| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08261570B2 |
Ice supplying apparatus and refrigerator having the same
An ice supplying apparatus 100, being provided in a refrigerator 1, comprises: an ice maker unit 22, which is configured to supply ice pieces produced therein to an outside of a freezer room door; an ice storage unit 110, which is configured to store the ice pieces produced by the ice maker unit; an ice discharger unit 112, which is provided within the ice storage unit to discharge the ice pieces below; and a shrinking portion 111, which is provided in the ice storage unit and defines an interior space thereof as small as it goes down, through building up a lower surface 113, among interior surfaces defining that interior space 301 of the ice storage unit 110, for supporting the ice pieces stored therein from a lower potion thereof, by a surface inclining to a horizontal direction, wherein the ice discharger unit 112 is disposed in a lower portion of the shrinking portion 111. |
| US08261567B2 |
Heat exchanger coil with wing tube profile for a refrigerated merchandiser
A heat exchanger coil for a heat exchanger assembly that has a housing defining at least one airflow path and that is adapted to receive an airflow for heating or cooling refrigerant in the heat exchanger coil. The heat exchanger coil includes a substantially cylindrical tube for receiving the refrigerant, and at least one plate coupled to the tube and oriented so that the direction of the airflow adapted to enter the housing is non-orthogonal relative to the orientation of the plate. |
| US08261566B2 |
Refrigeration apparatus with adaptively controlled operation
Method for chilling foodstuffs contained in a chilling compartment at controllable temperature, and adapted to perform according to an operating procedure that includes continuously pulling down a temperature inside the foodstuff to be chilled, until a pre-set value (Tf) is eventually reached, provided that the temperature inside the chilling compartment is lower than a pre-set value, and the temperature at the core of the foodstuff is lower than a pre-set value. In addition, before the process is allowed to move on to a final temperature pull-down step, further conditions are defined to ensure that the temperature pull-down pattern and rate inside the foodstuff are complying with the requirements set forth by applicable standards. |
| US08261565B2 |
Cooling system for high density heat load
A cooling system for transferring heat from a heat load to an environment has a volatile working fluid. The cooling system includes first and second cooling cycles that are thermally connected to the first cooling cycle. The first cooling cycle is not a vapor compression cycle and includes a pump, an air-to-fluid heat exchanger, and a fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger. The second cooling cycle can include a chilled water system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment. Alternatively, the second cooling cycle can include a vapor compression system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment. |
| US08261564B2 |
Refrigerant recovery apparatus with variable vacuum time and method
A recovery apparatus, system and method, including a compressor to evacuate a gas or liquid from a system during a first phase and a second phase of a recovery process, and a vacuum pump to evacuate the gas or liquid during the second phase. A memory stores one or more correlation relations to determine a predetermined second variable recovery time for the second phase to evacuate the system to a second predetermined level related to a first recovery time to evacuate the vessel or system to a first predetermined level during the first phase, and a processor to determine the second variable recovery time, based on the one or more correlation relations and the first recovery time, and selectively control the compressor and the vacuum pump to evacuate the gas or liquid from the vessel or system to the first and second predetermined levels. |
| US08261561B2 |
Free-cooling capacity control for air conditioning systems
An air conditioning system having a free-cooling mode. The system includes a refrigeration circuit have a compressor, a pump, an expansion device having a variable opening, and a controller. The controller selectively operates the system in the free-cooling mode by circulating the refrigerant through the refrigeration circuit via the pump. The system includes a free-cooling capacity control sequence resident on the controller. The free-cooling capacity control sequence adjusts the cooling capacity of the system at least by adjusting the variable opening based on the temperature difference between a working fluid temperature and a set point temperature. |
| US08261559B2 |
Cryopump
A cryopump includes a radiation shield provided with a main inlet at one end thereof and a sub-inlet in a side thereof; and a cryopanel assembly cooled to a temperature lower than that of the radiation shield. The cryopanel assembly includes an upper structure having at least one cryopanel and a lower structure having at least one cryopanel. The upper and lower structures are arranged inside the radiation shield along a direction away from the main inlet. A frost accommodating space connected to the sub-inlet may be arranged between the upper and lower structures such that an amount of captured gas on an upper end cryopanel of the lower structure is greater than an amount of captured gas on a lower end cryopanel of the upper structure. |
| US08261556B2 |
Device for guiding an element in an orifice in a wall of a turbomachine combustion chamber
A device for guiding an element in an orifice in a wall of a turbomachine combustion chamber is disclosed. The device includes a coaxial ring and bushing mounted one inside the other. The bushing includes two coaxial annular parts that are fastened to each other by welding and that define a groove for guiding a rim of the ring. Welding zones between the parts of the bushing are situated away from the path of the rim of the ring when moved along a privileged transverse direction of ring movement relative to the bushing when the combustion chamber is in operation. |
| US08261552B2 |
Advanced adiabatic compressed air energy storage system
An adiabatic Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) system includes a low pressure compressor structure (14) to provide compressed air; a first heat exchanger (26) to extract heat from the compressed air exiting the low pressure compressor structure; a thermal storage device (60) to store the extracted heat during off-peak load periods; a motor-driven high pressure compressor (30) to receive compressed air cooled by the first heat exchanger, an aftercooler (34) to extract heat from the further compressed air; an air storage (36) to receive and store the further compressed air cooled by the second heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger (64) to transfer heat stored in the first thermal storage device to compressed air released from the air storage during peak periods; and a turbine structure (40) to expand the heated compressed air released from the air storage to produce power. |
| US08261551B2 |
Energy producing device
An energy producing device is provided that includes a heat exchanger section to provide a heat exchange material, and a thermal riser to receive the heat exchange material from the heat exchange section and to heat the heat exchange material based on a down-hole resource. The thermal riser may include: an outer spiral pipe to circulate the heat exchange material in a downward manner, and an inner return pipe provided inside the outer spiral pipe to receive the heat exchange material from the outer pipe after passing through the spiral pipe. |
| US08261548B2 |
Supercharged internal combustion engine and method for monitoring whether the crankcase vent has been connected
A supercharged internal combustion engine in a motor vehicle includes a venting device for the crankcase of the internal combustion engine and a compressor for supercharging the internal combustion engine. A discharge opening for discharging the crankcase gas is provided upstream of the compressor and a sensor for determining the charge pressure of the compressor is provided downstream of the compressor. The discharge opening is connected to the crankcase by a first connection for the airflow, in particular a hose connection. In order to cost-effectively monitor the venting of the crankcase of the internal combustion engine, an opening, to which the charge pressure of the compressor is applied, is provided downstream of the compressor. The first connection for the airflow includes a closing device for closing the opening to which the charge pressure is applied, wherein the closing device closes the opening if the first connection is connected to the discharge opening. |
| US08261547B2 |
Pneumatic actuator
A pneumatic actuator (100) is provided according to the invention. The actuator (100) comprises an actuator body (102) and a piston rod (108) extending from the actuator body (102). The piston rod (108) moves over an actuation span. The actuation span comprises a first stroke span that is traversed by the piston rod (108) at a first actuation speed and a second stroke span that is traversed at a second actuation speed that is substantially slower than the first actuation speed. |
| US08261545B2 |
Electric power actuator and control method for such an actuator
An electric power actuator and a method of controlling such an actuator are disclosed. The actuator (1) can include means (17, 26) for limiting the pressure difference in both chambers (9, 10) of a hydraulic jack (8) of the actuator (1) to a limit pressure which is lower than an opening pressure of a pressure relief valve (11) of the actuator (1). |
| US08261543B2 |
Working vehicle with HST
A working vehicle with an HST in which over-rotation of a hydraulic pump in the HST or the pump input shaft thereof is prevented when a main clutch is disconnected during a run. When a main clutch connection/disconnection detection means detects the disconnection state of the main clutch during a run, a control means judges whether a vehicle speed detected by a vehicle speed detection means is at least a set speed or not, and if the vehicle speed is at least the set speed, the movable swash plate of the hydraulic pump in an HST is controlled to sustain it at the current inclination angle. |
| US08261540B2 |
Particulate matter sensor and exhaust gas purification apparatus
A particulate matter sensor includes a first detection filter provided in an exhaust gas flow passage and capable of collecting particle matter. A second detection filter is provided on a downstream side of the first detection filter in the exhaust gas flow passage and capable of collecting the particle matter. A first differential pressure detection unit is configured to detect a first differential pressure between pressures of an upstream side and the downstream side of the first detection filter. A second differential pressure detection unit is configured to detect a second differential pressure between pressures of an upstream side and a downstream side of the second detection filter. A particle matter amount detection unit is configured to detect an amount of particle matter based on a detection result of the first differential pressure detection unit and a detection result of the second differential pressure detection unit. |
| US08261539B2 |
Diesel engine exhaust after-treatment operator interface algorithm
A motor vehicle operator interface and control algorithm convey diesel particulate filter regeneration status to the operator. The algorithm also allows new control over heretofore automatic regeneration, through limiting the inhibit function. The DPF after-treatment operator interface provides multiple status indications to the operator. In a preferred embodiment this is effected using a switched indicator lamp. |
| US08261532B2 |
Fuel supply control method applied to exhaust gas control apparatus for internal combustion engine and exhaust gas control apparatus to which the method is applied
In an exhaust gas control apparatus for an internal combustion engine (1) of the invention, including an exhaust gas control catalyst (8) which purifies exhaust gas released from the internal combustion engine (1), and a fuel supply valve (10) which supplies fuel to a portion upstream of the exhaust gas control catalyst (8), the fuel supply valve (10) is operated such that a cycle formed by combining a fuel supply period in which fuel is supplied from the fuel supply valve (10) and a fuel supply stopped period in which fuel is not supplied is repeatedly performed in order to control the temperature of the exhaust gas control catalyst (8) to the target temperature. The arrangement of the fuel supply period and the fuel supply stopped period is controlled such that the temperature of the exhaust gas control catalyst (8) at each of a starting point (P1) and an ending poring (P3) of each cycle is equal to the target temperature. |
| US08261527B1 |
Gas turbine engine with geared turbofan and oil thermal management system with unique heat exchanger structure
An oil supply system for a gas turbine engine has a lubricant pump delivering lubricant to an outlet line. The outlet line is split into at least a hot line and into a cool line, with the hot line directed primarily to locations associated with an engine that are not intended to receive cooler lubricant, and the cool line directed through one or more heat exchangers at which lubricant is cooled. The cool line then is routed to a fan drive gear system of an associated gas turbine engine. A method and apparatus are disclosed. The heat exchangers include at least an air/oil cooler wherein air is pulled across the air/oil cooler to cool oil. The air/oil cooler is provided with an ejector tapping compressed air from a compressor section to increase airflow across the air/oil cooler. |
| US08261523B2 |
Clip control system for walk reel mower
A reel cutting unit of a reel mower is provided with a belt and pulley drive system for rotating the reel of the cutting unit at variable speeds when the ground speed of the reel cutting unit is substantially constant to provide different clips. The drive system has three pulleys of different diameter in engagement with the belt in drive, driven and idler positions. The pulleys can be interchangeably used in any of the positions by moving the pulleys around into the different positions in six different possible arrangements. The pulleys are selectively placed in one arrangement at a time to select the clip provided by that arrangement. A chain and sprocket drive system with different diameter sprockets may be used in place of the belt and pulley drive system. The belt and pulley drive system may comprise toothed pulleys and toothed timing belt. |
| US08261522B2 |
Reel gang mower having reel cutting units with adjustable pull point locations
A reel gang mower has a row of front reel cutting units and a row of rear reel cutting units that cut an unbroken swath of grass in each pass. Each cutting unit is connected for propulsion to the mower frame by a four-bar linkage having front and rear pivot links that converge towards a focal point that establishes a virtual pull point through which propulsive force acts on the cutting unit. The rear pivot links can attach to the mower frame at a selected one of different attachment points to thereby longitudinally shift the pull point fore-and-aft relative to the center of gravity of the cutting unit, thus changing the fore-and-aft weight distribution. The rear cutting units in the gang can be configured to have a tail heavy weight distribution relative to the front cutting units to help eliminate marking in the overlap areas between the cutting units. |
| US08261519B2 |
Stabilizing system for a saddle
The invention also a stabilizing system to stabilize a rider in the saddle comprising a saddle stabilizer block which can be used alone or in combination with a complementary boot stabilizer block to restrict movement of the rider in the saddle. |
| US08261517B2 |
Fuel cap
A fuel tank cap including a body, a seal carrier movably positioned within the body, a first seal positioned on the seal carrier and configured for sealably engaging a filler tube opening of a fuel tank, and a second seal positioned on the seal carrier and configured for sealably engaging the body. |
| US08261513B2 |
Apparatus and method for severing and loading bag fasteners
A clip-separating machine is provided with a guide frame, a clipper, and a displacement structure. The guide frame is configured to support a strip of clips. The clipper has a pair of opposed cutting edges. One of the edges is supported for movement toward and away from another of the edges. The displacement structure is configured to move the one cutting edge toward the other cutting edge so as to cause co-action of the cutting edges to sever a terminal clip from a strip of clips. A method is also provided. |
| US08261512B2 |
Round baler
A baler with a bale pressing chamber for agricultural stalk materials is connected with a wrapping device comprising a wrapping table for the enveloping of a bale with foil via at least one support frame carried by a chassis, between the baler and the wrapping device at least one actively driven bale transfer device for the transfer of the finished bale from the bale pressing chamber to the wrapping table of the wrapping device is present, and as a function of the inclination of the baler and/or the wrapping device to the perpendicular the operational sequence of the transfer of the bale from the bale pressing chamber to the wrapping device is controlled. |
| US08261507B2 |
Flooring profile
The invention relates to a flooring panel having opposed pairs of substantially parallel side edges, a tongue connector member, and a groove connector member. In one aspect, the tongue connector member extends along one side edge and the groove connector member extends along the opposed side edge. The tongue connector member and the groove connector member are configured to cooperatively couple with each other such that portions of the coupled flooring panels are positioned in abutting relationship. |
| US08261503B2 |
Fastener element and system for curing concrete
Provided is a fastener element for securing a curing blanket over the open upper end of a concrete form. The fastener element comprises a wire body including a central portion extending laterally for at least the distance of the width of the concrete form and a pair of attachment portions at opposite ends of the central portion. The attachment portions secure the fastener element to the outer walls of the concrete form. |
| US08261502B2 |
Tower foundation system
The present invention relates to a tower foundation system (30) comprising a foundation (32) for a bottom section (36) of a tower, which bottom section (36) is to be connected to the upper part of the foundation (32), wherein the bottom section (36) is cast into the foundation (32) with an ultra high performance grout (42). |
| US08261497B2 |
Embedment tile with replaceable top plate
An embedment tile with a replaceable upper plate and a lower plate joined by fasteners in a manner that permits replacement of the upper plate when desired. The embedment tile upper plate comprises a plate having a pattern of upwardly extending projections on its upper surface forming a tactilely detectable pattern. |
| US08261496B2 |
Attachment of photovoltaic devices to substrates using slotted extrusion members
The invention describes extruded member systems to which a photovoltaic device is secured to an architectural surface. |
| US08261495B1 |
Connector system for connecting panels of framing members
A system for connecting panels of framing members utilizes five types of monolithic, elongate connectors. A first connector has a cross-section defined by an L-shaped portion and a straight portion extending from a bottom tip of the foot of the L-shaped portion at an angle. A second connector has a cross-section defined by an L-shaped portion and a straight portion extending from a top tip of the leg of the L-shaped portion at the same angle as the first connector. A third connector has a cross-section defined by a U-shaped portion and two straight sections extending away from the U-shaped portion. A fourth connector has a cross-section defined by two equal-length straight portions meeting at a right angle, and a fifth connector has a cross-section defined by a single straight portion. |
| US08261494B2 |
Floor and electrical generator module
The present invention relates to a flooring module for forming a floor, and which also incorporates a photovoltaic cell for generating electricity. The floor and electrical generator module has a body comprising: a floor surface for forming a floor; and at least one photovoltaic cell; the module further comprising a support means supporting the body and allowing movement of the body between first and second positions; wherein the module is configured such that the body can function either as a floor in the first position when the floor surface is uppermost or as an electrical generator in the second position when the photovoltaic cell is uppermost. |
| US08261487B2 |
Method and apparatus for growing plants
A plant growing assembly configured to grow a plurality of plants in multiple directions above a ground surface. The assembly includes a growing container and a support structure for elevating the container above the ground surface. The container presents a generally hollow body to retain a plant-growing medium and the plurality of plants. The body extends along an axis to present opposite axial end margins and a radial peripheral wall. The wall defines a plurality of discrete plant-receiving ports extending therethrough, and disposed generally radially about the wall. A method of growing plants above ground in substantially opposite directions from one another is also disclosed. |
| US08261485B2 |
Add-on greenhouse for rooms
The invention concerns a propagator with a skeletal structure consisting of floor (5), roof (3), side (1) and door elements (1′) which can each be separately and variably joined together and each have a light- and airtight covering (7) and guides (9) for stabilization and also connecting elements (11, 17). The covering (7) consists of several layers and has a highly reflective inner layer.The stabilizing elements are made of round steel tubes. The connectors are flaps (11) which are connected to one another with hook-and-loop fastenings (13). A further connector element is a three-arm connector (17) for connecting side elements (1, 1′) to one another.The invention also involves a flange for connecting an interior compartment to an exterior framework, with a threaded connector (23) which can be guided precisely through an opening (21) in the border between the interior and the outside, and a threaded ring (25) which works together with the thread on the connector (23) to form the flange. |
| US08261480B2 |
Rigid composite structure with a superhard interior surface
A rigid composite structure has a bore formed in a metallic material and a super hard interior segment or segments disposed within the bore. Each segment may be lined adjacent to one another and held under compression within the bore. The segments may be made of super hard materials such as natural diamond, synthetic diamond, polycrystalline diamond, single crystalline diamond, cubic boron nitrate or other superhard composite materials which exhibit low thermal expansion rates and are generally chemically inert. The resultant rigid composite structure may possess higher tolerances to high pressures and high temperatures. |
| US08261479B2 |
Bolt action rifle with safety latching mechanism
A bolt action rifle with safety latching mechanism has an upper receiver including a movable bolt assembly, a lower receiver having a trigger assembly and releasably attached to the upper receiver, the bolt assembly movable between a cocked position and an uncocked position, and the upper receiver and the lower receiver including a latching mechanism operable to prevent the lower receiver from being detached from the upper receiver while the bolt assembly is in the cocked position. |
| US08261476B2 |
Collapsible tradeshow display with curved panel
A collapsible tradeshow display includes curved end panels that provide for easier attachment and eliminate the possibility of dramatic disengagement of the panel from the display. Each end panel has a generally planar body comprised of a resilient material having a tendency to return to a generally flat configuration when in a curved configuration. A pair of side margins extend along opposing vertical sides of the body, each having a bridge portion attached thereto. A connecting means can connect the bridge portions to retain the panel in the curved configuration. |
| US08261472B2 |
Retrofitted excavator tooth attachment
An excavator implement attachment system can include a tooth having a pocket formed therein, an insert received in a recess formed in an adaptor nose and a threaded fastener which releasably secures the tooth on the nose, the fastener having a helical thread formed thereon which is eccentric relative to a fastener body. A tooth can include a pocket with at least one side wall which has an insert-receiving recess and generally planar insert-engaging interface surfaces formed therein, with one interface surface resisting rotation of the tooth about a longitudinal axis in one direction, and another interface surface resisting rotation of the tooth about the longitudinal axis in an opposite direction. An excavator tooth can include a pocket bounded by opposing side walls, with at least one of the side walls having an insert-receiving recess internally formed thereon, whereby the recess receives an insert installed in an adaptor nose. |
| US08261469B2 |
Articles of footwear and other foot-receiving devices including differently oriented impact-attenuation elements
Impact-attenuation systems, e.g., for use in footwear, can help control foot positioning during a step cycle, e.g., to help reduce or eliminate misorientation of the foot, and the fatigue and/or strain that may result from such misorientation. Articles of footwear including such impact-attenuation systems may include: (a) an upper member; and (b) a sole structure engaged with the upper member. The sole structure may include: (i) a first impact-attenuating member located in a heel portion of the foot-supporting member, and (ii) a second, separate impact-attenuating member located at a rear, lateral heel portion. The second impact-attenuating member may be arranged at a different orientation with respect to the longitudinal direction as compared to the first orientation. Impact-attenuation systems having the characteristics described above, as well as methods of making and using products containing such systems, also are described. |
| US08261460B2 |
Line holders for masonry work and the like
A relatively thin, stiff, flat guide line holder or “trig” for accurately supporting and positioning intermediate portions of tautly stretched guide lines such as are used by bricklayers and stone masons in laying courses of bricks, blocks and stones during the erection of masonry walls has a centrally located body portion, and an integrally formed, forwardly projecting guide line support portion. During use, the body portion is positioned atop a flat surface of a wall being erected to support the line holder at a desired height to be met by masonry elements added to the wall, with the support portion projecting forwardly beyond a front surface plane of the wall being erected. Passage formations defined by the support portion open downwardly through a bottom surface of the support portion at two spaced locations along the front surface plane when the line holder is properly positioned. Slot formations defined by the support portion provide a track, or tracks, along which a loop of the guide line can be moved into the passage formations so lengthy portions of the guide line located on opposite sides of the loop can extend along the front surface plane in opposite directions away from the line holder when the guide line is drawn taut at the desired height. |
| US08261458B2 |
Geomagnetic sensor device and digital compass with the same
A geomagnetic sensor device comprises a first geomagnetic sensor comprising a first Wheatstone bridge circuit and a second Wheatstone bridge circuit which are arranged in the same horizontal coordinate system, and a second geomagnetic sensor comprising a third Wheatstone bridge circuit and a fourth Wheatstone bridge circuit which are arranged in the same vertical coordinate system. Each of the Wheatstone bridge circuits comprises at least four magnetoresistive elements connecting and having power input terminals and signal output terminals. The present invention can obtains a stable and high output signal and achieves high measurement accuracy for the geomagnetic azimuth angle. The present invention also discloses a digital compass. |
| US08261457B1 |
Laser jaw setting system for CNC lathes
A CNC lathe jaw alignment system in which the position of the work holding edge of a chuck jaw is accurately located with respect to a work holding tool block mounted on a CNC lathe turret. A laser alignment tool is provided which includes a housing containing a light emitting laser module powered by a battery and an on/off switch. This laser module is used to project a laser beam onto the mounting face of a CNC lathe chuck to form a red target dot at the diameter of the workpiece. The laser alignment tool allows the lathe operator to visually see the workpiece diameter on the chuck as a red target dot generated by the laser module. This red target dot allows the operator to substantially expedite the process of accurately attaching jaws to a CNC lathe chuck in preparation for machining processes. |
| US08261456B2 |
Hand saw
A hand saw that includes a saw blade and a handle assembly having a clamp member movable between a clamped position and a released position. In the clamped position the clamp member exerts a clamping force on a top edge of the saw blade within a slot of the handle assembly to couple the saw blade to the handle assembly and to retain a tang of the saw blade within the slot. In the released position the tang is removable from the slot. A first interior wall and a second interior wall of the handle assembly that define the slot are flat such that the tang of the saw blade can be removed from the slot without moving the saw blade in a direction normal to a longitudinal axis of the saw blade when the clamp member is in the released position. |
| US08261447B2 |
Method for manufacturing a drive wheel bearing device
A method for manufacturing a drive wheel bearing device is provided. During the manufacturing, a swaged portion is formed in a manner as a non-hardened region, and in a manner that variations based on a reference surface in the axial direction of the flat surface are restricted within +/−0.2 mm. The reference surface is provided with an end face on an outboard side of a flange for an attachment of a wheel or an end face on an inboard side of the flange for attachment to a vehicle body. Part of the swaged portion making contact with an outer joint member of to drive wheel bearing device is formed into a flat surface. Serrations and a pilot part are formed on an inner periphery of a first inner member of the drive wheel bearing device. An inner peripheral surface of the pilot part is formed as a turned surface, and the turned surface has been turned after forming the swaged portion. A serrated shaft is formed on the outer joint member for transmitting torque to and from the first inner member through the serrations and an outer periphery surface opposing to the pilot part. A surface hardened layer is formed on the outer joint member by heat treatment in a region that includes at least the serrated shaft. |
| US08261440B2 |
Method for inserting a terminal of an electrical wire
A terminal insertion apparatus having a connector housing holding unit, a terminal insertion unit, and a control unit. The connector housing holding unit holds a connector housing movably in horizontal and vertical directions. The terminal insertion unit inserts a terminal attached to an electric wire into a terminal accommodating chamber of the connector housing. After the terminal insertion unit has inserted an end of the terminal into the terminal accommodating chamber, the control unit controls a movable supporting unit of the connector housing holding unit so as to move a holding jig by amounts of movement in horizontal and vertical directions so that the terminal is not caught on an inner surface of the terminal accommodating chamber, and then the terminal is completely inserted in the terminal accommodating chamber. |
| US08261434B2 |
Device for releasably fastening a wire foil in an installation for producing paper
A device for releasably fastening a wire foil to a supporting strip in an installation for producing paper. The installation has a wire and wire foils that extend transversely with respect to the movement direction of the wire. The foils are situated at a spacing from one another in the movement direction of the wire and come into contact with the wire. Supporting strips for the wire foils are assigned to the wire foils and likewise extend transversely with respect to the movement direction of the wire. The wire foils or the supporting strips which are assigned to them are configured in their longitudinal direction with an undercut groove, and the supporting strips or the wire foils are configured with a spring which corresponds to the cross section of the undercut groove. It is possible for the wire foils to be pushed with play onto the supporting strips transversely with respect to the movement direction of the wire, with the result that, in their operating position, they are fastened releasably to the supporting strips. A clamping strip which extends in the longitudinal direction of the supporting strip and the wire foil is provided between the supporting strip and the wire foil, the displacement of the clamping strip in its longitudinal direction bringing about a transverse movement of the wire foil with respect to the supporting strip, as a result of which the wire foil is connected rigidly in its operating position to the supporting strip. |
| US08261432B2 |
Disk spacer drop-proofing tool for disk removal process
An apparatus for removal of a disk in a disk stack. The apparatus includes a shaft. The shaft has an end portion insertable into a disk remover tool. The shaft has a positioning portion at an end of the shaft opposite the insertable end portion. The positioning portion includes a surface de-tensionizer. The surface de-tensionizer provides disengagement of surface tension between the disk and a disk spacer during a disk removal process performed thereon. |
| US08261430B2 |
Method for manufacturing anti-electromagnetic interference shields
A method for manufacturing anti-EMI shields on computer chassis, the method includes the following steps. The anti-EMI plate is glued to the computer chassis. The anti-EMI plate is pressed onto the plate by a pressing machine, and then the plate is quick dried with the anti-EMI plate by a drying machine. The plate is cut into desired dimension with the anti-EMI plate by a cutting machine, and the plate is stamped into desired shape with the anti-EMI plate by a stamping machine. |
| US08261429B2 |
Arcuate coil winding and assembly for axial gap electro-dynamo machines (EDM)
An axial gap EDM deploys as a stator coils a series of two parallel serpentine windings that each circumscribe an arc segment of a circle. Each arc segment that forms the stator winding assembly is powered as a separate phase. The two winding are readily formed by shaping one or more wire segment. Preferably the parallel winding are arranged to overlap with a half period rotational offset such that the radial directed serpentine segments of that are disposed above and below the stator disk are interlaced when viewed in projection through the disk. In one embodiment, each series of serpentine winding are separated by a gap so that they can be inserted on the stator disk from the edge. A separate rotor disk is adjacent each side of this stator disk. In another embodiment, each series of serpentine winding are separated by a gap, so they can be inserted to surround a single rotor disk which has two series of magnets disposed on opposite sides. |
| US08261428B2 |
Method for assembling a 3-dimensional microelectrode structure
The present invention discloses a method for assembling a 3D microelectrode structure. Firstly, 2D microelectrode arrays are stacked to form a 3D microelectrode array via an auxiliary tool. Then, the 3D microelectrode array is assembled to a carrier chip to form a 3D microelectrode structure. The present invention uses an identical auxiliary tool to assemble various types of 2D microelectrode arrays having different shapes of probes to the same carrier chip. Therefore, the method of the present invention increases the design flexibility of probes. The present invention also discloses a 3D microelectrode structure, which is fabricated according to the method of the present invention and used to perform 3D measurement of biological tissues. |
| US08261427B2 |
Methods for manufacturing crystal devices
Crystal devices are disclosed, of which an exemplary device includes a crystal frame comprising a crystal vibrating piece having an electrode pattern and an outer frame supporting the crystal vibrating piece. The device also includes a crystal package base including at least one connection electrode formed on a first main surface and at least one external electrode formed on a second main surface, wherein the second main surface is opposite the first main surface. The crystal frame and crystal base are layered together with a lid wafer to form a 3-layer sandwich. The layers of the sandwich are bonded together by siloxane bonding, which results in the connection electrodes contacting the electrode pattern on the crystal vibrating piece. |
| US08261422B2 |
Functional element for the attachment to a sheet metal part, component assembly manufactured from these and also a method for the attachment of the functional element to a sheet metal part
A functional element (10), for fixing to a piece of sheet metal (40), such as for example, a nut element or a bolt element with a body section or head section, comprising an annular flange (14) which transforms into a cylindrical rivet section, is characterized in that the transformation from annular flange into the rivet section is formed by an at least essentially conical surface, forming a contact surface for a corresponding conical region of a piece of sheet metal, which, on fixing the functional element to a piece of sheet metal, is clamped between the side of the annular flange facing the rivet section and an annular bead (50) formed from the rivet section. An assembled component and a method for the fixing of a functional element are also disclosed. |
| US08261414B2 |
Holder for culinary utensil
A holder comprising on the one hand a base designed for fixing on a culinary item, and comprises a use positioning member and a rotary shaft, and on the other hand a handle pivoting on the rotary shaft and a lock mounted in such a way that it can move between a locked position in which it engages with the use positioning member in such a way as to immobilize the handle and a release position in which it allows it to be rotated. The use positioning member is on the rotary shaft. |
| US08261412B1 |
Hinge assembly and foldable electronic device using the same
A hinge is operable to a fixed open position where it is prevented from being closed and to a position where it is released from the fixed open position and is capable of being operated to a closed position. |
| US08261411B2 |
Hinge
A hinge comprises a shaft, a bracket, a first interference member, a second interference member, and a sleeve member set around and in tight contact with the shaft. A first end of the sleeve member is fixed to the bracket, and a second end of the sleeve member is fixed to the second interference member. The shaft rotates in the sleeve member to rub against the inner surface of the sleeve member to supply friction. |
| US08261410B2 |
Blow molded hinge members and a mold for forming the hinge members
A hinge member for a blow-molded article includes at least two hinge arms with axial holes defined therein and a hinge pin extended therethrough. The hinges arms include upper and lower ones provided on the two parts of the article respectively. At least two openings are defined in the wall of each hinge arm and parallel to a horizontal plane at which the axis of the axial hole is located. At least one opening is positioned at each side of the horizontal plane. The length and width of the openings are arranged such that each opening corresponds to a particular section of the axial hole. The axial hole can be formed by providing corresponding bulges in the mold without removing a core pin, thereby simplifying molding process and increasing yield rate. The present disclosure also provides a blow-molded article having the hinge member and a mold for forming the article. |
| US08261408B2 |
Squeegee assembly for a floor cleaning machine
A squeegee assembly for removing liquids from a floor. The squeegee assembly includes a frame that has a first and second suction ports separated from each other in a lateral direction, and a squeegee blade coupled to the frame and positioned adjacent the suction ports. The squeegee blade has a first portion adjacent the first suction port, and a second portion adjacent the second suction port. The first portion extends in lateral directions away from the first suction port at an angle to channel fluid encountered by the first portion toward the first suction port. The second portion extends in lateral directions away from the second suction port at an angle to channel fluid encountered by the second portion toward the second suction port such that the squeegee blade acts as a separate funnel for each of the first suction port and the second suction port. |
| US08261406B2 |
Vacuum with multiple exhaust points
A vacuum is provided with multiple exhaust points which provide for quieter, lower velocity discharge of the air from the vacuum source. The multiple exhaust points are supplied from a radially extending chamber that is defined between upper and lower panels. The radially extending chamber has both vertical and radial sections that operate to slow the velocity of the exhaust air to reduce the noise generated by the vacuum. |
| US08261404B2 |
Vertebra for wiper with at least two wire elements
The present invention provides a wiping blade (30) for removing water from a surface having one or more vertebrae (32, 34, 36, 38) comprising at least one rail (32, 34) and at least one spring (36, 38), wherein said rail (32, 34) is curved and provides an elastic force quasi perpendicular to the windscreen, and said wire spring (36, 38) is fitted to said rail over its entire length or a part thereof and provides an elastic force in the direction of the length of the vertebra. |
| US08261400B2 |
Brush system for a labeling machine
A brush system (1) for a labeling machine (40) is disclosed. The brush system (1) comprises a carrier (30) with a plurality of receptacles (32) and at least two brush elements (10) removably attached to the carrier (30). Each brush element (10) comprises a brush body (11) with a functional side (13) on a first side of the brush body (11), the functional side (13) having bristles (14), and with a carrier side (12) on a second side of the brush body (11). The carrier side (12) of each brush element (10) exhibits at least one clamping means (15), which together with a receptacle (32) of the carrier (30) provides for a removable attachment. Each clamping means (15) exhibits at least two elastic catch hooks (16), which lock into one of the receptacles (32). |
| US08261395B2 |
Electric pan scrubber device
Disclosed is a handheld, motorized cleaning device, comprising a removable rotary cleaning element, a fluid soap reservoir, an electric motor with drive means and a handle having an interior storage for battery power. The handle separates into segments to align a series of batteries, while its working end comprises a refillable reservoir of cleaning solution that is adapted to operate with a plurality of independent cleaning elements, without discharging and refilling between elements. An aperture along the base of the reservoir communicates cleaning solution through the cleaning element to develop lather while the cleaning element is rotated by the electric motor and drive means. The aperture opening is controlled by a rotational slide gate means at the base of the reservoir. In use, the cleaning element is placed in contact with a surface to physically remove built-up dirt and debris, while the soap further breaks down tougher grime and grease. |
| US08261391B2 |
Wash cycle for oxidizing agents
A wash cycle for a clothes washer, the clothes washer having a wash zone defined within a rotating drum having an outer wall, for receiving a load of fabric. The steps include dispensing a volume of a first wash liquor to the wash zone, rotating the drum to move the fabric load toward the outer wall and recirculating the first wash liquor through the fabric load and wash zone, all during a first period of time. The fabric load is then flexed during a second period of time. The cycle continues with the steps of dispensing a volume of a second, different wash liquor to the wash zone, rotating the drum to move the fabric load toward the outer wall and recirculating the second liquor through the fabric load and wash zone during a third period of time. One of the two wash liquors is an oxidizing agent wash liquor. Then the remainder of the wash cycle is completed. |
| US08261389B2 |
Cloth treating apparatus and controlling method thereof
A control method of the same are disclosed. A control method of a laundry treating machine comprising an accommodating space receiving laundry therein, the control method includes selecting one of at least two sanitary courses to sanitize objects, and supplying steam to the objects, with controlling a temperature of the accommodating space and a steam supplying time to maintain a temperature of the object to be at a predetermined sanitary standard temperature or higher for a predetermined sanitary standard time according to the selected course. According to the control method of the present invention, steam may be supplied appropriately according to the load amount of the laundry treating machine such that damage of laundry fabric may be prevented, sanitizing, or sterilizing the laundry. |
| US08261386B2 |
Back support
A back support that provides lumbar support, mid-back support, lateral back support, and arm supports to compensate for a lack of strength in one's core muscles, such as after pregnancy or abdominal surgery. The arm supports are shaped to provide a surface to resist downward force of one's arms while allowing the arms to stay close to the body, as when holding or feeding a baby. The back support encourages proper spinal alignment by providing appropriate areas of support, including a protrusion on the top of the back support that serves as a physical cue to a user when their body is fully upright and centered. |
| US08261385B2 |
Table engageable support for head cushion supporting anesthetized patient
A support for the head of a patient lying in a generally prone position. The support features a tray adapted for support on an underlying operating table surface. A plurality of pins projecting from an engagement with the tray are positioned to engage and suspend either a cushion directly or a cushion engaged in a casing. The pins may be adjusted to raise or lower the engaged cushion or casing. A mirror is also provided to provide a reflective view a patient's eyes through slots in the cushion and casing engaged over a patient's face. A video camera may also concurrently be employed to capture electronic images of the patient's eyes and mouth through an aperture in the mirror. |
| US08261384B2 |
Back support device
A therapeutic back support device is disclosed which has adjustable curvature and portable thermal application. The back support device allows the user to change the curvature of the device to conform to the individual user's spine. The back support device includes include a support rib covered on one or more sides by padding. Built into the rib, padding, or both is a pocket or recess configured to accept a thermal cell. The thermal cell provides a heating or cooling cell to be placed within the pocket to thereby present heat or cold therapy to the user. On the back of the to device are one or more straps which may be length adjustable to maintain any degree of arch in the back support device. |
| US08261379B2 |
Modified deck plate for use with corrugated support surface
A floor drain support plate for mounting and securing a floor drain to a floor structure includes body having a peripheral edge, an interior cavity and a center passageway spaced radially apart from the peripheral edge and adapted to receive a pipe. The body of the support plate defining at least one slot adapted to be aligned with the floor drain for receiving a member for attaching the floor drain to the body of the support plate. A flange is attached to the body of the support plate and extends away from the interior cavity, the flange defining at least one flange slot adapted to receive a fastener, and two opposed elongated members or wing sections extending from said flange. |
| US08261378B2 |
Covered pool
A water pool with a cover that may be raised and lowered is presented herein. In one embodiment, the cover of the pool is a patio. In a further embodiment, the cover is raised and lowered by a lifting mechanism that is a hydraulic cylinder. A cover of a pool of the invention may be lowered to any point from the highest point to the lowest, providing a pool of variable depth at the discretion of the user. |
| US08261373B2 |
Decorative neckless
A necklace that does not fully encircle the neck of the user but, instead, has its two free ends with an affixing device at each free end to attach to the straps of the wearers garment or undergarment, such as a bra. In the preferred embodiment, the straps have a plurality of affixing devices vertically spaced along the strap so as to enable the user to position the necklace at differing heights on the wearer to suit the particular neckline of the attire worn by the user. In addition, the affixation and removal of the necklace takes place at the front of the wearer and thus is more convenient and easier to carry out than the use of a clasp that is intended to be manipulated behind the neck of the wearer. |
| US08261371B2 |
Pendulum necktie
A necktie having a wide end portion formed of a material presenting a first pattern and a narrow end portion formed of a material presenting a second, different, contrasting pattern. The necktie is tied around the neck of a user in a fashion such that the narrow end portion emerges from the knot in front of the wide end portion and hangs down freely from the knot in pendulum fashion in front of the wide end portion so as to present a contrasting pattern to the wide end pattern. Alternatively, the necktie may be tied around the neck of a user in a fashion such that the wide end portion emerges from the knot in front of the narrow end portion and hangs down freely from the knot in pendulum fashion behind the wide end portion so that the wide end portion covers the narrow end portion in conventional fashion and the pattern presented by the tie is that of the wide end portion. |
| US08261370B2 |
Collar support member with fastening means
The device and method according to an aspect of the present invention provides a garment collar support member for shaping a garment collar, wherein the garment collar support member comprises a first collar shaping region adapted to support a first collar associated with the garment collar, the first collar shaping region comprising a first non planar surface; a second collar shaping region adapted to support a second collar associated with the garment collar, the second collar shaping region comprising a second non planar surface; and a coupling system associated with coupling the first and second collar shaping region together for providing a housing region between the first and second non-planar surface, wherein the housing region stores at least one fastening item. |
| US08261369B2 |
Protective element for sports pads and the like
An impact resistant insert for a protective pad and having a stiffener layer of impact resistant, thermoformable material retaining a preset curve at ambient temperature such as to substantially return to the preset curve upon deformation, the stiffener layer becoming temporarily more flexible under heat such that the preset curve can be modified to a different preset curve with the stiffener layer subsequently maintaining the different preset curve at ambient temperature. Also, an impact resistant insert for a protective pad and having a front layer of flexible material, a stiffener layer of multi-cell material having front and rear surfaces with the front surface being connected to the front layer, the stiffener layer being substantially resistant to impact forces, retaining a preset curve and substantially returning to the preset curve upon deformation, and a rear layer of flexible material connected to the rear surface of the stiffener layer. |
| US08266717B2 |
Monitoring device for a computing device of a computer system, the computer system, and method for monitoring the computing device of the computer system
A monitoring device for a computing device of a computer system includes a remote control module, and a wireless receiving unit disposed on a computing device. The computing device includes an input/output control unit connected electrically to a central processing unit. The remote control module includes a microprocessor, and a connecting interface, a plurality of key units, and a wireless transmitting unit connected electrically to the microprocessor. Each of the key units is depressible to generate a control signal which is transmitted to the microprocessor. The microprocessor transmits the control signal to the input/output control unit through the connecting interface or the wireless transmitting and receiving units according to whether the connecting interface is connected to or disconnected from the input/output control unit so as to communicate with the computing device, thereby protecting the computer system and permitting power management. |
| US08266716B2 |
Digital rights management of streaming captured content based on criteria regulating a sequence of elements
A captured content rights controller detects a first portion of streaming captured content and a second portion of the streaming captured content after the first portion of the streaming captured content is detected. The captured content rights controller determines whether rendering the second portion of the streaming captured content after the first portion of the streaming captured content is subject to at least one digital rights management protection rule for streaming captured content as specified by at least one owner of at least one restricted element within the streaming captured content captured independent of distribution of the content by the owner of the at least one restricted element within the streaming captured content. The captured content rights controller applies the at least one digital rights management protection rule to restrict rendering of the second portion of the streaming captured content after the first portion of the streaming captured content. |
| US08266715B2 |
Method for executing digital right management and tracking using characteristic of virus and system for executing the method
A method of performing Digital Rights Management (DRM) and tracking using a virus characteristic and a system for executing the method are provided. The method of performing DRM and tracking with respect to a digital content, includes the steps of: providing a DRM code to the digital content in a DRM system, wherein the DRM code includes a virus characteristic; and performing the DRM and tracking with respect to the digital content, based on DRM information, wherein the DRM information is generated based on the DRM code. |
| US08266714B2 |
Access control in a multi-principal browser
A principal operating system based-browser controls access to resources. The resources are represented semantically in a resource object model. A browser kernel of the browser mediates resources access calls from principals. In some implementations the principals are web entities and the resources are peripheral devices. The resource object model separates device semantics from physical device access. Resource access control policies are maintained by the browser kernel and separated from device access mechanisms. |
| US08266709B2 |
Adjustable resolution media format
A play limit is set for a media file. The play limit can be, for example a date, or a number of times that the file has been played. When the file exceeds the play limit, the quality of the file playing is degraded. |
| US08266708B2 |
Privacy protection system
Novel system and methodology for protecting privacy of a computer device's user. A privacy protection device interacts with the computer device to enable the user to operate in multiple private modes. The system involves a data storage coupled to the privacy protection device, via a secure link, such as a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) tunnel that provides an encryption protocol. The data storage is divided into multiple storage sections corresponding to the multiple private modes. Each section is configured for storing encrypted data supporting a particular private mode. The privacy protection device enables the user to set a selected private mode and runs software applications that use the data from the storage section corresponding to the selected mode. |
| US08266707B2 |
Tamper resistant method, apparatus and system for secure portability of digital rights management-protected content
An apparatus and system provide a tamper-resistant scheme for portability of DRM-protected digital content. According to embodiments of the invention, a portable crypto unit may be utilized in conjunction with a VT integrity services (VIS) scheme as well as a Virtual Machine Manager (VMM) and a TPM to provide a secure scheme to protect digital content. Additionally, in one embodiment, the digital content may be partitioned into blocks comprising multiple segments to further enhance the security of the scheme. |
| US08266704B1 |
Method and apparatus for securing sensitive data from misappropriation by malicious software
A method and apparatus for securing sensitive data from misappropriation by malicious software is provided. In one embodiment, the method for securing sensitive data from misappropriation by malicious software includes examining a history to identify potentially compromised sensitive data upon an occurrence of the malicious software and notifying a user regarding the potentially compromised sensitive data. |
| US08266697B2 |
Enabling network intrusion detection by representing network activity in graphical form utilizing distributed data sensors to detect and transmit activity data
A method, system, and computer program product for detecting and mapping activity occurring at and between devices on a computer network for utilization within an intrusion detection mechanism. An enhanced graph matching intrusion detection system (eGMIDS) utility executing on a control server provides data collection functions and data fusion techniques. The eGMIDS comprises multiple sensors and associated unique adaptors that are located at different remote devices of the network and utilized to detect specific types of activity occurring at the respective devices relevant to eGMIDS processing. The sensors convert the data into eGMIDS format and encapsulate the data in a special transmission packet that is transmitted to the control server. The eGMIDS utility converts the activity data within these packets into eGMIDS-usable format and then processes the converted data via a data fusion technique to generate a graphical representation of the network (devices) and the activity occurring at/amongst the various devices. |
| US08266692B2 |
Malware automated removal system and method
The present invention automates the operation of multiple malware removal software products using a computerized system that systematically operates the multiple selected software products. These products are operated them in a customized “Safe Mode” using a shell that is different than the computer's other shell environments. Unlike the ordinary Safe Modes shells, the Custom Safe Mode prevents malware from functioning that ties itself to the normal shell, such as the Windows Explorer shell. In addition, the Custom Safe Mode allows the automation of tasks beyond that which is available under the standard command line shell. |
| US08266688B2 |
Systems and methods for enhancing security by selectively opening a listening port when an incoming connection is expected
The present solution reduces the attack surface of a server by selectively opening a server port for listening when a client has been authenticated/authorized via another machine or process, and directed to connect to the server in question. When not selectively listening on a port, the server does not listen or open ports for connections or otherwise minimizes the number of open ports. By selectively listening for connections, the server reduces the opportunity for hackers to attack the server process, and improves the security of the server. The ability to selectively listen on a port at specific times may be combined with additional meta information—like ticketing and prior authentication information to help further secure the server. The meta information may identify and ensure that only the correct remote endpoint is allowed to connect via the port. Instead of first listening for connections and then authenticate and authorize the received connection as with typical servers, the present solution first authenticates/authorizes a connection via another machine or process, then listens for an expected and authorized connection. |
| US08266687B2 |
Discovery of the use of anonymizing proxies by analysis of HTTP cookies
In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for systems, methods, and devices that determine whether a website request is from a proxy website or an anonymizer. Embodiments intercept a website request from an end point; identify at least one cookie present in said website request; analyze a predetermined characteristic of said website request, where the predetermined characteristic associated with the cookie; and apply a rule corresponding to said predetermined characteristic to make the determination as to whether the request is from a proxy website or anonymizer. |
| US08266683B2 |
Automated security privilege setting for remote system users
A method of secure communication involves determining that a remote system is trusted prior to authorizing secure communication therewith. A removable security device is coupled with a first system. When the first system communicates with a remote system securely, the remote system is evaluated to ensure that it is a trusted remote system prior to secure communication therewith being allowed. |
| US08266673B2 |
Policy-based privacy protection in converged communication networks
System(s) and method(s) that employ deep packet inspection (DPI) of data flow relating to a requested service associated with a communication device to facilitate customizing the service or results provided by the service are presented. A service request can be received by a gateway identification of the service is attempted. If the service is identified, a privacy rule(s), which is contained in a user privacy profile of a user associated with the communication device, is analyzed to determine whether the privacy rule(s) applies to the service. If the privacy rule(s) is applicable, a DPI engine performs DPI on the data flow, in accordance with the privacy rule(s), to obtain information that can be used to customize the service or results provided by the service. The user can specify the level of DPI to be applied. A default rule can specify that no DPI is performed on the data flow. |
| US08266668B2 |
Broadcast receiver, data structure, and method for providing diagnostic information
A host is configured to communicate with a video data recording device. The host includes a host controller configured to receive a video data recording device diagnostic information request originated external to the host. The host controller further configured to collect the video data recording device diagnostic information from the video data recording device in response to the external request. |
| US08266664B2 |
Methods and apparatus to provide messages to television users
Methods and apparatus to provide messages to television users are disclosed. An example method includes receiving a request for a voicemail message from the television user, determining a voicemail mailbox associated with the television user, and sending at least one of a list of one or more voicemail messages or a voicemail message to a display device associated with the television user. |
| US08266657B2 |
Method for effectively implementing a multi-room television system
A method for effectively implementing a multi-room television system includes a digital base station that processes and combines various program sources to produce a processed stream. A communications processor then responsively transmits the processed stream as a local composite output stream to various wired and wireless display devices for flexible viewing at variable remote locations. The transmission path performance is used to determine the video encoding process, and special attention is taken to assure that all users have low-latency interactive capabilities. |
| US08266651B2 |
Information providing system, information terminal device, information server device and information providing method
An information providing system allows to intentionally modify the arrangement of clips to be reproduced from that of the first transmission. The program clips and the CM clips obtained by receiving those broadcast are stored in recorded result storage section 11 and rearrangement examining section 15 carries out a processing operation of comparing the attributes of each of the clips and the applicable profile data generated by applicable profile generating section 14. Then, the sequence of reproducing the contents clips is modified on the basis of the result of the processing operation and download operating section 16 downloads the contents clips to be added on an on-demand basis. Then, the final arrangement section 17 rearranges the sequence of reproducing the contents clips including those to be added to set up the final arrangement. |
| US08266646B2 |
Cooperative system for measuring electronic media
A cooperative electronic media measurement system is disclosed that measures the electronic media usage of one or more individuals by a media research entity. The media research entity defines at least one specialized task useful to the media research entity. The at least one specialized task is performed by a media handler provided by another entity and concerns a handling of electronic media by the media handler. The individual is tracked with at least one software agent of the media research entity. At least one software agent obtains a product of the specialized task performed by the media handler via at least one defined interface that provides interoperability between the media handler and the at least one software agent. Cooperative media handlers automatically obtain information from, or otherwise obtain information about, presented media objects including identification tags, if present, and other information, for collection by the research data collection agents. |
| US08266645B2 |
Audio based methods and apparatus for detecting a channel change event
Methods and apparatus for detecting a channel change event are disclosed. capturing a television audio signal having first, second, and third portions, the first portion occurring earlier in time than the second portion and the second portion occurring earlier in time than the third portion, identifying at least one of a first muted audio condition or a first transient audio condition in the second portion of the television audio signal, and identifying a channel change event in response to: 1) identifying the at least one of the first muted audio condition or the first transient audio condition, 2) failing to identify a second muted audio condition or a second transient audio condition in the first and third portions of the television audio signal, and 3) determining that a time domain length of the second portion of the television audio signal is greater than a first threshold and less than a second threshold. |
| US08266644B2 |
Digital television channel trending
Channel trending, including determining a number of viewers watching a multimedia program, is achieved in a digital television network. Cached multimedia frames that correspond to portions of the multimedia program are maintained, for example, on a device located on an edge (i.e., in a network edge device) of the digital television network. In response to a request from a client device (e.g., a set-top box) to receive the multimedia program, cached multimedia frames are fed from the edge device to the client device. Upon a seamless transfer or handoff resulting in a simulcast replicator or multicast replicator providing further portions of the multimedia program, a signal (e.g., a simple network management protocol TRAP statement) is sent to a viewership statistic server for incrementing a counter. |
| US08266640B2 |
Disk guiding device
The present invention is related to a disk guiding device disposed on a disk process device, the disk guiding device comprises a base, a transmitting portion and a slaver. The base is disposed on a main body of the disk process device; the transmitting portion comprises a gear and a positioning module, wherein the gear is pivotally connected to the base and has a long gear and a plurality of short gears, the positioning module is disposed on the base for sustaining and taking the crown of the long gear for confining the rotation angle of the gear. The slaver is disposed and capable of sliding on a plane portion of the base, wherein a plurality of holes are disposed on the salver in sequence from an end-side of the salver toward the perpendicular direction of the end-side, and used for correspondingly engaging with the gear. |
| US08266636B2 |
Virtualize, checkpoint, and restart system V IPC objects during checkpointing and restarting of a software partition
Migrating a workload partition (WPAR) is provided. Responsive to receiving a request to checkpoint the WPAR, a list of virtual identifiers used by the WPAR to refer to IPC objects is generated and stored. Each virtual identifier corresponds to an IPC object and to a real identifier used by a kernel that corresponds to the IPC object. IPC object data and control information is collected and stored. Each process in the WPAR stores per process data. Responsive to receiving a request to restart the WPAR, the virtual identifier that the WPAR wants to be used is registered. A new IPC object is created by a kernel. The kernel maps a real identifier used by the kernel for the new IPC object to the registered virtual identifier. The restart process retrieves IPC data and control information and overlays it on the new IPC object. The per process data is restored. |
| US08266630B2 |
High-performance XML processing in a common event infrastructure
Delegation of processing functions to specialized appliances in an enterprise is provided. An appliance typically comprises a combination of hardware and resident firmware that addresses needs in a computing environment, such as by providing common message transformation, integration, security, filtering and other functions. Delegation is carried out by specifying at least one XML function for front-process offloading from a server to a corresponding appliance configured to receive messages pushed towards the server, communicating management directives to the appliance for configuring the appliance to perform the specified XML function(s) according to specific requirements dynamically specified by the server and communicating instructions to the appliance so that the appliance augments received event messages with intermediate processing information based upon the front-process offloading, as received event messages pass through the appliance. |
| US08266629B2 |
Virtual machine system, hypervisor in virtual machine system, and scheduling method in virtual machine system
Attempts are made to reduce the system overhead generated at the time of context save/restore processing to perform process switching in a virtual machine system. In a CPU occupancy mode that a physical CPU is exclusively allocated to virtual machines, a logical CPU process running on the physical CPU is static, so that it is not necessary to save/restore the context every time the processes are switched. When a switching source process is a logical CPU process in a CPU occupancy mode, a context save is temporarily suspended. When switching to the same logical CPU process is made again continuously, save/restore is skipped. When the logical CPU process of a VMM control VM runs in that period, the logical CPU process whose save is delayed is recorded and saved late. |
| US08266626B2 |
Apparatus, methods, and computer programs for identifying or managing vulnerabilities within a data processing network
A system, method, and service associated with a computing grid or a virtual organization include a request for proposal (RFP) generator, where the RFP describes a data processing task. The RFP is provided to multiple resource providers via the computing grid where each of the resource providers is potentially suitable for performing the data processing task on behalf of the resource consumer. An RFP response processor receives and evaluates RFP responses generated by one or more of the resource providers. An exception processor accessible to the RFP response processor evaluates any exception in the RFP to determine if the exception disqualifies the RFP response. The exceptions may include, for example, job time limit exceptions, resource requirement exceptions, hardware/software platform requirement exceptions and others. Exception rules may be defined to guide the evaluation of the exception. |
| US08266624B2 |
Task dispatch utility coordinating the execution of tasks on different computers
Computer resource management techniques involving receiving notification of an available resource, generating a set of tasks that could be performed by the resource, and dispatching one of the tasks on the resource. Related systems and software are also discussed. Some techniques can be used for automatic software building and testing. |
| US08266623B2 |
System, method, and computer program product for decomposing a sampling task into a plurality of jobs
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for decomposing a sampling task into a plurality of jobs. In operation, a sampling task is identified. Additionally, the sampling task is decomposed into a plurality of jobs. Further, each of the plurality of jobs are processed in parallel. Still yet, each of the plurality of jobs are allowed to terminate independently of the other plurality of jobs. |
| US08266622B2 |
Dynamic critical path update facility
A method is presented for dynamically selecting and updating a critical execution path. The method may include receiving a network of jobs for execution. One or more critical jobs may be included in the network of jobs. A job causing a delay in the execution of the network of jobs may be detected, where the job precedes the critical job. A critical path in the network of jobs may then be determined as a function of the job causing a delay. Determination of the critical path may be further based on a slack time associated with jobs in the network that have planned execution times preceding a planned execution time for the critical job. |
| US08266621B2 |
Information processing method, information processing apparatus, and server
In an information processing system, when a request for execution of a new task is accepted, one or more of the required processing time and bus bandwidth for the new task are identified. A total required processing time, which is a sum of processing times required for the new task and a task reserved on a scheduler for indicating a procedure pertaining to a plurality of tasks, is compared with a processing time available in an apparatus executing those tasks. Similarly, a total required bus bandwidth, which is a sum of bus bandwidths required for processing the reserved task and the new task, is compared with a bus bandwidth available in the apparatus. Based on the result of the comparisons, it is determined whether the new task is executable. |
| US08266620B2 |
Symmetric multiprocessor operating system for execution on non-independent lightweight thread contexts
A multiprocessing system is disclosed. The system includes a multithreading microprocessor, including a plurality of thread contexts (TCs), each comprising a first control indicator for controlling whether the TC is exempt from servicing interrupt requests to an exception domain for the plurality of TCs, and a virtual processing element (VPE), comprising the exception domain, configured to receive the interrupt requests, wherein the interrupt requests are non-specific to the plurality of TCs, wherein the VPE is configured to select a non-exempt one of the plurality of TCs to service each of the interrupt requests, the VPE further comprising a second control indicator for controlling whether the VPE is enabled to select one of the plurality of TCs to service the interrupt requests. The system also includes a multiprocessor operating system (OS), configured to initially set the second control indicator to enable the VPE to service the interrupts, and further configured to schedule execution of threads on the plurality of TCs, wherein each of the threads is configured to individually disable itself from servicing the interrupts by setting the first control indicator, rather than by clearing the second control indicator. |
| US08266618B2 |
Graphics hardware resource usage in a fully virtualized computing environment
Methods, systems and computer program products for graphics hardware resource usage in a fully virtualized computing environment. Exemplary embodiments include a method in a virtual data center having a first host and a second host, a graphics hardware resource usage the method including receiving a request for graphics hardware features that are unavailable on the first host, generating a first request to a provisioning broker to migrate a virtual machine residing on the first host to the second host having the graphics hardware features, migrating the virtual machine and a client connection to the second host, generating a second request to the provisioning broker to find a suitable host to which the virtual machine can migrate and migrating the virtual machine to the suitable host. |
| US08266617B2 |
Software distribution method and system
A software distribution method and a corresponding system are provided, where the configuration of a target computer is monitored to detect any hardware upgrade. In response thereto, the target computer generates a list of actions for removing software products not meeting a new configuration any longer and a list of actions for installing software products now meeting the new configuration. These lists are transmitted to a central site, and they trigger the building of a corresponding delta package. The delta package is then distributed to the target computer so as to ensure that the software products installed on the target computer are always consistent with its hardware configuration. |
| US08266611B2 |
Hard disk drive with disk embedded DOS boot image and firmware download method
A system, related hard disk drive (HDD) and method are disclosed in which a firmware download to the HDD is accomplished by receiving it from the host and storing it to a first region of a disk in the HDD. The value of a download flag is set once the firmware download is complete. After the system performs an OFF/ON power cycle, it checks the value of the download flag and changes a Logical Block Address mapping a second region of a non-user data region of the disk storing a DOS boot program. The firmware download is transferred from the first region to a third region of the disk or a non-volatile memory device following execution of a boot procedure by the host using the DOS boot program. |
| US08266610B2 |
Extension of swing modulo scheduling to evenly distribute uniform strongly connected components
A method, apparatus, and computer instructions for scheduling instructions for execution. Identify a series of instructions in a loop, wherein the series of instructions has a cyclic data dependency. Determine whether the series of instructions is a uniform series of instructions. Schedule execution of the uniform series of instructions within the loop to optimize execution of the loop in response to the identified series of instructions being the uniform series of instructions. |
| US08266608B2 |
Post-compile instrumentation of object code for generating execution trace data
The invention is directed to instrumenting object code of an application and/or an operating system on a target machine so that execution trace data can be generated, collected, and subsequently analyzed for various purposes, such as debugging and performance. Automatic instrumentation may be performed on an application's object code before, during or after linking. A target machine's operating system's object code can be manually or automatically instrumented. By identifying address space switches and thread switches in the operating system's object code, instrumented code can be inserted at locations that enable the execution trace data to be generated. The instrumentation of the operating system and application can enable visibility of total system behavior by enabling generation of trace information sufficient to reconstruct address space switches and context switches. |
| US08266600B2 |
Model checking of multi threaded software
A technique for model checking of multi-threaded software is herein disclosed which advantageously can be used to verify correctness properties expressed using temporal logic, e.g., linear time temporal logic and branching time temporal logic. The model checking problem of a concurrent system is decomposed into a plurality of model checking problems on individual threads of the multi-threaded software. |
| US08266599B2 |
Output from changed object on application
Human rules and heuristics may be applied in a logic determination to promote relevance of an output for testing due to a changed object on an application. The output comprises an indication of one or more objects from a plurality of available objects that are to be tested due to the changed object on the application. |
| US08266596B2 |
Source code analyzing system and source code analyzing method
Every time an assignment statement is executed during performing a simulation according to a second variable memory system, it is determined whether a value interpreted to have the same meaning is assigned to the assignment statement in the simulation according to a first variable memory system and in the simulation according to the second variable memory system. When the value interpreted to have the same meaning is not assigned, the value assigned according to the second variable memory system is overwritten by an expected value, and a report indicating that the assignment statement is a part dependent on a variable memory system is output. |
| US08266593B2 |
System and method for analyzing performance of a software testing system
A method of analyzing performance of a software testing system associated with a software system having multiple modules includes performing a computer-based complexity analysis of the software system, performing a computer-based impact analysis of information related to an impact of a defect on a module of the software system, and generating a computer-based distribution of effort across an impacted module of the software system based on the complexity analysis and the impact analysis to enhance the software testing system performance. The information may include reported defects from a working environment associated with the software system. The method may also include utilizing output data associated with the complexity analysis as input data to the impact analysis. |
| US08266591B2 |
Method and system for identifying suspect links between objects
Techniques are provided for identifying suspect links between objects from multiple domains. A plurality of links that associates a collection of requirement objects with a set of configuration management objects is stored. The collection of requirement objects is defined in a requirement management system for a software product, and the set of configuration management objects is defined in a configuration management system that is operable to manage the development of the software product. A determination is made that a particular requirement object was changed. In response to determining that the particular requirement object was changed, one or more links of the plurality of links are automatically determined. The one or more links respectively associate one or more configuration management objects, of the set of configuration management objects, with the particular requirement object. The one or more links are then identified as suspect. |
| US08266588B2 |
Creating projects in a rational application developer workspace
Automatically creating a current project in an application developer workspace is provided. In response to reading a project file for the current project, it is automatically determined whether the current project has one or more dependent projects based on data contained within the project file. In response to determining that the current project does have one or more dependent projects, a build file is automatically generated for each of the one or more dependent projects. The build file calls importing targets within each of the one or more dependent projects. Then, the current project and the one or more dependent projects are automatically imported into the application developer workspace to form a created current project. The created current project is created without launching an application developer application. In addition, the created current project is stored in a source code control repository. |
| US08266587B2 |
Method using SLP packing with statements having both isomorphic and non-isomorphic expressions
Disclosure for using SLP in processing a plurality of statements, wherein the statements are associated with an array having a number of array positions, and each statement includes one or more expressions. Expressions are gathered for each of the statements into a structure comprising a single merge stream furnished with a location for each expression. The location for a given expression is associated with one of the array positions. A plurality of expressions are selectively identified and SLP packing operations are applied to the identified expressions to merge into one or more isomorphic sub-streams. Expressions of the isomorphic sub-streams and other expressions of the single merge stream are combined into a number of input vectors that are substantially equal in length to one another. A location vector is generated that contains the respective locations for all of the expressions in the single merge stream. |
| US08266585B2 |
Assisting a software developer in creating source code for a computer program
In a software development system, a method for assisting a user in creating source code for a computer program in a high-level programming language. The method comprises: at a current user inputting location within a piece of source code under development, detecting a need for assisting the user with input for the creation of the piece of source code under development; determining fitting source code elements suitable for input at said current inputting location; and providing, e.g. displaying to the user said list of fitting source code elements, wherein, in order to determine the fitting source code elements, for each fitting source code element a respective fitting probability of the source code element in the current inputting location is determined, and wherein the user is provided with the list of fitting source code elements by associating to each fitting source code element in the list an indication of the respective fitting probability. |
| US08266579B2 |
System and method for developing and deploying a model-driven editor
A system and method for developing software using dynamic dual-mode model and data entry is presented. During development, a model developer uses a model window and an editor window to create a model-driven editor. The model window displays model data, and the editor window displays instances of the model data, which results in the model-driven editor. When the developer is ready to deploy the model-driven editor, the model developer simply inhibits the model window. Therefore, the models are not compiled during deployment and, in turn, the model developer does not need to test compiled code. Since the model-driven editor relies upon self-contained models, the models may be updated, added, or removed locally or remotely on an individual basis. In one embodiment, the end user is able to re-enable the model window in order to view model data. |
| US08266578B2 |
Virtual validation of software systems
A method for building and verifying and validating a software system that is used for regulated industry software related activities, such as FDA trials, field trials, biomedical data gathering, and similar efforts includes building the application into a virtual appliance using, for example, Vmware. The application and the supporting software are encapsulated in a single virtual file to create a virtual appliance that is independent of hardware and dependent only on virtual appliance support. |
| US08266577B2 |
RFID enhanced operating system (EOS) framework
A radio frequency identification (“RFID”) reader includes a hardware platform having a transceiver, an input/output interface, a controller, and a memory. The transceiver receives communication signals from at least one RFID tag. The controller is communicatively coupled to the transceiver and the input/output interface and controls the operation of the RFID reader. The memory is communicatively coupled to the controller and contains a software development framework for developing a software application. The framework includes a plurality of predefined encapsulated functional components that interact with at least one of the transceiver and the input/output interface, to allow the software application to operate in a manner that is independent of a specific embodiment of the RFID reader hardware platform. |
| US08266574B2 |
Method of optimizing parameters of electronic components on printed circuit boards
In a method of optimizing parameters of electronic components on printed circuit boards (PCBs), a first experiment table for m variables of one type of parameter of P electronic components on a PCB is designed using n values of each variable and the RSM. P EHs of each first experiment are obtained by simulating, and P EH empirical formulas are computed according to the P EHs. A second experiment table for the m variables is designed using n′ values of each variable and the full factorial design, and P EHs of each second experiment are computed using the P EH empirical formulas. Experiments, all the P EHs of which are greater than 1, are filtered from the second experiment tables, and an average EH of each filtered experiment is computed to pick an experiment the average EH of which is the greatest. The values of the m variables in the picked experiment are considered as optimized. |
| US08266572B2 |
Method for acquiring overshoot voltage and analyzing degradation of a gate insulation using the same
A method of acquiring an overshoot voltage applied to a transistor includes determining a first extraction value, the first extraction value including a product of acceleration factors determined in a test of the transistor, determining an applied time, the applied time corresponding to a length of time a voltage deviates from a predetermined level of an input voltage in a circuit employing the transistor, determining a second extraction value by dividing the first extraction value by the applied time, and determining the overshoot voltage by multiplying the second extraction value by the input voltage. |
| US08266569B2 |
Identification of critical enables using MEA and WAA metrics
A plurality of sequential nodes in a design file for an electronic device are identified and one or more combinatorial power metric values are computed for the plurality of sequential nodes based upon an effective switching capacitance, a switching activity measure, and a power effort measure for at least a first device downstream from the each sequential node at a specified depth. The combinatorial power metric values for the plurality of sequential node are stored and compared to a target power metric value to determine if power consumption at the electronic device meets a predetermined power performance goal. |
| US08266566B2 |
Stability-dependent spare cell insertion
Spare cells are placed in an IC design using stability values associated with logic cones of the design. A desired spare cell utilization rate is assigned to a cone based on its stability value, and an actual spare cell utilization rate for the cone bounding box is calculated. If the actual utilization rate is less than the desired utilization rate, additional spare cells are inserted as needed to attain the desired utilization rate. The stability value is provided by a logic or circuit designer, or derived from historical information regarding the logic cone in a previous design iteration. Spare cells are placed for each logic cone in the design until a global spare cell utilization target is exceeded. The spare cell placement method can be an integrated part of a placement directed synthesis which is followed by early mode padding and design routing. |
| US08266563B2 |
Multi-mode redundancy removal
A multi-mode redundancy removal method is provided. In this method, after accessing the design, a full-scale redundancy removal using fault simulation can be started. When a predetermined period for performing the full-scale redundancy removal has reached a first cut-off, then the method can determine a location for temporary outputs of the design, create the temporary outputs, and perform a localized redundancy removal up to the temporary outputs. An optimized design based on the full-scale redundancy removal and the localized redundancy removal can be output. |
| US08266561B2 |
Systems and techniques for developing high-speed standard cell libraries
A method for providing a high-speed cell library is provided. The method can include, for example, selecting a set of commonly-occurring logic functions. The method can then include obtaining a netlist of area distributions for each of the set of functions. The netlist can be used to synthesize a set of cell libraries wherein an N-diffusion to P-diffusion area allowance is varied among the set of cell libraries. Thereafter, the method may also include comparing a time delay associated with each of the set of cell libraries with a time delay of a library benchmark delay. Based on the comparing, a delay number may be associated with each of the cell libraries. Finally, the cell libraries may be ranked based on the respective delay numbers associated with each of the cell libraries. |
| US08266560B2 |
Methods and systems for computer aided design of 3D integrated circuits
Methods and systems for generating and verifying circuit layouts from computer-aided design tools for vertically integrated, three-dimensional integrated circuits are disclosed. In one instance, a 3-D technology file of these teachings is obtained by providing an identifier for two or more circuit levels, providing for each one of the two or more circuit levels an identifier for a 2-D technology file corresponding to each of the one or more circuit levels and providing a file structure including the two or more circuit levels and each identifier, corresponding to each one of the one or more circuit levels, for the 2-D technology file corresponding to each one of the two or more circuit levels. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08266553B1 |
System and method for detecting mask data handling errors
An integrated circuit device layout and a method for detecting mask data handling errors are disclosed in which integrated circuit device layout includes a device region in which operable circuitry is disposed. Integrated circuit device layout also includes a verification region in which verification elements are disposed. The verification elements include cells that are duplicates of at least some of the different types of cells in device region and can include structures that are duplicates of at least some of the types of structures in the device region. The patterns in verification region are used in the final verification process to identify mask data handling errors in a mask job deck. Because the patterns in verification region are easy to locate and identify, the time required to perform the final verification process is reduced and the chance of error in the final verification process is reduced. |
| US08266545B2 |
Device for bifurcated display of replay menus separating digital media files by file formats
A replay device includes a management means which manages all of the files stored upon a medium by separating them into first files and second files. And this replay device also includes an output means which creates and outputs a first menu screen upon which a list of the first files is shown, and a second menu screen upon which a list of the second files is shown, on the basis of the file management by the management means. Moreover, this replay device also includes a selection means which receives a selection of one of the first files to be replayed from the first menu screen, or receives a selection of one of the second files to be replayed from the second menu screen. And the replay device also includes a replay means which replays the first file or the second file which has been selected by the selection means. |
| US08266543B2 |
Device driver and a method of customizing layout of a user interface
A device driver or method that operate a periphery device. A display mode storage unit stores setting items, which are operable by a user using a user interface interfacing the device driver, into functionally mutually-related groups, as plates, the plates indicating display modes of the user interface for each group of the setting items. An alignment sequence setting unit sets an alignment sequence for the plates by allowing the user to set the alignment sequence. An arrangement unit arranges the plates in a plate display area on the user interface depending on the alignment sequence set by the alignment sequence setting. Each of the plates has a width that equals either a whole length or a half length of a width of the plate display area, and the arrangement unit arranges the plates in the plate display area depending on the alignment sequence set by the alignment sequence setting unit. |
| US08266541B2 |
Message window display control apparatus, method, and program product
A disclosed technology is for controlling the operation of displaying message windows. Plural message windows are not displayed at the same time in response to plural requests being made to start displaying the same message window. |
| US08266539B2 |
Enabling hypertext elements to work with software applications
Variables incorporated into a hypertext markup language document enable location of hypertext elements. Once the variable is located, the information contained within the identified hypertext element may be used in other applications. The information may be received, as a recognized input, by the application. |
| US08266538B2 |
Remote access to layer and user interface elements
A user-activatable dashboard (also referred to as a unified interest layer) contains any number of user interface elements, referred to herein as “widgets,” for quick access by a user. In response to a command from a user, the dashboard is invoked and the widgets are shown on the screen. The user can activate the dashboard at any time, causing the dashboard to temporarily replace the existing user interface display on the user's screen. Once the dashboard has been activated, the user can interact with any or all of the widgets, and can configure the dashboard by adding, deleting, moving, or configuring individual widgets as desired. When the user wishes to return to the normal user interface he or she was working with, the user issues a command causing the dashboard to be dismissed. Once the dashboard has been dismissed, the previous user interface state is restored, allowing the user to resume normal interactions with the operating system. |
| US08266532B2 |
Device and method for tagging connecting components
A method tags connecting components. The method comprises capturing an image of a plurality of grid sections. The image of each of the grid sections includes at least one connector disposed therein. The at least one connector has a first end in a first one of the grid sections and a second end in a second one of the grid sections. The method comprises displaying a first virtual identifier in the image of the first grid section for the first end of the connector. The method comprises displaying a second virtual identifier in the image of the second grid section for the second end of the connector. |
| US08266529B2 |
Information processing device and display information editing method of information processing device
An information processing device of an aspect of the invention has display means having a display region; operation means, having a contact region, for outputting a position signal indicating the position of a contact operation in the contact region; range decision means for deciding a target range of the display region based on the position signals for two points from the operation means; processing menu display means for causing the display means to display a processing menu at a position corresponding to the target range of the display region; processing decision means for deciding the processing of the processing menu corresponding to the position of the contact operation in the contact region; and processing execution means for executing the processing on the target range of the display region. |
| US08266506B2 |
Method and apparatus for multiset membership testing using combinatorial bloom filters
A method and apparatus providing improved set membership determination and group membership identification of candidate data elements using a single Bloom filter programmed to provide a plurality of non-zero f-bit binary vectors, where each of the f-bit binary vectors is associated with a respective group. The Bloom filter is programmed using one or more (but not all) of a plurality of hash filter sets. |
| US08266504B2 |
Dynamic monitoring of ability to reassemble streaming data across multiple channels based on history
Mechanisms are provided for processing streaming data at high sustained data rates. These mechanisms receive a plurality of data elements over a plurality of non-sequential communication channels and write the plurality of data elements directly to the file system of the data processing system in an unassembled manner. The mechanisms determining whether to perform a data scrubbing operation or not based on history information indicative of whether data elements in the plurality of data elements are being received in a substantially sequential manner. The mechanisms perform a data scrubbing operation, in response to a determination to perform data scrubbing, to identify any missing data elements in the plurality of data elements written to the file system and assemble the plurality of data elements into a plurality of data streams in response to results of the data scrubbing indicating that there are no missing data elements. |
| US08266503B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for using multi-level cell storage in a single-level cell mode
A controller is used for an electronic memory device which has multi-level cell (MLC) memory elements. Each MLC memory element is capable of storing at least two bits. The controller includes a physical interface to couple the controller to the electronic memory device. The controller also includes a processing unit coupled to the physical interface. The processing unit operates the electronic memory device in a single-level cell (SLC) mode using a restricted number of programming states for a single data bit. The restricted number of programming states includes a first state which is an erase state. The restricted number of programming states also includes a second state, other than the erase state, which is closest to a natural threshold voltage of the MLC memory elements. |
| US08266498B2 |
Implementation of multiple error detection schemes for a cache
A cache includes a plurality of cache lines, where each cache line includes a detection type field, corresponding cache data field, a detection field, and a corresponding tag field. The detection type field indicates an error detection scheme from a plurality of error detection schemes currently in use for the corresponding cache data field. One example of an error detection scheme is a multiple bit error detection scheme (e.g. an error detection coding (EDC) or an error correction coding (ECC)). Another type is a single bit error detection scheme (e.g. parity error detection). The detection bits field stores parity bits if parity error detection is used. The detection bits field stores checking bits if EDC coding is used. |
| US08266497B1 |
Manufacturing testing for LDPC codes
A technique for tested is disclosed herein. A low-density parity-check (LDPC) code is received. For the received LDPC code, an error rate function is generated that is a function of a number of iterations. A number of test iterations and a passing error rate are determined using the error rate function. One or more storage media are tested using the LDPC code, the number of test iterations, and the passing error rate. |
| US08266496B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for managing data using a data pipeline
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing data in a solid-state storage device. A solid-state storage and solid-state controller are included. The solid-state storage controller includes a write data pipeline and a read data pipeline The write data pipeline includes a packetizer and an ECC generator. The packetizer receives a data segment and creates one or more data packets sized for the solid-state storage. The ECC generator generates one or more error-correcting codes (“ECC”) for the data packets received from the packetizer. The read data pipeline includes an ECC correction module, a depacketizer, and an alignment module. The ECC correction module reads a data packet from solid-state storage, determines if a data error exists using corresponding ECC and corrects errors. The depacketizer checks and removes one or more packet headers. The alignment module removes unwanted data, and re-formats the data as data segments of an object. |
| US08266494B2 |
Bus with error correction circuitry
A data bus including a plurality of logic blocks coupled in series, each logic block including at least one buffer for buffering at least one data bit transmitted via the data bus and at least one of the logic blocks further including circuitry coupled in parallel with the at least one buffer and arranged to determine a first bit of error correction code associated with the at least one data bit. |
| US08266492B2 |
FEC transmission processing apparatus and method and program recording medium
There is provided with an FEC transmission processing apparatus including: a media packet acquiring unit configured to successively acquire media packets from a media packet generator; a media packet transmission unit configured to transmit the media packets acquired to a media packet reception processing apparatus; an FEC packet generation unit configured to generate a plurality of FEC packets for the media packet reception processing apparatus to recover a lost media packet by carrying out FEC calculation processing using media packets acquired within a predetermined FEC period from acquisition of a first acquired media packet after media packets subjected to the FEC calculation processing immediately before; and an FEC packet transmission unit configured to transmit the FEC packets to the media packet reception processing apparatus within the predetermined FEC period after a lapse of the predetermined FEC period from the acquisition of the first acquired media packet. |
| US08266491B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling a hybrid automatic repeat request operation in a wireless mobile communication system
An apparatus and method for controlling a Hybrid Automatic Repeat reQuest (HARQ) operation in a transmitter of a wireless mobile communication system using each frame constituted by a plurality of subframes are provided. In the method for controlling an HARQ operation, indication information indicating a subframe position where transmission of a data burst starts and the number of subframes required for transmission of the data burst is transmitted to a receiver through an i-th frame. When the number of subframes does not exceed a threshold, it is determined that the data burst at the subframe position indicated by indication information of an (i+1)-th frame is retransmitted to the receiver. When the number of subframes exceeds the threshold, it is determined that the data burst at the subframe position indicated by indication information of an (i+n)-th frame, where n is a positive integer exceeding 1, is retransmitted to the receiver. |
| US08266490B2 |
Apparatus and method for reverse link transmission in an access terminal
A method for providing improved reverse link transmission timing in an access terminal is provided. The method includes processing automatic repeat request (ARQ) bits from a MAC bit processing unit for a previous sub-frame. The ARQ bits comprise a hybrid ARQ (H-ARQ) bit, a last ARQ (L-ARQ) bit, and a packet ARQ (P-ARQ) bit. The method also includes calculating the maximum allowed reverse rate and grant size for a MAC flow. The method further includes distributing grants to each application in the MAC flow. The method also includes storing a stored read pointer in an application transmit queue, for each application in the MAC flow. The method also includes preparing data for transmission, in response to storing the stored read pointer for each application in the MAC flow, based on the ARQ bits. The method also includes transmitting the data. |
| US08266486B2 |
Preventing erroneous operation in a system which may enable unsupported features
This invention is a method of operating a system having multiple finite state machines and a controller controlling an operational state of each finite state machine. Upon selection by the controller of a changed operational state, each finite state machine determines if it supports the changed operational state. If the finite state machine supports the changed operational state, it enters the changed operational state. If the finite state machine does not support the changed operational state, it enters an offline state. The controller may also determine whether a changed operational state is supported by each finite state machine. |
| US08266484B1 |
Circuits, architectures, apparatuses, systems, methods, algorithms, software and firmware for using reserved cells to indicate defect positions
A system including a plurality of data storage cells, where each of the plurality of data storage cells is configured to store a plurality of data bits, and a plurality of reserved cells configured to store status information of one or more of the plurality of data storage cells. Each of the plurality of reserved cells includes a multi-bit cell configured to store the status information at a lower density than each of the data storage cells. |
| US08266481B2 |
System and method of wear-leveling in flash storage
A flash storage device tracks performs wear-leveling by tracking data errors that occur when dynamic data is read from a storage block of the flash storage device and moving the dynamic data to an available storage block of the flash storage device. Additionally, the flash storage device identifies a storage block containing static data and moves the static data to the storage block previously containing the dynamic data. |
| US08266480B2 |
Physical coding sublayer for a multi-pair gigabit transceiver
A physical coding sublayer (PCS) transmitter circuit generates a plurality of encoded symbols according to a transmission standard. A symbol skewer skews the plurality of encoded symbols within a symbol clock time. A physical coding sublayer (PCS) receiver core circuit decodes a plurality of symbols based on encoding parameters. The symbols are transmitted using the encoding parameters according to a transmission standard. The received symbols are skewed within a symbol clock time by respective skew intervals. A PCS receiver encoder generator generates the encoding parameters. |
| US08266473B2 |
Disaster recovery architecture
A method and system for disaster recovery in a packet-based network. The network includes a production site and a recovery site coupled together by the packet-based network. Mirroring software on the production site keeps a recovery site up to date to the last transaction occurring on the production site. A recovery control server polls the production site in order to detect a disaster condition or other failure. Upon detection of a problem at the production site, the recovery control server reconfigures the network so those attempts to access the production site are routed to the recovery site. |
| US08266472B2 |
Method and system to provide high availability of shared data
A data storage system and method are described. The system may comprise a data repository to store data, and first and second storage controllers. The first and second storage controllers may be connected via at least one network device to the data repository. One or more clients may be connected to the first storage controller and to the second storage controller to access the data in the data repository via the first and second storage controllers. The second storage controller may be configured to at least partially inhibit network connectivity of the first storage controller if the first storage controller at least partially fails. The system may include a Storage Area Network providing the data repository, each of the first and second storage controllers being connected to the Storage Area Network via switch. Each switch comprises at least one fiber channel gateway and at least two Target Channel Adaptors. |
| US08266469B2 |
Clock controlling apparatus of computer system and applications thereof
A clock controlling apparatus of a computer system used to tuning a clock frequency of a specific electronic device disposed on a motherboard and the application thereof are disclosed, wherein the clock controlling apparatus comprises an input control unit used to output a frequency increasing signal or a frequency decreasing signal, a control circuit connected to a clock generator disposed on the motherboard in order to tune the clock frequency of the electronic device according to the frequency increasing signal or the frequency decreasing signal, and a displaying unit connected to the control circuit in order to show the clock frequency. |
| US08266468B2 |
Integrated circuit with interpolation to avoid harmonic interference
An integrated circuit (IC) includes a clock circuit, a processing module, and processing circuitry. The clock circuit is coupled to produce a digital clock signal. The processing module is coupled to determine whether a harmonic component of the digital clock signal having a nominal digital clock rate is within the frequency passband and to provide an indication to the clock circuit to adjust its rate from the nominal digital clock rate to an adjusted digital clock rate when the harmonic component of the digital clock signal is within the frequency passband. The processing circuitry is coupled to process, at the adjusted digital clock rate, the data to produce processed data having a rate corresponding to the nominal digital clock rate and to interpolate, at an interpolation rate, the processed data to produce interpolated processed data having a rate corresponding to the interpolation rate. |
| US08266467B2 |
Data transfer device and data transfer method
To provide inter-LSI data synchronized transfer with a transfer throughput satisfying a required performance without causing an operation timing difference of the entire system even when a wiring delay between LSIs varies on an evaluation board and an actual device. A master (LSI1) outputs transfer data and a transfer synchronization clock signal to a slave (LSI2). For the edge of a clock signal used for data output at the master (LSI1), the slave (LSI2) latches input data by using a reverse edge. Moreover, upon data transfer from the slave (LSI2) to the master (LSI1), the master (LSI1) selects a latch timing of input data from a plurality of timings so that the transfer time to an internal circuit of the master (LSI1) side is identical regardless of which latch timing is selected. |
| US08266466B2 |
Globally synchronized timestamp value counter
The present invention relates to a synchronized timestamp mechanism in a packet processing system. This synchronized timestamp mechanism provides a globally synchronized counter value so counters located on separate packet processing cards can be synchronized. The synchronizing of these packet processing cards provides tracking of how long it takes for packets to be processed, provides the ability to generate packet headers that include sequence numbers for robust header compression, and allows the use of encryption protocols without a time reference signal. The synchronization is provided by sending the cards with counter value information and this information can be used to update the card's internal counter value information so that the card is synchronized with other cards. |
| US08266465B2 |
System for conserving battery life in a battery operated device
A battery operated device includes a receiver for receiving a transmission that includes a postamble. A sensor, in a tire, measures a parameter of the tire and outputs data indicative of the parameter. A microprocessor is coupled to the receiver and the sensor. The microprocessor is configured to periodically partially awaken to determine whether the transmission is likely a forward link packet (FLP) by examining the postamble, and to transmit the data in a reverse link packet (RLP) in response to confirming that the transmission is a FLP. |
| US08266464B2 |
Power controller, a method of operating the power controller and a semiconductor memory system employing the same
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a power controller, a method of operating a power controller and a semiconductor memory system. In one embodiment, the power controller is for use with a memory and includes an access module configured to provide an active state of the memory to allow memory access. The power controller also includes a retain-till-access module configured to cycle a portion of the memory between the active state and a low leakage data retention state of the memory. The power controller further includes an expanded retain-till-access module configured to extend the active state of the memory for a specified period of time before returning the memory to the low leakage data retention state. |
| US08266463B2 |
Negotiating power between power sourcing equipment and powerable devices
The present invention provides a power negotiation protocol that enables PDs and PSEs to negotiate the amount of inline power that a PD consumes and the corresponding PSE provides. This power negotiation allows the PDs provide fine-grained power consumption level to PSEs, and the PSEs are able to manage inline power efficiently using the negotiation protocol of the present invention. The PDs can ask the PSEs for more power when needed rather than having to constantly reserve the maximum amount of power they can consume at all times. Similarly, the PDs can release reservation of excess power when their respective power requirements decrease. The PSEs can limit the amount of power that can be consumed by the PD, thereby providing the ability for an administrator to control how much power a given PD can consume. |
| US08266461B2 |
Computer system with a fan and a temperature monitoring unit
A computer system includes a processor and a fan operative to provide cooling airflow for reducing a temperature of the processor, the fan having a temperature threshold corresponding to operation of the fan at a speed greater than low speed. The computer system also includes a temperature-monitoring unit selectively operative in one of a reduced-acoustic mode and a normal-acoustic mode such that in the normal-acoustic mode, the temperature-monitoring unit attempts to control the temperature of the computer system by adjusting the speed of the fan and in the reduced-acoustic mode, the temperature-monitoring unit attempts to control the temperature of the computer system by throttling the processor. |
| US08266455B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling power of fixing unit
An apparatus and method for controlling power of a fixing unit is provided. The apparatus includes a power supply unit supplying DC power to the fixing unit, and a power controller controlling the power supply unit to gradually increase a DC power supply time until a pre-set time is reached. Accordingly, a flicker characteristic can be reduced by gradually increasing a supply time of DC power to the fixing unit. |
| US08266452B2 |
System and method for communicating confidential messages
A method of recording messages includes recording audio data in a first file structured in accordance with a file format that defines a first portion and a second portion. The audio data is recorded in the first portion of the first file. The method also includes encrypting the audio data stored in the first portion of the first file and generating a second file structured according to the file format. The second file includes decoy audio data in the first portion of the second file and the encrypted audio data in the second portion of the second file. The decoy audio data indicates a confidential status of the second file or serves as a red herring to distract from the encrypted audio data in the second portion of the second file. |
| US08266446B2 |
Software protection against fault attacks
A method for protecting information in a device includes providing a device with a non-secure hardware domain, a processor having a software-controlled mode of operation, and a secure hardware domain having a secure memory that is inaccessible by the processor when the processor is operating in the software-controlled mode of operation. Data from the non-secure hardware domain is established in the secure hardware domain. Computing operations are executed on the data in the secure hardware domain to produce a result. The secure hardware domain is purged, while retaining the result therein. The result is thereafter returned from the secure hardware domain into the non-secure hardware domain. |
| US08266443B2 |
Systems and methods for secure and authentic electronic collaboration
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for secure and authentic electronic collaboration between a plurality of users using a combination of biometric security, a separate and secure network infrastructure, management processes, encrypted electronic storage, and collaborative templates. In an exemplary embodiment, an online collaboration system includes a server including a network interface connected to the Internet, a data store including electronic data storage, and a processor, wherein each of the network interface, the data store and the processor are communicatively coupled, and wherein the network interface, the data store and the processor are collectively configured to: biometrically authenticate a plurality of users; and enable online collaboration between the plurality of users. |
| US08266442B2 |
Remote entry system
A system (100) is disclosed for providing secure access to a controlled item (111), the system comprising a database (105) of biometric signatures, a transmitter subsystem (116) comprising a biometric sensor (121) for receiving a biometric signal (102), means for matching the biometric signal against members of the database of biometric signatures (105) to thereby output an accessibility attribute, and means (107) for emitting a secure access signal (106) conveying information dependent upon said accessibility attribute, wherein the secure access signal (108) comprises one of at least a rolling code, an encrypted Bluetooth™ protocol, and a WiFi™ protocol, and a receiver sub-system (117) comprising means (109) for receiving the transmitted secure access signal (108) and means for providing conditional access to the controlled item (111) dependent upon said information. |
| US08266430B1 |
Selective shredding in a deduplication system
Making a target file impratical to be retrieved comprises decrypting a directory manager file using a first directory manager file key. The directory manager file includes an encryption key for a segment that is used when reconstructing a target file. The directory manager file is modified by deleting a reference to the target file. The reference includes a file encryption key. Retrieving the target file is made impractical by the deletion of the reference to the target file in the directory manager file. The modified directory manager file is encrypted using a second directory manager file key. |
| US08266427B2 |
Secure mobile IPv6 registration
In one embodiment, a method comprises receiving by an agent a request from a network node for generation of a secure IPv6 address for use by the network node, the request including a selected subset of parameters selected by the network node and required for generation of the secure IPv6 address according to a prescribed secure address generation procedure, the selected subset including at least a public key owned by the network node; dynamically generating by the agent at least a second of the parameters required for generation of the secure IPv6 address; generating by the agent the secure IPv6 address based on the selected subset and the second of the parameters required for generation of the secure IPv6 address; and outputting, to the network node, an acknowledgment to the request and that includes the secure IPv6 address, and the parameters required for generation of the secure IPv6 address. |
| US08266424B2 |
Method and system for in-field recovery of security when a certificate authority has been compromised
A certificate credential is generated based on a user device's private key securely stored, or accessible, by a certificate authority. When the certificate authority has been compromised, the credential, which typically includes information encrypted with the device's private key and the corresponding unencrypted information, is sent to the device. The device receives the information in encrypted and unencrypted form and decrypts the encrypted information. If the result of the decryption matches the unencrypted information, the device trusts the signer of the credential. |
| US08266422B2 |
Network security processing method and system for selecting one of software and hardware cryptographic modules by means of multimedia session information
In a network security processing method and system for selecting one of software and hardware cryptographic modules by means of multimedia session information, the method includes the following steps: subjecting a plurality of packets of a multimedia session to signaling processing so as to obtain multimedia session information contained in the multimedia session, subjecting the multimedia session to a key authentication negotiation and according to the multimedia session information, making a determination to activate one of the software cryptographic module and the hardware cryptographic module. If the hardware cryptographic module is activated, the hardware cryptographic module performs network security processing of the packets of the multimedia session. If the software cryptographic module is activated, the software cryptographic module performs the network security processing of the packets of the multimedia session. |
| US08266420B2 |
System and method for providing secure configuration file provisioning
A system and method for providing secure configuration file exchange is disclosed. The system may include a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) device having a receiver and a processor, and the VoIP device may be configured to: receive, at the receiver, an encrypted first configuration file from a server using a default Uniform Resource Locator (URL) stored in the VoIP device; decrypt, at the processor, the first configuration file using a default key stored in the VoIP device; apply, at the processor, a first set of profile parameters stored in the first configuration file, and the step of applying may include updating the default URL and the default key in the VoIP device with a new URL and a new key stored in the first configuration file; receive, at the receiver, an encrypted second configuration file from the server using the new URL; decrypt, at the processor, the second configuration file using the new key; and apply, at the processor, a second set of profile parameters stored in the second configuration file in order to provide network service from the server to a customer premise equipment (CPE) communicatively coupled to the VoIP device. |
| US08266415B2 |
Electronic device board level security
A system may include a printed circuit board, a first component located on the printed circuit board, the first component having a first unique identifier and a processor located on the printed circuit board, the processor including a one time programming section. The processor may acquire the first unique identifier from the first component and store the first unique identifier in the one time programming section during the first time initialization. Upon subsequent initializations, the processor may acquire the first unique identifier from the first component and compare the first unique identifier to the stored first unique identifier. The processor may allow the subsequent initializations to proceed if the first unique identifier matches the stored first unique. The processor may disallow the subsequent initializations from proceeding if the first unique identifier does not match the stored first unique identifier. |
| US08266414B2 |
Method for executing an instruction loop and a device having instruction loop execution capabilities
A method for managing a hardware instruction loop, the method includes: (i) detecting, by a branch prediction unit, an instruction loop; wherein a size of the instruction loop exceeds a size of a storage space allocated in a fetch unit for storing fetched instructions; (ii) requesting from the fetch unit to fetch instructions of the instruction loop that follow the first instructions of the instruction loop; and (iii) selecting, during iterations of the instruction loop, whether to provide to a dispatch unit one of the first instructions of the instruction loop or another instruction that is fetched by the fetch unit; wherein the first instructions of the instruction loop are stored at the dispatch unit. |
| US08266410B2 |
Meta-architecture defined programmable instruction fetch functions supporting assembled variable length instruction processors
In an implementation, a processing system includes an instruction fetch (IF) memory storing IF instructions; an arithmetic/logic (AL) instruction memory (IMemory) storing instructions; and a programmable instruction fetch mechanism to generate IMemory instruction addresses, from IF instructions fetched from the IF memory, to select instructions to be fetched from the IMemory for execution, wherein at least one IF instruction includes a loop count field indicating a number of iterations of a loop to be performed, a loop start address of the loop, and a loop end address of the loop. |
| US08266408B2 |
System and method for storing data in a virtualized high speed memory system
A system and method for providing high-speed memory operations is disclosed. The technique uses virtualization of memory space to map a virtual address space to a larger physical address space wherein no memory bank conflicts will occur. The larger physical address space is used to prevent memory bank conflicts from occurring by moving the virtualized memory addresses of data being written to memory to a different location in physical memory that will eliminate a memory bank conflict. |
| US08266407B2 |
Writing to asymmetric memory
A memory controller writes to a virtual address associated with data residing within an asymmetric memory component of main memory that is within a computer system and that has a symmetric memory component, while preserving proximate other data residing within the asymmetric memory component. The symmetric memory component within the main memory of the computer system is configured to enable random access write operations in which an address within a block of the symmetric memory component is written without affecting the availability of other addresses within the block of the symmetric memory component during the writing of that address. The asymmetric memory component is configured to enable block write operations in which writing to an address within a region of the asymmetric memory component affects the availability of other addresses within the region of the asymmetric memory component during the block write operations involving the address. |
| US08266405B2 |
Memory interface configurable for asynchronous and synchronous operation and for accessing storage from any clock domain
An improved memory interface circuit is provided for accessing a storage array in one of two available modes, including a synchronous mode and an asynchronous mode. The improved memory interface circuit also includes logic, which enables the storage array to reside within substantially any clock domain. |
| US08266404B2 |
Generating and using checkpoints in a virtual computer system
To generate a checkpoint for a virtual machine (VM), first, while the VM is still running, a copy-on-write (COW) disk file is created pointing to a parent disk file that the VM is using. Next, the VM is stopped, the VM's memory is marked COW, the device state of the VM is saved to memory, the VM is switched to use the COW disk file, and the VM begins running again for substantially the remainder of the checkpoint generation. Next, the device state that was stored in memory and the unmodified VM memory pages are saved to a checkpoint file. Also, a copy may be made of the parent disk file for retention as part of the checkpoint, or the original parent disk file may be retained as part of the checkpoint. If a copy of the parent disk file was made, then the COW disk file may be committed to the original parent disk file. |
| US08266403B2 |
Storage system, unauthorized access detection method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium storing unauthorized access detection program
An access instruction portion that sends an access instruction to the storage apparatus in response to being accessed from the terminal; and an access management portion that sends a confirmation notification to the access instruction portion in response to receiving the access instruction, wherein the access instruction portion comprises: an access instruction distinction step of determining whether or not the sender of the access instruction related to that confirmation notification is the access instruction portion; and an unauthorized access instruction detection portion that determines, on the basis of determination result made by the access instruction distinction portion, the access instruction received by the access management portion from a sender other than the access instruction portion as an unauthorized access instruction. |
| US08266401B2 |
Storage controller and data management method
Upon receiving a primary/secondary switching command from a secondary host system, a secondary storage control device interrogates a primary storage control device as to whether or not yet to be transferred data that has not been remote copied from the primary storage control device to the secondary storage control device is present. In the event that yet to be transferred data is present, the secondary storage control device receives yet to be transferred data from the primary storage control device and updates a secondary volume. The primary storage control device then manages positions of updates to the primary volume due to host accesses to the primary volume occurring at the time of the secondary storage control device receiving the primary/secondary switching command onwards using a differential bitmap table. |
| US08266400B2 |
Computer system remote copying system and computer system
When a virtual tape of the main storage system is updated, journal data is created. The journal data is transmitted to the disaster recovery storage system asynchronously with the timing at which the write data is received. The journal data includes a marker to notify of the start of updating and a marker to notify of the completion of updating. The disaster recovery storage system prohibits the use of the copy destination data during the period from start of updating until completion of updating, and permits referencing the copy destination data during other periods. |
| US08266395B2 |
Detecting attempts to change memory
A system and method for detecting changes of memory state. In accordance with one embodiment, memory locations to be observed are determined, and pages of these locations are marked as read-only. Then, guest instructions execute during a trial period. During the trial period, guest instructions attempting to write to the identified memory locations cause page faults which result in identifying the instructions. At the end of the trial period, the pages are returned to a writable status, and attempts to modify the memory locations by the guest code are detected based on the instruction identifier. The system and method can be used for efficient frame list topology monitoring, such as in a virtual USB controller of a virtual machine. |
| US08266390B2 |
System and method for providing one-time programmable memory with fault tolerance
Systems and methods that provide a one-time programmable (OTP) memory with fault tolerance are provided. In one example, the OTM memory may include a data portion and a multistage programming (MSP) portion. The data of the data portion may be protected by error coding. The MSP portion may include at least one MSP bit and at least one respective redundant MSP bit. |
| US08266386B2 |
Structure for maintaining memory data integrity in a processor integrated circuit using cache coherency protocols
A design structure for a processor system may be embodied in a machine readable medium for designing, manufacturing or testing a processor integrated circuit. The design structure may embody a processor integrated circuit including multiple processors with respective processor cache memories. The design structure may specify enhanced cache coherency protocols to achieve cache memory integrity in a multi-processor environment. The design structure may describe a processor bus controller manages cache coherency bus interfaces to master devices and slave devices. The design structure may also describe a master I/O device controller and a slave I/O device controller that couple directly to the processor bus controller while system memory couples to the processor bus controller via a memory controller. In one embodiment, the design structure may specify that the processor bus controller blocks partial responses that it receives from all devices except the slave I/O device from being included in a combined response that the processor bus controller sends over the cache coherency buses. |
| US08266382B1 |
Cache interface protocol including arbitration and hints
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for arbitrating requests received from one of the multiple clients of an L1 cache and for providing hints to the client to assist in arbitration. The L1 cache services multiple clients with diverse latency and bandwidth requirements and may be reconfigured to provide memory spaces for clients executing multiple parallel threads, where the memory spaces each have a different scope. |
| US08266377B2 |
Computer system and control method for the computer system
A computer system including a first storage system connected to a first host computer, a second storage system connected to a second host computer and a third storage system connected to the first and second storage systems. The second storage system sets transfer setting before an occurrence of a failure, the transfer setting being provided with a dedicated storage area to be used for transferring data to the third storage system by asynchronous copy in response to a failure at the first host computer. Before the start of data transfer between the second storage system and third storage system to be executed after an occurrence of the failure, the second storage system checks the dedicated storage area, data transfer line and transfer setting information, and if an abnormal state is detected, this abnormal state is reported to the host computer as information attached to the transfer setting. |
| US08266376B2 |
Clustered storage network
A data storage network is provided. The network includes a client connected to the data storage network; a plurality nodes on the data storage network, wherein each data node has two or more RAID controllers, wherein a first RAID controller of a first node is configured to receive a data storage request from the client and to generate RAID parity data on a data set received from the client, and to store all of the generated RAID parity data on a single node of the plurality of nodes. |
| US08266371B2 |
Non-volatile storage device, host device, non-volatile storage system, data recording method, and program
A memory controller, a non-volatile storage device, a host device, and a non-volatile storage system capable of performing real-time recording even in the case where normal data and file management information/auxiliary information are written in alternating manner are provided. The host device (2) issues a memory management command before the start, after the end, or both before and after the start and end of real-time recording. When the non-volatile storage device (1) receives the memory management command, an internal memory controller (11) clears memory control information and performs garbage collection as necessary. |
| US08266369B2 |
Flash memory interface
Flash-type memory access and control is facilitated (e.g., as random-access memory). According to an example embodiment, an interface communicates with and controls a flash memory circuit over a peripheral interface bus. The interface uses a FIFO buffer coupled to receive data from and store data for the flash memory circuit and to provide access to the stored data. An interface controller communicates with the flash memory circuit via the peripheral interface bus to initialize the flash memory circuit and to access data thereto, in response to requests from a processor. In some applications, the flash memory circuit is initialized by sending commands to it. The interface may be placed into a read-only mode in which data in the flash memory is accessed as part of main (computer) processor memory, using the FIFO to buffer data from the flash. |
| US08266365B2 |
Ruggedized memory device
A non-volatile storage device with built-in ruggedized features is disclosed. The device processes a write command to a logical block address by writing the data from the command to a non-volatile memory within the non-volatile storage device and conditionally associating the data received from the command with its corresponding logical block address. Two or more received write commands define a set of commands associated with an atomic transaction. When an end of set command is received, the device unconditionally associates the received data with each write command with its corresponding logical block address. If a power loss interrupts the reception of a set of commands, the non-volatile storage device may recover the last consistent data state before the atomic transaction was started. A write command transaction identifier allows the device to associate the command with a thread of commands that define an atomic transaction in a multithreaded system. |
| US08266361B1 |
Access methods and circuits for devices having multiple buffers
An integrated circuit device may include a mask register that stores mask values writable from a processor interface; and mask logic that selectively masks status indications from each of a plurality of buffers according to stored mask values; wherein the buffers alter the status indications in response to accesses from at least one different interface other than the processor interface. |
| US08266357B2 |
System and method for provisioning a remote resource for an electronic device
The disclosure recites a system and method for updating a resource to an electronic device. The system comprises: a resource providing information for the device; a server to maintain the resource; a communication link providing the device with access to the resource; a data transmission module for extracting and transmitting access information about the resource to the device; and a data processing module for processing the received information at the device. In the device, a GUI provides information on a topic retrieved from local storage on the device and additional information about the resource is incorporated into the GUI for that topic. |
| US08266349B2 |
Systems and methods for selecting parameters used in a portable patient monitor
A patient monitoring system includes a patient monitor and a plurality of docking stations. Each docking station is associated with a set of patient monitor configurations. Interfacing the patient monitor with a particular docking station allows a user to select one or more of the set of patient monitor configurations associated with the particular docking station for use in the patient monitor. |
| US08266348B2 |
System and method of communicating with portable devices
At least one aspect of the invention is directed to a communications adapter for coupling between a power adapter and a laptop computer. The communications adapter includes a first connector adapted to couple to the power adapter to receive DC power, and a second connector adapted to couple to a laptop computer. The communications adapter further includes a communications circuit constructed and arranged to receive signals from the laptop computer through the second connector and to provide signals to the laptop computer in response. |
| US08266342B1 |
Storage system
A storage system of an embodiment of this invention comprises a first transfer engine, a second transfer engine, a first storage device, a second storage device, a processor, and a transfer sequencer which is a device different from the processor. The processor creates transfer sequence information for indicating a sequence of transfers of user data. The transfer sequencer receives the transfer sequence information made by the processor and controls the first and the second transfer engines in accordance with the transfer sequence information. The first and the second transfer engines transfer user data between storage devices in accordance with instructions from the transfer sequencer. |
| US08266337B2 |
Dynamic logical data channel assignment using channel bitmap
A method, system and program are provided for dynamically allocating DMA channel identifiers by virtualizing DMA transfer requests into available DMA channel identifiers using a channel bitmap listing of available DMA channels to select and set an allocated DMA channel identifier. Once an input value associated with the DMA transfer request is mapped to the selected DMA channel identifier, the DMA transfer is performed using the selected DMA channel identifier, which is then deallocated in the channel bitmap upon completion of the DMA transfer. When there is a request to wait for completion of the data transfer, the same input value is used with the mapping to wait on the appropriate logical channel. With this method, all available logical channels can be utilized with reduced instances of false-sharing. |
| US08266332B2 |
Image capturing transfer apparatus that sends a flash on/off parameter instruction for a flash unit connected to the image capturing apparatus
An information processing apparatus that can communicate with an external apparatus includes an instruction unit configured to receive an instruction to change a parameter in the external apparatus, and a sending unit configured to send a control signal for causing the external apparatus to change the parameter in the external apparatus, to the external apparatus according to the instruction received by the instruction unit, in which the sending unit sends, when the instruction received by the instruction unit includes an instruction to change a plurality of types of parameters in the external apparatus, the control signal a plural number of times according to the types of the parameters to be changed, to cause the external apparatus to change the parameters in a predetermined order. |
| US08266329B2 |
Apparatus and method for accessing command line interface information from a device
A method and apparatus for accessing information from a network device, said device being managed through a command line interface, said method comprising storing information regarding operation of the device in a hierarchical structure in a memory within the device, searching for a command line management feature or configuration by passing a search command to the device and then passing a command relating to the feature name or configuration to the device, whereby the device then searches through the hierarchical data structure for the feature name or configuration in which the search command is provided in the first layer of the hierarchical structure in the memory and the feature name or configuration is provided in the second layer of the hierarchical structure in the memory within the device. |
| US08266327B2 |
Identity brokering in a network element
A network infrastructure element such as a router or switch performs brokering network user identity and credential information. An application or administrative user can declare a policy for user identity information extraction, authentication and authorization. Based on the policy, the network element extracts user identity information or credentials from a transport-layer message header, application-layer message header, and message body. Based on the policy, the network element performs one or more authentication or authorization operations with the user identity information or credentials. As a result, a network element can broker identity information among incompatible applications and perform identity operations for the applications. |
| US08266325B2 |
Compression on thin provisioned volumes using extent based mapping
A set of logical extents, each having compressed logical tracks of data, is mapped to a head physical extent and, if the head physical extent is determined to have been filled, to at least one overflow extent having spatial proximity to the head physical extent. Pursuant to at least one subsequent write operation and destage operation, the at least one subsequent write operation and destage operation determined to be associated with the head physical extent, the write operation is mapped to one of the head physical extent, the at least one overflow extent, and an additional extent having spatial proximity to the at least one overflow extent. |
| US08266319B2 |
Load balancing
A network management system, device and method for managing a computer network. The device is connected to the Internet through a plurality of routes, wherein the plurality of routes are assigned with respective IP addresses. The device includes a controller receiving a DNS resolution query from a remote computer for a domain name within the computer network, selecting one of the plurality of routes connecting the device to the Internet, and responding to the DNS resolution query with an IP address associated with the selected route. The IP address is used for resolution of the domain name. |
| US08266315B2 |
Streaming content from a production node and a consumer node
Systems and methods are disclosed for streaming content over a network that enables communication between a first consumer node, a second consumer node, and a production node. In one embodiment, a method includes initiating, from the first consumer node, a first connection to the second consumer node, and receiving one or more data packages corresponding to part of the content. The method also includes initiating, from the first consumer node, a second connection over the network to a production node, and receiving one or more data packages corresponding to at least a part of the content. The method also includes making incoming content received from the second consumer node ready for processing and play-back at the first consumer node, so that part of the content is streamed to a stream target at the first consumer node, while another part of the content is being received from the production node. |
| US08266310B2 |
Enabling peer-to-peer content retrieval in HTTP
Described are embodiments directed to enabling the retrieval of content from a peer-to-peer network. In embodiments, a client requesting content from a server can indicate in an HTTP request that it is capable of retrieving content from a peer-to-peer network. When the server receives the HTTP request it will recognize the indication that the client is capable of retrieving content from a peer-to-peer network and may send content information instead of sending the requested content. The content information allows the client to retrieve the content from the peer-to-peer network. |
| US08266306B2 |
Systems and methods for delegating access to online accounts
Computer-implemented methods for delegating access to online accounts and for facilitating delegates' access to these online accounts are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for delegating access to an online account comprises receiving a request to delegate access to a first online account to a first delegate, identifying the first online account, identifying a contact record for the first delegate, and delegating access to the first online account to the first delegate by associating the contact record for the first delegate with the first online account. Corresponding systems and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08266303B2 |
Managing network connections
Connections for sources to connect to a network are managed by storing connection profiles identifying network attributes for the connections. Each connection profile includes a status of available or subscribed. Requests for connections are received. If a stored connection profile is available that matches the request, the connection for the matching connection profile is assigned to the source. |
| US08266301B2 |
Deployment of asynchronous agentless agent functionality in clustered environments
A mechanism for the deployment of asynchronous agentless agent functionality in clustered environments. An agentless agent execution node in an agentless agent execution node cluster receives a context message comprising an asynchronous operation request and an execution context from a messaging service. The agent node determines if an entry for the execution context exists in an execution context state table of the agent node. If no entry exists, the agent node creates an execution context entry in the execution context state table of the agent node. The agent node retrieves an asynchronous code module associated with the asynchronous operation from a central repository. The asynchronous code module is then executed on a managed resource to detect asynchronous code events occurring on the managed resource. When asynchronous code events are detected at the managed resource, the agent node sends a message comprising the asynchronous code events to a management server. |
| US08266300B2 |
System and method for plug and play between host and client
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for plug and play between a host and client. The system includes a client device configured to be communicatively connected to a host device, the client device including at least a portion of memory configured to store computer code for allowing the host device to identify and control the client device. Additionally, the client device is configured such that the host device is not required to have pre-installed the computer code for allowing the host device to identify and control the client device, prior to being communicatively connected to the client device, and the client device is further configured such that when the client device is communicatively connected to the host device, the client device is configured to transfer the computer code for allowing the host device to identify and control the client device to the host device for installation. |
| US08266299B2 |
Method for establishing a local media connection in a communication system
The present invention relates to a method for deciding, in an IP-based communication system, whether a local media/media release is allowed between a first and at least a second terminal. The method is characterized in that the decision is based on information established by an application server in an multimedia core network. The present invention further also relates to a session border controller unit, a session border controller, an application server and a computer program product for performing said method. |
| US08266290B2 |
Scalable queues on a scalable structured storage system
A cloud computing platform contains a structured storage subsystem the provides scalable queues. The cloud computing platform monitors message throughput for the scalable queues and automatically increases or decreases subqueues that provide the operational functionality for each scalable queue. A visibility start time and cloud computing platform time are maintained for each message to provide an approximate first-in-first-out order for messages within each subqueue. A message in a subqueue may be available for processing when the current cloud computing time is greater than the visibility start of the message. |
| US08266289B2 |
Concurrent data processing in a distributed system
Systems, methods, and computer media for scheduling vertices in a distributed data processing network and allocating computing resources on a processing node in a distributed data processing network are provided. Vertices, subparts of a data job including both data and computer code that runs on the data, are assigned by a job manager to a distributed cluster of process nodes for processing. The process nodes run the vertices and transmit computing resource usage information, including memory and processing core usage, back to the job manager. The job manager uses this information to estimate computing resource usage information for other vertices in the data job that are either still running or waiting to be run. Using the estimated computing resource usage information, each process node can run multiple vertices concurrently. |
| US08266288B2 |
Dynamic expiration of domain name service entries
Disclosed is a computer implemented method and computer program product for transmitting a resource record to a requesting computer. An authoritative domain name server receives a DNS query from a requesting computer at a name server. The authoritative domain name server looks up the resource record based on the DNS query, wherein the resource record is associated with an epochal time and a time to live. The authoritative domain name server transmits the resource record response based on the epochal time. |
| US08266287B2 |
Managing computer resources in a distributed computing system
Methods, apparatus, and products for managing computer resources in a distributed computing system are disclosed that include registering, in a configuration management database by a discovery module in response to a modification of a resource in a resource container, the resource in association with a configuration management database identifier, the resource characterized by a resource type and a resource identification, the resource container including a manageability endpoint characterized by a manageability endpoint reference; and managing the resource by a management module in dependence upon a resource management policy and the manageability endpoint reference, the resource management policy including management actions for the resource. |
| US08266286B2 |
Dynamic key management server discovery
Various systems and method are disclosed for automatically disseminating key server contact information in a network. For example, one method (e.g., performed by a discovery server) involves generating a discovery message that includes at least one list of one or more key servers and then sending that discovery message to one or more members of a key management protocol group. Each list of key servers can include contact information for one or more key servers and indicate the priority of each key server relative to other key servers within the list. |
| US08266282B2 |
System and method for enforcing advertising policies using digital rights management
A system and method for policy-based advertising. According to an embodiment, an advertisement server receives a request for advertising content from a user computer over a network, the advertising content associated with an advertising policy specifying one or more usage conditions to be met by a user of the user computer in connection with the advertising content in order for the user to qualify for a promotional consideration, provides to the user computer over the network, in response to the request for the advertising content, the advertising content and one or more constraints to be enforced by a content player on the user computer in accordance with the advertising policy, receives from the user computer metering data reflecting usage of the advertising content on the user computer, and determines whether the one or more advertising policy usage conditions have been met based on the received metering data. |
| US08266280B2 |
System and method for a storage area network virtualization optimization
A method is implemented in a computer infrastructure having computer executable code tangibly embodied on a computer readable storage medium having programming instructions. The programming instructions are operable to determine one or more optimal mappings between a server layer and a storage layer through a network layer based on performance metrics of one or more ports of at least one of the server layer, the storage layer and the network layer. |
| US08266277B2 |
Method and system for resource management in a computing environment
A method and system for monitoring resources in a network of resources in a computing environment, is provided. One implementation involves discovering resources in the network; constructing a topology model including event information for each discovered resource; providing queries for polling the models for event information, such that the resources need not be polled; executing one or more queries against one or more models; evaluating the query results to ascertain whether or not an event has affected what is considered to be normal for the result of each query; and presenting the evaluation results to enable monitoring of the resources. |
| US08266275B2 |
Managing network data transfers in a virtual computer system
A method for protecting a virtual computer system which may be susceptible to adverse effects from a Denial of Service attack is described. The virtual computer system includes a plurality of VMs. In the method, data that is transferred between the virtual computer system and the computer network is monitored for an indication of a possible Denial of Service attack. If an indication of a possible Denial of Service attack is detected, one or more of the VMs is suspended, to reduce the risk of adverse effects on one or more other VMs. |
| US08266273B2 |
Realtime process history server
The disclosure relates to a realtime process history server for use in a process control system comprising a process information management system (PIMS) and one or more distributed processing systems (distributed control systems DCS, 14.1 to 14.n). The realtime process history server features a combined PIMS/DCS server and a report server and is set up such that, by means of the report server, both clients and operator workstations of the DCS systems (14.1 to 14.n) have concurrent access under realtime conditions to the PIMS/DCS server and process history data which is stored therein. |
| US08266268B1 |
Method and system for deploying a network monitoring service within a communication network
The present invention provides a method and a system for deploying a network monitoring service within a communication network. In accordance with the present invention, the method identifies the location types within the network and the associated costs of service installation for each location type. The method analyzes the traffic types present at each location type and determines the location type with the lowest cost for the selected traffic type. In another aspect of the invention, various methods to determine network devices to deploy a network monitoring service for the lowest cost are described. |
| US08266265B2 |
Data transmission over a network with channel bonding
A system that transmits data over multiple networks receives data packets at a client node and forms a plurality of data aggregates from the data packets. The system then sends a request for a duplicate transmission to a coordinator node on a first network. In response to the request, the system receives a first transmission slot on the first network and a second transmission slot on a second network for transmission of the data aggregates. The system then splits the data aggregates among the first transmission slot and the second transmission slot and transmits the data aggregates on the first transmission slot and the second transmission slot. |
| US08266264B2 |
Launching service applications using a virtual network management system
A network service administration system including a plurality of service objects, a plurality of address objects; and a service configuration application for a multifunction appliance running on a client computer coupled to the appliance via a network. The service configuration application includes an interface allowing subscribers to configure at least a subset of application content services provided by the appliance and including a rule set implementing rules in ones of said application content services in said subset based on changes to configurations of any other of said application content services. Each of said service objects may comprise an individual network service definition. |
| US08266263B2 |
Distributed preboot execution environment (PXE) server booting
A computer program product and system are disclosed for distributed Preboot eXecution Environment (PXE) server booting. The computer program product may include an image request module configured to send a PXE boot image request to a master boot server; an assignment receiving module configured to receive a temporary PXE server RAM image and a subset of target machines from the master boot server, the temporary PXE server RAM image configured to assign a recipient target machine as a temporary PXE server, the temporary PXE server configured to agent boot the subset of target machines; a subset boot module configured to send each target machine in the subset of target machines an agent boot image; a subset confirmation module configured to receive a boot confirmation from each target machine, the boot confirmation configured to indicate that the target machine booted successfully; a master confirmation module configured to send a subset boot confirmation to the master boot server, the subset boot confirmation configured to indicate that the subset of target machines booted successfully; and an image receiving module configured to receive an agent boot image. |
| US08266261B2 |
Server system, collective server apparatus, and MAC address management method
Provided is a server system, a collective server apparatus, and a MAC address management method that enables to change a MAC address and a flexible assignment of a MAC address. A server system according to the present invention includes a plurality of network control units that control communication performed with another device via a network, an address storage unit that stores a MAC address to be assigned to the network control unit, an assignment change processing unit that changes an assignment of the MAC address stored in the address storage unit and writes in the address storage unit, and an assignment execution unit that specifies the assignment stored in the address storage unit to each of the network control units. |
| US08266259B2 |
Managing user customizations of pre-provisioned contexts
A method, system, and computer-readable medium for seamlessly updating connection parameters that allow a communications device of a host machine to connect to a Wireless Wide Area Network. Users are allowed to edit certain parameters, and these changes are stored in persistent storage along with a unique identifier for the set that was edited. At connection time, the user's edits override the defaults pre-provisioned by the network operator and stored on the device. The operator can also remotely edit the parameters, after which the user's changes are overwritten with the new defaults. Thus, the invention is capable of seamlessly handling updates to the connection parameters by both the user and the network operator. |
| US08266246B1 |
Distributed playback session customization file management
A method, device and/or system for syndicating customization files, which define playback experience for content rendered on media players. The customization files are referenced by links distributed to the media players. Each customization file references a plurality of content objects that are stitched together to create the playback experience. A delivery network is used to distribute the customization files to the media players. Updates to the customization files can be done after distribution of their corresponding links. Usage information for the customization files are reported from the media players. |
| US08266245B1 |
Systems and methods for incremental loading of collaboratively generated presentations
Systems and methods for incrementally communicating a document to a client computer are disclosed herein. Time consistent views of the document are maintained throughout the incremental downloading through use of a cryptographically secured permissions token identifying a version of the document the user is permitted to access. |
| US08266244B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing bookmark information for content stored in a networked media server
A method and apparatus for managing bookmark information of a media server through a network based on the UPnP AV standard is disclosed. If a request for bookmarking a content item is made, a bookmark item is created and the created bookmark item is linked to the content item by adding the ID of the created bookmark item to the property information of the content item and recording the ID of the content item to be bookmarked in the created bookmark item. |
| US08266243B1 |
Feedback mechanisms providing contextual information
Feedback received from users regarding potential problems with an application, service, or other source of electronic content can be configured to include additional information that help triangulate the source of the problem. Content provided by third parties can be combined with content from a primary provider, but the primary provider often will be unable to determine the precise instance of third party content that a user received that might have posed a problem for the user, as may relate to malware or another such issue. By configuring feedback submissions from users to automatically include identifying information, and by logging session data for various users, a content provider can analyze and filter the data to determine likely sources of the problem, and deactivate or otherwise address those sources. Further, the content provider can analyze the information to locate any users likely to have been exposed to the same third party content. |
| US08266241B1 |
Image sharing
A method, apparatus, and system for performing image sharing. A first computer is coupled to an external device capable of acquiring data. A second computer is coupled to the first computer. A direct access to data acquired by the external device is provided to the second computer. |
| US08266237B2 |
Systems and methods for providing distributed, decentralized data storage and retrieval
Systems and methods for distributed, decentralized storage and retrieval of data in an extensible SOAP environment are disclosed. Such systems and methods decentralize not only the bandwidth required for data storage and retrieval, but also the computational requirements. Accordingly, such systems and methods alleviate the need for one node to do all the storage and retrieval processing, and no single node is required to send or receive all the data. |
| US08266231B1 |
Systems and methods for monitoring messaging systems
Systems and methods for monitoring and/or auditing of events in an electronic messaging environment, such as Microsoft® Exchange, are described. One or more monitoring components are installed on messaging system servers to collect, in real-time, information on messaging system events. Certain embodiments are configured to audit and/or provide alerts regarding non-owner activity, such as when a user or administrator has gained access to another user's mailbox. Alerts can advantageously facilitate prompt corrective action by delivering detailed information about the access activity, such as which email message or folder was accessed, when the access occurred, from what location (e.g., IP address) when the access was initiated, and the type of access, as well as permission changes made to the mailbox or folders. The monitoring systems can also be configured to audit changes to client permissions for folders and delegate assignment and/or changes to configuration objects of the messaging system. |
| US08266227B2 |
Method, system and program product for assigning a responder to a requester in a collaborative environment
A method, system and program product for assigning a resource to a client in a collaborative environment. The method includes defining, using a tool, a threshold value for collaborative attributes for each resource responding to one or more clients and calculating on a periodic basis, using the tool, an updated value for the collaborative attributes for each resource. The method further includes comparing, upon receipt of a collaboration request, the updated value with the threshold value defined for collaborative attributes for a first resource and, if the updated value is less than the threshold value for the first resource, connecting the client to the first resource for establishing a collaborative session. If not, repeating comparing the updated value with the threshold value for the collaborative attributes defined for a next resource and connecting the client to the next resource whose updated value is less than the threshold value. |
| US08266225B2 |
Program-sensitive link in content
Context-sensitive content may be created that may be recognized by a particular program but ignored by other programs. For example, in an e-mail message or other type of message, content could be created that advises the user to download a particular client for an enhanced content-viewing experience, along with a link pointing to a site where the client may be downloaded. This content and link could be surrounded by tags that would not be recognized by most clients, but that would be recognized by the client that provides the enhanced experience. Thus, most clients would render the advice and link, but the client that provides the enhanced experience could be configured to omit the link when it recognizes the surrounding tags, since a recipient who is viewing the e-mail with that client already has access to the enhanced experience. |
| US08266224B2 |
Application gateway device
In an embodiment, a data processing system comprises application workflow optimizing logic and which when executed is operable to receive first workflow data that defines a sequence of processing operations to perform on an application-layer message; rewrite the first workflow data by separation of dependent update operations to result in creating rewritten workflow data; and store the rewritten workflow data in a data repository. Application gateway logic may be operable to receive one or more packets; construct a received message from one or more payloads of the packets; classify the received message to identify a particular workflow associated with the message; apply the particular workflow, using the rewritten workflow data, to the received message to result in identifying a destination application server and creating an outgoing message; send the outgoing message to the destination application server. |
| US08266218B2 |
Automated electronic message filing system
At least one filing folder is suggested for filing a particular electronic message. The suggested filing folder is graphically distinguished from the remainder of the folders in the filing system, such that selection of a folder for filing an electronic message is facilitated. A suggested folder name is attached to an electronic message before it is sent. When the electronic message is received and to be filed, the suggested folder is the one bearing the name of the suggested folder name attached to the electronic message. |
| US08266211B2 |
Methods and systems for validating real time network communications
Methods and systems for managing network communications are described. An example resource management system includes a communications manager configured to access information regarding communication protocols used by corresponding broker systems and to provide message translations based on an origin and/or destination of the message to be transmitted. A message processor is coupled to the communications manager and is configured to serialize incoming and/or outgoing broker messages and to facilitate queuing of incoming and outgoing message traffic with broker systems. A communications configurer is configured to track one or more communication attributes of broker systems and changes thereto to ensure communications between the resource management systems are broker systems are conducted in accordance with the communication attributes of the broker systems. A communications rules provider is configured to determine which broker system is to be communicated with in order to fulfill a resource request. |
| US08266210B2 |
Shared feed reader and method of shared feed reading
A shared feed reader for multiple users and a method for sharing feed reading are provided which provide group collaboration features. The shared feed reader includes a server including a processor hosting the shared feed reader for remote access by multiple users, and a user interface for each of the multiple users including an aggregator of web feeds subscribed to by the user. The shared feed reader includes: a mechanism for defining a group of users, wherein web feeds subscribed to by users in the group are exposed to the other users in the group; and a mechanism for sharing a read status of a web feed post across the group, wherein the read status indicates which users have read the post. The shared feed reader may also include a mechanism for receiving a meta-feed of meta-posts, wherein meta-feeds and meta-posts relate to activities of users in the group on shared feeds and posts. |
| US08266209B2 |
Templating and provisioning of collaborative facilities for a data-agnostic collaboration service
Various embodiments herein include one or more of systems, methods, software, and/or data structures to create collaboration enabled client applications. In some embodiments, web services are provided on one or more servers that may be called by processes within client applications to facilitate collaboration within a workspace. These web services, in some such embodiments, may be properly called by an authorized user. Virtual meeting places referred to as rooms may be created dynamically and may each include one or more collaborative services. To facilitate the dynamic creation of new rooms, room templates may be provided which allow new rooms to be easily and automatically created. The room templates may store state information for the pre-existing rooms from which they are based. |
| US08266205B2 |
Multiple channel optimization for transaction messages
A first embodiment of the present invention relates to systems and methods for determining a priority for a set of alert triggers and performing additional processing based on the determined priority. In some embodiments, additional processing may include generating and sending of alert messages. In other embodiments, additional processing may further include determining that the generating and sending of alert messages are to be delayed until a later time. In yet other embodiments, additional processing may include determining that no alert message is to be generated and sent. A second embodiment of the present invention relates to systems and methods for dynamically selecting a delivery channel and generating an alert message for the selected delivery channel. In some embodiments, the alert message may be formatted based on the selected delivery channel. According to one embodiment, the alert message may be generated based on a compact protocol format. When the alert message is received by a mobile device, the mobile device may use the alert message to generate a second alert message. |
| US08266203B2 |
Method for obtaining device information of user terminals and communication service function entity
A method for obtaining device information of user terminals and a communication service function thereof are disclosed to enable a user to obtain terminal device information. The method for obtaining device information of user terminals in a communication system includes that a communication service function sends device information of a target user to a requesting terminal according to the target user ID carried in a device information obtaining request or a device information publish service setting. The communication service function includes: a receiving unit, adapted to receive a device information obtaining request or a device information publish service setting; a sending unit, adapted to send the stored device information of the target user to the requesting terminal according to the target user ID carried in the device information obtaining request or device information publish service setting. |
| US08266197B1 |
Method for factor analysis of GC/MS data
The method of the present invention provides a fast, robust, and automated multivariate statistical analysis of gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) data sets. The method can involve systematic elimination of undesired, saturated peak masses to yield data that follow a linear, additive model. The cleaned data can then be subjected to a combination of PCA and orthogonal factor rotation followed by refinement with MCR-ALS to yield highly interpretable results. |
| US08266194B2 |
Linear feedback shift registers with XOR logic gates including a bit generator to control movement along stages
A system comprising a feedback shift-register having L serially connected stages, and a non-linear feedback sub-system to receive input from stage n and 2n+1, and including a first AND gate having a first and second input operationally connected to the output of stage n and 2n+1, respectively, the sub-system having an output based on a value of an output of the first AND gate, a bit generator operative to generate bits, and an XOR gate having a first and second input, an output of the bit generator being operationally connected to the first input of the XOR gate, the output of the sub-system being operationally connected to the second input of the XOR gate, the output of the XOR gate being operationally connected to the input of the first stage of the shift-register. Related apparatus and methods are also described. |
| US08266191B1 |
System and method for flexible space reservations in a file system supporting persistent consistency point image
The present invention provides a system and method for flexible space reservations in a file system. An administrator of a storage system selects a fractional reserve percentage, which defines the size of the overwrite reserve that is to be maintained to ensure file writeability. |
| US08266189B2 |
Adapting between coupled and decoupled provider interfaces
Adapters are provided to convert a decoupled provider interface to a coupled provider interface and/or to convert a coupled provider interface to a decoupled provider interface. A decoupled provider may indirectly expose a data model by providing one or more of a sequence of unchanging views of data via snapshots and snapshot update events. A coupled provider may directly expose a dynamic data model or view and model update events. A decoupled consumer of data may consume data that is provided in snapshots and snapshot update events while a coupled consumer may consume data in the form of a dynamic data model and model update events. |
| US08266188B2 |
Method and system for extracting structural information from a data file
A system and method for generating metadata from a data file are provided. The method includes the steps of parsing a data file having data nodes arranged in a hierarchal structure by sequentially processing the data nodes to generate parsing events and calling back at least one parsing event to a scanner, the scanner processing the at least one parsing event by calling at least one corresponding function. The method also includes the step of generating metadata from the processed at least one parsing event preserving the hierarchal structure of the data nodes. |
| US08266187B2 |
Integration of static and dynamic data for database entities and the unified presentation thereof
A method is disclosed for presenting static and dynamic data corresponding to an entity within an application on a mobile device. An entity object is created as part of a data model within the application such that the entity object has a plurality of fields with the plurality of fields having static data corresponding to the entity. Based on the static data corresponding to the entity, dynamic data corresponding to the entity is received into the entity object from at least one of a plurality of applications executable within the mobile device. The static and dynamic data from the entity object corresponding to the entity is displayed simultaneously within a user interface of the application in a single presentation view. |
| US08266185B2 |
System and methods thereof for generation of searchable structures respective of multimedia data content
A system for generating concept structures respective of a plurality of multimedia data elements (MMDEs). The system comprises an attention processor (AP) for generating a plurality of items from a received MMDE of the plurality of MMDEs and determining which of the generated items that are of interest for signature generation; a signature generator (SG) for generating at least a signature responsive to at least an item of interest of the received MMDE of the plurality of MMDEs; a clustering processor (CP) for clustering a plurality of signatures received from the signature generator responsive of the plurality of MMDEs, and for creating a signature reduced cluster (SRC) of the cluster; and a concept generator (CG) for associating metadata with the SRC and matches the SRC with previously generated SRC such that SRCs that match form a concept structure comprised of a plurality of SRCs and their associated metadata. |
| US08266181B2 |
Key-break and record-loop processing in parallel data transformation
Embodiments of the invention provide a method and apparatus for providing additional functionality to a data processing program. This is achieved by various means, including preprocessing records in a data volume, designating certain records with a key-break, and creating an aggregation structure that user programs may use to store previously-processed records from the data volume. |
| US08266180B2 |
Validation of database schema upgrades using a data differencing tool
An upgrade controller that compares the contents of a reference database with an upgraded database is described. In one embodiment, the upgrade controller connects to the reference and upgraded database and retrieves the list of tables. For each of the tables, the upgrade controller compares the content of the reference and the upgraded table. The upgrade controller compares the table contents by comparing the contents on a record-by-record basis. In addition, the upgrade controller can use a whitelist of tables and columns to reduce the number of false positive(s) that could be generated during the comparison. |
| US08266168B2 |
Database systems and methods for linking records and entity representations with sufficiently high confidence
Disclosed are a system for, and method of, determining whether records correspond to the same individual. The system and method provide such a determination with a known minimum level of confidence. That is, the system and method provide an indication that records correspond to the same individual along with an associated confidence level. The system and method may be used to link records in a database that correspond to the same individuals, creating entity representations in the database. |
| US08266167B2 |
System and method for scenerio based content delivery
The present invention is directed towards systems and methods for providing scenario based content responsive to a given client. The method of the present invention comprises receiving a content request from a given client. Characteristics associated with a client from whom the content request is received are then identified. One or more scenarios corresponding to the one or more characteristics associated with the client are subsequently identified and the client is provided with the content associated with the one or more identified scenarios. |
| US08266163B2 |
Utilizing reference/ID linking in XML wrapper code generation
Utilizing reference/identification (ID) linking in extensible markup language (XML) wrapper code generation in a data processing system. A code generator receives a type document and reference/ID constraints document and accesses the reference/ID constraints document to translate between XML structures and object structures. |
| US08266161B2 |
Virtual data room for displaying clinical trial status reports based on real-time clinical trial data, with information control administration module that specifies which reports are available for display
A system is provided for use in distributing information associated with an investigational product, such as a pharmaceutical drug. The information includes electronic documents associated with the investigational product, and a plurality of different electronic reports based on real-time patient clinical study data of the investigational product. The system includes a database that stores the electronic documents, a virtual data room that is in electronic communication with the database and which includes a memory that stores the electronic reports, an information presentation module, and an information control administration module. The information presentation module causes a display of the information to a user of the virtual data room via a display screen. The electronic reports are generated using the real-time patient clinical study data when requested to be displayed. The information control administration module specifies which electronic reports will be made available to the user. Only the specified electronic reports are selectable for display on the display screen by the user of the virtual data room. In this manner, only the specified electronic reports may be generated for display to a user of the virtual data room. |
| US08266159B2 |
System and method for providing access to log data files
A system and method for providing a user with efficient access to a log data file. The system takes a computer generated log data file and applies a user defined filter criteria to the log data file. The indexed and filtered log data file is then displayed to the user in an application player where the user can interact with the log data file. |
| US08266158B2 |
Systems and methods for calculating a just-in-time reputation score
The present invention is directed towards systems and methods for generating a just-in-time reputation score. The method according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises receiving a user generated content item from a user, calculating an initial reputation score and retrieving a plurality of rules. The method then analyzes the user generated content item based on the rules and determines a just-in-time reputation score based on the analysis. Finally, the method displays the just-in-time reputation score and the content item to the user. |
| US08266154B2 |
Identifying top content contributors in online social networks
One particular embodiment accesses a plurality of user profiles corresponding to a plurality of users and a plurality of content objects; ranks the users in descending order based on a number of content objects each of the users has contributed to the social network; represents in log space ranks of the users versus in log space numbers of content objects contributed by the users; determines a threshold rank based on an increasing rate of the ranks of the users, a decreasing rate of the numbers of content objects, and a predetermined value in the log space; and identifies from among the users, those users ranked at and above the threshold rank as high-volume content contributors for the social network. The users belong to a social network; and each of the users has contributed at least one of the content objects to the social network. |
| US08266153B2 |
Determining and displaying application server object relevance
In embodiments, the number of references to an object which is deployed into an application server framework may be determined by examining metadata extracted from configuration data sources within a multi-tier application framework. In embodiments, an object relevance value based on the extracted number of references to an object may be associated with the object. In embodiments, the number of references extracted from a data source may be weighted using a weight factor that is associated with the data source. In embodiments, the number of references to a source object may be extracted by traversing a source inheritance hierarchy and parsing the objects within the hierarchy. In embodiments, an object relevance display of a set of objects may be generated based in part on object relevance values of the set of objects. In embodiments, an object relevance display may be a molecular display, a flash tag cloud, and/or a source tree hierarchy. |
| US08266152B2 |
Hashed indexing
Indexing data items into an index. A method includes identifying a parameter pattern for a data item stored in a data store record of a data store. The data store record has a data store location identifier. The method further includes identifying a hash of the parameter pattern. The data store location identifier is correlated to at least a portion of the hash in the index. The index includes index entries where each index entry includes at least a portion of a hash and one or more references to data store records by reference to data store location identifiers. |
| US08266149B2 |
Clustering with similarity-adjusted entropy
Data-mining software initializes a loop by (a) assigning the messages in an online discussion on a website to a single logical cluster that is one of a group of logical clusters and (b) determining a measure of similarity-adjusted entropy for the group of logical clusters. Then the data-mining software randomly reassigns one of the messages to another logical cluster that is randomly selected from the group of logical clusters and again determines a measure of the similarity-adjusted entropy for the group of logical clusters. If the subsequent measure of similarity-adjusted entropy is greater than or equal to the earlier measure of similarity-adjusted entropy, the data-mining software undoes the reassignment. If the subsequent measure of similarity-adjusted entropy is less than the earlier measure of similarity-adjusted entropy, the data-mining software replaces the earlier measure with the subsequent measure. The data-mining software repeats the operations of the loop until convergence is reached. |
| US08266148B2 |
Method and system for business intelligence analytics on unstructured data
Various embodiments of the present invention disclose a method for Business Intelligence (BI) metrics on unstructured data. Unstructured data is collected from numerous data sources that include unstructured data as ingested data. The ingested data is indexed and represents hyperlink and extracted data and metadata for each document. Thereafter, the ingested data is automatically classified into one or more relevance classes. Further, numerous analytics are performed on the classified data to generate business intelligence metrics that may be presented on an access device operated by a user. |
| US08266145B2 |
Contextual data mapping, searching and retrieval
An example method is illustrated as including receiving a first content set, the first content set organized according to a rules set, using the rules set to parse the first content set to generate a first pattern set having a plurality of members, assigning a weighted value to each member of the first and a second pattern set based on a frequency of occurrence of each member in the first and second pattern sets, wherein each member of the first and second pattern sets includes digital content, and determining a relevancy score linking each of the members of the first and second pattern set in a one to one mapping of the members of the first pattern set to each of the members of the second pattern set, wherein the relevancy score is based upon the weighted value assigned to each member of the first and second pattern sets. |
| US08266143B2 |
Document scoring based on query analysis
A system may determine an extent to which a document is selected when the document is included in a set of search results, generate a score for the document based, at least in part, on the extent to which the document is selected when the document is included in a set of search results; and rank the document with regard to at least one other document based, at least in part, on the score. |
| US08266141B2 |
Efficient use of computational resources for interleaving
Methods and computer-readable media are provided for improving the efficiency of the interleaving process. Once it is determined that a search query is to be used in an interleaving experiment, a primary ranking system and a secondary ranking system are analyzed to determine whether their respective search results for that search query would be identical. If the search results would be identical, the search query is routed only to the primary ranking system and not the secondary ranking system. If, however, it is determined that the search results would not be identical, both the primary ranking system and the secondary ranking system receive the search query for processing. |
| US08266139B2 |
System and interface for co-located collaborative web search
Systems and methods are provided to perform collaborative retrieval, communication, and navigation of electronic content in a co-located environment. In an illustrative implementation, a collaborative content environment comprises a collaborative content interface engine, and an instruction set comprising at least one instruction providing instructions to the collaborative content interface engine to process data representative of inputs from two or more cooperating interface devices to allow for the retrieval, communication, search, and navigation of electronic content. In the illustrative implementation, the collaborative content interface engine can present retrieved, communicated, searched, and/or navigated data according to a selected display paradigm. The display paradigm can include one or more display portions of a display pane comprising data responsive to the inputs received from the two or more cooperating interface devices. |
| US08266138B1 |
On-demand database service system, method and computer program product for generating a custom report
In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for generating a custom report using an on-demand database service. These mechanisms and methods for generating an on-demand database service custom report can enable embodiments to generate reports that reflect a relationship between at least two different objects. The ability of embodiments to provide such additional insight into database contents may lead to more efficient and effective reporting. |
| US08266137B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating index as well as search method and search apparatus
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for generating index as well as a search method and a search apparatus. Index entry comprises at least a search item identifier corresponding to a search item, one or a plurality of index items generated from one or plural pieces of search information, and an accumulator for the search information. The accumulator is generated by accumulating the search information, or accumulating ciphertext of information containing the search information, or accumulating data mapped from information containing the search information. At the time of searching, the index items and the accumulator are provided to a searcher. The searcher extracts search information from the index items and checks whether the extracted search information is complete by using the accumulator. In one embodiment, the accumulator is incorporated in an encrypted inverted index. |
| US08266135B2 |
Indexing for regular expressions in text-centric applications
A method, system, and article are provided for evaluating regular expressions over large data collections. A general purpose index is built to handle complex regular expressions at the character level. Characters, character classes, and associated metadata are identified and stored in an index of a collection of documents. Given a regular expression, a query is generated based on the contents of the index. This query is executed over the index to identify a set of documents in the collection of documents over which the regular expression can be evaluated. Based upon the query execution, the identified set of documents is returned for evaluation by the regular expression responsive to execution of the query over the index. |
| US08266130B2 |
Search tool providing optional use of human search guides
A method and system providing optional use of human search guides to allow a user to select between a human guide assisted search and an automated search. The user is provided with an option of submitting a query requesting assistance of one or more human guides, initiating a search without requesting assistance from human guide(s) using automated results, or a combination of both. |
| US08266128B2 |
Interaction modalities for multimedia delivery and presentation
A method and apparatus for displaying received data, analyze the quality of the displayed data formulating a media-parameter suggestion for the encoder to alter the characteristics of data to be sent to the receiver, and sending from the receiver, the formulated suggestion. |
| US08266123B2 |
Providing portal navigation for alerts
Navigating from an alert related to a state of a data object to a source of the alert includes displaying alerts in a portal environment. The portal environment has an analytical portal application associated with an analytical data store and a transaction portal application associated with a transaction data store. One of the alerts includes a transaction alert that is associated with a data object in the transaction data and another of the alerts includes an analytical alert that is associated with a data object. An indication of a transaction alert or an analytical alert is received from a user. When the indication is an indication of an analytical alert, navigation occurs to the analytical portal application. When the indication is an indication of the transaction alert, navigation occurs to the transaction portal application. |
| US08266122B1 |
System and method for versioning data in a distributed data store
A system and method for versioning of atomic units of data (such as XML fragments) in a distributed data store are disclosed. The distributed data store may maintain a linear version history for each fragment, such that each has no more than one successor and one predecessor, with no implicit branching. An application programming interface may provide an explicit branching request (indicating an intent to merge modified data in a child branch into its parent branch), along with read, create, create-merge, and/or integrate requests. A reconciliation policy may be specified on a per-application basis, and may include automatic reconciliation using a callback function or interactive reconciliation, with inputs returned to the application. Writes to a minority side of a network partition may be refused unless an explicit branch is requested. Transactions may not be supported in client applications or may be supported through explicit branching. Transactions may be used internally. |
| US08266119B2 |
Contents management system, image processing device in contents management system, and link information generating method of image processing device
A disclosed contents management system includes a management server for managing contents and an information processing device for performing a process on the contents, which are connected to a network. The management server includes a supplying unit for supplying the contents to the information processing device in response to a request from the information processing device. The information processing device includes an acquiring unit for acquiring reproduction starting point information of the contents, a generating unit for generating, based on the reproduction starting point information acquired by the acquiring unit, link information for accessing the contents, and a storing unit for temporarily storing, in a region of a memory, the link information generated by the generating unit in association with information indicating content of the contents, when a pasting unit pastes the link information onto document data being edited. The contents are accessed based on the link information pasted onto the document data. |
| US08266116B2 |
Method and apparatus for dual-hashing tables
Methods and apparatus for dual hash tables are disclosed. An example method includes logically dividing a hash table data structure into a first hash table and a second hash table, where the first hash table and the second hash table are substantially logically equivalent. The example method further includes receiving a key and a corresponding data value, applying a first hash function to the key to produce a first index to a first bucket in the first hash table, and applying a second hash function to the key to produce a second index to a second bucket in the second hash table. In the example method the key and the data value are inserted in one of the first hash table and the second hash table based on the first index and the second index. |
| US08266115B1 |
Identifying duplicate electronic content based on metadata
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for de-duplicating electronic content based on comparing metadata. In one aspect, a method includes comparing first metadata associated with a first item of electronic content to second metadata associated with a second item of electronic content, and generating a score based on the comparison. The method also includes establishing that the first and second items of electronic content comprise potentially duplicate content when the score is greater than a predetermined threshold value, and providing information identifying either the first or second items of electronic content for display when establishing that the first and second items of electronic content comprise potentially duplicate content. |
| US08266113B2 |
Methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture for computer file integrity and baseline maintenance
Apparatus, methods and articles of manufacture for file integrity and baseline maintenance on a computer system or systems are shown. A file integrity check is made of files on a system by hashing the files and comparing the hash to a stored hash of the files. If the comparison is false, the system requests a copy of the file from a server, which may be unknown or untrusted. The system then compares the received file to the stored hash. If the comparison is true, the copy of the file will be installed on the system. If false, the system repeats the request. |
| US08266106B2 |
Systems and methods for performing storage operations using network attached storage
Systems and methods for performing hierarchical storage operations on electronic data in a computer network are provided. In one embodiment, the present invention may store electronic data from a network device to a network attached storage (NAS) device pursuant to certain storage criteria. The data stored on the NAS may be migrated to a secondary storage and a stub file having a pointer pointing to the secondary storage may be put at the location the data was previously stored on the NAS. The stub file may redirect the network device to the secondary storage if a read request for the data is received from the network device. |
| US08266104B2 |
Method and system for cascading a middleware to a data orchestration engine
Methods, systems, and computer-readable medium storing instructions thereon for implementing methods are directed to facilitating data exchange, such as accessing and operating on data objects, between field applications, such as mobile clients, and dedicated servers by leveraging the features of middleware. An embodiment includes a first server providing a first set of services and data to a mobile client. A first communicating middleware is connected between the first server and the mobile client according to a first communication functionality. A second server provides a second set of services and data according to a second communication functionality that is different from the first communication functionality. A second middleware communicates with the second server according to the second communication functionality, and communicates with the first middleware according to the first communication functionality. The second middleware is connected to the second server and the first middleware. |
| US08266103B1 |
Synchronizing resource type and property structures
Extracting and synchronizing an Enterprise Portal application resource types and properties of business objects located in repository is disclosed. The repository is queried without human intervention to determine business object type information and for each business object type its associated properties. A representation of the business object types and associated properties in a format that facilitates synchronization with the enterprise portal application is generated. |
| US08266100B2 |
Information processing apparatus and control method therefor
This invention provides an information processing apparatus which shortens the memory access time and reduces the cost while ensuring data reliability. To accomplish this, the information processing apparatus shifts each write start timing so that data to be written in at least one memory is not influenced by noise during write when writing the same information in a plurality of memories. When reading data from a plurality of memories, the information processing apparatus compares the data with each other to estimate normal data. |
| US08266098B2 |
Ranking expert responses and finding experts based on rank
In a computerized social network, expert and user chat sessions are stored and rated probabilistically. Later user requests for information are met with an expert ranking, based on a balance of similarities between expert profile and questions; similarity between expert profile and prior chat sessions, and dynamically updated chat session ratings. New sessions can be rated automatically with reference to keywords distilled from past sessions responsive to user ratings—and based on session length. |
| US08266092B2 |
Methods and systems for target value path identification
Target value search methods and systems are presented for solving a target value path problem to identify a path or paths in a graph in which a connection graph is created and upper and lower bound values are determined for each node in the connection graph, and a first best search is performed to identify a path or paths from a starting node to a goal node having a path value closest to the target value. |
| US08266091B1 |
Systems and methods for emulating the behavior of a user in a computer-human interaction environment
A computer-implemented method for emulating the behavior of a user in a computer-human interaction environment is described. An image of a window and data relating to positions of clicks executed within the image are received. A probabilistic model is created to estimate a probability of a click being executed in a region of a window. Clicks, in accordance with the probabilistic model, are executed within windows associated with a plurality of applications. A clicks distribution model is created based on the position of the clicks executed within the windows of the plurality of applications. Clicks, in accordance with the clicks distribution model, are executed within a window associated with an application being tested. |
| US08266085B1 |
Apparatus and method for using analog circuits to embody non-lipschitz mathematics and properties using attractor and repulsion modes
A network of coupled neurons for implementing Non-Lipschitz dynamics for modeling nonlinear processes or conditions comprising: a plurality of neurons, each being configurable in attractor and repulsion modes of operation, and programmable by an external signal; a plurality of synaptic connections for connecting at least a portion of the plurality of neurons for passage of data from one neuron to another; feedback circuitry for incrementing and decrementing an analog voltage output depending upon the output of the synaptic connection; whereby by the circuit solves Non-Lipschitz problems by programmably controlling the attractor and repulsion modes. A method of programming a network for solving Non-Lipschitz problems comprising providing a plurality of neurons, each programmable into a plurality of modes including repulsion and attraction modes; interconnecting the plurality of neurons using synaptic connections; providing feedback to at least one of the neurons; whereby by programming the neurons Non-Lipschitz terminal dynamics can be achieved. |
| US08266082B2 |
Context inference system providing information to user according to context and method thereof
A context inference system including a mobile device and at least one information sending unit is provided. The mobile device includes an information receiving unit and a context operation platform. The information receiving unit receives a context information. The context operation platform includes an information collection module for collecting the information used for inferring a context based on a convergent search and an expanded search, a data classification and storage module for storing and classifying a user preference information of a user, and an inference module for inferring a context. The information sending unit transmits the context information to the mobile device. The context operation platform performs a context inference process according to the context information and the user preference information in order to forecast the user's need and provide a recommendation information to the user. |
| US08266080B2 |
Virtual measuring device and method
A virtual measuring device and a method for measuring the deposition thickness of amorphous silicon being deposited on a substrate is disclosed, where the method of measuring the deposition thickness of amorphous silicon includes predicting and adapting operations. In the predicting operation, during a process of depositing the amorphous silicon to a substrate, the deposition thickness is predicted by multiplying a predicted deposition speed to a deposition time by using a prediction model expressing a relationship between a deposition speed and a plurality of process factors that are correlated with the deposition speed obtained from the deposition thickness and the deposition time, and the predicted deposition thickness is compared with the measured deposition thickness, so that the relationship between the plurality of process factors and the deposition speed in the prediction model is compensated according to the comparison difference. |
| US08266076B2 |
Apparatus, system, and method for quantifying energy usage and savings
An apparatus, system, and method for quantifying energy usage and savings enables applying the savings to a financial transaction. Quantification includes estimating and/or monitoring usage of utilities by detectors, comparing the usage to a predetermined baseline value, and valuating an energy savings. Quantification relies on a comprehensive database to establish the baseline and to predict usage and savings. A portion of the savings may be applied to any of early repayment of a mortgage loan, investment in securities, and a request for a credit. The method and system standardizes values of energy units and/or monetary units, and quantifies savings. The method and system aids in qualifying the building project based on a concrete estimation of energy savings or a savings within a range. Thus, the method forms a bridge between green, other energy conserving, or sustainable technologies and the financial markets. |
| US08266073B2 |
System for maximizing a value of lumber
A system and method is disclosed that uses moisture content readings in order to determine how to maximize the price value of lumber. Feedback can then be provided to a kiln controller on how to adjust kiln settings in order to increase the value of the lumber produced. In one embodiment, moisture content is determined on a plurality of boards. Using the moisture content readings, an actual value of the plurality of boards is determined. Then a calculation is made to determine how to modify moisture content in order to maximize the value of the lumber. In yet another embodiment, geographic positions of individual packages are tracked in the kiln. The efficiency of the kiln is determined based on drying uniformity of the packages. Then the moisture content can be modified to determine how it impacts value of a charge of lumber. |
| US08266072B2 |
Incident communication interface for the knowledge management system
Embodiments of the present invention include a method, system, computer program product, or a combination of the foregoing for creating a knowledge management system with an incident communication interface for production support incidents that is standardized and centralized across the channels and sub-channels in an organization. The incident communication interface system is used to track, identify, and resolve the incidents that occur throughout the organization. The incident communication interface allows business associates to initiate an incident ticket associated with an incident. The incident communication interface also communicates information related to an incident to business associates. The incident communication interface provides the business associates knowledge management system access. The incident communication interface receives user input including details related to resolving the incident and the incident details are stored in the incident report database. |
| US08266069B2 |
Method and apparatus for hierarchical inbound shipment order configuration
An interactive hierarchical inbound shipment order configuration tool receives input from merchants to configure hierarchical inbound shipment orders. The tool allows merchants to configure hierarchical shipments with multiple levels including a product level, one or more container levels, and a shipment transportation level. The tool allows merchants to perform the following: include product type objects in the product level representing physical products and container objects in the container level(s) representing physical containers; create associations between the product type object(s) and container object(s) at the container level(s) each representing a number of products packaged into a number of containers; create associations between container object(s) at different container levels each representing a number of containers packaged into a number of containers; and create associations between the container object(s) and a shipment transportation object at the shipment transportation level each representing a number of containers included on a shipment transportation vehicle. |
| US08266068B1 |
Candidate interview assistant
The invention relates to a method to interview a candidate. The method steps include providing a virtual interview assistant comprising an interview plan, a recording module, an analysis module, and a candidate screening criteria, wherein the recording module is configured to record at least one recording selected from a group consisting of video recording, audio recording, and physiological parameter recording, and wherein the analysis module configured for analyzing the at least one recording, collecting a candidate interview response by interviewing the candidate using the virtual interview assistant based on the interview plan, wherein at least a portion of the candidate interview response is collected using the recording module, analyzing the candidate interview response using the analysis module to generate a candidate profile, and presenting the candidate profile to a recruiter based on the candidate screening criteria, wherein the recruiter makes a recruiting decision regarding the candidate based on the candidate profile. |
| US08266065B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing transactions
A system receives account access information from a user. The account is then accessed using the received access information. Data is harvested from a web page associated with the account or received from another financial data source. The user's ability to access the account is authenticated based on the obtained information. |
| US08266059B2 |
Methods and apparatus for preventing fraud in payment processing transactions
A method includes receiving an authorization request for a purchase transaction, and determining whether the authorization request arose from proximity-reading a proximity payment device. The method further includes mapping a first account number included in the authorization request into a second account number associated with the first account number if it is determined that the authorization request arose from proximity-reading a proximity payment device and if the first account number is qualified for mapping. In addition, the method includes transmitting the authorization request to an issuer financial institution with the second account number substituted for the first account number in the authorization request. |
| US08266057B2 |
Methods and systems for assigning interchange rates to financial transactions using an interchange network
A method for assigning an interchange rate to a financial transaction is provided. The method uses at least one input device in communication with an interchange database. The financial transaction is initiated by a cardholder using a card over a card interchange, the card having been issued by an issuer bank. The method includes the steps of storing issuer data within the interchange database, the issuer data including whether the issuer bank has entered into a special relationship with the interchange. |
| US08266046B2 |
System and method for using diversification spreading for risk offset
A computer-implemented method for analyzing a risk offset associated with a portfolio including a plurality of products traded on an exchange is disclosed. The method includes comparing a first market response of a first product in the portfolio with a second market response of a second product in the portfolio where the first and second market responses result from a change in market data, calculating an offsetting effect between the first market response and the second market response where the first and second market responses are substantially different responses to the same change in the market data, determining a diversification spread based on the offsetting effect derived between the first product and the second product, calculating a diversification spread credit based on the determined diversification spread, and adjusting a margin requirement for the portfolio based on the diversification spread credit. |
| US08266040B2 |
Virtual trading floor system and method
An interactive decision support system for monitoring and responding to system and market events displayed within a two dimensional view of a three dimensional system model. |
| US08266037B2 |
Controlling implied markets during a stop loss trigger
A system mitigates the effects of a market spike caused by the triggering and the election of a conditional order in an automated matching system. Conditional orders submitted to a trading engine are evaluated to compare a price of an order to a predetermined price range. Matching of the orders may be delayed when the price of the orders lies outside of the predetermined price range. An opening price to be used by the trading engine is derived and a time interval is used to delay a matching of the orders until the opening price is within a predetermined price range up to a maximum delay time set by a control center. Implied spreads are also removed until other instruments within a trading unit are verified open. |
| US08266036B1 |
System and method for process scheduling
A method for scheduling processing of an instrument. The method receives instrument information, selects an instrument category for the instrument based on the instrument information, the selected instrument category having a calculation set, assigns the instrument to a job corresponding to the calculation set of the selected instrument category; and sends the job to a computing resource. In another aspect, the method also receives a purpose identifier, and chooses the calculation set from two or more calculation sets of the selected instrument category based on the purpose identifier. In another aspect, the calculation set includes two or more calculation sub-sets, each calculation sub-set having a job priority, and the method includes assigning the instrument to two or more jobs corresponding to each of the two or more calculation sub-sets. |
| US08266035B2 |
Financial instrument utilizing an optional benefit election
A data processing system for managing an annuity account associated with a first provision entitling a beneficiary to monetary transfers for a duration of time extending for the life of a first designated party and a second provision granting an option to modify the duration of time. The data processing system includes one or more processors and one or more memory devices storing logic. The logic is operable when executed by the one or more processors to determine whether an option has been elected and, based at least in part on the determination, process one or more monetary transfers to the beneficiary. |
| US08266034B1 |
Method, software program, and system for managing debt
In one embodiment, a method for managing variable rate debt in the form of at least one credit issued by a borrower, comprising: budgeting for interest owed on the variable rate debt by the borrower during a time period when an interest rate on the variable rate debt is below a first predetermined low interest rate level; applying at least a portion of any existing current budgetary excess by the borrower to reduce future interest rate risk by performing at least one of i) the early retirement of principal associated with the variable rate debt and ii) the funding of a sinking fund; and applying at least a portion of any accumulated budgetary excess by the borrower during a time period when the interest rate is above a first predetermined high interest rate level to reduce an amount of debt service. A corresponding software program and system are also disclosed. |
| US08266028B2 |
Expense tracking, electronic ordering, invoice presentment, and payment system and method
Systems and methods are described for electronic invoice presentment and payment processing. Requestors may place an order to purchase goods or services from one or more vendors. Invoice processing includes approval routing and dispute resolution. |
| US08266026B2 |
Derivative products
Systems and methods are described for processing and clearing derivatives products with a binary outcome and having a final settlement based on a triggering event. A computer system configured to process and clear derivative products can accept initial and adjusted performance bonds from buyers and sellers, and adjust the market price of the derivative product at intervals. The market price may be adjusted on a mark-to-market basis and through analysis of other information, e.g., the credit rating of a reference entity. As a result of price adjustments, cash flow may be generated between buyers and sellers. The derivative product may pay a predetermined final settlement amount or percentage upon the triggering of a predetermined event. However, upon expiration of the derivative product, the derivative's market price is settled to zero and the agreement is terminated. |
| US08266025B1 |
System and method for assuring the integrity of data used to evaluate financial risk or exposure
A method and system is provided for assuring the integrity of data used to evaluate financial risk or exposure in trading portfolios such as portfolios of derivative contracts by looking for sweeping changes or statistically significant trends suggestive of possible errors. The method and system uses Content Analysis to measure the changes in the information content or entropy of data to detect abnormal changes that may require human intervention. A graphical user interface can also be provided that provides a mechanism for alerting users of possible errors and also gives an indication of the severity of the detected abnormality. |
| US08266023B2 |
Information model for property records management
An information model for a party and property records management system includes a legal party role object for maintaining relationships between objects, such as legal party objects and revenue-object objects, within the information model. A legal party object could have several associated objects, such as an identification number object or a legal party communication object. |
| US08266022B2 |
Risk-cost analysis of currency exposure reduction for currency exposure management
Methods and apparatuses enable companies to analyze potential foreign currency exposure reduction actions. Value-at-risk (VaR) for currency exposures and cost of potential exposure reduction actions are used to order currency exposures representing foreign currency exposure for a company. Currency exposures associated with negative cost actions are ordered based on a ratio of VaR to cost. Currency exposure associated with positive cost actions can also be ordered, either based on VaR or cost. An output representation of the VaR versus accumulated cost is generated from the ordered currency exposures. Additionally, a graphical representation of VaR versus accumulated cost can be generated from plot points based on the ordered currency exposures. The output representation, whether a table, list, or graph, allows comparing potential exposure reduction actions. |
| US08266020B2 |
Methods and systems for collaborative demand planning and replenishment
The present invention provides systems and methods for generating replenishment orders for products sold to a multi-store retailer. Store trait data is mapped with planogram information and the mapped data is used to generate a fixture level safety stock for a particular product in a particular store. The fixture level safety stock triggers fixture level replenishment orders. |
| US08266018B2 |
Methods and apparatus for managing tote orders
Methods and apparatus for managing tote deliveries by a tote delivery service. The tote delivery service directs delivery of items ordered by customers via a network site to delivery addresses corresponding to the customers in reusable totes on upcoming tote delivery days. A user interface to the network site may provide a tote management user interface that includes one or more user interface elements via which a customer may view the customer's upcoming tote orders and modify the content, destination, or scheduling of upcoming totes. For example, the customer may move an item from one tote into another tote, remove or delete an item from a tote, and replicate an item or an entire tote order to another tote. A customer may have multiple tote delivery days and multiple delivery addresses; the tote management user interface enables the customer to manage tote deliveries across time and across location. |
| US08266015B2 |
Inventory sales system and method
A computer system and method of facilitating a sale which permits inventory information to be used in connection with a technology enabled selling (TES) system to facilitate a sale. The inventory information may be used during configuration of an item to be sold to a customer in a manner which allows the sales representative to more easily sell items from inventory if desired. |
| US08266014B1 |
Method and medium for creating a ranked list of products
A shared “universal” virtual shopping cart (“the cart”) may be provided by a host to enable information sharing between multiple disparate electronic marketplaces provided by various merchants. The host may obtain user information via the cart to improve interactions with a user. The host may recommend an item to the user that is offered at a lower price and related to an item retained in the user's cart. The host may also recommend items based on a user's purchase history, such as complementary items (e.g., up-sell items) and items other users may recommend. In some aspects, the host may compile best selling lists based on data from multiple electronic marketplaces. The host may also perform user specific operations such as indicate an item in a cart is a duplicate of a previous purchase and monitor a price and/or available quantities of an item in the cart. |
| US08266004B2 |
Method and system for efficiently relaying merchandise deal through public assessment in on-line market
Provided are an electronic commerce method and system that are capable of collecting information on a variety of goods or quotations in broad, intermediate, and narrow categories corresponding to attributes of goods that a buyer requests according to his or her needs, and managing the information in a database. The method and system are also capable of enabling a buyer to read and refer to quotation history, including quotation requests or process details for goods or services, and suggest appropriate price and conditions in a process of requesting a quotation. The method and system are also capable of enabling a plurality of verified sellers to respond to the quotation request, by storing, processing, and publishing the quotation history, such that the seller can obtain online sales routes at low cost and the buyer can purchase desired goods or services at a better price and under better conditions due to competition among sellers. |
| US08265997B2 |
Method and system for dynamic textual ad distribution via email
A system and method for providing dynamic pay-for-placement advertisements via graphics-enabled email that generates a display of advertisements when the email newsletter is opened so the advertisements displayed are based on rankings at the time the email is opened instead of when the email was generated and transmitted. In one embodiment, a graphical-content email having one or more embedded advertisement image references is provided to one or more email recipients. The advertisement image reference, in one embodiment, may include query string parameters indicating the context of the image reference and/or portion of the image reference (i.e., identifying the image reference as being part of a particular newsletter email), a position of the image reference in the email display, and the like. A URL reference also may be included with each advertisement image reference (.e.g., one URL for each advertisement portion of the image to be retrieved by the advertising image reference). |
| US08265996B2 |
Media play optimization
Systems, methods, and a user interface for automatically scheduling a media play is disclosed. The user can specify criteria for play of the media play, including times, stations, and/or external criteria such as a weather condition or the occurrence of an event. Information relevant to the entered criteria is received and assessed against the criteria to determine if the criteria are met. Responsive to the received information meeting the criteria for play of the media play, an accessor accesses the media play inventory and inserts the media play into a media feed. |
| US08265995B2 |
Predictive geo-temporal advertisement targeting
A method, system, and medium are provided for targeting advertisements to users of mobile devices based on geo-temporal models. Time-stamped location information is collected for a mobile device and a dynamic geo-temporal model is constructed and updated when new data is collected according to a sample design. Using the geo-temporal model, device location and instances of user interaction with the device can be predicted, and advertisements can be provided based on the predicted location. Advertisements can be cached on the mobile device for later presentation, and the sample design can be updated to improve efficiency and accuracy in the modeling system. |
| US08265990B2 |
Method and system for selecting and delivering media content via the internet
A system and method for selecting portions of content, and media content sets to be delivered over a packet based network is provided. The selected portions of content (such as a web page) may be keywords such as a word or a group of words. The media content sets may include one or more of video content (that may include an audio portion), audio content, graphics, images, or other multimedia or single media content. The media content set may include advertising, informational, business, educational, governmental, institutional, customized (e.g., personalized) content and/or other content. According to an example embodiment, the present invention provides a heuristic model employing a piece-wise linear optimization function to select keywords and the media content sets for delivery by a media delivery provider. |
| US08265989B2 |
Methods and apparatus to determine effects of promotional activity on sales
Example systems, methods, processes, and apparatus for determining expected base sales for a product include obtaining sales data for a product sold at a point of sale location. The sales data can be organized in a time series according to a predetermined time period. The method further includes identifying a promotional event for at least one of the product and the point of sale location and excluding sales data corresponding to the promotional event. The remaining sales data is processed using a smoothed moving average model involving a plurality of passes through the remaining sales data. Expected base data for the product is generated based on the smoothed moving average model and output to a user. |
| US08265987B2 |
Road-vehicle communication system
A road-vehicle communication system warns or gives caution to a vehicle traveling in a reverse way direction and may also give warning to vehicles traveling in a correct direction. The road-vehicle communication system includes a first roadside apparatus at an entrance gate that gives entry gate pass information indicating that a vehicle passing a communicative area has entered a toll road. A second roadside apparatus at an exit ramp acquires any given entry gate pass information from a passing vehicle. An administration device judges whether or not the entry gate pass information is acquired from the passing vehicle. If the entry gate pass information is not acquired, the second roadside apparatus provides the vehicle with reverse-way driving warning information for warning the vehicle that the vehicle is traveling in the reverse direction. |
| US08265985B2 |
Automated system and method for managing goals
A goal management system stores at least first and second goals. The goal management system also stores a relationship between the first goal and the second goal. In one aspect, the goal management system detects modification of the first goal and, in response, causes the second goal to be automatically highlighted for alignment verification. In another aspect, the second goal is a parent goal to the first goal, and the relationship is stored as a parent link associating the first goal with the parent goal. The goal management system also stores an owner for the first goal. In response to detecting modification of the parent goal, the goal management system causes the first goal to be automatically highlighted for alignment verification in a display associated with the owner of the first goal, based on the parent link. Additional aspects relate to additional technological solutions which facilitate goal management through, for example, goal alignment. |
| US08265981B2 |
Method and system for identifying a business organization that needs transformation
A method and system for identifying a business organization that needs transformation is provided. In one implementation the method and system may include providing information, such as financial, marketing, and internal information, related to a business organization; determining from the information whether the business organization has had a performance trigger; adding the business organization to a list of transformation candidates if the determination identifies the business organization as having had a performance trigger; and displaying on a display device whether the business organization is a candidate for transformation. |
| US08265979B2 |
Automatic generation of process models
A method for process modeling includes reading a record of executions of a process including at least first and second activities, and identifying in one of the executions in the record respective first and second lifespans of the first and second activities, defined by respective initiating and finish events, such that the initiating event of the second lifespan occurs during the first lifespan. A graphic model of the process is generated, so as to reflect a concurrency of the first and second activities, responsively to occurrence of the initiating event of the second lifespan during the first lifespan. |
| US08265976B2 |
Assessment of skills of a user
A method, operable on a processing device, for assessment of skills of a user may include receiving, by the processing device, an error message reporting an error associated with the user. The method may also include determining, by the processing device, a categorization of the error. Determining the categorization of the error may include assigning one of a plurality of predetermined skill ratings to the user. Each predetermined skill rating may be associated with a predefined condition. The method may additionally include generating, by the processing device, a report for assessment of the skills of the user. The report may include an identification of the user, the error, identification of a system if a system associated error, identification of a product if a product associated error, the categorization of the error and the predetermined skill rating assigned to the user. |
| US08265971B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating profile of solutions trading off number of activities utilized and objective value for bilinear integer optimization models
A method and system of generating at least one of a solution and a profile of solutions for a problem, including trading off a reduction of an objective of the problem against a number of activities utilized in a solution. The method and system further include partitioning activities into known and potential new activities, and generating, via non-linear integer programming, a model comprising a profile of solutions based on the known and potential new activities. |
| US08265965B2 |
Derivative products
Methods, systems and apparatuses are described for processing and clearing derivatives products with a digital outcome and a plurality of constituents. A computer system configured to process and clear derivative products can accept initial and adjusted performance bonds from buyers and sellers, and adjust the market price of the derivative product at intervals. The market price may be adjusted on a mark-to-market basis and through analysis of other information, e.g., a change in credit rating of reference entities of the derivative product. As a result of price adjustments, cash flow may be generated between buyers and sellers (e.g., credit and debit to accounts). The derivative product may pay a percentage of a predetermined final settlement amount upon the triggering of a predetermined event in each of the constituents of the derivative product. However, upon expiration of the derivative product, the derivative's market price is settled to zero and the agreement is terminated. |
| US08265964B2 |
System and method for processing data related to insurance coverage for a plurality of risks
A computer system for processing of data associated with insurance coverage includes a data storage device storing data indicative of: an insured; an aggregate benefit amount, the aggregate benefit amount being a maximum benefit amount payable under the insurance coverage; a first category of health risks; a second category of health risks; a first benefit allocation corresponding to the first category of health risks; and a second benefit allocation corresponding to the second category of health risks; the benefit allocations being fractions of and totaling the aggregate benefit amount. A processor of the system is configured to, responsive to the receipt of data indicative of a claim, determine eligibility for a benefit, and responsive to determining that the insured is eligible, provide output data indicative of a benefit amount, the benefit amount for each of the categories of health risks having a maximum equal to the corresponding benefit allocation. |
| US08265954B2 |
System for communication of health care data
A computer system that extracts health care data from one or more health care payors to identify meaningful relationships or patterns in treatments to compare the effectiveness of various treatment of specific diseases is provided. This computer system includes a computer and a staging database. The computer is configured to communicate with one or more payor computer systems of a type that includes one or more databases storing records of the health care data from one or more payors over the Internet. The staging database is in communication with the computer and is configured to receive the health care data from each of the payor computer systems. The health care data from each of the payor computer systems is configured to be converted into a normalized format. The normalized data is the made available to determine comparative effectiveness of various treatments of specific diseases. |
| US08265951B2 |
Medical inspection aid system, medical inspection aid method and computer readable medium
Adequate use item information and subject's condition criterion information are determined in advance. Actual use item information and actual subject's condition information are inputted. The actual use item information includes information of at least one used medical device and information of at least one used medicine. The actual subject's condition information indicates biological conditions of the subject after conduction of the inspection. The actual use item information is compared with the adequate use item information and the actual subject's condition information is compared with the subject's condition criterion information so that pieces of information with difference therebetween are extracted as difference information. Whether the conducted specific medical inspection was carried out adequately or not is determined based on the difference information. |
| US08265949B2 |
Customized patient surgical plan
Systems, methods, and devices are disclosed which generate surgical plans that have been customized for a particular patient. One such system includes a client, a surgical plan system and a computer assisted orthopaedic surgery system. The client generates a surgical plan request that includes data relevant to a patient and an orthopaedic surgical procedure to be performed upon the patient. The surgical plan system receives the surgical plan request and generates a surgical plan that has been customized based upon the data of the surgical plan request. The computer assisted orthopaedic surgery system assists a surgeon performing the orthopaedic surgical procedure per the surgical plan generated by the surgical plan system. |
| US08265942B2 |
Multi-authoring within benefits content system
Described are methods and apparatus, including computer program products, for multi-authoring within a benefits content management the system. Relationships are defined between content elements of the benefits content system. A first request is received to change a first content element of the benefits content system. Other content elements of the benefits content system having a relationship to the first content element are identified. A user interface is provided on a computing device to enable a user associated with the first request to control access by other users attempting to change one or more of the other content elements having a relationship to the first element while the user associated with the first request is changing the first content element. |
| US08265941B2 |
Method and an apparatus for decoding an audio signal
A method for decoding an audio signal comprises receiving a combined downmix, a combined object information, and a mix information, the combined downmix being generating using at least two downmix signals, the combined object information being made by combination of at least two sets of object information, generating a downmix processing information using the combined object information and the mix information, and processing the combined downmix using the downmix processing information.The method and an apparatus for decoding an audio signal comprising the combined downmix and the combined object information can control object gain and output in a remote conference and so on.The method and the apparatus for decoding audio signal that contains multi-object signals are fast and efficiently by reducing process time, computer resource, thereby relieving the resource requirement like the wide bandwidth by using the combined object information. |
| US08265939B2 |
Hierarchical methods and apparatus for extracting user intent from spoken utterances
A technique for determining intent associated with a spoken utterance of a user comprises the following steps/operations. Decoded speech uttered by the user is obtained. An intent is then extracted from the decoded speech uttered by the user. The intent is extracted in an iterative manner such that a class is determined after a first iteration and a sub-class of the class is determined after a second iteration. The class and the sub-class of the class are hierarchically indicative of the intent of the user, e.g., a target and data that may be associated with the target. The user intent extracting step may further determine a sub-class of the sub-class of the class after a third iteration, such that the class, the sub-class of the class, and the sub-class of the sub-class of the class are hierarchically indicative of the intent of the user. |
| US08265937B2 |
Breathing apparatus speech enhancement using reference sensor
Speech enhancement in a breathing apparatus is provided using a primary sensor mounted near a breathing mask user's mouth, at least one reference sensor mounted near a noise source, and a processor that combines the signals from these sensors to produce an output signal with an enhanced speech component. The reference sensor signal may be filtered and the result may be subtracted from the primary sensor signal to produce the output signal with an enhanced speech component. A method for detecting the exclusive presence of a low air alarm noise may be used to determine when to update the filter. A triple filter adaptive noise cancellation method may provide improved performance through reduction of filter maladaptation. The speech enhancement techniques may be employed as part of a communication system or a speech recognition system. |
| US08265935B2 |
Method and system for media processing extensions (MPX) for audio and video setting preferences
Device independent Media Processing Extension (MPX) data, corresponding to media data, may be decoded by a media rendering device and may be utilized to determine and/or execute processing steps and/or processing parameters for processing the media data. During the processing and/or rendering, processing steps and/or parameters may be dynamically determined and/or adjusted. A user preference profile, media rendering device profile and/or media rendering environment profile may be utilized to generate, store and/or restore MPX data. Furthermore, MPX data that may be input by a user, manufacturer or a vendor, may be stored in a plurality of ways, for example, within a media data file, an external file and/or within an MTP or PTP object property associated the media data. The media data may comprise one or more of video data, still image data and audio data, for example. |
| US08265930B1 |
System and method for recording voice data and converting voice data to a text file
The present invention relates to recording voice data using a voice communication device connected to a communication network and converting the voice data into a text file for delivery to a text communication device. In accordance with the present invention, the voice communication device may transfer the voice data in real-time or store the voice data on the device to be transmitted at a later time. Transcribing the voice data into a text file may be accomplished by automated computer software, either speaker-independent or speaker-dependent or by a human who transcribes the voice data into a text file. After transcribing the voice data into a text file, the text file may be delivered to a text communication device in a number of ways, such as email, file transfer protocol (FTP), or hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP). |
| US08265928B2 |
Geotagged environmental audio for enhanced speech recognition accuracy
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for enhancing speech recognition accuracy. In one aspect, a method includes receiving geotagged audio signals that correspond to environmental audio recorded by multiple mobile devices in multiple geographic locations, receiving an audio signal that corresponds to an utterance recorded by a particular mobile device, determining a particular geographic location associated with the particular mobile device, generating a noise model for the particular geographic location using a subset of the geotagged audio signals, where noise compensation is performed on the audio signal that corresponds to the utterance using the noise model that has been generated for the particular geographic location. |
| US08265927B2 |
Communication system for building speech database for speech synthesis, relay device therefor, and relay method therefor
A relay device 20 duplicates speech data received from a communication terminal that is engaged in voice communication with another communication terminal. The duplicated speech data is transmitted to and is stored at a media processing device 40. Media processing device 40 builds a database for speech synthesis based on the stored speech data. |
| US08265926B2 |
Handheld electronic device and method for disambiguation of compound text input and that employs N-gram data to limit generation of low-probability compound language solutions
A handheld electronic device includes a reduced QWERTY keyboard and is enabled with disambiguation software that is operable to disambiguate compound text input. The device is able to assemble language objects in the memory to generate compound language solutions. The device is able to analyze the combinations of language objects in light of N-gram data stored on the device to avoid proposing low-probability compound language solutions. |
| US08265924B1 |
Multiple language data structure translation and management of a plurality of languages
Techniques are presented for automatic language translation and management. A master language data structure houses information in a base language and houses linkages to the information for translations in a plurality of different languages. The information and translations are created, updated, managed, and distributed from the master language data structure on demand. |
| US08265923B2 |
Statistical machine translation employing efficient parameter training
A statistical machine translation (SMT) system employs a conditional translation probability conditioned on the source language content. A model parameters optimization engine is configured to optimize values of parameters of the conditional translation probability using a translation pool comprising candidate aligned translations for source language sentences having reference translations. The model parameters optimization engine adds candidate aligned translations to the translation pool by sampling available candidate aligned translations in accordance with the conditional translation probability. |
| US08265922B2 |
Method and apparatus for applying translation memory in automatic translation system
A translation-memory application method for automatic translation includes: generating TM-expanded forms by applying TM expansion rules respectively to source sentences whose morphemes have been analyzed; storing in an expanded TM database translated sentences corresponding to the generated TM-expanded source sentences; analyzing morphemes if an input sentence does not match any of the source sentences stored in basic TM database; generating a TM-expanded form by applying pertinent ones among the TM expansion rules to the input sentence whose morphemes have been analyzed; and producing, if the TM-expanded input sentence matches one of the TM-expanded source sentences stored in the expanded TM database, a translated output corresponding to the matched TM-expanded source sentence. |
| US08265921B2 |
Systems and methods for concurrently emulating multiple channel impairments
Systems and methods are provided for concurrently emulating multiple channel impairments. The systems and methods may include storing a plurality of channel impairment profiles, where each channel impairment profile corresponds to a respective channel impairment type; receiving a selection of two or more of the plurality of channel profiles; generating a composite impairment profile by combining the selected two or more channel profiles, the composite profile specifying time-variant impairments, the composite profile reflecting a combination of the respective impairment types of the selected channel profiles; and applying the time-variant impairments specified by the composite profile to an input real-time data stream to generate an impaired real-time data stream, where a timing of the application of the time-variant impairments is based at least in part upon timing data from a real-time clock. |
| US08265916B1 |
Test environment for accumulating cumulative metric data
A method for testing a system under test includes defining a test having a number of test elements where at least one of the test elements corresponds to a simulation model with a metric setting. A test vector is defined for the test, and it is used to determine a number of test iterations. The metric setting of the simulation model is mapped to a test variable, and when the test is run metric data is generated from the simulation model during each test iteration. The metric data generated for each test iteration is accumulated and displayed. |
| US08265913B2 |
Electromagnetic surveying
A method of analysing results from a controlled source electromagnetic survey of a region of interest containing a previously identified geological structure suitable for bearing hydrocarbons is described. The method comprises providing a first survey data set obtained outside the region of interest, i.e. off-target, for a range of source-receiver orientations and offsets, and providing a second survey data set obtained inside the region of interest, i.e. on target, for a range of source-receiver offsets. The method further comprises performing a mathematical inversion of the first survey data set to provide a model of the subterranean strata outside the region of interest, and processing the second survey data set to provide a model of the subterranean strata inside the region of interest, wherein the processing of the second survey data set takes account of the results of the inversion of the first survey data set. |
| US08265912B2 |
Method for modeling a mounting assembly and a mounting assembly
The present disclosure is directed to a computer-implemented method for modeling a mounting assembly having a mounting strap configured to couple a component to a bracket. The method includes modeling a loosened configuration of the mounting strap, wherein the loosened configuration provides a first substantially continuous curvature of portions of the mounting strap engaged with the bracket and the component. The method also includes applying simulated stresses to the mounting strap in the loosened configuration and outputting failure mode information of the mounting strap based on the simulated stresses on the mounting strap. |
| US08265910B2 |
Display of modeled magnetic fields
Methods and systems for modeling and displaying magnetic field intensities during Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) are described, particularly methods and system for modeling and displaying TMS using overlapping magnetic fields to stimulate deep brain regions. |
| US08265907B2 |
System and a method for physiological monitoring
A personal health monitor, including: (a) a physiological data input device operative to gather physiological data; (b) a detachable module that is detachably connected to a multi-purpose personal data accessory, operative to transmit the physiological data to the multi-purpose personal data accessory; and (c) the multi-purpose personal data accessory, whereas the multi-purpose personal data accessory is adapted to execute health monitoring software such as to enable the multi-purpose personal data accessory to receive the physiological data, process the physiological data to provide processed physiological data and control a long range transmission of the processed physiological data to a remote entity. |
| US08265905B2 |
Automated benchmarking of software performance
Methods for automated benchmarking of views of one or more windows of an application. The methods analyzes content of a window to benchmark views in the window automatically once a target application and/or target window have been specified for benchmarking by a user. Benchmarking is performed without requiring the addition or modification of any code in the target application. Views of a window may be analyzed directly through the window or through a view list or view hierarchy associated with the window. In some embodiments, views of a window are benchmarked through the application that creates the window. In some embodiments, a window is benchmarked directly through a resource file that defines the window without use of an application. In some embodiments, the method benchmarks one or more commands of a data file. In some embodiments, one or more introspectable objects in a collection is automatically benchmarked. |
| US08265903B2 |
Method for assessing data worth for analyzing yield rate
A method for assessing data worth for analyzing yield rate includes: getting measured data with data points that corresponds to control variables of semiconductor manufacturing; transforming the data points into a distance matrix with matrix distances corresponding to differences of the data points under the control variables; expressing sample differences recorded in the distance matrix by two-dimension vectors and calculating similarity degrees of the two-dimension vectors and the distance matrix so as to take loss information as a conversion error value; calculating discriminant ability of the transformed two-dimension data and expressing the discriminant ability by an error rate of discriminant; and taking the conversion error value and the error rate of discriminant as penalty terms and calculating a quality score corresponding to the measured data. Thereby, before analyzing the yield rate of semiconductor manufacturing, analysts can determine whether data includes information affecting the yield rate based on the quality score. |
| US08265899B2 |
Automatic procedure for merging tracks and estimating harmonic combs
The present invention relates to the field of data merging, the term “data” encompassing “observation data”. It relates notably to the data obtained from processing of sonar, radar or optronic signals. The subject of the invention is a method for carrying out the spectral merging and characterization of tracks, each track including the data relating to the evolution over time of the bearing position and of the Doppler frequency of an assumed object. This method includes: a first step of merging the initial tracks which correspond substantially to identical observation directions (azimuths); and a second step of frequency analysis of the tracks resulting from merging the initial tracks and of characterizing the merged tracks whose spectrum takes the form of a harmonic comb characteristic of a single real object. The invention finds for example its application in data merging and echo classification, for narrowband passive sonar applications. |
| US08265898B2 |
System and method for verifying a probe tip
A computing system and method verifies a probe tip of a coordinate measuring machine. The computing system simulates a virtual sphere and calculates coordinates of the center of the virtual sphere. The coordinates of first real contact points of the real sphere is obtained to calculate coordinates of the center of the real sphere and coordinates of the ideal contact points of the real sphere. The computing system obtains coordinates of second real contact points of the real sphere is obtained according to the coordinates of the ideal contact points of the real sphere. The radius of the probe tip is calculated according to the coordinates of second real contact points of the real sphere. The computing system determines if the calculated radius of the probe tip falls in an allowable range. |
| US08265896B2 |
Track detection device and track detection method thereof
A track detection device includes an insulating spherical housing including an inner surface, a plurality of electrostatic induction units embedded within the insulating spherical housing and evenly spaced around a center of the insulating spherical housing, a charged ball moveably attracted to the inner surface of the insulating spherical housing, and a processor electrically connected to the plurality of electrostatic induction units. The plurality of electrostatic induction units generate electrical signals when the charged ball rolls along the inner surface at a portion of the insulating spherical housing where the electrostatic induction unit is embedded. The processor is configured for detecting a track of the charged ball moving inside the insulating spherical housing according to the electrical signals. |
| US08265888B2 |
Method and apparatus for enhancing in-situ gas flow measurement performance
An in-situ gas flow measurement controller measures the temperature and rate of pressure drop upstream from a flow control device (FCD). The controller samples the pressure and temperature data and applies the equivalent of a decimating filter to the data to produce filtered data at a slower sampling rate. The controller derives timestamps by counting ticks from the sampling clock of the A/D converter that is sampling the pressure at regular intervals to ensure the timestamps associated with the pressure samples are accurate and do not contain jitter that is associated with software clocks. The controller additionally normalizes the temperature reading to account for power supply fluctuations, filters out noise from the pressure and temperature readings, and excludes data during periods of instability. It calculates the gas flow rate accounting for possible non-linearities in the pressure measurements, and provides the computed gas flow measurement via one of many possible interfaces. |
| US08265884B2 |
Method to measure the elastic modulus and hardness of thin film on substrate by nanoindentation
A method of measuring the elastic modulus and hardness of a thin film on substrate using nanoindentation technique is provided. The method includes calculating a series of experimental corrected stiffness and contact radius pairs associated with one or more presumed parameters and information obtained from a loading curve associated with the thin film and substrate. Also, the method includes calculating a series of theoretical corrected stiffness and contact radius pairs associated with the same one or more presumed parameters and information obtained from the loading curve associated with the thin film and substrate. Furthermore, the method includes using results obtained from the experimental and theoretical corrected stiffness and contact radius pairs to compute the elastic modulus and hardness of the film material. |
| US08265883B2 |
Systems and methods for baseline correction using non-linear normalization
Systems and methods are provided for calibrating emission data or other information signals collected during a polymerase chain reaction (PCR), amplification reaction, assay, process, or other reaction. Calibration of multiple detectable materials can be achieved during a single cycle or run, or during a plurality of runs of the reaction. A reading from every well, container, or other support region of a sample support does not have to be taken. Interpolation can be used to determine values for emission data or other information signals that were not taken, or are unknown, using detected emission data, or other detected information signals. By calibrating the detected emission data and the interpolated data, a more accurate reading of emission data or information signal can be obtained. |
| US08265880B2 |
Gene expression level analyzing method, gene expression level anlayzing program, and gene expression level analyzing device
A gene expression level analyzing method includes the steps of: acquiring expression levels of a plurality of target genes in a target cell every measurement time; extracting a maximum expression level and a minimum expression level from the expression levels of the target genes every measurement time; calculating a correlation coefficient of a frequency distribution of the gene having the maximum expression level at each measurement time and a frequency distribution of the gene having the minimum expression level at each measurement time; and comparing the correlation coefficient with a threshold value of the correlation coefficient. |
| US08265878B2 |
Method for rapid detection and identification of bioagents
Method for detecting and identifying unknown bioagents, including bacteria, viruses and the like, by a combination of nucleic acid amplification and molecular weight determination using primers which hybridize to conserved sequence regions of nucleic acids derived from a bioagent and which bracket variable sequence regions that uniquely identify the bioagent. The result is a “base composition signature” (BCS) which is then matched against a database of base composition signatures, by which the bioagent is identified. |
| US08265875B2 |
Interpolation of periodic data
A method for interpolating data. The method includes receiving data acquired at one or more locations where the data represents subterranean formations in the earth. The method also includes selecting one or more of the locations such that the selected locations are within a vicinity of an interpolation location. Next, the method includes forming a matrix of interpolation coefficients based on a first function having one or more interpolation variables, a bandwidth for an interpolation operator and one or more differences between the selected locations, wherein at least one of the interpolation variables is periodic. The method then includes forming a differences vector based on a second function having the interpolation variables, the bandwidth and one or more differences between the selected locations and the interpolation location. Using the matrix of interpolation coefficients and the differences vector, the method then forms an interpolation operator vector by applying an inverse of the matrix of interpolation coefficients to the differences vector. The method then estimates a data value for the interpolation location using the interpolation operator vector. |
| US08265871B1 |
Mobile record information entry and geotagging
Mobile record information entry and geotagging methods and systems are disclosed. A method for managing an accurate collection of geographical information system (GIS) data over the World Wide Web from a plurality of mobile computing devices operated by different users at various locations in a geographical area is disclosed. A browser may allow a user of a mobile computing device to enter record information associated with businesses based on observations made at different locations and may add geographical tags to the record information to obtain geotagged record information. The geographical tags may include geospatial location information that specifies the current geographical location of a mobile computing device at the time of user entry. GIS data may be updated based on the geotagged record information received from the browser. |
| US08265868B2 |
Broadcast receiver and method of processing data
A broadcast receiver and a method of processing data are disclosed. The broadcast receiver includes a signal receiving unit, a position information module, and a navigation unit. The signal receiving unit receives broadcast signal multiplexed mobile broadcast service data including traffic information and main broadcast service data. The position information module searches and generates a current position information of the broadcast receiver. The navigation unit assigns a weight to each link of a route to a destination based on the current position information received and the traffic information included in the mobile broadcast service data and searches for a bypass route based on the weighted link, and then performs route guidance using at least one of current route and the bypass route. |
| US08265865B2 |
Method for visualizing geographic data
In a method for visualizing geographic data using at least two-dimensional objects, at least one surface of the objects is covered with at least one texture, which texture is dynamically assigned to the at least one surface of the objects as a function of at least one input factor. |
| US08265862B1 |
System, method, and computer program product for communicating location-related information
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for communicating location-related information. In operation, a vehicular assembly is utilized to communicate with a mobile device. Additionally, a location of a vehicle associated with the vehicular assembly is identified, utilizing the vehicular assembly. Furthermore, information based on the location is generated. Still yet, the information is communicated utilizing the mobile device. |
| US08265860B2 |
Stop-start control apparatus for internal combustion engine
The stop-start control apparatus (20) is applied to the spark ignition type internal combustion engine (1), stops the internal combustion engine 1 in a case that a prescribed stop condition is fulfilled, and restarts the internal combustion engine (1) in a case that a prescribed restart condition is fulfilled. The control apparatus cuts spark ignition for the internal combustion engine 1 in response to the fulfillment of the stop condition, and carries on fuel supply to the internal combustion engine (1). When a restart condition is fulfilled after the fulfillment of a stop condition and prior to a complete stop of the internal combustion engine (1), the control apparatus restarts the internal combustion engine (1) by resuming spark ignition for the internal combustion engine (1) in order that fuel supplied after the fulfillment of the stop condition burns. |
| US08265859B2 |
Method and system for pre-ignition control
Methods and systems are provided for mitigating engine pre-ignition based on a feed-forward likelihood of pre-ignition and feedback from a pre-ignition event. In response to an indication of pre-ignition, a cylinder may be enriched while an engine load is limited. The enrichment may be followed by an enleanment to restore exhaust catalyst feed-gas oxygen levels. The mitigating steps may be adjusted based on engine operating conditions, a pre-ignition count, as well as the nature of the pre-ignition. |
| US08265855B2 |
Methods and systems for mobile carbon dioxide monitoring
A telematics device coupled to vehicle onboard computer system calculates carbon dioxide output of the vehicle. The device uses inputs from existing vehicle performance and parameter sensors, such as speed, fuel efficiency, mass air flow and oxygen present in the vehicle's exhaust, to calculate carbon dioxide output. Speed divided by fuel efficiency results in gallons per hour. An emmission factor, EF, multiplied by the gallons per hour results in weight of carbon dioxide produced by the vehicle per hour. Dividing EF by the efficiency results in pounds per mile. Using input from the mass air flow and oxygen sensors, with an approximation of gasoline molecular weight may produce more accurate results without using EF. If the sensors do not provide values in the units needed, a calibration curve for the mass air flow sensor and oxygen sensor may be used. The telematics device can display the results or upload them. |
| US08265851B2 |
Method of controlling engine performance
The present invention provides a method of controlling engine performance that includes obtaining at least one optical wavelength-dependent measurement from at least one combustion event in at least one combustion chamber. The method further includes analyzing the optical wavelength-dependent measurement for determining adjustments to the at least one combustion event. Additionally, the method includes adjusting the at least one combustion event or at least a next combustion event by changing at least one physical parameter, at least one constituent parameter, or at least one physical parameter and at least one constituent parameter to control the engine performance. The engine can include steady-flow engines or periodic flow engines, and the engine performance can be selected by an engine user. |
| US08265850B2 |
Method and apparatus for target vehicle following control for adaptive cruise control
A host vehicle's speed is controlled with a target vehicle following control system when following a target vehicle. The target vehicle following control system monitors a range with respect to a target vehicle and a speed of the host vehicle. The target vehicle following device determines operation of the vehicle based upon a control region by comparing the range and the speed of the host vehicle to a simple sliding surface, which defines a minimum range between the host vehicle and target vehicle and a modified sliding surface, which increases the margin to the simple sliding surface as the speed of the host vehicle increases. The host vehicle has an acceleration determined based on the control region and is used to control operation of the host vehicle. |
| US08265849B2 |
Drive system for electrically driven dump truck
A drive system of an electrically driven dump truck is capable of achieving an operational feeling in which the operation amount of the accelerator pedal is well balanced with the output horsepower of the electric motors, particularly at the time of slow traveling. To achieve this, the target motor output horsepower Pm0 corresponding to the operation amount of an accelerator pedal 1 is calculated. The target motor torque Tr1R, Tr1L is calculated on the basis of the target motor output horsepower Pm0 and the rotational speed ωR, ωL of electric motors 12R, 12L respectively. The acceleration torque limit values of the electric motors 12R, 12L corresponding to the operation amount of the accelerator pedal 1 are calculated, respectively. Then, smaller values are selected, as motor torque instruction values TrR, TrL, between the acceleration torque limit value and the target motor torque Tr1R, Tr1L to control inverters 73R, 73L, respectively. |
| US08265846B2 |
Method for operating a vehicle brake system
A method for reducing or mitigating the effects of vibration in a vehicle brake system, particularly those that can lead to brake groan or other unwanted noise. According to an exemplary embodiment, when the vehicle brake system detects certain vibratory conditions, it makes slight braking adjustments (e.g., adjustments to fluid pressure, brake force, brake torque, etc.) that are aimed to address the brake groan. The vehicle brake system can then determine the effectiveness of the braking adjustments and, if need be, make additional braking adjustments. The method is particularly well suited for use with brake-by-wire systems, but can be used with a number of different vehicle braking systems. |
| US08265845B2 |
Right-left driving force control system
A right-left driving force control system includes: a selecting unit which: selects an adjusting unit adjusting distribution of a driving force between right and left wheels, when a shifting direction in which the driving force is shifted between the wheels and which is related to a control amount is the same as a first direction towards one of the wheels which has a larger speed; selects a limiting unit adjusting a differential action limiting force, when the shifting direction is the same as a second direction towards one of the wheels which has a smaller speed, and a difference between the wheel speeds is equal to or larger than a threshold value; and maintains the adjusting unit or the limiting unit, which has been selected, when the shifting direction is the same as the second direction, and the difference between the wheel speeds is less than the threshold value; and a control unit which controls the adjusting unit or the limiting unit, which is selected or maintained by the selecting unit, based on the control amount. |
| US08265840B2 |
Control device for automatic transmission
A control device for an automatic transmission is disclosed wherein a shift point depending on a variation in vehicle acceleration is modified on a real time basis in accordance with not only a corrected result on a shift point depending on piece-to-piece variations of automatic transmissions, but also actual acceleration for shortening a time required for learning with high precision with no need to be matched. Shift point real-time modifying means is provided for modifying the altered shift point based on a value of a ratio between a value of actual engine-rotation acceleration at an upshift-determining timing during a power-on running and a value of reference engine-rotation acceleration obtained by substituting a value of actual engine-rotation acceleration to a value for a reference running state having no impact on acceleration of a vehicle, and a target maximum engine rotation speed. |
| US08265837B2 |
Positive open grain saving unloading system
An unloading system for an agricultural harvesting machine for reducing grain loss by detaining a grain saver door after movement to a fully open position during the unloading process, and by rapidly returning the door to a closed position with sufficient force for urging grain in the door area back into an unloading tube a predetermined time after the unloading process pauses or ceases. The system can advantageously detain the door in the open position in the presence of varying or reduced amounts of grain for increasing consistency and cohesiveness in the flow discharging grain and reduce the amount of grain remaining near a discharge end of the unloading tube when the door is in the closed position. |
| US08265836B2 |
Load weight measuring device for a multi-stage mast forklift truck
A load weight measuring device for a multi-stage mast forklift truck has a mast assembly, an oil passage, a flow regulator valve, a pressure sensor, a detecting device, a memory, a selector, and a calculator. The mast assembly has a lift bracket for receiving a load weight, a multi-stage mast unit having masts, and a multi-stage lift cylinder unit having lift cylinders each having an oil chamber for raising the lift bracket along the masts. Hydraulic oil flows in the oil passage. The pressure sensor detects a pressure of hydraulic oil and outputs a pressure signal. The detecting device detects a state which stage of the lift cylinder raises the lift bracket and outputs a detection signal. The memory stores predetermined parameters from which the selector selects the parameter based on the detection signal. The calculator calculates the load weight based on the selected parameter and the pressure signal. |
| US08265834B2 |
Sensor system for vehicle
A sensor system has object detection sensors 4 which are mounted on door mirrors 2 and have a parking space search mode for searching for an object within ranges extending laterally from a vehicle 14, and a vehicle monitoring mode for searching for an object in rear lateral sides of the vehicle 14 by folding and retracting the door mirrors 2; and a control section 7 for causing the object detection sensors 4 to be driven when the vehicle 14 travels at a speed equal to or less than a prescribed value, and for making a search frequency of the object detection sensors 4 higher in the parking space search mode than in the vehicle monitoring mode. |
| US08265832B2 |
Vehicle comprising a spring-mounted vehicle seat and a spring-mounted vehicle cab, and suspension method
There is described a vehicle comprising a spring-mounted vehicle seat (3; 13) in a spring-mounted vehicle cab (2; 12), wherein the vehicle seat (3; 13) is spring-mounted by means of at least one first spring element (24) and/or one first damping element (25) relative to the vehicle cab (2; 12) in the vehicle height and/or vehicle length and/or vehicle width direction, and the vehicle cab (2; 12) is spring-mounted by means of at least one second spring element (15) and/or second damping element (14) relative to a vehicle frame (11) in the vehicle height and/or vehicle length and/or vehicle width direction, comprising a control device (34) which, as a function of a first measured acceleration value of an excursion of the vehicle frame (11), causes a first application of force for regulating the excursion of the first spring element (24) and/or damping element (25) and a second application of force for regulating the excursion of the second spring element (15) and/or the functional element (14), in mutual dependence on one another. A method for the suspension of such a vehicle is also described. |
| US08265830B2 |
Steering control method, steering control device, and watercraft
A watercraft includes an operating method in which a present steering wheel rotational angle is detected, and a steering wheel rotational angle variation is calculated by subtracting a steering wheel rotational angle in a preceding control period from the steering wheel rotational angle. Next, a steering angle ratio is set. A target steering angle variation is calculated by multiplying the steering wheel rotational angle variation by the steering angle ratio. Finally, a target steering angle in a present period is calculated by adding the target steering angle variation to a target steering angle in a preceding control period. A steering device is steered based on the target steering angle. The operating method operates to prevent a rider of a watercraft from feeling uncomfortable in the watercraft which has an electric steering mechanism when either a steering wheel or a steering device is turned in a state when a power supply is turned off or a case when steering wheel rotational angles of a plurality of operating stations differ from each other. |
| US08265825B2 |
Suspension system
A suspension system including: (a) a vibration obtaining device configured to obtain vertical vibration of each of at least one of a sprung portion and an unsprung portion of a vehicle; (b) a processing device configured to subject the obtained vibration to a phase advance processing, and having a plurality of characteristics different from each other with respect to a degree by which a phase of the obtained vibration is advanced; (c) a characteristic selector configured to select one of the plurality of characteristics, based on frequency of the obtained vibration of each of at least one of the sprung and unsprung portions, whereby the obtained vibration is subjected to the phase advance processing that is performed in accordance with the selected one of the plurality of characteristics of the processing device; and (d) a suspension controller configured to control a suspension disposed between the sprung and unsprung portions, based on the vibration subjected to the phase advance processing. |
| US08265822B2 |
In-vehicle equipment control device and in-vehicle equipment setting method using the device
A disclosed in-vehicle equipment control device “S” includes input units 2 and 3 for increasing and decreasing a set value of in-vehicle equipment, and a set value increase/decrease halting unit 13 for stopping the increase/decrease of the set value when the set value reaches a prescribed value after being increased and decreased by the input units 2 and 3. Further, the in-vehicle equipment control device “S” may further include a set value increase/decrease resuming unit 14 for resuming increasing or decreasing the set value when an input of the input unit 2 or 3 is continued after the increase or decrease of the set value is stopped by the set value increase/decrease halting unit 13. |
| US08265818B2 |
Open architecture command system
A command and control system is provided including a core unit, with a processor and a map display engine. The core unit is configured to exchange information with a multi-domain heterogeneous unmanned vehicle command and control module, a multi-sensor command and control module, and an asset tracking module. The asset tracking module estimates a location of an indeterminate object. A control unit exchanges information with an input device. A detecting unit detects modules that are associated with the core unit. A subscription unit logs parameters associated with the detected modules and determines types of data to send to the detected units based on the parameters. A script unit receives and implements command and control scripts for the detected modules. A display output provides display information of a combined representation of information from the detected modules and map information, including locations of the vehicles and sensors under control and the estimated location of the indeterminate object. |
| US08265817B2 |
Inertial measurement with an imaging sensor and a digitized map
The present invention relates to a system and method for determining vehicle attitude and position from image data detected by sensors in a vehicle. The invention uses calculated differences between the locations of selected features in an image plane and the location of corresponding features in a terrain map to determine the attitude of the vehicle carrying the sensors with respect to a ground frame of reference. |
| US08265813B2 |
Method and control architecture for optimization of engine fuel-cutoff selection and engine input torque for a hybrid powertrain system
There is provided a method and article of manufacture for operating an internal combustion engine adapted to transmit torque to a hybrid transmission. The method comprises determining an engine input torque transmittable to the hybrid transmission for a plurality of engine states, the engine states comprising a fueled-engine operation and an engine fuel-cutoff operation. Costs are determined costs for operating the engine and hybrid transmission in the engine states to substantially meet an operator torque request. The engine state is controlled to one of the fueled-engine operation and the engine fuel-cutoff operation based upon the costs. |
| US08265806B2 |
Method for updating meteorological information for an aircraft
Described is a method of updating meteorological information for an aircraft, which includes automatically providing a request by an on board computer (FMS, flight management system) for the meteorological data so as to anticipate the updating of the latter as soon as an update is available. This automation allows the crew to have the data ready for display and use without waiting, to reduce and smooth the workload of the crew by anticipating the request and the processing of these data, and to limit the potential confusion associated with the receipt, hitherto verbal, of the ATIS (Air Traffic Information Service) information. |
| US08265795B2 |
Mass flow controller
To improve PI performance of a mass flow controller, the mass flow controller changes a proportional coefficient, an integral coefficient, and a derivative coefficient used for PID operation in a stable state based on at least two out of a primary pressure, a time change amount of the primary pressure, and a flow rate set value. |
| US08265794B2 |
Knowledge based valve control method
A method associated with a valve controller configured to capture dynamic process conditions for monitoring, diagnosing and maintaining a valve assembly through knowledge-based valve performance criteria. The method includes determining the open and closed positions of a process valve. Measuring the peak torque value required by an actuator to open and close the process valve. Measuring the supply and exhaust pressure required by an actuator to open and close the valve. Determining a deviation zone associated with the peak torque value to open the valve where an alarm is triggered when the torque value falls outside the deviation zone. Creating the dynamic baseline over Nth process cycles when the valve is installed in-line. |
| US08265790B2 |
Method and system for planning/guiding alterations to a bone
A computer-assisted surgery system for planning/guiding alterations to a bone in surgery, comprises a trackable member adapted to be secured to the bone. The trackable member has a first inertial sensor unit producing orientation-based data for at least two degrees of freedom in orientation of the trackable member A positioning block is adapted to be secured to the bone, with at least an orientation of the positioning block being adjustable once the positioning block is secured to the bone to reach a selected orientation at which the positioning block is used to guide tools in altering the bone. The positioning block has a second inertial sensor unit producing orientation-based data for at least two degrees of freedom in orientation of the positioning block. A processing system providing an orientation reference associating the bone to the trackable member comprises a signal interpreter for determining an orientation of the trackable member and of the positioning block from the orientation-based data. A parameter calculator calculates alteration parameters related to an actual orientation of the positioning block with respect to the bone as a function of the orientation reference and of the orientation of the positioning block. |
| US08265785B2 |
External load port magazine and storage system and method of using same
An external load port magazine for use with a storage unit includes a casing detachably mountable on an exterior of the storage unit and defining therein a space for holding at least one item to be loaded into the storage unit. An opening is formed in the casing for enabling automatic withdrawal or insertion of the at least one item from or into the space when the casing is mounted on the exterior of the storage unit. A mechanism is provided for moving the at least one stored item towards the opening. |
| US08265781B2 |
Monitoring unit for a device for manipulating containers
A device for manipulating containers, comprising a manipulation unit manipulating the containers in a predetermined manner, this manipulation unit including at least one condition detection unit which detects at least one operating condition of the manipulation unit and sends out condition signals which are characteristic for this operating condition of the manipulation unit, and including a monitoring unit for monitoring the manipulation unit, the monitoring unit including a visual display device for displaying information as well as a storage device in which presentation data for components of the manipulation unit is deposited. According to the invention, the monitoring unit includes an image manipulation unit which as a response to emitted condition signals provides image sequences on the basis of presentation data stored on the storage device, which image sequences may be output via the display device. |
| US08265779B2 |
Automatic backlash estimation
A method is disclosed for automatic estimation of backlash in a control system which includes a controller and a process to be controlled, wherein said controller is capable of performing integrating control of said process using one or more controller parameters to control a process output signal of said process with respect to a setpoint value thereof. The method involves monitoring said process output signal to determine a value reflecting momentary differences between setpoint value and actual value of said process output signal during a time interval; and estimating the backlash from said determined value and said one or more controller parameters. |
| US08265778B2 |
Event prediction using hierarchical event features
Event prediction using hierarchical event features is described. In an embodiment a search engine monitors search results presented to users and whether users click on those search results. For example, features describing the search result events are universal resource locator prefix levels which are inherently hierarchically related. In an embodiment a graphical data structure is created and stored and used to represent the hierarchical relationships between features. An online training process is used in examples which enables knowledge to be propagated through the graphical data structure according to the hierarchical relations between features. In an example, the graphical data structure is used to predict whether a user will click on a search result and those predictions are used by the search engine to rank search results for future searches. In another example the events are advertisement impressions and the predictions are used by an online advertisement system. |
| US08265777B2 |
Pervasive model adaptation: the integration of planning and information gathering in dynamic production systems
A computer-based method and system for pervasive model adaptation are provided. The method includes providing a production plan to a production system, executing the production plan in the production system, collecting observation data produced by at least one sensor in the production system during execution of the production plan into computer memory, calculating changes to be made to a system model in the computer memory based on the collected observation data, dynamically updating the system model according to the calculated changes, creating an updated production plan based at least partially on the dynamically updated system model, and storing the updated production plan within the computer memory. |
| US08265773B2 |
Electrode assembly having a flexible tip
A cochlear implant electrode assembly device comprising an elongate electrode carrier member, a stiffening element, and a stiffening sheath that at least partially envelops the elongate member. The member is made of a resiliently flexible first material and has a plurality of electrodes mounted thereon. The member has a first configuration that allows it to be inserted into an implantee's cochlea. The member also has a second configuration wherein the member is curved to match an inside surface of the cochlea, and at least one intermediate configuration between the first and second configurations. Both the stiffening element and sheath are made of a material that is relatively stiffer than the member. The stiffening element and the stiffening sheath in combination bias the elongate member into the first configuration. If either the stiffening element or the stiffening sheath is removed or deactivated, the elongate member adopts an intermediate configuration. |
| US08265770B2 |
Driver circuitry switchable between energy transfer and telemetry for an implantable medical device
An external device, charge, system and method for an implantable medical device having therapeutic componentry, a secondary coil operatively coupled to the therapeutic componentry and an internal telemetry coil. A primary coil is capable of inductively energizing the secondary coil when externally placed in proximity of the secondary coil. An external telemetry coil is capable of communicating with the internal telemetry coil. Driver circuitry is selectively operatively coupled to the primary coil and to the external telemetry coil. The driver circuitry is switchable between (1) driving the primary coil for inductively energizing the secondary coil and (2) driving the external telemetry coil for communicating with the internal telemetry coil. |
| US08265766B1 |
Methods and systems of automatically detecting an impedance of one or more electrodes in a cochlear implant system
Methods and systems for automatically detecting an impedance of one or more electrodes in a cochlear implant system include providing an implantable cochlear stimulator coupled to one or more electrodes, generating an electrical stimulation current with the implantable cochlear stimulator in accordance with stimulation parameters, automatically detecting an impedance of at least one of the electrodes in accordance with a predefined schedule, and performing a predefined action in accordance with the detected impedance. |
| US08265761B2 |
Cranial-electro stimulator
A method of reducing muscle pain in a person by removably attaching an electrode to each ear on a person's head and connecting the electrodes to receive a modified pulse signal from a computer or a digital port. The signal from the computer or the digital port are rectangular voltage pulses of “1s” and “0s” at varying frequencies. The rectangular pulse signal from the computer or digital port is modified to have at least the leading square corner of each rectangular voltage pulse rounded before it is sent to the electrodes. A method of randomizing the stimulus at about 100 Hz for improved sleep and an alternate method of randomizing stimuli for the neurological reduction of perceived pain and a similar method for reducing pain output from a muscle and its associated tissues directly. |
| US08265760B2 |
Devices and methods for treatment of heart failure and associated conditions
Devices and methods of use identification, treatment, and/or management of heart failure and/or associated conditions. Methods may include providing a baroreflex therapy system, providing an implantable measurement device proximate a blood vessel of a patient, the implantable measurement device including a plurality of electrodes, determining an impedance of the blood vessel with the implantable measurement device over a time period of at least one cardiac cycle, generating at least one signal representative of a pressure waveform based on the impedance, activating, deactivating or otherwise modulating the baroreflex therapy system to deliver a therapy to treat heart failure based at least in part on the at least one signal representative of the pressure waveform. |
| US08265757B2 |
Regulatory compliant transmission of medical data employing a patient implantable medical device and a generic network access device
Various embodiments concern a method which may include communicating medical information between a PIMD and an interface module via a first channel in compliance with a predetermined medical information regulatory standard, preventing access to the PIMD via the interface module other than through the first channel, detecting a communication protocol used by an available generic network access device, selecting a communication protocol rule set from a plurality of communication protocol rule sets to effect communication between the interface device and an available generic network access device of a plurality of generic network access devices, and transferring at least some of the medical information to the remote network via a second channel established between the interface module and the available generic network access device using the selected communication protocol rule set. |
| US08265753B2 |
Data-driven pattern detection of implantable medical device data
Detecting patterns in sensed implantable medical device (IMD) data is described. One implementation involves an IMD that includes a data-driven pattern detection network embodied on the IMD to detect a pattern from sensed patient data. The IMD also includes one or more algorithms embodied on the IMD to utilize the pattern to effect patient therapy. |
| US08265746B2 |
System and method for providing feedback control in a vestibular stimulation system
A method is generally described which includes a method for altering a user's motional response to sound. The method includes receiving a sound produced by a sound device capable of producing sound and the sound device in communication with a sound data source. The sound data source includes information associated with at least one set of sounds. The method also includes detecting movement by a feedback sensor device and compared to information from an information source including information associated with at least one characteristic of the at least one set of sounds, and the comparison information being provided to a control program, the control program having a control algorithm configured to generate control data based on the comparison. Further, the method includes receiving current, by a vestibular system, from electrical contacts coupled to a current source, the current delivered being based on the control data and output control signals. Further still, the method includes causing alteration of the created movement in response to the current. |
| US08265744B2 |
Systems and methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments
The present invention involves systems and related methods for performing surgical procedures and assessments, including the use of neurophysiology-based monitoring to: (a) determine nerve proximity and nerve direction to surgical instruments employed in accessing a surgical target site; (b) assess the pathology (health or status) of a nerve or nerve root before, during, or after a surgical procedure; and/or (c) assess pedicle integrity before, during or after pedicle screw placement, all in an automated, easy to use, and easy to interpret fashion so as to provide a surgeon-driven system. |
| US08265742B2 |
Method, computer program, and system for automated real-time signal analysis for detection, quantification, and prediction of signal changes
A method, computer program, and system for real-time signal analysis providing characterization of temporally-evolving densities and distributions of signal features of arbitrary-type signals in a moving time window by tracking output of order statistic filters (also known as percentile, quantile, or rank-order filters). Given a raw input signal of arbitrary type, origin, or scale, the present invention enables automated quantification and detection of changes in the distribution of any set of quantifiable features of that signal as they occur in time. Furthermore, the present invention's ability to rapidly and accurately detect changes in certain features of an input signal can also enable prediction in cases where the detected changes associated with an increased likelihood of future signal changes. |
| US08265737B2 |
Methods and devices for identifying overdetection of cardiac signals
Methods, systems, and devices for signal analysis in an implanted cardiac monitoring and treatment device such as an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. In illustrative examples, sensed data including detected events is analyzed to identify likely overdetection of cardiac events. In some illustrative examples, when overdetection is identified, data may be modified to correct for overdetection, to reduce the impact of overdetection, or to ignore overdetected data. |
| US08265735B2 |
Apparatus and method for imaging anterior eye part by optical coherence tomography
An optical coherence tomography (OCT) anterior eye part imaging apparatus includes a tomographic image obtaining unit obtaining a tomographic image of an anterior eye part of subject's eye in a depth direction by optical coherence tomography, an imaging unit imaging a frontal image of subject's eye, a display unit displaying the image of subject's eye, a corneal apex location detecting unit detecting a location of subject's eye, an alignment unit moving an apparatus body relative to the holder so that the location of corneal apex corresponds with a predetermined image obtaining location, a designating unit designating an area or a location where the tomographic image is obtained on subject's frontal image displayed on the display unit, and a scan line setting unit setting a scan line in the tomographic image obtaining unit on a straight line passing the corneal apex according to the designated area or location. |
| US08265733B2 |
Injector and method for facilitating imaging of a patient
To facilitate imaging of a patient two different image recording methods are to be carried out at the same time. An auxiliary fluid, for example a contrast medium or a tracer, may be introduced into the body in each image recording method. The invention proposes mixing the two auxiliary fluids in situ immediately before dispensing to the patient. For this purpose it provides an injector with which the auxiliary fluids may be mixed and supplied to the patient. Devices for controlling dispensing of fluid from containers connected to the injector to produce a mixed solution may be electronically controlled by a control unit which calculates the total quantities, and optionally sub-quantities, of auxiliary fluids, which are used for a mixed solution, before activating the devices. |
| US08265731B2 |
Apparatus and method for aligning a light pointer with a medical interventional device trajectory
A pointing light device includes a light pointer, such as a laser pointer; and an elongated pointing member detachably associated with the light pointer. The pointing member contains at least two bead-like members. Also, a method for aligning a light pointer with a predetermined medical interventional device trajectory. The method includes attaching a pointing member to an output end the light pointer to form a movable pointing light device; imaging two or more bead-like members of the pointing member to create live projection images or shadows in the live projection image; projecting at least first and second points associated with the predetermined medical interventional device trajectory onto the live projection image; and moving the pointing light device until the live projection images of the two members are aligned with corresponding ones of the projected first and second points in the live projection image. |
| US08265730B2 |
Assessing the condition of a joint and preventing damage
Methods are disclosed for assessing the condition of a cartilage in a joint, particularly a human knee. The methods include converting an image such as an MRI to a three dimensional map of the cartilage. The cartilage map can be correlated to a movement pattern of the joint to assess the affect of movement on cartilage wear. Changes in the thickness of cartilage over time can be determined so that therapies can be provided. Information on thickness of cartilage and curvature of cartilage or subchondral bone can be used to plan therapy. Information on movement pattern can be used to plan therapy. |
| US08265729B2 |
Third party acquisition of images at the direction of an independent imaging application
A system and method for capturing and displaying images in an ordered manner. An image progression description (IPD) is generated using an imaging software application (ISA). The IPD defines an ordered sequence of image acquisition instruction sets (IAIS) and an image display layout (IDL). The ordered sequence of IAIS is transferred to a portable image acquisition device (PIAD) which reads and sequentially displays the ordered sequence of IAIS. A plurality of images is acquired using the PIAD in accordance with the ordered sequence of IAIS. The plurality of images are transferred back to the ISA and are displayed according to the IDL. |
| US08265727B2 |
Surgical vaporization electrode with an electrode head
A surgical vaporization electrode (1) including an electrode head (2) which in turn is fitted with a functional surface (6) and which is connected at a minimum of one connection site (10) to a feed conductor (3) enclosed by an insulating sheath (4), is characterized in that the surface zone (7) of the electrode head (2) surrounding the connection site (10) is fitted with a ceramic covering (8). |
| US08265725B2 |
Signal processing for continuous analyte sensor
Systems and methods for dynamically and intelligently estimating analyte data from a continuous analyte sensor, including receiving a data stream, selecting one of a plurality of algorithms, and employing the selected algorithm to estimate analyte values. Additional data processing includes evaluating the selected estimative algorithms, analyzing a variation of the estimated analyte values based on statistical, clinical, or physiological parameters, comparing the estimated analyte values with corresponding measure analyte values, and providing output to a user. Estimation can be used to compensate for time lag, match sensor data with corresponding reference data, warn of upcoming clinical risk, replace erroneous sensor data signals, and provide more timely analyte information encourage proactive behavior and preempt clinical risk. |
| US08265721B2 |
Biasing apparatus
An apparatus including a first housing; a second housing slidably connected to the first housing along a substantially straight linear path between a first position and a second position; and a biasing system configured to alternatively bias the second housing towards the first position and the second position. The biasing system includes a linkage connected to the first and second housings and a spring connected between the first housing and the linkage. |
| US08265720B2 |
Sliding device for cellular phone
Disclosed herein is a hinge device for a cellular phone, which has no device housing and thus, can achieve a greater slimness of the cellular phone and reduce the generation of a noise during a sliding operation of a slide body included in the cellular phone. The hinge device includes a first push rod connected to a main body of the cellular phone and having a pin and a pin hole, and a second push rod connected to a slide body of the cellular phone and having a pin and a pin hole. The pin of the first push rod is penetrated through the pin hole of the second push rod, and the pin of the second push rod is penetrated through the pin hole of the first push rod. A spring is provided around each pin. |
| US08265719B2 |
Link mechanism
The present invention concerns a portable electronic apparatus, such as a mobile phone, having an upper part being moveable in relation to a lower part of the apparatus. The movement of the upper part may both be a sliding and a tilting movement. The sliding movement is controlled by means of a sleeve and a guide placed in the upper part of the apparatus. The sleeve is connected to the lower part by means of pair of links at opposite sides of the apparatus. The links are received at opposite ends of each sleeve at fulcrums at the sleeve and lower part, respectively. The links are designed and positioned to give self-locking in at least three distinct positions of the upper part of the portable electronic apparatus in relation to the lower part of the apparatus. |
| US08265716B2 |
Mobile terminal device
A mobile terminal device including a movable side housing includes a movable side front case and a movable side rear case providing an LCD module is provided. The mobile terminal device includes a fixed side housing connected to the movable side housing with a connecting hinge, a frame member integrally fitted on a peripheral portion of the movable side front case, a display panel provided on the frame member by adhering to a peripheral portion of the frame member with double-sided adhesive tape, and a dust-proof sheet member in contact with the frame member, and positioned to an upper surface of the LCD module. |
| US08265715B2 |
Dustproof structure for slide type electronic device and slide type electronic device
There are a first packing 31 and a second packing 32 for covering and sealing a first opening portion 11a and a second opening portion 12a other than a groove portion 31a and a groove portion 32a for leading an FPC 20. The first packing 31 and the second packing 32 wipe surfaces of the FPC 20 corning in and going out of the groove portion 31a and the groove portion 32a by sliding operation of a second frame 12. |
| US08265712B2 |
Multiradio power aware traffic management
A system for managing the operation of a plurality of radio modules integrated within the same wireless communication device. In at least one embodiment of the present invention, time may be allocated for use in communicating over one or more wireless communication mediums. This time may be allocated based on a determination that a maximum power usage threshold will not be exceeded, and that potential communication conflicts may be avoided, over a period of time. The allocation may result in an operational schedule that may be utilized by radio modules in the wireless communication device that support the one or more wireless communication mediums. |
| US08265709B2 |
Single user input mechanism for controlling electronic device operations
A unique input mechanism for controlling several operations of an electronic device is provided. Using the unique input mechanism, which may be the single input mechanism for providing user inputs to the electronic device, a user may provide different inputs or combinations of inputs to control different operations based on the current mode or capacity of the electronic device. For example, a single, short click of a button may control a media operation (e.g., play/pause) in a media mode, and the same input may control a telephony operation (e.g., initiate/terminate call) in a telephony mode. In some embodiments, different inputs may be associated with different types of operations. The unique input mechanism may include, for example, a button, a switch, a key, or an actuator. |
| US08265704B2 |
Character input method of mobile terminal
A mobile terminal includes a display screen to display a screen image of a particular character and a virtual keypad, and to detect touch inputs; and a controller to detect a first touch input of touching the particular character and a second touch input of touching a particular key of the virtual keypad, and to control display of display characters on respective key buttons of the virtual keypad, the display characters having at least one attribute of the particular character, if the first and second inputs are a multi-touch. Because a font of particular character is applied to the display character of the virtual keypad or to a newly input character, characters or numbers can be easily input using the display screen of the mobile terminal. |
| US08265699B2 |
Feedback generation in multiple antenna systems
A quantized multi-rank beamforming scheme for multiple-antenna systems such as a multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) wireless downlink. User equipment (UE) estimates downlink channel and transmit power and determines rank and power allocations. A quantized beamforming matrix is then determined by the UE using successive beamforming. The UE also determines channel quality indices (CQI) which it feeds-back to the wireless downlink base station along with the index of the quantized beamforming matrix. The base station uses the CQI information to select a UE for scheduling of downlink transmission and the quantized beamforming matrix index received from the selected UE to beamform the downlink transmission to the UE. Base station overhead and is minimized while providing near-optimal performance given the constraints of a limited feed-back channel and computational complexity of the UE. |
| US08265696B1 |
Digital telecommunication system
A digital telecommunications system wherein the telecommunications centers of the calling and called terminal are arranged to perform handshaking concerning the speech codec used by the terminals. Depending on the link between the telecommunications centers, the telecommunications centers are arranged to connect call connections past a transcoder unit or to control the transcoder units to let encoded speech through without speech encoding operations in such a way that speech encoding and decoding are carried out only in the terminals. Handshaking between the telecommunications centers is carried out as outband signalling. |
| US08265694B2 |
System and method for storing contact information in document processing devices
The subject application is directed to a system and method for obtaining address data from a portable device to a document processing device. An address book, including address entries accessible via the document processing device, is stored in a data storage associated with a document processing device controller. Selection data is then received from an associated user, following which an address entry is retrieved from the address book. Document processing operations are then commenced in accordance with the retrieved address entries. A portable telecommunication device, proximate to the document processing device, is then discovered via a wireless transceiver. The portable device includes an integrated data storage containing contact data of contact information for contact destinations. After discovery, a data connection is established with the portable telecommunications device over which contact data is received. An entry is then added into the address book corresponding to the received contact data. |
| US08265691B2 |
Enhanced wireless handset, including direct handset-to-handset communication mode
A wireless handset is provided with enhanced features and capabilities. The wireless handset may be embodied as a full-featured handset that is capable of operating either within a wireless network (such as a cellular or PCS network) or in a direct handset-to-handset communication mode that is independent of the wireless network. Alternatively, the wireless handset may be embodied as a special purpose handset, that is capable of simply operating in a direct handset-to-handset communication mode. The wireless handset may additionally include features for supporting and enhancing direct communication between handsets. Such features may include a find feature that permits a user to determine which objects, including other wireless handset users, are located within a predetermined operating range of the wireless handset. A memorize feature may also be provided to permit handsets and other objects exchange information by wireless transmission. |
| US08265687B2 |
Electronic apparatus and control method of same
A mobile phone or other electronic apparatus capable of displaying a bearing and non-contact communication using electromagnetic waves wherein when detection processing of geomagnetism by a geomagnetism sensor and non-contact communication processing using electromagnetic waves are carried out at the same timing, measures are taken since there is a possibility that the geomagnetism detected by the geomagnetism sensor is not correct due to the influence of the electromagnetic waves. Further, when the detection processing of the geomagnetism by the geomagnetism sensor and the non-contact communication processing using electromagnetic waves are carried out at the same timing, bearing processing based on a detection signal of the geomagnetism sensor is restricted or the non-contact communication processing is restricted. |
| US08265686B2 |
System and method for sharing images using an upload menu
There is disclosed a system and method for uploading an image file to an image repository from a mobile handheld communications device having an integrated camera. In an embodiment, the method comprises: upon determining capture of an image using the integrated camera, automatically initiating an image upload module; configuring the image upload module to display an image upload user interface having user selectable image upload settings; and upon receiving user instructions, uploading the image file to the image repository with the selected image upload settings. The upload settings may be preselected and the device may be preauthorized to access an account on the image repository. |
| US08265685B2 |
Method and user equipment in a communication network
The invention relates to a user equipment (600) comprising a receiving unit (606) arranged to receive, when the user equipment (600) is in idle mode, data from a base station indicating an identification of a second cell of a second frequency, a control unit (610) arranged to determine, based on the received data, that the user equipment (600) is not allowed access to the second cell, and, upon determination that the user equipment is not allowed access to the second cell, to perform a cell selection process to change from a present camped first cell of a first frequency to a third cell of a third frequency being different than the first frequency. |
| US08265681B2 |
Outer loop transmit power control in wireless communication systems
Outer-loop power control methods and apparatus are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, a short-term block error rate is measured for a received signal, and a coarse adjustment to a target signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) is calculated as a function of the short-term block error rate, a target block error rate, and a first loop tuning parameter. In some embodiments, a fine adjustment to the target SIR is also calculated, as a function of a smoothed block error rate, the target block error rate, and a second loop tuning parameter. The coarse adjustment provides quick responsiveness to received block errors, while the fine adjustment moderates the coarse adjustments by accounting for a longer-term view of the received block error rate. The target SIR adjustments disclosed herein may be computed in each of several iterations of an outer-loop power control loop. |
| US08265678B2 |
Adaptive application data packaging to improve packet efficiency in a fixed frame packet communication system
A method (400) of communicating data and a communication device (104) that communicates data. At least a first portion of the data can be encoded into at least one frame (202, 204, 208, 210) having a first bit length, and encoding at least a second portion of the data into at least one frame (206, 212) having a second bit length. The method also can include placing the at least one frame having the first bit length and the at least one frame having the second bit length into an adaptive data packet (108) having a fixed bit length and a fixed number of frames. The adaptive data packet can be communicated to a communication device (106). |
| US08265673B2 |
Short message distribution center
A message distribution center (MDC) is interposed between content providers and a wireless carrier to subjectively examine and direct messages via SMTP based on desired rules (e.g., non-peak hours, paying subscribers only, etc.) using standard SMTP Gateway and other well-known protocols. The MDC includes a queue for each subscriber. A provider is informed through conventional SMTP protocol messages when a short message has been accepted. If the carrier has specifically disallowed service for a particular MIN, the content provider is informed through an SMTP interchange that the recipient is invalid. An MDC provides a single mechanism for interacting with subscribers of multiple carriers, regardless of each carrier's underlying infrastructure. An MDC can protect a carrier's SS7 network by intelligently throttling messages and configuring network friendly message delivery parameters. A content provider preferably communicates with the MDC using SMTP protocol messages. The MDC preferably communicates with wireless carriers using RMI/SMPP techniques. |
| US08265663B2 |
Messaging services for pre-pay users
A communication system providing messaging services can have a receiving unit configured to receive a request to send a message, an authorization unit configured to authorize the sending of the message in response to the request, and a transmitting unit configured to transmit the authorization to send the message. |
| US08265662B1 |
Data mode paging in wireless communication networks
What is disclosed is a method of operating a wireless communication system which includes a base station and a wireless communication device in communication over a voice communication link and a data communication link. The method includes, in the wireless communication device, receiving a first page over the voice communication link. The method also includes, in the wireless communication device, entering into a data-only communication mode over the data communication link, where the voice communication link is not monitored by the wireless communication device when in the data-only communication mode, and transferring a page halt message to the base station upon entry into the data-only communication mode, where the page halt message indicates the wireless communication device is halting receipt of further pages over the voice communication link. The method also includes, in the base station, if the page halt message has been received and upon receipt of a second page for delivery to the wireless communication device, transferring the second page over the data communication link. |
| US08265661B2 |
Methods and systems for idle mode operation in multi-mode mobile stations
Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide techniques for a multi-mode mobile station to establish paging intervals in different radio access technology (RAT) networks in an effort to avoid consecutive collisions between paging intervals of a first and a second network. |
| US08265660B1 |
Incoming call processing for mobile stations currently in an access state or paging state
Methods are described for handling an incoming call at a mobile switching center when the mobile station is currently in either an access state (in the process of making an outgoing call) or in a paging state (in the process of receiving an earlier incoming call). The mobile switching center waits until the mobile station transitions out of the access state or paging state into a traffic state. The mobile switching center sends an alert message to the mobile station alerting the user of the new incoming call. The mobile switching center handles the incoming call per a response to the alert message. One option would be to send the new incoming call to the user and drop the other incoming call (or the outgoing call). Another option would be to direct the incoming call to voice mail. In either case, the handling of the incoming call is per the user's direction, i.e., as dictated by the response message. |
| US08265657B2 |
Method and system for device discovery in a wireless video area network
A method and system for device discovery in a wireless network is provided. The device discovery involves directionally transmitting a data unit from a transmitting station over a channel in different directions to emulate omni-directional transmission, receiving the data unit transmissions from different directions at a receiving station, determining the quality of the transmissions received from the different directions, and detecting location information for the transmitting station relative to the receiving station based on the highest quality transmission among the transmissions received from the different directions. Further, if a channel has sufficient bandwidth to satisfy direct link communication between two stations, then during a direct link set-up stage, the two stations conduct a probing message exchange using omni-direction transmission, and upon successful probing, obtain communication link status information and set proper communication configurations for the two stations based on the communication link status information. |
| US08265656B2 |
Positioning technique
A technique for positioning a target object in a wireless communication environment. A data model models several sample points. Each sample point includes a location and a set of expected signal values therein. A set of relevance indicators indicates one or more sets of relevant sample points, which are subsets of the sample points in the data model. Signal values are observed at the target object's location. Based on the signal value observations and the set of relevance indicators, a current set of relevant sample points is determined and used, along with the signal value observations, to estimate the target object's location. Computational burden is reduced because sample points not included in the current set of relevant sample points can be omitted from calculations. |
| US08265655B2 |
Procedure to increase position location availability
A device, method and system are provide which permits the methodology used to make the position determination to change dynamically in connection with achieving a position fix of a desired accuracy. |
| US08265651B2 |
System and apparatus for integrated wireless location detection
An apparatus, system and method are provided for integrated wireless location detection. The system includes a location detection (LD) transmitter that transmits first and second radio frequency signals in first and second formats, respectively. First and second LD receivers, respectively, receive the first and second signals and determine first and second information relating to a location of the LD transmitter. An LD server wirelessly receives the first and second information and calculates the location of the LD transmitter from one of the first and second information. The LD server may receive a signal indicating a preferred one of the first and second information and calculate the location from the preferred one of the first and second information. |
| US08265649B1 |
Method and system for location determination in a composite wireless/landline communication system
A method and system for determining reporting the location of an originating telephone device. A location interoperability platform receives a signaling message from a switch, reflecting a call request from an originating device and carrying data indicating whether the originating device is a landline device or a wireless device. If the data indicates that the originating device is a landline device, then the location interoperability platform invokes a landline location-determination process to determine the location of the originating device. On the other hand, if the data indicates that the originating device is a wireless device, then the location interoperability platform invokes a wireless location-determination process to determine the location of the originating device. The location interoperability platform may then report the determined location to the called party, to help facilitate a location-based service such as emergency response. |
| US08265647B2 |
Communication terminal and device
The present invention enables assignment to a terminal a sub-band having satisfactory communication quality. A reference-signal reception unit receives from a terminal a reference signal spreading over sub-bands. A communication-quality measurement unit measures the communication quality of each of the sub-bands on the basis of the reference signal. A sub-band assignment unit assigns one of the sub-bands to the terminal on the basis of the communication quality, for the terminal to perform wireless communication with the communication device. A reference-signal transmission unit transmits to the communication device a reference signal spreading over the sub-bands. A sub-band-assignment-information reception unit receives information on one of the sub-bands which is assigned to the terminal by the communication device on the basis of the reference signal. A data transmission unit transmits data to the communication device through the sub-band assigned to the terminal. |
| US08265645B2 |
Assigning an access channel based on a timer in a wireless communication system
In a communication system, a wireless access node receives an access request from a wireless communication device. In response, the access node starts an access timer and transfers signaling to the communication system indicating the access request. If the access timer expires before a response to the signaling is received, then the access node provides the wireless communication device with wireless access to the communication system. The access node receives the response to the signaling. If the response is negative and is received before the access timer expires, then the access node denies the access request. If the response is negative and is received after the access timer expires, then the access node terminates the wireless access to the communication system for the wireless communication device. |
| US08265641B2 |
Wireless communication device configured to enter an active state based upon a detection of a potential request for communication session resources
Embodiments are directed to determining whether one or more physical user interactions are present, at a wireless communication device, that indicate a near-future potential communication session resource request. Before the determination, a communication interface of the device is in a dormant state characterized by the device not being permitted to engage in a communication session with a wireless communication network. The device transitions the communication interface, after the determination, from the dormant state to an active state. In the active state, the device performs one or more actions to reduce a delay associated with a transmission of the potential communication session resource request in the event that the potential communication session resource request is actually transmitted by the device. For example, in the active state, the device can power-up or wake-up a radio bearer or modem to reduce a delay before transmission of the potential communication session resource request. |
| US08265639B2 |
System and method for modulation scheme changes
A system and method are disclosed that allow changes of a modulation and coding scheme (MCS) without overhead signaling. A priori, a network device and a user device know the manner in which the MCS will be changed. In one embodiment, the network device indicates the MCS to be used to decode a second portion of a message in a first portion of the message. In another embodiment, the user device blind detects the MCS used over a sub-set of MCSs. |
| US08265637B2 |
Systems and methods for modifying antenna radiation patterns of peripheral base stations of a terrestrial network to allow reduced interference
A wireless communications system may include a terrestrial network including a plurality of base stations providing communications service for radioterminals over a terrestrial network coverage area. The plurality of base stations may include interior base stations providing communications service for radioterminals in an interior portion of the terrestrial network coverage area and peripheral base stations providing communications service for radioterminals at a peripheral portion of the terrestrial network coverage area. At least one of the peripheral base stations provides transmissions directed toward an interior portion of the terrestrial network coverage area with greater power than transmissions directed away from interior portions of the terrestrial network coverage area. Related methods are also discussed. |
| US08265634B1 |
Wireless spectrum valuation
A wireless spectrum valuation system receives input data. The system processes the input data to identify and display a geographic area with a population density greater than the population density threshold. The system calculates and displays a number of cell sites required for an initial deployment in the identified geographic area and calculates a first number of subscribers per cell site. If the first number of subscribers per cell site is greater than a cell site utilization threshold, then the system calculates and displays an additional number of cell sites required for the initial deployment and recalculates a number of subscribers per cell site. The system calculates a number of carriers required per cell site, calculates a cost for the initial deployment, and calculates and displays a value of a wireless spectrum. |
| US08265632B2 |
Radio communication system, movement management method, management apparatus, and base station apparatus
A radio communication system includes a plurality of base station apparatuses. In the radio communication system, the communication areas of the plurality of base station apparatuses are connected in a loop to form a borderline separating the inside and the outside of a management area. The radio communication system detects a mobile terminal which enters the management area by crossing the borderline on the basis of communication between the base station apparatuses and a mobile terminal. |
| US08265631B2 |
Mobile communication method and mobile station
A mobile communication method according to the present invention includes: transmitting, from a mobile station, a retransmission-control applied dedicated physical data channel to which a retransmission control processing is applied and which is configured not to contain any transmission data blocks, when there is no transmission data block that should be transmitted, at a predetermined cycle, with a transmission power having a predetermined offset relative to a transmission power of a dedicated physical control channel; generating, by a radio base station, transmission power control information for controlling a transmission power of the dedicated physical control channel, by a closed-loop power control based on a reception quality of the dedicated physical control channel, and by an outer-loop power control based on a reception quality of the retransmission-control applied dedicated physical data channel, and transmitting the transmission power control information to the mobile station; and determining, by the mobile station, the transmission power of the dedicated physical control channel, based on the transmission power control information, and transmitting, from the mobile station, the dedicated physical control channel to which the re-transmission control processing is not applied with the determined transmission power. |
| US08265630B2 |
Antenna adaptation to manage the active set to manipulate soft hand-off regions
A method of managing the number of base station engaged in soft hand-off in a mobile communication system. The method involves manipulating a subscriber based directional antenna so as to control the number of base transceiver stations, pilot channels, beacon signals or other signals detected to be used in soft hand-off processing. The adaptive antennas are modified to manage the number of active set members, such as by manipulating direction, beamwidth, or other antenna parameters. |
| US08265628B2 |
Method and apparatus for seamless handover in a wireless communication network
In a wireless communication network where base stations receive protocol data units (PDUs) from mobile stations for decompression and deciphering for ordered, sequential transfer as service data units (SDUs) to an associated core network, the teachings presented herein provide a method of supporting seamless handover of a mobile station from a source base station to a target base station. By way of example, the teachings herein apply to a network based on the E-UTRA specifications, as promulgated by the 3GPP. However, that example is non-limiting, as the teachings herein apply to any network that employs in-sequence data delivery and duplicate data detection at handover. Broadly, the source base station forwards out-of-sequence SDUs and corresponding sequence number information to the target base station in support of seamless handover, and the target base station uses that information to request retransmissions as needed for packet reordering. |
| US08265626B2 |
Method of setting up connection in a communication system, radio network controller, and communication system
A method of setting up a connection in a communication system is provided, wherein the communication system includes a user equipment (UE). The present method includes following steps. When a first radio resource control (RRC) connection request message is received from the UE, whether the first RRC connection request message has been received before is determined. If the first RRC connection request message has been received, a first RRC connection setup message is sent back to the UE. If the first RRC connection request message has not been received, whether there is an accessible Femto access point (FAP) near the UE is further determined. If there is the accessible FAP near the UE, a first RRC connection reject message is sent back to the UE. If there is no accessible FAP near the UE, the first RRC connection setup message is sent back to the UE. |
| US08265623B2 |
Radio communications system, and base station apparatus and mobile radio terminal apparatus employed in the system
The present invention relates to a system conducting multi-carrier communications between a base station and a plurality of mobile terminals. When a transmission format of an individual information channel transmitted from the base station to the mobile terminals is output over a control channel from the base station to the mobile terminals, the transmission is conducted over the control channel of the same chunk as the chunk used in the individual information channel. |
| US08265622B2 |
Method and saving entity for setting service
A service setting method and a service setting saving entity are disclosed in order to solve the problem that it is impossible to perform distinctive settings according to the equipments in a scenario that one user has several equipments. The method includes the following steps: a service setting saving entity receives user setting information, a user identifier, user equipment (UE) setting information, and UE identifiers uploaded by user terminals (UTs) of the same user, and the service setting saving entity bindingly saves the user setting information and the user identifiers, and bindingly saves the UE identifier and the UE setting information of the same UT. Due to the corresponding binding saving, the equipments can be set distinctively. |
| US08265621B2 |
Wi-Fi based geo-location connectivity
A wireless device capable of matching a user with content based on the user's proximity to other users, by searching for a match between profiles of wireless devices within a wireless coverage area. Wireless devices broadcast profiles within a wireless coverage area. Other wireless devices within the wireless coverage area receive the broadcasted profiles, determine a match between the received profile and a profile stored on the wireless device, and display a match indicator if a match is determined. In this manner, a user having a wireless device may be matched with content based on the user's proximity to other users. |
| US08265618B2 |
Mobile service maintenance management
Disclosed is a method and system for managing inconsistencies between a radio communications network and a network database. In one aspect, the system is informed of one or more inconsistencies and various decisions are made as to what actions to take. One possible action is to simply inform a network operator of the discrepancy. Another possible action is to determine which network elements are affected by the inconsistency and to update the network database in relation to those network elements to compensate for the inconsistency. |
| US08265616B2 |
System and method for traffic routing
The present invention provides a system and method for traffic routing. An embodiment includes an engine for identifying groupings of subscriber stations within a particular ISP. The engine can also obtain a block of contiguous addresses for assignment to the subscriber stations. The addresses are assigned from the block to each of the subscriber stations in substantially contiguous sub-blocks based on the groupings. The groupings can be geographic or based on other desired criteria. |
| US08265615B2 |
System apparatus and method for updating communication services
A system for updating communication services includes user equipment configured to communicate using a first communication service standard and a second communication service standard, a subscriber database, an application server, and a network device. The network device detects an update trigger corresponding to a user equipment, requests that the user equipment discontinue using the first communication service standard, and flags the user equipment as updated by communicating with the application server and the subscriber database. The network device also receives a communication from the user equipment and determines whether the communication corresponds to the first communication service standard or the second communication service standard. If the communication corresponds to the first communication service standard the network device communicates an error message to the user equipment. However, if the communication corresponds to a second communication service standard, the network device processes the communication. |
| US08265613B2 |
Enterprise femto based kiosk
Methods and apparatus for employing femto technology in an enterprise kiosk are presented herein. A content component can receive multimedia content from a base station coupled to a core network. Further, a transfer component can wirelessly transfer the received multimedia content to a mobile device utilizing a femto based wireless protocol based on, at least in part, a sale of the received multimedia content. A database component can store the received multimedia content in a data store, and the transfer component can wirelessly transfer the stored multimedia content to the mobile device utilizing the femto based wireless protocol. The transfer component can alternatively record the received multimedia content in a removable data storage device. |
| US08265612B2 |
Pocket broadcasting for mobile media content
Storing and providing access to media content such as pictures, video, or audio at an accessible service, that can be accessed by mobile devices and wired devices using any appropriate communication protocol including message services such as SMS, MMS, IM, CHAT, and the like. Users can upload content from a mobile device or a wired device, can specify or select access and payment/monetization options that are to apply to the uploaded content, and can download content that was provided by other users and subject to various download/payment terms. Free access can be accompanied or followed by advertising. Content can be converted into and/or provided in different formats and resolutions. In addition, key words and optionally short codes can be associated with specific content examples to improve ease and accuracy of upload and download. |
| US08265609B2 |
System, method and computer program product for providing customer service on a mobile device
A system, method, and computer program product for providing customer services on a mobile device can provide a user-interface on a mobile device to display one or more customer service options, store state information of the customer's interaction with the user-interface, and provide a user-interface element that provides the customer an option to contact a customer service agent. In response to the customer's exercising the option to contact the customer service agent, the stored state information is sent to the customer service agent. |
| US08265602B2 |
Visual voicemail privacy protection
Visual voicemail privacy protection is implemented by requiring a credential from a user or a user device before providing voicemail data to the user. The credential may be a user name and password combination, a digital certificate, or the like. The user may enable or disable this privacy protection feature at will. A first device being used for visual voicemail services may detect a second device within a defined area around the first device and either enable or disable privacy protection features based on whether the second device is determined to be an authorized or unauthorized device. Privacy protection features may be implemented locally or remotely. |
| US08265601B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting message in mobile communication terminal
Provided are a method and an apparatus for transmitting a message in a dual mode terminal which supports a mobile communication network and a wireless Internet network. If an event for transmitting the message occurs in a mode supporting the mobile communication network, it is determined whether the wireless Internet network exists in a current position of the dual mode terminal; if it is determined that the wireless Internet network exists in the current position of the dual mode terminal, the mode supporting the mobile communication network is changed into a mode supporting the wireless internet network; and the message is transmitted through the wireless Internet network. |
| US08265597B2 |
System, method, and device for intelligence gathering and position tracking
A mobile communication device that may be used by an investigator to secretly record a suspect and track the investigator's location includes a microphone for detecting sounds, a communication component for transmitting signals or data representative of the sounds to one of the portable computers via the wireless communication network, a display for displaying information related to operation of the device, a computing device, and a computer program implemented by the computing device. The computer program is operable to place the device in a stealth mode in which the display is turned off or otherwise deactivated to make the entire device appear to be turned off while the microphone continues to detect sounds and the communication component continues to transmit signals or data representative of the sounds to a surveillance or support team operating one of the portable computers. The mobile communication device may also include a location-determining component for determining geographic locations of the device and for transmitting location data to the portable computer. |
| US08265595B1 |
Managing application permissions on a mobile device
A method for managing and tracking a permission status for an application on a mobile device is provided. The privacy policy on a mobile device may require users to grant permission for an application to access certain capabilities (e.g., GPS, personal information manager) on the mobile device. The user may be presented an interface on the mobile device that allows the user to grant an application permission to access the capability. When the user grants an application permission to access a capability a message is sent to a remote privacy manager that tracks the permission status of applications on the mobile device. The user may view the permission status of each application through the Internet. The user may also use the privacy manager to remotely change the permissions on the mobile device. |
| US08265594B2 |
Method for bypassing passkey exchange and authentication procedures
A method and system thereof for establishing a wireless connection to a device while bypassing passkey exchange and authentication procedures. Passkeys are authenticated and exchanged with another device. At the user's discretion, the passkey for the other device can be stored in memory. In the case in which the passkey is stored, the other device is considered a “trusted device.” Subsequently, when a trusted device is discovered and selected, and a wireless connection to the trusted device is made, the passkey for the trusted device is automatically retrieved from memory. As such, it is not necessary for the user to manually input a passkey or for the devices to perform a passkey exchange and authentication procedure. |
| US08265589B2 |
Method and system for the collection of voice call statistics for a mobile device
A method and system for collecting and tracking statistics of a mobile device having the steps of: adding a call statistics server at an enterprise, the call statistics server adapted to receive call statistics information from one or more mobile devices or adapted to gather call statistics information directly through monitoring call setup, throughput and disconnection traffic; and providing call statistics information to a recipient. The mobile device can then obtain and display the call statistics. |
| US08265586B2 |
Apparatus and method for low-noise amplification in a wireless communication system
A low-noise amplification apparatus and method in a receiver in a wireless communication system are provided, in which a main amplifier amplifies a received signal, a sub-amplifier amplifies a third-order harmonic component more strongly than a signal component in the received signal and cancels the third-order harmonic component by combining the amplified signal with the signal received from the main amplifier. A noise eliminator amplifies noise included in the received signal and eliminates the noise by combining the amplified noise with the signal received from the main amplifier or the signal received from the sub-amplifier. |
| US08265585B2 |
IBOC broadcasting receiver
An broadcasting receiver suitable for receiving a broadcasting signal transmitted in an IBOC signal format, includes: a narrowband filtering means suitable for processing an analog broadcasting signal included in the broadcasting signal; a wideband filtering means suitable for processing a digital broadcasting signal included in the broadcasting signal; a demodulating means for demodulating the broadcasting signal; a signal level detecting means for detecting a level of the broadcasting signal; a digital determining means for determining whether the broadcasting signal includes digital broadcasting signal or not; and a filter switching means for switching filtering means for use in processing the broadcasting signal to be input to the demodulating means between the narrowband filtering means and the wideband filtering means, according to the level of the detected broadcasting signal, when the digital determining means determines that the broadcasting signal does not include the digital broadcasting signal. |
| US08265584B2 |
Providing image rejection calibration for a receiver
According to one embodiment, a method for updating filter values of an image canceller is provided. The method may include determining a channel-to-image (C/I) ratio between a channel signal and an image signal at the canceller input and generating a gain control value based at least in part on the C/I ratio. Then correlations between the channel signal and the image signal at the canceller's input and output can be generated, along with a gear control value based at least in part on a ratio between the correlations. In turn, one or more filters of the canceller can be updated using the control values. |
| US08265578B2 |
Radio receiving apparatus
In a radio receiving apparatus, an analog received signal is converted into a digital received signal. An unwanted wave in an adjacent channel band is rejected, that is adjacent to a passband for the digital received signal. The digital received signal with no unwanted wave is converted into a first demodulated signal. The first demodulated signal is converted into a second demodulated signal in analog form. A noise component is extracted from the first demodulated signal. The second demodulated signal is suppressed under squelch control when a squelch voltage that is a voltage of the noise component after rectification and smoothing becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold level. |
| US08265571B2 |
Circuit arrangement with improved decoupling
A circuit arrangement includes a component having a closed signal path, that closed signal path connected to a first port, a second port and at least a third port. The component has a directed signal flow of a signal applied to one of that ports. Such a coupling device can be connected to a transmitter and to a receiver path, respectively. |
| US08265570B2 |
RFID reader and RF transmission method thereof
A Radio Frequency (RF) transmission method of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader using a plurality of channels is provided. The method includes: selecting at least part of the plurality of channels, measuring an RF power of each of the selected channels, determining a transmission environment of the RF according to a measurement determination, and modulating an RF signal according to the determined transmission environment. |
| US08265569B2 |
Apparatus and method for transmit/receive switching
Apparatus and methods are disclosed, such as those involving an electronic device. One such apparatus includes a transmitter; a receiver; and a transmit/receive switch configured to electrically block the receiver from the transmitter during a transmit period. The transmit/receive switch includes one or more MOSFETs coupled between an input node and an output node, the input node being electrically coupled to the transmitter, the output node being electrically coupled to the receiver. The one or more MOSFETs are configured to be off during the transmit period. The transmit/receive switch further includes a clamp circuit configured to couple the output node to ground during the transmit period. This configuration effectively protects the receiver while minimizing switching artifacts. |
| US08265566B2 |
Communication scheme for channel quality information
The invention relates to a method for transmitting and a method for reconstructing channel quality information in a communication system. Further, the invention also provides a transmitter and receiver performing these methods, respectively. The invention suggests a scheme for communicating channel quality measures that on the one hand allows for an accurate reconstruction of the channel quality measures at the receiver and on the other hand requires an acceptable transmission overhead. This is achieved by partitioning channel quality measures into at least two partitions and to compress the values partition-wise, for example by means of a discrete cosine transform and the transmission of only a subset of the resulting coefficients. |
| US08265565B2 |
Communications system employing non-polluting pilot codes
Transmitting non-polluting dummy pilot signals in a wireless communication network permits estimation of the downlink propagation channels between a number of joint transmitters and a lesser number of receivers. With fewer receivers than transmitters, loop back information from the receivers is not sufficient to determine the downlink propagation channels between the transmitters and receivers. For N transmitters and M receivers, (N−M) dummy pilot symbols are transmitted to facilitate downlink channel estimation. Each dummy pilot signal is transmitted to an imagined or dummy receiver that is virtually located such that its downlink channel coefficient vector is orthogonal to those of the real receivers. Transmit pre-filtering based on estimated propagation channels is applied to the information signals for the real receivers and to the dummy pilot signals. The extent to which the dummy pilot signals interfere at each receiver is an indication of mismatch between estimated and actual propagation channels. |
| US08265555B2 |
Tube nozzle for a respirator
A coupling device (1) is provided, especially a tube nozzle (2), for a medical device (3), especially a respirator (4), for the mechanical and electromagnetic coupling of the medical device (3) with the accessory (6), especially a tube system (19). The device includes a mechanical device for coupling the medical device (3) with the accessory (6), at least one inductance (8), at least one capacitance (12) and at least one electric line (18) for forming an electric circuit as a resonant circuit for the electromagnetic coupling of an inductance (8) at the medical device (3) with an inductance (8) at the accessory (6). The coupling device (1) is able to be checked for trouble-free operation without the accessory (6). The coupling device (1) is able to be manufactured at a low cost and make safe and reliable handling possible. The coupling device (1) has a semiconductor chip (16) for storing and/or processing at least one piece of information and/or for sending and/or receiving at least one signal. |
| US08265550B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media for utilizing a repeating function to improve quality of service
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media provide for utilizing a repeating function to improve quality of service. According to embodiments, a method for utilizing a repeating function to improve quality of service is provided. According to the method a first mobile cellular device is selected. An instruction is transmitted to the first mobile cellular device instructing the first mobile cellular device. The instruction causes the first mobile cellular device to relay communications between the second mobile cellular device and the cellular service provider. The first mobile cellular device thereby provides the repeating function for the second mobile cellular device. |
| US08265547B2 |
Resource management and interference mitigation techniques for relay-based wireless netoworks
Embodiments of a system and methods for resource management and interference mitigation techniques for relay-based networks are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US08265546B2 |
Gain adjustment stepping control in a wireless repeater
A method for controlling gain in a wireless repeater includes providing one or more gain control metrics where the gain control metrics is indicative of a loop gain of the repeater; measuring the one or more gain control metrics; and adjusting a variable gain of the repeater using a gain adjustment step size being a function of at least the loop gain of the repeater as measured by the one or more gain control metrics. In another embodiment, the gain control algorithm block is configured to divide the loop gain of the repeater into multiple gain adjustment control zones. The gain adjustment control zones may include a first zone having a loop gain in a stable operating region and a second zone having a loop gain outside the stable operating region. |
| US08265544B1 |
Educational voting game
An online voting game that teaches the participants the mechanics behind running for office. Registered users can run for office or participate as a voter or do neither and, for example, observe the results as they roll in. Registered users that run for office are required to comply with a set of predetermined rules. Voting at state and city level is performed based on each voter's recorded residence (e.g., city and state); users can run in national elections such as running for President so long as they satisfy the age, residency and citizenship requirements to run for President. In one embodiment, registered users running for office provide photographs and video clips that disclose their views on political issues of the day. |
| US08265543B2 |
Participant response system and method
A participant response system comprises a plurality of handsets for allowing a participant of an event to input a response. Each handset comprises a wireless handset having a keyboard for allowing a user to input a response. The handsets are configurable either as a participant response handset to allow a participant to enter a response, or as a base station. The handset also includes audio capability to allow participants to receive and input audio. |
| US08265542B2 |
Flight training and synthetic visualization system and method
A low-cost training and synthetic visualization system and method directed to improving an individual's airborne performance in general aviation, skydiving, and other aerial applications. The system is comprised of a self-contained mobile sensor and data storage device for recording the travel path, orientation, and forces acting upon an object as it moves through space, a desktop graphics software program for creating a playback of the recorded data on a three-dimensional representation of the environment through which the object moved, a means of linking the sensor and data storage device to the software program for the purpose of exchanging information, and a centralized data storage and retrieval system designed to accept, assimilate and redistribute the recorded data. |
| US08265539B2 |
Method of cleaning a toner image carrier
A method and apparatus for cleaning an image carrier that is used for transferring a toner image onto a recording medium which includes a black image step in which a black image, i.e., an image of the entire area which is filled with toner, is formed on the image carrier and is transferred onto a cleaner that engages the image carrier for removing dust therefrom, wherein, prior to the black image step, a black page step is carried out in which a black page is printed by transferring a black image from the image carrier onto the recording medium. |
| US08265538B2 |
Fixing device and image formation apparatus
Fixing belt is brought into pressure-contact with the surface of fixing roller such that fixing belt rotates according to rotation of fixing roller, thereby forming, between fixing belt and fixing roller, fixing nip portion through which recording sheets pass. A pressing area of an opposing surface of pressing member contacting the surface of fixing roller via fixing belt is smaller in each end portion of the opposing surface in the axis direction of fixing roller than in a central portion of the opposing surface in the axis direction of fixing roller. This makes speed of conveying recording sheets faster in each edge portion in the width direction perpendicular to a recording sheet conveyance direction than in a central portion in the width direction. Thus, creases of recording sheets can be prevented while a recording sheet passes through fixing nip portion between fixing roller and fixing belt mutually brought into pressure-contact. |
| US08265523B2 |
Image forming apparatus having replaceable developer cartridges
An arrangement for providing developer to process cartridges is described. Developer agent storing members may be insertable into a body containing the process cartridges through a front of the body. The developer agent storing members may be provided on two sides to reduce the stacked height of the developer agent storing members in the body. |
| US08265519B2 |
Lid device and image forming apparatus
A lid device includes a main body, an opening/closing member, a support portion and a fall preventing member. The opening/closing member is attached to the main body so as to be opened and closed. The support portion is provided on the main body, and supports the opening/closing member in such a manner which the opening/closing member is disengaged from the main body when receiving force of opening the opening/closing member beyond a predetermined opening/closing angular range. The fall preventing member prevents the opening/closing member disengaged from the support portion from coming off the main body. |
| US08265515B2 |
Process cartridge including cleaning member for cleaning charging wire
A process cartridge includes a charging wire for charging a photosensitive member and a cleaning member for cleaning the charging wire. When the cleaning member moves from a first position to a second position while sliding on the charging wire, a moving member in a third position is moved to a fourth position. However, the moving member remains in the fourth position when the cleaning member moves from the second position to the first position. |
| US08265514B2 |
Removing toner during printer process-control frame
Toner is removed from a skive mount in a dry electrophotographic printer. An end block is disposed at one end of the rotatable development member, and a skive mount disposed adjacent to the development member connects a skive to the end block. A timing device measures time intervals of printer operation. A process-control time interval and a cleaning time interval that is a non-negative multiple of the process-control time interval are selected. Prints are made until the process-control time interval elapses. A process-control patch is produced in a process-control frame. Once the cleaning interval has elapsed, in the process-control frame, a backup bar is lifted lift away from the photoreceptor, then, after a selected time delay, brought into physical contact with at least one point on the end block, so that toner is removed from the skive mount. |
| US08265513B2 |
Image forming apparatus
The present invention provides a configuration in which an electrically connected condition can further be stabilized in electrical-connection zones between a body of an image-forming apparatus, and an image-forming unit and a plurality of image-forming cartridges. Developing electrode members and wire power-feed electrodes are attached to a slide frame. Each of the developing electrode members has a first body-side contact. The developing electrode members are electrically connected with the developing-roller output terminals. The wire power-feed electrodes are electrically connected with wire output terminals through contact with the wire output terminals. The developing electrode members are elastically deformed as a result of their first body-side contacts being pressed in a direction, which is along a slide direction, by the developing-roller output terminals. The wire power-feed electrodes are pressed in a paper width direction by the wire output terminals. |
| US08265499B2 |
Image forming apparatus having transfer member bias control
Constant current control is performed with a target current It in each delivery interval between recording materials to sample a control voltage V1 applied to a secondary transfer roller. A transition to the constant current control with the target current It is made after a recording material divided voltage according to a kind of the recording material is applied to the constant voltage V1 at a head of the recording material. A voltage in which 0.9 is multiplied by addition of the sampled control voltage V1 and the recording material divided voltage Vp according to the kind of the recording material is set to a lower limit value Vlimit to perform the constant current control, and the constant voltage Vlimit is applied to the secondary transfer roller when a control voltage is lower than the lower limit value Vlimit in a calculation stage. |
| US08265498B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining media thickness in a feeder section of an image production device
A method and apparatus for determining media thickness in a feeder section of an image production device is disclosed. The method may include receiving one or more multi-dimensional images of a media stack from an imaging device, the media stack including one or more media clips that each contain a plurality of media sheets, deriving a multi-dimensional feature signal from the received one or more multi-dimensional images, converting the derived multi-dimensional feature signal to a one-dimensional feature signal, estimating media clip thickness using the one-dimensional signal, estimating media sheet thickness using the estimated media clip thickness, and adjusting at least one image production device parameter based on the estimated media sheet thickness. |
| US08265497B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member for carrying a toner image; a rotatable transfer member constituting a transfer portion for transferring the toner image from the image bearing member onto a recording material; a voltage source for applying a voltage to the transfer member; an executing portion for executing an image forming mode for continuously forming an image on a plurality of recording materials having different widths measured in a direction of a rotational axis of the transfer member; an interval adjustment portion for adjusting, during execution of the image forming mode, an interval between adjacent recording materials to a first interval when the width of the recording material is larger than the width of the previous recording material, and for adjusting, during execution of the image forming mode, the interval between adjacent recording materials to a second interval when the width of the recording material is smaller than the width of the previous recording material. |
| US08265494B2 |
Image forming apparatus including a toner supply controller to control a supply of toner
An image-information acquiring unit acquires the image information divided at least in one of a main-scanning direction and a sub-scanning direction. A supply control unit calculates basic-supply patterns of a supply amount of toner and controls the supply amount at a supply point in a developing unit using a toner supply pattern combined with the basic-supply patterns that eliminate temporal variation in toner density of the developer, at the specific point, due to development of the latent image. |
| US08265490B2 |
Transamplifier, system and method for amplification of optical signals at plural wavelengths
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a device, method of use and system for an analog multi-wavelength transamplifier. The transamplifier embodiments described herein allow the use of multiple wavelengths to segment logical service groups, such as for use in a CATV distribution system and a FTTH system having a broadband overlay. Improved optical signal power performance can be achieved by using direct modulating transmitters and maintaining polarization of the optical signals that are modulated by a phase modulator, such as an external waveguide. |
| US08265489B2 |
Optical field transmitter and optical field transmission system
It is provided an optical field transmitter comprising a light source, a DA converter and an optical field modulator. The optical field transmitter modulates an information signal into an optical field signal. The information signal includes one of multilevel signals arranged irregularly on a complex plane and multilevel signals arranged by combining mutually different numbers of phase values in at least two amplitude values. The optical field transmitter further comprises a phase pre-accumulation circuit for outputting phase pre-accumulation complex information obtained by previously accumulating a phase component of the information signal at predetermined time intervals. The DA converter converts the information signal including the output phase pre-accumulation complex information into an analog signal, and inputs the converted analog signal to the optical field modulator. The optical field modulator modulates output light into the optical field signal by using the analog signal, and transmits the modulated optical field signal. |
| US08265486B2 |
Optical communication module
An optical communication module which uses a single optical fiber to enable bidirectional communication or multiplexing communication is provided. The optical communication module includes a platform configured to have a through-hole therein which vertically passes through the platform; an optical receiver configured to be provided on the platform and include a light-receiving element; an optical transmitter configured to be provided on the platform and include a light-emitting element; and an optical filter configured to be provided on one surface of the platform to correspond to the through-hole, transmit light from the light-emitting element to an optical line, and transmit light input through the optical line to the light-receiving element, where one of the light-receiving element and the light-emitting element is provided on one surface of the platform on an opposite side of the optical line with the optical filter interposed therebetween, and the other is provided on the other surface of the platform to correspond to the through-hole. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost, minimize the optical or electrical crosstalk, and maximize the optical coupling efficiency. |
| US08265483B2 |
Parallel optical polarization tracking
A system to communicate optical data signals in parallel includes an optical splitter to split the data signals into two polarization multiplexed (PM) signals; and two reception channels coupled to the optical splitter, where each reception channel tracks and isolates a PM signal independently. |
| US08265482B2 |
Device and method to allow for uni-directional traffic on local area networks
A communication network access device is adapted for duplex communication and provides transmit and receive signal paths. A controllable socket is coupled to the transmit and receive signal paths and linked to a control interface for activating/deactivating the control interface. A pluggable module is coupled to the transmit and receive signal paths via the controllable socket in an activated status and to a transmission path carrying uni-directional signals. The module includes a first optical device and a splitter in the transmission path and is coupled to a second optical device via the splitter. The second optical device responds to a portion of uni-directional signals provided by the splitter for placing the communication access device in a link up condition for uni-directional signals provided by the first optical device to the transmission path serving an optical local area network. |
| US08265481B2 |
Wavelength assignment in an optical WDM network
The path selection and wavelength assignment to a selected path are performed by mapping the wavelength reach to the demand distribution (agile reach) resulting in a 50-60% increase in the network reach. The network reach is further increased (about 2.2 times) when on-line measured performance data are used for path selection and wavelength assignment. The connections may be engineered/upgraded individually, by optimizing the parameters of the entire path or of a regenerator section of the respective path. The upgrades include changing the wavelength, adjusting the parameters of the regenerator section, controlling the launch powers, mapping a certain transmitter and/or receiver to the respective wavelength, selecting the wavelengths on a certain link so as to reduce cross-talk, increasing wavelength spacing, etc. |
| US08265479B2 |
Camera module
A camera module advantageous in simplifying an assembly process is provided. A camera module 22 includes a barrel unit 66 having a housing space S; a lens holding unit 68 which holds an imaging optical system 34, which is housed in the housing space S, and which is supported such that the lens holding unit 68 is movable along an optical axis of the imaging optical system 34; an image pickup element 29 which is disposed in the barrel unit 66 and which picks up an object image guided by the imaging optical system 34; and a driving unit 72 which moves the lens holding unit 68 along the optical axis of the imaging optical system 34. The barrel unit 66 includes an inner barrel 80 in which the housing space S is formed and an outer barrel 78 disposed outside the inner barrel 80. A retaining plate 86 includes a front plate portion 86A and two side plate portions 86B. The retaining plate 86 clamps the inner barrel 80 and the outer barrel 78 in the optical axis direction in the state in which the front plate portion 86A retains a front end of the outer barrel 78 and distal ends of the two side plate portions 86B retain the rear end-face wall 8002. |
| US08265478B1 |
Plenoptic camera with large depth of field
Methods and apparatus for light-field capture with large depth of field. A design methodology is described in which the relationships among various plenoptic camera parameters, including inverse magnification, F-number, focal length, wavelength, and pixel size, may be analyzed to design plenoptic cameras that provide increased depth-of-field when compared to conventional plenoptic cameras. Plenoptic cameras are described, which may be implemented according to the design methodology, and in which both Keplerian telescopic and Galilean telescopic imaging can be realized at the same time while providing a larger depth of field than is realized in conventional plenoptic cameras, thus capturing light-field images that capture “both sides” in which all but a small region of the scene is in focus. In some embodiments, apertures may be added to the microlenses so that depth of field is increased. |
| US08265477B2 |
Stereo camera with preset modes
There is disclosed a stereographic camera system and method. A stereographic camera may include a left camera and a right camera including respective lenses and an interface for receiving a selection of a selected mode from a plurality of preset operating modes. One or more preset stereo parameters associated with each of the plurality of operating modes may be stored in a preset parameter memory. An interocular distance mechanism may set an interocular distance between the left camera and the right camera based on, at least in part, the one or more preset stereo parameters associated with the selected mode. |
| US08265475B2 |
Focus-point selection system, autofocus system, and camera
A focus-point selection system comprising an image sensor, a target detector, a location detector, and a first selector is provided. The focus-point selection system selects a subset of focus points corresponding to the location of a target in an image capturing area from a plurality of focus points positioned at predetermined locations. The target is a subject that is brought into focus according to a phase-difference autofocus method. The image sensor generates an image signal corresponding to the captured optical image. The target detector detects the target on the basis of the image signal. The location detector detects a subject location. The subject location is a location of the target detected by the target detector in the image capturing area. The first selector selects the focus point with the shortest distance from the subject location. |
| US08265472B2 |
Imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus is provided with a lens barrel that includes a flexible substrate that is electrically connected to a magnetically driven apparatus and drive ring that drives the lens barrel by rotating. The drive rings include through grooves that pass through the drive ring and a flexible substrate passes therethrough from the inside to the outside of the lens barrel and a strobe cam that is provided on the outer circumferential side of the drive ring. In addition, the through groove and the strobe cam are disposed so as to coincide in the rotation direction of the drive ring. |
| US08265471B2 |
Lens barrel and imaging device
The lens barrel includes a first supporting frame, an optical element, a second supporting frame, and a guide shaft. The first supporting frame has a first base portion and a first seat portion that projects in a first direction from the first base portion. The second supporting frame supports the optical element and has a first bearing portion. The guide shaft is coupled to the first seat portion and inserted into the first bearing portion. The first seat portion is disposed within the circumference of the guide shaft when viewed in the first direction. |
| US08265465B2 |
Pebble stone-shaped aroma diffuser
A pebble stone-shaped aroma diffuser includes a top cover shell, an upper panel, a gasket ring, a lower panel, a bottom cover shell, a heater and a base member. The gasket ring is tightly set between the top cover shell and the upper panel, thereby forming with the top cover shell and the upper panel a fluid container. The lower panel is supported on the bottom cover shell and closely attached to the upper panel of the fluid container. The heater is kept in contact with the bottom side of the lower panel. The base member is arranged at the bottom side of the bottom cover shell to provide power supply to the heater for producing heat that is transferred through the lower panel and the upper panel to heat the aromatic fluid in the fluid container. The fluid container is rapidly detachable from the lower panel for cleaning. |
| US08265464B2 |
Administering a time-shifting cache in a media playback device
Methods, apparatus and products for administering a time-shifting cache in a media playback device are disclosed, where the media playback device receives from a digital media provider a digital media stream of digital media content and administering the time-shifting cache includes caching the digital media content of the digital media stream in the time-shifting cache; dynamically identifying one or more non-preferred segments of the cached digital media content; and managing the time-shifting cache in dependence upon the identified non-preferred segments. |
| US08265463B2 |
Information processing apparatus, method for the same and information gathering system
Video data and audio data corresponding to a predetermined attribute is retrieved from the video data and the audio data, each of which is stored in association with an attribute, and the retrieved items of the video data and the audio data are listed in a form showing a correlation between the video data and the audio data. In a case that items of the video data and audio data are selected, wherein said items of the video data and audio data are displayed and correlated with each other, the selected video data and audio data can be synchronized with each other and played-back. |
| US08265462B2 |
Recording medium having a data structure for managing a transport stream recorded thereon and methods and apparatuses for recording and reproducing
The recording medium stores a transport stream formed of packets. The packets represent one or more PES packets and are grouped into units of a fixed number of packets. A first portion of each unit corresponds to a first portion of a PES packet. |
| US08265460B2 |
Systems and methods for recording programs of lesser interest when convenient
Systems and methods for recording a program are provided. Alternate transmissions of a program with a “when convenient” recording priority may be recorded in whole or in portions whenever recording does not interfere with other uses of the user's equipment. When the recording device is out of space to record programs, recorded programs having a “when convenient” deletion priority may be deleted and scheduled for re-recording at a later time. |
| US08265459B2 |
Recording apparatus, method of controlling recording apparatus, and computer-readable recording medium
A recording apparatus has a configuration in which plural reservation cards having different strengths are distributed to each user, each user being able to set its own reservation card when actually reserving an operation of recording data. The strengths of the reservation cards set by users are compared when there is conflict of reservation time between the users. The reservation of the recording operation of the stronger user according to the result of the comparison is accepted, and the reservation card corresponding to the reservation accepted by the accepting part is invalidated. |
| US08265455B2 |
Apparatus, method, and program for processing information
Disclosed is an apparatus, a method, and a program for processing information, applicable to a record playback system etc. wherein a control unit provides information regarding an input imaging record mode inputted by a user to a rate information creation unit; the rate information creation unit creates rate information based on the information and provides the rate information to a record unit; the record unit records the rate information etc. onto an optical disc as being controlled by the control unit; a playback unit is controlled by a control unit to read out the rate information recorded on the optical disc and provide it to a rate information determination unit; the rate information determination unit determines a processing mode at each unit based on the rate information and provides the information to the control unit; and the control unit controls the playback unit, an image audio processing unit, and an output unit based on this information. |
| US08265454B2 |
Video/audio playback apparatus
A video/audio playback apparatus that can continue playback even if the external storage means are disconnected during playback, includes a virtual file system section 24 for merging the video/audio information and playback control information of the optical disc 12 with the video/audio information and playback control information of the local storage 7 to configure a virtual file system; a pseudo file system generator 2a for generating a pseudo file system 4a; a RAM 4 for storing the generated pseudo file system 4a; a disconnection detector 2b for detecting disconnection of the local storage 7 from the connecting section 15; and a playback manager 21 for causing the virtual file system section 24 to merge the video/audio information and the playback control information of the optical disc 12 with the information of the pseudo file system 4a immediately after the disconnection is detected, thereby newly configuring the virtual file system. |