unintended rewriting due to repeated readouts. |
| US07877667B2 |
Semiconductor memory
In order to correct an error in input data to thereby obtain write data, in a memory core, an EXOR element performs arithmetic processing based on an output result of an output data latch for latching read data and a result of inputted array input data, and a selector selects a result of the arithmetic processing to prepare write data. Thus, data obtained after performance of the arithmetic processing can be generated in a semiconductor memory by an operation performed immediately after data read. In addition, it is unnecessary to transfer data to an external logic circuit. Therefore, the result of the arithmetic processing can be written to a memory cell block in a subsequent clock. |
| US07877666B2 |
Tracking health of integrated circuit structures
Methods and apparatus to track the health of integrated circuit structures are described. In an embodiment, a counter may be updated when the status of a portion of a storage unit (e.g., a cache) transitions to a defective status (e.g., as determined by reference to one or more corresponding status bits). The value stored in the counter may be compared with a threshold value, e.g., to generate a signal that is indicative of whether the threshold value has been exceeded. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US07877665B2 |
Page by page ECC variation in a memory device
A data structure for a memory device is provided. The device includes an array having a plurality of rows of storage elements divided into logical units composed of a plurality of data structures. The data structure includes a data sector including user data and user attribute data. The user attribute data includes error correction coding (ECC) for the user data. The user attribute data includes information for other sectors in the logical unit. The data sector is provided in one of the plurality of rows having a higher degree of data integrity than others of said plurality of rows. |
| US07877663B2 |
Forward error correction decoders
Elements of a coding table which are error-free are found at S2. At S3, corresponding elements in an erasure information table are completed, indicating that the elements in the coding array are correct. A counter is initialized at Nmax, which is the maximum number of errors that can be corrected, at S4. At S5, the row of the erasure information table is scanned beginning from the first parity column for empty elements. Each empty parity date element of the erasure information table row is marked as incorrect at S7 For each such element, the counter is decremented at S8. At S9, the elements of the erasure information table are scanned from the first column of the application data and zero padding section for empty elements. At step S11, an empty element is marked as incorrect. At step S12, the counter is then decremented. It is determined at step S13 whether or not the counter is equal to zero. When the counter becomes is equal to zero, operation proceeds to step S14 where the decoder operates to fill remaining empty elements in the erasure information row as correct. Thus, whilst the count of incorrect elements for the row has not exceeded a maximum and whilst empty elements remain, empty elements of the erasure table row are marked as incorrect beginning with parity data elements and then continuing from the application data end. |
| US07877661B2 |
Method for encoding multiword information by wordwise interleaving and wordwise error protection with error locative clues derived from synchronizing channel bit groups and directed to target words, a method for decoding such information, a device for encoding and/or decoding such information, and a carrier provided with such information
Multiword information is encoded as based on multibit symbols disposed in relative contiguity with respect to a medium. It has wordwise interleaving, wordwise error protection code facilities and error locative clues across words of a multiword group. These originate in synchronizing channel bit groups and target data words. |
| US07877653B2 |
Address and TMS gating circuitry for TAP control circuit
The disclosure provides a novel method and apparatus for inputting addresses to devices to select the device TAP for access. Further, the disclosure provides a novel method and apparatus for inputting addresses for selecting device TAPs and for inputting commands for commanding circuitry within the device. The inputting of addresses or the inputting of addresses and commands is initiated by a control bit input on TDI that is recognized during the Run Test/Idle, Pause-DR or Pause-IR TAP states. |
| US07877647B2 |
Correcting a target address in parallel with determining whether the target address was received in error
As disclosed herein, an interface for a device adapted to couple to an interconnect may comprise decode and error check logic and a plurality of decode logic units. The decode and error check logic may receive error check bits and a target address from the interconnect and may determine whether the target address was received in error. At least one of the decode logic units also may receive the error check bits and correct the target address using the error check bits in parallel with the decode and error check logic determining whether the target address was received in error. |
| US07877641B2 |
Forming stack frame signatures
A method of forming a stack signature responsive to execution of a computer program in a digital computer according to one embodiment comprises halting execution of the computer program, tracing the program's call stack to determine a series of stack frames resulting from execution of the program, capturing a selected metric with respect to each stack frame in the series, encoding each captured metric into a corresponding symbol, and assembling the series of encoded symbols into an ordered list thereby forming a stack frame signature that reflects generally the execution of the computer program. |
| US07877634B2 |
Data collecting apparatus and gateway apparatus
This invention intends to provide a data collecting apparatus and a gateway apparatus capable of reducing the labor for setting the threshold value or condition used for a real running point, reducing the number of cases where the threshold value or condition is erroneously set and setting the threshold value or condition within a narrow range.The data collecting apparatus includes device value collecting unit 2 for collecting device values from a plurality of devices, abnormal state storage unit 3 for storing the monitored device to be monitored and the threshold value or condition by which it is determined that the monitored device is abnormal, abnormal state confirming unit 4 for comparing the device values of the plurality of devices with the threshold value or condition by which it is determined that the monitored device is abnormal, determining whether or not the device is abnormal and if abnormal, sending the information that the monitored device is abnormal to a host managing device, device feature information detecting unit for detecting the feature information from device value collected by the device value collecting unit 2 and abnormal state editing unit 8 for editing the threshold value or condition by which it is determined that the monitored device is abnormal, stored in the abnormal state storage unit 3, using the feature information detected. |
| US07877630B1 |
Trace based rollback of a speculatively updated cache
This invention includes a circuit for tracking memory operations with trace-based execution. Each trace includes a sequence of operations that includes zero or more of the memory operations. Traces execute atomically and become eligible for commitment after all the operations in the trace have executed. The memory operations being executed form a set of active memory operations that have a predefined program order among them and corresponding ordering constraints. At least some of the active memory operations access the memory in an execution order that is different from the program order. Checkpoint entries are associated with each trace. Each entry refers to a checkpoint location. Memory operation ordering entries correspond to each one of the active memory operations. Rollback requests result in overwriting the checkpoint locations associated with the selected trace as well as the checkpoint locations associated with traces that are younger than the selected trace. |
| US07877619B2 |
Power mode control method and circuitry
In some embodiments, a power up (or power mode) interface is provided whereby a chip's power up signals are encoded into multiple states to provide more functions than the number of signals used to define the states. |
| US07877618B2 |
Systems and methods for power management
Systems and methods for providing smart power management to one or more external interfaces of an information handling system that is capable of acting as a host for charging and/or otherwise powering one or more external devices via external interface/s that have both data exchange and power transfer capability, such as USB or Firewire interfaces. A host-based power source may be provided that is capable of managing power when a host information handling system is in inactive, and a user-based methodology may be implemented to selectively provide power to one or more external interfaces of a host information handling system based on user need or desire for access to external interface power, even when the host information handling system is inactive. |
| US07877615B2 |
Semiconductor devices and scrambled data transmission methods thereof
Provided are a semiconductor device and a data transmitting method thereof. The method includes transmitting data into a memory through at least one data line, scrambling the data corresponding to at least one mask data, and determining, using the at least one mask data, data integrity of the data transmitted through the at least one data line. The method may also include storing the data transmitted through the at least one data line in the memory according to a data integrity determination result. |
| US07877612B2 |
System and method for controlling user access to an electronic device
A method and system for authenticating a user to access a computer system. The method comprises communicating security information to the computer system, and providing the computer system with an implicit input. The method further comprises determining whether the security information and implicit input match corresponding information associated with the user. The method further comprises granting the user access to the computer system in the event of a satisfactory match. When authenticating the user, the method and system consider the possibility of the user being legitimate but subject to duress or force by a computer hacker. |
| US07877608B2 |
Secure inter-process communications
Inter-process communications between a first process and a second process are secured. A first process recognizes that inter-process communications must be initiated with a second process. A first computer that supports the first process submits a request to initiate inter-process communications with a second computer that supports the second process. The second computer replies to a request to initiate inter-process communications by replying to the first computer with a request for information of a digital certificate that authenticates the first process. |
| US07877607B2 |
Tamper-evident data management
A tamper-evident data management system uses public-private digital signature keys to control use of data and to ensure the fidelity of data that is stored on a customer's system for later collection by a computer vendor or that is sent to the vendor over a network. A computer system includes an application for collecting usage or metrics data from the computer system, for example. The metering application uses an application private key to digitally sign all metrics data prior to optionally storing the data in a data log file. The vendor can then use an application public key to validate the digitally signed entries. The digitally signed data entries may also be encrypted using a vendor public key prior to storage in the data log and may be decrypted using a vendor private key prior to validating the digitally signed data. The application and application private key may be stored on a smart card to discourage and detect tampering or may be stored on the computer system itself. |
| US07877604B2 |
Proof of execution using random function
A physical random function (PUF) is a function that is easy to evaluate but hard to characterize. Controlled physical random functions (CPUFs) are PUFs that can only be accessed via a security program controlled by a security algorithm that is physically bound to the PUF in an inseparable way. CPUFs enable certified execution, where a certificate is produced that proves that a specific computation was carried out on a specific processor. The invention provides an additional layer for generating a proof of execution which any third party can verify. This proof of execution is also useful to provide secure memory and secure interruptible program execution. |
| US07877603B2 |
Configuring a storage drive to communicate with encryption and key managers
Provided are a method, system, and article of manufacture for configuring a storage drive to communicate with encryption and key managers. A storage drive receives a request to access a coupled removable storage media for drive operations. The storage drive obtains encryption status for the coupled removable storage media from an encryption manager. The storage drive determines from the obtained encryption status whether to encrypt the coupled removable storage media to access. The storage drive obtains at least one key from a key manager in response to determining to encrypt with respect to the coupled removable storage media. The storage drive performs data operations using the at least one key to encrypt data. |
| US07877599B2 |
System, method and computer program product for updating the states of a firewall
The preferred instance of the present invention is a method and computer program product that specifies an array of elements to be incorporated into a firewall configuration protocol. When added to the configuration protocol, these added attributes allow the existing packet filtering mechanism to accommodate a terminal device that has moved and received a new IP address in a timely and efficient manner. |
| US07877598B2 |
Method for transmitting encrypted user data objects
A method for transmitting encrypted user data objects to a first telecommunications terminal includes the following steps: first, in a switching component of a telecommunications network, an encrypted user data object that is to be transmitted to the first telecommunications terminal is provided with a reference for acquiring the description of characteristics of the encrypted user data object; the switching component then determines a profile relating to the capacity of the first telecommunications terminal for processing a user data object; in addition, the switching component transmits a request, together with the profile that has been determined for the first telecommunications terminal, to a data provision component (in particular of the provider of the user data objects), in accordance with an address that is contained in the reference, in order to verify whether the user data object that is to be transmitted can be processed by the first telecommunications terminal; the data provision component then communicates information relating to the verification by the switching component and optionally the latter provides an encrypted user data object according to the information relating to the verification and informs the first telecommunications terminal of said provision. |
| US07877596B2 |
Method and computer product to increase accuracy of time-based software verification for sensor networks
A recursive verification protocol to reduce the time variance due to delays in the network by putting the subject node at most one hop from the verifier node provides for an efficient manner to test wireless sensor nodes. Since the software signatures are time based, recursive testing will give a much cleaner signal for positive verification of the software running on any one node in the sensor network. In this protocol, the main verifier checks its neighbor, who in turn checks its neighbor, and continuing this process until all nodes have been verified. This ensures minimum time delays for the software verification. Should a node fail the test, the software verification downstream is halted until an alternative path (one not including the failed node) is found. Utilizing techniques well known in the art, having a node tested twice, or not at all, can be avoided. |
| US07877593B2 |
Situation sensitive memory performance
The present invention presents a non-volatile memory system that adapts its performance to one or more system related situation. If a situation occurs where the memory will require more than the allotted time for completing an operation, the memory can switch from its normal operating mode to a high performance mode in order to complete the operation quickly enough. Conversely, if a situation arises where reliability could be an issue (such as partial page programming), the controller could switch to a high reliability mode. In either case, once the trigging system situation has returned to normal, the memory reverts to the normal operation. The detection of such situations can be used both for programming and data relocation operations. An exemplary embodiment is based on firmware programmable performance. |
| US07877591B2 |
Hardware abstraction for set-top box operating systems
A standardized system for developing hardware platforms and operating systems for computer systems. The system comprises: (1) a first standardized protocol for developing hardware platforms, wherein the first standardized protocol requires each hardware platform to include a bios program having: a first system for setting up a plurality of control features on the hardware platform; and a second system for collecting a standardized set of abstraction information and storing the abstraction information in a standardized format; and (2) a second standardized protocol for developing operating systems, wherein the second standardized protocol: requires each operating system to include an interface call to obtain the abstraction information in the standardized format; and requires each operating system to be operational on a target hardware platform with the abstraction information. |
| US07877590B2 |
Consistent data storage subsystem configuration replication
Consistency for replicating data storage subsystem configurations in accordance with a “golden” configuration file. A data storage subsystem comprises a blade system with a plurality of slots, the blade system configured to support a plurality of blades and a storage system, each arranged in a predetermined slot of the blade system. A management module operates the blade system to first power on the storage system, and subsequently to power on the plurality of server blades in a sequential order that matches a blade system natural boot sequence order, skipping the storage system, and the storage system is configured with the “golden” configuration file to log on the server blades in accordance with the power on sequence to logically configure the server blades in accordance with the “golden” configuration file. |
| US07877586B2 |
Branch target address cache selectively applying a delayed hit
In at least one embodiment, a processor includes at least one execution unit that executes instructions and instruction sequencing logic, coupled to the at least one execution unit, that fetches instructions from a memory system for execution by the at least one execution unit. The instruction sequencing logic including branch target address prediction circuitry that stores a branch target address prediction associating a first instruction fetch address with a branch target address to be used as a second instruction fetch address. The branch target address prediction circuitry includes delay logic that, in response to at least a tag portion of a third instruction fetch address matching the first instruction fetch address, delays access to the memory system utilizing the second instruction fetch address if no branch target address prediction was made in an immediately previous cycle of operation. |
| US07877584B2 |
Predictive processor resource management
Embodiments include a device and a method. In an embodiment, a device includes a processor having an associated hardware resource and operable to execute an instruction group. The device also includes a resource manager operable to implement a resource management policy for the hardware resource with respect to an execution of the instruction group, the resource management policy responsive to a prediction of a future performance of the hardware resource based at least in part on a historical performance of the hardware resource. |
| US07877583B2 |
Method and apparatus for assigning thread priority in a processor or the like
In a multi-threaded processor, thread priority variables are set up in memory. The actual assignment of thread priority is based on the expiration of a thread precedence counter. To further augment, the effectiveness of the thread precedence counters, starting counters are associated with each thread that serve as a multiplier for the value to be used in the thread precedence counter. The value in the starting counters are manipulated so as to prevent one thread from getting undue priority to the resources of the multi-threaded processor. |
| US07877580B2 |
Branch lookahead prefetch for microprocessors
A method of handling program instructions in a microprocessor which reduces delays associated with mispredicted branch instructions, by detecting the occurrence of a stall condition during execution of the program instructions, speculatively executing one or more pending instructions which include at least one branch instruction during the stall condition, and determining the validity of data utilized by the speculative execution. Dispatch logic determines the validity of the data by marking one or more registers of an instruction dispatch unit to indicate which results of the pending instructions are invalid. The speculative execution of instructions can occur across multiple pipeline stages of the microprocessor, and the validity of the data is tracked during their execution in the multiple pipeline stages while monitoring a dependency of the speculatively executed instructions relative to one another during their execution in the multiple pipeline stages. |
| US07877577B2 |
Information processor and instruction fetch control method
In implementing an encryption algorithm or the like in a computer, it is difficult to align timing at which an instruction is executed regardless of presence or absence of branch in a case of including a conditional branch instruction. In order to solve the problem, provided is an information processor (1), including: an instruction fetch unit (instruction fetch circuit 200) that fetches an instruction code to be executed to output the fetched instruction code; and an instruction decode unit (instruction decode circuit 300) that decodes the instruction code that is output from the instruction fetch unit, in which the instruction decode unit outputs, upon detection of the instruction code being a conditional branch instruction, a control signal to the instruction fetch unit so that fetch timing of the successive instruction code becomes identical with each other regardless of the presence or absence of the branch due to the branch condition. |
| US07877572B2 |
Data access in a processor for virtual machines
Apparatus and method are described for a data processing device. The data processor includes features suitable for executing a software virtual machine. The data processor provides an instruction set that supports object-level memory protection suitable for high speed operation. Memory control logic is provided to accommodate a configuration having relatively less random access memory (RAM) as compared to re-programmable, nonvolatile memory, and to improve access to the re-programmable, nonvolatile memory. |
| US07877570B2 |
Consolidation of matching memory pages
A method and apparatus for managing memory allocation using memory pages. A first physical memory page is compared with a second physical memory page, wherein the first physical memory page is associated with a first page table and the second physical memory page is associated with a second page table. If the second physical memory page matches the first physical memory page, the second physical memory page is deallocated, and the second page table is associated with the first physical memory page. |
| US07877569B2 |
Reduction of fragmentation in nonvolatile memory using alternate address mapping
A nonvolatile storage device can read and write data by receiving a logical address from a host. The nonvolatile storage device includes: a nonvolatile memory writing and reading data based on a physical address; a logical/physical conversion table storing information on correspondence between the logical address and the physical address for each of a plurality of data management units; a duplication table storing information on correspondence between the logical address and the physical address of data arranged over a plurality of areas in a duplicate (redundant) manner in the nonvolatile memory and having a size smaller than a size of a data management unit; and a controller controlling an operation of the nonvolatile storage device. The controller permits duplicate (redundant) writing of data having a same logical address as the data (which has been written in one data management unit in another data management unit), and the controller performs a plurality of write modes for the duplicate (redundant) writing, and selectively switches between the write modes according to situation of a logical address change designated by the host. |
| US07877568B2 |
Virtualization controller and data transfer control method
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods of controlling data transfer between a host system and a plurality of storage devices. One embodiment is directed to a virtualization controller for controlling data transfer between a host system and a plurality of storage devices. The virtualization controller comprises a plurality of first ports for connection with the plurality of storage devices each having a storage area to store data; a second port for connection with the host system; a processor; and a memory configured to store volume mapping information which correlates first identification information used by the host system to access a first storage area in one of the storage devices, with second identification information for identifying the first storage area, the correlation being used by the processor to access the first storage area. When data stored in the first storage area is transferred to a second storage area in one of the storage devices, the processor correlates the first identification information with a third identification information for identifying the second storage area and registers the first identification information and the third identification information in the volume mapping information. |
| US07877566B2 |
Simultaneous pipelined read with multiple level cache for improved system performance using flash technology
A read command protocol and a method of accessing a nonvolatile memory device having an internal cache memory. A memory device configured to accept a first and second read command, outputting a first requested data while simultaneously reading a second requested data. In addition, the memory device may be configured to send or receive a confirmation indicator. |
| US07877565B1 |
Constant versioning for multi-threaded processing
Systems and methods for using multiple versions of programmable constants within a multi-threaded processor allow a programmable constant to be changed before a program using the constants has completed execution. Processing performance may be improved since programs using different values for a programmable constant may execute simultaneously. The programmable constants are stored in a constant buffer and an entry of a constant buffer table is bound to the constant buffer. When a programmable constant is changed it is copied to an entry in a page pool and address translation for the page pool is updated to correspond to the old version (copy) of the programmable constant. An advantage is that the constant buffer stores the newest version of the programmable constant. |
| US07877564B2 |
Memory configuration and method for calibrating read/write data based on performance characteristics of the memory configuration
A method and system for storing and retrieving data using flash memory devices. One example system includes an apparatus within a flash memory configuration. The flash memory configuration includes a plurality of memory cells, where each memory cell has a charge storage capacity for use in implementing digital storage. The apparatus includes a processing arrangement configured to access each of the memory cells in a write operation and a read operation. The apparatus also includes an instruction set for instructing the processor to impose target charge levels for defining a plurality of data values for each of the memory cells. The target charge levels are programmably movable with respect to the charge storage capacity. |
| US07877557B2 |
Information processing system, information processing method and program
A technology prevents an operational mistake and reduces a labor and a time necessary for the operation in a system which a repetition of the same or similar operation steps is required of. An information processing system includes a first storage module storing step information containing parameters, a second storage module storing values of the parameters, and a module executing steps specified by the step information in a way that replaces a parameter of the step information with a value of the parameter. |
| US07877555B1 |
Power-aware RAM processing
Logical memories and other logic functions specified in designs are mapped to power-optimized implementations using physical memories and other device resources. A logical memory may be automatically mapped to numerous potential physical implementations. Power consumption is estimated for each potential physical implementation to select the physical implementation providing the best performance with respect to power consumption and any other design constraints. Potential physical implementations can suppress clock transitions via clock enable inputs when embedded memory is not accessed. Read-enable and write-enable signals can be converted to functionally equivalent clock enable signals. Clock enable signals can be created to deactivate unused memory access ports and to deactivate embedded memory blocks during don't-care conditions. Potential physical implementations can slice logical memory into two or more embedded memory blocks to minimize power consumption. |
| US07877550B2 |
Bus controller initiated write-through mechanism with hardware automatically generated clean command
A write-through cache scheme is created. A store data command is sent to a cache line of a cache array from a processing unit. It is then determined whether the address of the store data is valid, wherein the original data from the store's address has been previously loaded into the cache. A write-through command is sent to a system bus as a function of whether the address of the store data is valid. The bus controller is employed to sense the write-through command. If the write-through command is sensed, a clean command is generated by the bus controller. If the write-through command is sensed, the store data is written into the cache array, and the data is marked as modified. If the write-through command is sensed, the clean command is sent onto the system bus by the bus controller, thereby causing modified data to be written to memory. |
| US07877547B2 |
Method, system and circuit for efficiently managing a cache storage device
A system, method and circuit for efficiently managing a cache storage device. A cache storage device may include a cache management module. The cache management module may be adapted to generate a management unit and to associate the management unit with new data that is to be written into the cache. The cache management module may be further adapted to assign two or more allocation units for each management unit, to store the new data in the cache. A cache management module may include a management unit module. The management unit module may be adapted to generate management units associated with predefined global cache management functions. The cache management module may further include an allocation unit module in communication with the management unit module. The allocation unit module may be adapted to assign allocation units for storing data written into the cache. |
| US07877546B2 |
System, method, and circuit for retrieving data in data blocks into a cache memory from a mass data storage device based on a triggering event
Upon receiving a request for one or a set of data blocks associated with a given data segment, a disk cache controller may retrieve into cache the some part of the entire data segment from a disk. Each data segment on a disk may include a fixed number of data blocks, and all data segments may include the same number of data blocks. Data segments may be dynamically defined and their locations and sizes may vary from segment to segment. Data segments may be defined when data is written to the disk, or may be defined at a later point. A table associated with a cache controller may store information as to the physical location or address on a disk of the starting point and/or size of each data segment. |
| US07877544B2 |
Storing redundant segments and parity information for segmented logical volumes
Provided are a method, system, and article of manufacture, wherein a storage manager application implemented in a first computational device maintains a virtual logical volume that has a plurality of segments created by the storage manager application. At least one additional copy of at least one of the plurality of segments is maintained in at least one linear storage medium of a secondary storage. A request for data is received, at the first computational device, from a second computational device. At least one of the plurality of segments and the at least one additional copy are used to respond to the received request for data. |
| US07877541B2 |
Method and system for accessing non-volatile memory
Accessing a non-volatile memory array is described, including receiving a first data and a memory address associated with the first data, writing the first data to the non-volatile memory array at the memory address of the first data without erasing a second data stored in the non-volatile memory array at the memory address of the first data before writing the first data. |
| US07877540B2 |
Logically-addressed file storage methods
Files that are mapped to a logical address range by a host become logically fragmented prior to being sent to a memory system. Subsequently, the logically fragmented portions are reassembled when they are stored in blocks in the memory system. The host supplies information to the memory system regarding file-to-logical mapping of data prior to sending the data. The memory selects storage locations for the data based on the files to which the data belong. |
| US07877536B2 |
Scalable distributed routing scheme for PCI express switches
A Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) Express switch is provided. The PCI Express switch includes a first routing information bus connected to the first port; a second routing information bus connected to the second port; a third routing information bus connected to the third port; two routing slaves in the first port, each dedicated to listening to one of the second and the third routing information buses; two routing slaves in the second port, each dedicated to listening to one of the first and the third routing information buses; and two routing slaves in the third port, each dedicated to listening to one of the first and the second routing information buses. |
| US07877532B2 |
Communication between an accessory and a media player with multiple lingoes and lingo version information
An interface and protocol allow a media player to communicate with external accessories over a transport link. The protocol includes a core protocol functionality and a number of accessory lingoes. Examples of accessory lingoes include a microphone lingo, a simple remote lingo, a display remote lingo, an RF transmitter lingo, and an extended interface lingo. |
| US07877531B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing apparatus controlling method
Disclosed herein is an image processing apparatus including an input section, a bus, a memory interface, an output section, and a control section. |
| US07877530B2 |
Bus width negotiation
There is provided a method and apparatus for bus negotiation. One such method includes determining a configuration of a first bond pad, the first bond pad indicating whether a host is configured to communicate with a fixed data storage device or a removable data storage device. If the first bond pad indicates the host is configured to communicate with a fixed data storage device, then the method additionally includes determining the configuration of a second bond pad. The second bond pad indicates the supported bus width of the fixed data storage device. |
| US07877521B2 |
Processing apparatus and method of modifying system configuration
A virtual PCI Express device 1600 indicates the presence of a pseudo I/O device in a PCI Express initial configuration cycle to reserve a resource space for a device anticipated to be installed in the future, and when an I/O device 1400 is inserted into an unoccupied slot 1605, a virtual PCI Express device control logic 1602 notifies a downstream PCI-PCI bridge 1504 via a hot-plugging control line 1601, and the downstream PCI-PCI bridge 1504 generates an interrupt to a CPU 1100 to notify it of insertion of the I/O device 1400 in conformance with the procedure for hot plugging defined by the PCI-SIG Standards, and configuration software 1000 invoked configures the inserted I/O device 1400. |
| US07877520B2 |
Storage device and method of setting configuration information of same
Configuration information settings for a storage device are made highly reliable and facilitated. The storage device includes a service processor for setting storage device configuration information, and a terminal device connected to the service processor via a private line to send a command group, received from an operator and related to the storage device configuration information, to the service processor. The service processor also includes a device for determining approval or denial of execution of the command group prior to execution of the command group received from the terminal device. |
| US07877518B2 |
Method and apparatus for updating applications on a mobile device via device synchronization
A method and system for the delivery of updated web platform applications to a mobile electronic device upon synchronization of the mobile device with a computer. Specifically, one embodiment of the present invention discloses a method and system for dynamically creating personalized and up-to-date applications whenever a mobile electronic device is synchronized with a stand-alone computer system that is coupled to remotely located content servers or computers via a communication network, such as the Internet. Conduits act as gateways for synchronization between the mobile electronic device and the plurality of content servers or computers. These conduits coordinate the loading of the personalized and up-to-date applications onto the mobile electronic device. In one example, a user can then access up-to-date information on the applications at a more convenient time and while disconnected from the content servers or computers that provide the information. |
| US07877516B2 |
Data management system and method
A method of replicating data on a source to a destination comprising the steps of: extracting data from a source via a user interface in a source format; converting the extracted data from the source's format into a destination format; and uploading the converted data to said destination. |
| US07877511B1 |
Method and apparatus for adaptive services networking
Methods and apparatus provide an adaptive load balancer that presents a virtual data system to client computer systems. The virtual data system provides access to an aggregated set of data, such as files or web service objects, available from a plurality of server data systems respectively operating within a plurality of server computer systems. The adaptive load balancer receives a client data access transaction from a client computer system that specifies a data access operation to be performed relative to the virtual data system presented to the client computer system. The adaptive load balancer processes the client data access transaction in relation to metadata associated with the virtual data system to provide access to the file or service object within a server computer system, or to access the metadata. The adaptive load balancer can work in conjunction with other adaptive load balancers to dynamically adjust to demands for access to data by replicating and migrating data such as files or service objects as needed between the server computer systems to accommodate data access demands. |
| US07877510B2 |
Domain name resolution making IP address selections in response to connection status when multiple connections are present
Methods, configured storage media, and systems are provided for resolving domain names into IP addresses in a path-sensitive manner, namely, a manner that may consider information about a link to a server and/or information about routers and other path components. The IP addresses given in response to domain name resolution requests are selected to provide increased reliability and/or dynamic load-balancing over paths. |
| US07877506B2 |
System, method and program for encryption during routing
Computer system, method and program for routing. A nonencrypted message packet is received. In response, a payload in the message packet is read to determine if the payload contains sensitive information. If the payload contains sensitive information, the message packet is encrypted and subsequently, routed to a nonsecure communication path. If the payload does not contain sensitive information, the message packet is routed to a nonsecure communication path without encrypting the message packet. The payload can be read to determine if it contains sensitive information by determining a standard for a format of the message packet, and based on the standard, determining a location of data within the message packet and a type of the data at the location. |
| US07877504B2 |
Techniques for entry lookups
Techniques to store entries so that minimal sequential memory accesses are used to determine all relevant entries. Entries may be grouped into blocks. The order of entries within blocks may be set in a manner so that entry locations can be determined using an input value, such as a destination address. Blocks may be ordered into levels. Blocks of each level may be stored in consecutive storage locations. Accordingly, entry locations may be determined and retrieved with minimal sequential memory accesses by storing entries in a predetermined manner. |
| US07877503B2 |
Method and system for an intercept chain of custody protocol
Techniques for establishing a chain of custody for intercepted electronic information are disclosed. In one particular exemplary embodiment, the techniques may be realized as a method, comprising securely negotiating a data collection interval time and protocol support for electronic data collection between network equipment associated with a data collecting party and network equipment associated with a data receiving party, receiving a nonce at a network equipment associated with the data collecting party from network equipment associated with the data receiving party, utilizing the nonce to compute, at least in part, a hash value at network equipment associated with the data collecting party, collecting electronic data at an intercept access device at network equipment associated with the data collecting party, utilizing the nonce and the hash value to transmit the collected electronic data to network equipment associated with the data receiving party, and utilizing the hash value to establish a chain of custody between the data collecting party and the data receiving party. |
| US07877499B2 |
Data processing apparatus, data input control method thereof, information processing device, and program for implementing the method
A data processing apparatus capable of transmitting externally received data to a corresponding information processing device even in a case where a plurality of information processing devices are mountable to the data processing apparatus. First device identification information for identifying an information processing device connected to the data processing apparatus is obtained from the information processing device, and first data is received from an external apparatus. When the first device identification information and second device identification information added to the first data match each other, the first data is transmitted to the information processing device connected to the data processing apparatus. |
| US07877496B2 |
Bandwidth reservation for authenticated applications
Methods, systems, devices, and software are disclosed for providing application levels of service over a network. Embodiments of the invention maintain a list of registered applications (or application providers) that have registered with a network resources provider. Customers of the network resources provider may authenticate some or all of the registered applications, indicating a desire to allow traffic relating to those applications over their access networks. Customers may further set application levels of service with respect to those authenticated applications. Certain embodiments may manage network traffic to accord with the application levels of service. |
| US07877488B1 |
Automatic set up for editing a web site
A system and method is disclosed for automatically setting up a Web site for editing. One embodiment of such a system and method may comprise selecting a common file transfer path from a plurality of common file transfer paths, generating a test file, writing the test file to a storing computer through the file transfer server using the selected common file transfer path, requesting the test file from a Web server hosting the Web site, determining the common file transfer path is valid when the test file is received from the Web server responsive to the requesting, and selecting another common file transfer path from the plurality of common file transfer paths when the test file is not received from the Web server, wherein the method is repeated from the generating step using another common file transfer path. |
| US07877486B2 |
Auto-establishment of a voice channel of access to a session for a composite service from a visual channel of access to the session for the composite service
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method, system and computer program product for deploying and delivering composite services in an NGN network. A method for auto-establishing a voice channel of access to a session for a composite service can include establishing a visual channel of access to a session for a composite service. Responsive to detecting a user interface event in a view for the visual channel which is not related to the establishment of a new channel of access, a separate voice channel of access to the session can be auto-established for the composite service. For instance, the user interface event can include the loading of a page for the view, the receipt of focus for a form in the view, the receipt of focus for a field in a form in the view, or a keystroke or mouse event. Finally, the method can include synchronizing changes of state for the session in a view for each of the visual channel of access and the voice channel of access to the session for the composite service. |
| US07877485B2 |
Maintaining session states within virtual machine environments
Sessions states within virtual machine (VM) environments are maintained. Each VM environment hosts a guest operating system (OS) and one or more application programs running. The guest OS and the application computer programs of each VM environment constitute a session. A connection broker maintains a state machine as to states of the sessions and permits transitions among the states in response to messages, commands, and internal decisions. Different types of agents may send the messages, and the commands. The states of the sessions may include a pending state and a number of other states. The pending state is an interim state that indicates a session is being transitioned from one of the other states to another of the other states. These other states may include an offline state, an online-down state, an online-up state, a suspended state, an active state, an idle state, a disconnected state, and a failed state. |
| US07877476B2 |
Communication model, counter sign signal, method, and device
It is possible to detect communication partner state information between edge nodes without using a broker. Additional information is needed to achieve the aforementioned object. |
| US07877475B2 |
Method and system for display of activity of users
A method for display of activity of users at workstations. Each workstation is in a different geographical location. Data relating to a rate of computer input activity of at least one user at each workstation is continuously collected from each workstation, compiled in a central database, and displayed in a display in a representation of the rate of computer input activity of the at least one user at each workstation as a different musical characteristic for each workstation. Each different musical characteristic for each workstation is displayed in accordance with the combined number of input device clicks of the users in each workstation in a given period. The input device clicks are key clicks, mouse clicks, or a combination of key clicks and mouse clicks. The representation of the rate of computer input activity may alternatively comprise a visual swirl across a screen or an activity of a robot. |
| US07877474B2 |
Method for generating and administering templates for event management
A method and an apparatus are provided for automatically generating and administering templates for an event management tool, which is configured for monitoring terminal devices or components of a network. In the templates, monitoring criteria, by which the monitoring of one of the components is to be done, are defined. After the automatic generation of the template, this template is automatically tested. An administration module is also provided, which is configured for organizing and administering all the processes with respect to the templates. |
| US07877473B2 |
Mode detection of data transfer between a source device and a connected portable device
A method of exchanging content between a source device and a connected device based on a detected transfer mode. In a first mode, the source device retrieves data from a connected device and revokes the access right information corresponding to the content at the connected device. In a second mode, which is based on the detection of a group identification scheme included in the content, the content may be copied back and forth between the source device and the connected device without any revocation of access rights. |
| US07877470B2 |
Management system using scripts to transfer data among devices connected to a network
A management system including: a management apparatus including a first control unit functioning as an agent; and at least one piece of field equipment connected to the management apparatus with communication connection, the field equipment including a field equipment main body and a second control unit functioning as a first service associated with the field equipment main body. The first service provides at least one of inputting and obtaining information to the corresponding field equipment main body, and the agent performs at least one of the inputting and the obtaining of the information to the field equipment main body through the corresponding first service based on a script describing access destinations and access contents in order. |
| US07877468B2 |
Systems and methods for vertically integrated data distribution and access management
Scheduled data is received and distributed in a system, such as a DSDD system. A schedule director receives a schedule representing inventory of data available from a data source and desired times for distributing the data. The schedule director coordinates with one or more resource managers that maintain information regarding resource utilization in the system. The schedule director negotiates with the resource managers to reserve resources in the system for receiving the scheduled data from the data source, storing the received data, and/or preparing the received data for delivery to a user. Resources are reserved based on the schedule and the resources determined to be available. The resources are reserved to perform at least one task, independent of other resources in the system. |
| US07877465B2 |
Providing artifact and configuration cohesion across disparate portal application models
Under the present invention, a client-based editor is launched (e.g., from a web server or the like) within a client interface such as a browser. Upon being launched, initial configuration parameters are passed from a portal server to the editor. The present invention also provides a “communications tunnel” between the editor and the portal server in the form of a portlet interface on the web server. This is so that any characteristics expressed by the portal server (e.g., changes to the initial configuration parameters) can be pushed to the editor. Moreover, the portlet interface allows the editor to query the portal server to obtain any needed services (e.g. a spreadsheet computation). |
| US07877460B1 |
Methods and systems for facilitating the distribution, sharing, and commentary of electronically published materials
The present invention shows methods and systems for facilitating the distribution, sharing and commentary of electronically published materials such as educational textbooks. The system incorporates a common system for receiving and publishing the documents. Features of the system including layering, iconic mark-up, user notes and comments, user communication and documents/action sharing. |
| US07877458B2 |
System, computer program product and method for managing documents
A system, method and computer program product for managing documents. The system includes an image forming apparatus configured to display interactive menus so as to allow an operator of the image forming apparatus to interact with a document manager. The display interactive menus are downloaded from the document manager to the image forming apparatus based on a request by the operator. The document manager is configured to search for application services providers (ASPs) over a network and based on operator inputs. The document manager can search documents within the ASPs, retrieve documents and URLs, store documents and data. The system can provide basic and/or customized interactive menus displayed on the screen of the image forming apparatus. |
| US07877454B1 |
Electronic messaging
Methods of producing and sending an e-message include receiving addressee instructions from a sender for a single sender e-message indicating addresses of first and second intended destinations of at least portions of content of the single sender e-message; associating a first content portion of the single e-message with the first intended destination, the first content portion being intended to be received by the first intended destination; and sending the first content portion toward the first intended destination in a destination e-message such that the first content portion is accessible at the first intended destination and is inhibited from being accessed at the second intended destination. |
| US07877452B2 |
Composing, browsing, replying, forwarding e-mail
Method for composing, browsing, replying, forwarding e-mail's in an e-mail system and an e-mail client that can reduce e-mail traffic by not sending the original e-mail content in replying or forwarding e-mail's. In accordance with this invention, each e-mail has a Global-ID and each reply e-mail has a Reply-to-ID which corresponds to the Global-ID of the original e-mail, thereby the content of the original e-mail is not contained in the reply e-mail. During browsing e-mail's, the original e-mail is retrieved from repositories which stores sent and received e-mail's, and is incorporated into the browsed e-mail. |
| US07877449B2 |
Push type scanner apparatus for transmitting over a network
A push type scanner apparatus according to the present invention can transmit image data read by the push type scanner apparatus through a network to a desired personal computer only by operating the push type scanner apparatus without transmitting any operation command from the personal computer. In the push type scanner apparatus, for transmitting image data, a destination address is specified; a mail to be transmitted to the specified destination address is created; an appended file comprising the image data read by the scanner apparatus and appended to the mail is created; and the created mail and appended file are outputted to the network. |
| US07877446B2 |
Recording medium, and apparatus and method for transmitting e-mail
In a recording medium, a program for making a computer execute processing is stored. The processing includes detecting a recipient's domain name of an e-mail to be transmitted with data attached to the e-mail from a recipient's address of the e-mail, deciding a format of the data depending on the detected recipient's domain name, formatting the data into the decided format, and transmitting the data formatted into the decided format to the recipient's address as an attachment of the e-mail. |
| US07877444B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing a web page to a call member
One problem with web-based information is that it is typically presented without being personalized or tailored to fit a particular user's needs and requirements. Another problem relates to calls such as telephone calls, video calls or other multimedia calls made between two or more call members. Here it is often required to provide detailed information during the call. By storing a plurality of web pages and associating each of those web pages with information about one or more potential calls, it is possible to select one of those web pages for provision to a particular call member. For example, a user may store a web page for provision to family members, another for customers, and another for new inquiries. Information about a call is obtained and used to select an appropriate one of the stored web pages. This selected web page is then provided to the call member which is for example a wireless terminal with a web browser arranged to display the web page. The web pages may be stored on a web server or alternatively on the terminal used by the call member to take part in the call. |
| US07877437B1 |
Method and apparatus for a distributable globe graphical object
A method and system for an interactive globe, which is use to view web content and which adds a geographic context to such content. |
| US07877436B2 |
Mechanism to provide reliability through packet drop detection
A method and a data processing system for completing checkpoint processing of a distributed job with local tasks communicating with other remote tasks via a host fabric interface (HFI) and assigned HFI window. Each HFI window has a send count and a receive count, which tracks GSM messages that are sent from and received at the HFI window. When a checkpoint is initiated by a master task, each local task forwards the send count and the receive count to the master task. The master task sums the respective counts and then compares the totals to each other. When the send count total is equal to the receive count total, the tasks are permitted to continue processing. However, when the send count total is not equal to the receive count total, the master task notifies each task of the job to rollback to a previous checkpoint or kill the job execution. |
| US07877434B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for presenting forms and publishing form data
A method for presenting forms and publishing form data are provided. A software component determines if a request for a network resource containing a form has been received. The software component then determines whether a previously compiled class file should be utilized to respond to the form request. If a previously compiled class file cannot be utilized, the software component compiles a class file capable of generating the fields of the requested form. When the class file is compiled, a field engine table is consulted and field names for the fields to be placed on the requested form are retrieved. A field name specified in the field engine table is associated with the correspondence fields in a form. When a submission containing response data for the fields in the form is received, the software component saves the response data in an output table having fields named identically to the fields in the form. |
| US07877433B2 |
Infrastructure by contract
One embodiment in accordance with the invention is a method that can include generating a repository of computing system architecture designs. An offer can be generated to instantiate a host environment for an application, wherein the offer includes a plurality of options. A selection of an option of the offer can be received and utilized to identify a computing system architecture design of the repository. The computing system architecture design can be utilized to instantiate the host environment for the application. |
| US07877431B2 |
Floating point encoding systems and methods
Systems and methods for encoding floating point numbers. A system can include encoding logic which encodes invalid floating point representations as valid data. Decoding logic can be used to recognize the invalid floating point representations and map can provide the invalid floating point representations to valid data values. The decoding logic then can provide the valid data values so that operations on the valid data values can be performed in accordance with instructions received from an associated program. |
| US07877430B2 |
Method and apparatus for accelerating processing of adaptive finite impulse response filtering
Finite impulse response filtering is achieved by broadcasting to at least one compute unit an instruction having a plurality of data samples, a conditional field associated with each compute unit, and a set of operator values for operating on each data sample; providing a function of each the data sample in accordance with an associated set of operator values identified by the conditional field; and combining the functions to obtain an intermediate finite impulse response of the data samples. |
| US07877429B1 |
Movable tap finite impulse response filter
FIR filter apparatus comprises an input responsive to an input signal and an FIR filter that comprises three filter stages. A first delay circuit has a first time delay coupled between two of the three filter stages. A second delay circuit has a second time delay coupled between another two of the three filter stages. The first time delay and second time delay are different. |
| US07877425B2 |
Method for managing file using network structure, operation object display limiting program, and recording medium
A computer file management system allowing at least one of one file (F1) and/or one directory (D3) to belong to two or more directories (D1, D2). The file management system is characterized in that a file or directory specified by an operator of the computer or a program operating on the computer as an object to be operated has all the directories present on the directory path as parent directories. This system is a novel file management system capable of classifying/organizing files and directories more easily and naturally than in the conventional system without requiring additional operation. |
| US07877424B2 |
Quota enforcement with transacted file systems
Aspects of the subject matter described herein relate enforcing quotas in transactional file systems. In aspects, a filter monitors operations that may affect quota usage/charge of a file system object having a quota allotment. In doing so, the filter determines a quota value outside of any transaction for the object and a quota value associated with at least one transaction affecting the object. The filter receives a request that involves the use of additional quota. The filter then determines whether to allow or fail the request depending on whether enough quota is available to satisfy the request. |
| US07877419B2 |
Information processing apparatus and method, and program storage medium
In an information processor which records many contents or has many contents already recorded therein, and can generate an arbitrary combination of the contents, a weight is computed for each of the contents based on either data stored in a history data file or data stored in a display data file and data stored in a filtering data file, and a content is selected from the contents stored in a content file based on the weight. The selected content is related with a package corresponding to the data stored in the filtering data file. |
| US07877417B2 |
Method and apparatus for exchanging data with a database
A data exchange system for communicating with a database having a plurality of data tables includes a plurality of internal classes adapted to represent data from the data tables in a business entity format, a plurality of query structures corresponding to the plurality of data tables and a plurality of document classes referencing one or more of the plurality of query structures. The data exchange system allows an application to communicate with the database without having to know the structure of the database. Moreover the data exchange system allows the database to communicate with a document without having to know any business logic governing the creation, retrieval, update, deletion, etc., of the document. |
| US07877416B2 |
System and program product for displaying a logical structure
The present invention provides a methodology for truncating a logical structure having data matching a predefined pattern. For example, the present invention truncates a logical structure so that branches of the structure are automatically ceased at a recursive ancestor instead of at a descendant. By using the methodology of the present invention, the total number of nodes of the logical structure that will be automatically displayed for a user is represented by the formula N*N+1. Thus, when N=10, the total number of nodes that are automatically displayed for the user is 101. This quantity is far more user friendly than the 9,864,101 nodes that would be displayed when N=10 under previous approaches. |
| US07877410B2 |
System and method for providing private inference control
A system and method for providing private inference control is presented. A query count and database including records are maintained. Each record includes attributes, wherein the attributes form inference channels. A data structure is constructed including ciphertext keys, which each relate to one attribute and record. A seed for a pseudorandom function and a secret key for non-malleable encryption are chosen. A query is specified by providing indices identifying one record and attribute by homomorphic encryption. A secure function evaluation is executed upon the inference channels, seed, secret key, query count, and the set of ciphertext keys. An output is generated including the pseudorandom function and an updated set of ciphertext keys subject to sum-consistency of the set of ciphertext keys and a non-inference enabling query. A table of entries is formed by combining each attribute for each record with an output from the pseudorandom function. The entry is provided. |
| US07877408B2 |
Digital audio track set recognition system
A system and method are provided for matching a track set from a digital audio recording to metadata relating to the recording. Track duration data is obtained for the track set, and the track duration data is rounded. A search is performed for matching records in a first database based on the rounded track duration data, each resulting matching record having an identifier. Track duration data is retrieved from a second database based on the identifiers associated with the matching records. If more than one matching record is found, the track duration data retrieved from the second database is compared to the track duration data obtained for the track set to find a best matching record of in the second database. Metadata contained in the best matching record of the second database is output. |
| US07877404B2 |
Query classification based on query click logs
Methods are provided for the classification of search engine queries and associated documents based on search engine query click logs. One or more seed documents or queries are provided that contain content that is representative of a category. A query click log containing information regarding queries entered by at least one user into the search engine and documents subsequently clicked in search engine results corresponding with the queries is analyzed to determine which one or more queries resulted in clicks on the seed documents. Information is stored associating the one or more queries with the category if they resulted in clicks on the seed documents. |
| US07877403B2 |
System and method for database searching using fuzzy rules
An apparatus and method for database searching using fuzzy rules is presented. The apparatus and method may accept a word or word phrase such as a persons name and returns fuzzy rules for database searching. Applicable search rules are selected and word or word phrase equivalents are displayed to a user. The user accepts or rejects each of the word or word phrase. The word or word phrase along with the user's acceptance or rejection are stored in a sample database. The fuzzy rules are modified according to the data in the sample database. The database is filtered by training and testing portions of the database for accuracy and purging the least accurate portions. |
| US07877395B2 |
Systems and methods for identifying premium content items in a result set
The present invention is directed towards systems and methods for identifying premium content items (such as video content items) that are responsive to a query. According to one embodiment, a method for identifying one or more items of video content responsive to a given query comprises receiving a query comprising one or more terms from a given user, identifying one or more items of video content responsive to the received query and generating a result set comprising one or more links to the one or more items of video content responsive to the received query. The one or more links the result set associated with items of premium video content are identified and the one or more links in the result set associated with items of premium video content are filtered on the basis information associated with the user from which the query was received. |
| US07877394B2 |
Hierarchical table
Various example embodiments are disclosed. According to one example embodiment, a method may include storing a plurality of database records, storing a value associated with each database record, receiving a request to sort the database records, sorting the database records, and sending a response message. |
| US07877387B2 |
Systems and methods for promotional media item selection and promotional program unit generation
Disclosed are embodiments of systems and methods for selection of promotional media items and/or generation of promotional or advertising units. In one embodiment, a set of promotional media items may be dynamically identified responsive to an input set of media items. In another embodiment, a promotional program unit is generated in response to receipt of user taste data for a user or group of users. The promotional program unit is an integral unit made up of one or more media items and one or more promotional media items. |
| US07877383B2 |
Ranking and accessing definitions of terms
A method of processing information is provided. The method includes collecting text strings of definition candidates from a data source. The definition candidates are ranked based on the text strings. |
| US07877381B2 |
Progressive refinement of a federated query plan during query execution
A way for progressively refining a query execution plan during query execution in a federated data system is provided. Re-optimization constraints are placed in the query execution plan during query compilation. When a re-optimization constraint is violated during query execution, a model of the query execution plan is refined using a partially executed query to form a new query execution plan. The new query execution plan is compiled. The compiled new query execution plan is executed. |
| US07877380B2 |
System for query scheduling to maximize work sharing
A system of query scheduling to maximize work sharing. The system schedules queries to account for future queries possessing a sharability component. Included in the system are operations for assigning an incoming query to a query queue based on a sharability characteristic of the incoming query, and evaluating a priority function for each member of a plurality of query queues to identify one highest priority query queue. The priority function accounts for the probability that a future incoming query will contain the sharability characteristic common to a member of the plurality of query queues. The system of query scheduling to maximize work sharing selects a batch of queries from the highest priority query queue, and dispatches the batch to one or more query execution units. |
| US07877376B2 |
Supporting aggregate expressions in query rewrite
In one embodiment, a plurality of materialized views is stored, where each view includes a set of aggregate expressions. Storing each materialized view comprises identifying one or more disjuncts in the set of aggregate expressions, generating a set of disjunct trees that represent the set of aggregate expressions, and storing the set of disjunct trees. When a query that requests aggregated data is received, one or more disjuncts are identified in an aggregate expression specified in the query. A disjunct tree for the disjuncts in the query is generated. Based on the disjunct tree for the query and on the set of disjunct trees for each materialized view, a particular materialized view is determined from the plurality of materialized views. The query is rewritten into an equivalent query that references the particular materialized view, where the equivalent query would retrieve the requested aggregated data from the particular materialized view. |
| US07877373B2 |
Executing alternative plans for a SQL statement
Under automated alternate plan analysis, a query optimizer generates candidate execution plans. The candidate execution plans are selected as alternate execution plans for the query and execution. Output describing characteristics of each alternate execution plan and/or its execution is generated and/or compared. From this information, it may be determined, for example, whether results returned by any of the alternate execution plans are the same and whether the least cost execution plan is actually the most efficiently executed. |
| US07877370B2 |
Systems and methods for data storage and retrieval using algebraic relations composed from query language statements
Systems and methods for storing and accessing data. A query language statement may reference a plurality of data sets and a plurality of algebraic relations between the data sets may be composed from the query language statement. The algebraic relations may be used to define new data sets and to optimize access to data sets. A store of algebraic relations may be accumulated over time. Alternative collections of algebraic relations may be generated and evaluated to determine an optimized collection of algebraic relations to use in calculating and providing a requested data set. The optimization may be performed using the algebraic relations rather than retrieving underlying data sets from storage. As a result, optimization may be performed at processor speeds to minimize the amount of time required for data to be retrieved from slower storage. |
| US07877365B2 |
Document integrity verification preparation
A system and method are disclosed for rendering published documents tamper evident. Embodiments render classes of documents tamper evident with cryptographic level security or detect tampering, where such security was previously unavailable, for example, documents printed using common printers without special paper or ink. Embodiments enable proving the date of document content without the need for expensive third party archival, including documents held, since their creation, entirely in secrecy or in untrustworthy environments, such as on easily-altered, publicly-accessible internet sites. Embodiments can extend, by many years, the useful life of currently-trusted integrity verification algorithms, such as hash functions, even when applied to binary executable files. Embodiments can efficiently identify whether multiple document versions are substantially similar, even if they are not identical, thus potentially reducing storage space requirements. |
| US07877362B2 |
System and method for containerized data storage and tracking
The invention provides a method and system for automatically aggregating data items and storage media and placing each in a container, based on a storage preferences. The items in the container are generally of a similar type or classification. The container may be tracked by the system instead of individually tracking and monitoring each of the data items and storage media contained in the container. The location of the container is tracked within the storage system and at offsite storage, for administrative, reporting or other uses. |
| US07877361B2 |
Management device and method for storage device executing CDP-based recovery
A management device of a storage device that executes CDP-based recovery comprises: a data protection term acquisition section that acquires a data protection term which is a term in which recovery of a data volume is ensured from a predetermined duration for which a predetermined time is a reference point; and a control section that executes control using the data protection term. |
| US07877356B1 |
Retaining intermediate states of shared groups of objects and notification of changes to shared groups of objects
A method of sharing a group of one or more objects between a plurality of users, the method comprising providing the group of one or more objects to each user; allowing at least one user to effect a change to an object; providing each change effected by a user to the other users; and providing each user with an indication of all changes made to an object. In addition or instead, the method may comprise providing a notification to the other users of the change. The group may be a calendar and each object may be an event in the calendar. |
| US07877355B2 |
Job scheduling for automatic movement of multidimensional data between live datacubes
Techniques are described for sharing multidimensional data between software systems, such as enterprise software systems. Specifically, the techniques provide mechanisms for defining inter-application “links” for automatically moving data among different databases associated with the enterprise software systems. For example, a system may include a first database storing multidimensional data for a first software application, and a second database storing multidimensional data for a second software application. The system further includes an interface by which an administrator defines a link that specifies a source area of the first database and a target area of the second database. A link control module automatically moves multidimensional data from the source area to the target area in accordance with the link. The link control module may automatically move the multidimensional data directly between live portions of the respective databases. |
| US07877348B2 |
Layout aware calculations
A method for analyzing data from a database using an analytic database function includes receiving a selection of measured items from a user, receiving a placement item from the user, and determining a partitioning of the selection of measured items from the placement item. A placement item can be a column, a row, or an axis. A template associated with the analytic database function is adapted to define at least one partitioning relative to the placement item. The template is further adapted to define an ordering parameter for the analytic database function and optionally an aggregation level for the analytic database function. A database query is created with the partitioning. The database query can be an SQL statement. |
| US07877340B2 |
System and method for resolving gamma-ray spectra
A system for identifying radionuclide emissions is described. The system includes at least one processor for processing output signals from a radionuclide detecting device, at least one training algorithm run by the at least one processor for analyzing data derived from at least one set of known sample data from the output signals, at least one classification algorithm derived from the training algorithm for classifying unknown sample data, wherein the at least one training algorithm analyzes the at least one sample data set to derive at least one rule used by said classification algorithm for identifying at least one radionuclide emission detected by the detecting device. |
| US07877339B2 |
Method and system of creating an approximate kernel matrix to train a kernel machine
A method and system of creating an approximate kernel matrix to train a kernel machine. In one embodiment of the invention, a set of kernel machine training data is partitioned into a set of partitioned training data based on a set of partition parameters. The set of partition parameters includes one or more of, an axis-aligned grid location, or an axis-aligned grid resolution in one embodiment of the invention. A partition matrix that approximates a kernel machine kernel matrix is created from the set of partitioned training data and the partition matrix is used to train a kernel machine in one embodiment of the invention. |
| US07877333B2 |
Method and system for solving integer programming and discrete optimization problems using analog processors
Discrete optimization problem are solved using an analog optimization device such as a quantum processor. Problems are solved using an objective function and at least one constraint corresponding to the discrete optimization problems. The objective function is converted into a first set of inputs and the at least one constraint is converted into a second set of inputs for the analog optimization device. A third set of inputs is generated which are indicative of at least one penalty coefficient. A final state of the analog optimization device corresponds to at least a portion of the solution to the discrete optimization problem. |
| US07877331B2 |
Token based new digital cash protocols with combined blind digital signature and pseudonym authentication
Digital cash token protocols use a combination of blind digital signatures and pseudonym authentication with at least two pairs of public and private keys. A user is provided with one master pair of private and public keys and as many pseudonym pairs of private and public keys as desired. The resulting digital cash token based hybrid protocols combine the advantages of blind digital signature and pseudonym authentication. Blind digital signatures based on the master pair of keys are used to withdraw digital cash from the user's bank account under the user's real identity. A pseudonym pair of keys is used for converting digital cash into digital cash tokens by a digital cash issuer. All pseudonyms can be used for spending the digital cash tokens. These protocols ensure anonymity when withdrawing digital cash from the user's account under the user's real identity in addition to providing pseudonym authentication when spending digital cash tokens under a pseudonym. |
| US07877330B2 |
Method and system for managing access to media files
Access to selected content in different file formats can be managed by conducting, in a single purchase transaction, a user purchase of access rights that allow a user to acquire multiple copies of the same selected content in media files having different file formats. An authorization signal is communicated to a content provider or multiple content providers who did not conduct the purchase transaction. The authorization signal contains information that allows the content provider or the multiple content providers to authorize the user to acquire multiple copies of the same selected content in different file formats without requiring the user to conduct multiple transactions. Each copy of the selected content acquired from a content provider is in a media file having a different file format. |
| US07877324B2 |
Method and system for issuing letters of credit
A system and method for issuing letters of credit. The system and method issue a first letter of credit from a second party to a third party, and issue at least one second letter of credit from the third party to at least one fourth party. The system and method also provide a credit facility from the second party to a first party, the credit facility associated with the first and second letters of credit. The system and method also transfer credit risk from the credit facility to at least one fifth party under a participation agreement. |
| US07877318B2 |
Method for directing and executing certified trading interests
Preferred embodiments of the subject invention comprise: (a) electronically receiving securities order-related data regarding a set of securities market participants; (b) electronically storing the received order-related data regarding the set of securities market participants; (c) electronically receiving a securities order-related query (or order parameters) from a first securities market participant; (d) based on the order-related query (or order parameters) received from the first securities market participant and on the securities order-related data regarding the set of securities market participants, computing a dissemination list of securities market participants based on ranking likely contras by probability of execution; and (e) transmitting that dissemination list to an entity who has been granted the privilege of receiving such lists in exchange for being contractually bound to respect confidentiality of the dissemination list and to use the list only for the purpose of sending securities-related information to members of the list. |
| US07877309B2 |
System and method for analyzing analyst recommendations on a single stock basis
A system and method for measuring and creating a score for the performance of one or more contributor recommendations on a single stock. According to one embodiment, the score may be derived via a payoff function that depends on a variety of factors. For example, the factors may include one or more of: i) the performance of the stock; ii) the performance of a selected benchmark; iii) the recommendation of the contributor for the stock; and/or iv) other factors. According to one embodiment the payoff function may be designed such that certain desired characteristics are satisfied. |
| US07877302B2 |
Construction payment management system and method with automated electronic document generation features
A system and method for managing a construction payment process. One method embodying the invention can include generating a budget for a construction project, receiving an invoice amount from at least one participant in the construction project, generating at least one of an automated invoice and an automated sworn statement based on the invoice amount and the budget, generating at least one automated lien waiver based on at least one of the automated invoice and the automated sworn statement, and electronically executing at least one of the automated invoice, the automated sworn statement, and the at least one automated lien waiver to create at least one of a legally-binding invoice, a legally-binding sworn statement, and a legally-binding lien waiver. Another method embodying the invention can include electronically receiving a lien waiver from a participant in a construction project, electronically transmitting payment to the participant in response to receipt of the lien waiver, and releasing the lien waiver in response to the payment. |
| US07877300B2 |
System and method for processing orders involving full truck shipments
A system and method of processing an order comprises receiving an order for desired items, and calculating a collective physical parameter(s) of the items such as a total weight of the items, a total volume of the items and/or a total number of cases of the items. The calculated collective physical parameter(s) is compared with a predetermined threshold(s) reflecting a physical capacity or capability of one standard full carrier. The processing of the order is stopped if the collective physical parameter exceeds the threshold. |
| US07877296B2 |
Method and/or system for extending payment system architectures and/or legacy order processing systems to mobile commerce applications via text messaging
A text message order processing system includes: means for receiving text messages from consumers purchasing products from one or more merchants, each of the text messages being addressed to an address selected by the consumer and including an identification of the product being purchased and an identification of a device from which the text message was sent; means for parsing each text messages to extract the identification of the product and the identification of the device from the text massage; means for selecting based upon each received text message a payment instrument to be used to pay for the purchase; means for establishing payment information related to the selected payment instrument and delivery information indicating where the purchased product is to be delivered; means for generating for each received text message an order including the established payment information, delivery information and identification of the product being purchased; and, means for submitting the generated order to an order management system of the merchant. |
| US07877295B2 |
System and method for transaction automation
A system and method provides a user of a network-based commerce system drag and drop functionality that allows a user to purchase goods from a network-based transaction system through the use of links and images. |
| US07877294B2 |
Computer implemented method and system for formulating haircolor
A computer implemented method and system for determining the formula or formulas of haircoloring agents to be used in the process of coloring hair, including the steps of receiving input on the current color, state, and desired color of the hair, and using a database of haircoloring formulas to determine the coloring agents to be used, quantities of such coloring agents, application time of such coloring agents, and refreshing options that can be applied to the hair to treat and correct faded hair ends. The computer in some embodiments is portable, and includes a processor, an electronic storage means in which the haircolor formula database is stored, and software that defines the process by which the correct haircolor formula is determined. The computer software determines the best formula and process steps to be taken to achieve the desired haircolor. |
| US07877293B2 |
User context based distributed self service system for service enhanced resource delivery
Disclosed is a method and system of providing user context-based services over computer networks, using mechanisms for collecting and specifying one or more user context elements, each element representing a context associated with the current buyer state and having context attributes and attribute values associated therewith, mechanisms for collecting affective (emotive) data to inform the user context, and also an interactive graphical view to gain insight into available services for assisting in understanding available service information and making decisions on purchasing. |
| US07877292B2 |
Merchandise sales data processing apparatus
A receipt issuance facility included in a receipt printer incorporated in a merchandise sales data processing apparatus is utilized in order to print a role assigned to a key together with a frame matched with the size of the key. |
| US07877288B1 |
Manufacturer's offer redemption system
A manufacturer's offer (“coupon”) redemption system used to validate and verify a manufacturer's offer and authenticate and substantiate an offer redemption transaction while minimizing fraud. The system is a closed system in a controlled environment. The system includes a central registry where manufacturers register their offers, a manufacturer's offer redemption terminal in communication with a retailer's point-of-sale (“POS”) system, and a manufacturer's offer clearinghouse. The POS system communicates with the registry to maintain an updated database of valid offers. The POS system communicates with the manufacturer's offer redemption terminal to validate and verify offers presented for redemption. The manufacturer's offer redemption terminal includes a means to generate an encrypted identifier (“token”) which is unique to each manufacturer's offer redemption transaction. The encrypted token is attached to the purchase event transaction log, and the purchase event transaction log (including the token) is transmitted to the manufacturer's offer clearinghouse. The clearinghouse independently recreates the token based on the offer redemption record and the purchase event transaction log and authenticates the transaction as having originated under the controlled conditions imposed by the system, which includes destruction of the redeemed offer. |
| US07877283B2 |
Multi-perspective business process configuration
A computer-implemented method for configuring a business process includes configuring a solution map and deriving a pre-configured set of collaborative business scenarios based on the solution map. The pre-configured set of collaborative business scenarios is then configured and a pre-configured set of event driven process chains is derived based on the configured set of collaborative business scenarios. Finally, the pre-configured set of event driven process chains is configured. |
| US07877282B2 |
System and method for a planner
A planning system and method is disclosed. The planning system includes at least one business rule remote from at least one client, a meeting editor, and at least one tracker communicately connected to the meeting editor, wherein the at least one tracker tracks at least two data items selected from the group consisting of invitees to at least one of the at least one meetings, respondents to invitations to the meeting, at least one speaker of the meeting, at least one host of the meeting, finances of the meeting, and a venue of the meeting, and wherein the at least one tracker communicates the at least two data items with the meeting editor. |
| US07877278B1 |
Method and system for reporting fraud and claiming insurance related to network-based transactions
A method and system that allows a user to report fraud and claim insurance related to network-based transactions. A submission of a complaint is facilitated to a network-based facility in which the complaint relates to a network-based transaction. The complaint is associated with an identifier. A resolution of the complaint associated with the identifier is facilitated, and if the complaint is not resolved, an insurance claim is facilitated for the unresolved complaint. |
| US07877277B1 |
System and method for predictive modeling in disease management
A method and system for administering a disease management program to improve healthcare quality, reduce healthcare costs, and optimize delivery of healthcare services. A multi-condition risk assessment is conducted for all or a substantial portion of a population of program participants, and collected multi-condition risk assessment data are combined with claims data for predictive modeling of future healthcare risk and expense. Participants are risk-stratified into one or more classifications of future healthcare cost risk, and appropriate intervention or delivery of healthcare services is made based on the risk classification. |
| US07877276B2 |
Messaging to remote patients in a networked health-monitoring system
A networked health-monitoring system configured to collect and process patient health-related data. A plurality of remote patient sites each includes at least one display, a data management unit for collecting patient health-related data, a memory, and stored program instructions for generating health-monitoring related information on the display. A central server connects to the data management unit at each patient site. The system transmits messages for display at the patient sites and at least one of these messages is a message selected by a health care professional. |
| US07877270B2 |
Systems and methods for profiling clinic workflow
Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a clinical information workflow profiling system including a workflow engine adapted to collect profiling data for a healthcare workflow task and a profiling processor adapted to analyze the profiling data to determine an alternative configuration of the healthcare workflow task. |
| US07877265B2 |
System and method for automated customer feedback
A system and method for automated customer feedback allows for automatically collecting and analyzing customer feedback data regarding customer satisfaction and customer task completion with respect to self-service applications and live agents. When contacting a customer service center, customers provide one or more customer tasks. The customers are routed within the customer service center based on the customer task and/or one or more customer characteristics. While interacting with the customer service center, the customers are automatically asked one or more specific survey questions relating to the customers' interaction with the customer service center and the customers' satisfaction levels. The customers provide one or more survey responses to the survey questions. The survey responses are recorded and analyzed in order to modify and update the customer service center and the survey questions in order to increase customer satisfaction and increase customer task completion. |
| US07877263B2 |
Signal processing
In an audio signal processing procedure, auto-regressive (AR) modeling is used to create a residual signal from an input audio signal. The residual signal is further added to the input audio in order to produce a processed output audio signal. The AR modeling can be performed frame-by-frame or sample-by-sample employing frequency warped Burg's method. |
| US07877262B2 |
Displaying a menu of commands in a video game environment
In a gaming system, a user controls actions of characters in the game environment using speech commands. In a learning mode, available speech commands are displayed in a command menu on a display device. In a non-learning mode, the available speech commands are not displayed. A speaker-independent context-sensitive speech recognition module contains a vocabulary of available speech commands. Use of speech commands is combined with input from a controller device to control actions of a character or characters in the game environment. |
| US07877259B2 |
Prosodic speech text codes and their use in computerized speech systems
A method of, and system for, acoustically coding text for use in the synthesis of speech from the text. The method includes marking the text to be spoken with one or more graphic symbols to indicate to a speaker a desired prosody to impart to the spoken text. The markups can include grapheme-phoneme pairs each wherein a visible prosodic-indicating grapheme is employed with written text and a corresponding digital phoneme is functional in the digital domain. The invention is useful in the generation of appealing, humanized machine speech for a wide range of applications, including voice mail systems, electronically enabled appliances, automobiles, computers, robotic assistants, games and the like, in spoken books and magazines, drama and other entertainment. |
| US07877257B2 |
Method and system to parameterize dialog systems for the purpose of branding
A method and system to parameterize a spoken language dialog system, includes providing a storage area to store at least one parameter value, integrating a subcomponent with at least one module of the spoken language dialog system, and configuring the subcomponent to access the at least one parameter value and to adjust an operation or output of the module based on the at least one parameter value. |
| US07877255B2 |
Speech recognition using channel verification
A method for automatic speech recognition includes determining for an input signal a plurality scores representative of certainties that the input signal is associated with corresponding states of a speech recognition model, using the speech recognition model and the determined scores to compute an average signal, computing a difference value representative of a difference between the input signal and the average signal, and processing the input signal in accordance with the difference value. |
| US07877251B2 |
Document translation system
A document translation system is described. In various embodiments, the document translation system improves translations of text or speech (“documents”) that are performed by computing devices (“machine translations”). Upon translating a document into a target language, the system can provide a user interface containing both the original document and a translated document. The translated document can include portions that are translated automatically by a machine translation service, and other portions that have been amended or modified by users. Upon providing the translated document, the system may receive input from a user describing portions of the translated document that should be modified. These modifications may then be stored in corpora that the document translation system can employ during future requests to translate the document. When multiple modifications are stored, the system may select one of the stored modifications during translation, such as based on the document type, reputation of the user who provided the modification, and so forth. The stored corpora can then be employed to improve future machine translations. |
| US07877250B2 |
Creation of resource models
Operational resource modeling is usable to analyze application and computer system performance over a wide range of hypothetical scenarios. Operational resource modeling involves creating and training one or more resource models, and/or simulating hypothetical scenarios using resource models. |
| US07877246B2 |
System and method for performing oilfield simulation operations
The invention relates to a method of performing an oilfield operation of an oilfield having at least one wellsite, each wellsite having a wellbore penetrating a subterranean formation for extracting fluid from an underground reservoir therein. The method includes determining a time-step for simulating the reservoir, the reservoir being represented as a plurality of gridded cells and being modeled as a multi-phase system using a plurality of partial differential equations, calculating a plurality of Courant-Friedrichs-Lewy (CFL) conditions of the reservoir model corresponding to the time-step, the plurality of CFL conditions comprising a temperature CFL condition, a composition CFL condition, and a saturation CFL condition, simulating a first cell of the plurality of gridded cells with an Implicit Pressure, Explicit Saturations (IMPES) system, and simulating a second cell of the plurality of gridded cells with a Fully Implicit Method (FIM) system. |
| US07877245B1 |
Graphical functions
A method, system and computer program product to define and utilize functions graphically is provided which may be used in the simulation of finite state machines. The functions may combine mathematical, logical, non-linear and comparative operations. The graphical elements of the function may be hidden for ease of display of various portions of a model. |
| US07877242B2 |
Computer based CAE FSI models for simulating the physical behavior of diapers, diaper materials, and/or diaper machines during diaper manufacturing processes
Computer based CAE FSI models for simulating the physical behavior of diapers, and/or diaper materials, and/or diaper machines during diaper manufacturing processes. |
| US07877235B2 |
Method and system for tracking and managing various operating parameters of enterprise assets
Various embodiments of methods and systems described herein relate to tracking and/or managing any combination of energy consumption, GHG emissions, carbon credits, and/or costs associated with one or more pieces of equipment, one or more sites, or an entire enterprise. |
| US07877228B2 |
Method and system for detecting artifacts in ICU patient records by data fusion and hypothesis testing
A method for monitoring a patient employs hypothesis testing against each of several monitored signals to determine whether an artifact is present in the monitored signals. In the hypothesis testing, a null hypothesis includes an assumption that pairs of samples of highly correlated monitored signals of the several monitored signals have a predetermined distribution. The method determines that an artifact may exist in one of the monitored signals when the likelihood that the null hypothesis is true falls below a predetermined confidence value. This method can be embodied in an intelligent module for processing multiple data from one or more patients to filter out clinically significant changes in the patient from those changes caused by artifacts. |
| US07877220B2 |
Flowmeter
An electromagnetic flowmeter assembly is described in which an excitation field is set up across a flow conduit and electrodes are used to sense the electromagnetic field generated across the flow conduit as a result of interaction between the excitation field and fluid flowing along the flow conduit. The signals obtained from the electrodes are processed, together with stored calibration data, by processing circuitry to determine flow measurements and means is provided for dynamically updating the calibration data. |
| US07877219B2 |
System and method for analyzing a signal displaying a non-monotonic transition
A system for analyzing non-monotonic of signals is provided. The system is configured for receiving a signal and displaying changes of the signal using a waveform curve. The system is configured for analyzing data of the signals and the waveform curve in order to locate peak points on the waveform curve. The system is also configured for storing the signal data and data generated during the analyzing process. A related method is also provided. |
| US07877218B2 |
Signal outage detection
Disclosed are various embodiments for outage detection. In one embodiment, an outage detection system includes a signal sampler configured to sample a signal on a communications link and to determine a noise level and a signal level of the sample. An outage detection system also includes a comparator configured to compare a critical value with a sum of signal and noise of the sample. An outage detection system further includes a binomial probability analyzer configured to calculate a binomial probability of false outage of the sample and the previous N samples. |
| US07877217B2 |
Electric ultimate defects analyzer detecting all defects in PCB/MCM
A method and a system of testing electronic components assemblies, each assembly comprising a multiplicity of tracks, each connecting a multiplicity of ports. The system may enable applying heat energy upon at least one part of the at least one track; measuring energy diffusion within a predefined time interval of the heated part of the track; calculating at least one distribution energy diffusion profile associated according to the measured diffusion, where the profile represents the diffusion of energy versus time; and identifying defects in the at least one track, according to the analysis of the diffusion profile. |
| US07877213B2 |
System and methods for automated processing of multiple chemical arrays
A system and method of operating a data processing system to provide feature extraction from an image obtained from a plurality of chemical arrays is disclosed. The method includes bifurcating processing of the image by performing image processing and post-processing. The image processing includes processing parts of the image, each part corresponding to a different one of the arrays, in an automated batch process, to produce image-processed outputs that are different from the image and contain information extracted from the image. The post-processing includes processing the image-processed outputs according to different post-processing protocols with respect to different ones of those parts of the image corresponding to at least two of the arrays, to produce post-processed outputs. The method includes outputting at least one of the image-processed outputs and/or at least one of the post-processed outputs. |
| US07877203B2 |
Map information processing apparatus and storage medium of map information
In a map information processing apparatus including a processor 5 for updating map information containing map data stored in a map information storage device 3, road network data contained in the map data stored in the map information storage device has a data structure in which the road network data is composed of link strings each of which represents a series of roads in a road network as a series of links connecting nodes, the road network being represented by the nodes and the links; each of the link strings is represented by a link string record in which link records defining the links are arranged in order of the series of the links; each link constituting the link strings is provided with an invariable link identifier proper to each link; and node indication information for designating each node included in the link strings is represented by the link identifier of the link having the node as its one end. |
| US07877199B2 |
System and method for dynamically determining vehicle loading and vertical loading distance for use in a vehicle dynamic control system
A control system (18) and method for an automotive vehicle (10) includes a roll rate sensor (34) for generating a roll rate signal, a lateral acceleration sensor (32) for generating a lateral acceleration signal, a longitudinal acceleration sensor (36) for generating a longitudinal acceleration signal, and a yaw rate sensor (28) for generating a yaw rate signal. A safety device or system (44) and the sensors are coupled to a controller. The controller (26) determines an added mass and the height of the added mass on the vehicle, or a roll gradient, a roll acceleration coefficient, and/or a roll rate parameter that take into account the added mass and height from the roll rate, the lateral acceleration, the longitudinal acceleration, and the yaw rate of the vehicle, and controls the safety system in response thereto. |
| US07877198B2 |
System and method for identifying fuel savings opportunity in vehicles
A system and method of identify fuel savings opportunity in a fleet of vehicles based on a determination of fuel consumption due to modifiable use conditions is described. Modifiable use conditions, such as unauthorized usage, speeding and excessive idling, which represent opportunities for fuel savings are identified and fuel consumption based on the modifiable use conditions is determined. A user-defined statistical metric for the fleet, or a portion of the fleet, can be determined for each of the modifiable use conditions evaluated. Fuel consumption of an individual vehicle, or a group of vehicles, resulting from modifiable use conditions can be compared with a larger group of vehicle, or the fleet, to determine vehicles which correspond to a metric of the fleet. Fleet managers can use this information to modify the use conditions of individual or group of vehicles to provide fuel savings for the fleet. |
| US07877194B2 |
Diagnosis method for solenoid valve based on noise detection
A solenoid valve includes cyclically energizing and deenergizing a solenoid of the solenoid valve to repeatedly fully open and fully close the solenoid valve. When the energizing and deenergizing causes collisions of a moving member of the solenoid valve against at least one of a first and a second seat formed in a housing of the solenoid valve, noises are thus generated by the collisions and occurrence intervals of the noises are detected. Whether the solenoid valve is in normal or abnormal condition is diagnosed based on the detected occurrence intervals of the noises. |
| US07877191B2 |
Method of adapting an internal combustion engine to the quality of the fuel used
A process for controlling supplying fuel for an internal combustion engine, employed when the engine is started, including: measuring at least one characteristic value of an engine speed representative of a richness of a fuel/oxidant supply mixture for the engine, comparing the measured characteristic value with a reference value so as to determine a value of the difference between these two values, and controlling the supply unit using a control signal emitted by a control unit (3) and dependent on the difference value. The process also includes an updating step of producing an updated reference value (21), when an aging threshold of the engine is passed. |
| US07877188B2 |
Control system for internal combustion engine and control method for internal combustion engine
A control system for an internal combustion engine includes: a fuel amount detector; a smoothing calculation unit that calculates a smooth output value, which is obtained by smoothing an output value of the fuel amount detector in a temporal direction; a continuous low speed condition detection unit that detects a continuous low speed condition in which the vehicle speed remains in the low speed region continuously beyond a predetermined time period; a calculation processing unit that successively calculates a maximum value and a minimum value of the smooth output value; a reference setting unit that updates and stores a reference value in response to the engine stoppage and in accordance with the current minimum value calculated by the calculation processing unit; and a fuel supply determination unit that detects a fuel supply to the fuel tank during the continuous low speed condition. |
| US07877179B2 |
Mechanical and electrical locking coordination security strategy for an active front steer system
A system as described herein relates generally to automotive active front steering control systems having a main processor and a redundant sub-processor. The system provides a way of controlling the electrical and mechanical locking of an actuator motor in a variable gear ratio active front steering system. The method enables the sub-processor to electrically lock the active front steer actuator motor via the main processor to reduce mechanical wear or damage to the variable gear ratio system if the main processor is unable to electrically lock the actuator motor before it mechanically locks the actuator motor. The system also provides an error detecting technique that is robust to false failures and allows the active front steering system to safely transition into a fail safe mode if an error occurs. |
| US07877178B2 |
System and method for dynamically determining vehicle loading and vertical loading distance for use in a vehicle dynamic control system
A control system (18) and method for an automotive vehicle (10) includes a roll rate sensor (34) for generating a roll rate signal, a lateral acceleration sensor (32) for generating a lateral acceleration signal, a longitudinal acceleration sensor (36) for generating a longitudinal acceleration signal, and a yaw rate sensor (28) for generating a yaw rate signal. A safety device or system (44) and the sensors are coupled to a controller. The controller (26) determines an added mass and the height of the added mass on the vehicle, or a roll gradient, a roll acceleration coefficient, and/or a roll rate parameter that take into account the added mass and height from the roll rate, the lateral acceleration, the longitudinal acceleration, and the yaw rate of the vehicle, and controls the safety system in response thereto. |
| US07877176B2 |
Method and system for remote telltale reset
A system and method for telltale reset from a remote processing center. A method includes receiving a telltale indication 200, establishing communication with the remote processing center through a telematics device 202, and resetting the telltale indication from the remote processing center through the telematics device 204. |
| US07877173B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining a satellite attitude using crosslink reference signals
A method and apparatus for determining the attitude of a satellite using crosslink information is disclosed. The method and apparatus integrates data from the crosslinks with data available from other sources including, for example, star sensors, inertial sensors, and earth limb sensors to derive an accurate estimate of the satellite attitude, even in harsh nuclear environments. |
| US07877162B2 |
Method and apparatus for the manufacture of a surface on a gas turbine blade
A process and apparatus for the manufacture of adapted, fluidic surfaces on a gas turbine blade is disclosed. In an embodiment, the process includes: (a) generating a nominal milling program for the manufacture of fluidic surfaces in the region of one flow inlet edge and/or one flow outlet edge for an ideal gas turbine blade; (b) measuring the area of an actual gas turbine blade in the region of one flow inlet edge and/or one flow outlet edge thereof; (c) generating a milling program adapted to the actual gas turbine blade, where measured values determined in step (b) are used to adapt the nominal milling program generated in step (a) to the milling program for the actual gas turbine blade; and (d) manufacturing of the fluidic surfaces on the actual gas turbine blades by milling with the use of the milling program generated in step (c). |
| US07877148B2 |
Extraocular device
A medical device for use on the human eye is described. The device is placed in an extrocular location in a patient and delivers an electrical current that stimulates the retina of patients who are blind or have vision disorders. It has at least one electrode that makes contact with the scleral surface of the eye, the electrode typically being activated by an electrical stimulator. The device produces electrical pulses which pass through the electrodes on the scleral surface of the eye, to activate the retina of the eye, which causes the patient to experience improved vision, visual sensations or the prevention of deterioration of vision. By this means, sight can be restored or improved where patients have disorders of their retina or other parts of their visual system. |
| US07877145B2 |
Systems and methods for managing the longevity of an implantable medical device battery
A method for managing battery longevity of an implantable medical device (“IMD”) battery includes calculating a total IMD battery longevity value for an IMD and determining whether the total IMD battery longevity is below an optimal battery longevity value. At least one IMD parameter to be modified to improve the total IMD battery longevity value is automatically identified. The at least one automatically identified IMD parameter is adjusted to improve the total IMD battery longevity. Additionally, the improved total IMD battery longevity is displayed. |
| US07877141B1 |
PAC therapy
An exemplary method includes detecting a first atrial event, initiating a detection window after detecting the first atrial event, detecting a second atrial event during the detection window, classifying the second atrial event as a premature atrial contraction and calling for delivery of an atrial extrastimulus in response to the premature atrial contraction. Various other exemplary technologies are also disclosed. |
| US07877138B2 |
Method and apparatus for anti-tachycardia pacing and defibrillation
An implantable cardioverter/defibrillator (ICD) includes an Anti-Tachycardia Pacing Before Charge (ATP-BC) mode according to which one or more high-voltage capacitors for storing defibrillation energy are charged in preparation of delivering a defibrillation shock only if a ventricular tachycardia (VT) sustains after an ATP delivery. Fast ATP delivery and effect verification methods are applied to avoid significant delay in delivering the defibrillation shock when found necessary to terminate the VT. A switch is provided such that a user decides whether to activate the ATP-BC mode or to deliver the defibrillation shock without delivering the ATP. |
| US07877135B2 |
Image data processor, computer program product, and electronic endoscope system
An image data processor comprising an image signal receiver, a histogram generator, a gain calculator, an amplifier, and a signal feeder, is provided. The image signal receiver receives an autofluorescence image signal. The autofluorescence image signal is generated by an imaging device when the imaging device captures an autofluorescence image. The histogram generator generates a histogram of luminance in the autofluorescence image based on the autofluorescence image signal. The gain calculator calculates a gain based on the histogram and a predetermined luminance value. The amplifier amplifies the autofluorescence image signal by the gain. And then the amplifier generates an amplified autofluorescence image signal. The signal feeder outputs the amplified autofluorescence image signal to a monitor. The monitor displays an amplified autofluorescence image. |
| US07877127B2 |
Hat-based oximeter sensor
A method for use and an improved oximeter sensor substrate that is conforming to the shape of the patient's forehead. In one embodiment, the present invention is an oximeter sensor, having a substrate with a shape similar to a shape of at least a portion of a patient's forehead and including a section adapted to substantially fit over a portion of a forehead of a patient; an emitter disposed on the substrate at a position located on the section; and a detector disposed on the substrate at a distance from the emitter. In one embodiment, the substrate includes a hat that holds the emitter and the detector in a spaced-part manner against the patient's forehead. |
| US07877126B2 |
Hat-based oximeter sensor
A method for use and an improved oximeter sensor substrate that is conforming to the shape of the patient's forehead. In one embodiment, the present invention is an oximeter sensor, having a substrate with a shape similar to a shape of at least a portion of a patient's forehead and including a section adapted to substantially fit over a portion of a forehead of a patient; an emitter disposed on the substrate at a position located on the section; and a detector disposed on the substrate at a distance from the emitter. In one embodiment, the substrate includes a hat that holds the emitter and the detector in a spaced-part manner against the patient's forehead. |
| US07877124B2 |
Hands-free mobile phone
A hands-free mobile phone includes a housing and a hands-free unit. The housing defines two outer slide channels and two inner slide channels inside the corresponding outer slide channels. Each outer slide channel includes an access hole, a pivot hole, and a coupling passage communicating the access hole with the pivot hole. Two pivot portions are formed on the hands-free unit. Each pivot portion includes a pivot shaft and a plugging end formed on the pivot shaft. The plugging ends of the pivot portions are respectively inserted in the inner slide channels through the access holes of the corresponding outer slide channels and the pivot shafts thereof are respectively placed in the corresponding access holes and slid into the pivot holes of the outer slide channels through the corresponding coupling passages. Thus, the hands-free unit is pivotably secured to the housing via pivot of the pivot portions. |
| US07877123B2 |
Method and apparatus for RF signal transmission in a slider phone
A method and apparatus for internal RF signal transmission between the fixed base portion and the sliding portion of a mobile communication terminal using capacitive coupling are disclosed. The method and apparatus provide internal RF signal transmission when the sliding portion is open (SO) and when the sliding portion is closed (SC). The method for internal RF signal transmission in a mobile communication terminal includes a first capacitor plate for forming a first capacitor when the two parts are at a first position relative to each other and for forming a second capacitor when the two parts are at a second position relative to each other. |
| US07877122B2 |
Folding portable electronic device
In a folding mobile phone (folding portable electronic device), a cam mechanism (support mechanism) includes a first guide groove, a second guide groove, a first guide pin engaged into the first guide groove, a second guide pin engaged into the second guide groove, and a link member connecting the first and second guide pins. The cam mechanism supports a liquid crystal display part to allow the liquid crystal display part to turn clockwise and counterclockwise as viewed from the front, thereby allowing the liquid crystal display part to be changed between a vertical position and a horizontal position. Furthermore, the cam mechanism includes an urging mechanism urging the second guide pin to allow the liquid crystal display part to reach the vertical or horizontal position in either turning direction. |
| US07877116B2 |
Method and apparatus allowing for user-selectable acoustic equalizer settings for voice calls
A user is allowed to select an acoustic equalizer setting from among a plurality of predetermined acoustic equalizer settings. Upon receiving an indication of a selection of a given acoustic equalizer setting, a handheld telephony device processes voice call downlink audio, based on the given acoustic equalizer setting and drives an audio output device with the processed audio signal. |
| US07877113B2 |
Transmission parameter control for an antenna apparatus with selectable elements
A system and method for improved data transmission on a wireless link to a remote receiving node includes a communication device for converting packets to RF at a physical data rate, an antenna apparatus having a plurality of antenna configurations for transmitting the RF, and a processor for selecting the antenna configuration and the physical data rate based on whether the remote receiving node indicated reception of the data transmission. A plurality of antenna configurations may be mapped, as well as a plurality of physical data rates. A logical antenna and a logical data rate may be selected for transmission of a packet. The logical antenna may be changed based on whether the packet is received by a remote receiving node. |
| US07877111B2 |
Mobile device for enabling interaction with a printed email document
A mobile device for enabling interaction with a printed email document, the email document including human-readable first email information and machine-readable coded data, the mobile device including: a transceiver for sending and receiving signals via a wireless telecommunications network; sensing means for sensing at least some of the coded data while the mobile device is used to interact with the email document; processing means for decoding at least some of the sensed coded data and generating indicating data on the basis of the decoded coded data; the mobile device being programmed and configured to: (a) transmit, using the transceiver, the indicating data to a remote computer system via the wireless telecommunications network; (b) receive, using the transceiver, response data from the computer system; (c) generating, using the processing means, a layout based on the response data, the response data representing further email information; and (d) outputting the layout in a human-readable form. |
| US07877101B1 |
Locating a WLAN station using signal propagation delay
A wireless network device comprises a first RF transceiver module and a control module. The first RF transceiver module transmits a first data frame to a second RF transceiver module and receives a first acknowledgement (ACK) frame from the second RF transceiver module after a first delay period. The first RF transceiver module transmits a second data frame to the second RF transceiver module and receives the second ACK frame from the second RF transceiver module after a second delay period. The control module communicates with the first RF transceiver module and determines a total delay period based on the first and the second delay times. The control module determines an actual delay period between the first and the second RF transceiver modules based on the total delay period. |
| US07877099B2 |
Computing system with off-load processing for networking related tasks
A method is described that comprises executing a service selection method on an off load processor of a computing system to select an available network service for handling traffic sent to/from a handheld device. The execution of the service selection method is performed while a main CPU of said computing system is in a low power state. |
| US07877095B2 |
Method and device for adapting a radio network model to the conditions of a real radio network
A method of adapting a radio network model to conditions of a real radio network consists of the following steps: defining different measuring positions; carrying out measurements of variables at the different measuring positions, thereby generating measured data; providing position-dependent modelling values, using the measured data for the modelling values from the real radio network obtained at the measuring positions; setting a fine grid in a radio cell, defining small area portions, wherein one or more of the modelling values is attributed to each area portion by the radio network model. Mathematical operations are then established for modifying the modelling values of all area portions of the fine grid by adapting the modelling values to the measured data. In this manner, the mathematical operations are for each area portion and directly dependent on the measured data and the position of the respective area portions. |
| US07877092B2 |
Mobile communication terminal for service type signaling
A mobile communication terminal operatively coupled to at least two mobile radio communication systems in respectively associated mobile radio networks, each of which provides a user of the communication terminal with a number of services of different type. The user may thus effect efficient management of the services provided for him by virtue of the communication terminal being designed to receive and effect further processing of data records which are associated with one respective type of the services. |
| US07877091B2 |
Method and system for executing a container managed application on a processing device
There is provided a system for executing a container-managed application in a processing device, the system comprising a shared service container providing at least one common service for the processing device, executed in at least one process and at least one container-managed application, each comprising an application executed in a given process and accessing at least one service of the application and the at least one common service using a single service discovery API. |
| US07877086B2 |
Processing location information among multiple networks
Gathering location information from a first wireless network to determine whether to anchor a communication session in a second wireless network, a mobile node capable of communicating with both the first wireless network and the second wireless network, includes receiving location information from the first wireless network as the mobile node moves through one or more service areas of the first wireless network. It is determined whether a triggering event occurs. If the triggering event occurs, the location information is stored to determine whether to anchor a session in the second wireless network. |
| US07877083B2 |
Method and system for verifying telephone numbers across service providers
A system for verifying and updating a telephone number across service providers. After dialing a telephone number, a contact name and a timestamp in a central repository is compared with a contact name and a timestamp in a storage device. If the contact name in the central repository does not match the contact name in the storage device and the timestamp in the central repository is not more recent than the timestamp in the storage device, a determination is made as to whether the central repository indicates that a new telephone number is associated with the contact name. If a new telephone number is indicated for the contact name, the central repository is queried for the new telephone number. In response to the new telephone number being found, the dialed telephone number is routed to the new telephone number. Also, the storage device is updated with the new telephone number. |
| US07877077B2 |
Multi-band low noise amplifier and multi-band radio frequency receiver including the same
A multi-band low noise amplifier (LNA) includes multiple low noise amplifying circuits configured to selectively operate in corresponding frequency bands. The low noise amplifying circuits include corresponding amplifying units and degenerating units. The degenerating units include first inductors, which are arranged in loop patterns isolated from each other on a same layer, such that one first inductor surrounds at least one other first inductor. A current flows through a selected first inductor included in a selected low noise amplifying circuit of the low noise amplifying circuits. |
| US07877076B2 |
Error calculation circuit for mixer
An error calculation circuit used for compensating a carrier leak at an output signal of a mixer has a sign extraction unit for extracting the sign of a baseband signal which is applied to the mixer, an envelope detecting unit for performing envelope detection on the output signal of the mixer, and a signal processing unit for generating an error compensation signal to compensate the carrier leak based on the result of the sign extraction and envelope detection. The signal processing unit preferably calculates the compensation signal by using multiplication of the sign of the baseband signal by an amplitude of the envelope. |
| US07877072B2 |
System and method for adaptively controlling receiver gain switch points
Accordingly, a system and method are provided for adaptively controlling amplification in a wireless communications device receiver. The method comprises: receiving a signal with a variable signal strength; amplifying the received signal in response to the signal strength, to supply an amplified signal. More specifically, amplifying the received signal in response to signal strength includes selecting a gain state in response to a plurality of signal strength switch point. The method further comprises: measuring signal quality; measuring signal energy; and, modifying a relationship between receiver performance and amplified signal strength, in response to the measured signal quality and measured signal energy. Other aspects of the method comprise processing the amplified signal, so that a processed signal quality and processed signal energy can be measured. Then, the relationship between receiver performance and amplified signal strength is modified in response the processed signal quality and the processed signal energy. |
| US07877071B2 |
Unified STTD/CLTD dedicated pilot processing
Apparatus and method to provide unified STTD/CLTD dedicated pilot processing in a wireless receiver. The technique allows different set of parameters to be introduced to a same processing module to process STTD and CLTD diversity signals to recover a pilot signal. Introducing another set of parameters to the processing module also allows processing of a non-diversity signal to recover a pilot. The unified processing of STTD/CLTD signals is achieved by converting STTD/CLTD pilot bits as Hadamard-like bits and processing these bits along with orthogonal pilot bits which are encoded as Hadamard encoded bits. |
| US07877067B2 |
Method for selecting receiver mode of mobile terminal with two receivers
Provided is a method for selecting a receiver mode of a mobile terminal having two receivers and that can receive a signal using either or both of the two receivers depending on a channel environment. A method for selecting a receiver mode of a wireless communication terminal having at least two receivers includes computing at least one parameter for determining the receiver mode from a received signal; comparing the at least one parameter with a preset threshold; and selecting one only of a single receiver mode in which either of the two receivers is activated and a dual receiver mode in which both of the receivers are activated according to the comparison result. The method enables a receiver mode to switch between single and dual receiver modes adaptively according to a wireless environment, thus achieving stable signal reception without compromising reception sensitivity. |
| US07877064B2 |
Methods, apparatus and systems for terrestrial wireless broadcast of digital data to stationary receivers
The present invention provides methods, apparatus and systems for delivery of digital data to stationary receivers over a terrestrial wireless link at a low data rate using a new coded orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (COFDM) scheme. Digital data is encoded and modulated using coded orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (COFDM) to produce a data stream. The data stream is communicated to a stationary receiver via a terrestrial wireless link having a ratio of (i) 50% coherence bandwidth to (ii) allocated channel bandwidth of not greater than 50%. The COFDM scheme employed by the present invention overcomes the degradation of multipath fading induced by terrestrial channels, such as the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) broadcast channel. |
| US07877062B2 |
Mobile phone and ambient noise filtering method used in the mobile phone
An exemplary ambient noise filtering method includes: sampling ambient noise signals to obtain multiple groups of sampled signals; analyzing each group of the sampled signals in each sampling period to determine ambient noise frequency band(s) in each sampling period, wherein the ambient noise frequency band is a frequency band where the ambient noise distributes; determining main noise frequency band(s) by statistically analyzing all the ambient noise frequency bands, wherein the main noise frequency band is a frequency band where the ambient noise concentrates and mainly distributes; and filtering the ambient noise out of signals generated during a communication by filtering the determined main noise frequency band(s) if the main noise frequency band(s) does not have a same range as that of a speech frequency band. Related exemplary mobile phone performing the method is also provided. |
| US07877060B1 |
Fast calibration of AM/PM pre-distortion
A system and method are provided for calibrating Amplitude Modulation to Phase Modulation (AM/PM) pre-distortion in a transmitter operating according to a polar modulation scheme. In general, phase modulation is disabled during transmission of an actual polar modulation signal. As a result, the transmitter provides a radio frequency (RF) output signal having an amplitude modulation component and ideally a constant phase. However, the AM/PM distortion of the transmitter creates a phase modulation component in the RF output signal. The phase component of the RF output signal, which is the AM/PM distortion of the transmitter, is measured by test equipment. The AM/PM pre-distortion applied by the transmitter is then calibrated based on the measured AM/PM distortion such that the AM/PM distortion of the transmitter is substantially reduced. |
| US07877058B2 |
Compact low loss high frequency switch with improved linearity performance
A switch element includes a switch device having a drain, a source and a plurality of gates, and at least one additional interconnect located between the plurality of gates, the additional interconnect operative to establish a constant potential between the at least two gates. |