| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08282188B2 |
Inkjet head cleaning apparatus, image recording apparatus and inkjet head cleaning method
The inkjet head cleaning apparatus includes: a cleaning liquid holding device having a cleaning liquid holding surface with which cleaning liquid is held and applied to a liquid ejection surface of an inkjet head in which the liquid ejection surface is oblique to a horizontal plane, the cleaning liquid holding surface being arranged with an inclination such that the cleaning liquid holding surface is substantially parallel with the liquid ejection surface of the inkjet head and faces the liquid ejection surface at a prescribed distance from the liquid ejection surface; and a cleaning liquid supply device which has a cleaning liquid supply port through which the cleaning liquid is supplied from an upper portion of the inclined cleaning liquid holding surface in such a manner that the cleaning liquid slides down the inclined cleaning liquid holding surface while forming a meniscus between the cleaning liquid holding surface and the liquid ejection surface. |
| US08282187B2 |
Liquid discharging apparatus
A liquid discharging apparatus discharges liquid onto a target, thereby forming dots. The apparatus includes a discharge head, a capping unit for moisturizing, a lifting and lowering unit, and a lid member. The discharge head has a discharge surface from which liquid is discharged. The capping unit is disposed substantially just below the discharge head when the discharge head is located at a predetermined reference position. The capping unit has an opening that comes into contact with the discharge head and seals the discharge surface. The lifting and lowering unit lifts and lowers the capping unit, thereby bringing the capping unit into contact with the discharge head and taking the capping unit out of contact with the discharge head. The lid member rotates around a rotating shaft using the lifting and lowering of the capping unit, thereby opening and closing the opening of the capping unit. |
| US08282184B2 |
Print engine controller employing accumulative correction factor in pagewidth printhead
A print engine controller for a pagewidth inkjet printhead having a plurality of abutting printhead modules mounted on a carrier. The print engine controller is configured to: (a) receive data identifying a rotational yaw displacement of an erroneously displaced printhead module; (b) determine a correction factor that compensates for ink dot displacement by nozzles in the erroneously displaced printhead module; (c) use the correction factor to determine an accumulative Y-offset for each printhead module in the printhead; and (d) alter the output of the ink dots from nozzles in each printhead module having a non-zero accumulative Y-offset to compensate for the rotational yaw displacement of the erroneously displaced printhead module. |
| US08282183B2 |
Inkjet printer for detecting the type of print media
An inkjet printer includes a media support defining a surface; an inkjet printhead oriented to eject ink toward the defined surface; a carriage that is movable along a carriage scan direction; a light source directed at the defined surface and positioned on a first side of the defined plane to provide an illuminated portion of the plane extending substantially along the carriage scan direction; a light sensing device mounted on the movable platform on a second side of the defined plane that is opposite the first side, which sensing device functions to sense media type by sensing light emitted from the light source and transmitted across the defined plane and to light sensing device; memory for storing patterns representing particular media types; and a processor for comparing signals from the light sensor to patterns stored in the memory in order to identify media type. |
| US08282181B2 |
Method of controlling a control circuit for a micro-electromechanical inkjet nozzle arrangement
Provided is a method of controlling a CMOS-implemented control circuit for operating a micro-electromechanical inkjet nozzle arrangement of a printer. The circuit includes a plurality of sequential shift registers, a transfer register, a firing control gate and a drive transistor. The method includes the steps of transferring data from the shift register to the transfer register, latching the data in said transfer register, activating the firing control gate to arrange a heater element of the nozzle arrangement in electrical communication with a current source to facilitate ink ejection via thermal cavitation of ink in the nozzle. |
| US08282179B2 |
Image recording apparatus
An image recording apparatus is provided with the following a conveying section including a platen which conveys a recording medium, an image recording section which performs image recording with respect to the recording medium conveyed by the conveying section, and a moving mechanism which moves at least one of the image recording section and the conveying section and enables a movement between a recording position in which the image recording is performed and a non-recording position in which the image recording is not performed, and a positioning section which permits the space between the image recording section and the conveying section to have a predetermined value at the recording position. The point of application of a force with which at least one of the image recording section and the conveying section is moved by the moving mechanism is substantially coincident with the positioning section. |
| US08282173B2 |
Electropneumatic parking brake modulator
An electropneumatic parking brake modulator for controlling a parking brake mode of trailer brakes in a vehicle/trailer combination includes a valve element for airing and bleeding the trailer spring brake cylinders, at least one compressed air reservoir inlet for airing at least one compressed air line in the parking brake modulator with compressed air from a compressed air reservoir of the towing vehicle, at least one compressed air reservoir outlet at which a reservoir pressure can be made available for the brakes of the trailer, and at least one compressed air control outlet at which a control pressure can be made available for the brakes of the trailer. A towing vehicle protection valve is integrated into the parking brake modulator, and a compressed air line to the compressed air control outlet is automatically blockable when the reservoir pressure made available for the trailer falls below a predetermined threshold value. |
| US08282172B2 |
Seat
A seating structure including a base, a pair of laterally spaced support arms each having a seat portion and a backrest portion and a transition portion joining the seat portion and backrest portion, wherein the support arms are coupled to the base. A body support member extends between and is connected to the support arms and includes at least a seat portion and a backrest portion. A support element is coupled to the base and includes a central support arm extending upwardly along a centerline of the backrest portion of the body support member. The central support arm is spaced rearwardly from the backrest portions of the support arms and further includes a pair of laterally extending struts connecting the central support arm and the laterally spaced support arms. |
| US08282169B2 |
Load support structure
A load support member includes spaced apart beam members, a linking member and a stop member. In another aspect, the beam includes a support surface defining first and second landing regions, which are in contact with and support a membrane. In another aspect, a brace member is secured between laterally spaced beams, with the brace member having a greater height than width at the end thereof and a greater width than height at the middle thereof. In another aspect, a pair of armrests are joined to a cross member and a pair of spaced apart beams in a releasable engagement. In yet another aspect, a pair of beam members are fixedly joined with a cross member, which is pivotally connected to a link pivotally connected to the beams. A method of assembling a load support structure is also provided. |
| US08282165B2 |
Reboard system
The invention is directed to a reboard system comprising a steeply inclined backrest for transporting infants and toddlers approximately in a half-lying, half-sitting posture, particularly in a car opposite the direction of travel thereof, it being possible to vary the length of the backrest in the direction of the spine of an infant sitting in the reboard system when a child is in the reboard system and/or when the reboard system is fastened to a seat of a car opposite the direction of travel thereof, by a guided parallel shift of an extendible part of the backrest relative to said seat surface along a straight line, which is inclined by a constant acute angle α against the horizontal plane in the direction of travel, whereby the extendible part (10) of the backrest (6) is provided with upper lateral body rests (12) for substantially guiding the shoulders and/or upper arms of the infant during the travel in a car. |
| US08282164B2 |
Seating durability layer electrical, mechanical and connecting system integration
A vehicle seat assembly has a seat bottom that is adapted for attachment to a vehicle. The seat bottom has a foam layer and an expanded polymer layer that defines a first cavity. The first cavity is configured to receive an electrical component. |
| US08282153B2 |
Active material based seam concealment device
A device for concealing a seam between a first and second surface includes a seam concealment body having a body surface, the body overlaying and attached to a first surface and a second surface, the body surface being substantially co-planar with a portion of the first and second surfaces, the seam concealment body configured to transition between a first shape and a second shape, wherein the transition permits movement of one or both of the first surface and the second surface such that the seam concealment body forms a hinge. The device also includes an active material in operative communication with the seam concealment body, wherein the active material is configured to undergo a change in at least one property upon receipt of an activation signal, wherein the change in at least one property is effective to transition the seam body from the first shape to the second shape. |
| US08282145B2 |
Gap hider for an interior vehicle panel assembly
Embodiments of interior vehicle panel assemblies are disclosed herein. One embodiment disclosed herein comprises a first panel having an exterior surface, an interior surface and a first edge and a second panel having an exterior surface, an interior surface and a second edge. The second edge of the second panel is aligned with the first edge of the first panel to define a gap having a height between the first edge of the first panel and the second edge of the second panel. A projection extends from one of the first and second panels in a position inward from the exterior surface and toward the respective edge of other of the first and second panels to span at least a portion of the height of the gap. |
| US08282136B2 |
Slip on groove coupling with multiple sealing gasket
Methods, gaskets, and couplings for connecting two pipes are disclosed. One embodiment of the method includes the steps of placing the assembled coupling over one end of a pipe, aligning the second pipe with the first pipe, sliding the coupling off the end of the first pipe so that a portion of the coupling is around each pipe, and securing the coupling. |
| US08282132B2 |
Passenger motor vehicle with fuel module arranged within a passenger compartment
A passenger motor vehicle (1) has a passenger compartment (3) and a fuel tank module (4) is in the passenger compartment (3). The module (4) has first and second chambers (19, 20). The first chamber (19) holds a tank bladder and a catch tank (32) is arranged within the tank bladder. The second chamber (20) holds a fuel pump unit (33). The module (4) is sealed off from remaining areas of the passenger compartment (3), and fuel lines to the module (4) and from the module (4) to the internal combustion engine are arranged outside the passenger compartment (3). Thus, a high level of safety for the vehicle occupant is ensured despite the accommodation of the fuel module in the passenger compartment, and substantially complete emptying of the fuel in the fuel module is possible. |
| US08282130B2 |
Mobile work machine
Mobile work machine having a chassis that is designed as a tractor-trailer, a multi-axle tractor unit and a multi-axle semi-trailer that carries the work machine and is connected with the tractor unit by means of a fifth-wheel coupling, having a support construction that is disposed in the region of the semi-trailer and can be supported on a surface, raising the tractor-trailer, which construction has two front support booms disposed at bearing locations on the tractor unit end of the semi-trailer, symmetrical to the longitudinal chassis axis, which can be pivoted between a transport position and at least one support position, by means of a hydraulically driven activation mechanism, in each instance, and two rear support booms that can be pivoted between a transport position and at least one support position, whereby the semi-trailer has means for raising and holding the tractor unit in place. |
| US08282129B2 |
Air bag cushion for vehicles
An air bag cushion for vehicles has a connection part which is formed in front portions of the left and right chambers by sewing the inner surfaces of the left and right chambers along sewing lines in a shape of closed curve to form a vertical valley which separates the left and right chambers from each other. A through hole is formed in the connection part to permit gas to flow between the left and right chambers. The cushion includes a tether which passes through the connection part and connects the left and right chambers to each other in a lateral direction of the cushion. The air bag cushion is simple in structure and is superior in uniform expanding performance of the left and right chambers. |
| US08282127B1 |
Gas generating system
A gas generating system including a housing and a divider dividing an interior of the housing into a first chamber and a second chamber. First and second tubes extend into the second chamber and end at the divider. At least one opening is formed in the divider to enable fluid communication of the first chamber with an interior of only the first tube after activation of the gas generating system. |
| US08282124B2 |
Side curtain airbag having a main chamber and an extension chamber
A side airbag for use in a vehicle includes a main chamber extending along a ceiling of the vehicle and configured to restrain a head of a vehicle occupant when the airbag is deployed. The main chamber includes an inboard panel and an outboard panel that are joined together. The airbag also includes a forward chamber extending from the main chamber and configured to restrain at least a portion of the vehicle occupant when the airbag is deployed. The forward chamber at least partially overlaps at least one of the inboard and outboard panels of the main chamber when the airbag is stowed. |
| US08282123B2 |
Knee airbag device and connecting method thereof
A knee airbag device includes a column cover that covers a rear end portion of a steering column from below; and an airbag module. The airbag module is disposed in a column lower cover and includes a gas generation portion that generates gas and a knee airbag that is housed in the airbag module in a folded state, and is inflated and deployed by the gas supplied by the gas generation portion. The airbag module is connected to the steering column by a snap-fit action. |
| US08282122B2 |
Airbag assembly
An airbag assembly for a motor vehicle is disclosed having an airbag 110 that is inflated by an inflator when the airbag 110 is deployed in accordance with a control signal from an electronic controller. The airbag 110 has a main chamber 114 and at least one subsidiary chamber 116 fluidly connected to the main chamber 114 by a transfer vent 117. The main and subsidiary chambers 114 and 116 are vented to atmosphere by respective vents 115, 118 and the pressure in the subsidiary chamber 116 is arranged to be equal to or lower than the pressure in the main chamber 114. The subsidiary chamber 116 is produced in a simple manner by forming a depression in the main chamber 114 using a tether 124 and covering the depression so formed with a cover 125. |
| US08282119B1 |
Two-level travel stroller for children
A collapsible child stroller system with a means for attaching an infant carrier at an upper location along with a second child at a lower position occupying a typical front facing seat, is herein disclosed. The infant carrier comprises a molded plastic seat that is attachable thereto an upper frame portion of the stroller. The stroller system may also be reconfigured to allow an infant occupying the upper position to sit facing the caregiver in a similar manner as a grocery cart. The child stroller system provides enhancements such as removable and washable padded cloth padding, a cup holder, and snack trays at upper and lower locations. When the infant carrier is attached to the upper stroller frame, an infant can be safely transported on the same stroller with a second child. The second child would sit facing forward on the lower portion similar to most existing child strollers. |
| US08282115B2 |
Independent air suspension for off-road trailers
A suspension system for use on off-road trailers may be an independent air suspension system that may provide ample wheel travel and stability to keep the wheels on the ground through rough and uneven terrain. Conventional suspension systems may lack adequate wheel travel, may bounce too much, or may not be soft enough. The suspension system of the present invention may use an air bag to normalize the suspension for varying weights of the trailer load, allowing proper suspension for both heavy and light loads. |
| US08282113B2 |
Rideable luggage
Rideable luggage that can be used as either a rolling suitcase or as a baggage scooter for carrying a rider, or additional baggage. The rideable luggage has a suitcase and a platform that can be selectively deployed for holding additional baggage or a person. The deployable platform has at least one scooter wheel at an outboard end and a pair of suitcase wheels at its inboard end. A center steer wheel is connected to an extendable handle to provide steering control. When the platform is deployed, the suitcase wheels retract so that only the steer wheel and scooter wheel are in contact with the floor. When the platform is retracted, the suitcase wheels extend and are in contact with the floor along with the steer wheel. |
| US08282110B2 |
Cargo container system with selectively deployable support and wheel assemblies
A cargo container system is provided having selectively deployable support and wheel assemblies. The support and wheel assemblies are capable of being stowed within a recess formed in the underside of the cargo container system during storage or shipment of the cargo container system (e.g., by ship, rail, and/or the like). At an appropriate time (e.g., the cargo container system is about to placed onto the ground by a crane), the support and wheel assemblies are then selectively deployed downwardly and/or outwardly from the recess of the underside of the cargo container system to provide a fully functional cargo container system/trailer combination that is immediately capable of being engaged to a truck/tractor and driven away. The deployment system can include a screw system that, when rotated in a first direction is operable to raise the support and wheel assemblies and then, when rotated in a second direction is capable of lowering the support and wheel assemblies. |
| US08282106B1 |
Gland packing
A gland packing which is made of a material configured by windingly laminating an expanded graphite tape into a spiral shape. In the gland packing, ring-like projected parts are disposed on end faces of a die mold packing part made of an expanded graphite tape windingly laminated into a spiral shape so as to be integrated with the part. Ring-like seal members are brought into tight contact with the end faces of the die mold packing part excluding the ring-like projected parts in such a manner that the ring-like projected parts are projected in an axial direction beyond the outer faces of the respective ring-like seal members. |
| US08282103B2 |
Apparatus and method for strategy games
A flight stand apparatus for use in playing a airplane combat game including a deck having a first attachment device and a deck top surface, a base having a first opening, and an altitude pole having a first end and an opposing second end. The altitude pole and the base may be configured so that the first end of the altitude pole is adapted to be inserted into the first opening of the base, and the altitude pole is thereby temporarily fixed to the base so that the altitude pole is substantially at a right angle with respect to the base. The first attachment device of the deck is configured to temporarily fix the deck on the altitude pole between the first end and the second end of the altitude pole, so that the deck top surface is substantially at a right angle with respect to the altitude pole and substantially parallel to the base. |
| US08282102B2 |
Fishing game
A board game based on the sport of fishing having a board surface having various features and players are given special privileges in order to catch fish according to a set of rules and steps. |
| US08282098B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus and image forming apparatus
A sheet stacking apparatus includes a sheet stack portion having a plurality of separately elevatable stacker trays configured to stack a conveyed sheet and arranged one after the other in a sheet conveying direction. When a number of sheets to be stacked is greater than a number of sheets stackable on a stacker tray, the sheets are conveyed on one stacker tray and then stacked on another stacker tray so that the sheet stacking apparatus is capable of stacking a large number of sheets. |
| US08282096B2 |
Automatic document feeder
An automatic document feeder includes a transfer channel, a pick-up module and a thickness detecting module. The thickness detecting module includes a detecting member, a transmission member and an optical displacement sensing member. By the pick-up module, a sheet article is fed into the transfer channel. When the sheet article is transported across the detecting member, the sheet article is sustained against the detecting member, so that the detecting member is moved. The transmission member is connected to the detecting member. As the detecting member is moved, the transmission member generates a displacement amount. The optical displacement sensing member is used for detecting a displacement amount of the transmission member, thereby acquiring the thickness of the sheet article. |
| US08282095B2 |
Double-feed detection apparatus and image forming apparatus
A double-feed detection apparatus includes a sensor configured to detect double feed of transfer materials conveyed along a conveying path, and a control unit configured to execute detection of the transfer material under conveyance plural times with the sensor, and to determine the double feed of the transfer materials based on detection results. The control unit determines a detection timing based on both a distance along the conveying path from the sensor to an image forming unit which forms an image on the transfer material and a length of the transfer material in the feed direction. |
| US08282093B2 |
Sheet feeder and image forming apparatus provided with the same
A sheet feeder includes a sheet cassette insertable into a housing in a first direction, a remaining amount detecting member including a contact piece extending in a second direction opposite to the first direction and coming into contact with an uppermost sheet, and detecting a remaining amount of sheets according to a position of the contact piece, and a switching member switching the position of the contact piece between a contact position where the contact piece enters a storage space to come into contact with the uppermost sheet and a retracted position where the contact piece is retracted from the storage space. The position is switched to the contact position when the sheet cassette is inserted into the housing in the first direction and set to a feeding position while switched to the retracted position when the sheet cassette is separated from the feeding position and withdrawn from the housing. |
| US08282091B2 |
Spine formation device, bookbinding system, and spine formation method
A spine formation device includes a sheet conveyer, a clamping unit disposed downstream from the sheet conveyer in a sheet conveyance direction, for squeezing a folded portion of a bundle of folded sheets, a contact member against which the folded portion of the bundle is pressed, disposed downstream from the clamping unit, and a controller to cause the bundle of folded sheets to bulge by stopping the sheet conveyer after the bundle of folded sheets is transported a predetermined conveyance distance from a contact position between the contact member and the folded portion of the bundle and to cause the clamping unit to squeeze a bulging portion of the bundle created between the sheet conveyer and the contact member with the folded portion pressed against the contact member. The predetermined distance is set in accordance with a predetermined sheet-related variable. |
| US08282087B2 |
Oscillation decoupling device
An oscillation decoupling device is disclosed with a load-receiving element which is mounted in an oscillating manner relative to a support unit at least along an active direction along which at least part of the load is applied having at least one sensor unit which detects an oscillation of the element due to the load and at least one actuator unit acting against the oscillation of the element. The support unit is modularly configured and serves as a support structure for at least one unit that receives the element and is elastically deformable in the active direction of the load. The load-receiving element is connected to the elastically deformable unit. The at least one actuator influences the deformation applied to the at least one unit, or is integrated thereon, so that the at least one actuator initiates a deformation acting against an elastic deformation due to the load inside the unit. |
| US08282086B2 |
Vibration isolator
There is provided a vibration isolator in which a restriction passage for causing a main fluid chamber and a sub-fluid chamber to communicate with each other is changed over to one of a first restriction passage and a second restriction passage according to a change in the frequency of vibrations in a short period of time, and the size of the isolator is made small efficiently. A plunger member 78 closes an orifice opening 74 when being moved to a closing position against the urging force of a coil spring 90 by the fluid pressure in a pressurization space 130, and opens the orifice opening 74 when being returned to an opening position by the urging force of the coil spring 90. For the orifice opening 74, the opening ratio R between the transverse opening width along the axial direction and the longitudinal opening width along the circumferential direction is set in the range of 2≦R≦25, further preferably 5≦R≦20. Thereby, the longitudinal opening width can be made sufficiently small while an opening area necessary for the orifice opening 74 is secured. Therefore, the distance between the opening position and the closing position of the plunger member 78 can be shortened according to the longitudinal opening width. |
| US08282085B2 |
Absorbent covering
An absorbent covering (1) has high damping power, secured on a structure (2) and includes a dissipater mesh made up of a plurality of dissipating elements (3) and of nodes (4) each having its bottom end (4′) secured on the structure (2). In remarkable manner, the bottom ends (4′) of the nodes (4) project from the dissipating elements (3) so as to leave an empty space (5) between the dissipating elements (3) and the structure (2), the absorbent covering (1) including main absorbent elements (6) arranged in the empty space (5), each of the main absorbent elements (6) being secured firstly to a bottom face (3′) of a dissipating element (3) and secondly to the structure (2). |
| US08282084B2 |
Respiratory humidification system
A respiratory humidification system having a capillary passage in communication with a ventilator, the ventilator adapted to deliver an air stream, a heater operable to at least partially vaporize water in the capillary passage, a pumping unit adapted to supply water to the capillary passage, wherein the water upon heating is at least partially vaporized to form an aerosol stream. The aerosol stream is combined with the air stream to form a humidified air stream. |
| US08282083B1 |
Corrosion resistant railing insert and method for installation
A corrosion resistant railing insert including a stainless steel upper body for insertion into a railing post and including channels for liquid drainage from the railing post, an elongated stainless steel mounting arm protruding from the upper body. The mounting arm has a smaller cross-sectional area than the upper body, which are integrally associated as a unitary device. The upper body is secured within a railing post while the mounting aim is inserted into a complimentary aperture or sleeve formed in a concrete substrate and secured therein with an adhesive. |
| US08282081B2 |
Guiding device of hauling rope for tools in borehole
Disclosed is a guiding device of a hauling rope, in more detail, a guiding device of a hauling rope that installed at the top of casing, which controls inserting/withdrawing a hauling rope connected with a Sonde, measuring instrument, which probes, observes, and examines an underground structure, geological features, or soil conditions within borehole. |
| US08282074B2 |
Delayed coker isolation valve systems
The present invention provides more efficient, cost effective coke drum isolation valve devices and system as well as more efficient, cost effective methods for isolating the flow of matter from location to another in the delayed coker unit operation where the valve comprises a first seat; a second seat aligned with said first seat; a blind; a main body having an orifice dimensioned to align with an orifice in said line; wherein said main body is coupled to said line; an upper and lower bonnet coupled to said main body, wherein said bonnets may be removed in order to replace valve parts without separating the main body from the line; and a plate located inside a bonnet, wherein the plate comprises a planar surface that contacts a surface of the blind. |
| US08282073B2 |
Presettable gas valve
A presettable gas valve is disclosed herein. The gas valve may have a maximum gas flow that can be adjusted to the particular requirements of the fireplace in which the gas valve is used. By way of example and not limitation, for real biomass/fuel burning fireplaces, the gas valve may be opened to its maximum level with a quarter turn of a handle. In contrast, for fake fireplaces, which require more gas flow compared to real fireplaces, the gas valve may be opened to its maximum level with a half turn of the handle. The maximum gas flow through the gas valve may be set during installation such that the user does not need to manually determine the appropriate amount of gas during use. |
| US08282069B2 |
Cinch valve
A cinch valve includes an upper plate having a first aperture; an orbital plate rotatable relative to the upper plate and having a second aperture substantially aligned with the first aperture; an actuator coupled to the orbital plate arranged to rotate the orbital plate between a first position and a second position; and a plurality of cables each having a flexible portion and each having a first end and a second end, wherein each first end is coupled to the upper plate and each second end is coupled to the orbital plate. Rotation of the orbital plate from the first position to the second position causes the plurality of cables to converge and form a woven closure in approximately the center of the second aperture. |
| US08282066B2 |
Method of using a universal intermediate support
The present invention is a method for using a universal support consisting of one or more modules having a deformable enclosure (3) connected to a vacuum source (5) through an orifice. Said enclosure is of concave shape forming a chamber (6) provided with a flexible body (7). The method consists in the following series of steps: applying a vacuum to the chamber (6) so that the deformable enclosure (3) collapses; positioning the part which is to be supported; breaking the vacuum in the chamber (6); and applying a vacuum inside the deformable enclosure (3). |
| US08282062B2 |
Tilting device
A tilting device is disclosed. The tilting device may include: an arm, on which a tilt-shaft is formed; a tilt-base coupled to the tilt-shaft in a manner that allows tilting; a pulley rotatably coupled to the tilt-base; a wire, which is wound around the pulley, and of which either end is coupled to either side of the arm on opposite sides of the tilt-shaft; and a driving unit, which drives the pulley. An embodiment of the invention enables tilting operations using a smaller driving device, and also allows manual operations. |
| US08282061B2 |
Mounting clips and sensor installations for motorized vehicle doors
Clips for attaching sensors, cables, or other items to doors, such as retrofitted armored vehicle doors, are provided. In one example embodiment, a clip includes a strip portion, a first attachment arm extending from the strip portion, and a second attachment arm extending from the strip portion. A barb leg is disposed at an angle relative to the strip portion and includes a first leg end and a second leg end opposite the first leg end. The barb leg is connected at the first leg end to the second attachment arm, and the second leg end is disposed towards and spaced apart from the strip portion. A cable clamp extends from an end of the second attachment arm opposite the strip portion or an end of the strip portion opposite the first attachment arm. |
| US08282053B2 |
Apparatus for adjusting the length of a boat lift leg
An apparatus for adjusting the length of a leg of a boat lift is described wherein the length of the leg may either be shortened or lengthened without the necessity of entering the water in which the boat lift is positioned. |
| US08282051B2 |
Armrest assembly
An armrest assembly for use with a first control device and a second control device arranged generally in a tandem configuration is disclosed herein. The armrest assembly includes, but is not limited to, a base member configured for mounting to the horizontal surface proximate the first control device in a position aligned with the first and the second control devices. The armrest assembly also includes an arm support member movably mounted to the base member. The arm support member is configured to move between a first position and a second position. The arm support member is configured to steady a user's arm when accessing the first control device when the arm support member is in the first position. The arm support member is further configured to steady the user's arm when accessing the second control device when the arm support member is in the second position. |
| US08282048B2 |
Side-locking clamping apparatus and method
A side-locking clamp that includes a lower band and an upper band is provided. The lower band includes an arcuate body with a hinge portion disposed at a proximal end, and an extension with a mounting hole and a locking tab disposed at a distal end. The upper band includes an arcuate body with a hinge portion, disposed at a proximal end, to engage the lower band hinge portion and form a hinge about which the upper band rotates from an open position to a closed position, and an extension with a mounting hole and a locking tab, disposed at a distal end, to slidingly engage the lower band locking tab and lock the clamp when the upper band is disposed in the closed position. |
| US08282045B2 |
Craft and method of coupling a propulsion system to a regenerative fuel cell system
The invention relates to a craft comprising an energy storage system of the RFCS (regenerative fuel cell system) type and a system for pressurizing the propellants used for propulsion. The craft also comprises a plurality of means (31 to 38) for coupling the tanks of the fuel cell to the propellant-pressurizing tanks of the propulsion system of the craft when the tanks of the propellant-pressurizing system are no longer used.The invention also relates to the method of coupling the tanks of the propellant-pressurizing means to the energy storage system.The invention applies particularly to telecommunication satellites and more generally to spacecraft. |
| US08282044B2 |
Actuator device for varying the attitude of a spacecraft
An actuator device for varying the attitude of a spacecraft includes a reversible conversion chain of electrical energy to mechanical rotation energy of a flywheel. The electrical energy is stored in a capacitive element that may be a supercapacitor. The actuator device also includes an electrical power converter, connected, on one hand, to the capacitive element and intended to be connected, on the other hand, to the spacecraft power bus. The converter makes it possible to compensate for losses to keep a total energy of the actuator device constant. |
| US08282039B2 |
Device for storing life vests in a vehicle cabin
A device is provided for storing at least one emergency equipment item. The device includes, but is not limited to at least one receptacle that is positioned above passenger seats and respectively provided with an access opening and at least one closure element for closing the access opening. In order to provide simpler access, at least one emergency equipment item is held in the receptacle and connected to a pulling element that protrudes from the access opening when the closure element is opened. The closure element may be opened and closed by means of a remote-controlled locking mechanism on the receptacle. |
| US08282036B2 |
Multi wing aircraft
A multi-wing, airfoil fuselage aircraft that is capable of flying in a ground-effect mode includes a main airfoil fuselage wing, a fin that extends vertically from this wing, a pivot mount that is affixed to the fin, an auxiliary wing that connects to the pivot mount so as to allow its angle of attack to be adjusted and changed during different flight conditions, a main landing gear, an adjustable-length, stabilizing landing gear, assorted control surfaces that are movably affixed to the auxiliary wing and fin, and a ground-effect control system that is adapted to control the operation and movement of these control surfaces when the aircraft is flying in a ground-effect mode of flight. |
| US08282034B1 |
Multiple roll toilet paper holder and dispenser
Disclosed is a device and method for storing and dispensing multiple rolls of toilet paper. The present invention comprises a weighted base with an elongated vertical body, onto which several rolls of toilet paper can be placed. The top portion of the elongated body pivots, and can lock in a vertical position, allowing for storage of additional rolls of toilet paper. The top portion can also lock into a horizontal position for use of a toilet paper roll mounted thereon. Once a roll of toilet paper is depleted, a user slides a replacement roll up the vertical body, and over the pivot, where it rests on the top portion. |
| US08282032B2 |
Pre-wound sheet cut-off mechanism for thin material sheet winding device and method thereof
Disclosed is a pre-wound sheet cut-off mechanism of a thin material sheet winding device, including a first winding roller, a plurality of curved guide plates arranged at a predetermined distance below the first winding roller and distributed and spaced from each other by a predetermined distance along an axial direction of a shaft of the first winding roller, a plurality of pre-winding plates each coupled between adjacent curved guide plates, a second winding roller, and a rider roller. In a winding operation, a core is conveyed into a curved-guide-plate channel defined between the first winding roller and the curved guide plates to adhere to and pre-wind a thin material sheet that is conveyed to the first winding roller, and is thereafter transported to a winding nip to form a roll with the thin material sheet. The winding speed of the roll is reduced for preparing a next core to reach the pre-winding plates, accordingly, the thin material sheet is slacked, such that the slacked thin material sheet can be pre-wound, thereafter, the thin material sheet pre-wound continuously and the thin material sheet is gradually tensioned on the next core until the thin material sheet is torn apart. |
| US08282028B2 |
Electrostatically atomizing device
The liquid supplied to an emitter electrode located at a tip of an atomization nozzle receives the high-voltage and electrically charged. The mist of the charged minute water particles of nanometer sizes is generated from the emitter electrode. A pressure regulating means regulates a pressure applied to the liquid on the tip of the emitter electrode. Therefore, the mode of generating the mist of the charged minute water particles of nanometer sizes or the mode of generating the mist of the charged minute water particles of nanometer and micron size is selected. |
| US08282027B2 |
Electrostatically atomizing device
An electrostatic atomizing device for ejecting a mist of charged minute particles includes metal ion elution means for eluting sterilizing metal ions into a liquid to be electrostatically atomized. The metal ions are taken up by the charged minute particles, and are ejected into an environment space together with the charged minute particles, thereby eliciting a sterilizing effect. The elution amount of the metal ions is regulated by varying the voltage applied between two kinds of metal bodies. |
| US08282025B2 |
Ejector
In an ejector, a refrigerant passage of a nozzle for decompressing and expanding refrigerant includes a throat portion in which a refrigerant passage sectional area is most reduced, a first taper portion arranged downstream of the throat portion to gradually enlarge the refrigerant passage sectional area, a second taper portion arranged downstream of the first taper portion to gradually enlarge the refrigerant passage sectional area, and an end taper portion arranged in a range from an outlet side of the second taper portion to a refrigerant jet port to gradually enlarge the refrigerant passage sectional area. Furthermore, a second expanding angle at the outlet side of the second taper portion is larger than the first expanding angle at the outlet side of the first taper portion, and an end expanding angle at the outlet side of the end taper portion is smaller than the second expanding angle. |
| US08282023B2 |
Fluid storage and dispensing systems, and fluid supply processes comprising same
Fluid storage and dispensing systems, and processes for supplying fluids for use thereof. Various arrangements of fluid storage and dispensing systems are described, involving permutations of the physical sorbent-containing fluid storage and dispensing vessels and internal regulator-equipped fluid storage and dispensing vessels. The systems and processes are applicable to a wide variety of end-use applications, including storage and dispensing of hazardous fluids with enhanced safety. In a specific end-use application, reagent gas is dispensed to a semiconductor manufacturing facility from a large-scale, fixedly positioned fluid storage and dispensing vessel containing physical sorbent holding gas at subatmospheric pressure, with such vessel being refillable from a safe gas source of refill gas, as disclosed herein. |
| US08282021B2 |
Boom assembly for a hose drag system
An apparatus for application of a liquid or liquid-solid solution to soil includes an articulating tractor, a frame, a pivot point, a boom and a drag hose. The articulating tractor has a front portion and a rear portion connected to an articulation point. The rear portion has a rear wheel axle. The frame is adapted to mount on the rear portion of the articulating tractor. The frame has a front frame end located between the rear wheel axle and the articulation point. The pivot point is on the front frame end and positioned about 12 inches or more from the rear wheel axle. The boom pivotally attaches to the pivot point. The drag hose has a distal end in fluid communication with a source of liquid or solid-liquid solution and a proximal end coupled to the boom. |
| US08282019B2 |
Adjustable cold spray nozzle
A cold spray nozzle assembly includes a venturi having converging and diverging portions interconnected at a throat. An air supply conduit is in communication with the venturi for supplying a carrier gas to the converging portion. A powder feed tube is in communication with the venturi for supplying a powder material. An adjustment member is arranged within the venturi and is axially moveable relative thereto between multiple positions. The multiple positions respectively provide multiple different areas or throat clearances including a desired area between the adjustment member and the venturi or throat clearance. As a result, the adjustment member can be axially positioned to achieve desired gas pressures, deposition rates, and accommodate machining tolerances and component wear based upon the selected area. A retention member maintains the adjustment member in the desired position during operation of the cold spray nozzle assembly. |
| US08282018B2 |
Track device
Embodiments of a track device include a track section with a hollow rail, a rail support member with flanges, eccentric rail support, a cross member with a rotatably coupling, rail ferrules for mating, and rail materials including a lubricious material. |
| US08282017B2 |
Multiple cell heat transfer system
A heat transfer system comprises a plurality of cells, a plurality of heating elements, and a controller for independently controlling the plurality of heating elements. The heat transfer system is capable of maintaining a fluid temperature within a predetermined range. A second pump pumps fluid through a heat exchanger in operative relationship with the blower upon a call for heat. |
| US08282011B1 |
Tamper sensitive RFID tag
A tamper sensitive RFID tag includes a housing defining a channel that is configured to receive a portion of an object associated with the RFID tag. Included with the tamper sensitive RFID tag is a tamper sensitive RFID label that is adhesively secured to a first portion of the housing, and a second securement means for securing the RFID label to a second portion of the housing in a position between the first and second portions. |
| US08282007B1 |
Laminated cards with manual input interfaces
A laminated card is provided with manual input interfaces. Such manual input interfaces may provide tactile feedback to a user. Laminated cards may be provided as payment cards, identification cards, medical cards, or any other type of card. |
| US08282006B2 |
Imaging device operative for image processing
The invention relates to an imaging device of the type having an imaging assembly including a two dimensional image sensor. In one embodiment an imaging device can be used to obtain an area image representation. In one embodiment, the image representation can be processed. The processing of the image representation can include recognition of an indicia represented in the image representation. In one embodiment an image imaging device can output image data to a first external processing system responsively to reorganization of first indicia and can output image data to a second external processing system responsively to recognition of second indicia. |
| US08282003B2 |
Supply-chain side assistance
An apparatus, device, method, computer program product, and system that identifies an item having a presence within a geographic locale in response to a signal indicative of the item, obtains a first instance of a supply-chain assistance corresponding to the identified item from a first source and obtaining a second instance of a supply-chain assistance corresponding to the identified item from a second source; and aggregates the first supply-chain assistance and the second supply-chain assistance. |
| US08282002B2 |
Multi-barcode scan process
Scanning multiple barcodes, storing different code types, in a single scanning operation and automatically recording the data derived from the barcodes. The data can be stored in a form or database having designated locations for each different code type. In some embodiments, the present technology is useful in conducting a retail transaction and facilitates a simplified transaction when the product for purchase has multiple barcodes printed thereon. |
| US08282001B2 |
Method for data interchange
A method for data interchange includes summing up data associated with an electronic document to provide summed up data, representing the summed up data as one or more bar codes, and returning the one or more bar codes for display and data capture via a bar code scan from either a video display or a printed version of the one or more bar codes. The electronic document may be of any number of formats. The summing up may include taking data from multiple information fields to create the summed up data. The data may include data tags or a step of adding data tags to the data to assist in data interchange may be performed. |
| US08281998B2 |
Apparatus and method for commercial transactions using a communication device
An apparatus for effecting commercial transactions with a server using a transaction card via a communication device is provided. The apparatus includes a transaction device coupled with the communication device for capturing information from the transaction card and a controller for converting the captured card information into an encrypted audio signal and for transmitting the audio signal to the communication device. The communication device delivers the audio signal to the server for processing the commercial transaction. |
| US08281994B1 |
Barcode emulation in medical device consumption tracking system
An interface system for providing product identifier data to a legacy system for a unit tracking system comprises a reader for reading unit tracking information for items. The unit tracking information uniquely identifies each of the items. In one example, this unit tracking information is an RFID serial number. Then, a translator looks up universal product numbers associated with the items with which the unit tracking number is associated. The translator passes the universal product number to the legacy system. |
| US08281989B2 |
Card activated cash dispensing automated banking machine system and method
An automated banking machine system operates to cause financial transfers responsive to data read from data bearing records. The system is operative to read a financial card bearing account indicia with a card reader. A user is enabled to perform at least one banking operation responsive to account indicia read from the card. Such banking operations may include dispensing cash and accessing financial accounts. While a user operates the system to dispense cash or perform other banking operations, the system may further permit at least one portable wireless device to wirelessly access the system to conduct transactions. |
| US08281984B2 |
Constructing a combined tracking address
Systems and methods for constructing a combined tracking address and reporting tracking information using the combined tracking address are described. A code resolution response may be received from a first entity involved in resolving a mobile code. The code resolution response may include a first tracking address from the first entity and a second tracking address of a second entity involved in resolving the mobile code. The first tracking address may be combined with the second tracking address, thereby providing a combined tracking address. |
| US08281983B2 |
Method and apparatus for storing and verifying serial numbers using smart labels in an image production device
A method and apparatus for storing and verifying serial numbers using a smart label in an image production device is disclosed. The method for storing may include receiving a signal to query a smart label for serial number information, querying the smart label for serial number information, receiving the serial number information from the smart label, and storing the serial number information in a memory. The method for verifying may include receiving a signal to query a smart label for serial number information, querying the smart label for serial number information, receiving the serial number information from the smart label, determining if the serial number matches a serial number stored in the image production device, wherein if it is determined that the serial number matches the stored serial number performing requested image production device operations, otherwise sending an error signal. |
| US08281976B2 |
Method of making multi-component composite metallic tube
A method for forming a multi-component composite metallic tube, in particular, a bi-component metallic tube, comprises the steps of forming a coextrudable, multi-component billet including an inner component formed from a first metallic material, and an outer component formed from a second metallic material. Notably, explosive bonding is employed for bonding the first and second components to form a metallurgical bond at the interface thereof, thus forming the desired multi-component billet. The multi-component billet is subsequently heated, and coextruded to form a multi-component tubular structure, having a metallurgical bond at an interface between inner and outer layers of the composite metallic tube. |
| US08281975B2 |
Surgical apparatus and structure for applying sprayable wound treatment material
According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an apparatus for forming an anastomosis between adjacent sections of tissue is provided. The apparatus includes a body portion; an actuation assembly operatively supported at a proximal end of the body portion; an anvil assembly movably mounted at the distal end of the body portion for movement toward and away from the body portion; an approximation assembly extending between the body portion and the anvil assembly for moving the anvil toward and away from the tubular body portion; a dispersion assembly operatively associated with the approximation assembly, the dispersion assembly including at least one angled surface defining at least one channel interposed between the anvil assembly and the body portion and being configured to dispense a fluid therefrom; and at least one conduit for conducting wound treatment material to the dispersion assembly. |
| US08281974B2 |
Surgical stapler with suture locator
An anvil assembly comprising an anvil shaft and an anvil head, the anvil head having anvil depressions for forming surgical staples, and the anvil head mounted to the anvil shaft. The anvil shaft has a longitudinal axis and a helical slot formed therein. A disc is movable along the slot to a selected position to selectively adjust the positioning of a purse string suture. |
| US08281971B2 |
Labor-saving stapler
A labor-saving stapler of the present invention includes a base, a press arm, a transmission arm, a connection arm, a magazine, a staple pusher, a moving mechanism, a buckling mechanism and a switching mechanism. The magazine is slidably disposed between the connection arm and the base. The moving means moves the magazine outwardly when the switching mechanism is activated. As such, the magazine can be opened by operating the switching mechanism. When the switching mechanism includes a button or the same, users can open the magazine easily with only one hand. |
| US08281969B2 |
Equipment rack for trailers
Trailer racks, and more particularly to straddle-type trailer racks for closed trailers, which racks include a load platform supported by legs mounted directly to the trailer sub-frame, fit within the foot-print of the trailer wheels, do not interfere with side and rear doors, and are spaced from and not supported on the trailer body top nor rely on it for structural rigidity. The inventive straddle-type trailer rack can also be adapted for use with open trailers. A wide range of options are available, including equipment brackets secured to the legs that can also be used as steps, lockable keeper assemblies, dual function lockable safety cross braces, catwalk for the load platform, access ladder, and forward extensions. The inventive rack is also configurable in kit form. |
| US08281966B2 |
Bracelet fastening device
A bracelet fastening device with a spring biased clasp gripping member, a bendable metal rod, a holding member, a sliding member, a spring post, and a resilient rod covering member. The holding member is ball shaped at one end and slidably engages with the sliding member and attached rod. The clasp gripping member is constructed like a standard alligator clip and is fixed to the opposite end of the bendable metal rod. The spring post is located within the sliding member and can engage one of a plurality of recesses inside the holding member so that the user can adjust the overall length of the device. The bendable metal rod is covered by the resilient rod covering. The rod and covering can be bent so that the clasp gripping member is in close proximity to the clasp being fastened. |
| US08281965B2 |
Garment hanger with top sizer
In accordance with one embodiment, a garment hanger for use with a top sizer clip includes a body having a cross bar and a hook member extending outwardly therefrom. The hook member includes a web portion having an inner edge and an opposing outer edge, wherein the hook member terminates in a curved distal end and includes a neck portion that connects the hook member to the cross bar. The neck portion is defined by a portion of the outer edge that faces one end of the cross bar and a portion of the inner edge that faces an opposite end of the cross bar. The outer edge in the neck portion has a concave shape, while the inner edge in the neck portion has a convex shape. |
| US08281964B2 |
Rotary stirring device for treating molten metal
Rotary device for treating molten metal has a hollow shaft with a rotor having a roof and a base spaced apart and connected by a plurality of dividers. A passage extends between each adjacent pair of dividers and the roof and the base. A flow path extends through the shaft into inlets of the passages and out of outlets. A chamber in which mixing of the molten metal and gas can take place is located radially inwardly of the inlets, has an opening in the base of the rotor and is in the flowpath between the shaft and the inlets. Upon rotation of the device, molten metal is drawn into the chamber through the rotor base where it is mixed with gas passing into the chamber from the shaft. The metal/gas dispersion is pumped into the passages through the inlets before discharge from the rotor through the outlets. |
| US08281963B2 |
Dispensing apparatus
A dispensing apparatus includes a mounting plate and a dispenser fixed to the mounting plate. The dispenser includes a nozzle valve, a valve plug, an actuating shaft, and a nozzle. The nozzle valve defines a cavity containing a material, and defines an inlet opening on a sidewall thereof to communicate with the cavity. The valve plug is disposed in the cavity. The actuating shaft extends through an end of the nozzle valve, and is connected to the valve plug. The nozzle is disposed at the other end of the nozzle valve facing the actuating shaft. The actuating shaft moves the valve plug away from or closer to the nozzle so as to close or open the inlet opening. |
| US08281962B2 |
Coating container
A tongue and groove arrangement guides an outer cap in an axial direction with respect to an inner cap. When a cap is fixed to a mouth of a container body, the outer cap is located in a direction of separating from the inner cap in the axial direction, and an inner face of a top wall of the outer cap is separated from a valve to urge the valve in a direction of projecting from a discharge hole of an inside plug, causing the discharge hole to close. When the cap is detached and removed from the mouth, the outer cap is moved in a direction of approaching the inner cap in the axial direction, and the inner face abuts the valve urged in a direction of separating from the discharge hole while resisting against an urging member, causing the discharge hole to open. |
| US08281959B2 |
Dosage-dispensing device for powders and pastes
A dosage-dispensing device, which can be used for dosage materials in the form of powders or pastes, includes a housing with at least one receptacle compartment formed inside the housing for the purpose of holding the dosage material. The dosage-dispensing device further includes at least one dispensing head that comprises an elastic material and has an outlet for the dosage material. In the non-stressed condition, i.e. when there is no mechanical force or pressure acting on it, the outlet is tightly closed against the outside. When a force or pressure is applied, the outlet opens up, with the aperture width being variable, dependent on the applied force. Furthermore, inside the receptacle compartment and/or the dispensing head, there is at least one mechanical actuator element arranged through which the outlet can be opened. |
| US08281949B2 |
Product display container having hinged side panels with a slidable gate member to selectively block access through a port in at least one side panel
Systems and methods include unfolding a product bin from a flat configuration to vertical configuration to define a portion of a product enclosure. The product bin comprises a plurality of sections hinged end-to-end in a chain. A free end of a first one of the sections in the chain is releasably connected to a free end of a last one of the sections in the chain with a support member. The support member is fastened to an object such that the plurality of sections and the object combine to define a product enclosure. A plurality of products is placed in the product enclosure. |
| US08281948B2 |
Overpack salvage drum
An overpack salvage drum including a drum body for holding a package to be overpacked, a lid adapted to be rotatably threaded onto the drum body to seal the package held in the drum body therein, and a clip adapted to be operatively associated with the lid before the lid is rotatably threaded onto the drum body. The clip is adapted to break in preference to the lid and the drum body in the event that the initial integrity of the seal between the lid and the drum body is compromised. |
| US08281946B1 |
Hose concealing device
A hose concealing device adapted to contain and conceal a coiled hose within an inner cavity is described. The inner cavity resides beneath a planting receptacle, which is equipped with drainage means that permits water to drain therefrom, rather than accumulating within the planting receptacle. The drainage means is adapted to collect excess water from the planting receptacle and prevent the water from dripping onto or otherwise contaminating the coiled hose. |
| US08281944B2 |
Anti-tamper closure
The present invention relates to an anti-tamper closure (1, 1′) for threaded bottles (100, 100′) comprising an outer cap (20, 20′) and an outer skirt (22, 22′) which is connected to the outer cap (20, 20′) prior to initial opening, and an inner cap (30, 30′) and an inner annular element (32, 32′) which is connected to the inner cap (30, 30′) prior to initial opening, in which the inner annular element (32, 32′) is connected to the inner cap (30, 30′) with respect to both rotation and translation by inner connection means (31, 31′) which render the inner annular element (32, 32′) free to rotate and to translate relative to the inner cap (30, 30′) after initial opening. |
| US08281943B2 |
Shelving system
A shelving system includes a frame with vertical frame members and cross braces, a shelf with three-sided perimeter groove and under-shelf groove, a wire perimeter shelf support engaging the perimeter groove and vertical frame members, and a wire under-shelf support constructed to engage the under-shelf groove and the vertical legs in a stable arrangement. The assembled shelving system does not require tools or separate fasteners for assembly, and assembly is quick, easy and intuitive, yet allows for flexibility, customization, and adaptation for different uses and desired aesthetics. A variety of very different shelving systems can be constructed by purchasing different frames, shelves, and accessories. The system can be leaned against a wall at an angle, or fastened vertically against a wall. Shelves are angularly adjustable, height adjustable, and replaceable. A pair of systems angled against each other form a free standing arrangement, and can support a header panel therebetween. |
| US08281942B2 |
Folding and wall-mountable frame such as for a drying device
A frame which can be moved between a folded-in position and a folded-out position includes suspension means for suspending the frame from a vertical element, an arm assembly having at least three arms and a rod assembly which cooperates with the arm assembly. The arm and rod assemblies are designed such that the arms may extend between a folded-in position and a folded-out position. The suspension means cooperate with a section of the arm assembly and/or with a section of the rod assembly which is/are at the periphery of the planes defined by the assemblies. |
| US08281941B2 |
Holder for box-shaped articles of different sizes
A holder or rack for storing and displaying a plurality of flat box-shaped articles in a substantially vertical and mutual parallel arrangement, comprising at least two mutual parallel and laterally extending rigid beams spaced one above the other in the vertical direction by at least one rigid spacer member, the upper of the beams has a downward extending flange portion providing an upper abutment stop and the lower of the beams has an upward extending flange portion providing a lower abutment stop, each of the beams has on its front side a substantially horizontal and laterally extending projection defining a vertical gap between itself and the other projection, the lower horizontal projection has a substantially smooth and planar horizontal top surface defining a support ledge and the upper horizontal projection has an underside provided with a laterally extending groove adapted to receive and retain an elongated rubber-elastic member having in cross section a wedge-shaped lip portion projecting substantially vertical downwards from the underside of the upper horizontal projection when inserted and retained in the groove so as to form a grip or barb, which holder is characterized in that the at least one rigid spacer member is provided with a member for adjusting the vertical distance between the upper and lower horizontal projections. |
| US08281937B2 |
Compact fluid purification device with manual pumping mechanism
According to one exemplary embodiment, a compact fluid purification device includes a housing having an inlet for receiving unfiltered liquid and an open end and a first valve disposed within the inlet and being configured to only permit unfiltered liquid to flow into a hollow interior of the housing. The device has a plunger received within the open end such that it slides within the interior of the housing. The plunger is movable between a fully extended position and a fully retracted position, wherein the plunger has an elongated housing that includes a filter element, such as, a plurality of hollow filter elements that are open at a distal end of the plunger housing and are in communication with an outlet that is associated with the plunger. Movement of the plunger toward the fully extended position causes unfiltered liquid to be drawn into the interior of the housing and the device includes a second valve disposed within the outlet and being configured to only permit filtered liquid to be discharged from the plunger housing. The unfiltered liquid is filtered when the plunger is moved toward the fully retracted position causing the unfiltered liquid in the interior to flow into the inside of the filter elements and then across the filter elements and into the outlet. |
| US08281934B1 |
Screen panel retainer system
A screen panel retainer assembly, that is utilizable with a vibrating separatory machine, is configured with a plurality of discrete, mushroom-shaped screen panel retainers. Each such retainer has a retainer head that is generally in the shape of a portion of a cylinder, such as a right cylinder. A shank connects each such retainer head to a suitable retainer bar. The retainer bar can be adapted to be attached either to screen stringer tubes of the vibrating separatory machine, or to underlying cross tubes and end cross tubes. The screen panels, which are to be secured to the vibrating separatory machine, have complementary shaped mushroom-shaped screen panel retainer head receiving chambers in their side surfaces. Two such panel edges define a whole chamber. The retainer heads are metal whereas the screen panel edges are resilient. The mushroom-shaped heads securely snap into their complementary chambers yet can be removed from those chambers when the screen panels have to be replaced. |
| US08281933B2 |
Rider bar for screening element or wear-resistant lining
A rider bar (5) is essentially made of elastomeric material. The rider bar (5) is intended for a surface of a screen cloth (1) or a wear-resistant lining over which pieces or particles of material are intended to move. The rider bar (5) comprises a wear-resistant element (6). |
| US08281932B2 |
Apparatus and method for efficient particle to gas bubble attachment in a slurry
The present invention relates to an apparatus and a process for efficient hydrophobic particles to gas bubble attachment in a slurry is provided. The process comprises: tangentially introducing a slurry stream into a cylindrical chamber having a cylindrical inner wall with sufficient volume and pressure to develop a vortex in the flowing slurry; introducing gas into the flowing slurry during at least a portion of its travel in the chamber, the gas being introduced orthogonally to the stream through means located at the chamber inner wall and for developing gas bubbles which move into the slurry. The apparatus comprises of: a cylindrical chamber having a cylindrical inner wall, the chamber being oriented in any direction, enclosed at both ends, and with an entry port to introduce the stream of slurry to develop a spiral flow of the stream along the chamber inner wall toward the output end, a porous wall to permit the introduction of gas orthogonally into the stream to develop gas bubbles within the stream, and an exit port to discharge the mixture of slurry and gas bubbles. |
| US08281928B2 |
Inflatable box
The present invention is an inflatable box which can come in any shape or size and be made up of any rigid material. The box is uniquely designed to allow for a simple one step process using a box with an integrated inflating tube and bottom liner to expand internally by inflation which cushions the article to be shipped 3 dimensionally thus completely protecting the article and removing the need for peanuts, paper or other fillers in boxes used for shipping goods once the box is closed. |
| US08281921B2 |
Container enabling mixing at least two substances therein
A plural chambered container for storing separately a plurality of substances for mixing prior to opening the container. The container comprises a closed outer container having a side wall, bottom and top. It further comprises an inner chamber with a designated opening area, wherein the inner chamber is operatively attached to the bottom of the outer container. In addition the outer container is filled with a first substance and the inner chamber is filled with a second substance. The outer container is filled with a one substance and the inner chamber is filled with another substance. Upon pressing the side walls of said outer container, the designated opening area is opened thereby causing the substance in the inner chamber to mix with the substance in the outer container. |
| US08281915B2 |
Automatic transmission including clutch devices
An automatic transmission including a first clutch selectively connecting a first rotary member and a second rotary member disposed coaxially with the first rotary member, a second clutch selectively connecting the first rotary member and a third rotary member disposed coaxially with the first rotary member, a first drum in which a first piston of the first clutch is axially slidably received, a second drum disposed coaxially with the first drum, to accommodate the first drum, and in which a second piston of the second clutch is axially slidably received, an abutting portion abutting contact of the first and second drums with each other in an axial direction of the first and second drums, and a fitting portion at which the first drum is fitted in the second drum and that inhibits relative rotation of the first and second drums about a common axis of the first and second drums. |
| US08281912B2 |
Stampable thrust washer with flow cutouts
A stampable thrust washer for a torque converter including an inner circumference, an outer circumference, and a plurality of cutouts disposed in the thrust washer, wherein the cutouts are in fluid communication with the inner and outer circumferences when said thrust washer is engaged between two rotationally engaged components. |
| US08281911B2 |
Active vibration isolation system which is more effective against seismic vibration
The invention relates to an active vibration isolation system in which at least one sensor is provided for detection of ground vibration, and the system has a control device which calculates compensation signals in at least two degrees of freedom, based on movements of the ground. |
| US08281909B2 |
Vehicle drum brake
A vehicle drum brake includes: a first brake shoe; a second brake shoe; a parking brake lever connected with the second brake shoe; a pull unit connected with the parking brake lever; a strut including a curved portion which is curved towards an outer circumferential side of the backing plate, the strut being disposed between a portion of the parking brake lever which lies closer to the portion where the pull mechanism is connected than the portion where the parking brake lever is attached and the first brake shoe; a strut return spring for returning the strut in a non-operating state to its initial position is provided to extend between the strut and the second brake shoe; and an engagement hole formed in the curved portion of the strut for one end portion of the strut return spring to be brought into engagement therewith. |
| US08281908B2 |
Brake cooling fluid diverter for an off-highway machine
The disclosure relates, in one aspect, to a friction brake cooling system for a machine. The cooling system includes at least one pump connected to at least one reservoir containing cooling fluid. A controller is configured to divert a cooling fluid flow through a valve to a first friction brake system and to a second friction brake system based on the use of the systems. In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a method of cooling a first friction brake system and a second friction brake system including diverting a flow of brake cooling fluid to the systems based on the use of the systems. |
| US08281906B2 |
Braking apparatus
The present embodiments relate to a braking apparatus, in particular for slowing down a carriage, with a brake pad, which is formed using a magnetic material, at least one first spring to press the brake pad onto a surface for the purposes of braking and an electromagnet. The brake pad, the at least one first spring and the electromagnet are disposed and embodied in such a manner that when current flows through the electromagnet a force acts on the brake pad by way of the magnetic material, compensating for the action of the at least one first spring on the brake pad in such a manner that the brake pad assumes a position, in which braking cannot take place due to the pressure of the brake pad. The braking apparatus allows braking independently of the material characteristics of the environment in which the braking apparatus is deployed. |
| US08281896B2 |
Drain plug housing and drain plug apparatus for use with oil pans
A drain plug housing body coupled to the interior of an oil pan, which receives, via threaded portions, an extended length drain plug. The drain plug housing further comprises a first threaded aperture having a first diameter terminating at the interior of the oil pan and a second threaded aperture having a second diameter greater than the first diameter, with a hollow cavity therein between. The drain plug is a substantially cylindrical bolt of varying diameters having a first male threaded portion and a second male threaded portion on its shaft that are compatible, respectively, with each of the threaded apertures of the drain plug housing. |
| US08281894B2 |
Floating harness
A safety harness and a method of integrating the safety harness into apparel such as a firefighter's turnout suit. The safety harness may include a waist strap, a leg strap for encircling a wearer's leg, and a support strap slideably attached to the waist strap. |
| US08281893B2 |
Variable transmission ratio mechanism and variable ratio steering device
A variable transmission ratio mechanism comprises: an input member capable of rotating around a first axis; and an intermediate member that allows the differential rotation of the output member. The intermediate member is capable of rotating around a second axis that is slanted relative to the first axis. On first and second power transmission surfaces of the intermediate member, corresponding first and second engaging sections are respectively arranged according to corresponding first and second arrangement pitch circles centered on the second axis. On corresponding first and second engagement circles centered on the first axis, the first and second engaging sections are respectively engageable with corresponding first and second engageable sections. The diameter of the first arrangement pitch circle differs from the diameter of the second arrangement pitch circle. |
| US08281886B2 |
Electric motor control device, drive device and hybrid drive device
An electric motor control device includes an inverter that supplies an output of a primary-side DC power supply to an electric motor to control driving of the electric motor; a converter that includes a voltage increasing power supply device that increases a voltage of the primary-side DC power supply to supply the inverter with the increased voltage as a secondary voltage, and a regenerative power supply device that reversely supplies regenerative power from the inverter to the primary-side DC power supply; a secondary-side target voltage determination unit; a converter control unit; and an electric motor control unit. |
| US08281879B2 |
Method of drilling a wellbore
A method of drilling a wellbore comprises arranging a drill string and an expandable tubular in the wellbore such that a lower end portion of the wall of the tubular extends radially outward and in an axially reverse direction so as to form an expanded section extending around a remaining section of the tubular, drill string extending through the remaining section, and axially extending the expanded section by moving the remaining section downward relative to the expanded section so that the lower end portion of the wall bends radially outward and in an axially reverse direction, wherein the expanded section covers the wellbore wall in an upper portion of the wellbore. The drill string is operated so as to drill a lower wellbore portion, and a compound is transferred between the lower wellbore portion and a layer of the earth formation surrounding the lower wellbore portion. |
| US08281877B2 |
Method and apparatus for drilling with casing
A top drive system includes a top drive, top drive adapter, and a tubular positioning apparatus. In another aspect, the top drive adapter includes a housing operatively connected to the top drive and a plurality of retaining members disposed in the housing for gripping the tubular. In another aspect, the tubular positioning apparatus includes a gripping member for engaging a tubular and a conveying member for positioning the gripping member. A spinner may be provided to rotate the tubular. |
| US08281873B2 |
Hand-held power tool
The invention relates to a hand-held power tool, in particular a hammer drill which has a hammer drive, a rotary drive, a switching device, and a main output element. The switching device has a slide mechanism, which is designed for switching between different operating modes. According to the invention, the slide mechanism has at least one coupling element, which in at least one operating mode is directly coupled to a coupling element, the latter being rotationally fixed to the main output element. |
| US08281872B2 |
Drill hammer with three modes of operation
A drill hammer for the three operation modes of drilling, chiseling, and hammer-drilling has a motor with a motor shaft; a gear with an intermediate shaft, a driving gear wheel, a toothed slaving shaft , a shifting hub, and a driven gear wheel; a percussion mechanism with a wobble disk and a wobble gear wheel; and a driven shaft with a driving gear wheel and a drill chuck. The gear is configured to be changed over easily without axial displacement of running gears that mesh with one another so that the drill hammer is more robust, shorter or more compact, and lighter in weight. The drill hammer is thus simply and economically constructed and whose efficiency is not impaired by the gear shifting mechanism. |
| US08281864B2 |
Apparatus and method for recovering fluids from a well and/or injecting fluids into a well
Methods and apparatus for diverting fluids either into or from a well are described. Some embodiments include a diverter conduit that is located in a bore of a tree. The invention relates especially but not exclusively to a diverter assembly connected to a wing branch of a tree. Some embodiments allow diversion of fluids out of a tree to a subsea processing apparatus followed by the return of at least some of these fluids to the tree for recovery. Alternative embodiments provide only one flowpath and do not include the return of any fluids to the tree. Some embodiments can be retrofitted to existing trees, which can allow the performance of a new function without having to replacing the tree. Multiple diverter assembly embodiments are also described. |
| US08281863B2 |
Detachable electrical actuator
A removable module for actuating elements, such as valves, within a subsea production tree. The module can include a motor, a drive shaft, and a ball screw. Embodiments exist where only the motor is removable, optionally the motor and drive shaft and/or all module elements are removable. A fail safe system is included that moves the production tree element into a pre-designated fail safe position. |
| US08281858B2 |
Shot perforator device and method for water well bore decommissioning
Application of the method and device to a water well will permanently seal the well casing in order to prevent hydraulic cross-contamination with other water wells in the area. The method employs a string to explosive modules in spaced relation along the depth of a well casing. This weighted string of explosive modules is lowered into the well casing, wet concrete should then be introduced into the casing, after which the explosive elements are detonated sequentially, starting at the top of the well. Detonation of the elements in such a manner should force the wet concrete or cement out through the well casing perforations, so that the well casing will be entirely captured within the cured concrete. The individual explosive elements are made from detonating cord and metallic ball bearings wrapped into bundles, and then the bundles are bound in suitable adhesive tape. |
| US08281854B2 |
Connector for mounting screen to base pipe without welding or swaging
A subterranean screen system features openings in a base pipe and sleeve sections of a porous material that preferably swells in the borehole to span an annular space around the base pipe. Retainers are mounted to the base pipe in a desired location and mechanically fixated using an internal grip system actuated through the wall of the retainer. A wedging action of slip segments is initiated by an angularly advancing assembly through the wall of the retainer. The retainer can have end rings extending past one or both ends over which the screen sleeve extends. Flat or ridges on the exterior of the retainer or end rings make assembly easier with hand tools to allow for rapid field assembly, if needed. Filtration occurs through the sleeves that abut the borehole wall and into the base pipe openings and to the surface. |
| US08281852B2 |
Coiled tubing quick connect
A bottom hole assembly supported by coiled tubing has components attached to each other with quick connections that do not require threading to provide the integral connection capable of supporting the BHA's required, torque, tensile and pressure loads. This quick connect feature provides torque transmission capability and does not need rig equipment such as tongs for makeup. Connecting the components is faster and safer particularly when the connections have to be made well above a rig floor. The lower end of the coiled tubing connector can also be provided with a quick connection half to mate with the uppermost tool in the bottom hole assembly. |
| US08281849B2 |
Heat exchanger
The invention relates to a heat exchanger with at least two plate-shaped flow ducts which are in parallel to one another and at a distance from one another and have a flow connection through at least one connecting duct (8) which spans the distance. It is proposed that the at least one connecting duct (8) be formed by two self-centering tube connectors (4, 6) which can be plugged one into the other. |
| US08281847B2 |
Roll-up shade apparatus for vehicle
There is provided a roll-up shade apparatus which can ensure a larger open dimension of a shade. The roll-up shade apparatus comprises a pair of first wire drums which travel and rotate in a wire wind-up direction or a wire feed direction when the shade is moved in the open direction or the closing direction, a pair of second wire drums which are coupled to a retractor so as to be rotatable together with the retractor, and which are rotatably provided at both sides of the retractor coaxially therewith so that a wire wind-up direction becomes opposite to a shade wind-up direction of the retractor, and a pair of wires suspended between the respective first and second wire drums so that the second wire drums rotate in a wire feed direction or in a wire wind-up direction when the first wire drums rotate in the wire wind-up direction or in the wire feed direction, respectively. |
| US08281846B2 |
Curtain
A curtain includes a curtain bracket (1) having an end to which a rotation driving device (3) is mounted. The rotation driving device (3) can actuate a curtain reeling drum (4A) to rotate a curtain cloth (7) or actuate a reeling rope device (4) to rotate a curtain cloth or shade (7). A reverse rotation releasing device (5) and a resilience reverse rotation mechanism (14) are connected to the rotation driving device (3). The rotation driving device (3) is comprised of a pull rope rotary disc (3c), a unidirectional clutch device (6) connected to the pull rope rotary disc (3c), and a rewinding spring (3e) mounted between the pull rope rotary disc (3c) and a pull rope rotary disc box (3a). Thus, only one cord is sufficient to control opening of the curtain cloth or shade (7), and reverse rotation of the curtain reel drum (4A) is not adversely affected by the rotation driving device (3). It is convenient to use while avoiding injury to children. |
| US08281845B2 |
Roll-up retractable sheet device
A device that can be used as an advertising display device, an information display device or as a shade or screen that has novel ways to charge the sheet retraction spring, novel ways to prevent tampering with the charge on the spring once the device in operation and that may utilize a pull bar which allows identification of information on the sheet while in a rolled-up state without an additional label. |
| US08281841B2 |
Folding storm shutters
The folding storm shutter provides a shutter for protecting a window during inclement weather, and shade similar to that provided by an awning when window protection is not required. The folding storm shutter has an upper shutter panel and a lower shutter panel pivotally attached to the lower edge of the upper shutter panel so that the lower shutter panel can be extended to cover the entire window, and, alternatively, the lower shutter panel can be placed in a folded configuration against the upper shutter panel when not needed for window protection. A latching mechanism is provided for selectively retaining the lower shutter panel in the folded configuration. Hinges pivotally attach the upper shutter panel to the window frame. A rod removably supported by brackets on opposite sides of the window may be used to support the shutter in the folded configuration. |
| US08281839B2 |
Coupling structure, coupling process and coupling apparatus of laminate film
A coupled portion of mutual laminate films sufficiently contributes to the formation of a packaging bag in that the coupled portion itself has excellent air tightness and liquid tightness. The tensile strength required for the laminate film is given to the coupled portion, whereby a temporary stop of a packaging apparatus is useless when a connecting portion of the laminate film is passed through the apparatus, thereby enhancing the operation efficiency and improving the yield of the material. Oriented base film layers are joined in a mitre form at the coupled portion between a rear end portion and a front end portion of laminate films comprising oriented base film layers and sealant layers. |
| US08281836B2 |
Run flat tire
Provided is a run flat tire having an enhanced ride comfort in running on general road surfaces and an enhanced driving stability on snowy road surfaces at the time when the tire is not punctured, as well as an enhanced maneuverability, particularly starting ability, on icy road surfaces in run-flat running where the tire is punctured. Three belt layers (8, 9, 10) are disposed on an outer circumferential side of a carcass layer (6) in a tread portion (4). In addition, as to the three belt layers, the cord angle α of the innermost belt layer (8) with respect to a circumferential direction of the tire is set at 15° to 30°, the cord angle β of the intermediate belt layer (9) with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire is set at not less than 40°, and the cord angle γ of the outermost belt layer (10) with respect to the circumferential direction of the tire is set at 35° to 70°. |
| US08281825B2 |
Fuel filler port closing apparatus
A fuel filler port closing apparatus including an opening (44) of a filler neck or an opening (211) of a nozzle guide (21) securely and reliably sealed, even when a seal packing (325) sags, bends or deflects. Sealing is realized by a flapper (3) including a rotation plate (31) which rotates and flaps, and a seal plate (32) having the seal packing (325) moving freely in an up and down direction with respect to the rotation plate (31). |
| US08281820B2 |
Apparatus and method for flowing compressed fluids into and out of containment
Methods for loading a compressed fluid, such as natural gas, into and discharging the compressed fluid out of containment are provided. The compressed fluid is injected into a bottom portion of a container system for storage and/or transport until a target pressure is reached after which gas is withdrawn from an upper portion of the container system at a rate to maintain the target pressure while the compressed fluid is injected in the bottom portion. The compressed fluid is cooled through an expansion valve and by refrigerated chillers or by injecting a cold liquid of the same chemical composition as the compressed fluid, such as liquid natural gas, into the compressed fluid prior to injection into the container system. Withdrawal or discharge from the container system to a receiving facility begins with blow down from the bottom portion of the container system without a displacement fluid and continues until pressure falls below an acceptable differential pressure. The discharge stream is passed through a separator and a light gas from the separator is pressurized and injected into an upper portion of the container system to drive the compressed fluid out the bottom. The light gas is pressurized using either a compressor or a heated tank system, where two vessels operate in parallel, trapping and heating the light gas and then discharging to the container system from one while filling the other and alternating the operation between the two. |
| US08281814B2 |
Water supply valve cartridge
A water supply valve cartridge in which a flow rate control rotary disk has a reduced size, so that surface friction between the flow rate control rotary disk and a flow rate control fixed disk is minimized, thus improving manipulation efficiency of the water supply valve while opening or closing the valve, and which does not sensitively respond to flatness allowance due to the reduced size of the rotary disk, thus executing stable opening and closing operation. The flow rate control fixed disk (140) has water discharge holes (142). The flow rate control rotary disk (150) has a diameter to cover only the area around the water discharge holes (142), with a pair of flow rate control grooves (151) formed on the rotary disk (150) to open only the water discharge holes (142) during rotation. |
| US08281812B2 |
Valve with low friction coating
Embodiments of the present invention feature a method and device for controlling the flow of fluid. One embodiment of the device for controlling the flow of fluid comprises a rotor, stator and compression means. The rotor has a rotor fluid communication means and at least one rotor load bearing surface. The rotor load bearing surface sealably engages a stationary load bearing surface. The rotor is capable of assuming a first position and a second position by rotation. The stator has a stationary load bearing surface having stator fluid communication means. The stationary load bearing surface sealably engages the rotor load bearing surface and permits rotation of the rotor with respect to the stator. At least one of the rotor bearing surface and said stator load bearing surface has a diamond-like carbon-silica coating. |
| US08281804B2 |
Pressure relief valves
Pressure relief valves are described herein. An example pressure relief valve includes a body having external threads to threadably engage another body having a pressurized chamber. Additionally, the pressure relief valve includes a relief valve orifice that is threadably engaged with the body via internal threads of the body. The relief valve orifice includes a seating surface. Further, the pressure relief valve includes a pressure-balanced piston assembly that is slidably movable within the body relative to the relief valve orifice and the seating surface to control the flow of fluid between the pressurized chamber and the relief valve orifice. |
| US08281800B2 |
Faucet mounting sleeve
A system for mounting a faucet to the exterior portion of a dwelling is provided. A mounting sleeve is employed that is associated with a tube that is interconnected to the faucet that is generally positioned outside of a dwelling. The tube is rigidly interconnected to a mounting sleeve that is supported by at least one bracket that allows for selective adjustments. That is, the mounting sleeve may be selectively offset from the interior surface of the dwelling, thereby accommodating exterior building surfaces with irregular shapes such as stone, brick, mortar, stucco, etc. The mounting system provides additional rigidity to the faucet/dwelling interconnection. |
| US08281795B2 |
Retractable awning
A retractable awning, comprising a screen which may be extended and retracted, wherein there is provided a first motor arranged to extend the screen, a second motor arranged to retract the screen, and a control unit arranged to control the first and second motors, wherein the first and second motors are synchronized so as to maintain tension in the screen within predetermined values. |
| US08281789B2 |
Cuffed medical tubes
A cuffed silicone tracheostomy tube has two tapered recesses (17) and (18) on its outer surface in which opposite ends (7) and (8) of a resilient cuff 6 are bonded using an adhesive or solvent. Two shallow ribs (22) and (23) extend around the tube on the inner edge of each recess (17) and (18), projecting outwardly to prevent the adhesive or solvent spreading onto the inflatable portion (10) of the cuff (6). The cuff (6) has several shallow ribs (9) extending around the cuff and spaced along its inflatable portion (10) to promote even inflation. |
| US08281787B2 |
Bio-mask with integral sensors
A system including a mask to detect an EEG signal and to deliver a gas, the mask having a forehead support extending from the body and adapted to contact a forehead surface of the patient during use, the forehead support having a plurality of sensors located thereon for detecting electrophysiological signals of the patient, with the plurality of sensors including EEG sensors positioned proximate to FP1/FP2 standard electrode placement positions of the patient, a gas delivery device in fluid communication with the mask and having an adjustable gas output, and a control system for determining a sleep stage from EEG signals detected by the mask and adjusting a gas delivery device based on the sleep stage. |
| US08281783B2 |
Thermal absorber with gravity counterflow regeneration for solar AMTEC power systems
A thermal absorber including a light-transparent reservoir having an alkali metal received therein, a housing sealingly coupled to the reservoir to define an enclosed volume, the housing including a thermal barrier wall that divides the volume into a cold chamber and a hot chamber, the cold chamber including a sump having a drain hole in fluid communication with the hot chamber, and at least one AMTEC cell supported by the cell supporting surface, the AMTEC cell extending through the cold chamber and the hot chamber. |
| US08281775B1 |
Synchronized compound archery bow
A rigging structure for a compound archery bow includes first and second pulley assemblies, pivotally mounted on axles at tips of corresponding first and second limbs of a compound bow and interconnected by cables. Each pulley assembly includes a dynamic synchronizing component, and the rigging preferably also includes structure adapted to avoid the usual leaning moment imposed upon the pulley assemblies by the cables of conventional riggings. |
| US08281772B2 |
Glow plug heater control
Methods and systems for operating a glow plug are disclosed. In one example, current supplied to a glow plug can be controlled to promote combustion stability of a cylinder after an engine start. Engine feedgas hydrocarbons may be reduced during conditions where combustion stability may be otherwise reduced in order to reduce tailpipe emissions. |
| US08281771B2 |
Exhaust gas recirculation valve in vehicle
An exhaust gas recirculation valve in a vehicle has two valves that are controlled individually by using one driving source. The exhaust gas recirculation valve enables secure operation of a vehicle even if the driving source is out of order. The exhaust gas recirculation EGR valve includes a driving unit having a driving motor for rotating a motor shaft and an interlocking unit for receiving rotational force from the motor shaft. A rod portion moves upon reception of the rotational force. A valve unit at an end portion of the rod portion controls a flow rate of the exhaust gas. A valve housing is coupled to the driving unit as one unit and has an EGR port and a bypass port. The interlocking unit includes a valve return member for rotating the motor shaft forcibly to make the valve unit to move to an initial position. |
| US08281770B2 |
Catalytic fuel oil economizer in oil lines of motor vehicle
The present invention discloses Aa vehicle oil-way catalytic fuel economizer which includes a catalyzing device, a heating box enveloping the catalyzing device, electric heating temperature controlling parts, return oil amount regulating parts and a return pipeline for economizing fuel oil. The catalyzing device includes a metal box, catalyzing stack sealed in the metal box, inlet and outlet joint communicating with the gaps of the catalyzing stack. The oil inlet is connected with the outlet of the pumping oil pipe, and the oil outlet is connected with main flown pipeline of the engine. The return pipeline for economizing fuel oil is connected between the inlet of the catalyzing device and original return pipeline of the vehicle engine. The present invention heats a catalytic stack using by the electricity of a vehicle storage battery. The fuel can converse a gas with a plurality of small molecules by the effect of accelerant and heat energy as the fuel through the gap of the catalytic stack, and then entrances into an engine cylinder and burns. The catalytic fuel economizer not only can burn the fuel completely and improve the heat efficiency of the engine, but also can decline the oil wear of electrical-spray vehicle in 100 kilometers of 40%-42% and decline the oil wear of carburetor vehicle in 100 kilometers of 48%-52%, and also takes off the contaminant in exhaust gas of the vehicle. |
| US08281769B2 |
System and method for venting fuel vapors in an internal combustion engine
An evaporative venting system for use in an internal combustion engine and a method for venting fuel vapors are disclosed. The evaporative venting system includes a containment chamber at least in indirect communication with a fuel tank and a passageway defined within the containment chamber and having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The inlet opening is at least indirectly in communication with the fuel tank and the outlet opening is at least indirectly in communication with an evaporative chamber such that the passageway provides a vent path between the fuel tank and the evaporative chamber such that the vent path allows for both the venting of fuel vapors from the fuel tank and the intake of air into the fuel tank during all angles of positioning of the fuel tank. |
| US08281768B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling fuel rail pressure using fuel pressure sensor error
A control system and method for controlling a fuel system of an engine includes a steady state determination module determining the engine is operating at a steady state and a memory storing a first fuel correction. A fuel pump control module commands a predetermined fuel rail pressure change. The memory stores a second fuel correction after the predetermined fuel rail pressure change. A sensor error correction module determines a fuel rail pressure sensor error based on the first fuel correction and the second fuel correction and determines a fuel rail pressure in response to the sensor error. |
| US08281766B2 |
Mount structure of fuel injection valve and fuel injection system
A combustion chamber side end portion of a fuel injection valve is placed at a location that overlaps with an imaginary plane, which is perpendicular to a center axis of a cylinder and extends along a portion of a wall surface of an intake port where an intake valve protrudes, or is projected out from the imaginary plane toward a combustion chamber. Alternatively, a center of a fuel injecting side end port of the fuel injection valve, which injects fuel into intake air that flows in a branch port branched from the intake port, may be placed on the center axis side of the intake valve in a radial direction of the cylinder. Further alternatively, an upstream side fuel injection valve may inject fuel into intake air that flows in the intake port, and a downstream side fuel injection valve may inject fuel into intake air that flows in the branch port branched from the intake port. Alternatively, an injection quantity of fuel may be controlled for each of fuel injection valves, which injects fuel into intake air that flows in the corresponding branch port branched from the intake port. |
| US08281765B2 |
Spark timing adjustment based on vehicle acceleration
Systems, methods and a processor are provided for adjusting the spark timing of an internal combustion engine. The systems, methods and processor include adjusting the spark timing of an internal combustion engine configured to power a vehicle toward peak torque timing based on an output of a longitudinal acceleration sensor configured to sense a longitudinal acceleration of the vehicle. |
| US08281761B2 |
Internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine has a plurality of cylinders and an air intake system. The air intake system is formed from at least one distributor pipe, a plurality of intake pipes, and at least one plenum. The plenum is located between the distributor pipe and the intake pipes. Here, the combustion air is fed to the air intake system via an air guiding duct which opens out into the distributor pipe. The charge pressure of the combustion air is reduced between the outlet out of the compressor and the inlet into the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine. A distributor pipe length is dimensioned as a function of an equivalent distributor pipe diameter such that it is possible for a reduction in the charge pressure to be obtained within the air intake system by way of an expansion, with the expansion taking place partially in the plenum in the respective intake pipe and/or within the distributor pipe. |
| US08281751B2 |
Hot water apparatus
A hot water apparatus comprises a main body thereof connected to each of water distribution devices 31, 32, and 33 via plumbing 2 and a remote controller 20 for remotely controlling the main body of the hot water apparatus 10. The main body of the hot water apparatus 10 comprises a control device 13 capable of controlling temperature of outflowing hot water which is a temperature of the hot water outflowing from the main body of the hot water apparatus 10 to the plumbing 2. The remote controller 20 comprises a setting element of the temperature of the outflowing hot water 21 for setting the requested value of the temperature of the outflowing hot water, and the correction-data setting element 21U and 24 for setting correction data which defines the deviation value of the temperature of the outflowing hot water with respect to the required value. The control device 13 comprises means for performing the processing for correcting the temperature of the outflowing hot water which controls the temperature of the outflowing hot water to the target temperature which is obtained by changing the requested value by the deviation value defined by the set correction data. Therefore, the hot water having the temperature desired by the user can be outflown from the water distribution device and the user-friendly hot water apparatus can be provided. |
| US08281750B2 |
Boiler furnace to avoid thermal NOx
A boiler furnace avoids NOx and increases thermal efficiency with a small boiler. The boiler furnace has an outer water wall and an inner water wall with flared top and bottom portions. |
| US08281749B2 |
Pet accessory pendant
A pet accessory pendant is provided. The pet accessory pendant houses components for a pet accessory, such as a bark control device, a containment fence receiver, a remote trainer, a pet locator, and the like. The pet accessory pendant is mountable to animal collars of various sizes, lengths, widths, and thicknesses. Specifically, the pet accessory pendant is attachable to an animal collar such that the pet accessory pendant comfortably hangs in a pendant fashion and minimizes pressure points on the animal. Additionally, the pet accessory pendant is readily attachable to and detachable from the collar without removing the animal collar from the animal, thereby reducing the need to adjust the fitment of the pet accessory pendant for each use. Thus, the pet accessory pendant allows a single animal collar to be easily converted between a general-purpose animal collar and an animal collar with attached pet accessory. Furthermore, the ease of attachment and detachment allows for quickly changing pet accessories, leashing the animal without removing the animal collar to detach the pet accessory, replacing the battery, or modifying the pet accessory controls. |
| US08281745B2 |
System and method for managing animals on a dairy farm
A management system for managing animals on a dairy farm includes a receiving element (12) provided for receiving, for each of the animals, a value of a protein content and a value of a fat content of milk from the animal as milked on the dairy farm; a calculating element (19) provided for calculating, for each of the animals, the ratio of the values of the protein and fat contents of milk from the animal; a comparison element (20) provided for fetching, for each of the animals, from a database (18) a reference protein/fat ratio, and for comparing the calculated protein/fat ratio with the reference protein/fat ratio; and a notifying element (21-23), preferably a display unit (21) or a loudspeaker (22), provided for notifying, for each of the animals, a dairy farmer (24) of the dairy farm depending on the outcome of the comparison. |
| US08281740B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus, and magnetic recording medium manufacturing method
The present invention provides a substrate processing apparatus capable of suppressing mutual contamination and/or damage of the insides of ion beam generators arranged opposite each other via a substrate, and a magnetic recording medium manufacturing method. A substrate processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a first ion beam generator that applies an ion beam to one surface to be processed of a substrate W, and a second ion beam generator that applies an ion beam to another surface to be processed, which are arranged opposite each other via the substrate W, and an area of a first grid in the first ion beam generator, and an area of a second grid in the second ion beam generator, each area corresponding to an opening of the substrate W, are occluded. |
| US08281736B2 |
Adhesive applicator and bookbinder in bookbinding apparatus, and image-forming system associated therewith
Bookbinding-unit adhesive application device that does not interrupt the unit to replenish adhesive when consecutively applying adhesive to sheet bundles, and can shorten the time the system is interrupted. An adhesive storage container (10) that stores adhesive; an applicator roller (30) rotatably disposed in the adhesive storage container (10); an adhesive supplier (55) that refills hot-melt adhesive to the adhesive storage container (10); heater (20) that melts the adhesive in the adhesive storage container (10); and refill volume controller (62) that controls the amount of refill adhesive of the adhesive supplier (55) are provided. The refill volume controller (61) is configured to set the adhesive refill volume based on information from adhesive detector (22a) disposed in the adhesive storage container (10); and remaining sheets determiner (62) that determines the number of sheets to coat for the sheet bundles to be coated with adhesive. |
| US08281727B2 |
Wind-propelled vehicle including wing-sail
A wind-propelled vehicle, includes: a vertical mast assembly having a lower end rotatably mounted about a vertical axis on the vehicle; and a wing sail carried by the vertical mast assembly for propelling the vehicle, including a fore sail panel defining the leading edge of the wing-sail, and a pair of aft sail panels attached to a pair of booms defining the sides and trailing edge of the wing-sail. The vertical mast assembly includes a pair of vertically-extending posts connected together at their upper ends, diverging apart at their lower ends, and connected together at the diverging lower ends to define an “A” configuration frame. The diverging lower ends of the pair of posts are rotatably mounted on the vehicle. |
| US08281726B2 |
Holding device for a tool for processing a textile or non-textile sheet material for a sewing machine
A holding device (3) for a tool, e.g., a textile marker (5), for the processing of a textile or non-textile sheet material (44) is attached to the presser foot bar (23) of a sewing machine (1). The tool is supported by a tool holder (15) so that it can move on a base part (19) of the holding device (3) and can be changed in its position or activation through movements of the needle bar (9) of the sewing machine (1). |
| US08281724B2 |
Volumetric metering system with sectional shut-off
A volumetric metering system for a seeding machine is provided with a plurality of movable inserts each insert defining a ledge over which the seed falls to the meter outlet. The inserts are selectively movable between an open position in which seed is allowed to flow over the ledge and a closed position in which the inserts close the product flow to the outlet. By locating the product shut-off after the meter but before product enters the distribution system, there will only be a short delay in stoppage of product flow once the shut-off is closed. |
| US08281721B2 |
Device for unloading and placing rails in a track parallel to another existing track
The invention relates to a device for unloading and placing rails in a track parallel to another existing track, which is assembled in the rear of the rail carrier train (Tc), which runs on the existing main track (Vd), coupled in a series of auxiliary wagons (V1, V2, V3), and formed by a series of metal structures (P1, . . . , P9) fixed in said auxiliary wagons added in the rear of the rail carrier train, which determine several fixed guiding points longitudinally distributed in a suitable manner along these auxiliary wagons, both in the transverse and in the vertical direction, in a smooth transition and according to the standards in relation to the radii and buckling of the rail, from its transport position on the rail carrier (Tc) to its definitive position on the bearing plate of the crossties previously positioned in an also definitive place on the subgrade of the parallel track (Vp). |
| US08281719B2 |
Integrated power source and safety mechanisms for submunitions self-destruct fuze and the like
A method for providing electrical energy to a self-destruct fuze for submunitions contained in a projectile is provided. The method including: using a firing acceleration of the projectile to deform at least one elastic element to store mechanical energy in the elastic element; converting the stored mechanical energy to electrical energy; and providing the electrical energy at least indirectly to the self destruct fuze for detonation of the self destruct fuze. Alternatively, the firing acceleration can lock the elastic element in the deformed position and an expulsion acceleration of the submunitions from the projectile can be used to unlock the elastic element and convert the stored mechanical energy to electrical energy. |
| US08281717B2 |
Printing cylinder cleaning system
A printing cylinder cleaning cylinder in one embodiment includes a base and a module reversibly attaching to the module. The module includes a housing, a module engagement-disengagement assembly, a reciprocating wiper and brush assembly, a spray discharge assembly and a discharge assembly. The reciprocating brush and wiper assemblies produce a advantageous multi-dimensional scrubbing action. The module engagement-disengagement assembly may displace the module in to an operational position. The spray assembly may deliver cleaning fluid toward the cylinder being cleaned. The discharge assembly may convey cleaning fluid away from the module after the cleaning fluid. A control system allows for automatic or semiautomatic operation is some embodiments. |
| US08281713B2 |
Round baler
A round baler is provided for producing bales. The baler has a bale-forming chamber, at least one roller that is driven and that defines a part of an extent of the bale-forming chamber and that is mounted on a moving holder. Continuous, flexible bale forming elements are driven and define another part of the extent of the bale-forming chamber. The bale forming elements contact a first rotating body and a second rotating body, of which the first rotating body is mounted on the holder. It is proposed that the second rotating body is coupled with the holder with respect to motion by a drive connection, so that both move together with the growing bale. |
| US08281709B2 |
Indoor range-top grill
An indoor range-top grill allows a user to substantially duplicate outdoor grilling indoors. In some embodiments, the indoor range-top grill sits on top of a gas or electric burner of a stove and uses heat from the burner to grill and cook food. Typically, the indoor range-top grill comprises a grill enclosure having an opening at a top and a hole at a bottom, a burner shield positioned inside the grill enclosure, an optional cone positioned above the burner shield, a grate positioned above the cone, and an optional separator configured to position the grill enclosure thereon. In some embodiments, the burner shield comprises a heat director integrally coupled to a grease ring. The grease ring typically guides food residue away from the hole, trapping the food residue between the grease ring and the grill enclosure. |
| US08281707B2 |
Piston for a hydraulic motor having radial pistons, and a method of manufacturing such a piston
A piston for a hydraulic motor including a body having a guiding and sealing surface, a base, and a top, which top is providing with a cradle-shaped recess. The base is provided with an additional cradle-shaped recess whose concave surface faces in the direction in which the concave surface of the recess in the top faces. |
| US08281705B2 |
Method for detecting the drive type of an actuator (II)
A method is disclosed for detecting the drive type of an actuator, e.g., a pneumatic actuator, having a positioner for operating a final control element in a process engineering plant. The actuator is connected to the positioner by a mounting set, the positioner comprising an electronic control unit, which uses a microcontroller to receive one or more input signals, and to output actuating signals to control the flow of gas to or from the chambers of a single-acting or double-acting pneumatic drive. The position feedback sensors are equipped with a rotational measuring system. During commissioning of the actuator, the relationship between the drive volumes and the position signal is found and compared with transfer characteristics of known drive types. Where there is a match between the transfer characteristic defined by the value pairs of the given actuator and one of the transfer characteristics of the known drive types, the identified drive type is assigned to the given actuator. |
| US08281702B2 |
Protection system
A net deployment system which, in one example, includes a manifold assembly including multiple weight ducts and a bladder port. A weight is disposed in each weight duct and each weight is tied to the net. A bladder is behind the net and is over the bladder port. At least one inflator charge is associated with the manifold for inflating the bladder and firing the weights out of the weight ducts to deploy the net in the path of an incoming threat. |
| US08281699B2 |
Firearm with enhanced recoil and control characteristics
The invention comprises an improved recoil control device comprising a bolt head and an inertia block or slider for use in a variety of firearms. In one embodiment, the bolt head and inertia block are articulated so that the displacement of the bolt head results in a force component outside the firing axis of the barrel of the firearm. The device can be incorporated into firearms of a variety of sizes and configurations to produce recoil reduction and/or weight reduction advantages. |
| US08281698B2 |
Rapid fire weapon with bidirectional interchangable barrel
An improved barrel and attachment system for rapid fire weapons having a quick release and replacement. Further the barrel is lighter than comparable barrels for the same purpose, and has a flash suppression system. |
| US08281696B2 |
Linear feed cutting apparatus and method
A method for automatically cutting a workpiece by moving a workpiece along its longitudinal axis, positioning a cutting blade by rotating the blade about a vertical axis, positioning the cutting blade by rotating about a bevel axis, and moving the blade into cutting contact with the workpiece, thereby cutting the workpiece at a compound angle. The method may also include positioning the blade along a transverse axis. Further steps may include moving the cutting blade along a transverse axis simultaneous to moving the workpiece along its longitudinal axis, thereby creating a scarf cut; sorting a finished workpiece; and marking the workpiece. |
| US08281695B2 |
Chip vacuum system
A vacuum system and apparatus extracts metal chips and cuttings away from the cutting area of a sawing machine. The system and apparatus is located on the previously cut surface end of the saw and includes rotatable bracketry to engage and disengage a vacuum nozzle from the end of a cut piece to extract metal chips and cuttings from the inside of hollow metal stock as the stock is being cut. Rotation of the bracketry is actuated by means of an electronic controller or other control circuitry. |
| US08281689B2 |
Tightening device
A tightening device is described. The tightening device can be utilized for facilitating the operation of rotation of items mutually coupled by means of closing and locking systems of rotating, screw, bayonet type, or the like. |
| US08281686B2 |
Eddy-current actuated balancer for rotating machinery
An eddy-current actuated balancer includes a barrel having a locating wall at one end thereof; two balancing wheels mounted around the barrel and carrying a respective counterweight at the border, a washer set between the balancing wheels, an elastic ring and a lock ring and a pulsed magnetic field generator mounted on each balancing wheel. The balancing wheels, the washer and the elastic ring are clamped between the locating wall of the barrel and the lock ring. Each pulsed magnetic field generator is controlled to generate a pulsed magnetic field acting upon the associating balancing wheel during its rotation for inducing an eddy current that causes the associating balancing wheel to make an angular displacement relative to the barrel for balance adjustment. |
| US08281685B2 |
Pedal module
A pedal is rotated in a forward rotational direction by a pedal force applied from a driver and is rotated in a reverse rotational direction by a restoring force exerted from a double coil spring arrangement. A friction member generates friction between the pedal and the friction member. The friction member includes a sliding part, a holding part and a resiliently deformable part. The sliding part slidably engages the pedal, and the holding part is held by a housing. The resiliently deformable part is resiliently deformable between the sliding part and the holding part to permit displacement of the sliding part relative to the holding part. |
| US08281679B2 |
Slide mechanism
A slide mechanism includes a main body, a slide body and an elastic member. The slide body is slidably connected to the main body. The elastic member is positioned between the main body and the slide body. The main body includes a base plate and two guide rails fixed on opposite sides of the base plate. The guide rails are elastic. A distance between the guide rails is less than a length of the elastic member in a normal state. Opposite ends of the elastic member are fixed to the guide rails, and a middle portion of the elastic member is fixed to the slide body, so that the elastic member remains bent between the guide rails. |
| US08281678B2 |
Ballscrew assembly with detection feature
A ballscrew assembly for an actuator is provided. In an embodiment, the ballscrew assembly includes a ball nut assembly including a view port; a ballscrew provided within at least a portion of the ball nut assembly; an inner rod provided within the ballscrew in the direction of the longitudinal axis, the inner rod including an enlarged end portion; and a compression mechanism, such that at least a portion of the compression mechanism is provided between the enlarged end portion and the ballscrew. In another embodiment the assembly is configured such that when the inner rod is in a failed state, the compression mechanism provides a force that moves the visual indicator toward the view port. In another embodiment, the assembly includes a proximity sensor in addition to, or in lieu, of a view port to detect a failure. |
| US08281675B2 |
Dissolution rate verification
Apparatus (50) is described for use with a drug on a drug patch (28), the drug patch including a drug side and a back side. An absorbent material (54) is configured to be disposed on a surface (56) and underneath the drug patch. A squeezing device (52) having a squeezing surface is configured to squeeze the drug patch together with the absorbent material. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08281672B2 |
Automatable aseptic sample withdrawal system
An aseptic sampling system includes substantially sealed sampling lines connecting one or more sample container to a vessel containing the fluid to be sampled. A flow control system includes valves and/or clamps placed strategically along the sampling lines and filtered vent lines are provided at strategic locations relative to a reversible fluid pump in communication with the sampling lines. The clamps are selectively actuated, the vent lines are selectively opened or closed, and the pump is operated in a forward or reverse direction to permit a volume of sample fluid to be drawn from the vessel and into a sample container and to permit fluid to be purged from the sampling lines either into the sample container or back into the vessel. Thus, sampling and purging can be accomplished without opening the system to potentially contaminating agents and without wasting or having to properly dispose the fluid. |
| US08281671B2 |
Load measuring device, manufacturing method for the device and control method using the device
A load measuring device for measuring a load acting on an elastically deformable member, has a distance sensor for measuring a length change in response to a deformation of the deformable member under a load. The sensor has a sensing element and a reference element arranged such that a portion of the elastically deformable member is interposed between the sensing element and the reference element. For paper manufacturing or finishing, two members between which the load is measured are cooperating rolls, at least one of which is provided with an elastic cover. One of the rolls includes the sensing element and the other roll includes the reference element. Alternatively, the two members are a roll and a cooperating belt, one having an elastic cover. Also, the sensing element and the reference element may be formed in one and the same member. |
| US08281669B2 |
Simplified orifice type differential pressure flow meter with improved accuracy
A flow meter device that improves a way to obtain an accurate differential pressure across an orifice body situated in line with the flow of gas and liquids. The orifice body is held in place by sealing components integrated into the orifice body. The differential pressure is sensed via openings incorporated into the body of the device, upstream and downstream of the orifice body. The device with its improved accuracy may be used for small and large applications measuring flow. The device is comprised of a meter body; an orifice puck with characteristics; a sealing method; a cover plate, and a way to secure the device into a fluid stream where the device may be used to easily and accurately measure fluid flow in a pipe. |
| US08281662B2 |
Method for determining porosity, pore size and zeta potential of porous bodies
Propagation of ultrasound through a porous body saturated with liquid generates electric response. This electro-acoustic effect is called “seismoelectric current”, whereas reverse version, when electric field is driving force, is “electroseismic current”. It is possible to measure seismoelectric current with existing electro-acoustic devices, which had been designed for characterizing liquid dispersions. Such versatility allows calibration of said devise using dispersion and then applying it for characterizing porous body. In general, magnitude of seismoelectric current depends on porosity, pore size, zeta potential of pore surfaces and elastic properties of matrix. It is possible to adjust conductivity of liquid for simplifying these dependences. For instance, liquid with high ionic strength causes double layers become thin comparing to the pore size, which eliminates dependence of said currents on pore size. We suggest using such case for characterizing porosity. Magnitude of the said currents is proportional to zeta potential. This parameter can be calculated when porosity is known. In contrary, saturation of porous body with low conducting liquid leads to complete overlap of double layers, which can be used for characterizing pore size. Phase of the said currents can be used for determining iso-electric point because it rotates 180 degrees when liquid composition varies through this point. |
| US08281649B1 |
Advanced hot section materials and coatings test rig
A test rig that reproduces high temperature and high pressure conditions found in a gas turbine engine for testing materials under these conditions. The test rig includes a combustor surrounded by an upper plenum chamber and an exhaust plenum that receives a hot gas stream from the combustor. A transparent channeling vessel guides the hot gas stream from the combustor over a test specimen on which a material to be tested is mounted. The hot gas stream exits the clear channeling vessel and into the exhaust plenum where the stream is cooled by diluting the stream with cooling air. A viewing portal is located in the exhaust plenum so that the material can be observed through the clear vessel. |
| US08281648B2 |
Material testing apparatus with non-contact sensor
A non-contact sensor is attached to the indenting module with its working range encompassing the tip of the indenter. The sensor directly measures penetration depth of the indenter during scratch, wear or instrumented hardness testing. During the test, the non-contact sensor records the height of the surface as the indenter penetrates the surface of the testing specimen. |
| US08281647B2 |
Device for measuring physical and/or chemical parameters of water circulating in a treatment circuit of a leisure pool
A device for measuring physical and/or chemical parameters of water circulating in a treatment circuit of a leisure pool comprises: a main body (12) through which a measurement channel (13) passes; a connector (14a, 14b) for connecting the measurement channel (13) to the treatment circuit (8); at least two measurement sensors (18a, 18b) fitted to the main body in order to be in contact with the inside of the measurement channel (13); and an acquisition unit (20) connected to the measurement sensors and comprising a self-contained electric power source (32) and wireless communication means (45) for communicating with a central unit (5). |
| US08281642B2 |
Environmental gas sensor and method of manufacturing the same
Provided are an environmental gas sensor and a method of manufacturing the same. The environmental gas sensor includes an insulating substrate, metal electrodes formed on the insulating substrate, and a sensing layer in which different kinds of nanofibers are arranged perpendicular to each other on the metal electrodes. Thus, the environmental gas sensor can simultaneously sense two kinds of gases. |
| US08281639B2 |
Method for adjusting the detector of a chromatograph
The present invention provides a detector for a chromatograph capable of obtaining the accurate retention time, even if there is a frequency deviation of the clock signal for determining the timing of data sampling, by conforming the progress of the detector internal time accompanied with the repetition of the sampling to that of real time. In the detector, consecutive data sampling intervals are defined to be a time adjustment period, and in one time adjustment period, each of the sampling intervals whose number is given as the interpolation value M is elongated by a predetermined number of clock counts compared to each of the other sampling intervals. If the clock signal has a positive frequency deviation, the apparatus internal time determined by the clock signal progresses faster than real time. However, providing the interpolation value M corresponding to the amount of the frequency deviation elongates the time adjustment period on the basis of the apparatus internal time, to be conformed to the time adjustment period on the basis of real time which is determined by the sampling period. |
| US08281635B2 |
Production method of internally ribbed steel tube and drawing plug for use therein
There is provided a production method capable of forming spiral ribs stably by reducing troubles at the time of cold drawing for forming the spiral ribs on an internally ribbed steel tube. When the internally ribbed steel tube on which a plurality of stripes of spiral ribs are formed in the tube axis direction is manufactured by inserting a plug on which a plurality of stripes of spiral grooves are formed on the outer peripheral surface thereof into the tube to be worked subjected to chemical treatment and then performing cold drawing, drawing is performed with the plug preheated to 50 to 200° C., thus forming the spiral ribs on the internal surface of a blank tube. The chemical treatment preferably includes a pickling step of removing oxided scale and rust on the tube surface, a step of forming a zinc phosphate coat on the neutralized tube surface, and a step of forming a lubricating layer on the zinc phosphate coat. The internally ribbed steel tube thus obtained is well applicable to increased capacity and higher temperature/higher pressure of a boiler because the steel tube is provided with formability and quality excellent as a boiler steel tube. |
| US08281634B2 |
Continuous extrusion apparatus and method for the production of cable having a core sheathed with aluminum based sheath with a continuous extrusion apparatus
Apparatus for continuous extrusion of an aluminum sheathing on to a core cable includes a rotatable wheel formed with two identical circumferential grooves outwardly bounded by arcuate tooling discharging through radial exit apertures to an extrusion chamber positioned around a portal mandrel. A powered pay-off reel is arranged continuously to supply core cable through the mandrel while aluminum sheathing is extruded as a loose fit from extrusion chamber around the core cable. The extruded cable is discharged through cooling device to roller corrugator including a rotating frame mounted on carriage freely moveable axially of the cable and provided with a rotational drive having a roller arranged to form a continuous helical indentation in the sheathing. Pneumatic actuating cylinders positioned on the carriage provide a constant, low magnitude, tension on the portion of the sheath intermediate the extrusion chamber and roller corrugator and limit forces tending to distort the uncooled sheath. |
| US08281628B2 |
Profile key with local recess
A profiled key for use in an associated cylinder lock provided with a rotatable key plug having a longitudinal keyway. The key has a substantially flat key blade with a longitudinally extending profile groove at a side surface thereof and at least one local recess adjacent to the profile groove. The local recess constitutes a locally expanded portion of the profile groove, and the locally expanded portion of the profile groove has a cross-section with two opposite, non-symmetrical side walls. The local recess will accommodate a blocking element in the lock, and permit full insertion of the key blade into the keyway. |
| US08281626B2 |
Cable wrap security device
A security device includes a locking member, a ratchet mechanism, and a plurality of cables. The cables are wrapped around an object. An attachment clip is releasably snap-fitted into the body of the security device. The ratchet mechanism includes a spool and a locking pawl or lever. A key is used to unlock the clip from the housing. An alarm system is contained in the housing and actuates an audible alarm upon certain unauthorized actions occurring. Insertion of the clip into the housing automatically actuates the ratchet mechanism preventing movement of the cable in the unwind direction and activates the alarm system. |
| US08281621B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining a characteristic of a consumable
The embodiments of the invention relate to a method and apparatus for determining at least one characteristic of a physical resource for use in a physical resource consuming apparatus. |
| US08281616B2 |
Bracelet with articulated links
A bracelet with links articulated to each other like a hinge, includes first links provided with a male hinge part pierced by a first through hole, second links provided with a female hinge part pierced by second and third through hole, the first, second and third holes forming an alignment when a male hinge part is engaged in a female hinge part. The bracelet further includes pins occupying the hole alignments, and axial locking elements for the pins formed of a first radially elastic tube and a second tube, axially locked in the first through holes, the pins being driven inside the first slit tubes. The first and second tubes include an annular end via which the tubes are secured to each other so as to preserve the radial elasticity of the first tube. |
| US08281615B2 |
Multichannel evaporator with flow mixing manifold
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and heat exchangers are provided which include manifold configurations designed to promote mixing of vapor phase and liquid phase refrigerant. The manifolds contain flow mixers such as a helical tape, sectioned volumes, and partitions containing apertures. The flow mixers direct the flow of refrigerant within the manifold to promote a more homogenous distribution of fluid within the multichannel tubes. |
| US08281613B2 |
Ice maker and refrigerator having the same
A refrigerator includes a refrigerator main body having a storage chamber, a door coupled to the refrigerator main body to be opened or closed, a cool air supplying device which generates cool air, an ice maker including an ice making tray having ice making cells to produce ice and a cool air guide member installed in the door, coupled to the ice making tray and having a cool air line that guides the cool air supplied from the cool air supplying device to flow around the ice making tray. The cool air line disposed on the cool air guide member to supply the ice making tray guides the cool air supplied from the cool air supplying device to move along the surrounding of the ice making tray, thereby uniformly cooling down the ice making tray. |
| US08281604B2 |
Divergent turbine nozzle
A turbine nozzle includes a row of vanes extending radially in span between inner and outer bands. The vanes include opposite pressure and suction sidewalls and opposite leading and trailing edges. Each vane includes an inner pattern of inner cooling holes and an outer pattern of outer cooling holes distributed along the leading edge. The inner and outer holes diverge toward the corresponding inner and outer bands to preferentially discharge cooling air. |
| US08281599B2 |
Device for damping the lateral forces due to jet separation acting on a rocket engine nozzle
The invention relates to a device for damping the lateral forces due to jet separation that act on a rocket engine nozzle during a stage of starting or stopping the engine, the engine including at least two identical drive assemblies mounted on the nozzle to take up the lateral forces acting thereon, each drive assembly comprising a first member forming a strut, a second member forming an anchor structure, and an actuator. Each strut comprises means enabling it to act as a rigid strut so long as the lateral forces acting on the corresponding actuator remain below a determined force threshold, and as an element for peak limiting force and for dissipating residual kinetic energy once the forces acting on the actuator exceed the determined force threshold. |
| US08281598B2 |
Gas-turbine combustion chamber with ceramic flame tube
A gas turbine combustion chamber includes an essentially cylindrical flame tube 2, which is made of a ceramic material and circumferentially divided into several circumferential elements 10, 11, 12. |
| US08281594B2 |
Fuel injector for use in a gas turbine engine
A fuel injector in a combustor apparatus of a gas turbine engine. An outer wall of the injector defines an interior volume in which an intermediate wall is disposed. A first gap is formed between the outer wall and the intermediate wall. The intermediate wall defines an internal volume in which an inner wall is disposed. A second gap is formed between the intermediate wall and the inner wall. The second gap receives cooling fluid that cools the injector. The cooling fluid provides convective cooling to the intermediate wall as it flows within the second gap. The cooling fluid also flows through apertures in the intermediate wall into the first gap where it provides impingement cooling to the outer wall and provides convective cooling to the outer wall. The inner wall defines a passageway that delivers fuel into a liner downstream from a main combustion zone. |
| US08281593B2 |
Heat engine and heat to electricity systems and methods with working fluid fill system
A waste heat recovery system and a method for operating a thermodynamic cycle using a working fluid in a working fluid circuit which has a high pressure side and a low pressure side. The system comprises a waste heat exchanger, a waste heat source, an expander, a recuperator, a cooler, a pump, and a mass management system connected to the working fluid circuit. The mass management system comprises a working fluid vessel connected to the low pressure side of the working fluid circuit and configured to passively control an amount of working fluid mass in the working fluid circuit. |
| US08281592B2 |
Direct contact heat exchanger and methods for making and using same
A direct heat exchange method and apparatus for recovering heat from a liquid heat source is disclosed, where the method includes contacting a liquid heat source stream with a multi-component hydrocarbon fluid, where the hydrocarbon fluid compositions has a linear or substantially linear temperature versus enthalpy relationship over the temperature range of the direct heat exchange apparatus. |
| US08281591B2 |
Self contained in-ground geothermal generator
A self contained geothermal generator includes a boiler, a turbine compartment, an electricity generator, a condenser and an electric cable. The condenser includes a distributor chamber, a peripheral chamber and plurality of tubes disposed between the chambers. The peripheral chamber of the condenser surrounds and cools turbine, elective generator and selector of the condenser departments. The condenser cools and converts exhausted steam back in liquid state and returns it back into boiler for reheating. In a method of using the geothermal generator, water contained within the boiler is converted to high-pressure, super heated steam due to heat from hot rocks contained within a pre-drilled well below the Earth's surface. The steam is used to produce electric energy which is transported up to the ground surface by the electric cable. A plurality of geothermal generators may be used in a “binary” power plant through system of several heat exchangers. |
| US08281589B2 |
Device and method for operating an internal combustion engine, computer program, computer program product
For operating an internal combustion engine having a throttle situated in an exhaust line or exhaust return line, in which a heat engine is driven by a quantity of heat produced by the internal combustion engine, in a first non-heating operating mode of the internal combustion engine, a first setpoint value is preset, a first operating parameter that characterizes a temperature of the internal combustion engine is detected, a first triggering value is determined for the triggering of the at least one throttle as a function of the first setpoint value and the first operating parameter, the at least one throttle is triggered in accordance with the first triggering value, and the at least one heat engine is driven by the resulting quantity of heat. |
| US08281585B2 |
Controlling heat transfer in active material actuators using external elements
An actuator includes a thermally activated active material member, and an external element configured to selectively engage the member and presenting a predetermined rate of thermal conductivity configured to transfer heat energy to and/or from the member, so as to reduce the actuation period or rate of cooling after actuation, when engaged. |
| US08281577B2 |
Exhaust gas purification system and exhaust gas purification method
An exhaust gas purification system, which upgrades exhaust gas purification while curtailing an increase in an operating cost, is disclosed. The exhaust gas purification system comprises an SCR catalyst for reducing and removing nitrogen oxides in an exhaust gas from an engine (10) by bringing the nitrogen oxides into contact with a reducing agent, oxidation catalysts (11, 17) for oxidizing gas components in the exhaust gas, a water electrolysis device (24) for producing oxygen by electrolyzing water, and an oxygen supply pipe (29) for supplying the oxygen produced by the water electrolysis device (24) to the exhaust gas. |
| US08281576B2 |
Diesel particulate filter control
Methods and systems are provided for managing particulate emissions in an engine including a particulate filter and a CO2 sensor downstream of the filter. A CO2 sensor may be used to infer the presence of particulate matter in the exhaust, downstream of the filter. By sensing particulate matter in the post-filter exhaust, filter degradation may be identified. |
| US08281570B2 |
Reducing agent injector having purge heater
A method of introducing a reducing agent into an exhaust stream may include injecting the reducing agent into the exhaust gas stream using a reducing agent injector. The method may further include selectively heating a nozzle of the reducing agent injector to reduce residue on the nozzle. |
| US08281569B2 |
Exhaust gas purification device for internal combustion engine and method of controlling the exhaust gas purification device
In an exhaust gas purification device for an internal combustion engine, unburned fuel components are not supplied to a catalyst to make the atmosphere around the catalyst lean during a first lean period, unburned fuel components are supplied to the catalyst to make the atmosphere around the catalyst rich during a rich period, and the supply of unburned fuel components to the catalyst is again stopped during a second lean period. The first lean period, the rich period, and the second lean period form a cycle. If the actual amount of unburned fuel components added to the catalyst is below a required addition amount when a cycle ends, the duration of the first lean period in a subsequent cycle is reduced. |
| US08281566B2 |
Thermally-integrated fluid storage and pressurization system
A propulsion system may be operated by determining pressure in a cryogenic liquid tank storing a fluid and cooling the cryogenic liquid tank in response to determining that the pressure is greater than a predetermined value. The cryogenic liquid tank may be pressurized by admitting a gaseous form of the fluid into the cryogenic liquid tank in response to determining that the pressure in the cryogenic liquid tank is less than a predetermined value. |
| US08281565B2 |
Reheat gas turbine
A gas turbine system includes a compressor, an expander, a combustor disposed between the compressor and the expander, a boiler disposed between the compressor and the expander, a conduit including chargeable air and in thermal communication with the boiler and an external free heat source coupled to the boiler. |
| US08281563B2 |
Gas-turbine bearing oil system with improved oil return arrangement
A gas-turbine bearing oil system with an oil supply arrangement includes at least one oil pump 5 supplying oil from an oil tank 1 to the bearing chambers 2, 3, 4 and at least one scavenge pump unit 6 returning oil from the bearing chambers 2, 3, 4 to the oil tank 1 At least one additional electric scavenge pump 7 is used to return oil from at least one bearing chamber 2, 3, 4 to the oil tank 1. |
| US08281558B2 |
Method for the production of a vacuum insulation element wrapped in a film, filled with powder
The invention relates to a method for producing an especially panel-shaped vacuum insulation element which is wrapped in a film and is filled with a powder. According to the method, the unmolded, loose powder is filled, particularly poured, into the opening of a bag which is formed from a high-barrier film and is open on one side. A filter material that is permeable to air and impermeable to powder dust is fixed to the internal face of the film bag in the area of the opening of the filled film bag such that the interior of the bag is closed in a dust-tight manner while air can still be discharged. The interior of the dust-tightly closed film bag is then evacuated and the evacuated film bag is air-tightly closed in a vacuum. |
| US08281557B2 |
Method of packaging and dispensing nasal devices
Described herein are packaging systems for nasal devices, and methods of packaging and/or dispensing nasal devices. A packaging system may include one or a plurality of nasal devices removably secured to a support backing, and a dispenser. In some variations an applicator may also be included. Methods of using and methods of assembling packaging systems and dispensers are also described. |
| US08281556B2 |
Methods of building modular clipping packaging apparatus
Packaging apparatus modules include a frame with a base adapted to reside on a support floor, the frame having opposing right and left hand frame sides and at least one lateral beam that extends therebetween, the right and left hand frame sides comprising respective upwardly extending frame portions which are configured to reside on opposing sides of a longitudinal product travel path having an axially extending centerline; and a clipper mechanism configured to selectively attach to either one of the right and left hand frame sides in a manner that positions the clipper mechanism at a substantially common operative full-clip location in the product travel path when mounted to either the right or left hand frame sides to thereby allow build options with selectable mounting orientations. |
| US08281550B1 |
Impact and fire resistant windows
The present invention relates to optically clear fire resistant and impact resistant windows having at least one air gap and at least one fire resistant layer. Optionally there is also an anti-spall layer. |
| US08281547B2 |
Modular tower apparatus and method of manufacture
In one aspect, a method of making a selected structure using composite materials is disclosed, which method in form includes providing a plurality of members each comprising a composite material, wherein each member is configured to be coupled to at least one other member in the plurality of members along a longitudinal side; coupling onsite the plurality of members along their longitudinal sides to form a base enclosed structure; and reinforcing onsite the base enclosed structure to form the selected structure. |
| US08281546B2 |
Slip formed concrete wind turbine tower
A wind turbine is formed of a concrete tower which is erected by slip forming. A primary lifting device is erected onto the tower by being lifted together with the slip form and being subsequently transferred onto the tower from the slip form after the tower has been formed. The nacelle, generator, and rotor of the turbine are then lifted onto the tower using the primary lifting device. A secondary lifting device supported on the tower is used to lower the primary lifting device to the ground after the nacelle, generator and rotor are assembled. The height of the tower is therefore not limited by the availability of suitable cranes so that a greater height of tower can be erected to take advantage of winds at greater elevation. |
| US08281542B2 |
Mechanisms for locking and removing flush mounted inserts
A wall-mounted component can be flush-mounted into a wallboard by first installing a panel with a receiver bracket flush into a wallboard. Once the panel is installed, the component can be inserted into the receiver bracket at which point a locking mechanism automatically or manually engages to lock the component into the wall. The locking mechanism is concealed from view so that a casual observer does not see how the component is affixed to the wall, yet is accessible from the wall's exterior for routine service and maintenance, as well as reinstallation of updated components. |
| US08281540B2 |
Unitary steel joist
A unitary steel joist includes a generally vertical web, a generally horizontal bottom flange, a generally horizontal top flange, a bottom wing, a bottom web portion, a top wing and a top web portion. The generally horizontal bottom flange extends outwardly on each side of the web. The bottom flange is made of two pieces of steel. The generally horizontal top flange extends outwardly on each side of the web. The top flange is made of two pieces of steel. The bottom wing extends outwardly from the web. The bottom web portion extends between the bottom flange and bottom wing. The top wing extends outwardly from the web. The top web portion extends between the top flange and the top wing. The unitary steel joist is made from a unitary piece of steel. |
| US08281537B2 |
Masonry support system and method
The invention relates to a masonry support system and method, suitable for bearing the load of a course of brick-work or defined brickwork panels, comprising a horizontal support section (2) in the X-plane for supporting said load; a vertical support section (3) in the Y-plane for affixing to a support structure; characterized in that there is provided integrated Z-axis adjustment means (61) for adjusting said relieving angle system forward or backwards relative to the support structure. The advantage of the present invention is that the system provides integrated Z-axis adjustment. This feature provides a unique level of tolerance compensation for unforeseen site variances. The invention provides a uniquely adjustable and easy to install angle brick masonry support system. |
| US08281533B2 |
Attachment element for studded plastic sheets
The invention relates to an attachment element for studded plastic sheets comprising a base body with at least one stud projecting from a front of the base body. To provide an attachment means that results both in a tear-resistant attachment of the studded plastic sheet to the building wall and in extensive surface contact at a top edge of the studded plastic sheet, it is provided that a head portion is arranged on the base body, which fully or at least partially projects from the front of the base body with a resiliently deformable area. |
| US08281532B2 |
Edge cladding
A three-dimensional edge cladding for an architectural opening that includes a forward facing portion having a substantially constant first profile along a longitudinal axis. The forward facing portion includes a plurality of spaced apart nailing flanges, stepped surface topography projecting generally forward and away from the flanges. A longitudinally extending channel receives a side facing portion having a substantially constant second profile that include a portion that is generally orthogonal to the nailing flanges. A joint cover portion for covering the section where two or more edge cladding members meet. |
| US08281531B2 |
Ground anchor assembly
A ground anchor assembly includes at least two threaded studs, an anchor plate having at least two openings sized and shaped to receive the at least two threaded studs. The assembly further includes a first fastener for each of the at least two threaded studs attached to the respective stud and bearing against a first side of the anchor plate, and a break-away fastener for each of the at least two threaded studs and attached to the respective stud on an opposite side of the anchor plate. Each break-away fastener cooperates with the corresponding first fastener to retain the corresponding stud in position relative to the anchor plate and the other of the at least two studs. |
| US08281529B2 |
Interlocking building structure
A building structure having a plurality of frame assemblies joined together to form an internal frame structure for a building. Each of the frame assemblies includes a truss, a pair of vertical wall members and a floor joist. The truss is attached to respective top ends the vertical wall members at each end of the truss with interlocking joints in which the truss and vertical wall members are in substantially the same plane. Each vertical wall member is attached to the floor joist with interlocking joints. Each interlocking joint has a puzzle-piece configuration. Cross-members interconnect the frame assemblies in a spaced-apart manner. A floor panel is attached to the floor joists and exterior wall panels are attached to an exterior of the internal frame structure. |
| US08281528B2 |
Apparatus for securing wall members for log homes
An apparatus for securing a plurality of wall members together to define a wall. The apparatus includes a base portion having a stud extending upwardly therefrom, the base portion configured to engage a surface of a first wall member. The apparatus also includes a first securing member sized and shaped to engage with a surface of a second wall member stacked above the first wall member. The apparatus also includes a first coupling member configured to extend through a bore in the first and second wall members. The first coupling member has an elongate rod member having an upper end and a lower end, and a coupler on the lower end of the rod member, the coupler being sized and shaped to receive the stud member therein. The upper end of the rod member is configured to be coupled to the first securing member for biasing the first and second wall members together to inhibit the formation of undesired spaces therebetween. |
| US08281525B2 |
Modular spiral staircase assembly
A modular spiral staircase assembly that involves a handrail formed of one or more sections and a series of slide members each configured to form a link between both a baluster and the handrail of the staircase. The use of such slide members enables initial ease with respect to positioning of the balusters along the extent of the handrail and subsequent secure locking of such balusters in position with respect to the handrail for alignment purposes with corresponding treads of the staircase. Additionally, using such slide members along the extent of the handrail provides the installer ready-made tools for progressively shaping the extent of the handrail so as to align it with the curvature of the staircase. |
| US08281524B2 |
Stackable flat-roof/ground framework for solar panels
A stackable flat-roof/ground framework (1) for solar panels, comprising a sloping desk-like supporting region (2, 5, 6) for the solar panel, at least said supporting region (2, 5, 6) being implemented as a wire grate, wherein the supporting region of the flat-roof/ground framework has downwardly angled elements on two opposite edges, one element, used as rear wall (3), being designed to be longer and one element, used a front wall (4), being designed to be shorter, and having weightable panel-like base regions (2, 5, 6), said base regions (2, 5, 6) being angled from the rear wall (3) and/or the front wall (4). |
| US08281521B1 |
Pre-notched drip edge assembly and method
A pre-notched drip edge assembly and related method includes a plurality of drip edge sections interconnected end-to-end to form a continuous water barrier along a roof edge. Each drip edge section has a formed one-piece construction with a top flange and a bottom flange having an inverted L-shape with upper and lower legs. The forward edges of the top flange and the upper leg are integrally interconnected along a folded-over nose having a wedge-shape. A pair of notches are formed in the opposite ends of each drip edge section which extend through the upper edge of the lower leg and the forward edges of the upper leg and the top flange to define flat end tab areas that are inserted into the noses of the next adjacent drip edge sections to horizontally and vertically locate the same along the building roof. |
| US08281520B2 |
Hip, ridge or rake shingle
A hip, ridge or rake shingle comprised of a plurality of panels sandwiched on each panel portion side of a layer of shingle material, such that each panel portion can be folded along a fold line, and wherein tabs are provided for each panel portion, adapted to be bent backwardly upon themselves, sandwiching thickening panels therebetween. The shingles can be laid up on a hip, ridge or rake of a roof, to yield desirable thickened features. |
| US08281510B2 |
Plastic sheet, and decorative illumination signboard
An object of the present invention is to provide a decorative illumination signboard capable of effectively downwardly emitting light while suppressing an upward emission of light with a simple configuration and a plastic sheet used in the decorative illumination signboard.The object can be accomplished by a plastic sheet having optical transparency which includes an exit surface and an incident surface on which a plurality of prism lines having a flat and smooth surface are arranged to be aligned. A shape of the prism in a cross-section perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the prism line is formed by a side A on a lower side at an angle of α degrees to a normal line of the exit surface and a side B on an upper side at an angle of β degrees to the normal line of the exit surface and α<β, and 40 degrees≦β≦80 degrees. An integral value of a downwardly emitted light flux is 55% or more of the total integral value of an upwardly emitted light flux and the downwardly emitting light flux when predetermined diffusion light enters one surface of the plastic sheet in a direction perpendicular to the plastic sheet. |
| US08281509B2 |
Nautical navigation aid with a photoluminescent element and a light wave re-directing means for improved photoluminescence
A nautical navigation aid comprising a photoluminescent element and a light wave re-directing means for improved photoluminescent qualities used to enhance the safety of nautical travelers on waterways in conditions where visibility is limited. The navigation aid sign has a first rigid sheet member having an upper surface, a lower surface and a peripheral edge, a second rigid sheet member having an upper surface and a lower surface extending outward from the peripheral edge of the first rigid sheet member at a predetermined angle to a predetermined length, thereby defining an angled collar of the first rigid sheet member sized and configured to redirect light waves emanating from a light source, and a luminescent layer. It is envisioned that an embodiment of the present invention might also include a means for retrofitting existing nautical navigation aids with a photoluminescent element and a light wave re-directing means for improved photoluminescent qualities. |
| US08281508B1 |
Reversible license plate holder
A reversible license plate holder attachable to a prepared rear panel of a vehicle. A rectangular perimeter frame has an obverse and a reverse side and an open central area, the frame having an L-shaped cross-section defining a flange sized to be aligned with and receive a license plate positionable thereagainst. The frame also has spaced mounting holes which are alignable with mounting holes in the license plate and with threaded holes in the rear panel for attaching the holder against the rear panel. When the holder is attached to the rear panel so that the reverse side faces outwardly in a temporary use mode by a car dealer, an upper retaining tab forming a first U-shaped channel with the frame trappingly receives an upper edge of the license plate and a lower retaining tab forming a second U-shaped channel trappingly receives a lower edge of the license plate when a lower edge of the flange is resiliently flexed downwardly, then released. In this mode of use, only the flange and the upper and lower retaining tabs hold the license plate in place. In the permanent use mode, the obverse side is outwardly facing and the holder and license plate are attached to the rear panel or bumper together conventionally. |
| US08281506B2 |
Tool coupler assembly
A tool coupler assembly for a machine. The tool coupler assembly may have a coupler frame, a first latch, a second latch, and a hydraulic actuator connected to move the second latch relative to the first latch and the coupler frame. The hydraulic actuator may have a first chamber, a second chamber, and a pressure valve with a check element movable to allow a flow of fluid into the first chamber based on a pressure of fluid in the first chamber, and a pressure regulating element movable to allow a flow of fluid out of the first chamber based on a pressure of fluid in the second chamber. The tool coupler assembly may additionally have a first pilot passage configured to communicate fluid from the second chamber with the pressure-regulating element, and a second pilot passage configured to communicate fluid from the first chamber with the pressure-regulating element. |
| US08281504B2 |
Inner sole for a footwear
An inner sole for an insole has a body made of flexible material and adapted to be laid on an insole of a shoe. Liquid containing spaces are formed in the body of the inner sole for sealingly and flowably containing liquid. Dam portions divide the liquid containing spaces into a toe region, a heel region and a middle region between the two. Orifices communicate the liquid between mutually adjacent regions. The orifice formed by the dam portions that divides the liquid containing spaces into the heel region and the middle region opens toward one side edge portion to cause an eddy of liquid, flowing from the heel region into the middle region, that substantially fills the whole middle region. |
| US08281503B2 |
Multi-position heel
A multi-position heel assembly is structured and arranged to be integrally formed with or mechanically connected to a shoe. The assembly includes: a chassis; a heel connected to the chassis and rotatable relative to the chassis about an axis; and a locking mechanism including an actuator that is axially translatable along the axis. The locking mechanism selectively allows rotation of the heel relative to the chassis. |
| US08281499B2 |
Mobile surface drying apparatus
A mobile surface drying apparatus includes a vacuum and blower assembly. The vacuum and blower assembly includes a vacuum head and a blower head. The vacuum head suctions moisture through an inlet of the vacuum and blower assembly, and the blower head communicates airflow through an outlet of the vacuum and blower assembly. |
| US08281492B1 |
Tube cutter
A tube cutter having first and second arms pivotally connected. Each arm includes a handle segment and a head portion. The head portion of one arm includes a v-block and the head portion of the other arm has a cutting portion. At least each handle portion has a black oxide coating or chrome plating. A second tube cutter may include a pair of bumpers, one on each handle and each of the bumpers may include a gusset connecting the bumper to the terminal end of the handle. |
| US08281491B2 |
Shaving razor and shaving cartridges
A shaving blade unit includes a housing having a front edge, a rear edge and side edges extending between the front and rear edges. The housing has an aperture located between the front and rear edges. One or more shaving blades are positioned between the front edge and the rear edge and the one or more blades have cutting edges arranged to define a first cutting region. A clip is arranged to retain the one or more shaving blades on the housing. The clip has a leg received by the aperture, the leg having a bent portion defining a curvature to secure the clip to the housing. |
| US08281490B2 |
Spherical bearing and process for manufacturing the same
Provided are a spherical bearing in which a ball portion (10) of an inside member (1) can be sealed inside an outside member (2) without employment of casting, and the outside member (2) and the inside member (1) are coupled to each other with high strength, and which can be downsized, and a manufacturing method for the same. The spherical bearing includes: an inside member (1) having a metal ball portion (10); a resin liner (3) covering the ball portion (10) of the inside member (1) and held in sliding contact with the ball portion (10); and an outside member (2) molded outside the resin liner (3) by a forging process and held in close contact with an entire of an outer peripheral surface of the resin liner (3) without being brought into contact with the inside member (1), for undetachably enclosing and holding the resin liner (3). |
| US08281489B2 |
Flat tube, flat tube heat exchanger, and method of manufacturing same
A number of flat tubes, flat tube heat exchangers, and methods of manufacturing both are described and illustrated. The flat tubes can be constructed of one, two, or more pieces of sheet material. A profiled insert integral with the flat tube or constructed from another sheet of material can be used to define multiple flow channels through the flat tube. The flat tubes can be constructed of relatively thin material, and can be reinforced with folds of the flat tube material and/or of an insert in areas subject to higher pressure and thermal stresses. Also, the relatively thin flat tube material can have a corrosion layer enabling the material to resist failure due to corrosion. Heat exchangers having such flat tubes connected to collection tubes are also disclosed, as are manners in which such tubes can be provided with fins. |
| US08281482B2 |
Method of fabricating crack-resistant thermal bend actuator
A method of fabricating a thermal bend actuator comprises the steps of: (a) depositing a first layer comprised of silicon nitride onto a sacrificial scaffold; (b) depositing a second layer comprised of silicon dioxide onto the first layer; (c) depositing an active beam layer onto the second layer; (d) etching the active beam layer, the first layer and the second layer to define the thermal bend actuator; and (e) releasing the thermal bend actuator by removing the sacrificial scaffold. |
| US08281477B2 |
Method for setting needles in needle boards for felting machines
A semi-automatic loader for needle boards (2) includes a filling device (51)that presents felting needles (17) arranged at a ratio that is consistent with the ratio of holes of a needle board. A machine operator can then grasp the felting 5 needles (17) by use of a multiple collet chuck (45) and set them in groups in the rows of holes of the needle board (2). This provides a loading method featuring extremely high productivity. |
| US08281472B2 |
Method of manufacturing continuous sucker rod
A method for manufacturing a continuous sucker rod coil, wherein the method includes the step of selecting a plurality of input coils, each input coil having the same uniform hardness, and each input coil having two free ends. The method further includes the step of fusing adjacent free ends of adjacent input coils together to form one continuous length of rod, the fusing creating fused areas and a heat-affected zone at each fused area. The method also includes the step of treating each of the heat-affected zones to alleviate irregularities induced during fusing. Additionally, the method includes the step of winding the continuous length of rod into a finished coil. |
| US08281470B2 |
Escutcheon installation tool
An installation tool for installing an escutcheon on a sprinkler assembly includes an extension member and a body portion. The body portion may be disposed on an end of the extension member. The body portion may include a sleeve adjustably engaging a base. The body portion may also include a recess adapted to releasably receive an escutcheon. The installation tool is adapted to remotely install the escutcheon to a sprinkler assembly. |
| US08281469B2 |
Sealing plug removal apparatus
Apparatus for removing a sealing plug from a bore, the sealing plug has an outer sleeve and an inner stem retained within the outer sleeve, the removal taking place after a suitable hole has been drilled part-way into the stem, the removal apparatus has a tapered punch for forcible insertion into the hole in the stem to create an interference fit between the punch and the stem and thereafter driving the stem out of the sleeve while also retaining the stem on the punch by virtue of the interference fit, and sleeve-engaging portion engagable with the sleeve after the punch has removed the stem from the sleeve, the sleeve-engaging portion and the punch being thereafter removable from the bore to remove both the sleeve and the stem from the bore while the sleeve and the stem are both retained on the appropriate parts of the apparatus. |
| US08281468B2 |
Method of manufacturing piezoelectric vibrators
Providing a method for manufacturing a package capable of improving production efficiency. Providing a method for manufacturing a package including: a base board and a lid board which are bonded to each other; an accommodated article which is sealed in a cavity formed between the base board and the lid board; and a penetration electrode which is disposed in a penetration hole penetrating through the base board so as to electrically connect the accommodated article to the outside, the method including: a penetration hole forming step of forming a penetration hole for the penetration electrodes 30b, 30b in the base board; a penetration electrode alignment step of inserting a core portion 7 of a conductive rivet member 9 into the penetration hole of the base board; a glass frit filling step of applying a paste-like glass frit 6a onto the other surface of the base board and filling the glass frit into the penetration hole; and a baking step of baking and curing the glass frit, wherein the glass frit filling step involves forming a glass frit filling portion 41 having a larger diameter than the penetration hole and filling the glass frit also into the glass frit filling portion. |
| US08281460B2 |
Handle assembly for a domestic appliance
A handle assembly for mounting to a door of an appliance includes a main body member having first and second end portions separated by an intermediate portion. Each of the first and second end portions includes a cavity adapted to receive an end insert formed of soft material. Each of the end inserts includes an attachment member. The handle is mounted to a front face of the door through interengagment of the attachment members and base members provided on the door without scratching the surface of the door. |
| US08281452B2 |
Wiper device
A wiper device includes first and second pivot shafts, first and second pivot holders, a hollow frame, a drive source, and a link rod. The first and second pivot holders are fixed to a vehicle body, pivotally support the first and second pivot shafts, and include first and second attachment shafts, respectively. The hollow frame couples the pivot holders to each other. The link rod transmits drive force of the drive source to the first and second pivot shafts. The hollow frame includes first and second coupling-fixing portions and a drive source fixing portion. The first and second attachment shafts are respectively crimped and fixed to the coupling-fixing portions. Axes of the first and second coupling-fixing portions lie along a straight line. The hollow frame is bent so as to arrange the drive source fixing portion spaced apart from the first and second pivot holders in a direction extending from the distal ends towards basal ends of the pivot shafts. |
| US08281448B2 |
Oral care implement having one or more moving sections
An oral care implement is provided having a head frame and a cleaning elements assembly attached thereto with tooth cleaning elements extending from one or more carriers. One or more central carriers can be suspended via a flexible bridge between a pair of support carriers attached to the head frame. The bridge may be formed from an elastomer and permit the one or more central carriers to move from an initial position toward the head frame during use. The bridge may include rigid supports and flexible elastomeric supports. The carriers and the bridge can be formed as a unitary assembly attached to the head frame, such as via mechanical connections. The mechanical connections could include snap-fit connections. |
| US08281443B2 |
Multi-motion toothbrush
An electrically powered toothbrush has a body having a first end, a head opposite the first end, a neck between the first end and head, an electrical motor and a power source disposed in the body, a drive shaft operatively connected to the motor, and a bristle carrier. The head has a frame defining a recess. The shaft has a longitudinal axis of rotation and a portion offset from the axis of rotation. The bristle carrier is disposed within the recess and is pivotally secured to the frame by a laterally extending pivot member disposed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of rotation. The bristle carrier has a receiving channel adapted to receive the offset portion. The rotation of the drive shaft causes the offset portion to engage the receiving channel of the bristle carrier thereby causing the bristle carrier to pivot about the pivot member. |
| US08281441B1 |
Hand-held submersible pool and spa power cleaner
A hand-held submersible power cleaner for cleaning debris from a swimming pool includes a housing having an inlet at a front end thereof which communicates with an interior cavity of the housing. An intermediate conduit having front and rear ends extends through the interior cavity. A filter is positioned between the inlet and front end of the intermediate conduit. A removable drive assembly having an impeller at a forward end and a power switch at the opposing end is removably inserted into the housing such that the impeller faces the rear end of the intermediate conduit. Dual outlet conduits communicate with the rear end of the intermediate conduit, wherein the impeller draws water and debris through the inlet, the filter occludes the debris and retains it in the cavity while the water flows through the filter assembly into the intermediate conduit, and is discharged through the dual outlet conduits at the rear of the housing. |
| US08281440B2 |
Footwear incorporating a light source and methods for manufacturing the same
An embodiment of the present invention is a method that includes the steps of: incorporating at least one light source in an upper part of a shoe, wherein the at least one light source that comprises at least a light emitting source that is capable of illuminating, wherein the shoe comprises: 1) the upper part, 2) at least one bonding strip, and 3) a shoe bottom sole part, assembling at least the upper part with the at least one bonding strip and the shoe bottom sole part to form an assembled unit; and c) applying sufficient heat to vulcanize the assembled unit so as to result in securing the upper part to the at least one bonding strip and the shoe bottom sole part to form the shoe having the at least one light source that is capable of illuminating. |
| US08281439B2 |
Control and wash cycle for activation and deactivation of chemistry in the wash bath of an automatic washer
A control for an automatic washer to operate the washer through a wash cycle determined based upon various soils and stains in the substrate load to be washed with a wash liquor in a wash zone of the washer. The control has a plurality of stain/soil type entrées, which can be at least one of selected and detected, and cleaned with a particular wash cycle. The control has dispensing control over at least one wash liquor additive. The control has operational control over activators and deactivators for members of the additives group. The control has operational control over the particular wash cycles using the dispensing control to dispense additives to the wash liquor at selected times during the wash cycle and operating the activators and deactivators at selected times during the wash cycle. |
| US08281432B2 |
Crib bumper and bed structure formed therewith
A crib bumper (23) includes a mattress-receiving base (40), and a continuous sidewall or row of bumper elements (50) attached to, and extending upright relative to, the base (40) encircling and defining a mattress-receiving opening (51) into a mattress-receiving area (51A) formed by base (40). A supporting spine (71) is coupled between the base (40) and each of the bumper elements (50) maintaining the bumper elements (50) upright relative to the base (40). |
| US08281428B1 |
Disability shower
A shower unit includes a shower seat having a plurality of moveable seat pads. Each seat pad is moveable between an extended position wherein the pad is in contact with the body of a user sitting on the seat and a retracted position wherein the pad is spaced away from the user's body. When a pad is in the retracted position, the body surface that would normally be occluded by the pad becomes accessible to spray from a nozzle so that the body surface can be cleaned. While any one pad is in the retracted position, the user is supported on enough of the other seat pads to remain in a stable sitting position. The spray nozzles may be mounted in the seat pads themselves, or may be mounted in the shower seat proximate to the pads. |
| US08281423B2 |
Multi-use portable hand held hygienic device
A multi-functional handheld hygienic device with a J-shaped nozzle and attachment options for alternate use externally on either the genital area as a bidet or the rectal area as a wash and for use internally in the genital area as a douche and the rectal area as an enema. A temperature controlled water tank or water diverter attached to a combined hot and cold faucet supplies temperature controlled water to the nozzle. |
| US08281416B1 |
Cooking utensil gripping glove
A device used while cooking to retain utensils and protect a user's hand and forearm from grease splatters is herein described. The device comprises a glove body made of a flexible fire-resistant material with individual finger and thumb appendages for increased dexterity. The device extends from the hand portion toward a wearer's elbow where an elastic strap provides a seal which prevents heated grease from splattering inside of the glove. A pair of straps is located within the palm area to help retain spatulas, spoons, tongs, whisks, or other similar food preparation utensils. The straps are secured together with fasteners thereby allowing the straps to adjust to any size utensil handle. |
| US08281412B2 |
Multi-piece article of clothing
A multi-piece article of clothing, and a method of manufacturing the same, includes a plurality of pieces of clothing. Each of the plurality of pieces of clothing includes a top strap and a bottom leg portion being substantially opposite one another for engaging with an opposite shoulder and leg of a person, respectively. Each of the plurality of pieces of clothing includes a body portion, and each of the body portions includes a crotch portion. Each of the body portions include one leg opening and one hip opening defined by the crotch portions and respective side sections. The body portion of each of the plurality of pieces of clothing is in overlapping relation with each other to at least partially cover the person. |
| US08286260B2 |
Protein microscope
A system and method for analyzing and imaging a sample containing molecules of interest combines modified MALDI mass spectrometer and SNOM devices and techniques and includes: (A) an atmospheric pressure or near-atmospheric pressure ionization region; (B) a sample holder for holding the sample; (C) a laser for illuminating said sample; (D) a mass spectrometer having at least one evacuated chamber; (E) an atmospheric pressure interface for connecting said ionization region and said mass spectrometer; (F) a scanning near-field optical microscopy instrument; (G) a recording device for recording topography and mass spectrum measurements made during scanning of the sample with the near-field probe; (H) a plotting device for plotting said topography and mass spectrum measurements as separate x-y mappings; and (I) an imaging device for providing images of the x-y mappings. |
| US08286257B2 |
Enabling synchronous and asynchronous collaboration for software applications
A method for collaborating a first computer with a second computer. The method includes sending an invitation from the first computer to the second computer, and sending a list of permissions from the first computer to the second computer upon acceptance of the invitation. The list of permissions allows the second computer to access a limited portion of one or more data on the first computer. The method further includes performing an analysis on the limited portion of the data stored on the first computer by the second computer, and sending a notification from the second computer to the first computer, wherein the notification indicates that the analysis has been performed on the limited portion of the data. |
| US08286252B2 |
Rights object moving method, content player, and semiconductor device
A method of moving a rights object according to the present invention includes the following steps. First, a rights object in the memory card is disabled. Then, the rights object is copied from the memory card in response to a retrieval request and installed to a content player. After the installation, a removal request is transmitted to the memory card and the rights object in the memory card is removed (deleted). After transmitting the removal request, second state information is generated and held in the content player to indicate that the removal of the rights object in the memory card has not yet been completed and that the rights object installed in the content player is conditionally enabled. When the memory card receives the removal request, the memory card removes the rights object from the memory card and transmits a removal response for notifying completion of the removal to the content player. |
| US08286249B2 |
Attack correlation using marked information
Techniques are described for providing security to a protected network. Techniques are described for thwarting attempted network attacks using marked information. The attack correlation system provides marked information to computing devices that probe for sensitive information, and monitors subsequent communications for use of the marked information. In one example, the attack correlation system reroutes communications containing the marked information to a dedicated vulnerable device that logs the communications to monitor the attackers' methods. The attack correlation system may also include functionality to exchange information regarding attempted attacks with other attack correlation systems to gain broader knowledge of attacks throughout one or more networks. |
| US08286244B2 |
Method and system for protecting a computer network against packet floods
A method of controlling protection of a computing device or computer network. The method comprises directing incoming data packets to the computing device or computer network via a rate limiting system that is adapted to parse the data packets, providing the computing device or computer network with at least one threshold parameter for identifying a data flood condition, the threshold parameter being a function of one or more available computing resources of the computing device or computer network; the computing device or computer network responding to incoming data packets received via the rate limiting system that cause the at least one threshold parameter to be breached by generating event data; generating feedback data based on the event data; transmitting the feedback data to the rate limiting system; and the rate limiting system modifying its behavour according to the feedback data. |
| US08286241B1 |
Identifying legitimate content using user-agent-based white listing
Known legitimate applications are analyzed to establish a list of trusted user-agent strings used by the applications to download content from a network. Traffic interception modules connected to the network examine traffic exchanged between clients and servers on the network, recognize traffic associated with downloads of content from the network, and create content download descriptions describing the downloads. The content download descriptions are analyzed to identify content downloads using the trusted user-agent strings. Identifiers of the content downloaded using the trusted user-agent strings are added to a white list of legitimate content. Access to the white list is provided to clients and the clients use the white list to identify legitimate content. |
| US08286240B2 |
Method and system for content categorization
The invention discloses a method and system for content categorization, which aims at reducing the processing burthen of the content categorization as well as the network transmission traffic. The method comprises: transmitting, by a content categorization requester, a content digest of a content to be categorized to a content categorization provider; and performing, by the content categorization provider, content categorization according to the content digest. The device for requesting content categorization comprises: a digest operation determination component, adapted to determine whether it is necessary to obtain a content digest of a content to be categorized; a digest obtaining component, adapted to obtain the content digest of the content to be categorized when the digest operation determination component determines it necessary to obtain the content digest of the content to be categorized; and a first transmit component, adapted to transmit the content digest obtained by the digest obtaining component. |
| US08286236B2 |
Manufacturing control system
Methods and systems for a manufacturing control system include but are not limited to identifying at least one object data file configured to produce an object by a manufacturing machine; confirming that an authorization code is associated with the object data file, the authorization code configured to be received by the manufacturing machine, the manufacturing machine adapted to receive the authorization code; and enabling the manufacturing machine to interface with the object data file only if the authorization code meets one or more predetermined conditions. |
| US08286235B2 |
Apparatus and method for managing rights object
An apparatus and method for managing a rights object by backing up and restoring the rights object between a host device and a multimedia card are provided. The apparatus includes an input unit that receives an order signal from a user, a rights-object-managing unit that determines whether the rights object can be backed up and restored based on rights object information when the order signal is input, and backs up and restores the rights object according to a result of the determination, and an information-managing unit that manages information related to movement and removal of the rights object and information on the backed up and restored rights object. |
| US08286234B2 |
Image processing apparatus, screen selection method, and screen selection program embodied on computer readable medium
In order to improve operability by decreasing the number of times of switching between screens, an MFP includes an authentication portion which authenticates a user using authentication information input into one of first to third user I/Fs, a process executing portion which executes processes according to settings input, a first association data storing portion which stores first association data associating input data with the authenticated user, a second association data storing portion which stores second association data associating processes executed for the input data with the respective user I/Fs, and a determining portion which determines, in response to authentication by the authentication portion, a screen for the process associated by the second association data with one of the first to third user I/Fs that accepted the authentication information used for the authentication, if data associated with the authenticated user by the first association data is stored. |
| US08286233B1 |
Apparatus and method for preventing eavesdropping
A method and apparatus prevent eavesdropping via a computer by detecting and alerting if more than one authorized driver is controlling a interface circuit that is providing audio or video input information. Further, prevention is performed by detecting and alerting if more than one authorized application programming interface is receiving audio or video input information from an authorized driver. Also, prevention is performed by detecting and alerting if more than one authorized software application is receiving audio or video input information from an authorized driver. In addition, prevention is performed by detecting and alerting upon first receipt of audio or visual information by an authorized software application via an authorized application programming interface and authorized driver. |
| US08286229B2 |
Token-based content subscription
Methods, systems, and computer program products are provided for token-based content subscription. Embodiments include receiving a request for content subscription; receiving from a user a subscription token; and delivering content to a device associated with the subscription token. |
| US08286225B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting cyber threats
A method and apparatus for detecting cyber threats using reinforced cookies, which include HTTP cookies, history cookies, cache cookies and/or other types. A history cookie comprises an entry for a particular web page in a browser's navigation history. A cache cookie comprises an entry for a particular object (e.g., an image file) within a browser's cache. Upon a client's first visit to a web server, an identifier record is generated comprising data such as a user ID, a client device ID, an age (e.g., a counter), a cookie type, an authentication field, etc. From the unique identifier, one or more types of reinforced cookies are generated and stored with the client browser. On a subsequent visit, the client's cookie configuration is examined to determine whether the client may be the perpetrator or victim of a cyber attack. Cookies may be updated or replaced on some or all visits. |
| US08286224B2 |
Authentication device and network authentication system, method for authenticating terminal device and program storage medium
When an authentication identifier is contained in a first message required for receiving authentication with respect to IEEE 802.1x from a terminal device, the authentication is assumed to be successful and then a data link is established with the terminal device, and a filtering unit is set so as to pass a first packet which should be passed for receiving authentication with respect to a higher layer protocol from among packets sent from the terminal device through the data link and to block a second packet different from the first packet. If a second message required for receiving authentication with respect to the higher layer protocol from the terminal device is received through the filtering unit, the authentication with respect to the higher layer protocol is performed. When the authentication is successful, the filtering unit is set so as to pass the second packet. |
| US08286222B2 |
Authentication method for pharmaceutical products having coded packaging
A method for authenticating a pharmaceutical product, the pharmaceutical product being associated with packaging having disposed thereon or therein coded data including a number of coded data portions, each coded data portion being indicative of an identity of the pharmaceutical product and at least part of a digital signature of at least part of the identity. The method includes, using a sensing device to sense at least one coded data portion. A processor then determines the identity at least one determined signature part, and uses these to authenticate the pharmaceutical product. The coded data is arranged in accordance with at least one layout having n-fold rotational symmetry, where n is at least two. The layout includes n identical sub-layouts rotated 1/n revolutions apart about a centre of rotation. At least one sub-layout includes rotation-indicating data that distinguishes that sub-layout from each other sub-layout |
| US08286221B2 |
Security architecture
A device for communicating with other devices to allow them to access applications, comprises: at least a first application; authentication means for authenticating a communicating device; and access control means accessible by a communicating device requesting access to the first application without the communicating device having been authenticated by the authentication means. The device is further arranged to arbitrate whether access of the communicating device to the first application is granted or refused wherein if the arbitration requires an authentication of the communicating device, the access control means instructs the authentication means to authenticate the communicating device. |
| US08286220B2 |
Browser access control
Systems, methods and apparatus for a distributed security that monitors communications to manage client browser network access based upon the browser configuration of the client browser by use of a configuration script executed in the browser environment. Such management can reduce the exposure of potentially vulnerable client browsers to domains associated with malicious activity. |
| US08286211B1 |
Wireless audio and video signal transmitting and receiving system
A wireless audio and video signal transmitting and receiving system includes a transmitting assembly including having a first logic circuit, an input for receiving a plurality of channel signals electrically coupled to the first logic circuit and at least one signal transmitter electrically coupled to the first logic circuit. The signal transmitter transmits all of the channel signals on a discrete channel frequency. Each of a plurality of receiving assemblies includes a second logic circuit and signal receiver electrically coupled to the second logic circuit. The signal receiver receives the channel signals from the at least one signal transmitter. An output electrically coupled to the second logic circuit is electrically couplable to a monitoring device to monitor the channel signals received by the signal receiver. |
| US08286210B2 |
HDMI switching technology for the coupling of consumer electronic control and/or non-consumer electronic control devices in an audio/visual environment
A switching module, system and method facilitate communications between one or more non-CEC enabled devices and a television of an audio/visual (A/V) system. The switching module is able to accommodate both Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) enabled and non-CEC enabled devices for communication with the television. In response to user control of a user interface of the switching module, when a non-CEC enabled device is coupled to the switching module, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI) input port of the HDMI switching module is selected and a default HDMI device type and corresponding HDMI logic address is set for the non-CEC enabled device. This information is displayed for the user by the television. |
| US08286207B1 |
System for processing programs and system timing information derived from multiple broadcast sources
A system for initiating scheduled program processing functions such as program display, recording or playback, derives a time clock based on a current time reference indication produced by a particular broadcast source. The derived time clock is used in initiating scheduled processing functions for programs derived from the particular broadcast source and time clocks derived from sources other than the particular broadcast source are disregarded. The system displays a second time clock different to the derived time clock. In addition, the system forms a composite program guide from data from multiple broadcast sources to associate current time reference indications with their corresponding broadcast sources. |
| US08286206B1 |
Automatic rating optimization
Automatic rating optimization is described. In an embodiment, ratings of a program can be received from one or more rating sources. Based on these ratings, a representation of a content selection mechanism can be sent to potential consumers of the content. Access events for the content can be counted over a duration of time so a determination can be made regarding how the ratings provided by each of the rating sources affect popularity of the content. A weight accorded to ratings received from each of the rating sources can be adjusted based on the determination. Profiles can be established for consumers and/or rating sources. |
| US08286204B2 |
Data communication system, apparatus and control method therefor
A control system includes a control apparatus and a controlled apparatus, wherein the control apparatus is remotely controlled by a remote controller. The controlled apparatus transmits a control panel to the control apparatus. The control panel includes icons used to control the controlled apparatus. The controlled apparatus includes (a) a communication unit which receives, from the control apparatus, remote control information including information about operation keys included in the remote controller, the remote control information being received before the controlled apparatus transmits the control panel to the control apparatus, and (b) a modifying unit which modifies a position of the icons included in the control panel according to the remote control information. The communication unit transmits the control panel to the control apparatus after the modifying unit modifies the position of the icons included in the control panel according to the remote control information. |
| US08286203B2 |
System and method for enhanced hot key delivery
According to one embodiment, a service provider determines whether to inform one or more users of an interactive television service of available content. Responsive to determining to inform the one or more users of the available content, a hot key signal is generated. The hot key signal is sent to the users via a side channel out-of-band with one or more channels for content. The hot key signal from the out-of band side channel is received by a terminal device. The terminal device determines whether the hot key signal is relevant to a user currently viewing content from the service provider. Responsive to determining the hot key signal is relevant to the user, an indication that the hot key signal has been received is displayed. Responsive to receiving an indication that the hot key is accepted, the user is directed to the available content indicated by the hot key signal. |
| US08286201B2 |
Digital broadcasting receiver and a data processing method
A digital broadcasting system and a data processing method are disclosed. A data processing method of a digital broadcasting receiver comprises receiving a mobile/handheld (MH) broadcasting signal including mobile service data and main service data; generating a RS (Reed-Solomon) frame from the received MH broadcasting signal; extracting control data from the RS frame, the control data including charge adjustment information required to use a service provided by at least one service provider, the service being encrypted; determining whether the service is available, by comparing the extracted charge adjustment information with balance information written in the smart card; controlling the second RS frame using the control data so that an encrypted service of the second RS frame is decrypted, if the service is available; and mapping the extracted charge adjustment information with a corresponding service provider and storing the information. |
| US08286198B2 |
Application programming interfaces for data parallel computing on multiple processors
A method and an apparatus for a parallel computing program calling APIs (application programming interfaces) in a host processor to perform a data processing task in parallel among compute units are described. The compute units are coupled to the host processor including central processing units (CPUs) and graphic processing units (GPUs). A program object corresponding to a source code for the data processing task is generated in a memory coupled to the host processor according to the API calls. Executable codes for the compute units are generated from the program object according to the API calls to be loaded for concurrent execution among the compute units to perform the data processing task. |
| US08286196B2 |
Parallel runtime execution on multiple processors
A method and an apparatus that schedule a plurality of executables in a schedule queue for execution in one or more physical compute devices such as CPUs or GPUs concurrently are described. One or more executables are compiled online from a source having an existing executable for a type of physical compute devices different from the one or more physical compute devices. Dependency relations among elements corresponding to scheduled executables are determined to select an executable to be executed by a plurality of threads concurrently in more than one of the physical compute devices. A thread initialized for executing an executable in a GPU of the physical compute devices are initialized for execution in another CPU of the physical compute devices if the GPU is busy with graphics processing threads. Sources and existing executables for an API function are stored in an API library to execute a plurality of executables in a plurality of physical compute devices, including the existing executables and online compiled executables from the sources. |
| US08286194B2 |
Coupling state aware systems
A method of coupling asynchronous process interaction between computer systems integrated within an overall system of interconnected systems includes receiving a set of information describing an invocation call for execution of a first process on a first system integrated within the overall system; correlating a first callback argument received upon completion of the first process that includes a first unique identifier for the first process generated by the first system with the set of information according to the first unique identifier for the first process; and sending a notification message to a callback endpoint in a second process implemented to receive notification upon completion of the first process by the first system indicating completion of the first process. The second process executing on a second system integrated within the overall system makes the invocation call. The set of information specifies the first unique identifier and the callback endpoint. |
| US08286188B1 |
Method and apparatus for advanced interprocess communication
An interprocess memory controller is described that may be used to provide multiple processes within a multi-process device with access to a shared physical memory. The described interprocess memory controller may enforce access rights to shared memory that has been allocated to the respective processes, thereby guarding the multi-process device from instability due to the unauthorized overwriting and/or unauthorized freeing of allocated memory. The described interprocess memory controller approach may streamline interprocess communication by allowing data associated with an interprocess communication to be passed from a first process to a second process by passing a pointer as well as access rights to a buffer in shared memory that contains the message data. In this manner, the described interprocess memory controller approach may avoid the inefficiency of interprocess communication approaches that copy message data from a shared memory controlled by a first process to a shared memory controlled by a second process. |
| US08286186B2 |
System and method for extensible data interface for shared service module
A system and associated method for interfacing between caller applications and a shared service module. Upon receiving a request for a transaction, the shared service module creates a separate data structure per request from a caller application and configures a caller identifier to uniquely identify the caller application. The separate data structure per request can be extended by the shared service module with additional attributes that may be used, without impacting the service application data model, in the request to support servicing the request. The shared service module generates a generic service document to return the result after servicing the request to the caller application. |
| US08286183B2 |
Techniques for task management using presence
Techniques for scheduling a task include receiving task data and quorum data. Task data describes tasks to be performed by one or more participants. Quorum data indicates a participant set of one or more participants to perform each task. Current user data may also be received. Current user data describes a current task set of one or more tasks currently being performed by a particular participant. Either or both of the task data and the current user data describe interruptibility through a particular medium of a plurality of communications media. A particular time interval to schedule a particular task is determined based at least in part on the interruptibility of the task or the particular participant. These techniques allow either or both unscheduled tasks and previously scheduled tasks to be moved to time intervals that overlap other scheduled tasks, including tasks currently being performed by a participant. |
| US08286180B2 |
Synchronisation of execution threads on a multi-threaded processor
Method and apparatus are provided for a synchronizing execution of a plurality of threads on a multi-threaded processor. Each thread is provided with a number of synchronization points corresponding to points where it is advantageous or preferable that execution should be synchronized with another thread. Execution of a thread is paused when it reaches a synchronization point until at least one other thread with which it is intended to be synchronized reaches a corresponding synchronization point. Execution is subsequently resumed. Where an executing thread branches over a section of code which included a synchronization point then execution is paused at the end of the branch until the at least one other thread reaches the synchronization point of the end of the corresponding branch. |
| US08286166B2 |
Interruptible thread synchronization method and apparatus
An interruptible thread synchronization method and apparatus are provided. The interruptible thread synchronization method includes controlling mutually exclusive access to an object by one or more threads using a monitor, and interrupting a first thread that is on standby for the monitor. The interruptible thread synchronization method and apparatus allows for access and control of an object by one or more threads. |
| US08286164B2 |
Secure recursive virtualization
A mechanism is provided for performing secure recursive virtualization of a computer system. A portion of memory is allocated by a virtual machine monitor (VMM) or an operating system (OS) to a new domain. An initial program for the new domain is loaded into the portion of memory. Secure recursive virtualization firmware (SVF) in the data processing system is called to request that the new domain be generated. A determination is made as to whether the call is from a privileged domain or a non-privileged domain. Responsive to the request being from a privileged domain, all access to the new domain is removed from any other domain in the data processing system. Responsive to receiving an indication that the new domain has been generated, an execution of the initial program is scheduled. |
| US08286163B2 |
Coupling between server and storage apparatus using detected I/O adaptor and allowing application execution based on access group and port connection group in virtualized environment
The management computer creates a connection between a virtual computer and a logical volume of a storage apparatus based on the application management information that stores a connection relationship between an application program and an I/O adapter, before a server computer provided with a hypervisor that logically divides the computer resources that include a CPU, a memory, and an I/O adapter and that operates them as an independent virtual computer starts an application program that has been stored into the storage apparatus on the virtual computer. |
| US08286153B2 |
Systems and methods for optimal component composition in a stream processing system
A system and method are provided for optimizing component composition in a distributed stream-processing environment having a plurality of nodes capable of being associated with one or more of a plurality of stream processing components. The system includes an adaptive composition probing (ACP) module and a hierarchical state manager. The ACP module probes a subset of the plurality of stream processing components to determine the optimal component composition in response to a stream processing request. The hierarchical state manager manages local and global information for use by said ACP module in determining the optimal component composition. |
| US08286151B2 |
Overlay instruction accessing unit and overlay instruction accessing method
The present invention provides an overlay instruction accessing unit and method, and a method and apparatus for compressing and storing a program. The overlay instruction accessing unit is used to execute a program stored in a memory in the form of a plurality of compressed program segments, and compresses: a buffer; a processing unit for issuing an instruction reading request, reading an instruction from the buffer, and executing the instruction; and a decompressing unit for reading a requested compressed instruction segment from the memory in response to the instruction reading request of the processing unit, decompressing the compressed instruction segment, and storing the decompressed instruction segment in the buffer, wherein while the processing unit is executing the instruction segment, the decompressing unit reads, according to a storage address of a compressed program segment to be invoked in a header corresponding to the instruction segment, a corresponding compressed instruction segment from the memory, decompresses the compressed instruction segment, and stores the decompressed instruction segment in the buffer for later use by the processing unit. |
| US08286150B2 |
Module generating apparatus, module generating method, and computer product
A computer is caused to function as a parsing unit, a macroblocking analyzing unit, a junction-node restructuring unit, an identical portion merging/restructuring unit, a similar portion merging/restructuring unit, and an intermediate language restructuring unit. The parsing unit performs syntax analysis of a source code. The macroblocking analyzing unit segments the program written in the source code into blocks and appends a virtual portion representing a unique number in a statement, to a number for identifying a variable for the statement in each block to virtualize a calculation pattern. The junction-node restructuring unit extracts a node directly related to a subroutine block. The identical portion merging/restructuring unit merges pre-processing together and post-processing together for a subroutine called up at a multiple portions in the program. The similar portion merging/restructuring unit integrates subroutines having similar structures into a related subroutine. |
| US08286146B2 |
Method for automatic generation of schema mapping application code
A method for automatic generation of schema mapping application code. The method includes loading a code generation tool with source and target schemas. The method further includes defining the mapping specification between the source and the target. The method proceeds by triggering the code generation tool. Afterwards, the method proceeds by compiling the generated code. Furthermore, the method includes executing the generated code to transform input data files. |
| US08286143B2 |
Method and system for monitoring code change impact on software performance
Method and system for detection and notification of performance changes in program code. In one aspect, stored previous routine test results and current routine test results are accessed, indicating a previous and current time of execution of the program code, the current routine test performed later than the previous routine test. The previous and current times of execution are automatically compared and a change in performance of the program code is determined. Users are notified of the change in performance, where each user is notified after the change in performance is determined to be significant enough to the particular user according to associated predetermined criteria. |
| US08286142B2 |
Method and system for providing a visual debugger for an interpreted statistical language
Methods and systems for visual debugging of an interpreted language in, for example, an Interactive Development Environment are provide. Example embodiments provide an S-PLUS Visual Debugging System (“SPVDS”), which includes an S-PLUS Workbench Debugger (“SPWD”) that provides “step-based” visual debugging, enabling programmers to step through execution of expressions by setting and otherwise managing breakpoints, examining variables and expressions, and controlling execution such as by step, step-in, step-out, step-over, continue, stop commands. In addition, the SPWD provides a profiler which tracks the number and duration of calls to functions and the amount of memory allocated to variables. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and it is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. |
| US08286131B2 |
Environment definition files for an environment definition system
An Environment Management System (EMS) provides on-demand instances of environments for testing hardware and/or software configurations. In various embodiments, the EMS includes a processing engine that handles parsing and execution of commands in a definition file that express the lifecycle of a testing environment. Accordingly, the EMS provides flexibility to end users in the way that environments are configured and deployed. An environment definition file is provided that may contain a standard set of scripts for implementing the lifecycle of the environment, along with any custom logic specific to a user or customer. |
| US08286127B2 |
Mirrored file system
Mounting and populating a mirrored version of at least a portion of a file system of a recruiter machine at a volunteer machine performing one or more data processing tasks for the recruiter machine is disclosed. In some embodiments, an input stored in such a dedicated file system for the recruiter machine at the volunteer machine may be locally retrieved and reused, if still consistent with a corresponding input stored in a file system at the recruiter machine, when performing a data processing task for the recruiter machine at the volunteer machine. In some embodiments, if an input required by the volunteer machine to perform a data processing task for the recruiter machine is not cached in such a dedicated file system for the recruiter machine at the volunteer machine in a state that is consistent with a corresponding input stored in a file system at the recruiter machine, the input is obtained from the recruiter machine. |
| US08286122B2 |
Method, system, and computer product for forming a graph structure that describes free and occupied areas
A graph structure is generated to describe an area with a free area and an occupied area. In this case a topological graph structure for the free area is determined. A point of the topological graph structure is selected and for this a nearest adjacent occupied area point is determined. For this nearest adjacent occupied area point location information is determined. The graph structure is formed from at least the selected point of the topological graph structure and from the associated location information of the nearest adjacent occupied area point. |
| US08286121B2 |
Preconditioning for EDA cell library
A characterized cell library for EDA tools includes one or more mathematical models for each cell, and one or more preconditioning functions (and/or inverse preconditioning functions) for each mathematical model. Each mathematical model represents a performance parameter (e.g., delay, power consumption, noise) or a preconditioned performance parameter of the cell. The preconditioning functions convert an operating parameter (e.g., input slew, output capacitance) associated with the performance parameter into a preconditioned input variable for the mathematical models. In doing so, the preconditioning functions allow for more accurate modeling of complex data relationships without increasing the complexity (e.g., order and number of coefficients) of the mathematical models. Also, because the cell library can be substantially similar to conventional polynomial-based cell libraries except for the inclusion of preconditioning functions, preconditioning does not significantly increase storage requirements and conventional EDA tools can be readily adapted to use the preconditioned cell library. |
| US08286112B2 |
Methods for characterization of electronic circuits under process variability effects
A method for determining an estimate of statistical properties of an electronic system comprising individual components subject to manufacturing process variability is disclosed. In one aspect, the method comprises obtaining statistical properties of the performance of individual components of the electronic system, obtaining information about execution of an application on the system, simulating execution of the application based on the obtained information about execution of the application on the system for a simulated electronic system realization constructed by selecting individual components with the obtained statistical properties determining the delay and energy of the electronic system, and determining the statistical properties of the delay and energy of the electronic system. |
| US08286109B1 |
Method and apparatus for performing incremental delay annotation
A method for designing a system on a target device includes identifying components and routing connections impacted by incremental design changes made to a system design. New information is computed to annotate delays for the components and routing connections identified. Delays previously computed for components and routing connections are utilized to annotate delays for components and routing connections that have not been impacted by the changes made to the system design. |
| US08286108B2 |
System and method for synthesis reuse
A method of synthesis of multiple implementations of a design is provided comprising: translating a model of the design to a first output model compliant with first constraints; and translating the model of the design to a second output model compliant with second constraints. |
| US08286102B1 |
System and method for image processing using multi-touch gestures
Various embodiments of a system and methods for processing digital images using multi-touch gestures are described. A multi-touch gestural input set which comprises a plurality of touch gestures may be applied to a display of an image. The gestural input set may include different gesture types, such as mobile and stationary gestures. Each gesture type may indicate a different image processing constraint that may be applied to modify the digital image. Stationary gestures may indicate constrained regions of the image that are not subject to modification. Mobile gestures may indicate regions of the image which may be subject to modification. Characteristics of the mobile gestures, such as velocity and/or pressure, may also indicate an amount by which an image may be modified over the region indicated by the mobile gesture. Image masks, which separate foreground and background regions of an image, may also be specified by the gestural input set. |
| US08286101B2 |
Manipulating an on-screen object using zones surrounding the object
A user interface for manipulating objects of various types in a consistent manner. Each on-screen object is surrounded by a control region including a number of zones for performing various control operations on the object. Multiple input modes are available for interacting with the zones, allowing object manipulation commands to be initiated in several different ways, such as via stroke input, pressing a mouse button, double-clicking, menu selection, voice input, and the like. The user interface is operable using any of several different types of input devices. |
| US08286092B2 |
Goal based user interface for managing business solutions in an on demand environment
Embodiments of the present invention generally provide a goal-based graphical user interface for managing business solutions and more particularly, a user interface that helps a user manage and achieve the user's goals across multiple platforms for the solutions utilized by the goals. Furthermore, embodiments of the invention provide a system for managing goals that allows a user to create/customize specific user goals and/or modify existing goals to meet the user's needs. |
| US08286091B2 |
Image display controlling apparatus, image display controlling method, and program
An image display controlling apparatus, including an image-data maintaining section for maintaining a plurality of image data, a link management section for managing a link representing a parent-child relationship of parent image data and child image data between two image data in the plurality of image data, an operation receiving section for receiving operation input relating to a display of the plurality of image data, and a display controlling section for controlling such that switching is performed between a whole display in which all of the plurality of image data is subject to be displayed and a digest display in which image data other than those which are the child image data by the link, out of the plurality of image data, are subject to be displayed in response to the operation input. |
| US08286087B1 |
Active route validation in workflow process authoring
Various embodiments include at least one of systems, methods, software, and data structures for active route validation in workflow process authoring in workflow processing applications. Some embodiments include evaluating a route as a user attempts to add or modify the route in a modeled workflow process. The evaluation is performed in some such embodiments through evaluation of a route restriction rule based on a first workflow element the route is from and a second workflow element the route is to. When the route restriction is violated, the user is prevented from adding or modifying the route. |
| US08286080B2 |
User navigation via vectors dynamically mapped to distinct media attributes
In one embodiment, a method comprises generating and displaying to a user a user selection interface, the user selection interface representing a plurality of content selection vectors extending from its origin and mapped to respectively distinct media attributes within a prescribed attribute type; detecting a user input that extends from the origin toward at least one of the content selection vectors and that identifies a selected position within the user selection interface; displaying to the user an updated user selection interface representing a corresponding updated origin at the selected position and representing a plurality of updated content selection vectors having a determined relation to the at least one content selection vector; and selecting and displaying at least one identifier for a corresponding video content element having the corresponding media attribute having a highest correlation with the at least one content selection vector relative to the selected position from the origin. |
| US08286078B2 |
Apparatus and method for efficiently displaying web contents
A method for displaying web content on a mobile communication terminal is provided. When a touch input is received from a user for web content displayed on the mobile communication terminal having a touch screen, a process for selecting an area to be enlarged at a position where the touch input is generated and overlapping, enlarging, and displaying the selected area on the entire screen is performed. When the selected area is enlarged, rendering performance can be improved and a dynamic view can be provided to the user. |
| US08286070B2 |
Enhanced capture, management and distribution of live presentations
Techniques are provided for converting live presentations into electronic media and managing captured media assets for distribution. An exemplary system includes capture devices that capture media assets of live presentations comprising a session, including image data of sequentially presented visual aids accompanying the live presentations and audio data. Each capture device has an interface for real-time image data marking of the image data for identification of individual images and session marking of the image data for demarcation of individual presentations of the session. A centralized device processes the captured media assets and automatically divides the captured media assets into discrete files associated with the individual presentations based on the session markings. An administrative tool manages the processed media assets to produce modified presentations and enables modification of the visual aid images identified by the image data markings. A production device formats the modified presentations for distribution on distribution media. |
| US08286068B2 |
Linking digital and paper documents
Various embodiments facilitate linking physical documents to digital documents. Links link physical documents to digital documents. Using a sensor, the physical documents are automatically detected and identified on a digital workspace. A computer is capable of displaying graphics, and user interaction with displayed graphics can be detected. The digital workspace displays a GUI component having one or more controls, and the GUI component is displayed at a location relative to a physical document on the digital workspace. User interaction with the control is detected and either a link between the physical document and one of the digital documents is edited, or an existing link between the physical document and a digital document is used to perform an operation on the digital document. Alternatively or additionally, links may be automatically generated digital documents determined to be implicitly related to the physical document. |
| US08286063B2 |
Decoding method and device for Reed-Solomon code
The present invention provides a decoding method and device for Reed-Solomon (RS) codes. The method includes the following steps: A: filling data to be decoded in a byte interleaver by column in turn; B: performing cyclic shift to data in a check region of the byte interleaver by row and/or by column, so as to make the data of each row in the check region become check data in sequence of data of corresponding row in an information region of the byte interleaver; C: performing RS decoding by row method, and writing information data of each row obtained after decoding into the corresponding row in the information region of the byte interleaver in turn; and D: reading business data of the decoded information data from the information region of the byte interleaver by column. The method and device of the present invention achieve the best interleaving effect. |
| US08286062B2 |
Method and apparatus of encoding and decoding data using low density parity check code in a wireless communication system
A method of encoding data using low density parity check (LDPC) code defined by a m×n parity check matrix is disclosed. More specifically, the method includes encoding input source data using the parity check matrix, wherein the parity check matrix comprises a plurality of z×z sub-matrices of which row weights and column weights are ‘0’ or ‘1’. |
| US08286059B1 |
Word-serial cyclic code encoder
A cyclic code encoding device or encoder that contains word registers rather than single bit registers, and can process input bits and parity bits as input words and parity words. The cyclic code encoder can add input words to output register words, generating a feedback word, which can be supplied through a feedback loop that selectively transmits feedback words through weight arrays and intra-register adders, to the input of word registers. A controller can operate the cyclic code encoder in either an input mode or an output mode during which feedback words can be sequentially transmitted on the feedback loop and the states of the word registers can be updated and the final states of the word registers can be sequentially shifted out of the output word register as parity words, respectively. |
| US08286052B2 |
Wireless communication method and apparatus for detecting and decoding enhanced dedicated channel hybrid automatic repeat request indicator channel transmissions
A wireless communication method and apparatus for detecting and decoding enhanced dedicated channel (E-DCH) hybrid automatic repeat request (H-ARQ) indicator channel (E-HICH) transmissions are disclosed. A wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) receives E-HICH transmissions and detects an H-ARQ indicator transmitted via the E-HICH by performing a binary hypothesis test. The WTRU then generates an acknowledgement (ACK) message or a non-acknowledgement (NACK) message based on the detected H-ARQ indicator. A reliability test may be further performed to improve performance, whereby the binary hypothesis test may be performed only if the reliability test is passed. |
| US08286049B1 |
Configurable transmitter including flexible block coder
A configurable transmitter for a wireless communication system may include a flexible block coder, an IFFT block, an analog and RF block, and an antenna coupled in series. The flexible block coder may advantageously perform forward error correction and mapping of a data stream to generate a processed data vector. To perform these functions, the flexible block coder may include a data formatter and a multiplier. The data formatter may format the data stream into an output vector, whereas the multiplier may multiply the output vector by a configurable channel coding matrix to generate the processed data vector. The size of the output vector may be a reflection legacy compatibility and data rate. The size of the processed data vector is equal to a product of the output vector and an inverse of a coding rate. The channel coding matrix may be compressed. |
| US08286048B1 |
Dynamically scaled LLR for an LDPC decoder
A method for decoding an LDPC (low-density parity check) code word. The method includes receiving a plurality of LLR (log likelihood ratio) terms from a demodulation unit of a receiver and generating a scaling factor in accordance with at least one parameter descriptive of communication channel conditions for the receiver. The scaling factor is applied to each of the plurality of LLR terms to compute a corresponding plurality of scaled LLR terms. An iterative layered belief propagation algorithm is then executed by using the plurality of scaled LLR terms to generate decoded information. |
| US08286044B2 |
Dynamic random access memory having internal built-in self-test with initialization
A method for self-contained testing within a DRAM comprises the DRAM receiving an instruction from an external processor to test a memory core on the DRAM, and the DRAM self-testing the memory core with one or more BIST pattern stored in a multipurpose register on the DRAM. Optionally, the step of self-testing may include writing the BIST pattern into all locations of the memory core, reading each location of the memory core, and comparing the content read from each location of the memory core with the BIST pattern, wherein a negative comparison indicates a failure has occurred. In a further option, the method may further comprise, after testing the DRAM, initializing the DRAM with an INIT pattern stored in the multipurpose register on the DRAM. |
| US08286040B2 |
Device and method for testing a circuit
A device having testing capabilities, the device includes: a tested circuit that includes multiple scan chains; a compactor adapted to compress scan chain test responses; a mask unit, connected between the multiple scan chains and the compactor, wherein the mask unit is adapted to mask scan chain test responses outputted by the multiple scan chains during a masking period; and an mask prevention unit, adapted to prevent masking of scan chain test responses during a mask prevention period that at least partially overlaps a mask unit configuration period. |
| US08286037B2 |
Method and device for adjusting communications power
A method and device for adjusting communications power are used for detecting a communications condition between a connection port and a connection target, and a communications-supporting power of the connection port that includes at least one of a transmitting power and a receiving power is adjusted according to a detected communications condition. Therefore, accuracy of data transmission and reception is ensured, and power used for data transmission and reception is reduced. |
| US08286036B2 |
Objective assessment of application crashes from a customer environment
A computerized method for collecting error data and providing error reports relating to occurrences of errors of software applications installed on one or more computing devices is disclosed. Data for describing software applications and identifying software application errors is collected from the computing devices and stored in a catalog. Data associated with error occurrences is obtained and combined with related data being stored in the catalog. A report is generated based on the error occurrences and related catalog data. |
| US08286035B2 |
Operations management apparatus, operations management system, data processing method, and operations management program
An operations management apparatus which acquires performance information for each of a plurality of performance items from a plurality of controlled units and manages operation of the controlled units includes a correlation model generation unit which derives a correlation function between a first series of performance information that indicates time series variation about a first element and a second series of performance information that indicates time series variation about a second element, generates a correlation model between the first element and the second element based on the correlation function, and obtains the correlation model for each element pair of the performance information, and a correlation change analysis unit which analyzes a change in the correlation model based on the performance information acquired newly which has not been used for generation of the correlation model. |
| US08286029B2 |
Systems and methods for managing unavailable storage devices
In some embodiments, storage devices, such as a storage drive or a storage node, in an array of storage devices may be reintroduced into the array of storage devices after a period of temporary unavailability without fully rebuilding the entire previously unavailable storage device. |
| US08286025B1 |
Selection of port adapters for clock crossing boundaries
Methods and apparatus are provided for allowing efficient clock domain crossing management in programmable chip systems. Components associated with different clock domains can be analyzed. Clock domain crossing components are automatically selected from a library of clock domain crossing components to allow connection between disparate clock domains. Clock domain crossing components can be shared, chained, and intelligently selected for increased efficiency. |
| US08286018B2 |
Power management in data storage device determining utilization of a control circuit by its rate of command processing
A power management circuit is provided for a data storage device that is adapted for communicating with a host via an interface circuit. The power management circuit is responsive to a utilization of a control circuit of the data storage device, determined independently of the communication between the data storage device and the host, in providing a supply power to the data storage device. A method is provided comprising connecting a data storage device with a host via an interface circuit; sending data transfer commands from the host to the interface circuit; and monitoring the utilization of a control circuit of the data storage device in terms of the rate at which commands are processed by the control circuit for use in selectively providing a supply power to the data storage device. |
| US08286015B2 |
Storage array power management using lifecycle information
A multi-device storage system can be arranged into power saving systems by placing one or more storage devices into a reduced power consuming state when the storage activity associated with the system is sufficiently reduced that an attendant decrease in throughput will not materially affect users of the storage system. Where data redundancy is provided for, a redundant storage device can be placed into the reduced power consuming state and its redundancy responsibilities can be transitioned to a partition of a larger storage device. Such transitions can be based on specific parameters, such as write cycles or latency, crossing thresholds, including upper and lower thresholds, they can also be based on pre-set times, or a combination thereof. Lifecycle information, including lifecycle information collected in real-time by storage devices on a block-by-block basis, can be utilized to obtain historical empirical data from which to select the pre-set times. |
| US08286012B2 |
Architecture incorporating configurable controller for reducing on chip power leakage
The present invention provides a method and system for controlling leakage power consumption at a System on Chip (SoC) level during a normal run or a boot-up mode. The leakage power reduction is achieved by incorporating a central programmable controller in the SoC architecture and test structures of idle SoC peripherals to place them into an Absolute Minimum Power consumption state with respect to static and dynamic power. |
| US08286011B2 |
Method of waking processor from sleep mode
A method and apparatus for storing and classifying packets transmitted over a network to a processor in a low power mode. The processor receives and classifies the packets as interesting or not interesting. Uninteresting packets are discarded while interesting packets are stored in memory. For the first interesting packet received, a receive timer is activated and for every interesting packet received a counter is incremented. A transmit timer is activated when the processor enters the low power mode. When either the receive timer expires, the transmit timer expires or the counter reaches a threshold value then a wake-up interrupt is asserted. |
| US08286009B2 |
Computer including a carrier board and methods of assembly
A method is provided for assembling a computer that includes a carrier board having a board management controller (BMC), a power supply, and a carrier bus. The method includes coupling a module to the carrier board, determining, by the carrier board, a type of the module, and providing power to the module based on the module type such that a voltage component of the power is one of a first voltage and a second voltage that is different than the first voltage. |
| US08286004B2 |
Saving encryption keys in one-time programmable memory
Described embodiments provide encryption/decryption of data transferred between a media controller and a storage device. The media controller provides encryption/decryption based on a root key (RK). Storage in a one-time programmable (OTP) memory is provided as a plurality of un-burned slots. The OTP memory is initially provided without the RK, which is generated with a random number generator. A control module performs the steps of i) burning the RK to an initial slot of the OTP memory, and ii) validating the burned RK (bRK) stored at the initial slot based on a comparison of the RK and the burned RK. If the control module validates the burned RK, the burned RK is employed by the media controller. Otherwise, one or more subsequent slots of the OTP memory are burned with the RK until the control module validates the corresponding burned RK. |
| US08286002B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing secure remote access to enterprise networks
The invention includes a method and apparatus for providing secure remote access to enterprise networks. An apparatus includes a network interface module adapted for maintaining a secure network connection with a network device independent of a power state of a host computer associated with the apparatus a storage module for storing information associated with the secure connection, and a processor coupled to the network interface and the memory where the processor is adapted for automatically initiating the secure connection without user interaction. |
| US08285996B2 |
Verification of identity based signatures
A database management system (1) comprises up to fifty or more workstations (2), each for a user. The environment may, for example, be a hospital and the system manages medical records in a secure manner. Each user has a private key issued by a KGC (5). A database controller (3) updates a secure database (3) with data and associated signatures generated by the user workstations (2). Thus every record of the secure database (3) has a signature to provide full traceability and non-repudiation of data edits/updates. It is important for the system (1) that the signatures are verified on a regular basis, say every hour. Such a task would be extremely processor-intensive if the database (3) is large. However this is performed by a verification processor (4) of the system (1) in a much shorter time than heretofore, t1+n(&Dgr;), where t1 is the time for one verification, n is the number of signatures, and &Dgr; is a time value which is a very small proportion of t1 (less than 1%). |
| US08285992B2 |
Method and apparatuses for secure, anonymous wireless LAN (WLAN) access
A method and system for providing secure, anonymous access to a wireless local area network, including configuring an access point to drop packets except packets exhibiting an URL access protocol like HTTP and HTTPS, intercepting a URL access request by an access point from a mobile device via a web browser, re-directing the URL access request to a web server by the access point generating a security key by one of the access points and the web server, communicating the generated security key to the said web server securely by the access point or vice versa and setting the security key by the access point is described. A mobile device including means for forwarding a request for secure access to a wireless local area network via a URL access request, means for receiving a mobile code or a signal for displaying a security key and means for setting the security key is also described. |
| US08285987B1 |
Emulation-based software protection
A method of emulation-based page granularity code signing comprising the steps of: copying guest operating system instructions and associated hash message authentication codes and/or digital signatures of each guest operating instruction from an untrusted guest operating system memory into a trusted host operating system memory; recomputing the hash message authentication codes using a secret key in the trusted host operating system memory; maintaining the secret key in the trusted host operating system memory and inaccessible by the untrusted guest operating system instructions; translating each guest operating system instruction that has a valid hash message authentication code to a set of host operating system instructions; executing the decrypted guest operating system instructions in the trusted host operating system; and modifying the guest operating system memory and registers when the set of translated host operating instructions executes in the trusted host operating system, such that it appears as if the original guest operating system instructions had been executed in the untrusted guest operating system. |
| US08285985B2 |
Systems and methods for detecting exposure of private keys
A system and method can include comparing entities associated with public certificates and private keys in a keystore to detect compromised private keys. This increases security of systems implementing public key cryptography over a network. The comparison can be triggered by a trigger event in one embodiment. If a private key belonging to a certificate authority is detected, a notification can be generated. Alternatively or in addition, a revocation request can be generated for public certificates corresponding to the compromised private key. |
| US08285984B2 |
Secure network extension device and method
A network extension device comprising a CPU, memory, protected I/O connectable to local controls and peripherals, external communications port, a trusted device connected to the CPU such that it can provide attestation of the network extension device's trusted operation to a connected known external network, and a protected interface connected to at least one network extension module that includes a local network communications port. Optionally, a traffic encryption module may be provided, and the trusted device's attestation may include a check of its operation. Also, a method comprising connecting the network extension device to an external network, performing an operating mode check, causing the network extension device to operate in a mode and perform a security check that correspond to the result, causing the trusted device to attest trusted operation to the external network and thereafter causing the CPU to function fully and permitting access to the external network. |
| US08285983B2 |
Method and apparatuses for establishing a secure channel between a user terminal and a SIP server
A method of establishing a secure communication channel between a user terminal (2) and a SIP server (14) for the purpose of controlling a service such as an IPTV service. The method comprises sending from the user terminal (2) to the SIP server (14) a session initiation request, via an IP Multimedia Subsystem network, where the IP Multimedia Subsystem network incorporates into the request a P-Asserted-Identity. At the SIP server (14), access to the service is authorized on the basis of said P-Asserted-Identity and, upon successful authorization, a security token is sent to the user terminal (2), via the IP Multimedia Subsystem network. The SIP server (14) and the user terminal (2) use said security token to establish a secure communication channel between each other. |
| US08285982B2 |
System and method for customizing electronic messages
A plug-in is provided to existing electronic message programs, such as electronic mail message programs, to provide a virtual toolbar therein. The virtual toolbar includes one or more virtual buttons that allow a user to select multimedia content to be added to an electronic message. The multimedia content may include, without limitation, any one or more of: graphics, audio, animation, video and text selections. The multimedia content may further include customizable templates in which business messages may be generated. The virtual buttons may be each be assigned to one category of related content, such as: Backgrounds for providing graphic backgrounds to a message, Holiday Themes for providing multimedia content associated with particular holidays, Animations for including FLASH animations or the like to a message, and Text for including pre-formatted text to a message. The content, appearance and number of virtual buttons may automatically be changed or updated by a content provider from time to time when the installed plug-in accesses a content server over a computer network, such as the Internet. |
| US08285977B2 |
System and method for extension of the BIOS boot specification
A system and method is disclosed for extending the BIOS Boot Specification. The specification is extended to accommodate the identification of a greater number of bootable devices. The specification is also extended so that the identifier for each bootable device identifies the default boot order of the device. The specification is also extended to provide additional information about the type of each bootable device and whether each bootable device is an onboard or add-in device. The extension of the BIOS Boot Specification also allows for the designation of certain entries as placeholders for devices that that are supported by the computer system, but not present in the computer system. |
| US08285976B2 |
Method and apparatus for predicting branches using a meta predictor
A branch predicting apparatus is disclosed that reduces branch mispredictions in a processor. The branch prediction apparatus includes a base misprediction history register. The branch prediction apparatus includes a meta predictor that receives an index value and a branch prediction to generate a misprediction value in accordance with the base misprediction history register. The branch prediction apparatus also includes a logic gate that receives the branch prediction and the misprediction value to generate a final prediction. The final prediction may be used to predict whether a branch is taken or not taken. |
| US08285974B2 |
Age matrix for queue entries dispatch order
An apparatus for queue allocation. An embodiment of the apparatus includes a dispatch order data structure, a bit vector, and a queue controller. The dispatch order data structure corresponds to a queue. The dispatch order data structure stores a plurality of dispatch indicators associated with a plurality of pairs of entries of the queue to indicate a write order of the entries in the queue. The bit vector stores a plurality of mask values corresponding to the dispatch indicators of the dispatch order data structure. The queue controller interfaces with the queue and the dispatch order data structure. The queue controller excludes at least some of the entries from a queue operation based on the mask values of the bit vector. |
| US08285970B2 |
Method for managing a memory apparatus, and associated memory apparatus thereof
A method for managing a memory apparatus including at least one non-volatile (NV) memory element includes: providing at least one block of the memory apparatus with at least one local page address linking table within the memory apparatus, wherein the local page address linking table comprises linking relationships between physical page addresses and logical page addresses of a plurality of pages; and building a global page address linking table of the memory apparatus according to the local page address linking table. |
| US08285967B1 |
Method for on-demand block map generation for direct mapped LUN
This invention is a system and a method for operating a storage server in a data network using a new architecture. The method of creating the partial block map allows the snapshot writes on a direct mapped file. The method of reading data or writing data to the file created in direct mapping state and later converted to partial mapping state responsive to a copy on first write request by a client allocates new indirect block when needed to store the reference to newly allocated data block. The method of reading data from or writing data to the file in partial mapping state involves checking the mapping bit to find if the indirect block is in direct mapping state. |
| US08285962B2 |
Defragmentation method for a machine-readable storage device
A defragmentation method includes the steps of: a) configuring a processor to determine a type of a target machine-readable storage device coupled electrically to the processor; b) configuring the processor to select, from among a plurality of pre-established defragmentation algorithms respectively for performing defragmentation on different types of machine-readable storage devices, a defragmentation algorithm that corresponds to the type of the target machine-readable storage device as determined in step a); and c) configuring the processor to perform defragmentation on the target machine-readable storage device according to the defragmentation algorithm as selected in step b). |
| US08285961B2 |
Dynamic performance virtualization for disk access
A storage control system includes performance monitor logic configured to track performance parameters for different volumes in a storage array. Service level enforcement logic is configured to assign target performance parameters to the different volumes and generate metrics for each of the different volumes identifying how much the performance parameters change for the different volumes responsive to changes in the amounts of tiering media allocated to the different volumes. Resource allocation logic is configured to allocate the tiering media to the different volumes according to the performance parameters, target performance parameters, and metrics for the different volumes. |
| US08285959B2 |
Method for placement of virtual volume hot-spots in storage pools using ongoing load measurements and ranking
The present invention is directed to a method for providing data element placement in a storage system via a Dynamic Storage Tiering (DST) mechanism, such that improved system efficiency is promoted. For example, the DST mechanism may implement an algorithm for providing data element placement. The data elements (ex.—virtual volume hot-spots) may be placed into storage pools, such that usage of higher performing storage pools is maximized. Hot-spots may be detected by dynamically measuring load on LBA ranges. Performance of the storage pools may be measured on an ongoing basis. Further, the hot-spots may be ranked according to load, while storage pools may be ranked according to measured performance. If a hot-spot's load decreases, the hot-spot may be moved to a lower performing storage pool. If a hot-spot's load increases, the hot-spot may be moved to a higher performing storage pool. |
| US08285955B2 |
Method and apparatus for automatic solid state drive performance recovery
A method and apparatus are disclosed for automatic solid state drive performance recovery. A detection module detects a first SSD exceeding a fragmentation threshold. A plurality of drives comprises the first SSD and stores a data copy of data stored on the first SSD. An erase module erases a mapping table for the first SSD. The mapping table maps Logical Block Addresses LBA to physical addresses for the first SSD. A rebuild module rebuilds the data and the mapping table on the first SSD from the data copy. |
| US08285953B2 |
Storage system group
There is a journal area and one or more logical volumes comprising a first logical volume. The journal area is a storage area in which is stored a journal data element, which is a data element that is stored in any storage area of a plurality of storage areas configuring a logical volume, or a data element that is written to the storage area. A controller has a size receiver that receives a write unit size, which is the size of a write data element received from a computer, and a size setting unit that sets the received write unit size in a memory for one or more logical volumes. The size of a journal data element stored in a journal area based on the set write unit size is the write unit size. |
| US08285947B2 |
Store hit load predictor
In one embodiment, a processor implements a store hit load predictor. The store hit load predictor is configured to monitor fetched ops in the processor, and is configured to detect stores that may have previously caused store hit load events. The store hit load predictor is configured to predict that the store will cause a store hit load event again, and is further configured to monitor subsequent fetched ops for the load. The store hit load predictor may locate the load using, e.g., an offset from the store to the load in the code sequence. In response to locating the load, the store hit load predictor may create a dependency of the load on the store, preventing the load from executing out of order with respect to the store. A store hit load event may be avoided in this fashion, at least in some cases. |
| US08285945B2 |
Memories for electronic systems
A switch 100 includes a plurality of ports 101 for exchanging data. A shared memory 102 enables the exchange of data between first and second ones of the ports 101 and includes an array 202 of memory cells arranged as a plurality of rows and a single column having width equal to a predetermined word-width and circuitry 202, 204, 206, 208 for writing selected data presented at the first one of the ports 101 to a selected row in the array as a word of the predetermined word-width during a first time period and for reading the selected data from the selected row as a word of the predetermined wordwidth during a second time period for output at a second one of the ports 101. |
| US08285944B1 |
Read-write control of a FIFO memory with packet discard
A write controller controls writing of packet data to a memory, and a read controller controls reading of packet data from the memory. The write controller signals the read controller if a packet is to be discarded. In response to a discard signal from the write controller, the read controller checks whether it is in the midst of processing the packet to be discarded. If the read controller has yet to process the packet to be discarded, then no corrective action is required. However, if the read controller is in the midst of processing the packet to be discarded, then the read controller adjusts its memory read pointer to point to the position in the memory at which it began reading the packet to be discarded. |
| US08285943B2 |
Storage control apparatus and method of controlling storage control apparatus
The storage control apparatus arranges, in microprocessor packages, management information relating to logical volumes managed by the microprocessor packages. In a predetermined case, each of the management information is rearranged in appropriate places. The management information can be moved, taking into account the difference in the technical properties between a mainframe and an open system host. |
| US08285942B2 |
Region coherence array having hint bits for a clustered shared-memory multiprocessor system
A system and method for a multilevel region coherence protocol for use in Region Coherence Arrays (RCAs) deployed in clustered shared-memory multiprocessor systems which optimize cache-to-cache transfers (interventions) by using region hint bits in each RCA to allow memory requests for lines of a region of the memory to be optimally sent to only a determined portion of the clustered shared-memory multiprocessor system without broadcasting the requests to all processors in the system. A sufficient number of region hint bits are used to uniquely identify each level of the system's interconnect hierarchy to optimally predict which level of the system likely includes a processor that has cached copies of lines of data from the region. |
| US08285941B2 |
Enhancing timeliness of cache prefetching
A system, method, and computer program product for enhancing timeliness of cache memory prefetching in a processing system are provided. The system includes a stride pattern detector to detect a stride pattern for a stride size in an amount of bytes as a difference between successive cache accesses. The system also includes a confidence counter. The system further includes eager prefetching control logic for performing a method when the stride size is less than a cache line size. The method includes adjusting the confidence counter in response to the stride pattern detector detecting the stride pattern, comparing the confidence counter to a confidence threshold, and requesting a cache prefetch in response to the confidence counter reaching the confidence threshold. The system may also include selection logic to select between the eager prefetching control logic and standard stride prefetching control logic. |
| US08285940B2 |
Method and apparatus for high speed cache flushing in a non-volatile memory
An invention is provided for performing flush cache in a non-volatile memory. The invention includes maintaining a plurality of free memory blocks within a non-volatile memory. When a flush cache command is issued, a flush cache map is examined to obtain a memory address of a memory block in the plurality of free memory blocks within the non-volatile memory. The flush cache map includes a plurality of entries, each entry indicating a memory block of the plurality of free memory blocks. Then, a cache block is written to a memory block at the obtained memory address within the non-volatile memory. In this manner, when a flush cache command is received, the flush cache map allows cache blocks to be written to free memory blocks in the non-volatile memory without requiring a non-volatile memory search for free blocks or requiring erasing of memory blocks storing old data. |
| US08285939B2 |
Lateral castout target selection
In response to a data request of a first processing unit among a plurality of processing units, the first processing unit selects a victim cache line to be castout from the lower level cache of the first processing unit and selects the lower level cache of a second of the plurality of processing units as an intended destination of a lateral castout (LCO) command by randomized round-robin selection. The first processing unit issues on the interconnect fabric an LCO command identifying the victim cache line and the intended destination. In response to a coherence response to the LCO command indicating success of the LCO command, the first processing unit removes the victim cache line from its lower level cache, and the victim cache line is held in the lower level cache of one of the plurality of processing units other than the first processing unit. |
| US08285935B2 |
Cache control apparatus and method
A cache control apparatus is provided in a computer system including an access source and a storage apparatus. This device, based on I/O status information, which is information denoting the I/O status in accordance with an I/O command from the access source, determines whether or not the I/O performance from the access source drops. In a case where the result of this determination is affirmative, the cache control apparatus changes a cache utilization status specified from cache utilization status information, which is information denoting the cache utilization status related to a cache area, to a cache utilization status that improves I/O performance. |
| US08285929B2 |
Management computer
The management computer allocates a volume of an external storage device to a host so as to satisfy performance requirements specified from the host. The management computer selects a path that is formed including a first port of the storage device and a second port of the external storage device and that satisfies the performance requirements from the host, and then sets the priority. The management computer sets to the host the use authorization of a primary port and a secondary port that constitute a selected path and the use authorization of a second logical volume. |
| US08285925B1 |
Management of object mapping information corresponding to a distributed storage system
Systems and methods for managing mapping information for objects maintained in a distributed storage system are provided. The distributed storage system can include a keymap subsystem that manages the mapping information according to object keys. Requests for specific object mapping information are directed to specific keymap coordinators within the keymap subsystem. Each keymap coordinator can maintain a cache for caching mapping information maintained at various information sources. To manage the cache, the keymap system can utilize information placeholders that replace previously cached keymap information while a request to modify keymap information is being processed by the information sources. Each keymap coordinator can process subsequently received keymap information read requests in the event an information placeholder is cached as the current cached keymap information. |
| US08285920B2 |
Memory device with dynamic controllable physical logical mapping table loading
An apparatus includes a processor and a memory that includes computer program code. The memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus at least to send information from a host device to a mass storage memory device that is connected with the host device, the information including an indication of at least one default logical address range for a mass memory of the mass storage memory device. The memory and the computer program code are further configured, with the processor, to cause the apparatus, during operation of the host device with the mass storage memory device, and in response to at least one trigger condition being satisfied, to initiate a load of a portion of a logical-physical address conversion table that is stored in a memory of the mass storage memory device to another memory of the mass storage memory device as a local logical-physical address conversion table, where the portion corresponds to the at least one default logical address range. Also disclosed are corresponding methods and computer-readable storage medium, as well as a mass memory device or module that operates and is constructed in accordance with the exemplary embodiments of this invention. |
| US08285919B2 |
SSD with improved bad block management
In some embodiments, a memory controller includes a plurality of processors of a first type and a processor of a second type coupled to the processors of the first type. Each of the plurality of processors of the first type is configured to determine a bad block rate of a memory channel of a solid state memory device to which it is configured to be coupled. The processor of the second type is configured to receive the bad block data rates from each of the plurality of processors of the first type and to report one of a total capacity or a bad block rate of the solid state memory device to a host device. The total capacity and the bad block rate of the solid state memory device are based on the bad block rates received from each of the plurality of processors of the first type. |
| US08285918B2 |
Flash memory cache for data storage device
A storage device made up of multiple storage media is configured such that one such media serves as a cache for data stored on another of such media. The device includes a controller configured to manage the cache by consolidating information concerning obsolete data stored in the cache with information concerning data no longer desired to be stored in the cache, and erase segments of the cache containing one or more of the blocks of obsolete data and the blocks of data that are no longer desired to be stored in the cache to produce reclaimed segments of the cache. |
| US08285916B2 |
Storage device
A storage device, enabling elimination of redundant write operations of non-selected data and enabling optimization of arrangement of pages to a state efficient for rewriting, having two flash memories which can be accessed in parallel, a page register for acquiring data in parallel from the flash memories and temporarily storing the same, and a control circuit having a built-in RAM in which is constructed an address conversion table for managing correspondence between logical addresses and physical addresses in units of data stored in parallel in the page register, wherein data is rewritten by updating of the address conversion table and additional writing into a storage medium. |
| US08285915B2 |
Relocating page tables and data amongst memory modules in a virtualized environment
Relocating data in a virtualized environment maintained by a hypervisor administering access to memory with a Cache Page Table (‘CPT’) and a Physical Page Table (‘PPT’), the CPT and PPT including virtual to physical mappings. Relocating data includes converting the virtual to physical mappings of the CPT to virtual to logical mappings; establishing a Logical Memory Block (‘LMB’) relocation tracker that includes logical addresses of an LMB, source physical addresses of the LMB, target physical addresses of the LMB, a translation block indicator for each relocation granule, and a pin count associated with each relocation granule; establishing a PPT entry tracker including PPT entries corresponding to the LMB to be relocated; relocating the LMB in a number of relocation granules including blocking translations to the relocation granules during relocation; and removing the logical addresses from the LMB relocation tracker. |
| US08285912B2 |
Communication infrastructure for a data processing apparatus and a method of operation of such a communication infrastructure
A communication infrastructure for a data processing apparatus, and a method of operation of such a communication infrastructure are provided. The communication infrastructure provides first and second switching circuits interconnected via a bidirectional link. Both of the switching circuits employ a multi-channel communication protocol, such that for each transaction a communication path is established from an initiating master interface to a target slave interface, with that communication path comprising m channels. The m channels comprise one or more forward channels from the initiating master interface to the target slave interface and one or more reverse channels from the target slave interface to the initiating master interface, and handshaking signals are associated with each of the m channels. The bidirectional link comprises n connection lines, where n is less than m, the bidirectional link supporting a first communication path from the first switching circuit to the second switching circuit and a second communication path in an opposite direction from the second switching circuit to the first switching circuit. Control circuitry is used to multiplex at least one forward channel of the first communication path and at least one reverse channel of the second communication path, with the multiplexing being performed in dependence on the handshaking signals associated with the channels to be multiplexed. This allows the 2m channels formed by the first and second communication paths to be provided by the n connection lines of the bidirectional link. |
| US08285905B2 |
Redundancy configuration and replacement method in a system including a master main unit and slave main units
A single main unit manages information on hardware resources and the like of all main units connected to a network in an integrated fashion. A slot management module, a slot control module, and a physical slot/managed slot comparison table are provided between an input/output control module and a slot interface subordinate thereto. The input/output control module accesses the slot interface by using virtual slot identification information. The slot management module refers to the physical slot/managed slot comparison table, converts the virtual slot identification information into physical slot identification information, and accesses a slot control module corresponding to the physical slot identification information obtained by the conversion, thereby realizing a physical access of the input/output control module to the slot interface. |
| US08285904B2 |
Flexible notification mechanism for user-level interrupts
A method includes delivering a user-level interrupt message indicative of a user-level interrupt to one or more recipients according to a user-level interrupt delivery configuration selected from a plurality of user-level interrupt delivery configurations. The one or more recipients correspond to one or more application threads executing on one or more processor cores of a plurality of processor cores in a multi-core system. A method includes generating an indicator of a user-level interrupt being undeliverable to one or more intended recipients of a user-level interrupt message according to a failed delivery notification mode configuration. The user-level interrupt may be issued by an application thread executing on a first processor core of a plurality of processor cores in a multi-core system. |
| US08285902B2 |
Data transfer apparatus and data transfer method
A data transfer apparatus performing data communication by transmitting a bus use request to an arbiter between a plurality of nodes coupled in a tree shape through a bus is provided. The data transfer apparatus includes a request generation circuit which generates a highest priority request indicating that a priority level for using the bus is the highest, a determination circuit which determines the priority level of the highest priority request, and a priority level setting circuit which determines the highest priority request which takes priority based on a result of the determination circuit when a plurality of highest priority requests conflicts in a node. |
| US08285900B2 |
Method and apparatus for congestion-aware routing in a computer interconnection network
The present disclosure relates to an example of a method for a first router to adaptively determine status within a network. The network may include the first router, a second router and a third router. The method for the first router may comprise determining status information regarding the second router located in the network, and transmitting the status information to the third router located in the network. The second router and the third router may be indirectly coupled to one another. |
| US08285898B2 |
Method and system for compression of files for storage and operation on compressed files
Methods and systems for creating, reading, and writing compressed data for use with a block mode access storage. The compressed data are packed into a plurality of compressed units and stored in a storage logical unit (LU). One or more corresponding compressed units may be read and/or updated with no need of restoring the entire storage logical unit while maintaining a de-fragmented structure of the LU. |
| US08285896B2 |
Data conversion system
A data conversion system for converting data outputted from an information processor into data in a different format in real time while preventing any defect of an image such as frame missing or frame repetition of moving image data by synchronizing data transfer with converted data output. One of first and second nodes on an IEEE1394 bus functions as a cycle master, and first data is transferred from the first node to the second node in synchronism with a cycle start packet outputted from the cycle master. Second data generated by converting the first data by the second node is outputted in synchronism with a reference signal inputted from outside. The system comprises an external synchronizing signal receiving section provided at least in one of the first and second nodes and adapted to receive the reference signal inputted from outside and a synchronism control section for synchronizing the frequency of a cycle start packet outputted from the cycle master with the reference signal received by the external synchronizing signal receiving section. |
| US08285891B2 |
Host device, a point of deployment (POD), and a method of identifying an operation mode
A host device, POD (point of deployment) and a method of identifying an operation mode are disclosed, by which data received via internet can be processed. The present invention includes an interface unit including CD#1, CD#2 , VS1#, VS2#, VPP1, VPP2 and IPDET ports and a controller controlling a mode confirmation signal to be outputted to the POD via the IPDET port, the controller recognizing that the POD supports an IP (internet protocol) card M-mode if the outputted mode confirmation signal is inputted to the VS1# port. |
| US08285887B2 |
Link state detection system for network cable
A link detection system for a network cable is applicable for detecting a connection state of the network cable. If the network cable is connected to the link detection system, the network state detection unit sends a voltage level of a first signal, so as to turn on the power supply of the LAN controller. If the network cable is unplugged, the LAN controller sends a second signal, so as to turn off the power supply of the LAN controller. Alternatively, if the network cable is linked to the network interface in an idle contact state, the network state detection unit sends another voltage level of the first signal, so as to not turn on the power supply of the LAN controller, thereby reducing the power consumption of the personal computer. |
| US08285884B1 |
Data aggregation system and method for deskewing data at selectable data rates
A deskew module of a receiver includes deskew units, each of which includes a data aggregation module for selecting a data rate for receiving symbols of a corresponding data stream. The deskew unit includes a data aggregation module that aggregates a predetermined number of the symbols in one or more clock cycles of a clock signal based on the data rate. The predetermined number of symbols is the same for each data rate selectable by the data aggregation module. The data aggregation module outputs the aggregated symbols to a deskew buffer of the deskew unit in a clock cycle of a clock signal. The deskew buffer deskews symbols received from the data aggregation module and outputs the deskewed symbols. |
| US08285871B2 |
Route calculation system, network management device, route calculation engine, route calculation method and program product
A network management device includes a topology information generation unit which generates topology information of multi-layer network, a link identification information setting unit which sets identification information to identify links of the multi-layer network, a topology information transmission unit which transmits, to a route calculation engine, the topology information of the multi-layer network generated by the topology information generation unit, a shortest route calculation request transmission unit which transmits, to the route calculation engine, a calculation request of a shortest route, a multi-layer restriction checking unit which checks a restriction condition to the shortest route information received from the route calculation engine, based on the identification information of each link set by the link identification information setting unit, and an exception link selection unit which selects an exception link when the shortest route information transmitted from the route calculation engine does not satisfy the restriction condition of the multi-layer, wherein when the shortest route information received from the route calculation engine does not satisfy the restriction condition of the multi-layer, the network management device repeats setting the exception link and transmitting a re-calculation request of the shortest route, until the restriction condition of the multi-layer is satisfied. |
| US08285870B2 |
Systems and methods for statistical resolution of domain name service (DNS) requests
Systems and methods are provided for resolving domain name services (DNS) queries for address information about hosts on a network. The queries are posited from remote users across a satellite or other remote link to a network, and are monitored as they pass through a central node logically present between the remote link and the network. A list of statistically significant hosts on the network is maintained and transmitted from the central node to the plurality of remote users across the remote link. By providing the remote nodes with a current list of popular hosts and associated address information, subsequent domain name services queries placed for the statistically significant hosts may be resolved without communicating across the remote link. |
| US08285868B2 |
Session initiation protocol (SIP) overload protection
A device receives a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) response that includes a load header associated with a downstream Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) device. The device also determines an amount of traffic to send to the downstream Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) device based on the load header. The device further sends the determined amount of traffic to the downstream Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) device. |
| US08285865B2 |
Method for transmitting ACARS messages over IP
A method for transmitting ACARS messages over IP, between a transmitter and a receiver, includes dividing an ACARS message of a first application into a plurality of blocks. For each block of the message, except for the last, a dummy acknowledgment of receipt of the block is locally sent back at the transmitter to the application. When the transmitter receives from the receiver a message indicating proper reception of the plurality of transmitted blocks, the method further includes generating an acknowledgment of receipt of the last block before sending the acknowledgement of receipt back to the application. |
| US08285862B2 |
Multi-protocol network registration and address resolution
The functionality of communications standards and protocols that are application-layer specific are overlaid on an IP-based infrastructure, by employing an IP DNS server as the registration host for IP and other communications standards based and protocol based communications. Communication can occur at either the IP layer or the communications standards or protocol application layer. At the IP layer, a host application can interrogate network nodes. To extend this service to other communications standards or protocol communications, device registration and resolve services are implemented on the DNS server. Similar to the manner in which an IP-based service uses a native, IP-based DNS resolve request, a host can utilize a resolution request against the communications standards and protocol-enabled DNS server for standards and protocol application-layer interrogation of endpoints. |
| US08285860B2 |
Efficient service discovery for peer-to-peer networking devices
Techniques for discovering and/or advertising services are described herein. A first bitmask is received from a remote device over a wireless network, the first bitmask having one or more bits that have a predetermined logical value. Each bit represents a particular service provided by the remote device. A logical operation is performed between the first bitmask and a second bitmask locally generated within a local device, where the second bitmask represents a service being searched by the local device. It is determined whether the remote device is potentially capable of providing the service being searched by the local device based on a result of the logical operation. |
| US08285854B2 |
System and method for establishing and maintaining a voice over internet protocol connection between wireless devices
A system and method for establishing and maintaining a voice over internet protocol connection between wireless devices, in one example embodiment, may comprise a receiving module to receive a communication device identifier, and a request to establish a communication data link to another communication device. The communication device identifier may initially be received by a terminal from the communication device over a wireless data link connecting the communication device and the terminal. Subsequently, the terminal network address may be associated with the terminal, which received the communication device identifier. A processing module may be utilized to determine whether another communication device is reachable over a wireless data link to another terminal based on information stored in a register. Further, a communication module may be utilized to establish the communication data link between one communication device and another communication device subsequent to determining that another communication device is reachable by a terminal over the wireless data link. |
| US08285853B2 |
Message and system for implementing the inter-access of stack members
The present invention discloses a method and system for implementing the inter-access of stack members. Wherein, the method includes: a stack control module assigning stack device numbers and fixed IP addresses for stack members; after a user logs on a stack member, performing a session command for accessing a destination stack member, and initiating an access request to the destination stack member based on the stack device number of the destination stack member; the stack member on which the user logs obtaining the IP address of the destination stack member based on the stack device number in the session command, and forwarding the access request to the destination stack member in the TELNET manner based on the IP address of the destination stack member; after receiving the access request, the destination stack member, as a TELNET server end, assigning a terminal number for the stack member on which the user logs, and informing an operation and maintenance management module of the destination stack member; the operation and maintenance management module sending operation echo information of the destination stack member back to the stack member on which the user logs. |
| US08285851B2 |
Pairing a media server and a media client
A system for use in presenting media content includes a media server configured to provide media content and a media client configured to obtain the media content from the media server and to present the media content on a device. The media client is configured to generate a first code and to transmit information to the media server. The information identifies the media client and the information indicates that the media client is available for pairing. The media server is configured to reply to the information with a second code that corresponds to the first code in order to enable pairing between the media server and the media client. |
| US08285850B1 |
Configuration and dynamic detection of connection-based backup policies
A system and method for managing data transfers between client computers and a computer network. Each client comprises a data transfer controller and at least two data transfer rules. The data transfer controller associates each of at least two connection states with one of the data transfer rules. The data transfer controller also detects a connection state of a client device, applies a first data transfer rule to the client device in response to detecting a first connection state, and applies a second data transfer rule to the client device in response to detecting a second connection state. In a further embodiment, the data transfer controller associates a data transfer policy with attributes of a connection between the client device and the computer network, wherein a connection state comprises a set of values of the attributes of the connection. |
| US08285847B1 |
Method, system, and storage medium for collecting SNMP bandwidth data
A method, system, and storage medium for collecting bandwidth data is provided. The method includes producing master and slave text files in response to simultaneous collection of data samples from a network device by servers. The method also includes generating a clean data file by sorting data in the master and slave text files by the network device port, sorting data samples for the port by collection time, and for each of the samples: adding a designated interval of time to a time on the network device resulting in a target network device time whereby the time on the network device corresponds to a time the data sample was collected, examining data samples in the master and slave text files corresponding to the time the respective data samples were collected, selecting from one of the master and slave text files the sample with a collection time most closely matching the target network device time, and storing the selected sample in the clean data file. |
| US08285846B2 |
System, apparatus and method for associating an anticipated success indication with data delivery
Systems, apparatuses and methods for determining success rates for the transfer and/or utilization of transmitted applications or other communicated services. An intermediary device specifies one or more device attributes of a target device, which are received at a server. The server determines an anticipated success rate for successfully transferring the requested content to the device and/or utilizing the content at the target device, and transfers an indication of the anticipated success rate to the intermediary device. The anticipated success rate indication is received at the intermediary device, which then determines whether the received anticipated success rate indication meets threshold criteria. If so, the intermediary device notifies the server to initiate the transfer of the content from the server to the target device if the threshold criteria is met. |
| US08285845B2 |
Distributed user validation and profile management system
A distributed user validation and profile management system operates to automatically validate and update user profiles, such as those stored within an organizational security database, to properly reflect the actual positions and rights of various users within the organization to the various organizational assets, such as computer implemented applications. The user validation and profile management system periodically sends validation e-mails to various users within the organization to initiate the process of updating and verifying user profile information. The individual users may respond to the validation e-mails to verify their position and status within the organization as well as the position or status of one or more closely associated users, such as a manager or a subordinate. Failure of the user to respond to the validation e-mail causes the user validation and profile management system to determine that the user profile is invalid when the user attempts to access an application. |
| US08285834B2 |
Packet sniffer
A method for sniffing packets communicated over a network includes identifying an active protocol stack. Upon identifying an active protocol stack, a packet intercept is enabled for the identified active protocol stack. Using the packet intercept, data is then collected about the packets communicated over the network. |
| US08285833B2 |
Packet data recording method and system
A data recording system that includes a plurality of network interface cards that may be employed within a single recording device. Each card may be provided with a plurality of network connecting ports to receive packetized data, such as real-time protocol (RTP) streams. For each RTP packet stream being recorded, the system may note the sequence number for the most recently accepted packet and any packet received with a lower sequence number can be readily discarded. The system then may record payload associated with the RTP streams into an audio file saved on a storage device. |
| US08285832B2 |
Method for secure transactions utilizing physically separated computers
A secure transaction method involves establishing an electronically accessible verification site authorized by the holder of a credit or debit card, and accessing the verification site by a merchant to determine whether a request for goods or services is authorized. The request for goods or services is based upon the use of the credit or debit card, but the card is not physically presented. The verification site is an electronic mail account which may be established by the merchant, card holder or other authorized person or entity. An authorization message is preferably sent from the site to the merchant in response to the step of accessing the verification site by the merchant. The verification site may also be wirelessly accessible, enabling an authorization message to be delivered through a cellular telephone, personal digital assistant, or other mobile device. |
| US08285828B2 |
Method and system for platform level data model for indications based event control and data transfer
For a platform level data model for indications based event control and data transfer, a management controller may enable performing indications based management operations that may be based on a management service utilizing CIM Indications model. The management controller may enable communication of indications based messaging and/or data. The indications may be triggered based on events generated and/or triggered in a plurality of managed entities. The events generation may be performed dynamically within the plurality of managed entities, or may be initiated via the management controller. The management controller may enable processing of partially generated indications, via the plurality of managed entities, and/or as pass-through router for full indications processed via the plurality of managed entities. The indications based management operations may also comprise subscription related operations wherein the management controller may enable performing processing of subscription requests, modifications, and/or deletions to facilitate external access via the device. |
| US08285827B1 |
Method and apparatus for resource management with a model-based architecture
A method, and apparatus for software and resource management with a model-based architecture. |
| US08285826B2 |
Grid computing on radiology network
A grid computing system and method is provided for medical data processing. The grid computing system comprises a software infrastructure, and an imaging device capable of interfacing with the software infrastructure over a distributed electronic network. Also included is a plurality of CPUs capable of interfacing with the software infrastructure over the network. The performance of the plurality of CPUs is dependent on balancing load. A large medical dataset is split onto several processing nodes of the plurality of CPUs, respectively, such that performance and power is increased. In the grid computing method, a grid is limited to a nuclear medicine or radiology network. A tight and easy configuration management of computing nodes, and a tight load balancing between standardized nodes are provided. An existing network of CPUs is utilized, such that the greatest benefit is provided at the lowest cost. |
| US08285820B2 |
Dynamic content for online transactions
In one example, a method of providing dynamic content includes providing a client device with access to an online marketplace over a network. The method also includes facilitating transmission of a user identifier stored by the client device to a payment service provider. The method further includes receiving dynamic content from the payment service provider in response to the user identifier. In addition, the method includes serving the dynamic content to the client device over the network. |
| US08285819B2 |
Live media captioning subscription framework for mobile devices
A subscription-based system provides transcribed audio information to one or more mobile devices. Some techniques feature a system for providing subscription services for currently-generated (e.g., not stored) information (e.g., caption information, transcribed audio) for one or more mobile devices for a live/current audio event. There can be a communication network for communicating to the one or more mobile devices, a transcriber configured for transcribing the event to generate information (e.g., caption information, transcribed audio). Caption data includes transcribed data and control code data. The system includes a subscription gateway configured for live/current transfer of the transcribed data to the one or more mobile devices. The subscription gateway is configured to provide access for the transcribed data to the one or more mobile devices. User preferences for subscribers can be set and/or updated by mobile device users and/or GPS-capable mobile devices to receive feeds for the live/current audio event. |
| US08285818B2 |
System and method of recording and accessing multimedia data
The disclosure is directed to a system and method for recording and accessing multimedia data. In a particular embodiment, a method includes determining a first number of requests to record specific multimedia content at a first server supporting a multimedia content distribution service. The first server may be configured to transmit multimedia data to multiple customer premises equipment (CPE). The method may also include recording the specific multimedia content at a second server when the first number of requests is greater than or equal to a threshold. The second server may be configured to transmit the multimedia data to the first server. |
| US08285817B1 |
Migration engine for use in a logical namespace of a storage system environment
A migration engine is provided for use in a logical namespace of a storage system environment. A remote agent of an integrated management framework is installed on a host machine of the storage system environment and includes a pre-installed migration plug-in module that configures the agent as a migration engine adapted to provide a data migration capability. That is, the migration plug-in has the intelligence to configure the remote agent as a migration engine adapted to perform data migration from a source location to a destination location in the storage system environment. |
| US08285806B2 |
Methods and systems for analyzing email messages
Methods and systems for analyzing email messages are provided. In an embodiment, a method includes determining whether a received email message is considered to be the same as one or more prior email messages already classified into one of a plurality of different categories. If the received message is not considered to be the same as one of the prior email messages already classified into one of the categories, then the received message is classified into one of the categories by performing a set of computations. If the received message is considered to be the same as one of the prior email messages already classified into one of the categories, then the received message is classified into one of the categories without performing the computations, by classifying the received message into the same category as a prior email message that the received message is considered to be the same as. |
| US08285804B2 |
Declassifying of suspicious messages
Handling a message comprises: classifying an incoming message for a recipient, storing the classified message and providing a notification to the recipient, wherein the notification includes summary information about the classified message and an interface that allows the recipient to operate on the classified message. |
| US08285803B2 |
Sorting electronic messages using attributes of the sender address
Systems and methods for sorting electronic messages using attributes of senders or of sender addresses. An electronic messaging server sorts electronic messages using attributes associated with the senders or sender addresses of the electronic messages. The sender addresses and associated attributes are stored in an accept list. A sorting module uses the accept list to sort the electronic messages into various folders. The sorting module can also access other data sources, such as a contact list, to assist in sorting the electronic messages. The attributes can be determined independently of the user or can be set directly by the user. The attributes can also identify a status of a sender such as whether the sender is authorized, unauthorized, or unconfirmed. |
| US08285802B2 |
Internet-phone or smart phone with applications for managing and playing digital content, and a mobile device operating system supporting application programming interface
An Internet-Phone as a smart phone may include a touch sensitive screen, an operating system, a graphical user interface, an image acquisition application, a messaging application, a document application, an e-mail application, an Internet browsing application, and an application for playing audio content. The Internet-Phone may provide an application programming interface (API) to support applications. A user of the Internet-Phone can install additional applications. The Internet-Phone may further include one or more wireless communication units with a radio frequency controller compatible to IEEE802.11 and Bluetooth® standards. In some examples, the Internet- Phone may include wireless synchronization of data or software with other wireless devices on a common network. In other examples, the Internet-Phone may include streaming or transferring of digital content to a wireless controller box, a wireless TV, or a wireless printer over the air. Still other examples include connecting the Internet-Phone to a Bluetooth® or IEEE802.11 audio output device. |
| US08285801B2 |
Compressible display of E-mail message string to facilitate readability
A displayed string of emails is effectively compressed for improved readability by deleting some or all headers and/or by skipping the cursor from one message body to another in response to “hot” key actuation(s) by a user. |
| US08285800B2 |
Service model creation using monitored data of the performance management tool
An automated method is provided for constructing or updating a service model that defines the entities in an enterprise's computing environment. The method includes: defining a group of templates for updating the service model, where the group of templates identify different types of entities which comprise the service model and relationships between the types of entities including an entity that links software applications to respective computing infrastructure that supports the software applications; monitoring messages received from monitoring tools residing in the computing environment; and updating a service model in accordance with the group of templates using data encapsulated in the messages. |
| US08285799B2 |
Quota-based archiving
A determination of whether to archive email messages in a user mailbox is made each time an email message is received at a server computer. A storage quota, a first threshold and a second threshold are obtained for the user mailbox. The first threshold is a first percentage of the storage quota. The second threshold is a second percentage of the storage quota. When it is determined that the size of the received email message plus the current size of the user mailbox exceeds the first threshold for the user mailbox, one or more email messages in the user mailbox are archived. The archiving of the one or more email messages reduces the current size of the user mailbox such that the current size of the user mailbox becomes less than the number of bytes corresponding to the second threshold for the user mailbox. |
| US08285798B2 |
System and method for the management of message policy
A highly advantageous message policy management system and method are disclosed for managing email message flow with a sender set of policies which recommend actions to be taken by receivers based on characteristics of the email message. |
| US08285797B2 |
Technique for controlling device management response messages
A device for use in a communication system and a method for its operation are provided. The method of operating a Device Management (DM) client of a device in a communication system includes receiving an out-of-band DM message from a DM server, determining if out-of-band message response (OOBMsgResponse) reporting is inhibited based on an OOBMsgResponse node in a Management Object (MO), and if it is determined that OOBMsgResponse reporting is not inhibited, sending a response message in response to the out-of-band DM message received from the DM server. |
| US08285794B2 |
Signature e-mail attachment printing
A method and system for organizing printed documents associated with an e-mail message wherein each of the printed documents may be separated by a printer header page reflecting some or all of the signature information included with the e-mail message from which the printed documents originate. |
| US08285791B2 |
Method and apparatus for sharing information using a handheld device
A method and apparatus for sending information to a data processing apparatus for identifying a document to share with a recipient. A handheld device is capable of communicating with the data processing apparatus. Information is captured from the document and stored in the handheld device as document data. A communications path is established between the handheld device and the data processing apparatus. The document data is sent to the data processing apparatus through the communications path. Reference documents are provided. Each reference document has reference data stored in a memory. At least a portion of the received document data is extracted as scanning data. The reference data is retrieved from the memory. The scanning data is compared with the reference data. When the scanning data matches at least a portion of the reference data of one of the reference documents, the one reference document is selected as the identified document for forwarding to the recipient. |
| US08285787B2 |
Systems and methods for managing a collaboration space having application hosting capabilities
Embodiments relate to systems and methods for managing a collaboration space having application hosting capabilities. A collaboration space, such as a wiki site, can host a set of collaboration tools and resources, including, for example, content tools, communication tools, and other resources for the users of the space. The collaboration space can also incorporate a set of executable application resources, such as application programming tools to permit users to program, invoke, and execute applications directly from the wiki site or other collaboration space. The set of executable application resources can in turn be embedded or incorporated in a Web framework, for instance to permit the set of hosted applications to be served/run to remote clients as Web applications. Applications generated outside the collaboration space can in embodiments be migrated into the collaboration space and hosted and/or executed from within the collaboration space, even if not originally generated there. |
| US08285782B2 |
Methods and apparatus for making a hypermedium interactive
The present disclosure is directed to a system and method of making a hypermedium page interactive. Responsive to a user selecting a hyperlink on a hypermedium page displayed on a client node, a client agent located on the client node establishes a communications link from the client agent to an application execution server agent on an application server using information located in a hyperlink configuration file, corresponding to the hyperlink displayed on the client node, obtained from the network server node. Responsive to the creation of the communications link between the application execution server agent and the client agent, the application executes on the application execution server and the user is capable of interactively using the application running on the application execution node from the client node. Data input and display occurs at the client node under the control of the client agent. |
| US08285781B1 |
Reduction of perceived DNS lookup latency
Perceived domain name service (DNS) lookup latency can be reduced for the user of a browser program. A server determines domain names that the user is likely to request in the future. In one implementation, a list of these domain names is transmitted to the browser program as a separate command. The browser program may then lookup up the domain names in the background before the user selects a link corresponding to the domain names. In another implementation, the domain names are transmitted to the browser program by embedding the domain names in a web document, in which the embedded information is not visible in the rendered version of the web document. |
| US08285780B2 |
State sharing in a distributed data stream processing system
State sharing is facilitated in stream processing environments, including distributed stream processing environments. A customized shared state implementation representing the state to be shared is automatically created based on at least one of user preferences, hints of usage, and system performance. |
| US08285779B2 |
Programmable presence virtualization
Techniques for supporting a presence virtualization query are provided. The techniques include receiving a virtual query from a client, the virtual query specified in terms of a membership set of members, wherein the membership set comprises a list of presentity uniform resource identifiers (URIs) and a separate transformation function, defined over a set of presence documents of the members in the membership set, redirecting the query to a destination virtual presentity URI whose presence state comprises an aggregation of the presence documents of the list of URIs in the membership set and a corresponding query element (QE) object that manages subscriptions for the URI, adding the client as a watcher for the destination virtual presentity URI, and applying transformation logic specified by the watcher client and notifying a corresponding client of a resulting output. |
| US08285775B2 |
Expedited transaction failure handling by leveraging a reliable message transport protocol to assist detection of discarded processing
A method and system for immediate failure checking for lost message processing comprises receiving a first message of a web-service transaction comprising first message sequence information at a computing device in a transaction environment of a target web service, storing a first record of the first message within the computing device, receiving a subsequent message comprising corresponding message sequence information at the computing device, storing a second record of the subsequent message within the computing device, comparing the first message sequence information with the subsequent message sequence information using the computing device, identifying a transaction error using the computing device, if the subsequent message is not an initial message in a sequence of messages based on the comparing, reporting the transaction error from the computing device, and aborting processing of the web-service transaction if the transaction error has occurred, using the computing device. |
| US08285774B2 |
Operation method and apparatus for performing overlap filter and core transform
A hardware implementation method for concurrently realizing overlap filter and core transform and an operation method thereof are provided. The overlap filter and core transform can be adjusted according to different specifications, processes, and operation frequencies. The hardware implementation method and the operation method thereof adopt a transform-level hardware sharing architecture and multi-port input/output register array, thereby efficiently realizing overlap filter and core transform. |
| US08285772B2 |
Order adaptive finite impulse response filter and operating method thereof
A device for allocating a number of taps of a designated finite impulse response filter is disclosed. The device comprises a plurality of designated finite impulse response filters having fixed number of taps, a plurality of allocation finite impulse response filters having fixed number of taps, a control unit and an estimate unit. Depending on intensities of responses to interferences, at least one of the allocation FIR filters may be coupled in series to any one of the designated finite impulse response filters, thereby to provide a signal having excellent quality. |
| US08285764B2 |
System and method for statistically separating and characterizing noise which is added to a signal of a machine or a system
Method for finding the probability density function type and the variance properties of the noise component N of a raw signal S of a machine or a system, said raw signal S being combined of a pure signal component P and said noise component N, the method comprising: (a) defining a window within said raw signal; (b) recording the raw signal S; (c) numerically differentiating the raw signal S within the range of said window at least a number of times m to obtain an m order differentiated signal; (d) finding a histogram that best fits the m order differentiated signal; (e) finding a probability density function type that fits the distribution of the histogram; (f) determining the variance of the histogram, said histogram variance being essentially the m order variance σ2(m) of the noise component N; and (g) knowing the histogram distribution type, and the m order variance σ2(m) of the histogram, transforming the m order variance σ2(m) to the zero order variance σ2(0), σ2(0) being the variance of the pdf of the noise component N, and wherein the histogram type as found in step (e) being the probability density function type of the noise component N. |
| US08285762B2 |
Migration of metadata and storage management of data in a first storage environment to a second storage environment
Provided are a computer program product, method, and system for migration of metadata and storage management of data in a first storage environment to a second storage environment. A migration request is processed to migrate metadata and storage management of data in a first storage environment to a second storage environment, wherein the first storage environment has a first storage server, a first storage media, and first metadata describing first data objects stored in the first storage media, and wherein the second storage environment has a second storage server, a second storage media, and second metadata for second data objects stored in the second storage media. The first metadata is copied to the second storage environment to incorporate with the second metadata. The first metadata incorporated into the second metadata is modified to indicate first server information used by the second server to communicate with the first server to access the migrated data from the first storage media. The migration request is completed in response to incorporating the first metadata into the second metadata, wherein the first data objects remain in the first storage media after completing the migration request. |
| US08285758B1 |
Tiering storage between multiple classes of storage on the same container file system
Storage tiering uses file system awareness of storage class for storage allocation or migration of a storage object from one class of storage to another. For example, the storage object is a production file system, a logical unit number (LUN) of storage, or a snapshot copy of the production file system or LUN. Each storage class may comprise a different back-end disk type, such as Fiber Channel, ATA, etc. Storage allocation or migration is based on storage class to implement a storage policy, such as: (a) move snapshots off the class of storage of the production object and onto a different class of storage; (b) direct new writes to a specified class of storage; or (c) writes targeting a particular storage object are targeted to a particular class of storage. |
| US08285755B2 |
Partial updating in a database proxy driver
Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to programmatic database access and provide a method, system and computer program product for programmatic partial updating of a row. In one embodiment, a data processing system for programmatic partial updating of a row in a database can include a database proxy driver configured to expose an interface for interacting with the database and to accept an execution of a prepared statement without requiring set values for all fields bound by the prepared statement. The interface can include, for example, a Java Database Connectivity (JDBC) compliant interface. The prepared statement can include a binding to multiple fields in a designated row and a set of setter methods defined for a subset of the multiple fields. |
| US08285752B1 |
System and method for maintaining a plurality of summary levels in a single table
A system, method, and computer-accessible medium are disclosed for maintaining data at a plurality of summary levels in a single table. Data may be summarized into a plurality of summary levels. Each of the summary levels may comprise summarized data over a respective one of a plurality of intervals of time. The plurality of summary levels may vary in granularity of the summarized data. The summarized data in the plurality of summary levels may be stored in a single table in a database. |
| US08285750B2 |
Computer-based system and method for generating, classifying, searching, and analyzing standardized text templates and deviations from standardized text templates
A method for generating, classifying, searching, and analyzing standardized text templates drawn from a plurality of text documents and for identifying standardized text deviations from standardized text templates. Semi-standardized documents may be represented as standardized templates and deviations from standardized templates, with such templates themselves automatically generated by a computer-implemented method from a plurality of similar text documents. The method enables enhanced analysis of semi-standardized documents and automatic extraction of information from standardized text templates. |
| US08285747B1 |
Incorporation of client storage into a storage system
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an apparatus and methods for operating a storage system. The storage system incorporates a storage device associated with a client into a logical group of storage devices managed by the storage system. Thereafter, the storage system is capable of satisfying data access requests from an incorporated storage device managed by the storage system. |
| US08285742B2 |
Management of attribute information related to system resources
An information processing apparatus that manages resource information which is information related to resources constituting a system, includes: a first condition setting section that sets first conditions which are predetermined conditions between given resource information and other resource information; a first condition extraction section that extracts, from the first conditions set by the first condition setting section, a first condition set to resource information, on which changed information that is information indicating a change to the resource information is based; and a first condition determination section that determines whether the changed information satisfies the first condition extracted by the first condition extraction section. |
| US08285737B1 |
Selecting content for publication
Among other disclosed subject matter, a computer-implemented method relating to selecting content for publication includes receiving a term to be used in selecting content for publication. The method includes obtaining information from a record using the received term, the information reflecting a correspondence between contents in a repository and the received term. The method includes determining, using at least the obtained information, a query to be performed on the repository for selecting at least part of the content. |
| US08285735B2 |
System and method for creating metadata
A system and a method create metadata for media files. The metadata may be information relating to, based on and/or associated with the media files. The metadata of the media files may be searched by one or more terminals. An event database connectable to a terminal may use a location, a date and/or a time of creation of the media files to associate specific events with the media files. Further, the specific events may be used by the database to create keywords associated with the media files. As a result, the system and the method may organize and/or may provide searching for media files. A web page may be generated for an event that accumulates the media files related to the event. |
| US08285732B2 |
Method and system for providing themes for software applications
A method includes providing a plurality of services to a user by a software application, each service having a plurality of service parameters and being capable of displaying a plurality of data to the user. The method also includes providing a data theme selection to the user, the data theme selection including selecting a data theme from among a plurality of available data themes. The method also includes setting, for each data theme parameter of the selected data theme, the service parameters associated with and according to that data theme parameter. The method also includes filtering, for each of the plurality of services, the display of the plurality of data as a function of the at least one associated data property according to the service parameters of that service as set by the selected data theme. |
| US08285729B2 |
Reducing overheads in application processing
A method, a system and a computer program of reducing overheads in multiple applications processing are disclosed. The method includes identifying resources interacting with each of the applications from a set of applications and grouping the applications from the set of applications, resulting in at least one application cluster, in response to the identified resources. The method further includes assigning an agent corresponding to each of the identified resources and initializing the agent corresponding to each of the identified resources. The method further includes identifying parameters associated with the identified resources, pre-processing the identified parameters for each of the identified resources, and also includes selecting a clustering means for the clustering. The method further includes computing the application clusters using the selected clustering means and the identified parameters, and also includes sharing the agents corresponding to each of the identified resources interacting with the applications in the at least one application cluster. Also disclosed are a system and a computer program for reducing overheads in multiple applications processing. |
| US08285728B1 |
Knowledge discovery and dissemination of text by mining with words
The present invention enables the construction and deployment of semantic search engines, which learn. Here, the learning necessarily occurs in unsupervised mode given the huge amount of text being searched and the resultant impracticality of providing human feedback. That is, it acquires a lexicon of synonyms and the context for their proper application by searching a moving window of text and compiling the results. No human operator is involved. This allows for the practical search, using machine learning techniques, of very large textual bases. |
| US08285726B2 |
Presenting media guidance search results based on relevancy
Systems and methods for presenting search results based on relevancy in an interactive media guidance application are disclosed. After performing a user-initiated or automatic search for media content, the interactive media guidance application determines which of the hits are most relevant to the user. The guidance application then displays, or visually identifies, the relevant items. Some embodiments employ using different display arrangements based on the number of relevant items. Some embodiments display the relevant items in recommendation lists or hot lists. |
| US08285725B2 |
System and method for identifying entity representations based on a search query using field match templates
Disclosed is a system for, and method of, identifying a universal entity representation in an electronic universal database that corresponds to a foreign entity representation in an electronic foreign database, each entity representation including a plurality of linked records, each record including a plurality of fields, each field capable of containing a field value, each field value associated with a field value weight. |
| US08285723B2 |
System and method for indexing documents and retrieving similar document based on link transition count distance calculations
In an index generating device, a similarity calculating unit calculates access similarities indicating similarities of access histories between documents, based on history information indicating the access histories to the respective documents by users, and a similar document specifying unit specifies a similar document similar to a given document as a retrieval target, based on the access similarities or the like. A retrieval index generating unit generates a retrieval index for the given document as the retrieval target from words appearing in a document set consisting of the similar document and the given document as the retrieval target. |
| US08285718B1 |
Clustering multimedia search
A method for clustering a set of web search results is disclosed. A first signature is compared based at least in part on an analysis of multimedia content associated with a first web search result with a second signature based at least in part on an analysis of multimedia content associated with a second web search result. The first web search result is clustered with the second web search result based at least in part on the comparison of the first signature with the second signature. |
| US08285716B1 |
Identifying and ranking digital resources relating to places
Methods, apparatuses, and systems for identifying and ranking digital resources relating to places. A keyword included in a search query that is received, is determined to be a name of a place. A database of names of distinct places that uniquely identifies distinct places that have a same name is searched. It is determined that the database associates the keyword with a first and a second place. First and second resources, determined to be relevant to the first and the second place, respectively, are identified from the database. In response to receiving the search query, search results directed to the first place and separate search results directed to the second place are provided. The search results include one or more links to the provided one or more resources. |
| US08285712B2 |
Contact query data system and method
A processor-implemented method of operating a mobile communication device operable to execute one or more communication applications includes issuing a query for contact data over a communication network, creating a contact resolution object, receiving contact data responsive to the query over the communication network, the contact data comprising communication contact data for the one or more communication applications, associating the contact data received with the contact resolution object, and resolving the contact resolution object to select communication contact data. |
| US08285702B2 |
Content analysis simulator for improving site findability in information retrieval systems
A system and method including a simulator operating in conjunction with a search-engine, for improving document and site findability. Users input their content (pages or sites) and the simulator will analyze the site in terms of structure and content. It will then give the user a ranked list of suggestions about how the user might improve his/her site's findability. The user will then be able to apply some or all of these suggestions, or any other changes, by virtually modifying the site, and then immediately receive feedback both on how the pages look and a sense of the degree of findability improvement. The interactive process allows users to simulate modifications in their site structure and content in order to improve its findability. When the user completes the modifications and is satisfied with the new findability of his site, the user will be able then to replace his/her current site in the repository with the modified one. |
| US08285699B2 |
Generating search result summaries
Embodiments are configured to provide a summary of information associated with one or more search results. In an embodiment, a system includes a summary generator that can be configured to provide a summary of information including one or more snippets associated with a search term or search terms. The system includes a ranking component that can be used to rank snippets and the ranked snippets can be used when generating a summary that includes one or more ranked snippets. In one embodiment, the system can be configured to include one or more filters that can be used to filter snippets and the filtered snippets can be used when generating a summary. Other embodiments are available. |
| US08285698B2 |
Securing search queries
In general, the present invention protects actual search queries submitted to web search engines using a set (i.e., at least one) of supplemental queries (hereinafter referred to as securing search queries). As a result, collections of search queries will not form statistically stable categories, and will not disclose the search subject. Any hits resulting from securing search queries will be filtered from results that are returned to the requestor. In addition, the securing search queries can be associated with protective Internet Protocol addresses to reduce the possibility of the requestor of the actual search query to be identified. |
| US08285695B2 |
Catalog page generation system, digital camera, computer program product, and method for catalog page generation
A catalog page generation system, comprising a first generation circuit, a first determination circuit, and a second generation circuit, is provided. The first generation circuit generates a catalog page of objects included in a first directory or a first folder. The first determination circuit determines whether or not a second directory different from the first directory or a second folder different from the first folder exists. The second generation circuit generates existence information if the first determination circuit determines that the second directory or the second folder exists. The existence information indicates the existence of another directory or another folder of the same level as the first directory or the first folder. |
| US08285694B1 |
Distribution of enterprise related alerts via the emergency alert system
Enterprise related alert messages are distributed via the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The enterprise community (e.g., a company, a business, or a firm, a school, a corporation, a department of transportation, a law enforcement agency, commuter service, or the like) is provide the ability to distribute enterprise related information via the EAS. Enterprise related alerts can be generated automatically, semi-automatically, and/or manually. Enterprise related alerts can be used to notify TV and radio broadcasters. |
| US08285691B2 |
Binary method for locating data rows in a compressed data block
A system and method is provided for locating one or more compressed data rows in a data block. A 16 byte “row map” may be added at the end of each compressed data block. The row map may provide seven binary address points in the compressed data block (i.e., by dividing the compressed data block into 8ths). |
| US08285690B2 |
Storage system for eliminating duplicated data
A storage system 103 carries out first and second de-duplication processes in response to receiving a write request from a client. First, a determination is made as to whether a write target data item overlaps with any of the stored data items of a part of a stored data item group, which is a user data item group stored in a storage device 209, and if so, the write target data item is prevented from being stored in the storage device. Second, a determination is made as to whether a target stored data item, which is not finished being evaluated as to whether it overlaps with the stored data item in the first de-duplication process, overlaps with another stored data item, and if so, the target stored data item or the same data item overlapping with the target stored data item is deleted from the storage device 209. |
| US08285689B2 |
Distributed file system and data block consistency managing method thereof
A distributed file system and a data block consistency managing method thereof are disclosed. The method comprises: a file location register generates the values of the counters corresponding to CHUNKs and the values of the counters are simultaneously stored in file access servers and a file location register; when writing data into a CHUNK, a file access client writes data into both the main and standby file access servers and revises the values of counters of CHUNKs in the file access servers into which data is written normally; the file location register takes the CHUNK whose counter has the maximal value as the normal and valid one according to the corresponding values of the counters of corresponding CHUNK reported by the main and standby file access servers. |
| US08285688B2 |
Versioning in an integration platform
A repository contains multiple versions of an object but only a single version of the object is supplied when a query is made. The single version is automatically selected from among a number of versions, based on a configuration associated with a workspace in which the query originates. The selected version is presented in a version resolved view, without exposing any information related to versioning of the object. A number of configurations are established, each configuration containing no more than one version of each object in the repository. However, only one configuration is associated with each workspace from which a query can originate. A single configuration is commonly associated with the workspaces of all developers. When developers decide that a set of objects in the repository is ready for use in live operation, the set of objects is “deployed” by copying the design time configuration to generate a new configuration. |
| US08285686B2 |
Executing prioritized replication requests for objects in a distributed storage system
A system and method for executing replication requests for objects in a distributed storage system is provided. A replication queue is identified from a plurality of replication queues corresponding to a replication key. The replication key includes information related to at least a source storage device in a distributed storage system at which objects are located and a destination storage device in the distributed storage system to which the objects are to be replicated. A distributed database is scanned using an identifier of the replication queue to produce a list of replication requests corresponding to the replication queue. The records of the distributed database are distributed across a plurality of nodes of the distributed database. The replication requests in the list of replication requests are executed in priority order. Replication requests are deleted from the distributed database only when the replication requests are complete. |
| US08285683B2 |
System and method for storing redundant information
A method and system for reducing storage requirements and speeding up storage operations by reducing the storage of redundant data includes receiving a request that identifies one or more data objects to which to apply a storage operation. For each data object, the storage system determines if the data object contains data that matches another data object to which the storage operation was previously applied. If the data objects do not match, then the storage system performs the storage operation in a usual manner. However, if the data objects do match, then the storage system may avoid performing the storage operation. |
| US08285682B2 |
Techniques for establishing a file system that exposes a virtual file system for backup operations
Techniques for establishing a files system that exposes a virtual file system for backup operations are presented. Changes to files of a file system are maintained separately or collected and presented as a VFS. The VFS is then used to perform backup operations. Moreover, the files identified in the VFS can be customized based on search parameters, criterion, and/or criteria supplied by a user or supplied as parameters to backup and VFS mount operations. |
| US08285680B2 |
Individual object restore
A method for restoring an object comprises receiving a request to restore an object. Also, the method includes outputting a representation of available backup files and receiving a selection of at least one of the available backup files. Further, the method comprises restoring at least one of the selected backup files into a temporary location and mounting at least one of the restored backup files as a server. In addition, the method includes outputting a representation of available objects from the server and receiving a selection of at least one of the available objects to be restored from the server. Also, the method includes copying one or more selected objects from the server into an Active Directory. |
| US08285676B2 |
Containment agnostic, N-ary roots leveraged model synchronization
A technique for annotating and synchronizing on a device is provided. A client root model of fragments is marked with annotations in response to triggers received by an application of the device. Marking the client root model of the fragments with annotations includes at least: in response to the any of the fragments being extracted out and flagged, marking the client root model with annotations; in response to binding any of the fragments to a source, marking the client root model of the fragments with annotations and marking the client root model as flagged; and in response to sharing in any the of fragments, marking the client root model with annotations. |
| US08285670B2 |
Dynamically maintaining coherency within live ranges of direct buffers
Reducing coherency problems in a data processing system is provided. Source code that is to be compiled is received and analyzed to identify at least one of a plurality of loops that contain a memory reference. A determination is made as to whether the memory reference is an access to a global memory that should be handled by a direct buffer. Responsive to an indication that the memory reference is an access to the global memory that should be handled by the direct buffer, the memory reference is marked for direct buffer transformation. The direct buffer transformation is then applied to the memory reference. |
| US08285668B2 |
Building a knowledgebase of associated time-based events
Technologies are described herein for building a knowledgebase of associated time-based events and displaying the associations between the events to a user. A chronology knowledgebase application is implemented that maintains a knowledgebase of facts and events that captures both the details of each event and the associations between them. The associated events can be readily retrieved by users of the chronology knowledgebase application and displayed in a way that makes apparent the temporal and causal relationship between the associated events. |
| US08285664B2 |
Semantic network with selective indexing
Indexing overhead in a semantic network is reduced by omitting some links from indexes in semantic network elements in response to one or more omission rules. Inference strategy over the semantic network is modified to prioritize inference strategies in such a way that the impact of the omissions on inference results is minimized. |
| US08285658B1 |
Account sharing detection
Apparatus and methods are described for detecting sharing of electronic or online accounts based on grouping of data samples that include keyboard input timing factors and optionally secondary factors. The data samples can be received from various computers having various keyboards of a certain type and may be input by more than one user. The data samples are grouped based on distances and ratios of mathematical combinations of distances between input timing of key events such as dwell and flight time, as well as optionally based on at least one secondary factor related to the keyboard input timing factors. Example secondary factors include a time of day of the input; and/or a machine identification, location, and IP address of the computer used to input the sample. |
| US08285657B2 |
Mobile brain-based device having a simulated nervous system based on the hippocampus
A brain-based device (BBD) having a physical mobile device NOMAD controlling and under control by a simulated nervous system. The simulated nervous system is based on an intricate anatomy and physiology of the hippocampus and its surrounding neuronal regions including the cortex. The BBD integrates spatial signals from numerous objects in time and provides flexible navigation solutions to aid in the exploration of unknown environments. As NOMAD navigates in its real world environment, the hippocampus of the simulated nervous system organizes multi-modal input information received from sensors on NOMAD over timescales and uses this organization for the development of spatial and episodic memories necessary for navigation. |
| US08285656B1 |
Systems and methods for data verification
Embodiments are directed to data verification of business or consumer data. Certain embodiments include a data verification system that receives or selects data to be verified, selects one or more verification methods to verify, update, and/or append/enhance the data. The data verification system may verify the data with one or more data verification methods, either alone or in combination. The methods may include a web-crawling verification method, an agent web verification method, a call verification method, a direct mail method, an email method, an in-person verification method, or other methods. The system has the ability to, automatically or manually, (1) blend automatic and manual segmentation of records or elements by criteria such as industry type, best times of day/month/year to verify, update, or append, cost, and level of importance (2) select the best verification processing method(s), and (3) manage the results and properly verify, update, append/enhance records. |
| US08285653B2 |
Systems and methods for generating random feasible solutions for an evolutionary process
Systems and methods may include identifying an input population of parent chromosome data structures, where each parent chromosome data structure provides a plurality of genes representative of variables in which associated values are permitted to evolve; selecting pairs of parent chromosome data structures from the input population of parent chromosome data structures; combining genes of each selected pair of parent chromosome data structures according to at least one evolutionary operator to generate a plurality of child chromosome data structures; evaluating the plurality of child chromosome data structures according to a plurality of constraint functions to generate a respective plurality of constraint function values for each child chromosome data structure, where the constraint functions define constraints on a feasible solution set; determining whether any of the plurality of child chromosome data structures are within the feasible solution set based upon the respective plurality of constraint violation function values. |
| US08285652B2 |
Virtual robot integration with search
An arrangement for virtually integrating a bot with a search functionality provided by an online search engine enables users of personal computers (“PCs”), mobile phones, and other devices to locate bot content in response to their search queries. The virtual integration enables bot content to be surfaced via the search engine. In response to a query, the search engine may return search results including links to one or more bots that are located on a presence-based network. When the user clicks on a link, a client application is launched on the PC or device that enables the user to converse with the bot using a natural language interface. The virtual integration also provides the bot with context of the user's last known query, or the query history. The bot can then start the conversation at a specific point within the bot's content hierarchy to respond to and answer the user's query. |
| US08285647B2 |
Maintaining privacy for transactions performable by a user device having a security module
The present invention discloses a method and system for maintaining privacy for transactions performable by a user device having a security module with a privacy certification authority and a verifier. The system comprises an issuer providing an issuer public key PKI; a user device having a security module for generating a first set of attestation-signature values DAA1; a privacy certification authority computer for providing an authority public key PKPCA and issuing second attestation values AV2; and a verification computer for checking the validity of the first set of attestation signature values DAA1 with the issuer public key PKI and the validity of a second set of attestation-signature values DAA2 with the authority public key PKPCA, the second set of attestation-signature values DAA2 being derivable by the user device 20 from the second attestation values AV2, wherein it is verifiable that the two sets of attestation-signature values DAA1, DAA2 relate to the user device. |
| US08285646B2 |
Centralized licensing services
Methods and devices are provided for central management of licenses, particularly those relating to wagering games. A license proxy deployed in and/or dedicated to a gaming establishment may operate under the control of a central licensing manager controlled by another entity, e.g., by a game provider. The license proxy may receive requests to enable features of an electronic gaming machine of the gaming establishment (e.g., game themes, player tracking features and/or peripheral device features) and determine, based on information provided by the central licensing manager, whether to grant such requests. The license proxy may also process requests to enable features of other devices in a gaming establishment, such as server-based features. |
| US08285636B2 |
Methods of monitoring behavior/activity of an individual associated with an organization
A cooperative arrangement and method to monitor behaviors and other activities by an individual in an organization are disclosed. A personal financial disclosure statement, personal financial records, and other relevant financial data associated with an individual who is associated with, or to be associated with, the organization are obtained. Information is extracted from the personal financial disclosure statement, the personal financial records, and the other relevant financial data and input into a risk assessment algorithm. The risk assessment algorithm operates on the input information and generates risk assessment data. The risk assessment data is evaluated to make a determination of certification with respect to the individual. A decision to certify means that the risk associated with the individual, with respect to committing fraud or some other improper act with respect to the organization, is acceptable. Risk assessment data on a plurality of key individuals within the organization may be generated and evaluated to make a determination of certification with respect to the organization as a whole. |
| US08285634B2 |
System and method for facilitating unified trading and control for a sponsoring organization's money management process
An embodiment of the present invention provides a system, method, process, software and standards that enable a unified trading and control process utilized by sponsoring organizations and asset managers (money managers) for sub advised or externally managed investment portfolios as to increase control over the trading process by a sponsoring organization, enhance regulatory compliance, substantially lower trading costs and improve investment performance on a recurring basis for the shareholders and beneficiaries investing in registered and non registered mutual funds and institutional investment portfolios. |
| US08285633B2 |
System and method for direct client access for management of securities transactions
A computer implemented system and method provides for transmission of a parent shell order of which no portion is placed for execution until a respective child order is obtained. The shell order can be received from a device of an exchange member on behalf of a member's customer and the child orders can be received directly from a device operated by the customer. |
| US08285632B2 |
Method and apparatus for on-line prediction of product concept success
A method, network entity and computer program product are provided for conducting a prediction market to test product concepts. In particular, an interface may be provided from which a user may select one or more markets in which the user would like to participate in a prediction market. Information associated with each of a group of product concepts falling within one of the selected markets, including a stock price, may be retrieved and displayed to the user. The user may indicate a number of shares he or she would like to purchase in at least one of the product concepts, and the stock price associated with each of the product concepts may be adjusted based on the number of shares purchased. A report may be generated and transmitted to a merchant associated with the product concepts being tested, wherein the report may include a volume weighted average price associated with each product concept. |
| US08285631B2 |
Method and system for structuring the ownership of an investment
A method of structuring ownership of an invention including the steps of receiving an investment commitment and a capital contribution from at least one investor, investing the capital contribution in a portfolio company, assigning a set of securities to the at least one investor based upon the capital contribution, the set of securities comprising a plurality of strips, and providing one or more of the plurality of strips to the at least one investor, wherein each of the plurality of strips is defined as a portion of the capital contribution and wherein at least one of the strips is dedicated for donation by the investor to at least one charity. |
| US08285630B2 |
Computer-implemented systems and methods for blotter synchronization
Computer-implemented systems and methods are disclosed for synchronizing securities order information between an order management system and liquidity source computer systems. An order management system generates a securities order and communicates it to a blotter synchronization module. The blotter synchronization module communicates with liquidity source computer systems to indicate that the securities order is open for execution, and the liquidity source computer systems may respond to request permission to execute the securities order. The blotter synchronization module determines whether to select one of the liquidity source computer systems to execute the securities order. |
| US08285629B2 |
Trading system products and processes
A trading platform and trading method that allows access to additional pools of liquidity is described. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08285620B1 |
Methods and systems for building and managing portfolios based on ordinal ranks of securities
A system, method, and computer-readable medium are provided for managing a portfolio using financial instrument rankings. A processor determines portfolio weights for financial instruments based on a ranking associated with each instrument, a cutoff rank, and a risk multiplier. |
| US08285619B2 |
Stock market prediction using natural language processing
A method of using natural language processing (NLP) techniques to extract information from online news feeds and then using the information so extracted to predict changes in stock prices or volatilities. These predictions can be used to make profitable trading strategies. Company names can be recognized and simple templates describing company actions can be automatically filled using parsing or pattern matching on words in or near the sentence containing the company name. These templates can be clustered into groups which are statistically correlated with changes in the stock prices. The system is composed of two parts: message understanding component that automatically fills in simple templates and a statistical correlation component that tests the correlation of these patterns to increases or decreases in the stock price. The methods can be applied to a broad range of text, including articles in online newspapers such as the Wall Street Journal, financial newsletters, radio &TV transcripts and annual reports. In an enhanced embodiment of the system statistical patterns in Internet usage data and Internet data such as newly released textual information on Web pages are further leveraged. |
| US08285607B2 |
System and method for pharmaceutical management and tracking
A product inventory management system including a cabinet configured to contain an inventory of product units having RFID tags and further configured to monitor the inventory by wirelessly detecting the RFID tags, and a server system configured to communicate over a network with the cabinet, the server system capable of managing the inventory of the cabinet. There is also a method for product inventory management, including receiving, in a server system and via a network, inventory data from a cabinet, the inventory data corresponding to an inventory of product units stored in the cabinet, and generating an order to have additional product units added to the cabinet according to the cabinet inventory. |
| US08285604B1 |
Methods and systems for receipt management and price comparison
The present invention relates to shopping assistance solutions, and in particular, to methods and systems for maintaining purchase records, creating shopping lists, and comparing merchant pricing. The user experience in performing shopping functions is simplified and enhanced over existing methods. |
| US08285599B1 |
Method and a system for simultaneous pricing and merchandising
One embodiment of the instant invention is a computer-implemented method for processing transaction-related data that includes at least the following steps of: receiving seller data about a seller; receiving buyer data about a buyer; generating a seller profile; generating a buyer profile; receiving transaction data about a current transaction between the seller and the buyer for an offering; generating a transaction composite for the current transaction; determining a classification rule for each transaction composite class; and classifying the transaction composite into a particular transaction composite class based on comparing the classification rule to: i) the generated seller profile, ii) the generated buyer profile, or iii) the current transaction. |
| US08285596B2 |
CRM system for enhanced retention of customers
Customer relationship management (CRM) system for enhanced retention of customers of a business entity. In one embodiment, a historical data corresponding to a customer is maintained in the CRM system, with the historical data including information on prior interactions between the customer and the business entity. On receiving a call from the customer, the historical data is identified and an attrition risk (indicating the probability of retaining the customer) is computed based on the identified data. Different offers based on the computed attrition risk are then determined and communicated to the customer during the call. |
| US08285594B2 |
Method and apparatus for defining data of interest
Some embodiments of the invention include tools for extracting data of interest from the world wide web (WWW). The extraction is accomplished using descriptions of data of interest. The descriptions of data of interest can include computer programs comprising a sequence of instructions and extractor patterns. The extractor patterns can be developed interactively using a web browser integrated into the graphical development environment for creating the descriptions of data of interest. The instructions can be selected from a predetermined list of instructions designed for extracting information from the WWW. The descriptions of data of interest can be grouped into categories sharing common query elements. Multiple descriptions of data of interest in the same category can executed simultaneously using the same query. The descriptions of data of interest can be accessed by a client computer using a web browser to initiate a query. In some embodiments, the descriptions of data of interest are used to provide information about products available for sale over the WWW. |
| US08285593B2 |
Identifying source material associated with food products using bill of material
Identifying one or more source units for one or more food items may include assigning a sequence of numbers to a plurality of source units received at a processing entity and assigning a sequence of numbers to a plurality of end product units processed from the plurality of source units at the processing entity. A production rate associated with the end product units may be determined from a bill of materials associated with the end product units. A probability distribution function may be generated using at least the production rate. The probability distribution function maps a range of the sequence numbers associated with the plurality of source units to a range of sequence numbers associated with the end product units. A conversion algorithm may be generated that uses the probability distribution function to determine a source unit associated with a selected end product unit. |
| US08285591B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing subscriptions
A subscription system allows a customer to establish a subscription to a product with one or more retailers (e.g., by establishing the subscription through a controller or central system). In one embodiment, a subscription may be established after receiving information that identifies a product. Terms of a subscription for the product are established, such as a frequency and a duration of the subscription. |
| US08285587B2 |
System for multiple signers on an electronic card and gift
The current invention is a viral group greeting cards Internet service. It is a method and process that is an electronic greeting card service that utilizes the distributed access afforded by the Internet or local area networks (LANs) to enable the collection of greetings from multiple users on a single greeting card and its delivery to a recipient. It also allows for the pledges and collection of funds from multiple parties for a gift. |
| US08285585B2 |
System and method for peer-profiling individual performance
Embodiments of the invention provide a comprehensive, automated system and method for evaluating the performance of individuals or entities employed by an organization, particularly useful in peer-profiling physician performance in multi-facility environments. Embodiments of the invention can dynamically compose a virtual peer or group of peers and perform peer-profiling on each individual or group of individuals to be evaluated. For example, a composite physician may be generated from system-wide and/or state-wide healthcare data as a benchmark against which a particular physician is profiled according to industry-standard measurements. The composite physician would have equivalent or similar job function(s) as well as patient population. The composite physician enables a comprehensive “apple to apple” comparison with the particular physician, giving meaning to and facilitating the usefulness of performance evaluation results. |
| US08285583B2 |
Contact stream optimization using FEC and CC constraints
Methods, systems, and software for conducting a marketing campaign are described. One or more scores associated with sending offers to proposed contacts are received; and an overall campaign score corresponding to a sum of the scores is optimized to generate optimal assignments of offers to customers. The optimal assignments are included in the marketing campaign. |
| US08285579B2 |
Automatic determination and location of product support infrastructure resources
A method and system for enabling an automatic determination and allocation of product support resources. The automated process allocates support resources based on a combination of product and market requirements and historical data on resources used by similar products in similar markets. Projects requiring a support infrastructure are algorithmically classified by a combination of product complexity metrics and target market maturity metrics. Then, support infrastructure requirements are calculated based on the combined classification along with historical usage records for similarly classified products. The classification and allocation process is automated so that a product (or multiple products competing for available resources) can self-provision/request its resource requirement as a part of the product development and go-to-market process. |
| US08285574B2 |
Constrained resource management
Implementation of resource management services is provided. A method includes setting a price, per unit of a resource, for a defined time period and based upon a collective projected resource demand corresponding to resource consumption entities (RCEs). For the duration of the time period, the method includes iteratively performing: monitoring actual usage of the resource for each of the RCEs. If, in response to the monitoring, it is determined that a projected shortage exists for an RCE and a projected surplus exists for another RCE, the method includes re-allocating a number of projected surplus units of the resource from the RCE having the projected surplus to the other RCE having the projected shortage. If, in response to the monitoring, it is determined that a projected shortage exists for an RCE and no projected surplus exists for any of the other RCEs, the method includes acquiring additional units of the resource. |
| US08285569B2 |
System for facilitating life settlement transactions
A system and method for buying and selling life insurance policies includes an online database for storing information concerning in-force policies as needed for evaluation by a potential buyer. Owners of policies, either directly or through agents, who might be willing to sell their policies, register with the online website with critical financial and medical underwriting information relating to their policies, as needed for evaluation by a potential buyer. In the online database such information is organized and categorized as to parameters of various medical and financial information, to be reviewed online in an orderly manner by investors and potential buyers of policies. A membership preferably is required for a potential buyer to have access to the online information. In a preferred implementation of the system, an auction is held online to obtain essentially the best price for each policy. |
| US08285565B2 |
Gathering, storing, and retrieving summary electronic healthcare record information from healthcare providers
The system and method of the invention describes a unique approach to gathering patient treatment information in summary form from a universe of health care providers, each using any form of patient information management; converting that information to pointers that can be searched by a healthcare provider before or during treatment to determine if further information needs to be acquired from the original provider; and a variety of methods to provide access to detailed healthcare treatment and diagnosis information from the original healthcare provider through an access and display method provided by the healthcare provider housing the records, if available. The system and method envisages one or more providers of repository services, each offering various ways for healthcare providers to update and maintain summary information, and each providing for continual exchange of information among them to ensure complete access to all available information. |
| US08285559B1 |
Method for providing personalized medical care
A method for providing personalized medical care is described herein. The membership provider provides access to qualified members to highly qualified healthcare facilities. A dedicated staff person is available for the members, along with a selection of preferred services to make the health care facility visit more pleasant. The membership provider will then facilitate a meeting between the healthcare facility and the member to encourage and solicit a donation by the member to the healthcare facility. |
| US08285553B2 |
Computerized information presentation apparatus
A computerized information system and computer readable apparatus for use in a transport apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a computer readable medium having at least one computer program disposed thereon, the at least one program being configured to facilitate ad hoc communication with a personal electronic device of a user, and provide the user with requested information (such as for example direction to a desired business or other entity). At least a portion of the information is obtained via a wireless link with a remote server. |
| US08285551B2 |
Network apparatus and methods for user information delivery
A network apparatus useful for providing directions and other information to a user of a client device in wireless communication therewith. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes one or more wireless interfaces and a network interface for communication with a server. User speech inputs in the form of digitized representations are received by the apparatus and used by the server as the basis for retrieving information including graphical representations of location or entities that the user wishes to find. |
| US08285549B2 |
Personality-based device
A personality-based theme may be provided. A prompt and an input indicating a personality may be received. Next, a voice font corresponding to the personality may be determined. The voice font may then be applied to the received prompt by augmenting the voice font applied prompt with recorded phrases of the personality. |
| US08285542B2 |
Adapting a language model to accommodate inputs not found in a directory assistance listing
A statistical language model is trained for use in a directory assistance system using the data in a directory assistance listing corpus. Calculations are made to determine how important words in the corpus are in distinguishing a listing from other listings, and how likely words are to be omitted or added by a user. The language model is trained using these calculations. |
| US08285539B2 |
Extracting tokens in a natural language understanding application
A method of processing text within a natural language understanding system can include applying a first tokenization technique to a sentence using a statistical tokenization model. A second tokenization technique using a named entity can be applied to the sentence when the first tokenization technique does not extract a needed token according to a class of the sentence. A token determined according to at least one of the tokenization techniques can be output. |
| US08285535B2 |
Techniques for processor/memory co-exploration at multiple abstraction levels
Processor/memory co-exploration at multiple abstraction levels. An architecture description language (ADL) description of a processor/memory system is accessed. The ADL description models on one of a plurality of abstraction levels. The abstraction levels may include a functional (or bit-accurate) level and a cycle-accurate level. Further, a communication protocol for the processor/memory system is accessed. The communication protocol is formed from primitives, wherein a memory interface formed from the primitives is useable in simulation at the abstraction levels. A processor/memory simulation model is automatically generated from the description and description of the communication protocol. The processor/memory simulation model comprises a processor/memory interface comprising the primitives and based on the communication protocol. The memory interface allows simulation of the processor/memory on the appropriate abstraction level for the simulation. For example, the processor/memory interface may be a functional interface or a cycle-accurate interface. |
| US08285530B2 |
Upwind algorithm for solving lubrication equations
An embodiment of the present invention may be a system or method for simulating a physical process. The physical process being simulated may be in a droplet. The process being simulated may be the drying of a droplet on a substrate. Simulating the physical process may include using a finite difference scheme to approximate a differential of a function. The function may be dependent on a plurality of variables. The location in space at which one or more of the variables is evaluated may depend on the sign of one or more of the variables and upon which portion of the finite difference equation is being evaluated. |
| US08285529B2 |
High-speed operation method for coupled equations based on finite element method and boundary element method
According to an aspect of an embodiment, a high-speed operation method for directing a computer to process a coefficient matrix constituting simultaneous equations generated by modeling an analysis target into a mesh by using the finite element method and the boundary element method, said method includes obtaining two edges that are not on a same plane and that are the closest to each other from among edges defined in a mesh of a boundary modeled by the boundary element method, and ordering, in a vicinity of on-diagonal elements of the coefficient matrix, matrix elements in the coefficient matrix of simultaneous equations obtained for the two edges that are the closest to each other. |
| US08285510B2 |
Method, apparatus, and article to facilitate distributed evaluation of objects using electromagnetic energy
Objects such as manufactured goods or articles, works of art, media such as identity documents, legal documents, financial instruments, transaction cards, other documents, and/or biological tissue are sampled via sequential illumination in various bands of the electromagnetic spectrum, a test response to the illumination is analyzed with respect to reference responses of reference objects. The sequence may be varied. The sequence may define an activation order, a drive level and/or temperature for operating one or more sources. Illumination may be in visible, infrared, ultraviolet, or other portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Elements of the evaluation system may be remote from one another, for example coupled by a network. |
| US08285507B2 |
Measurement unit, transportation system, and measurement method
An environment sensor is mounted in a measurement unit. The measurement unit is adapted to be transported by a transportation apparatus. Measurement data from the environmental sensor is stored in a data format suitable for associating the measurement data with a state of the measurement unit. |
| US08285504B2 |
Method of obtaining measurement data using a sensor application interface
A method involves, via a sensor application interface, 1) receiving, from an application, a measurement request associated with a quality-of-service control; 2) in accord with the quality-of-service control, obtaining measurement data from a sensor; and 3) returning to the application i) the measurement data obtained from the sensor, and ii) an indicator of accuracy of the measurement data. |
| US08285499B2 |
Event recognition
A method executes software including a view hierarchy with a plurality of views which displays one or more views of the view hierarchy. The method executes software elements associated with a particular view, wherein each particular view includes event recognizers. Each event recognizer has an event definition based on sub-events, and an event handler that specifies an action for a target, and is configured to send the action to the target in response to an event recognition. The method detects a sequence of sub-events, and identifies one of the views of the view hierarchy as a hit view that establishes which views in the hierarchy are actively involved views. The method delivers a respective sub-event to event recognizers for each actively involved view, wherein each event recognizer for actively involved views in the view hierarchy processes the respective sub-event prior to processing a next sub-event in the sequence of sub-events. |
| US08285498B2 |
Method for detection and automatic identification of damage to rolling bearings
The subject of the invention is a method for detection and automatic identification of defects in rolling bearings applicable in diagnosing rolling bearings and detecting damage in a very early stage of its occurrence.The inventive method in which the vibrations of a bearing in operation are measured, the measured analogue signals are converted to digital data which are filtered and next shock pulses are detected, whereupon defects present in the tested bearing or bearings are identified, characterized in that the detection of shock pulses is done using shock pulse likelihood ratio (Ms). |
| US08285496B2 |
Method and device for providing air mass flow information in a supercharged internal combustion engine
A method for providing a characteristic quantity for a state of an air system of a supercharged internal combustion engine includes: detecting a characteristic quantity measured value as characteristic quantity information with the aid of a sensor; providing a characteristic quantity model, using which a characteristic quantity model value is computed on the basis of one or more quantities different from the characteristic quantity measured value; and providing the characteristic quantity either based on the characteristic quantity measured value or on the characteristic quantity model value computed by the characteristic quantity model, as a function of a state of the air system. |
| US08285495B2 |
Corrosion inspection and monitoring system
A system for in-situ near-real-time detection and monitoring of corrosion in structures with the ability to directly track the presence and growth of corrosion on a structure by measurement of material loss in the structure attained by analysis of high frequency wave propagation dynamics. The Corrosion Inspection and Monitoring (CIM) system utilizes low-weight in-situ transducers and unique data reduction software for detection and monitoring of corrosion in structural systems in near real-time for corrosion related damage. The CIM system provides a corrosion monitoring and tracking tool that can be deployed in the field with the structural system, and no maintenance personnel are needed for corrosion analysis. |
| US08285494B2 |
Conveyor chain monitoring system and method
A system for monitoring the wear of a moving conveyor chain includes a first detector for detecting a leading end of a first link of the chain and providing a first signal corresponding thereto, a second detector for detecting a trailing end of the first link and providing a second signal corresponding thereto, and a third detector for detecting a leading end of a third link of the chain and providing a third signal corresponding thereto. The system processes the signal so as to determine a first distance D1 which is the distance between the leading end and trailing end of the first link, a second distance D2 which is the distance between the trailing end of the first link and the leading end of the third link, and a third distance D3 which is the distance between the leading end of the first link and the leading end of the third link. These distance values are compared with corresponding distances which were previously measured or which were selected as benchmarks, and the differences therebetween provide data indicative of state of wear of the chain. The system operates to measure collective wear of the links as well as wear of individual link members. |
| US08285493B2 |
Autonomous monitoring method and system using sensors of different sensitivities
A method and system of monitoring for chemical or other toxic agents includes operating a plurality of first type sensors having a first level of sensitivity to an agent in a monitored area. Concurrently a second type sensor is operated having a second level of sensitivity to the agent in the monitored area, where the second level of sensitivity is at least ten times more sensitive than the first level of sensitivity. Input from the plurality of first type sensors and the second type sensor is received and analyzed, at a central location, in order to determine the presence of the agent in the monitored area. |
| US08285492B2 |
System and method for interpolative calibration
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. |
| US08285487B2 |
System and methods for improved diabetes data management and use employing wireless connectivity between patients and healthcare providers and repository of diabetes management information
Methods, devices and a system for disease management are provided that employ diagnostic testing devices (e.g., blood glucose meters) and medication delivery devices (e.g., insulin delivery devices) for providing data to a repository in real-time and automatically. Repository data can be analyzed to determine such information as actual test strip use, patient health parameters to outside prescribed ranges, testing and medication delivery compliance, patient profiles or stakeholders to receive promotional items or incentives, and so on. Connected meters and medication delivery devices and repository data analysis are also employed to associate a diagnostic test to a mealtime based on timing of a therapeutic intervention performed by an individual. |
| US08285485B2 |
Vehicle navigation system with route determination based on a measure of sportiness
A system and method is provided for identifying and generating a route that provides a driver with an exhilarating ride. In an example method, the navigation system obtains location data for routes between a starting and ending location. The location data is analyzed by identifying points of inflection of the curved road portion. At least one curved segment is identified as being road portions between the points of inflection. A linear distance, Llinear, is measured between the points of inflection of the at least one curved segment. A curve depth, H, is measured by identifying the maximum distance between the line between the points of inflection and any point on the curved segment along a perpendicular to the line between points of inflection. A curved segment degree of curviness=H/Llinear is calculated and used to determine the measure of curviness of the route. |
| US08285482B2 |
Mobile robot and method for moving mobile robot
Disclosed is a mobile robot and method generating a path of the mobile robot, capable of quickly moving the mobile robot to a location at which the mobile robot is able to detect a docking station. A first configuration space map is built by expanding an obstacle area including an obstacle by a first thickness, and a second configuration space map is built by expanding the obstacle area by a second thickness which is less than the first thickness. A path is generated by sequentially using the first configuration space map and the second configuration space map. |
| US08285479B2 |
Parking assist apparatus
A parking assist apparatus for guiding a vehicle to a target parking position includes an initial position guiding unit configured to generate an initial position guiding path at a predetermined timing, the initial position guiding path leading from a current position of the vehicle to an initial position where vehicle guidance to the target parking position is started. The initial position guiding unit is also configured to guide the vehicle along the initial position guiding path to the initial position. The apparatus also includes an obstacle detecting unit configured to detect an obstacle around the vehicle. When the obstacle detected by the obstacle detecting unit is located along the initial position guiding path, the initial position guiding unit generates the initial position guiding path such that the obstacle detected by the obstacle detecting unit can be avoided. |
| US08285468B2 |
Systems and methods for using a combustion dynamics tuning algorithm with a multi-can combustor
Embodiments of the invention can provide systems and methods for using a combustion dynamics tuning algorithm with a multi-can combustor. According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for controlling a gas turbine engine with an engine model can be implemented for an engine comprising multiple cans. The method can include obtaining operating frequency information associated with multiple cans of the engine. In addition, the method can include determining variation between operating frequency information of at least two cans. Furthermore, the method can include determining a median value based at least in part on the variation. Moreover, the method can include determining whether the median value exceeds at least one operating threshold. The method can also include implementing at least one engine control action to modify at least one of the operating frequencies if at least one operating threshold is exceeded. |