| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08485531B2 |
Oil seal assembly
The invention concerns an oil seal assembly 12, especially for a gas turbine engine, for use in situations, for example, where a shaft passes 2 through the wall of a bearing chamber 10, so that one side of the seal is in a “wet” zone 8 and the other side in a “dry” zone 14. The seal comprises two parts, a relatively stationary annular seal member 32 which runs against the surface 34 of a seal runner 36 carried by the rotatable shaft 2. Both parts of seals of this kind are designed to be a demountable service items. Usually the seal runner 36 is bolted to a flange 16 on the shaft 2. However, problems may arise with oil leakage through the bolt holes formed in the flange 16 and along the bolt threads. In order to solve these problems the invention proposes a double flange arrangement 42, 44, 46 (FIG. 3) in which the seal runner 36 spans both flanges 42, 44 and is secured to the flange 42 in the dry zone 14. |
| US08485528B2 |
Wagering game
A wagering game is disclosed. In one embodiment, the wagering game is a poker-style game in which players may designate their hands as predicted winning hands according to a predetermined standard and players may alternatively designate their hands as qualifying hands entitled to at least a portion of the wagers at stake according to an alternative standard, in which a qualifying hand is awarded at least a portion of the wagers at stake unless the winning hand is a predicted winning hand. In another embodiment, the wagering game is a poker-style game in combination with a lottery-style game in which players may win the poker-style game according to a predetermined standard and players may also win the lottery-style game according to a jackpot standard. |
| US08485523B2 |
Sheet sorter and image forming apparatus
A sheet sorter includes a sheet discharge tray, a sheet conveyance unit, and a sheet pressing guide. The sheet conveyance unit is configured to convey sheets in a conveyance direction and configured to be shifted in a shift direction along a sheet plane and in a shift direction that intersects the conveyance direction, so as to sort the sheets loaded onto the sheet discharge tray from the sheet conveyance unit. The sheet pressing guide is configured to contact and press the sheets, configured to move together with the sheet conveyance unit in conjunction with the sheet conveyance unit moving in the shift direction, and configured to contact a topmost sheet among the sheets loaded on the sheet discharge tray only at a downstream edge of the topmost sheet in the conveyance direction. |
| US08485521B2 |
Automatic document conveying device and image forming apparatus including the same
Provided is an automatic document conveying device, including: a document feeding portion that feeds a document from a document stacking tray; a conveying portion that conveys the document which is fed, to a document reading portion; a discharge portion that discharges the document after being read to a discharge tray; a branching guide that switches a conveying path so that a second surface is read after a first surface of the document is read; and a switchback portion including a switchback roller pair for sending the document to the conveying portion again after the conveying path is switched by the branching guide, in which a switch of the conveying path by the branching guide and open/close of a nip of the switchback roller pair are performed in one drive portion. |
| US08485520B2 |
Sheet stacking apparatus with skew value sensor for sheet stack designation
According to one embodiment, a sheet stacking apparatus comprises a conveyance path, a plurality of stackers, a plurality of gates, a skew sensor, and a control unit. The gates are arranged in a number corresponding to the number of stackers, and guide the sheets from the conveyance path into the stackers, respectively. The skew sensor detects the skew of the sheet conveyed along the conveyance path. The control unit drives a gate corresponding to a stacker, in which the sheet is to be stacked, in accordance with the skew value of the sheet detected by the skew sensor upstream of the gate corresponding to the stacker, in which the sheet is to be stacked, in the direction in which the sheet is conveyed along the conveyance path. |
| US08485517B2 |
Method and apparatus for feeding sheets of media from a media stack in an image production device
A method and apparatus for feeding sheets of media from a media stack in an image production device is disclosed. The method may include fluffing a stack of media with a predetermined amount of air flow, sensing a number of fluffed media sheets in the media stack, determining if the number of fluffed media sheets equals or exceeds a predetermined value, wherein if it is determined that the number of fluffed media sheets equals or exceeds the predetermined value, feeding the fluffed media sheets to an image production section of the image production device. |
| US08485516B2 |
Sheet conveying device, and image forming apparatus including same
A sheet conveying device, that can be included in an image forming apparatus, includes a first sheet conveying path, a second sheet conveying path, a third conveying path, and a belt-type sheet conveying unit. The first sheet conveying path has a curved portion, and feeds and conveys a sheet therethrough. The second sheet conveying path has a curved portion and different from the first sheet conveying path, and feeds and conveys the sheet therethrough. The third sheet conveying path is provided from a confluence of the first sheet conveying path and the second sheet conveying path. The belt-type sheet conveying unit is disposed on one side of the third sheet conveying path corresponding to an outer side of the curved portion of the first sheet conveying path and an inner side of the curved portion of the second sheet conveying path. |
| US08485501B1 |
Wireless controlled apparatus for pulling wire through conduit
A wirelessly controlled apparatus for pulling a free end of wire into the mouth of a conduit and out of the destination end of the conduit. The apparatus includes a wireless spooling controller having an RF transceiver in cooperating communication with a spooling machine having an RF transceiver, for transmitting signaling activating or deactivating the motor-drive of the spooling machine, and for receiving wire-pull completion signaling from the spooling machine. The spooling machine includes a chock pivot-mounted at a mounted end to a frame anchoring the spooling machine near the destination end of the conduit, the chock engageable with a motor-driven gear-wheel engageable with a cogged spool-wheel driven by the motor-drive. Pivotal movement of the chock to the gear-wheel facilitates the fulcrumatic disengagement of the gear-wheel from the spool-wheel cogs, to ready the spooling machine in a starting configuration; activation of the motor-driven gear-wheel essentially causes unchocking of the gear-wheel. The spooling machine also includes an extension spring having one end affixed to the motor-drive proximal to the gear-wheel, and another end affixed to the anchoring frame, spring biasing the unchocked gear-wheel into engagement with the spool-wheel cogs. |
| US08485500B2 |
Curtain door installation system
A cradle for supporting and installing a rolled curtain door comprises rollers configured to support, and permit rolling, of a rolled curtain door thereon. Extensions with rollers permit the cradle to support rolled curtain doors of varying length. A motor may be connected to the rollers to assist in rotating the door. The cradle may be mounted on the tines of a fork on a lifting device. A lift assembly having a tower and base may be attached to the cradle for manually positioning, and mechanically elevating the cradle and door when installing the door. The tower is extended by a piston-and-cylinder unit. A winch motor and cable, or a boom hoist attached to the tower may be used to load a door onto the cradle. |
| US08485499B2 |
Drive device
A driving device for adjusting an activating element of a throttle, of a valve, of a connecting device, of a metering device or the like in particular in the field of oil and gas exploration with at least one rotary gear movably connected to the activating element and a gear arranged between the rotary gear and at least one motor. To improve such a drive device in that the structure is simple and compact and efficiency is increased wherein simultaneously high axial forces are avoided and only a small number of assembly parts are necessary, the gear unit comprises a reduction gear assigned to the rotary gear in particular the so called harmonic drive gear, and a spare gear assigned to the motor which is in particular self locking. |
| US08485492B2 |
Domestic appliance with friction foot and method of forming
A domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, having at least one height-adjustable foot. According to an embodiment the invention, the foot comprises sections with essentially different coefficients of static friction. |
| US08485491B2 |
Movement limiting anti-vibration mount
Anti-vibration mount comprising first and second mounting members connected to each other by an elastomer body. The first mounting member comprises a head integral with the elastomer body and a connector rigidly fixed to the head by a connection permitting a degree of relative positioning tolerance between the head and the connector in a first direction. The head comprises a deformable stop that is interposed between the second mounting member and the connector, the deformable stop being capable of not obstructing the relative positioning tolerance between the head and the connector, and of abutting against the second mounting member by pressing against the connector in the first direction. |
| US08485488B2 |
Latch assembly for adjustable legs
An adjustable leg for a device includes first and second legs telescopically received relative to one another. The second leg has multiple adjustment holes. An externally located lever is supported relative to the first leg. The lever cooperates with a detent received in one of the adjustment holes in a latched position in which the first and second legs are fixed relative to one another. The lever includes an area spaced from the detent that is rotatable about a pivot from the latch position to an unlatched position in which the detent is disposed outside one of the adjustment holes. In the unlatched position, movement of the first and second legs in an axial direction relative to one another is permitted. |
| US08485484B2 |
Instrument assembly support apparatus
An instrument assembly support apparatus is disclosed. In some embodiments, the instrument assembly support apparatus may be for supporting an instrument assembly. The instrument assembly may include an instrument support arm. In some embodiments, the instrument assembly support apparatus may include a base fixedly mountable onto the external frame, a pivot assembly mounted for pivoting relative to the base, an arm assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, and a support assembly configured to support the instrument assembly on the arm assembly. |
| US08485478B2 |
System and method for servicing a breakaway gate
Some methods include rotating a crossing gate actuator around a vertical swing pivot of a crossing gate mount, along a vertical swing path and into a down position to block a path such that a crossing gate coupled to the crossing gate actuator blocks the path, with a spring biased crossing gate release mechanism maintaining the crossing gate in a center position blocking the path and decoupling a bar segment from the crossing gate to decouple a spring from biasing the crossing gate into the center position such that the crossing gate is free to swing around a horizontal swing pivot, perpendicular to the vertical pivot, and out of the path. |
| US08485476B2 |
Discrete co-flow jet (DCFJ) airfoil
The present invention provides an aircraft having one or more fixed wings in a flying wing configuration, where the aircraft further includes a high performance co-flow jet (CFJ) circulating about at least a portion of an aircraft surface to produce both lift and thrust. |
| US08485475B2 |
Debris removal management system and method of operation thereof
A debris removal management system and a method of removing space debris. In one embodiment, the system includes: (1) a frame, (2) a plurality of net sections coupled to the frame and (3) a plurality of microvehicles coupled to the plurality of net sections and configured to be ejected relative to the frame to deploy the plurality of net sections, the plurality of net sections cooperating to form a net configured to capture space debris. |
| US08485468B2 |
Ground-based apparatus for the take-off, landing and taxiing of aircraft
An apparatus for the take-off, landing and taxiing of an aircraft without undercarriage system or with retracted undercarriage, wherein the apparatus comprises a ground-based undercarriage, the speed of which can be matched to the speed of the aircraft when landing, the ground-based undercarriage (10) is releasably connected to a slide system, which can be driven in a direction of movement, the ground-based undercarriage (10) has at least two coupling means, which enable interfaces of the aircraft (4) on the ground-based undercarriage (10) to be coupled, the ground-based undercarriage (10) can be moved along the slide system transversally to the direction of movement of the slide system to match the ground-based undercarriage (10) to the position of the aircraft (4). |
| US08485466B2 |
Compact electric taxi assembly for installation on an aircraft
A electric taxi system (ETS) for an aircraft may comprise drive units mounted coaxially with wheels of the aircraft and dedicated motor control units for the drive units. The motor control units may be operable independently of one another so that a first one of the drive units can be operated at a speed different from an operating speed of a second one of the drive units. Independent operability of the drive units may provide enhanced maneuverability of the aircraft during taxiing. |
| US08485462B2 |
Method of controlling paper transportation in an apparatus, and an apparatus using the method
A paper transportation control method for an apparatus enables conveying paper with appropriate tension on the paper by appropriately controlling a paper delivery operation of a delivery roller. When paper is conveyed by a paper feed roller pair of a roll paper printer, and tension on the paper is detected to exceed an upper tension limit based on displacement of a damping mechanism (a first time), a paper delivery operation of a delivery roller pair starts at a second time after a start operation delay time corresponding to a feed rate passes after the first time. When the tension returns to or below the upper tension limit, the paper delivery operation stops at a third time after a stop operation delay time similarly corresponding to the feed rate passes. |
| US08485461B2 |
Spinning reel spool coupling structure
A spinning reel spool coupling structure has a pin insertion portion, an anti-rotation pin, a retainer, and an anti-rotation groove. The pin insertion portion has a through hole passing through the spool shaft. The anti-rotation pin includes a first anti-rotation portion, a fitting portion, and a second anti-rotation portion. The fitting portion adjoins the first anti-rotation portion, and fits into the pin insertion portion. The second anti-rotation portion extends from the fitting portion and has a diameter greater than that of the pin insertion portion. The retainer member prevents the anti-rotation pin from being detached from the spool shaft, is disposed on an outer peripheral side of the first anti-rotation portion, and has an axial length such that the retainer member contacts the spool shaft. The anti-rotation groove is formed to extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to a length of the spool shaft, and engages the second anti-rotation portion. |
| US08485457B2 |
Method, device and use of a device for producing fuel from moist biomass
The invention relates to a method and to devices, and to the use of the same, for producing fuel pellets from moist biomass of all kinds, wherein the biomass is comminuted, mechanically dehydrated, dried, and then processed into pellets, wherein the comminution is a fine comminution and/or the biomass is washed before or after the comminution—optionally with the water developing during the mechanical dehydration—and is optionally pre-dehydrated and/or heated before the mechanical dehydration step, and is optionally comminuted again after the mechanical dehydration for easier drying. |
| US08485453B2 |
Drinking straw
The straw designed for the intake of water based drink from a container. In the lower part of the flexible straw there are holes that are connected to the main tube of the straw. Above the holes and attached to the straw, there is a floating device which allows for the intake of the drink from the container only from fixed depth ranges, preferably from 5-15 mm from the surface of the water. The straw allows for the protection of the organism of the user from negative effects of the drink on the body's cells. |
| US08485452B2 |
Guard rail apparatus for guiding derailed wheels
The first object of the present invention is to provide a derailment prevention guard which can be easily shunted outside the range of the ballast tamping work, the rail grinding work and the rail maintenance work, and has no problem on safety.A derailment prevention guard comprises a guard member installed within a gauge and a support member fixed to a sleeper or a concrete slab track, and the guard member is held by a hold member which can turn around a central axis supported by the support member as turning center between a main rail and the inside of the gauge on the sleeper or the concrete slab track, and the support member is engaged with the hold member by means of a bolt through turning the hold member toward the main rail around the central axis as turning center on the sleeper or the concrete slab track, and the guard member can be shunted inward within the gauge by turning the hold member toward the inside of the gauge around the central axis as turning center on the sleeper or the concrete slab track after loosening the bolt. |
| US08485449B2 |
Method, system and smart card reader for management of access to a smart card
The described embodiments relate generally to devices, methods and systems for managing access to a memory card, such as a smart card, by a plurality of accessing devices. Certain embodiments relate to a smart card reader (SCR) for managing concurrent access to a smart card by a plurality of accessing devices, the SCR comprising: a processor; a channel manager responsive to the processor for interfacing with the smart card; a communication interface responsive to the channel manager for communicating with the plurality of accessing devices; and wherein, when a session is open on a first channel between a first accessing device and the smart card and the channel manager is configured to issue an open channel command to the smart card to cause the smart card to open a second channel between the smart card and the second accessing device in response to the session request. |
| US08485447B1 |
Thin gage open loop system cards and method of manufacture
An improved card design and manufacturing method to produce thin gage, open loop system cards, such as credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, financial cards, and payroll cards. The thin gage card structure may vary between 5-15 mils in thickness (0.005″ inches to 0.015″ inches) on a one ply plastic material such as PVC or polyester. The majority of manufacturing steps can be performed on a rotary press in a single operation. Card personalization will be accomplished on a high-speed machine using ink jet for all variable information imaged on both the front and back, and accompanied by high speed encoding of magnetic stripe or activation of integrated circuit elements utilized in the electronic payment process. |
| US08485445B2 |
Method and apparatus for accessing electronic data via a familiar printed medium
The disclosed methods and apparatus relate generally to the electronics media industry, such as cable television (CATV), home shopping services, on-line computer services and computer memory applications. These methods and apparatus allow a user to access and make use of electronic media input and output devices by reference to and/or utilization of standard printed matter, such as magazines, textbooks, or any other printed matter that can be correlated to electronic media. |
| US08485442B2 |
Electronic transaction verification system with biometric authentication
An electronic transaction verification system for use with transaction tokens such as checks, credit cards, debit cards, and smart cards that gathers and transmits information about the transaction token and biometric data. The system preferably has the ability to read or scan transaction and account information printed or encoded on the transaction token, digitally encode biometric data, scan drivers' licenses or other identification cards, and take a signature of a customer, all at a transaction location for purposes of account verification. The electronic transaction verification system preferably digitizes various indicia of the token, such as the magnetic ink (MICR) line on a presented check or the magnetic strip on a credit card or debit card, and transmits the transaction information data to a central processing system, at which the central processing system compares the inputted data with an existing database of information to determine if the customer at the point of the transaction is in fact authorized to use the account, and if the account is in satisfactory condition for approval of the transaction. The electronic verification system includes a biometric data device for recording and/or transmitting biometric data taken at the transaction location. The electronic transaction verification system can be used in conjunction with a transaction processing system to determine if the transaction instrument presented for payment is associated with an account established for an authorized user. |
| US08485435B2 |
System and method of financial instrument processing with duplicate item detection
A method and system for processing financial instruments to detect the presence of duplicate instruments. The method may include the steps of receiving items of information for a plurality of financial instruments, grouping the items into cycles and appending cycle and time dependent information to the items to form coded items, storing the coded items in a database, comparing the items to find items having duplicate identifying information, marking duplicate items for subsequent deletion and printing a report listing the duplicate items. The system may include a mainframe, data repository, item processing applications, and a module that filters items from incoming strings to remove false positives. The remaining duplicate items may be viewed on a graphical user interface that allows a user to review attributes of each item and manually mark duplicates for subsequent deletion. |
| US08485434B2 |
M-commerce virtual cash system, method, and apparatus
A virtual cash system, method, and apparatus has an account record containing a record of money amounts associated with a wireless device and a transmitter for wirelessly transmitting to the wireless device predetermined information from the account record. Cash amounts can be spent from the account record directly from the wireless device via information derived from the wireless device via a bar code on the display, a short range radio signal, a light beam, or the like. A different security code is generated for each account transaction for verification. |
| US08485431B2 |
Methods for filling prescriptions to fulfill a customer order
Methods for filling prescriptions in a customer order. Each of the products is marked with a product barcode containing information relating to a contained pharmaceutical. Prior to loading into a machine, each of the products is free of markings relating to patient prescriptions in the customer order. The method includes using the machine to read the product barcode on each of the products loaded into the machine. In response to reading the product barcode on each of the products, at least some of the products are labeled with information relating to a respective one of the prescriptions. |
| US08485428B1 |
Systems and methods for providing security information about quick response codes
A computer-implemented method for providing security information about quick response codes may include (1) identifying an image captured by a mobile device including a matrix barcode, (2) determining that the matrix barcode includes a link to an Internet resource, (3) determining the trustworthiness of the Internet resource referenced by the matrix barcode, and then (4) augmenting the image with a visual augmentation that is based at least in part on the trustworthiness of the Internet resource. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US08485426B2 |
Bendable electronic device status information system and method
A method includes, but is not limited to: obtaining and sending one or more bendable electronic device physical status related information portions to the bendable electronic device based upon the obtaining of the first information. In addition to the foregoing, other related method/system aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. |
| US08485425B2 |
Inline mail validation
Each respective mail item in a received batch of items is read to acquire information, which enables a plurality of verifications with regard to authenticity of the respective mail item. In a vote-by-mail example, one or more features are validated for authenticity in relation to the election, and one or more features are validated for authenticity in relation to a voter. The verifications in relation to a voter may involve detection of a signature and verification of the authenticity of the signature. The items are sorted according to the verification results and may be sorted based on other criteria. The methods, systems and software disclosed herein enable such verifications and sorting, in a single pass through a sorting system. |
| US08485418B2 |
Method of wirebonding that utilizes a gas flow within a capillary from which a wire is played out
Contact structures exhibiting resilience or compliance for a variety of electronic components are formed. A variety of materials for the wire stem (which serves as a falsework) and for the overcoat (which serves as a superstructure over the falsework) are disclosed. Various techniques are described for mounting the contact structures to a variety of electronic components (e.g., semiconductor wafers and dies, semiconductor packages, interposers, interconnect substrates, etc.), and various process sequences are described. The resilient contact structures described herein are ideal for making a “temporary” (probe) connections to an electronic component such as a semiconductor die, for burn-in and functional testing. |
| US08485416B2 |
Bonding process and bonded structures
A sealing and bonding material structure for joining semiconductor wafers having monolithically integrated components. The sealing and bonding material are provided in strips forming closed loops. There are provided at least two concentric sealing strips on one wafer. The strips are laid out so as to surround the component(s) on the wafers to be sealed off when wafers are bonded together. The material in the strips is a material bonding the semiconductor wafers together and sealing off the monolithically integrated components when subjected to force and optionally heating. A monolithically integrated electrical and/or mechanical and/or fluidic and/or optical device including a first substrate and a second substrate, bonded together with the sealing and bonding structure, and a method of providing a sealing and bonding material structure on at least one of two wafers and applying a force and optionally heat to the wafers to join them are described. |
| US08485415B2 |
Method for manufacturing panel structure
A method for manufacturing a panel structure in which a reference position of a first frame in an axial direction is first welded to one face of a face plate, a not-yet-welded position closest to the reference position in the axial direction is second welded to the one face, and welding is performed discontinuously to the one face from the not-yet-welded position closest to the reference position at portions on both sides in the axial direction on the basis of the reference position. |
| US08485414B2 |
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. |
| US08485412B2 |
Surgical staples having attached drivers and stapling instruments for deploying the same
A surgical stapling system including a driver and a staple where the driver is connected to the staple. In previous surgical stapling systems, the driver and the staple were not connected. A surgical stapling system in accordance with the present invention may have fewer components, less assembly and manufacturing time, and may accommodate larger staples which are at least partially embedded in the driver. In various embodiments, a surgical stapling system comprises a staple, the staple including a deformable member, and a stapler, the stapler including an anvil, a staple cartridge for removably storing the staple, and a cam movable between a first position and a second position. In these embodiments, the surgical stapling system further comprises a driver attached to the staple, the driver being operatively engaged with the cam to move the staple toward the anvil when the cam is moved between the first position and the second position. |
| US08485410B1 |
Nail gun magazine for stacked fasteners
A magazine for a stack of fasteners in which the mean surface area overlap between adjacent fastener heads is substantial, has a chute, a constantly-urged follower pushing the stack in the chute, a slideway that intersects the chute at a separation station for the lead fastener, and a slide for pushing the lead fastener to an expulsion station and then retracting to get behind the next fastener to dispense from the chute and accede to the separation station, it being the new lead fastener. |
| US08485406B2 |
Belt hanger for helmets
Disclosed is a plate-shaped heating panel having connecting members fastened to each other by means of resin. The heating panel comprises upper and lower plates integrally formed to face each other so as to form an inner fluid pathway in which heating water flows, a plurality of connecting members, The holes are filled with a melted plastic resin, and the melted plastic resin is integrated with the connecting members by pressing. |
| US08485402B2 |
Hands free archery bow support
Apparatus and methods are provided for holding an archery bow in a ready, near shooting position. A harness is worn around a hunter's chest. A sling also attaches to the hunter for holding a lower cam/pulley or lower limb of a compound archery bow. A bow string holder is carried by the harness. The bow string holder attaches to a string portion of the compound archery bow and allows the archery bow to hang therefrom to maintain tension on the bow string holder. The tension prevents the bow string holder from releasing the string until the tension is released upon the hunter's lifting of the archery bow from the sling for shooting an arrow. |
| US08485394B2 |
Beverage dispenser
To provide a beverage dispenser capable of appropriately and smoothly supplying a carbonated beverage as a supercooled beverage. According to the present invention, there is disclosed a beverage dispenser including a carbonator 51 for manufacturing carbonated water; a beverage supply circuit 7 for supplying a carbonated beverage manufactured by the carbonator 51 to the outside; a heat exchanger 16 for supercooling; and a primary cooling device 13, the carbonator 51 mixes a carbonic acid gas supplied from a gas regulator 54 which supplies a pressurized carbonic acid gas, syrup and diluting water to manufacture the carbonated beverage, and the heat exchanger 16 for supercooling cools the carbonated beverage flowing through the beverage supply circuit 7 into a supercooled state at a temperature of a solidifying point or less to release the supercooled state in the outside. |
| US08485389B2 |
Assembly with vapor vent valve and liquid trap for static leak prevention in vapor control system
An assembly mountable to a fuel tank and connectable to a carbon canister includes a housing defining an internal cavity. A vapor vent valve is configured to permit fluid communication from the fuel tank through the vapor vent valve from an inlet to an outlet, and in all cases is isolated from the internal cavity so that fluid flows through the vapor vent valve from the inlet to the outlet without fluid communication with the internal cavity. A first vent line connects the outlet of the vapor vent valve with a first port of the housing. A second vent line connects a second port of the housing with the carbon canister. At least a portion of the first vent line is above a predetermined liquid fuel level within the tank when the assembly is mounted to the fuel tank and tilted at up to a predetermined angle. |
| US08485387B2 |
Storage container including multi-layer insulation composite material having bandgap material
In one embodiment, a storage container includes a container structure defining at least one storage chamber. The container structure includes multi-layer insulation (MLI) composite material having at least one thermally-reflective layer. The at least one thermally-reflective layer includes bandgap material that is transmissive to radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation. |
| US08485384B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator with a refrigerated goods container on its back accommodates a vertical partition, which is connected via at least one holder in the vicinity of its upper edge and with the refrigerated goods container. At least one receiving portion is molded in the refrigerated goods container, in which the at least one holder of the partition can be hooked in. |
| US08485383B2 |
Container for holding food and drinks
A container includes multiple compartments for holding drinks and food. In an exemplary embodiment, a first compartment holds a drink of choice, such as soda, water or juice, and a second compartment holds a food of choice, such as popcorn, pretzels or chips. A third compartment may also be provided for holding a second food of choice, such as candy. |
| US08485382B2 |
Refuse container
A refuse container has a lid rotatably coupled to a bin. A locking mechanism for the lid includes a latch including a handle and is moveable between a locked lid position and an unlocked lid position. A detent acts between the bin and the lid and cooperates with the latch so as to effect locking of the lid to the bin when the latch is in the locked lid position, and permit movement of the lid, relative to the bin, from the closed position to the open position when the latch is in the unlocked lid position. |
| US08485376B2 |
Folding container
A folding container including a base portion, first and second lower side wall portions, and first and second upper side wall portions having a hinge connection to the lower side wall portions. The folding container including locking tabs in the base portion for engaging notches in the lower side wall portions when the container is in a folded configuration. |
| US08485372B2 |
Lotion bottle
A lotion bottle in which different lotions are received for separate use or mixed use is provided. The lotion bottle includes an outer bottle and an inner bottle. Different lotions are received in the outer bottle and the inner bottle respectively. By pushing out a rotating assembly, a lotion received in the inner bottle moves towards a feeding head so as to be mixed with the other lotion received in the outer bottle. |
| US08485371B2 |
Use of no-bake mold process to manufacture railroad couplers
A railroad coupler assembly having at least a body and a knuckle both formed in a no-bake manufacturing process, the body and the knuckle having dimensional tolerances of distances between features that wear during operation that are about half those obtained from a body and a knuckle manufactured by a green sand process, resulting in increased fatigue life compared to the body and the knuckle manufactured by a green sand process. |
| US08485370B2 |
Corrugated shelving display system with two-piece shelves
A shelving display system formed from a single blank of corrugated material. The display system including a plurality of shelves formed from a first shelf component and a second shelf component. |
| US08485365B2 |
Fluid filter
An internal combustion engine liquid filter, comprising: a filter housing and housing cover a ring filter element; at least one intermediate piece arranged below the filter housing cover and above the housing; an inlet channel arranged on the housing side, communicating with a crude side of the ring filter element, and an outlet channel arranged on the housing side, communicating with a pure side of the ring filter element; a drainage channel on the housing side, wherein the housing space drains through the drainage channel when removing the filter housing cover; and a closure mechanism arranged in the intermediate piece and the closure mechanism is rotatable about a filter axis, wherein the closure mechanism has a closure element for closing the drainage channel. |
| US08485363B2 |
Device for and method of separating solid materials on the basis of a mutual difference in density
The present invention relates to a device for separating solid materials on the basis of a mutual difference in density, wherein the materials to be separated are brought into contact with a magnetic fluid across which fluid a density gradient is generated by means of a magnetic field such that fractions of solid materials of different densities are obtained, said device being provided with a magnet, an inflow chamber, a separation chamber, and means for discharging fractions of solid materials of different densities in separation, wherein the magnetic fluid flows from the inflow chamber to the separation chamber, wherein the magnet is arranged above the separation chamber, and wherein at least one duct for the supply of the solid materials to be separated is located below the inflow chamber and the separation chamber and encloses an angle with the inflow chamber and the separation chamber. |
| US08485361B2 |
Large container for handling and transporting high-purity and ultra high purity chemicals
The invention relates to an empty container (1) for receiving air- and/or moisture-sensitive compounds, comprising a connecting unit (2) and an inner volume of at least 300 liters and adapters for connecting the empty container, and to the use thereof. |
| US08485359B2 |
Seal absorbent pad-RFID-bar code device for a dosing cap
A dosing cap for use with or without a separate container for combining two different ingredients at time of use by dispensing ingredient one from the dosing cap into a container with ingredient two. The dosing cap includes a moisture and waterproof seal to prevent the ingredients from receiving any moisture during storage, an absorbent material (desiccant) included with the seal to absorb any residual moisture in the container or that might be received into the container during storage to ensure a moisture free environment for the ingredient and a tracking device such as a radio frequency identifying chip (RFID) that is attached to the dosing cap for product identification and tracking purposes. |
| US08485357B2 |
Tray for positioning elongated objects, in particular syringe bodies or syringes
A tray for positioning elongated objects each having a body and a flange. The tray includes a plate with openings and bearing surfaces. At least one first bearing surface is near a first opening and located at a first distance from the plate of the tray, and at least one second bearing surface is near a second opening adjacent the first opening and located at a second distance from the plate of the tray. The second distance is different from the first distance. The first and second openings are located at a distance with respect to one another such that the flange of a first elongated object engaged in one of these openings is able to partially overlap the flange of a second elongated object engaged in the other of these openings without contact between the flange of the first elongated object and the flange of the second elongated object. |
| US08485356B2 |
Methods for exposing and using a swab
A method for remotely applying a force to a tether affixed to a sterilizing swab package to open the package for use of a swab disposed therein. The method may be applied to sterilizing a septum of a vial disposed within a bag. |
| US08485355B2 |
Pack for smoking articles
A pack for smoking articles such as cigarettes having front and rear panels connected by opposite side panels, a bottom panel and a lid. At least one of the panels in the pack includes a plurality of transverse rigidifying bands. These bands are greater in thickness than a region between the bands. The bands may be formed by an embossing method. |
| US08485352B1 |
Yad including mezuzah casement
A yad-mezuzah casement includes a yad, at least a portion of which serves as a mezuzah casement. A mezuzah may be contained within the mezuzah casement. The mezuzah casement may be contained within the yad, attached to an outer surface of the yad or interposed between the yad and a bracket that includes an attachment fixture used for mounting the yad-mezuzah casement to a doorpost of a building or a room. The yad-mezuzah casement, which itself includes no attachment fixture, provides an opportunity for continuous display of a yad that may be received by a Jewish youth participant at a B'nai Mitzvah ceremony. Together, the yad-mezuzah casement and the mounting bracket provide a yad-mezuzah casement kit. |
| US08485347B2 |
Apparatus and method for receiving and transferring solid material
An apparatus and an associated method comprise a receiving zone, for receiving solid material, a transferring zone, for transferring said solid material and optionally a releasing zone for releasing said solid material, e.g. to another moving surface and with a moving endless surface moving in and through said zones, said a moving endless surface has thereto a multitude of primary cavities and secondary cavities receiving said solid material, wherein said primary cavities are connectable and/or connected to said vacuum system of said transferring zone, and said secondary cavities are not connectable/connected to said vacuum system of said transferring zone, and wherein thus only said primary cavities transfer said solid material e.g. to said further moving surface; and wherein typically both primary and secondary cavities are connectable/connected to a vacuum system in said receiving zone. |
| US08485345B2 |
Device for scattering bulk material
The invention relates to an apparatus for scattering poured goods, comprising a distributor chute (1) having a feed area (12) and having an ejection area, wherein the distributor chute (1) can be rotated about a center axis, which runs vertically in the installed position in the gravity direction of the poured goods and is mounted inclined at an angle with respect to this center axis, wherein the distributor chute (1) has a first guiding longitudinal face, which forms the front face in the rotation direction, and a second longitudinal face, which trails with respect to the rotation direction, and wherein at least the second longitudinal face forms the ejection face of the distributor chute (1). The ejection face forms an ejection edge (7), which is curved in an S-shape. The distributor chute (1) can be moved transversely with respect to the vertical center axis, such that the feed point can be shifted in the feed area (12) such that the brown coal particles of the material flow which slides over the distributor chute (1) can be influenced in a targeted manner. |
| US08485344B1 |
Torsional tensioning device
A device for applying a torsional bias force to a shaft is provided. In a preferred embodiment the device is used in combination with a tube supporting a cleaning blade for a conveyor belt cleaner, thereby enabling the force of the cleaning blade against the conveyor belt to be precisely set to a desired value. |
| US08485343B2 |
Conveying system having endless drive medium and conveying method
In a transport system, a plurality of carriers are attached to an endless belt configured to rotate in a circulating manner. At a station, a hand, a driver configured to move the hand in a rotation direction and a vertical direction, a first carrier sensor configured to detect the carriers at a predetermined position upstream of the hand along the rotation direction of the endless driving medium, and a second carrier sensor configured to detect the carriers at a position downstream of the first carrier sensor are provided. When the carriers pass through the second carrier sensor, it is checked whether the moving distance of the belt matches the distance between the two carrier sensors. In this manner, before starting loading or unloading, for example, whether the encoder is operated normally or not can be confirmed. |
| US08485339B2 |
Banknote depositing and dispensing machine
When depositing processing is performed, a banknote guide section and a bill press are separated from each other such that a banknote accommodation space formed between the banknote guide section and the bill press is positioned below a banknote depositing and dispensing port, a upper guide section is moved towards a pickup roller side and a input port shutter is opened. After the input port shutter has been closed, the upper guide section is moved towards a bill press side, and by moving the banknote guide section and the bill press towards the pickup roller side, the pickup roller, which is projected out into the accommodation space through a cutout in the banknote guide section, and which makes contact with the banknote, feeds the banknote out towards a conveying path. |
| US08485338B2 |
Paper money processor
A paper money processor according to the present invention includes a transaction slot where paper money is at least either inserted or dispensed with an orientation such that one of lengthwise ends of the paper money is positioned at a side of a first lengthwise end of the transaction slot. The transaction slot includes a main opening which opens on a second lengthwise end of the transaction slot, and a lateral opening which is continuous with the main opening, and opens on a first widthwise end of the transaction slot. |
| US08485336B2 |
Composite chute liners
Chutes and other components may include composite liners to improve performance. Composite liners generally comprise a base metal having a ceramic material embedded therein. The composite liners exhibit improved resistance to wear and, therefore, have a longer usable life than liners formed of the base metal alone. |
| US08485335B2 |
Torque coupling assembly
A torque coupling assembly including: a driving assembly with a driving axle and a rotatable driving shell; a driven assembly with a driven axle and a rotatable driven shell; and a frame element. The driving and driven shells each include an axial projection. In an assembled position, the driving and driven assemblies are both connected to the frame and their respective axial projections are aligned to transmit rotational torque between the driving shell and the driven shell. In a removed position, one of the driving assembly and the driven assembly may be removed in a generally radial direction relative to the frame and the other of the driving assembly and the driven assembly. The driving and/or driven assembly may include ramped lead-in geometry. The driving and/or driven assembly may include shielding geometry to axially overlap at least a portion of the axial projection. |
| US08485331B2 |
Driven accessory with low-power clutch for activating or de-activating same
A driven accessory having a clutch that permits selective operation of an accessory portion. The clutch employs rotational inertia to control driving engagement of a wrap spring to an interior clutch surface on a drive member and/or driving disengagement of the wrap spring from the interior clutch surface. |
| US08485329B1 |
Luggage bag having a handle incorporating a scale for weighing the bag
A luggage bag includes a handle fastened to a carrying case by an attachment member at each end. Each of the attachment members is held against a motion limiting surface within the handle by a compression spring, at a position in which the attachment member can be latched for carrying the bag or released to measure the weight of the bag. The weight of the bag is determined by the position of an indicator moving with one of the attachment members on a scale moving with the other attachment member. |
| US08485325B2 |
Stop damper
A stop damper including a damper member with a cylinder. A piston is moveably guided inside a receiving space of the cylinder. The cylinder has a sliding surface against which the piston rests with a sealing element. A braking force that acts upon the piston can be applied using the air pressure generated in the receiving space because the piston is displaced, the receiving space being connected to the environment via an air-conducting connection to reduce the air pressure. In order to improve the braking effect of the sliding element, the sealing element of the piston and the sliding surface of the cylinder can contact each other in at least some areas via a defined rubbing surface geometry, the peak-to-valley height of the sliding surface being <1 μm and the peak-to-valley height of the facing surface of the sealing element being =4.5 μm in at least some areas. |
| US08485321B2 |
Electronic brake assembly for a bicycle
An electronic brake device for use with a wheel of a bicycle provides, among other features, wireless, remote disengagement of a wheel brake. A brake coupled to a housing is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The housing includes a receiver configured to receive a command signal, and a processor operative to identify the received command signal. If the command signal is identified as a first command signal, the processor outputs a first control signal. An electric motor is operatively coupled to the brake to selectively move the brake from the engaged position in which the wheel of the bicycle is being braked to the disengaged position in which the wheel of the bicycle is free of any brake contact in response to the first control signal. Measured movement of the brakes between fully braked or fully disengaged positions are possible in the disclosed arrangement. |
| US08485315B2 |
Acoustic energy reflector
The present invention relates to an acoustic energy reflector comprising a microcellular rubber as inner liner and a fiber reinforced composite as outer casing, in a core-shell assembly, wherein the said microcellular rubber is selected from the group of natural and synthetic rubbers having glass transition temperature below 0° C. and the resin for the fiber reinforced composite is selected from a group having a glass transition temperature at least 50° C. |
| US08485313B2 |
Muffler and engine system
A muffler for a combustion engine includes walls forming a chamber, a first inlet, a first outlet, and a conduit. The first inlet is designed to receive exhaust gases from an exhaust duct of the engine. The exhaust gases pass through the chamber when moving from the first inlet to the first outlet. The exhaust gases then exit the muffler through the first outlet. The conduit extends between a second inlet and a second outlet. The second inlet is configured to receive fresh air entering the muffler. The fresh air then exits the conduit and is introduced into the exhaust gases through the second outlet. |
| US08485304B2 |
Brake operation structure and brake/differential-lock operation structure
The present invention provides a brake operation structure capable of realizing facilitation of adjustment work of a brake operation mechanism for operating a brake mechanism based on manual operation. The brake operation structure includes a brake operation mechanism that rotates a brake pressing member of the brake mechanism about a rotational axis line into a brake actuation direction in accordance with manual operation, and a brake adjustment mechanism that adjusts an initial position of the brake pressing member around the rotational axis line at a time when the brake operation mechanism is not in operation. The brake adjustment mechanism is inserted in the brake operation mechanism at a position allowing the brake adjustment mechanism to be accessed from above a fender trough an opening that is provided at the fender for allowing a driver's seat support frame to be mounted. |
| US08485302B2 |
Holding device
A holding device, for the holding of a component part of an exhaust system on a peripheral structure, more preferably of a vehicle equipped with the exhaust system, has a first connecting point for fastening the holding device to the component part of the exhaust system and a second connecting point for fastening the holding device to the structure. A coupling device is arranged between the connecting points which makes possible reversible relative movements between the connecting points. For improved holding function, the coupling device is configured such that in at least in one active direction the coupling device has a speed-dependent or frequency-dependent stiffness. The coupling device has a lower stiffness with slower or low-frequency relative movements than with faster or high-frequency relative movements. |
| US08485301B2 |
Operator monitoring system for a vehicle
A vehicle has an operator monitoring system that includes an operator sensor configured to sense whether the operator is in a proper operating position within the operator cab and a control module connected to the operator sensor wherein when the vehicle is running and the operator sensor senses that the operator is not in the proper operating position, the control module activates safety features to stop the truck, including any one or a combination of activating the main brake, activating the parking brake, and/or shifting the transmission to a different setting. |
| US08485300B2 |
Sports type, saddle type electric vehicle
A drive wheel is intermediation driven by an additional element, while achieving a reduction in cost by making use of a plurality of existing motors. A drive motor as a drive source includes a plurality of motor bodies arranged coaxially with and adjacently to each other in the vehicle width direction to permit integral driving thereof, and is disposed forwardly of a pivot for a swing arm supporting the driving wheel. One end in the vehicle width direction of a drive shaft of the drive motor is made to be an output end for output to the driving wheel, and a drive sprocket for power transmission to the driving wheel is provided at the output end. The center of the drive motor in the vehicle width direction is disposed with an offset to the side opposite to the side of the drive sprocket with reference to the vehicle body center. |
| US08485298B2 |
Distributed power generation system for surface transport
A power generation system for a surface transport vehicle having at least two wheels. The power generation system includes a primary power generation device and a secondary power generation device. A connector attaches the secondary power generation device to at least two wheels of the surface transport vehicle. The power generation system also includes a power storage unit capable of storing energy received from either the primary or secondary power generation devices. Furthermore, the power generation system includes a torque converter which is capable of transferring power from the secondary power generation device to the power storage unit. |
| US08485293B2 |
Hybrid drive having emergency start capability
A method is provided for starting an internal combustion engine of a vehicle having a hybrid drive which includes at least one electric drive to which a high-voltage battery is assigned. If the high-voltage battery is discharged, an on-board electrical system battery of the vehicle is connected to a pulse-controlled inverter which activates the at least one electric drive; the at least one electric drive is accelerated load-free to a maximum rotational speed achievable at the applied voltage; the pulse-controlled inverter is disconnected from the on-board electrical system battery; and a clutch is engaged between the at least one electric drive and the internal combustion engine. |
| US08485292B2 |
Hybrid vehicle cooling apparatus
In cooling apparatus for a hybrid vehicle having driving apparatus including a generator driven by an engine and an electric motor (12) for driving the vehicle, the driving apparatus, a radiator arranged in a front portion of an engine compartment and an inverter (41) are coupled by a cooling circuit for the motor equipment. An electric water pump (45) for circulating cooling water is arranged in the cooling circuit. Mounting apparatus (15) for supporting the driving apparatus to the vehicle body is arranged laterally in the vehicle width direction of the driving apparatus. The electric water pump (45) is arranged under the mounting apparatus (15). By the use of such a structure, a situation in which the electric water pump (45) gets sandwiched between the engine radiator which has been shifted backwardly in the presence of an external force acting from the front of the vehicle, and the driving apparatus and gets damaged can be prevented. |
| US08485285B2 |
Mobile product retail system and methods thereof
A vehicle for transporting or vending refrigerated product having a peripheral body extending vertically from the supporting surface, the peripheral body having a driver area, retail area, and cooling area, a bulk head for dividing the retail area from the cooling area, an auxiliary power system for powering at least one electrical component, having a battery bank and a charging mechanism, the charging mechanism having a vehicle charging system, shore power charging system, and solar array charging system, the charging mechanism imparting electrical charge to the battery bank, where the electrical component is a temperature control system for maintaining the temperature of the cooling area within a desired temperature range. |
| US08485284B2 |
Method for producing a PCD compact
A method of producing a composite diamond compact comprising a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) compact bonded to a cemented carbide substrate is provided. The method includes the steps of: providing a PCD table, preferably a PCD table with diamond-to-diamond bonding and a porous microstructure in which the pores are empty of second phase material bringing together the PCD table and a cemented carbide substrate in the presence of a bonding agent to form an unbonded assembly; subjecting the unbonded assembly to an initial compaction at a pressure of at least 4.5 GPa and a temperature below the melting point of the bonding agent for a period of at least 150 seconds; and thereafter subjecting the unbonded assembly to a temperature above the melting point of the bonding agent and a pressure of at least 4.5 GPa for a time sufficient for the bonding agent to become molten and bond the PCD table to the substrate to form a composite diamond compact. |
| US08485276B2 |
Auto hammer
An auto hammer includes a housing having a grip, a head assembly arranged on one end of the housing, a motor mounted within the housing, a switch arranged on the housing for controlling the motor. There are at least two hand-holding positions on the housing where the switch can be triggered. The auto hammer may therefore be held by hands at a plurality of positions and will thereby be suitable for use in various circumstances. |
| US08485275B2 |
Power tool
A technique that increases operability in changing the rotational speed of a spindle in a power tool. The rotational speed can be changed in three levels by utilizing a planetary gear mechanism. The third gear position is located in an intermediate position in the sliding direction of the speed changing part. The first speed change position is located on one side of the third speed change position. The second speed change position is located on the other side of the third speed change position. During operation, shifting between the first and third speeds can be done without going through the second speed each time. Further, shifting between the second and third speeds can be done without going through the first speed. Therefore, speed change shifting can be facilitated. |
| US08485262B1 |
Modular, stackable wellhead system
A modular wellhead system having the capability for single or dual annulus via interchangeable heads, a unique capping system, and other features. A unique wellhead manual positive lock system incorporating an energizable inner bite ring for engaging the casing tubing, a compressible slip hanger for the tubing, as well as a hydraulic jack for lifting the tubing from the well to reintroduce tension are provided, the system being particularly suitable for use in conjunction with repair or low pressure plug and abandon (P&A) operations. Components of the system are designed for assembly via locking pins for diver friendly operation, While the present system is designed principally for use in subsea environments, the system can likewise be utilized on land or platforms. |
| US08485261B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for closing and reopening a pipe
An apparatus which includes a housing defining a chamber, the chamber being sealed from an exterior of the housing, wherein the housing further defines an opening in fluid communication with the chamber and the exterior of the housing. The apparatus further includes a valve in fluid communication with the opening and positioned between the chamber and the exterior of the housing and a member at least partially positioned within the chamber and moveable relative to the housing such that opening of the valve allows fluid to enter the chamber from the exterior of the housing and move the member. A method to operate the same is provided. |
| US08485260B2 |
Modular backup fluid supply system
A system and method to allow backup or alternate fluid flow routes around malfunctioning components using removable, modular component sets. In one exemplary embodiment, an ROV establishes a backup hydraulic flow to a BOP function by attaching one end of a hose to a modular valve block and the other end to an intervention shuttle valve, thus circumventing and isolating malfunctioning components. A compound intervention shuttle valve is provided that comprises first and second primary inlets, first and second secondary inlets, and an outlet. A modular valve block is provided that comprises a directional control valve, a pilot valve, a manifold pressure regulator, a pilot pressure regulator, stab type hydraulic connections and an electrical wet-make connection. |
| US08485259B2 |
Structurally stand-alone FRAC liner system and method of use thereof
A stand-alone frac liner that allows for fracturing of multiple lateral legs of a multilateral well on a single call out and rig-up of fracturing equipment. Tools and techniques are provided that include setting multiple stand-alone frac liners in multiple lateral legs of the multilateral well. The liners may rest in the legs physically untethered to surface equipment. Thus, a single call out of a frac string tubular and associated equipment may be used to frac the lateral legs in sequence from one leg to the next. This may be achieved without the requirement of removal of the tubular from the well or disconnect of surface fracturing equipment between the lateral fracture applications. Thus, a considerable amount of expenses associated with time and manpower may be saved. |
| US08485254B2 |
Method and apparatus for in situ extraction of bitumen or very heavy oil
A method for the in situ extraction of bitumen or very heavy oil from oil sand deposits close to the surface, where thermal energy is introduced into the deposit to reduce the viscosity of the bitumen or very heavy oil is provided. Condensed water is used that is introduced into the deposit via an injection pipe and is horizontally conducted inside the pipe within the deposit such that the water can evaporate in situ and the heat can be applied to the deposit. An apparatus including an injection pipe, an extraction pipe, a converter and electrical conductors are also provided. |
| US08485250B1 |
Sealed well cellar
A well cellar system includes a substantially planar base plate, the base defining an aperture sized to receive a conductor pipe. The planar base plate is an integral structural member which, in conjunction with the seal between the base plate and the wall and the riser and the conductor, are sufficiently robust to support the weight of the conductor pipe and its auxiliary equipment. The sealed well cellar is afforded with a laterally extending flange which serves as an anti-buoyancy anchor. A anti-buoyancy port allows the upward floatation pressure to be balanced out by water pressure within the cellar during placement to avoid floatation. A sacrificial anode housing is provided with a removable lid and holes for allowing passage of electrolyte. Although the preferred embodiments of sealed well cellars are metal and plastic, a cementaceous embodiment is also envisioned. |
| US08485247B2 |
Heat exchangers for microstructures
A multiple-layered microfluidic device includes at least a first fluid path and at least a second fluid path, wherein the first fluid path includes a layer or portion of a layer of the microfluidic device. The first path has multiple rows of serpentine wall segments positioned there along. The wall segments extend in a direction along the first path. The rows extend along a direction cross-ways to the first path. Adjacent ones of wall segments within a row are arranged such that concave portions face concave portions of adjacent ones of segments, while convex portions face convex portions of adjacent ones of segments. |
| US08485244B2 |
Continuous casting device and molten metal pouring nozzle
A continuous casting device capable of giving lubricating property to a molten metal pouring nozzle without increasing lubricating oil and performing casting with high casting surface quality for a long period of time is provided. In a continuous casting device 1 in which a molten metal pouring nozzle 20 is arranged between a molten metal receiving portion 10 and a mold 40, the molten metal pouring nozzle 20 is equipped with a cylindrical main body portion 22 made of a fire-resistant substance and having a molten metal passage 21, and an annular member 30 having self-lubricating property is arranged on a mold-side end face 23 of the main body portion 22 so as to surround the molten metal passage 21. |
| US08485239B2 |
Machine for labeling by means of pre-pasted labels printed on a ribbon
A machine for labeling by way of pre-pasted labels printed on a ribbon, comprising a rotating carousel provided with pans for supporting containers to be labeled, and a drum for cutting and transferring each individual label onto the containers which, in the motion of the carousel, progressively face the drum, the machine further comprising a rotating roller, which is adapted to receive from the drum each label designed to be applied to a container that is not present on the corresponding pan of the carousel. |
| US08485235B2 |
Receiver with valves
An apparatus and system for transferring a liquid, such as an anesthetic, from the outlet port of a reservoir to a machine while effectively and conveniently minimizing the release of anesthetic. In one embodiment, the apparatus and system can include a first valve movable between a first position and a second position; a first housing surrounding the first valve; a second valve slidably connected to the first valve and movable between a third position and a fourth position; and a second housing which surrounds the second valve; wherein the apparatus defines a first opening, a second opening, and a receiver passage between the first and second openings. In another embodiment, a movable plunger can be slidably connected to the second valve. |
| US08485232B1 |
Apparatus for filling containers
A method and apparatus for filling and/or tamping product in a container is described herein. More specifically, the present disclosure is related to a device for filling a container with a material including a conduit comprising a top opening and a bottom opening, and a tamper integrally coupled to the conduit, wherein the tamper is configured to move laterally in a straight path horizontally, wherein a tamping face is configured to tamp in a vertical direction. |
| US08485231B2 |
Method and apparatus for dispensing liquid medicine
Disclosed in this specification is a medicine container with a flexible flap covering the opening of the container. The opening is closed by the flexible flap when the flexible flap is in a resting position and the opening is opened when the flexible flap is in a flexed position. A hand-operated plunger is equipped with an end configured to mate with the opening such that a seal is established between the plunger and the opening. The plunger is shaped to apply a force to the flexible flap, thereby operating the flexible flap. |
| US08485226B2 |
Three-way valve integrated with radiator
The present invention relates to a three-way valve that is integrally formed with an outlet of a radiator for use in a fuel cell vehicle that advantageously improves thermal management of a fuel cell stack by eliminating the need for the bypass loop of a conventional system. |
| US08485225B2 |
Flow control screen assembly having remotely disabled reverse flow control capability
A flow control screen having a flow path between the interior of a base pipe and a filter medium. A valve assembly, including a valve plug, a ball retainer, and a piston body with a collet assembly is disposed within the flow path in an opening of a housing disposed about the base pipe. The collet assembly is radially outwardly constrained by a radially reduced section of the opening in a first position preventing entry of the valve plug therein and radially outwardly unconstrained by the radially reduced section in a second position. Reverse flow is initially prevented as internal differential pressure seats the valve plug on a seat of the opening and causes the piston body to shift to the second position upon reaching a predetermined threshold. Thereafter, external differential pressure causes the valve plug to enter the piston body and contact the ball retainer, thereby allowing reverse flow. |
| US08485224B2 |
Adjustable damping valve device
An adjustable damping valve device, for a vibration damper, includes a first valve and emergency operation valve, both of which are actuated by a shared solenoid. The emergency operation valve carries out a relative movement relative to the first valve when passing from the emergency operation position into normal operation. A magnetic flux guiding element is arranged in the magnetic flux between the first valve and the emergency operation valve and determines the magnetic flux for the emergency operation valve and for the first valve. |
| US08485219B2 |
Flow rate control using mass flow rate control device
It is possible to respecify the product (mass flow controller) corresponding to multiple types of actual process gases and multiple flow rate ranges, even after the mass flow controller has been shipped. With the mass flow rate control device in an initial state, calibration gas characteristic data is derived by measuring actual flow rate versus a flow rate setting signal using a calibration gas, and this calibration gas characteristic data is then saved to control unit. Meanwhile, actual gas characteristic data is derived by measuring actual flow rate versus a flow rate setting signal for each of a plurality of types of actual gas, and this actual gas characteristic data is then saved to a storage medium. Subsequently, prior to operating the mass flow rate control device, the actual gas characteristic data for an actual process gas is read from the storage medium via a computer, and the calibration gas characteristic data that was saved to the control unit is read out. The calibration gas characteristic data is then converted to controlled flow rate correction data based on the actual gas characteristic data, and the controlled flow rate correction data is saved to the control unit. Actual gas flow rate is corrected based on this controlled flow rate correction data. |
| US08485217B2 |
Plug valve for gas stove
A plug valve for a gas stove, consisting at least of a natural-gas nozzle, a propane-gas nozzle, a valve body, a cock, an adjusting rod, an O-shaped ring, a stop ring, a spring, a stop plate, a cover, a pair of screws, and a valve rod. The adjusting rod, the O-shaped ring, and the stop ring are disposed in the cock, the cock, the spring, the stop plate, the cover, and the valve rod are disposed in the valve body via the screws, the natural-gas nozzle or the propane-gas nozzle is disposed in the valve body. Switching between natural gas and propane gas, flow adjustment thereof are convenient, and no special tool is required, which make the invention suitable for a wide range of users. The plug of he invention is safe and reliable. |
| US08485216B2 |
Flow trap with compartment separator and baffle for use in a water-free urinal
In a urine cartridge or wastewater trap, equalized pressures and increased flow rate between its inlet and outlet compartments increases the life of the cartridge. The pressure equalizing is effected by placement of a separator between the two compartments to provide them with substantially equal volumes. The increased flow rate is created by a uniquely configured baffle positioned adjacent a pan at the bottom of the cartridge. The baffle configuration is shaped to provide a constriction that increases the flow velocity of the urine so that the fluid flow effects a channel along the bottom pan and through any solids deposited on the bottom pan. A diverter may be placed above the centrally located entry to the inlet compartment to create a circuitous path for preventing a disturbing impingement of the urine onto the sealant contained in the inlet compartment. To accommodate the centrally placed entry and its placement vis-a-vis the inlet compartment, the separator is bowed at its location adjacent the entry and towards the outlet compartment. To fit the configuration of the baffle, the separator is curved generally in a likewise manner. |
| US08485215B2 |
Liquid tank venting system
Liquid tank venting system comprising a chamber that is inside the tank and that is equipped with a drainage device that comprises at least one opening made in the chamber and an elastomer-based non-return valve capable of sealing/freeing this opening, according to which this non-return valve is forced into a position for leaktight closure of the opening via a specific device starting from a certain liquid level in the tank. |
| US08485211B2 |
Subsea valve
The present invention regards a subsea valve system comprising a valve, a fluid supply line connectable to a remote fluid supply and in connection with an inlet of the valve, an outlet of the valve connectable to an outlet fluid line and a fluid tight housing at least partly enclosing the valve. According to the invention the fluid supply line comprises an outlet within the housing, establishing a pressure within the housing mainly equal to the pressure of the supply fluid at the inlet of the valve. The invention also regards a method for protecting a subsea valve system. |
| US08485209B2 |
Mosquito spring net
A collapsible mosquito spring net assembly includes a support structure having a front support ring, a back support ring, and a spring coil support. A mosquito net covers the support structure. The collapsible mosquito spring net assembly further includes closure elements and a net cover assembly including a net, an elastic element, and an elastic pull for opening and closing the spring net assembly. The collapsible mosquito spring net optionally comprises an outer lower cover. A method for protecting users from exposure to insects includes: providing a collapsible mosquito spring net assembly; setting up the mosquito spring net assembly on the floor, ground, or other surface by releasing the closure elements; and securing the net cover assembly from inside the mosquito spring net assembly by pulling taut the elastic pull. |
| US08485208B2 |
Canopy tent
The present invention relates to a connection device installed on a top of a canopy tent, comprising: a main body having a hollow interior, a sliding member having an interior with a downwardly protruding cylinder, support poles each having one end hinged to the main body, and the other end connected to a tent pole for standing the tent fabric upright, a joint bar having one end hinged to the sliding member, and the other end having one side hinged to a first connection bar hinged to the support pole and the other side hinged to a second connection bar hinged to the main body; The hollow interior of the main body is equipped with a compression spring and a spring holder. The cylinder of the sliding member is fitted into the hollow interior of the main body from the top of the hollow interior to be movable in the upward and downward directions to set up or taken of the tent canopy. |
| US08485204B2 |
Closed chamber with fluid separation feature
Selective recovery of excess process fluid from within a closed process chamber is achieved by providing a magnetically drive ring chuck and at least one process fluid collector within the closed process chamber, with the ring chuck and the fluid collector being vertically movable relative to each other. |
| US08485200B1 |
Combination light and cigar cutting blade
A combination light and cigar cutting blade that includes a housing having a first housing piece and a second housing piece that mates with the first housing piece when the housing pieces are assembled; a light source disposed in said first housing piece; at least one battery coupled with the light source; a switch mounted on the first housing piece coupled with the light source and battery, and having opposed positions for either activating the light source or turning the light source off; a cutting blade having an annular cutting blade surface; and an activating button mounted on the second housing piece for operating the cutting blade between a nested position in which the cutting blade is disposed within the second housing piece, and an extended position in which the cutting blade is extended from the second housing piece. |
| US08485196B2 |
Female condom
An improved female condom apparatus includes a pouch that has a wall, an open end, a closed end and a frame. The frame is positioned proximate the open end of the pouch and extends around a perimeter of the open end. An anchoring device is located within the pouch proximate the closed end to secure the condom in position during use. A harness includes a center strap and may include side straps. One end of each strap is secured to the open end of the pouch. Further, one or more of the straps may be detachable from the pouch. At least the center strap may be constructed of a resilient and/or pliable material. As such, during use the center strap extends between a user's legs and resiliently engages the user's back in a clamping or tensioning action. This clamping action assists in securing the condom in position during use. |
| US08485195B2 |
Dynamic cradle, especially for treating head and neck pain
The present invention discloses an apparatus for treating patient body or an organ thereof, especially his/her head and neck, by controllably maneuvering said treated organ, comprising; cradle adapted for holding said treated organ stably and comfortably; and, a maneuverable platform upon which said cradle rests, comprising maneuvering means adapted for rotating the platform in the Sagittal, Coronal, Horizontal planes or in any combination of the planes thereof for a predetermined duration; wherein said maneuver of said organ is characterized by parameters selected from the Allowed Movements. It is especially in the scope of the invention wherein the treated organ is maneuvered in a lobular three dimensional manner. The invention also discloses methods for treating patient body or an organ thereof by this apparatus; methods for decreasing HIT, MIDAS, VAS/NRS, NDI and EPS, and a method for increasing (S)MFA. |
| US08485192B2 |
Cushion for patient interface
A cushion for a patient interface that delivers breathable gas to a patient includes a base wall structured to be connected to a frame, an underlying support cushion extending away from the base wall towards the patient's face in use, and a membrane provided to substantially cover at least a portion of the underlying cushion. The membrane is adapted to form a continuous seal on the patient's face. The underlying cushion has a spring-like connection with the base wall. The underlying cushion and/or base wall define a spring constant that varies along a length of the seal. |
| US08485180B2 |
Dry powder drug delivery system
A pulmonary drug delivery system is disclosed, including a breath-powered, dry powder inhaler, and a cartridge for delivering a dry powder formulation. The inhaler and cartridge can be provided with a drug delivery formulation comprising, for example, a diketopiperazine and an active ingredient, including, peptides and proteins such as insulin and glucagon-like peptide 1 for the treatment of endocrine disease, for example, diabetes and/or obesity. |
| US08485175B1 |
Heater with catalyst and combustion zone
A forced air heater is described having a plurality of combustion zones and an interceding cooling zone with active cooling devices. Catalytic oxidation may be implemented in the combustion zone whereby efficiency is increased by cooling the combustion products and outflow to more efficient temperatures. The catalytic bed of the combustion zone may be placed downstream of the cooling and primary combustion zone to remove noxious combustion by-products and an afterburner may also be included. |
| US08485174B2 |
Ball launcher
The present invention generally relates to an automated ball launching method and apparatus. The apparatus includes ball pick and place mechanisms, an air cannon, spin and velocity inducing belt drive assemblies, electric leveling jack stands, electric angle linear drive, and a computer control system. The apparatus is capable of automatically controlling ball spin, velocity, and launch angle. |
| US08485167B2 |
Abnormality detection apparatus and abnormality detection method for air/fuel ratio sensor
An abnormality detection apparatus includes: an air/fuel ratio control portion that performs a control of fluctuating the air/fuel ratio between rich and lean states; a data acquisition portion that acquires, as data for detecting abnormality, a parameter that corresponds to responsiveness during change of output of the A/F sensor between rich and lean peaks during the control; a straight line setting portion that sets a straight line that represents a tendency of change of the parameter relative to change in intake air amount of the engine based on the data acquired by performing acquisition of the data a plurality of times; and an abnormality determination portion that determines the presence/absence of abnormality of the A/F sensor based on comparison between the gradient of the set straight line and an abnormality criterion value. |
| US08485165B2 |
Fuel control system and associated method
A fuel control system for controlling the purging of alternate fuel in an internal combustion engine at shutdown includes: at least one valve device configured to deliver a fuel supply to the engine; a first fuel source configured to provide a primary fuel to the valve device; a second fuel source configured to provide an alternate fuel to the valve device; and a controller connected to the valve device and adapted to be connected to an ignition system. The controller is configured to control the valve device responsive to a status of one of the engine and the ignition system. |
| US08485164B2 |
Oil mist separator
A crankcase ventilation oil mist separator system, comprising: a first separator unit, which has at least one filter body arranged in a blow-by gas path such that blow-by gas flows through the body; a second separator unit which is arranged in a bypass path that bypasses the first separator unit; and a bypass valve which opens the bypass path when a differential pressure in the first separator unit exceeds a predefined value, wherein the second separator unit is an impactor separator. |
| US08485163B2 |
Apparatus for improving efficiency and emissions of combustion
An apparatus improves the efficiency and emissions of a combustion process by producing sufficient amounts of ozone in the air flow to the combustion chamber to enable more complete and cleaner combustion of the fuel. The apparatus may include a plurality of cell elements disposed within a housing that is in placed in the air intake to a combustion chamber such as a diesel engine. The cell elements create an electrical plasma field that produces ozone. The apparatus may also include a scrubber in the housing to cause the air flow to have a vortex action to increase the amount of ozone that flows into the combustion chamber. |
| US08485162B2 |
Plasma apparatus using a valve
Provided is a plasma apparatus using a valve, which comprises a discharge device with an electrode exposed to the combustion chamber installed in a cylinder head, an antenna installed on the valve face of a valve head, an electromagnetic wave transmission line installed in a valve stem with one end connected to the antenna and the other end covered with an insulator or dielectric and extending to a power-receiving portion positioned at a location fitting into the guide hole in the valve stem, and an electromagnetic wave generator for feeding an electromagnetic waves to the power-receiving portion. At the compression stroke when the combustion chamber side opening of an intake port or an exhaust port is closed with the valve head, discharge is generated with the electrode of the discharge device and the electromagnetic waves fed from the electromagnetic wave generator through the electromagnetic wave transmission line are radiated from the antenna. |
| US08485161B2 |
Opposed piston, compression ignition engine with single-side mounted crankshafts and crossheads
In an opposed piston, compression ignition engine two crankshafts are single-side mounted with respect to a row of cylinders, which is to say that the crankshafts are mounted so that their axes of rotation lie in a plane that is spaced apart from and parallel to a plane in which the axes of the cylinders lie. Each piston of the engine is coupled to one of the crankshafts by a single linkage guided by a crosshead. The piston has a piston rod affixed at one end to the piston. The other end of the piston rod is affixed to the crosshead pin. One end of a connecting rod swings on the pin and the other end is coupled to a throw on a crankshaft. Each crosshead is constrained to reciprocate between fixed guides, in alignment with the piston rod to which it is coupled. |
| US08485158B2 |
Method to control a gas engine system thereof
A method to control a gas engine system is disclosed, whereby the engine can be operated with an air-fuel-ratio controlled with high precision, even in using a low calorific fuel-gas that is prone to vary in calorific value; the engine system includes: a first gas line toward each cylinder via a first gas valve from a gas supply source line, the first gas valve regulating flow rates of the fuel-gas through a gas compressor on the line; a second gas line toward suction air, the line being branched from the gas supply source line and the line being provided with a gas air mixer and a second gas valve on the line. In the case when the fuel-gas is of a low calorific value or where the output of the engine is high, a part of the fuel-gas is supplied to the engine through the first and second lines. The mixer forms a mixture of a prescribed mixing ratio that is leaner than a lower limit of flammability of the fuel-gas, while the remaining fuel-gas through the first line is supplied to the mixture just before each cylinder so that a final prescribed air fuel ratio is formed.In the case when the calorific value of the fuel-gas is high, or of high engine output, the whole fuel-gas can be supplied only through the first gas line. |
| US08485148B2 |
Method and device for controlling a hydraulic actuator
A method, device, and control unit for controlling an actuator in open loop, particularly for a valve, preferably for a gas-exchange valve of an internal combustion engine, having at least one control valve for opening the valve and one control valve for closing the valve, each of the control valves being capable of being driven by at least one drive pulse whose duration determines a position on the positioning travel of the valve. The valve is opened/closed in one lift and/or a plurality of partial lifts and at least one drive pulse is assigned to each lift and/or each partial lift, and the valve is assigned at least one transducer which generates a signal that discloses values of a discrete positioning travel of the valve and of an assigned time and/or of a discrete instant and of an assigned positioning travel. The method for controlling the actuator includes: a. Starting of a drive pulse having a setpoint duration of the drive pulse for opening and/or closing the valve, b. Generating at least one signal, and c. Correcting the setpoint duration of the drive pulse and/or of a following drive pulse assigned to the lift and/or to a partial lift, in accordance with the signal. |
| US08485142B2 |
Internal combustion engine cooling system and method for determining failure therein
An internal combustion engine cooling system includes: an internal combustion engine; a water pump for circulating a fluid; a flow path for the fluid circulated at least between the internal combustion engine and the water pump; a first sensor disposed on the flow path through which the fluid flows from the internal combustion engine to the water pump; a first flow path provided with a fluid cooling means; a second flow path provided with a heat exchange means; a first valve provided on the flow path and configured to control inflow amounts of the fluid into the first flow path and the second flow path; a second valve provided on the second flow path and configured to control inflow of the fluid into the second flow path; and a controller for performing failure determination of the second valve based on a detection result of the first sensor. |
| US08485140B2 |
Fuel combustion method and system
A method and system for treating a combustible fluid and operating a combustion system, where the combustible fluid is introduced into an electrolysis cell, electrochemically activated in the electrolysis cell, and combusted in a combustion-based engine. |
| US08485135B2 |
Livestock brushing devices
A brushing device for brushing livestock has an oblong brush (2) that can be set in motion by a motor (6). A carrying means for carrying the brush comprises at least one flexible element (10a, 10b). In the absence of a force acting externally upon the brush (2), the brush (2) has a substantially vertical orientation. The at least one flexible element (10a, 10b) of the carrying means permits a swivelling of the brush (2), through a force acting externally upon it, to a substantially horizontal orientation of the brush (2). The at least one flexible element (10a, 10b) is oblong and tubular. |
| US08485129B2 |
Teat rubber and milking cup with a ventilation nozzle
To improve the transportation away of the milk within an arrangement comprising a teat rubber and a milk hose which has a curved section, wherein the arrangement has a flow path for conducting away milked milk, which flow path is connected to the surrounding atmosphere via a channel, it is proposed that the channel is designed in such a manner that the flow direction of the air flowing through the channel into the flow path of the milk corresponds essentially to the flow direction of the milk, and the channel is formed in one of the walls of the curved section. |
| US08485128B2 |
Movable ground ring for a plasma processing chamber
A movable ground ring of a movable substrate support assembly is described. The movable ground ring is configured to fit around and provide an RF return path to a fixed ground ring of the movable substrate support assembly in an adjustable gap capacitively-coupled plasma processing chamber wherein a semiconductor substrate supported in the substrate support assembly undergoes plasma processing. |
| US08485125B2 |
Electrostatic spraying arrangement
A transformer arrangement is disclosed for an electrostatic sprayer or in an adjacent moving element of a coating machine. A transformer provides a galvanic isolation between the line arrangement provided for supplying power to the sprayer arrangement, and consumers at high voltage in the sprayer or possibly in the robot arm. This isolation may be provided with an isolating transformer which has a sufficient isolation distance or other isolation device between the primary and secondary circuits. |
| US08485122B2 |
Gluing unit and method of applying adhesive to opening devices for gluing to sealed packages of pourable food products
There is described a gluing unit (1) for applying adhesive to a succession of opening devices (3) to be fitted to respective sealed packages of pourable food products, the unit (1) having: conveying means (20) for feeding the opening devices (3) along a path (A); and adhesive dispensing means (21) located along the path (A) and interacting with each opening device (3) on the conveying means (20) to apply the adhesive to a portion (10) of the opening device (3); and the unit (1) being characterized in that the dispensing means (21) are movable parallel to the path (A), so as to increase output of the unit (1). |
| US08485121B2 |
Coating tool for applying a fluid film onto a substrate
The invention relates to a coating tool for applying a fluid film onto a substrate, wherein disposed upstream of a slot nozzle (1) for producing a fluid film, said nozzle extending substantially across the entirety of a first width (B1) of the coating tool in unbroken fashion, is a distribution space (7) for distributing the fluid over a second width (B2) of the slot nozzle (1), wherein at least one channel (6) for feeding fluid is provided upstream of the distribution space (7), said channel having a third width (B3), and wherein the third width (B3) is smaller than the second width (B2). To avoid an uneven throughput of material across the width of the slot, it is proposed according to the invention that a plurality of feed channels (9) be disposed in the distribution space (7), said channels having a cross sectional area that increases in the direction of flow (S). |
| US08485120B2 |
Method and apparatus for wafer electroless plating
A semiconductor wafer electroless plating apparatus includes a platen and a fluid bowl. The platen has a top surface defined to support a wafer, and an outer surface extending downward from a periphery of the top surface to a lower surface of the platen. The fluid bowl has an inner volume defined by an interior surface so as to receive the platen, and wafer to be supported thereon, within the inner volume. A seal is disposed around the interior surface of the fluid bowl so as to form a liquid tight barrier when engaged between the interior surface of the fluid bowl and the outer surface of the platen. A number of fluid dispense nozzles are positioned to dispense electroplating solution within the fluid bowl above the seal so as to rise up and flow over the platen, thereby flowing over the wafer when present on the platen. |
| US08485118B2 |
Submarine with a propulsion drive with an electric motor ring
In one aspect, a submarine with a boat hull and a propulsion drive for the submarine the propulsion drive is arranged outside the boat hull and comprises a housing and a first electric motor, with the housing embodying a channel for a flow of water through the channel in a main direction of flow from an inlet to an outlet of the channel, and with the first electric motor featuring a rotor which is arranged in the channel and is supported rotatably around an axis of rotation in the housing, with the rotor being embodied in the shape of a ring with a ring inner side and a ring outer side, and with blades for propelling the submarine being arranged on the ring inner side of the rotor. |
| US08485117B2 |
Anchor retrieval device, system and method
A method, system and device for facilitating the retrieval of a marine anchor from an underwater obstruction, the device being configured to actuate when subjected to a force load of a predetermined peak force threshold to effect a change in the point of retrieval that an anchor rode makes with the anchor. The obstructed anchor may be retrieved from another direction, such as a direction opposite from which the anchor was set. |
| US08485114B2 |
Needle plate and sewing machine
A needle plate includes a first needle plate secured on a bed and a second needle plate detachably attached to the first needle plate. An engagement mechanism includes an engagement member formed at the first needle plate and an engagement subject member formed at the second needle plate, and retains the second needle plate with the first needle plate through engagement of the engagement member and the engagement subject member. A switching element switches positioning of the second needle plate relative to the first needle plate, wherein when in a first position, the second needle plate is secured in contact with the first needle plate with the engagement mechanism engaged, and when in a second position, the second needle plate is distanced from the first needle plate. |
| US08485111B2 |
Table and table system
A table is used in combination with another table having a circular top plate in a top view. The table comprises a top plate on a top surface of which an article can be placed and a support portion that supports the top plate from a lower surface side of the top plate. At least a part of a peripheral edge of the top plate is provided with a contact portion which is formed into a shape so as to contact a peripheral edge of the circular top plate of another table along a circumferential direction of the circular top plate. |
| US08485110B2 |
Apparatus for controlling discharge of material from a railroad hopper car
An apparatus for controlling the discharge of materials from a railcar having a hopper carried on a mobile frame. The hopper defines a longitudinally disposed discharge opening. The railcar has a door pivotally mounted for movement between an open position and a closed position relative to the discharge opening. The apparatus for controlling the discharge of materials from the railcar includes an operating shaft and a drive operably coupled between the door and the operating shaft for causing the door to move from the closed position toward the open position in response to rotation of the operating shaft. The drive also includes a lost motion connection for protecting the operating shaft as the door freely pivots toward the open position during collapsing movement of the lost motion connection and after the operating shaft has been rotated a predetermined amount to open the door. |
| US08485109B2 |
Method for minimizing tread damage and profile wear of wheels of a railway vehicle
A method for minimizing tread damage and profile wear of wheels of a railway vehicle is provided. The railway vehicle includes two sets of wheels, or a bogie of a railway vehicle with two sets of wheels, wherein setpoint values for parameters characterizing the position of a wheel relative to the track are determined based on measured values of a variable parameter relevant for the creation of tread damage and profile wear during the movement of the railway vehicle, on condition that the tread damage and profile wear on the wheels of the railway vehicle are minimized, wherein the position of one set of wheels is adjusted according to the setpoint values by means of actuation, control, or a combination of both. |
| US08485105B2 |
Devices and systems for stopping travel of a railcar
Devices and systems for stopping travel of a railcar along rails is provided, the railcar having wheel treads that ride on the rails. A railcar stop is configured to engage at least one wheel tread of the railcar to stop travel of the railcar along the rails. The railcar stop extends above the rails at a first height prior to engagement with a wheel tread and extends above the rails at a second, greater height after engagement with the wheel tread. |
| US08485100B2 |
Ammunition
Provided is ammunition capable of increasing the movement velocity and shooting range of a bullet and enhancing the target hitting rate. The ammunition includes a case having a propellant chamber and a front mouth, a propellant charged into the propellant chamber of the case, a primer installed in the case for exploding the propellant when a physical or electrical impact is applied thereto, a bullet arranged in the front mouth of the case, the bullet having a streamlined tail portion for reduction of air resistance when the bullet is shot, and a wad fitted to the front mouth of the case for removably holding the bullet and closing the front mouth, the wad being separable from the bullet during explosion of the propellant. |
| US08485099B2 |
Mine defeat system and pyrotechnic dart for same
The invention provides a method and a system for defeating a target containing a flammable or explosive fill and an incendiary penetrating projectile for use in the method and the system. The incendiary penetrating projectile contains a non-detonating incendiary composition that is ignited prior to penetrating a target. |
| US08485095B2 |
Device and method for measuring and setting the web tension between inking stations of a multicolor press
A device for measuring and setting the web tension on a printing press with several inking units (Dn) has measuring means (Mm,n) for measuring the web tension and setting means (Fn) for setting the web tension, using which the web tension can be set actively in the case of unsteady web tension conditions.The measuring means (Mm,n) and the setting means (Fn) are disposed in such a manner that the web tension can be measured and set between the print areas of two inking units. A control device is provided, which controls the setting means based on the measured values of the measuring means (Mm,n). |
| US08485088B2 |
Cooling channel piston for an internal combustion engine and method for the production thereof
A method for producing a one-piece, lightweight piston consisting of steel and having a small compression depth (S) forms piston with at least one cavity in a shaft aperture region. A piston blank is produced in a first step using a forging or casting method. To form a cooling channel between an annular region and a combustion chamber recess an annular section is formed in one piece onto the wall of a cooling channel in the vicinity of the piston base. The joint produced between the annular section and an outer wall of the cooling channel is sealed by welding. |
| US08485084B1 |
Multi-axial explosive, laterally-shearing, reactive mechanism
Reactive armor that includes a casing having a plurality of walls, a back, and a cavity formed therebetween; a cover that closes the cavity and forms a strike face; a filler placed within the cavity, the filler comprising a disruptive material; and an explosive. To defeat projectile or projectile related threats, the reactive armor substantially, but not necessarily wholly, implements laterally oriented force mechanisms, erosion mechanisms, and bulking mechanisms, e.g., explosive forces, with respect to the strike face. |
| US08485080B2 |
Cutting unit for cutting sheet material
A cutting unit (1) for cutting sheet material (13), the cutting unit comprising a sheet support (2) and at least one roll cutting device (4) associated with a sheet support (2), the roll cutting device comprising a support rail (5), at which a cutting carriage (6) is movably supported, the cutting carriage comprising a blade support (20), which is rotatably supported about an axis parallel to the support rail (5) and rotatable by hand, and at which blade support at least two disk blades (36, 37, 38) are supported freely rotatable about blade axes. The support rail has two support bars (56, 57) and the blade support has at least two support grooves (45, 46, 47). The two support bars engage the two support grooves to lock one of the at least two disk blades in a cutting position. |
| US08485075B1 |
Electronic torque wrench
A torque wrench for use in driving fasteners is provided. The wrench includes an electronics unit disposed within a body of the wrench that is capable of sensing and measuring the torque applied to a fastener by the wrench and providing an output of the level of torque to the user. The electronics unit is also disposed within a barrier in the body that isolates the unit from the exterior environment around the wrench. The data sensed by the electronics unit can be utilized to provide feedback to the user regarding the operation of the wrench, and to monitor the overall operation of the wrench for calibration purposes, among other functions. During use, the wrench can provide the user with visual, audible and tactile feedback regarding the operation of the device relative to stored maximum torque values stored in the electronics unit. |
| US08485073B1 |
Viper crescent wrench device
A viper crescent wrench device for holding a work piece is provided. Upon squeezing a second handle toward a first handle, a first pawl and a second pawl move an adjusting bar toward the first handle thereby moving a second jaw portion toward a first jaw portion. Upon releasing the second handle, the first pawl and the second pawl releasably lock into place and the second handle readjusts relative to the first pawl thereby repositioning to do the same action again when the second handle is squeezed again until the work piece is secured between the first jaw portion and the second jaw portion. Upon rotation of a release mechanism, toothed notches are rotated out of contact with the first pawl and the second pawl such that the second jaw portion moves away from the first jaw portion under bias of a first spring thereby releasing the work piece. |
| US08485071B2 |
Self-clamping wrench with push-button latch release
A wrench has an elongated handle pivotally connected to a first clamping jaw which is pivotally connected to a second clamping jaw, The wrench has a spring-loaded latch that locks the second clamping jaw to the first clamping jaw. The spring-loaded latch is disengaged by actuating a push-button release mechanism disposed within the handle that causes the spring-loaded latch to pivot to release the second clamping jaw. This press-button release mechanism enables single-handed operation of the wrench. Accordingly, a user can hold and operate two wrenches simultaneously which is not possible with the prior-art wrenches. In other words, the user may clamp a first self-clamping wrench to a tube, pipe, or other such object and then, with only one hand, clamp a second self-clamping wrench to the same tube, pipe, or object. |
| US08485070B2 |
T-handle wrench
The present invention generally relates to a T-Handle wrench. In one aspect, a wrench is provided that includes a shaped handle. The wrench further includes a plurality of jaws operatively attached to the handle. The wrench also includes a sleeve member disposed around the jaws. Additionally, the wrench includes a push button assembly configured to move the sleeve member relative to the jaws, wherein the movement of the sleeve member causes the jaws to move between a retracted position and an extended position. In another aspect, a method of operating a wrench is provided. |
| US08485068B2 |
Ratcheting wrench
A wrench having a handle and ratchet assembly and a socket wheel. The handle and ratchet assembly has a handle and a first drive member that is rotatable relative to the handle. The socket wheel has a plurality of tool members, a plurality of first lugs and a plurality of second lugs. Each tool member is fixedly coupled to a pair of the first lugs and a pair of the second lugs. An adjacent pair of the tool members share a single one of the second lugs and no adjacent pair of the tool members shares any of the first lugs. |
| US08485064B2 |
Composite wave gear drive
In a composite wave gear drive, a flexspline (having a number of teeth Nf) is disposed on the inner side of first and second circular splines (numbers of teeth Nc1 and Nc2, respectively). One side of the flexspline is bent into an elliptical shape by a first wave generator, the other side of the flexspline is bent into an elliptical shape by a second wave generator, and the flexspline meshes with the first and second circular splines. The first wave generator is a rotational input component, the second wave generator is a reduced-speed rotational output component, and the first and second circular splines are kept from rotating. The number of teeth is set such that Nc2=Nc1+2 and Nc1=Nf+2. A backlash-free gear drive having a low reduction ratio can be obtained. |
| US08485063B2 |
Device for assembling/disassembling bicycle pedals and assembly for controlling assembling/disassembling by one step
A device for disassembling and assembling bicycle pedals comprises a bicycle crank (1), detachable pedals (17) connected with the crank (1), a fixing seat (11) arranged at an end of the crank (1), a control device arranged at the fixing seat (11) and a connection assembly between a pedal (17) and the control device. The control device also comprises an unlocking mechanism, a pushing mechanism and a rotating mechanism, wherein the pushing mechanism and the rotating mechanism are controlled by a gear mechanism. The device can conveniently and quickly disassembling and assembling bicycle pedals by one step without touching the pedals with hands. |
| US08485057B1 |
Push-pull control utilizing linear and rotational input
Push-pull controls utilizing linear and rotational inputs to create linear output are disclosed. One control includes an elongate push rod and a roller pin. The rod has an outer surface, a generally circular cross-section perimeter, a center axis, a proximal end with a user input, and a distal end configured to directly or indirectly interact with an apparatus to be controlled. The rod is rotatable and slidable along the rod axis. The roller pin has a center axis and an outer surface that contacts the push rod outer surface. The roller pin center axis is angularly offset from and non-intersecting with the push rod center axis. The amount of angular offset is greater than zero degrees. |
| US08485056B2 |
Dual clutch multi-speed transmission
A transmission includes an input member, an output transfer gear, first and second shaft members, a countershaft or layshaft, a reverse shaft member, a plurality of co-planar gear sets, and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. The torque transmitting devices include a plurality of synchronizer assemblies and a dual clutch assembly. The transmission is operable to provide at least one reverse speed ratio and a plurality of forward speed ratios between the input member and the output transfer gear. |
| US08485054B2 |
Electrically driven linear actuator
An electrically driven linear actuator has an actuator body with a ball screw to convert a rotational motion to a linear motion. An electric motor provides the rotational motion. A gear mechanism transmits rotational motion of the electric motor to the ball screw of the actuator body. A position holding mechanism holds the position of the ball screw of the actuator body by engaging teeth, specifically a space between adjacent teeth, of a gear forming the gear mechanism. |
| US08485053B2 |
Inertial stabilizer system
The illustrative embodiments provide a method and apparatus for stabilizing an electronic rack structure. In one embodiment the apparatus comprises an enclosure with a user interface panel. The apparatus also comprises a gyroscope, sensor system and controller attached within an enclosure. A sensor system associated with the gyroscope is capable of detecting a tilt of an electronic rack structure. A controller is also located within the enclosure and is capable of detecting the tilt of the electronic rack structure and controlling an orientation of the gyroscope to counter the tilt of the electronic rack structure in response to detecting the tilt. In another illustrative embodiment, a method for stabilizing an electronic rack structure is provided. |
| US08485051B2 |
Apparatus and method for testing an aircraft pedal system
An apparatus (10) for testing an aircraft pedal system (12) comprises a pedal actuation device (14) for actuating an aircraft pedal (12′, 12″), a force sensor (26) for sensing an actuation force applied to the aircraft pedal (12′, 12″) upon actuation of the aircraft pedal (12′, 12″) and for providing a signal indicative of the actuation force, a deflection sensing device (28, 30) for sensing an angular deflection of a device (12′, 12″; 13) deflected in response to the actuation of the aircraft pedal (12′, 12″), and a control unit (32) adapted to process the signals of the force sensor (26) and the deflection sensing device (28, 30) so as to generate an output indicating the angular deflection of the device (12′, 12″; 13) deflected in response to the actuation of the aircraft pedal (12′, 12″) in dependence on the actuation force applied to the aircraft pedal (12′, 12″). |
| US08485047B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring a quantity of milk yielded by an animal during a milking process
An apparatus for measuring a quantity of milk yielded by an animal during a milking process comprises a container, a supply unit, a discharge unit, a filling level measuring device, a control unit and an evaluation unit. The supply unit is configured to feed milk into the container and can be connected to the milking unit of a milking machine. The discharge unit is configured to discharge milk from the container and can be connected to the milking line of the milking machine, which is adapted to have applied thereto a milking vacuum. The discharge unit comprises the means for changing the size of a discharge opening through which the milk flows when it is being discharged from the container. The discharge opening allowing milk to flow through the discharge opening can be adjusted to at least two sizes. The filling level measuring device is configured to measure a filling level of the milk in the container. The control unit is configured to control the means for changing the size of the discharge opening in dependence on the milk level in the container determined by the filling level measuring device, in order to adjust a size of the discharge opening such that the filling level remains within a predetermined range. The evaluation unit is configured to calculate a milk flow into the container on the basis of the set size of the discharge opening and of the filling level measured by the filling level measuring device. |
| US08485041B2 |
Sensor system, method for operating a sensor system, and method for manufacturing a sensor system
A sensor system, e.g., a pressure sensor system, includes a substrate having at least one trench on a first side. The trench is provided for forming a first diaphragm region on a second side opposite from the first side. In addition, a second diaphragm region and a cavern are integrated into the material of the first diaphragm region. |
| US08485034B2 |
Acoustic confocal interferometry microscope
A Confocal Interferometry microscope for use with a suitably selected acoustic emitter and acoustic detector for providing three-dimensional information on the state of an object is presented. The microscope has a coherent wavelength source for producing a coherent beam, scanning means for moving said coherent beam in a suitably selected pattern, and means for producing and focusing an object beam and an interference beam to an object focal point and an interference focal point, respectively. The object beam has a transmission path of essentially the same length of the transmission path of the interference beam. The object beam intercepts an object at the object focal point while the interference beam passes by the object. There are also means for defining the object beam and the interference beam based on the position of the object focal point and the geometry of the convergence angles and means for producing an interference pattern between the object focal point and the interference focal point. |
| US08485026B2 |
Microfluidic method for measuring thermo-physical properties of a reservoir fluid
A method of measuring thermo-physical properties of a reservoir fluid includes introducing the fluid under pressure into a microchannel, establishing a stabilized flow of the fluid through the microchannel, inducing bubble formation in the fluid disposed in the microchannel, and determining the thermo-physical properties of the fluid based upon the bubbles formed as the fluid flows through the microchannel. |
| US08485024B2 |
Device and methods for use of a dynamic cone penetrometer for evaluating soil compaction
The present invention includes a device and method for more particularly evaluating the compaction of soil by automating the use of a prior art dynamic cone penetrometer such that user error and error caused by field conditions are eliminated. Recordation of penetrometer data previously not recorded is made more precise by the present invention such that standardized measurement results. The device further includes means for facilitating the determination of compaction of soils through keyhole openings and a means for automating the collection and processing of the generated compaction data. |
| US08485020B2 |
Semivolatile organic chemical sampling and extraction transfer method and apparati
One way of practicing the method of the invention is to follow these steps, not necessarily in the disclosed sequence: (1) providing a hot gas spike apparatus to load one or more diffusion denuders with a compound selected from the group consisting of a calibration standard, an internal standard, and a surrogate standard compound in a solvent carrier; (2) pulling one or more samples of ambient atmosphere through at least one of the diffusion denuders in a multicapillary collection device; (3) extracting analytes from at least one of the diffusion denuders in an analyte transfer apparatus or from a filter using an extraction device; (4) optionally cleaning up gaseous extracts or extracts of filters using chromatography, and transferring the collected analytes into an analytical device. To practice the method, an apparatus is disclosed that has a hot gas spike component, a high-flow multicapillary collection device and an analyte transfer apparatus. |
| US08485018B2 |
Method of determining falling state of falling body for viscometer of falling body type, falling-body velocity measuring sensor, and viscometer of falling body type including same
A technique used to determine a falling state of a falling body, such as whether the falling body reaches a falling termination speed and falls uniformly or falls with a change in the speed is provided. In particular, a method of determining a falling state of a falling body passing through a measured substance inserted into a measuring container is provided, the method including: measuring a first elapsed time which is a time interval between extreme values of two potentials generated in a first coil pair when the falling body passes through the first coil pair and a second elapsed time which is a time interval between extreme values of two potentials generated in a second coil pair when the falling body passes through the second coil pair; and determining the falling state of the falling body by comparing the first elapsed time with the second elapsed time. |
| US08485016B2 |
Method of calibrating a biometric device
A method of calibrating a biometric device useful to measure a target dimension of a physiological tissue is provided comprising the steps of: measuring the target dimension of at least two samples of a reference material with the device to provide an actual output, wherein the reference material possesses at least one property of the tissue required for the function of the device and wherein each of the samples has a known target dimension; calculating a calibration equation based on the actual output of the device and the known target dimensions of the samples; and adjusting the actual output of the device according to the calibration equation to yield a corrected output. The calibration method provides a means of obtaining accurate tissue measurements. Also provided is a method of using a biometric device to measure a target dimension of a physiological tissue which incorporates calibration. |
| US08485012B2 |
Cold rolling method for manufacturing a profile
A cold rolling method for manufacturing a profile (16) from a one-piece rolling stock in form of initial material (6; 56) with a plurality of rolls (26, 36, 46; 6, 76, 86) each having a deforming region (28, 38, 48; 68, 78, 88) for deforming the initial material (6; 56) includes bending the initial material (6; 56) with formation at least one folded section (8) extending in a rolling direction of the initial material (6; 56), and deforming the initial material (6; 56) in its width direction with reduction of its thickness at least in one region. |
| US08485007B2 |
Key organizing device
An organizing device including housing, cover, and sliding mechanism. The housing includes a cavity, at least one open end and at least one sliding mechanism opening extending in the longitudinal direction along the housing for receiving and retaining at least part of the sliding mechanism within the housing. The cover is removeably attached over the open end of the housing. Sliding mechanism includes an actuation portion or thumb actuator and mounting portion for mounting a key or other user device. The mounting portion of the sliding mechanism is positioned inside cavity of the housing and the actuation portion of the sliding mechanism extends though the sliding mechanism opening in the housing. In one implementation, the mounting mechanism may be permanently or removeably fixed to the user device. In the case of a key, the mounting mechanism may be mounted to the key blade to form the modified key. The sliding mechanism is movable longitudinally along the housing to retract and extend the user device in and out of one end of the housing. |
| US08485006B2 |
Disc tumbler cylinder lock and key combination
A combination includes a disc tumbler cylinder lock and key. The disc tumbler cylinder lock of the combination comprises a rotation limiter of the key, and the key comprises guidance surfaces for the rotation limiter. The rotation limiter comprises a frame, which comprises a key profile opening, and a casing, which at least partially surrounds the frame. The frame comprises a limiting mechanism and a locking mechanism, which are disposed in a line such that the limiting mechanism is on the other side of the key profile opening and the locking mechanism is on the opposite side of the key profile opening. |
| US08485005B2 |
Computer lock
The present invention discloses a computer lock including a lock body, a guide seat, a lock tongue seat, a spring, a hook cylinder, and a cable rope set. The hook cylinder has a hook part extending outwards from the front end thereof. The hook part is arranged at inner wall of a slot of a computer; by lock actuation of a key, the guide seat is actuated to guide the lock tongue of the lock tongue seat to outstretch forward and enter the slot along the guide groove on the front end of the hook cylinder. By the foregoing mechanism, the computer lock is of being easy operation and can be locked and unlocked conveniently to prevent the computer from being stolen. |
| US08485003B2 |
Ironing appliance comprising a steam cord provided with a rotary connector
Steam wrinkle-removing appliance including a steam-producing base in which the steam can freely flow out through a hose to a wrinkle-removing tool such as a steam brush, characterized in that the hose is connected to the base by a swivel connector fitted into an adapted housing of the base and in that the steam tightness of the swivel connector is ensured by at least one circular rib (122A, 124) borne by the housing or by the connector, the circular rib (122A, 124) being fitted into a corresponding circular groove (80, 81), respectively provided in the connector or the housing, the width of the groove (80, 81) being slightly greater than the width of the rib so as to result in a gap allowing the connector to rotate freely in the housing. |
| US08484999B2 |
Water-conducting domestic appliance comprising an expansion opening
A water-conducting domestic appliance, in particular a domestic dishwasher, the water-conducting domestic appliance including a washing compartment for receiving items therein that are to be subjected to a handling process by the water-conducting domestic appliance; and a detergent dosing system, the detergent dosing system having a detergent dispenser, the detergent dispenser being configured to receive at least one cartridge that is configured to hold a dosing agent, the detergent dosing system being configured to communicate the washing compartment and an area surrounding the water-conducting domestic appliance with one another in the manner of an expansion opening via which a fluid under pressure in the washing compartment can be released to the area surrounding the water-conducting domestic appliance. |
| US08484997B2 |
Method for producing a cylinder of quartz glass using a holding device and appropriate holding device for performing the method
A known method for producing a cylinder of quartz glass comprises a method step in which a porous SiO2 body comprising a central inner bore, a lower end and an upper end is sintered in a sintering furnace zone by zone, starting from the upper end, to obtain the quartz glass cylinder, a holding device being used by means of which the SiO2 body is held standing in vertical orientation during a first sintering phase and suspended in a second sintering phase. Starting therefrom, to indicate a method by means of which even heavy bodies of porous SiO2 can be reliably held during sintering, it is suggested according to the invention that the holding device comprises a fusion body of quartz glass which is arranged in the area of the upper end in the inner bore and which in the course of the first sintering phase fuses with the quartz glass of the SiO2 body and which during the second sintering phase is in operative interaction with a holding element of the holding device and together with said element contributes to a suspended holding of the SiO2 body to be sintered. |
| US08484995B2 |
Glass manufacturing apparatuses with particulate removal devices and methods of using the same
Glass manufacturing apparatuses with particulate removal devices and methods for using the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a fusion draw machine for forming a glass web from molten glass includes an enclosure and a first pull roll and a second pull roll rotatably positioned in an interior of an enclosure. The first pull roll and the second pull roll cooperate to draw a glass web in a draw direction. A particulate removal device for removing particulate matter from the interior of the enclosure is fluidly coupled to the enclosure and includes a vacuum nozzle disposed in the interior of the enclosure and fluidly coupled to a vacuum source with a vacuum line. A particulate filter is fluidly coupled to the vacuum nozzle and the vacuum source and traps particulate matter exhausted from the interior of the enclosure through the vacuum nozzle. |
| US08484990B2 |
Optimization of air cooled chiller system operation
A method is provided for operating a refrigerant vapor compression system, for example an air-cooled chiller or air-cooled condensing unit, at optimal energy efficiency rating. The method includes the steps of: determining the instantaneous values of a plurality of selected operating parameters of the system's refrigeration unit, calculating a desired control parameter set point indicative of an optimal energy efficiency rating for the refrigeration unit as a function of the selected operating parameters, sensing the instantaneous value of the control parameter, comparing the sensed instantaneous value of the control parameter to the calculated control parameter set point, and adjusting the operating speed of the condenser fans associated with the air-cooled condenser of the refrigeration unit in response to that comparison. |
| US08484982B2 |
Bleed structure for a bleed passage in a gas turbine engine
A bleed structure for a bleed passage in a gas turbine engine includes a first wall portion defining a first side of an opening for the passage, and a second wall portion defining a second side, opposite the first side of the opening. The first and second wall portions end at different positions in an extension direction of the opening. |
| US08484974B1 |
Dual-phase thermal electricity generator
This disclosure relates to a device and system capable of producing electricity by using a temperature gradient and a dual-phase fluid to convert thermal energy into electrical energy. The system relies on a sealed enclosed volume that utilizes a thermal gradient to vaporize and condense a dual-phase fluid. The cycle of the fluid transforming between the two phases is used to turn a turbine to create electricity. The thermal gradient can be enhanced using energy input from the sun. |
| US08484968B2 |
System and method for operating a compression-ignition engine
A method of operating a compression-ignition engine includes adjusting timing of fuel injection if a sensed parameter indicative of a maximum pressure within a combustion chamber varies relative to a selected pressure and if fuel injection timing is greater than a preselected timing. |
| US08484961B2 |
Vacuum accumulator system and method for regenerative braking system
A vacuum accumulator system includes a booster, a vacuum accumulator disposed in fluid communication with the booster and an engine disposed in fluid communication with the vacuum accumulator. |
| US08484957B2 |
Method for selectively heating a reducing agent line and device for exhaust gas purification in a vehicle
A method for selectively heating a reducing agent line of an SCR device during operation of an exhaust gas purification system of an internal combustion engine and a device for exhaust gas purification, include a supply tank for a reducing agent for SCR applications, a device for introducing the reducing agent into an exhaust line of an internal combustion engine and at least one reducing agent line for fluidically connecting the supply tank to the device. |
| US08484955B2 |
System and method for estimating an amount of particulate matter accumulated in a particulate filter
An amount of particulate matter accumulated in a particulate filter of an exhaust system is estimated by preloading a memory location with a plurality of hybrid models. Each hybrid model estimates an amount of particulate matter accumulated in the particulate filter between a pair of operating points. An estimated amount of particulate matter accumulated in the particulate filter is stored in the memory location for each hybrid model. Each hybrid model is ranked based on estimation accuracy during operating conditions and the highest ranked hybrid model is selected. The estimated amount of particulate matter accumulated in the particulate filter corresponding to the highest ranked hybrid model is added to the soot estimation value stored in the memory location that corresponds to a ranked hybrid model to provide a soot estimation value of a cumulative estimated amount of particulate matter contained in the particulate filter for the ranked hybrid model. |
| US08484945B2 |
Method for managing temperatures in an exhaust system of a motor vehicle
A method and system for managing temperatures in an exhaust system of a motor vehicle is disclosed. The method includes a step of predicting an overheat condition of a catalyst and a seal mat included in a catalytic converter. The method also includes a step of selecting a fuel enrichment map to determine a fuel delivery amount based on a predicted overheat condition. The method and system further includes providing a fuel enrichment map for an overheat condition of a catalyst that includes fuel delivery amounts that are less than fuel delivery amounts included in a fuel enrichment map for an overheat condition of a seal mat. |
| US08484942B1 |
Planetary gear system arrangement with auxiliary oil system
A gas turbine engine has a fan, first and second compressor stages, first and second turbine stages. The first turbine stage drives the second compressor stage as a high spool. The second turbine stage drives the first compressor stage as part of a low spool. A gear train drives the fan with the low spool, such that the fan and first compressor stage rotate in the same direction. The high spool operates at higher pressures than the low spool. A lubrication system is also disclosed. |
| US08484941B2 |
Method of accomplishment of a hybrid cord
The present invention relates to a method of accomplishment of a hybrid cord comprising an inner layer (1) in steel cord, an intermediate layer (2) in a high module and high toughness fiber and an outer layer (3) in a Polyolefin fiber. The present invention also refers to its application in an 8 (4×2) cords braided hybrid cable or any other type of hybrid cable presenting another construction, in braided or twisted cables. |
| US08484935B2 |
Ice bagging system and method
This apparatus relates to ice-bagging apparatuses with an ice maker and a hopper for receiving ice from the ice maker. The apparatus utilizes rotating drums designed for delivering ice into a bag. The apparatus also possess bagging and drop mechanism which fills and mechanically seals each bag of ice and drops it into a freezer for storage. The apparatus has an electronic operating system that has been greatly simplified using infrared technology and/or laser technology. The operating system is connected with the internet and a central processing center to allow for complete managing and monitoring of the system. |
| US08484933B2 |
Method and apparatus for packing a material in a packing container
The present invention relates to a method for packing a material in a packing container. The method includes the steps of providing a gaseous atmosphere with superheated steam in a housing; supplying a material to the gaseous atmosphere and delivering a packing container to the gaseous atmosphere. Thereafter, the material is filled into the packing container, the packing container is sealed inside the gaseous atmosphere, and filled packing container is moved out of the gaseous atmosphere. |
| US08484931B2 |
External and internal wall cladding system
A wall cladding and wall cladding system each comprising a plurality of panels, wherein opposing ends of each panel are substantially aligned with corresponding opposing ends of adjacent panels to form respective edges of an array of panels. Each panel includes at least one first recess in its first major face adjacent a first major edge configured in use to resemble a recessed mortar joint. |
| US08484929B1 |
Construction of modular underground storage facilities
A method of constructing a subterranean storage facility formed by an array of abutting shipping containers. The inner side panels and structural bars of adjoining containers are removed to form an interstitial space defined by the remaining outer side panels of the array. The removed panels and bars are repurposed in the construction to provide an external shell and enhanced structural support. |
| US08484925B2 |
Lattice support structure
The present invention relates to a lattice support structure having longitudinally extending supports which are connected to one another by obliquely extending struts and are also connected to one another in the state of the lattice support structure ready for operation by transversely extending struts provided with a joint, with the struts being pivotably connected to two respective preferably adjacent supports, with at least one connection strut being provided which connects two supports to one another which are not adjacent to one another and which are preferably disposed opposite one another, and with the at least one connection strut and/or at least one component of the lattice support structure connected thereto having fastening means or being connected or connectable thereto, with the fastening means being made such that they prevent a folding together of the lattice support structure in at least one position. |
| US08484924B2 |
Panel, in particular floor panel
A panel, in particular a floor panel, with a core consists of a wood material or a wood material-plastic mixture. A top side and a bottom side are provided. The panel has on a first lateral edge a lower locking element, which includes a first arm that is arranged on the bottom side of the panel and that projects over the first lateral edge. A first hook element with an undercut is arranged on an outer end of the first arm. The panel has on a second lateral edge that is opposite to the first lateral edge an upper locking element with a second arm that is arranged on the top side of the panel and that projects over the second lateral edge. A second hook element, which has at least one locking nose, is arranged on an outer end of the second arm, such that two identically designed panels can be connected and locked to one another in the horizontal direction and in the vertical direction after the locking nose of one panel is snapped into the undercut of a second panel. In the first arm of the lower locking element, at least one integral slot is provided with a width that is smaller than that of the second hook element. |
| US08484921B2 |
Rain-screen apparatus and method
A rain-screen apparatus including a substantially rigid air barrier (10) adapted for attachment to a building structure, a rain-screen panel (20) adapted for attachment over the air barrier, a spacing member adapted to provide a clearance space (14) between the air barrier and the rain-screen panel and sealing means adapted to provide substantial pressure equalization between within the clearance space. |
| US08484919B2 |
Transitions having disparate surfaces
A structure to form flooring transitions having outer surfaces comprising two disparate materials. In a preferred embodiment the flooring transitions includes a T-shaped molding and at least one attachment thereto. The outer surfaces of the T-molding and attachment may be comprised of different materials, even though they may sometimes have the same pattern or décor. For example, the T-molding may have a surface of real wood or veneer and the attachment may have an outer surface of abrasion resistant foil, metal, or even a visual perception element, such as lights or reflective tape. A kit is also disclosed. |
| US08484917B2 |
Mud-sill anchor
A sheetmetal mud-sill anchor for anchoring a sill plate to a concrete foundation having an embedded leg and a pair of laterally spaced arms connected to the upper end of the leg extending away from the embedded leg. The arms are adapted for bending around a sill member and have fastener openings for connecting the anchor to the sill member. |
| US08484915B1 |
System for improving fire endurance of concrete-filled steel tubular columns
A concrete filled tubular steel column includes a longitudinally extending vertical tubular steel shell and an inner tubular steel member disposed at the center of the steel shell. A plurality of spaced vertical steel plates extend from the inner members toward but not abutting the steel shell. In addition a plurality of horizontally disposed perforated pipes extend outwardly from the inner member and have a plurality of meltable polymer plugs or caps to prevent plastic cement from flowing into or closing the openings. In the event of fire the plastic or polymer plugs or caps melt and allow gases and smoke to flow into the pipes and up through the inner member and out therefrom at the top of the column. |
| US08484913B2 |
Jamb and frame combination for doors and windows
A jamb and frame combination for doors and windows having an elongated L-shaped cross section member adapted to fit snugly against two abutting side portions of a window or door casing, and including a tongue portion along one distal side portion and extending the length thereof, and at least one removable fastener adapted to pass through the L-shaped cross section member in an area adjacent to the tongue portion and into the window or door casing to thereby hold the L-shaped cross section member snugly thereto. An elongated trim member including a groove portion extending the length thereof and adapted to interlock with the tongue portion of the L-shaped cross section member, such that when the L-shaped cross section member is installed upon a window or door casing, the trim member groove portion can be pushed upon the L-shaped cross section member tongue portion and frictionally held in place and covering the at least one removable fastener. |
| US08484912B2 |
Spacer tube
A tubular hollow profile, particularly a spacer tube for the production of spacer frames for insulated glazing, has a profile wall. The profile wall is configured to be double-walled and has an outer wall made of metal, particularly stainless steel or aluminum, and an inner wall made of plastic, which are connected with one another, preferably in firm, i.e. non-displaceable manner. A device and a method for production of the hollow profile are also provided. |
| US08484905B2 |
Tower and method for the assembly of a tower
A number of pre-casted elements are stacked vertically to build the tower, while parts of the elements are forming the tower wall. Each element of the tower is fixed on its position and is connected with a tower foundation by a number of assigned post-tensioned cables. These cables are running inside the tower and they are pulled through the tower without embedding in dedicated channels. The post-tensioned-cables are fixed at certain points with the tower wall via damper-means to prevent their oscillation. |
| US08484891B2 |
Decorative flower pot cover formed of polymeric materials having a matte or textured finish simulating the texture and/or appearance of paper
A decorative cover positionable about a flower pot is formed of a polymeric material or a laminated polymeric material. The decorative cover has a texture and/or appearance simulating the texture and/or appearance of paper on at least a portion of one surface thereof while exhibiting improved durability and decreased sensitivity to water, humidity and pressure when compared to a decorative cover formed of paper. |
| US08484886B2 |
Animal trap
An animal trap for restraining animals, such as raccoons. The trap includes a hollow body having an entrance opening, an external and an internal grip member spaced apart along a longitudinal axis of the body, both having a V-shape, and a biased restraint member having a V-shape and adapted to move towards the grip members when released to engage an extremity of an animal inserted through the entrance opening. Two interchangeable trigger assemblies are each adapted to restrain the restraint member until proper engagement with a respective trigger member. The first trigger assembly releases the restraint member via a first directional force or an opposite second directional force applied to a first trigger member. The second trigger assembly releases the restraint member via only the first directional force applied to a second trigger member. A ground stake having jagged teeth and a swivel chain may be used for anchoring. |
| US08484885B2 |
Fishing lure
A fishing lure is provided which is adapted to simulate the behavior of a minnow at rest. Specifically, the new and improved fishing lure described herein is equipped with a pedestal on its bottom, whereby the pedestal is adapted to make contact with a bottom surface at a single contact point. The single contact point is aligned with the lure's center of balance, such that when the lure rests on the bottom surface it has a tendency to remain balanced on the single contact point. This allows the lure to be wobbled by the water turbulence, thereby imitating the behavior of a minnow at rest. |
| US08484881B2 |
Method and system for mitigating parallax in gun sights
A device for mitigating parallax in a reflex sight. The reflex sight having a front portion for receiving light and a rear portion for providing a visual of a target to a user. The parallax mitigation device defines a reticle positioned in an optical path of the reflex sight. The reticle is configured to indicate a center of the visual provided to the user. |
| US08484880B1 |
Universal bore sight
A bore sight (10) is provided that can be used with many calibers of firearms (12) to align optical devices such as rifle scopes. The bore sight (10) has a housing (22) with a spring loaded arbor (26) extending from one end thereof. The arbor (26) has a tapered face (32) varying in diameter in a range including popular calibers, such as .17 to .50 caliber. The arbor (26) is inserted in the end (20) of the barrel (18) as far as the caliber of the barrel (18) permits. The arbor (26) then starts retracting into the housing (22) against the spring force to allow the magnetic alignment face (24) of the housing to move into contact with the end (20) of the barrel to align the bore sight (10) and laser (30) with the bore (16). |
| US08484872B2 |
Messaging sign having plates and reversible locking system
The invention relates to a messaging sign apparatus with informative indicia plates that externally display information regarding patient care. The messaging sign apparatus having a framed housing, a plate, a locking member, and a covering. The framed housing includes a passageway on an inner body thereof and a slot on an outer surface leading into the passageway. The plate is positioned in the passageway and moveable through the slot to a displayed position opposite the passageway. The locking member is arranged on the framed housing and engageable with the plate to lock the plate into the displayed position. The cover is disposed over the framed housing and covering the passageway. |
| US08484871B2 |
Channel sign assembly and retaining trim cap
A channel sign assembly is provided having a rear surface for mounting against a raceway, wall, or a structure for supporting the signage, and sheet metal sides which define the figuration of the sign assembly or shape to be depicted. A lighting element is positioned against the rear surface of the enclosure, and a lens is retained to the open front of the enclosure. The lens is retained by a screw-less retainer cap secured to the sign assembly. |
| US08484869B2 |
Ironing appliance comprising a piezoelectric pump
Provided is an ironing appliance, including a pump that has a pumping chamber provided with an inlet and an outlet, the pumping chamber including a moveable wall having an outer surface contacting a piezoelectric actuator provided to move the movable wall while changing the volume of the pumping chamber by the piezoelectric actuator, wherein the pump is placed in the ironing appliance such that the outlet of the pumping chamber is located at a higher level than the inlet in a normal position for operating the appliance. |
| US08484864B2 |
Pressure-reducing device
The pressure-reducing device has a body, a heel portion and an elevation portion. The body has a thickness and a body-fore end. The heel portion is defined in the body. The elevation portion is defined in the body and has a rear boundary and a fore boundary. The rear boundary is adjacent to the heel portion and is positioned between the heel portion and the body-fore end of the body. The fore boundary is positioned in front of the rear boundary between the rear boundary of the elevation portion and the body-fore end of the body. The thickness of the body decreases from the rear boundary to the fore boundary. |
| US08484860B2 |
Clothes treating apparatus
Disclosed is a clothes treating apparatus, which treats clothes into a more wearable condition. A clothes treating apparatus includes a cabinet; an accommodating space defined in the cabinet to accommodate clothes, and maintained in a stationary state; an air supplying device generating dry air and supplying the dry air into the accommodating space such that the dry air is circulated in the accommodating space, wherein the air supplying device includes an inlet provided at a bottom of the accommodating space such that the air in the accommodating space flows into the air supplying device through the inlet; and a filter assembly installed in the inlet, and filtering the air passing through the inlet. |
| US08484857B2 |
Component for axially aligning two shafts through intermediary materials
A shaft alignment component for aligning a rotatable shaft positioned within a housing of a driven device with a motor shaft of a motor positioned outside of the housing of the driven device is disclosed. The component includes a body portion having an opening formed therethrough to receive the rotatable shaft and/or the motor shaft therein, a first alignment feature configured to interface with an alignment hub on the motor to position the motor shaft along a centerline axis of the shaft alignment component, and a second alignment feature comprising a chamfered surface configured to interface with a countersunk feature on the housing. The chamfered surface is configured to interface with the countersunk feature to self-align the shaft alignment component with the housing such that the rotatable shaft of the driven device is positioned along the centerline axis of the shaft alignment component and aligned with the motor shaft. |
| US08484852B2 |
Shaving system comprising a razor handle
A shaving system including a bifurcated razor handle (1,90) having a unitary, two-shot plastics molding having a pair of hinges (4) with elastomeric springs (11) joined by a cartridge mounting portion (30,91) which receives the bottom side of a generally flat, multi-blade cartridge (60) in fixed, snap-fit relation. The cartridge is retained in a dispenser (80) beneath a resilient leaf (84) and pressed onto the mounting portion along an engagement axis E normal to the shaving plane, the leaf being received in a recess (48) between the mounting portion and the cartridge. The cartridge is then retracted from the dispenser along a retraction axis R generally parallel with the shaving plane. The mounting portion includes digit-receiving regions 40 for pressing the mounting portion onto the cartridge, an ejection element (41,141) for disengaging the cartridge from the handle, and an elastomeric skin-engaging platform (51) arranged in advance of the shaving plane. |
| US08484851B2 |
Hair feathering razor
A hair feathering razor including first and second interconnected handles that move between open and closed positions, a biasing element tending to open the handles, a razor blade extending outwardly from the first handle, and a hair guiding bar extending outwardly from the second handle, wherein the hair guiding bar and the razor blade are in parallel alignment and move toward one another in the closed position. The hair feathering razor can further include a roller rotatably carried on the hair guiding bar. |
| US08484849B2 |
Hair remover
A hair remover including a cylindrical outer blade and an inner blade rotatably accommodated in the outer blade. The outer blade includes a side wall, a bend, and an upper wall that are continuous with each other. A first cutting edge is arranged on the upper wall and the side wall. The inner blade includes a second cutting edge arranged so as to clip hair in cooperation with the first cutting edge of the outer blade. The hair remover further includes a relief arranged on at least either one of the inner blade and the outer blade to prevent contact between the inner blade and the bend of the outer blade. |
| US08484848B2 |
Method for the orbital assembly of aircraft sections made of composite material
A method for assembling two structural elements, at least one of the two structural elements being tube-shaped and including a skin made of a fiber-reinforced composite material. The ability of the element to adapt to the shape and perimeter of a junction interface is improved by providing longitudinal grooves distributed on the circumference of the junction interface. The grooves are of a sufficient length to provide the junction interface with the flexibility to accommodate, through relative radial movement of each portion located between two grooves, differences in shape and perimeter among the junction interfaces of the two structural elements. |
| US08484839B2 |
Multi-layer chip carrier and process for making
Provided are processes for making multi-layer chip carriers comprising an asymmetric cross-linked polymeric dielectric film. |
| US08484838B2 |
Method for constructing a capacitance sensing device
Embodiments for constructing capacitance sensing devices include, but are not limited to, forming a plurality of electrodes on a central portion of a substrate, the substrate comprising a central portion and an outer portion, forming a first plurality of conductors on the substrate, each of the first plurality of conductors being connected to and extending from at least one of the plurality of electrodes, and forming an insulating material on the outer portion of the substrate and at least partially over some of the first plurality of conductors. The constructing also includes forming a second plurality of conductors on the insulating material, wherein the second plurality of conductors and the insulating material are configured such that each of the second plurality of conductors is electrically connected to at least some of the first plurality of conductors and is insulated from the others of the first plurality of conductors. |
| US08484837B2 |
Method for conductively connecting a component on a transparent substrate
The invention relates to a method to conductively connect an electrical component with at least one conductive layer, whereby the conductive layer is applied to a substrate which is essentially transparent in the visible wavelength zone of light, comprising the following steps: the electrical component or the conductive layer is provided with a soldering material in the area where the component is to be connected to the conductive layer; the soldering material is provided with energy supplied by an energy source, such that the soldering material melts and a non-detachable, material-bonded conductive connection between the electrical component and the conductive layer is established. |
| US08484836B2 |
Flexible network
An integrated circuit connector is extendable for a variety of applications. In connection with various embodiments, an electrical connector has first and second ends connected to respective circuit nodes in an integrated circuit device. The connector is bundled between the circuit nodes (e.g., substantially all of the connector is located between nodes), and is extended from such a bundled state in which the first and second connected ends are separated by a first proximate distance. The connector is applied in an extended state in which the first and second connected ends are separated by a second distance that is greater than the first proximate distance by at least two orders of magnitude. |
| US08484834B2 |
Plant for the electrochemical formation of lead-acid batteries
Improved plant for the electrochemical formation of lead-acid batteries, which comprises a circuit for circulating the electrolytic solution for the purpose of controlling its temperature and electrolytic concentration, provided with supply means for conveying into the cells via a first distribution header a first flow of electrolytic solution at a constant piezometric pressure and return means for removing under a vacuum by means of a suction header the first flow of electrolytic solution from the cells. A cap, which comprises an inlet pipe connected via a first connecting line to the first distribution header and an outlet pipe, is removably mounted in a sealed manner on each cell. Each cap also comprises at least one ventilation pipe which connects the internal environment of the cell, present underneath the lid, to the external environment which is at atmospheric pressure, so as to dilute the formation of inflammable gases inside said cell. |
| US08484831B2 |
Methods of forming insulated wires and hermetically-sealed packages for use in electromagnetic devices
A method includes coating a conductive wire with a paste comprising a first inorganic dielectric material, an organic binder, and a solvent to form a coated wire, drying the coated wire at a first drying temperature to remove at least a portion of the solvent and form a green wire, winding the green wire around a core to form a green assembly, heat treating the green assembly at a decomposing temperature above the first temperature and below a melting point of the first inorganic dielectric material to decompose the organic binder to form an intermediate assembly, and exposing the intermediate assembly to a densifying temperature that is above the decomposing temperature and substantially equal to or above the melting point of the first inorganic dielectric material to densify the dielectric material on the conductive wire. |
| US08484830B2 |
Method of manufacturing a CPP structure with enhanced GMR ratio
A CPP-GMR spin valve having a CoFe/NiFe composite free layer is disclosed in which Fe content of the CoFe layer ranges from 20 to 70 atomic % and Ni content in the NiFe layer varies, from 85 to 100 atomic % to maintain low Hc and λs values. A small positive magnetostriction value in a Co75Fe25 layer is used to offset a negative magnetostriction value in a Ni90Fe10layer. The CoFe layer is deposited on a sensor stack in which a seed layer, AFM layer, pinned layer, and non-magnetic spacer layer are sequentially formed on a substrate. After a NiFe layer and capping layer are sequentially deposited on the CoFe layer, the sensor stack is patterned to give a sensor element with top and bottom surfaces and a sidewall connecting the top and bottom surfaces. Thereafter, a dielectric layer is formed adjacent to the sidewalls. |
| US08484826B2 |
Apparatus and method for installing connecting rods
An apparatus and method for installing a piston and connecting rod assembly in a cylinder of an engine block includes a frame, an installation rod and a guide defining a channel complementary to the rod. The frame is disposed about an opening at the bottom of the engine block and the guide is positioned on the frame in alignment with a cylinder. The installation rod is coupled to the connecting rod and the rod and the piston and connecting rod assembly are slid into the cylinder. The installation rod is received within the guide channel and maintains the connecting rod perpendicular to the crankshaft and away from the cylinder wall. As the connecting rod moves toward the crankshaft, the guide and rod move the connecting rod into proper alignment and contact with the crankshaft. |
| US08484819B2 |
Spacing tool and method of use
The invention includes a hand tool that may be used for applying a design to a jewelry line. The tool may include at least one three-dimensional object having a slot spanning at least the distance of one side of the object. The slot may be receptive to a jewelry line, such as a wire or string. The tool may include at least a first object connected to another object so the objects may abut one another or be spaced an adjustable distance apart and at least two of the slots are in-line. Further, the hand tool may be used in a method of applying a design or designs to the jewelry line by placing the line in the slot(s) and applying a stop to the line. |
| US08484818B2 |
Using leverage to facilitate removal of a nut
System(s), method(s), and device(s) that facilitate efficient removal of a nut(s) from a wheel stud or bolt are presented. A nut removal facilitator device comprises a first arm with a holder component, wherein the first arm is attached to a lever component and a second arm, which includes a force applicator component. A socket of a wrench is placed on a desired nut, with the wrench handle portion near the socket held within the holder component and an end portion of the wrench handle in contact with the force applicator component. A force can be received at the top portion of the lever component is leveraged based on the length of the lever component. The leveraged force is transferred to the force applicator component which applies the transferred force to the wrench handle to move the handle and socket in the desired direction to loosen and remove the nut. |
| US08484817B2 |
Dismounting device for environment-friendly oil filter
A dismounting device is provided for efficiently and effectively dismounting an environment-friendly oil filter from an engine. The device includes an oil storage container that forms an oil discharge mouth and includes an oil guide tube extending into an internal oil storage space thereof. The oil guide tube has an exposed upper end carrying a pusher in which a central bore is defined and communicating the internal oil storage space of the container. The pusher has an upper portion forming a threaded section that is engageable with an internal thread of an oil discharge opening of the oil filter and a push tube extendable into the oil filter to open an internal valve of the oil filter so that oil remaining in the filter is allowed to flow into the central bore of the pusher and is conducted by the oil guide tube into the oil storage space of the container. |
| US08484814B2 |
Three point release buckle
A three point buckle release buckle includes male and female components establishing releasable latch connections at opposite sides of the buckle and a center latch. The center latch is formed by a fixed catch point in the female component and a deflectable bar of the male component. A release button is depressed against the deflectable bar to release the center latch. |
| US08484812B2 |
Dental cast stabilizer
A dental cast stabilizer secures a dental cast to a dental cast articulator, and includes a fastening hole strap and a fastening post strap with a band body disposed therebetween. The fastening post strap includes a fastening post disposed thereon, and the fastening hole strap includes a fastening hole disposed thereon that is capable of receiving the fastening post or mounting plate thumb screw on an articulator. |
| US08484811B2 |
Zipper arrangement with wheeled slider
A zipper arrangement comprises a plurality of zipper elements with a slider moveably positioned on the plurality of zipper elements. At least one wheel is rotatably positioned on the slider and configured to engage the plurality of zipper elements. The at least one wheel may include a first wheel configured to engage a first plurality of zipper elements and a second wheel configured to engage a second plurality of zipper elements within a slider. The slider may be generally triangular or trapezoidal in shape. Accordingly, the slider and includes a first end configured to pass disengaged zipper elements and a second end configured pass engaged zipper elements, wherein the second end is wider than the first end. The slider also includes a window configured to display at least a portion of the first wheel and the second wheel. |
| US08484800B2 |
Cleaner head
A cleaner head for a vacuum cleaning appliance includes a first rotatable agitator and a second rotatable agitator for sweeping debris from a surface, each agitator comprising a disc-shaped body and a plurality of resilient members, preferably in the form of bristles, mounted on the body for engaging the surface. The agitators are housed within an agitator chamber which includes a downwardly-directed opening through which debris energized by the bristles enters the cleaner head. The opening is located in a plane, and each body is inclined relative to the plane of the opening so that, with rotation of the agitator, the bristles protrude through the opening. The bristles of the first agitator are angularly offset from the bristles of the second agitator. |
| US08484799B2 |
Cyclone chamber and dirt collection assembly for a surface cleaning apparatus
A cyclone bin assembly comprises a dirt collection chamber in communication with a dirt outlet of a cyclone chamber. The dirt collection chamber comprises a first and second opposed ends and comprises a first and portions. The dirt outlet is positioned adjacent the second opposed end of the dirt collection chamber. The first and second portions may comprise discrete chambers that are separated from each other by a passage extending between the dirt outlet and a wall of the dirt collection chamber. The first and second portions may have first and second sides. The first side is positioned adjacent the passage and the second side is angularly spaced from the passage. The second portion has a divider wall that extends towards the second opposed end of the dirt collection chamber from the first opposed end of the dirt collection chamber. The divider wall may be spaced from the second side. |
| US08484796B2 |
Air rinse and transport apparatus
Air rinse and transport apparatus (10) comprises a bottle air-rinsing device (12) for air rinsing a turned bottle (16) with ionized air, and an air conveyor (14) for moving a bottle (16) to and/or from the air-rinsing device (12). The air conveyor (14) includes a bottle guide (24) along which a bottle (16) is moved by air pressure. The guide (24) is at least in part helical so as to turn a longitudinal extent of the said bottle (16). Preferably, the turning causes the said bottle to be inverted. |
| US08484795B2 |
Collecting debris from a tool
An apparatus and associated method are provided for collecting debris from a tool. A housing defines a channel, at least one of the tool and the housing being selectively movable to operably orient the tool at a predefined reference relationship to the channel. A magnetic member is operable to demagnetize at least one of the tool and the debris. A windage source in fluid communication with the channel is operable to establish a windage contacting the tool to cooperate with the magnetic member in removing the debris from the tool. A conduit connected to the channel collects the removed debris. |
| US08484792B2 |
Cleaning tool
A cleaning tool includes a cleaning unit including a water-disintegrable cleaning substrate which is dispersible in water, and which holds a microcapsule encapsulating a cleaning component. |
| US08484789B2 |
Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes are provided which have various features that may include one or more tooth cleaning elements having a variety of shapes and sizes, one or more gum treating elements having a variety of shapes and sizes, and/or one or more soft tissue/tongue treating elements having a variety of shapes and sizes. |
| US08484784B2 |
Slow acting pocketed spring core having fibrous material glued to pockets
Spring cushions (10) having slow-acting pocketed spring cores (12) characterized by the individual springs of the cores (12) being pocketed within semi-impermeable fabric material and a method of making such pocketed spring cores (12). Fibrous material is located between adjacent rows of pocketed springs to reduce noise. |
| US08484780B1 |
Height adjustable apparatus with radius arm and idlers
The invention has a deck that is supported by a first lever and a second lever. The first and second levers can be connected with a drag link. An actuator can be pivotally connected relative to but not directly to the deck. The location of the actuator relative an arm of the first lever is controlled with a control arm. A caster carriage and four idlers can also be provided. The idlers pivotally interconnect the first and second levers with the caster carriage. A radius arm can be connected to the caster carriage and to an arm of one of the levers. In this regard, the radius arm can be relatively long and can act in tandem with the respective lever and the idlers to minimize the horizontal shifting of the deck as the apparatus is raised and lowered. |
| US08484776B1 |
Cradle
The present invention disclose a new cradle, including: a cradle frame, with a limiting rod extending along the height set on it; a cradle body, which move up and down along the height of the cradle frame; elastic connecting pieces, which are connected between the cradle frame and the cradle body; a noise reducing component, which includes two parallel mounting plates, two opposite 1st pulleys installed on two mounting plates respectively as well as two opposite 2nd pulleys installed between two mounting plates, wherein the rotating axis of the 2nd pulley is perpendicular to that of the 1st pulley and the limiting rod passes through the clearance enclosed by the two 1st and the two 2nd pulleys, with a mounting plate fixed to the body of the cradle. The up and down reciprocating movement can effectively facilitate the baby's sleep (especially having better effects for babies more than one full year old); at the same time, by adopting the noise reducing device and changing sliding friction to rolling friction, the present invention can effectively reduce the noise and resistance generated during the up-down movement of the body of the cradle, so that the baby's sleep will not be influenced due to noise. |
| US08484774B2 |
Continuously height adjustable baby mattress support and apparatus therefor
A continuously height adjustable mattress support and apparatus therefor is disclosed. The mattress support is vertically displaceable by means of at least one drive unit for applying a vertical force to a corresponding solely vertically displaceable driven component and is stabilized during vertical displacement by at least one stabilizing means connected thereto. The driven component is connected to, or is in supporting relation with, the mattress support, so that a height of the mattress support above a floor surface is settable and continuously adjustable by means of at least one actuator associated with the at least one drive unit. In one embodiment, a locking device for preventing displacement of the mattress support following inadvertent actuation of the at least one drive unit is employed. |
| US08484773B2 |
Combined bed/chair transporter with leg lift
A cantilevered mobile bed/chair apparatus for safely transporting a patient is described. The mobile bed/chair apparatus includes means for reclining the patient while lifting the patient's legs to allow access to a bedpan or to facilitate an change in clothing. Also described is means for mounting the bed/chair to a patient mobility device. |
| US08484770B2 |
Toilet for the disabled
The toilet for the disabled has a toilet bowl and toilet seat configured to face the toilet tank, thereby enabling disabled and physically debilitated persons to move forward to sit on the toilet seat. The toilet has a pedestal on which the tank is mounted, and an inverted U-shaped support member having legs attached to opposite sides of the pedestal. The support member includes a crossbar handle above the level of the tank that a disabled person may grasp for assistance in moving forward onto the toilet seat and rearward off the toilet seat. The handle may have a resilient grip. The toilet may have two independently flush handle mounted on opposite sides of the tank for operation by right-handed or left-handed users. |
| US08484768B2 |
Neck brace
A neck brace (10) comprises an impact surface (39,55) adjacent the neck of a wearer of the brace (10) that it is spaced from a helmet (42) and that is configured to limit movement of the helmet by contacting an underside (46) of the helmet, a bearing surface (15,35) bearing on the wearer's body; and a resilient structure (12) between the impact surface (39,55) and the bearing surface (15,35) for transferring impact loads from the helmet (42) on the impact surface, to the wearer's body via the bearing surface. The brace (10) further includes restraining means (58) that is attachable to the rear of the structure (12) with a releasable clip mechanism (66) and to the helmet (42) to inhibit movement of the helmet. The restraining means is in the form of a tether (58) that is attached to the helmet (42) at two spaced locations and that passes with clearance through an aperture in an anchor element (62,64), to allow the helmet (42) to be moved freely while the tether (58) slides through the aperture. |
| US08484767B2 |
Protective cap
In a protective cap housing a shield member for covering almost all of a face of a wearer in the interior of a cap body, the protective cap capable of retracting the shield member in the interior of the cap body is provided. It is a protective cap 1 having a cap body 3 formed in a semi-spherical-shell-like form for protecting a head of a wearer, a shield member 5 for protecting almost all of a face of the wearer, and guide means 7 for guiding the shield member 5 to move along a curved surface of the cap body 3 between a housing position P1 to be housed in the cap body 3 and a shielding position P3 for covering almost all of the face of the wearer. |
| US08484764B2 |
Zipper arrangement
A zipper arrangement is configured to fasten a first fabric portion to a second fabric portion. The zipper arrangement includes a plurality of first zipper elements positioned along the first fabric portion and a plurality of second zipper elements positioned along the second fabric portion. A zipper closure includes a first closure member releasably coupled to a second closure member. The first closure member is positioned on a mid-portion of the first fabric portion and the second closure member is positioned on a mid-portion of the second fabric portion. A first slider is positioned on one side of the zipper closure and a second slider positioned on an opposite side of the zipper closure. When provided on a garment, the zipper arrangement may be used in association with a method for fastening a first garment portion to a second garment portion by moving the sliders in opposing directions. |
| US08490210B2 |
Contact type plasmonic nano optical probe, parallel probe constituted of the same, plasmonic optical apparatus including the parallel probe, and a method of fabricating the parallel probe
A contact type plasmonic nano optical probe, a parallel probe constituted of the same, a plasmonic optical apparatus including the parallel probe, and a method of fabricating the parallel probe are disclosed. A contact type plasmonic nano optical probe includes a probe tip which protrudes in a truncated shape having a narrower plan surface and a wider plan surface relatively wider than the narrower plan surface, of which a metal thin film is coated on a surface, of and which an aperture of nm diameter included in a portion of the metal thin film on a central portion of the narrower plan surface, a spring structure disposed at a perimeter of the probe tip and configured to maintain a distance between the probe tip and a film to be exposed, a dielectric filled within the aperture, and a protection layer disposed on the narrower plan surface of the probe tip. Here, an optical transport path is included within the probe tip to be connected to the aperture. A plasmonic optical apparatus including a parallel plasmonic probe is constituted of a probe array including a plurality of probe modules in which the contact type plasmonic nano optical probes are disposed at a uniform distance on a substrate. |
| US08490208B2 |
Method and device for detecting if a computer file has been copied and method and device for enabling such detection
A method of detecting whether a computer file has been copied, the computer file comprising a software program and having an inode number. The inode number of the computer file is retrieved by the software program. From the computer file, a stored inode number is read, the stored inode number being the inode number of a file system from which the computer file should not be copied. The retrieved inode number and the read inode number are compared and it is determined that the computer file has been copied if the retrieved inode number does not match the read inode number. Also provided are a method of enabling detection of the copying of a computer file, and devices and software program products corresponding to the methods. |
| US08490207B2 |
Performing zero-copy sends in a networked file system with cryptographic signing
A method and system for sending data in a file system that uses cryptographic signatures to protect data integrity. A computer system calculates a signature based on the content of a page of a memory. The memory is shared by processes that run on the computer system. The computer system write-protects the page while the page is used for calculation of the signature. When a first process attempts to modify the page, a page fault is triggered. In response to the page fault, the content of the page in memory is copied to a new page in the memory. The new page is accessible by the processes. Access to the page by the first process is redirected to the new page. Subsequent to the page fault, access to the page by the second process is also redirected to the new page. |
| US08490203B1 |
Fingerprinting based entity extraction
A system (and a method) is disclosed for fingerprinting based entity extraction using a rolling hash technique. The system is configured to receive an input stream comprising characters, the input stream of a predetermined length, and a hash table having plurality of indexed entries. The system defines a fixed window length. The system isolates, through the fixed window length, a set of a plurality of characters of the input stream. The system generates a hash key. The hash key is used to index into the hash table. The system compares the isolated set of plurality of characters of the input stream with the entry corresponding to the index into the hash table to determine whether there is an exact match with the entry. The system slides the fixed window length one character to isolate another set of a plurality of characters of the input stream in response to no exact match from the comparison. Alternatively, the system stores the input stream in response to an exact match from the comparison. |
| US08490194B2 |
Method and system for detecting malicious behavioral patterns in a computer, using machine learning
Method for detecting malicious behavioral patterns which are related to malicious software such as a computer worm in computerized systems that include data exchange channels with other systems over a data network. Accordingly, hardware and/or software parameters are determined in the computerized system that is can characterize known behavioral patterns thereof. Known malicious code samples are learned by a machine learning process, such as decision trees and artificial neural networks, and the results of the machine learning process are analyzed in respect to the behavioral patterns of the computerized system. Then known and unknown malicious code samples are identified according to the results of the machine learning process. |
| US08490185B2 |
Dynamic spam view settings
A method of displaying email messages to a user is provided. Spam classification information and meta data is associated with email messages received for a user. Email message summary information is displayed in a user interface based on whether the meta data associated with the message meets or exceeds a threshold display level for the summary information. The user provides input via the user interface which is an indication to change the threshold display level and the change is dynamically displayed. |
| US08490184B2 |
Verification for computer programs that include external call references
A program verification mechanism includes an external call reference verification mechanism that verifies external call references in a computer program. The external call reference verification mechanism checks the computer program after the computer program has been loaded by a loader/linker. The loader/linker stores a list of trusted entry points that specifies a trusted entry point for each external call reference, along with a list of allowable caller code for each trusted entry point. The external call reference verification mechanism determines the entry point for each instruction that is an external call reference, determines whether the entry point is listed as the trusted entry point for the external call reference, and whether the external call reference instruction is in the list of allowable caller code for the trusted entry point. If so, the computer program is verified. If not, verification of the computer program fails. |
| US08490183B2 |
Security ensuring by program analysis on information device and transmission path
A receiving device includes a storing unit that stores information on whether a function of a program provided via a network is permitted to be used; a receiving unit; a first a receipt control unit that receives, using the receiving unit, before receiving a program via the network, function information indicating a function used in the program; a determining unit that determines whether to receive the program, by comparing function information received by the first receipt control unit and information stored by the storing unit; a second receipt control unit that receives, using the receiving unit, the program via the network if the determining unit determines to receive the program, and that cancels receipt of the program via the network if the determining unit determines not to receive the program; and an executing unit that executes the program received by the second receipt control unit. |
| US08490181B2 |
Deterministic serialization of access to shared resource in a multi-processor system for code instructions accessing resources in a non-deterministic order
Managing access to resources shared among multiple processes within a computer system. Multiple program instances of an application are almost simultaneously executed on multiple processors for fault tolerance. The replication solution supports the recording and subsequent replay of reservation events granting the shared resources exclusive access rights to the processes, when one program code instruction may request access to a set of shared resources in a non-deterministic order. |
| US08490171B2 |
Method of configuring a security gateway and system thereof
There is provided a rule-set generator and a method of automated configuration of a security gateway. The method comprises setting-up an initial rule-set; obtaining log records of communication events corresponding to the initial rule-set so as to obtain a sufficient amount of log records; transforming the obtained log records into respective rules, wherein source, destination and service fields in each rule correspond to source, destination and service values in respective obtained log record, and the action in all rules is defined as “Accept”, thus giving rise to a transformation-based rule-set; and processing the transformation-based rule-set so as to generate an operable rule-set by processing the transformation-based rule-set. |
| US08490170B2 |
Internet-based fill-level measurement value and diagnostic information polling system
An Internet-based fill-level measurement value and diagnostic information polling system includes several field devices, a central server and a processing unit that is connected to the server by way of the internet. In response to a user inquiry the server generates a certificate and an associated data object that characterizes the data that may be polled by the user. In response to an inquiry by the user, with which inquiry the certificate is sent along to the server, the server automatically transmits the requested data to the user if a check of the certificate shows that the user is authorized to receive this. |
| US08490163B1 |
Enforcing security policies across heterogeneous systems
A system, method, and computer program product enforce a universal security policy across several systems. In one embodiment, the system comprises a translation module that translates the universal security policy into local security rules enforceable by the security components of the several systems. The system also comprises a policy pushing module that transmits the translated local security rules to each of the several systems. Further, the system can include an analysis module for detecting local security rules in the several systems that are inconsistent with the universal security policy. |
| US08490162B1 |
System and method for recognizing malicious credential guessing attacks
A system includes a memory and a processor. The memory is operable to store a credential verifier associated with a user account and a counter. The processor is coupled to the memory and the memory includes executable instructions that cause the system to receive a first authentication attempt and increment the counter if validation of the first authentication attempt against the credential verifier fails. The instructions also cause the system to receive a second authentication attempt and increment the counter only if validation of the second authentication attempt against the credential verifier fails and the second authentication attempt is distinct from the first authentication attempt. |
| US08490161B2 |
Methods, systems and computer program products for provisioning VLAN services in a network
Provisioning VLAN services in a network patching system includes receiving a request to provide a VLAN service to an individual communication channel, determining whether a switch connector port connected to the individual communication channel via a patch cord is configured to provide the requested VLAN service, and initiating the requested VLAN service to the individual communication channel in response to determining that the switch connector port is configured to provide the requested VLAN service. Verification that a user associated with the individual communication channel is authorized to access the requested VLAN service may be performed prior to initiating the requested VLAN service. An administrator may be notified that a VLAN service has been requested and/or initiated. The user associated with the communication channel may be notified when the requested VLAN service has been initiated. |
| US08490156B2 |
Interface for access management of FEMTO cell coverage
Access management of femto cell service through access control list(s), or “white list(s)” is disclosed. Such white list(s) can be configured via a networked interface which facilitates access management to a femto cell. White list(s) includes a set of subscriber station(s) identifier numbers, codes or tokens, and can also include additional fields for femto cell access management based on desired complexity. Various interfaces and user profiles are associated with granting different levels of access to requesting UEs. |
| US08490152B2 |
Entitlement lifecycle management in a resource management system
An entitlement management system is described herein that models each entitlement as a resource within a resource management system. In a resource management system that applies policy to all requests to create, update, and delete a resource, this approach allows rich application of policy to the creation, delegation, renewal, expiration, and deletion of entitlements. A resource management system that can synchronize data to connected systems can thereby grant or revoke these permissions in those systems. This approach also facilitates role mining, attestation, and compliance reporting. Entitlements stored as resources may also include properties, such as workflows and policies related to the entitlements. Thus, the entitlement management system provides a more formal and automated facility for managing entitlements in organizations. |
| US08490150B2 |
System, method, and software for enforcing access control policy rules on utility computing virtualization in cloud computing systems
According to one embodiment, a system comprises one or more processors coupled to a memory and executing logic. A policy life cycle component is configured to maintain a repository of security policies. The repository of security policies comprises policies governing access to a virtual host and to a plurality of virtual machines running on the virtual host. The policy life cycle component is also configured to issue a compound policy for an identified virtual operating system running on the virtual host. The compound policy provides a virtual host policy and access rules for each of the plurality of virtual machines running on the virtual host. A topology manager is configured to receive the compound policy from the policy life cycle component, assign the compound to an access control agent, and maintain a security policy topology. The security policy topology stores associations between access control agents and compound policies. |
| US08490146B2 |
Dual mode proximity sensor
A computer-implemented method for controlling an electronic device including receiving a signal through a light sensor of the device, identifying with a processor of the device whether the received signal originated from a light emitter of the device, and controlling a function of the device, the function selected based on whether the signal is identified as originating from the light emitter of the device or the light emitter separate from the device. |
| US08490144B2 |
Media exchange network having media processing systems and personal computers with common user interfaces
A system supporting a common user interface for the consumption of media is disclosed. In an embodiment of the present invention, a set top box and a personal computer may have user interfaces that are substantially the same, providing users of such systems substantially the same look and feel in exchanging and consuming media. The media in such an embodiment may comprise audio, still images, video, real time video, and data. In addition, a media peripheral may also have a user interface supporting the exchange and consumption of media, and the user interface may be substantially the same interface as that of a set top box or a personal computer, having substantially the same look and feel. |
| US08490142B2 |
System and method for tagging video content
A method of tagging video content includes receiving video content at a set-top box device via a private video distribution access network. The method also includes receiving a tag associated with the video content at the set-top box device and sending the tag to a tag management system via the private video distribution access network. Further, the method includes sending a request for content associated with the tag to the tag management system and receiving the video content at the set-top box device. |
| US08490141B2 |
Content distribution service and inter-user communication
Methods and related systems related to content distribution include but are not limited to receiving at a user device a notification that at least one remote user has selected a specific instance of content; displaying on said user device a request to select said specific instance of content indicated by said notification; receiving a request to select said specific instance of said content; transmitting an indication to said at least one remote user that said specific instance of said content has been selected; receiving said specific instance of said content; displaying on said user device said specific instance of said content; enabling said user device to handle at least one manipulation of at least said specific instance of said content; and enabling said user device to communicate with at least one remote user. |
| US08490140B2 |
Electronic device and method, recording medium, and program
An electronic device includes a setting unit configured to set an order of priority for attributes of a reproducing device, for each content attribute, based on user instructions, a first obtaining unit configured to obtain attributes of the reproducing device, a second obtaining unit configured to obtain attributes of the content selected by the user, and a determining unit configured to determine an order of priority for the reproducing device regarding which attributes have been obtained by the first obtaining unit, based on the set order of priority, obtained attributes of the reproducing device, and obtained attributes of the content. |
| US08490139B2 |
Method and system for pushing content in a broadcast communication system
A push scheduler for communicating push and carousel content and method for operating the same includes a block manager that receives content channel data from the channel listing system and forming a channel block having a channel and a time period associated therewith based on the channel data. The scheduler further includes a schedule manager that forms an assignment by assigning push and carousel content data to the channel block with a predetermined recurrence rate within the block and a material manager that controls the communication of push and carousel content based on the channel block. |
| US08490137B2 |
Image display apparatus and method of operating the same
An image display apparatus and a method for operating the same are disclosed. An image display apparatus as embodied and broadly disclosed herein may include a video image displayed in a first area of the display module. A first and second card objects may be displayed in a second and third areas of the display module. The first and second card objects may include at least one link for connecting to a content provider or to a storage device or at least one link for retrieving the video image. The first or second card objects may be scrolled across the display module to cause a third card object to be scrolled onto the display. The third card object may be displayed in the second or third areas of the display if the third card object is scrolled onto the display module a prescribed amount. |
| US08490136B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing enhanced electronic program guide with personalized selection of broadcast content using affinities data and user preferences
An apparatus and method are provided to inform a user of a broadcast stream, which has multiple, concurrently received channels of program content, about recommendations of a subset of the content currently playing across the available channels or to be played within a selected future time period. The subset of content is selected based on user preferences and system data (e.g., program topic and channel affinities among the broadcast content and channels) to recommend a more diverse subset of content than would be discovered if only user preferences were employed to make the selection of recommended content. |
| US08490135B2 |
Virtual media channels
Methods for displaying a user's personal media content via an EPG that also displays third-party broadcast television channels. Personal media content associated with a user is retrieved from one or more networks, and aggregated by type of media. The personal content media is further sorted into groups of media content sharing a common attribute. A virtual media channel is created for each group of media, and is added to the EPG. Each virtual media channel is populated with the user's personal media content affiliated with the group. |
| US08490128B2 |
Media processing methods and arrangements
The present technology concerns cell phones and other portable devices, and more particularly concerns use of such devices in connection with media content (electronic and physical) and with other systems (e.g., televisions, digital video recorders, and electronic program directories). Some aspects of the technology allow users to easily transfer displayed content from cell phone screens onto a television screens for easier viewing, or vice versa for content portability. Others enable users to participate interactively in entertainment content, such as by submitting plot directions, audio input, character names, etc., yielding more engaging, immersive, user experiences. Still other aspects of the technology involve a program directory database, compiled automatically from information reported by network nodes that watch and identify content traffic passing into (and/or out of) networked computers. By identifying content resident at a number of different repositories (e.g., web sites, TV networks, P2P systems, etc.), such a directory allows cell phone users to identify the diversity of sources from which desired content can be obtained—some available on a scheduled basis, others available on demand. Depending on the application, the directory information may be transparent to the user—serving to identify sources for desired content, from which application software can pick for content downloading, based, e.g., on context and stored profile data. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed. |
| US08490127B2 |
Distributed TV access system
Distributed navigation of broadcast signals is provided through an on-line application connected through a second network connection. A customer receives the broadcast signals through a first network connection, and navigates the broadcast TV content through an on-line application by a browser connected through a second network connection. The present on-line application provides flexible and re-configurable content services, which will need to be customized once for each service provider, but will render consistently on a variety of PC and non-PC client devices. Further, the present on-line application can provide targeted advertising by maintaining an advertising profile for each viewer, determined in part by recording data about the navigating of the content of the broadcast signals, and by recording a plurality of selections of the viewer transmitted to the on-line application. The on-line capability further provides ease for roaming access. |
| US08490125B2 |
Video content navigation with revenue maximization
A method for maximizing revenue in a video-on-demand (VOD) system operated by a service provider is disclosed. For a plurality of VOD content items, an expected revenue value to the service provider for each content item is calculated, based on an estimated value of revenue for the content item, weighted by an estimated probability that a subscriber will select the content item for viewing. The one or more highest ranked content items of the plurality of VOD content items is selected, rank being determined such that content items having higher expected revenue values are ranked higher than content items having lower expected revenue values. Identifying information about the one or more highest ranked content items is delivered to a set-top device associated with the subscriber, for presentation to the subscriber on a menu from which the one or more highest ranked content items can be selected for viewing. |
| US08490123B2 |
Method and device for generating a user profile on the basis of playlists
In a method and device for generating a user profile on the basis of playlists, the user profile is generated on the basis of the user's own playlists and properties derived from them. In this way, more playlists are considered in the generation of a user profile, thereby generating a more reliable user profile. Aspects taken into account includes frequency of occurrence, creation date of the playlist, and relation between content items (songs, video, etc.) in one or more playlists. |
| US08490121B1 |
Slim-type optical disc drive
A slim-type optical disc drive includes a casing and a tray. A first circuit board is disposed within the casing. A second circuit board is disposed on the tray. A spring switch is disposed on the second circuit board. A first end of the spring switch is fixed on the second circuit board. A resistor is connected between the first end of the spring switch and a first power source. A second end of the spring switch is extended outside the second circuit board. In a tray-out status, the second end of the spring switch is not contacted with any object, so that a first status signal is generated. In a tray-in status, the second end of the spring switch is contacted with a conducting zone of a second power source, so that a second status signal is generated. |
| US08490117B1 |
Bridging script engines
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including medium-encoded computer program products, for bridging script engines. In one aspect, a method includes providing a first script engine to interpret scripts of a first script type; providing a second script engine to interpret scripts of a second script type; and bridging between the first script engine and the second script engine, wherein the bridging includes sharing identifiers defined for the first script engine with the second script engine, the sharing allowing scripts in the first script engine to refer to identifiers defined for the second script engine and scripts in the second script engine to refer to identifiers defined for the first script engine. |
| US08490116B2 |
Emulating legacy video using UEFI
Techniques for supporting legacy VGA video using UEFI standard and extended UEFI graphics drivers. When an operating system that does not natively support the UEFI display protocols requires video services provided by firmware, the operating system communicates a request for video services to a generic video option ROM. The generic video option ROM notifies a generic video SMM driver of the request for video services. Such notification may be performed using a software system management interrupt (SMI). Upon notification, the generic video SMM driver notifies a third party UEFI video driver of the request for video services. The third party video driver provides the requested video services to the operating system. In this way, a third party UEFI graphics driver may support a wide variety of operating systems, even those that do not natively support the UEFI display protocols. |
| US08490115B2 |
Ambient state for asynchronous methods
A method of providing asynchronous programming support at run time for scope-based ambient state at a method call is disclosed. In response to the method call, an asynchronous method stack frame is created along with ambient state for the asynchronous method call. In one example of the method, a current frame of a method stack is captured. A new frame is instantiated by setting a previous reference of the new frame to the current frame and moving data from the previous frame into the current frame. One example of instantiating the new frame includes pushing the current frame onto the stack. In another example, the new frame is lazily created when changes have been made. A state machine used to transform the synchronously-created method into an asynchronous method is moved from a current state to a next state. The captured frame is restored. |
| US08490112B2 |
Data communications for a collective operation in a parallel active messaging interface of a parallel computer
Algorithm selection for data communications in a parallel active messaging interface (‘PAMI’) of a parallel computer, the PAMI composed of data communications endpoints, each endpoint including specifications of a client, a context, and a task, endpoints coupled for data communications through the PAMI, including associating in the PAMI data communications algorithms and bit masks; receiving in an origin endpoint of the PAMI a collective instruction, the instruction specifying transmission of a data communications message from the origin endpoint to a target endpoint; constructing a bit mask for the received collective instruction; selecting, from among the associated algorithms and bit masks, a data communications algorithm in dependence upon the constructed bit mask; and executing the collective instruction, transmitting, according to the selected data communications algorithm from the origin endpoint to the target endpoint, the data communications message. |
| US08490107B2 |
Processing resource allocation within an integrated circuit supporting transaction requests of different priority levels
An integrated circuit 2 includes a plurality of transaction sources 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 communicating via a ring-based interconnect 30 with shared caches 22, 24 each having an associated POC/POS 30, 34 and serving as a request servicing circuit. The request servicing circuits have a set of processing resources 36 that may be allocated to different transactions. These processing resources may be allocated either dynamically or statically. Static allocation can be made in dependence upon a selection algorithm. This selection algorithm may use a quality of service value/priority level as one of its input variables. A starvation ratio may also be defined such that lower priority levels are forced to be selected if they are starved of allocation for too long. A programmable mapping may be made between quality of service values and priority levels. The maximum number of processing resources allocated to each priority level may also be programmed. |
| US08490103B1 |
Allocating computer processes to processor cores as a function of process utilizations
Computer processes are allocated among cores of a multi-core multi-processor system at least in part as a function of utilization histories of the processes. |
| US08490100B2 |
Terminal and method for performing device management scheduled based on threshold
Commands for device management to be executed within a terminal and threshold-based conditions for executing such commands included within a scheduling context are provided to the terminal ahead of time. Therefore, the terminal can perform the commands for device management, before errors occurs within the terminal since a value of a particular management object reaches the threshold. |
| US08490099B2 |
Method and system for controlling a scheduling order per daypart category in a music scheduling system
A system and method for controlling a scheduling order per category is disclosed. A scheduling order can be designated for the delivery and playback of multimedia content (e.g., music, news, other audio, advertising, etc) with respect to particular slots within the scheduling order. The broadcast day is divided into dayparts according to specific time slots. The dayparts are assigned with specific daypart categories wherein multimedia is scheduled. The scheduling order can be configured to include a slotted by daypart scheduling technique to control the scheduling order for the eventual airplay of the multimedia content over a radio station or network of associated radio stations. |
| US08490098B2 |
Concomitance scheduling commensal threads in a multi-threading computer system
A method and an apparatus for concomitance scheduling a work thread and assistant threads associated with the work thread in a multi-threading processor system. The method includes: searching one or more assistant threads associated with the running of the work thread when preparing to run/schedule the work thread; running the one or more assistant threads that are searched; and running the work thread after all of the one or more assistant threads associated with the running of the work thread have run. |
| US08490096B2 |
Event processor for job scheduling and management
Event processor system and method for job scheduling and management applications are provided. A single process event processor comprises a plurality of threads enabled to handle one or more events. Each of the plurality of threads is asynchronous and has a database connection. |
| US08490095B2 |
Method and system for detecting program deadlock
A method and/or system for detecting deadlock, comprising: obtaining lock information related to locking operation in a program; generating a first lock graph based on the obtained lock information, wherein each node in the first lock graph comprises a set of locks comprising at least one lock and a set of program locations comprising at least one lock location; extracting a strongly connected sub graph in the first lock graph; unfolding the strongly connected sub graph in the first lock graph to generate a second lock graph, wherein each node in the second lock graph comprises a single lock; and extracting a strongly connected sub graph in the second lock graph, the strongly connected sub graph in the second lock graph indicating a deadlock in the program. |
| US08490091B2 |
Virtual machine placement to improve memory utilization
Virtual machines having a high amount of identical memory pages are grouped under a common hypervisor to enable greater memory savings as the result of transparent page sharing. One embodiment provides a computer program product including computer usable program code for performing a method that comprises analyzing the software image content of a plurality of virtual machines running on a plurality of hypervisors in a common migration domain, identifying two or more of the virtual machines having greater than a threshold amount of common memory pages, placing the two or more virtual machines under a common hypervisor, and sharing the common memory pages among the two or more virtual machines. Optionally, the identifying of two or more of the virtual machines may include identifying two or more of the virtual machines having the same software image content classifications; thereby, identifying images with a greater affinity for common memory pages. |
| US08490090B2 |
Multilevel support in a nested virtualization environment
A method of handling an event occurring in a nested virtualization computing environment is provided, wherein N hypervisors are executed nestedly, with a first hypervisor running at level zero (L0) directly over a host machine, and other hypervisors nestedly running at levels L1 to Ln, respectively. The method comprises trapping an event generated by software running at level Ln; determining a hypervisor x at level Lx designated for handling the trapped event; and wherein the hypervisor x emulates features needed for performing the trapped event for the software running at the level Ln. |
| US08490085B2 |
Methods and systems for CPU virtualization by maintaining a plurality of virtual privilege leves in a non-privileged mode of a processor
A method for running, on a processor in non-privileged mode, different computer programs P while, in a nominal mode, using privileged instructions including running a hypervisor program in privileged mode of the processor, the hypervisor program providing the computer programs P with services substantially equivalent to those available for running in privileged mode, source codes of the computer programs P being modified beforehand for replacing the privileged instructions with calls for services supplied by the hypervisor program, and the hypervisor program creates at least two privileged submodes organized into a hierarchy within the non-privileged mode and the processor includes only two operating modes. |
| US08490081B2 |
Method and apparatus for installing software in mobile communication terminal
Disclosed is a method and an apparatus for installing software in a mobile communication terminal. The apparatus for installing software in a mobile communication terminal, includes an external memory having software to be installed, a detector of the mobile communication terminal for, if an external memory is plugged in the mobile communication terminal, detecting a plugging state of the external memory, a memory being embedded in the mobile communication terminal, and a controller of the mobile communication terminal for reading the software to be installed from the external memory and storing the software in the memory if connection with the external memory is detected. |
| US08490077B2 |
Runtime versioning and distribution of dynamic web-elements
A product server downloads distributed application component from a resource server and updates an application at a predetermined synchronization time. Other aspects include associating a distributed application component and a local application component with a virtual path. If a product server is unable to access the local application component with a virtual path, the distributed application component is downloaded from a resource server. |
| US08490075B2 |
Method and apparatus for optimizing an exchange of service updates
An approach is provided for optimizing an exchange of service updates. A service update manager determines factors related to a level of activity, context, status, or combination thereof between a first device and a second device with respect to an information sharing service. The service update manager then computes a pair update rate for sharing information between the first device and second device via the information sharing service based on the determined factors, and transmits the pair update rate to the first device and the second device. If the first device and second device are members of a group created in the information sharing service, the service update manager computes respective pair update rates for each pair of members within the group, and computes a group update rate based on the respective pair updates. If one or more members of the group are members of one or more other groups, the service update manager computes respective group update rates for the group and each of the one or more other groups, and computes an aggregate group update rate based on the respective group update rates. |
| US08490066B2 |
Profiler for optimizing processor architecture and application
A profiler which provides information to optimize an application specific architecture processor and a program for the processor is provided. The profiler includes: an architecture analyzer which analyzes an architecture description, and generates architecture analysis information, the architecture description describing an architecture of an application specific architecture processor which comprises a plurality of processing elements; a static analyzer which analyzes program static information that describes static information of a program, and generates static analysis information; a dynamic analyzer which analyzes program dynamic information that describes dynamic information of the program, and generates dynamic analysis information, the dynamic information of the program being generated by simulating the program; and a cross profiling analyzer which generates information for optimizing the application specific architecture processor to implement the program based on at least one of the architecture analysis information, the static analysis information, and the dynamic analysis information. |
| US08490065B2 |
Method and apparatus for software-assisted data cache and prefetch control
The present invention provides a computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for compiling instructions to manage a cache system. Loop constructs are analyzed to identify data usage characteristics for cache and prefetching conditions in instructions to form identified prefetch conditions. A set of control instructions are inserted into the instructions based on the data usage characteristics and the identified prefetch conditions to form multiple modified instructions. The set of multiple modified instructions are compiled to generate code for execution to form compiled instructions. The set of control instructions in the compiled instructions form a cache management policy to control movement of data in a memory system during execution of the compiled instructions. |
| US08490063B2 |
Debugging extensible markup language
Disclosed is a method and system for debugging XML files or documents by inserting a breakpoint into an XML file and converting the XML file into a bytecode format, where the breakpoint is propagated into the bytecode format and stored in runtime libraries. During runtime, on encountering the breakpoint, the location of the breakpoint is internally determined in the bytecode and points to the location of the breakpoint in the XML file. |
| US08490062B2 |
Automatic identification of execution phases in load tests
A method for automatic identification of execution phases in load test data includes receiving load test data indicating processor utilization for threads over a period of time divided into a plurality of intervals. For each pair of proximate intervals, it is determined whether thread-wise processor utilization for a first interval is statistically indistinguishable from that of a second interval. The pair of proximate intervals is combined when it is determined that the processor utilization for the first interval is statistically indistinguishable from that of the second interval. Each of the pair of proximate intervals is divided into subintervals when it is determined that the first interval is not statistically indistinguishable the second interval. One or more execution phases are automatically identified as occurring between proximate intervals that are not substantially equivalent. |
| US08490057B2 |
Confidence-based static analysis
Systems, methods and program products are provided for confidence-based static analysis, including initiating a static analysis of computer software, associating a confidence value with a first element of the static analysis, determining a current state of the static analysis, calculating an adjusted confidence value in accordance with a confidence adjustment function as applied to the current state and the confidence value associated with the first element, associating the adjusted confidence value with a second element of the static analysis resulting from a transition from the first element, and eliminating the second element from the static analysis if the adjusted confidence value meets elimination criteria. |
| US08490053B2 |
Software domain model that enables simultaneous independent development of software components
One embodiment of the present invention provides a software domain model that enables simultaneous independent development of software components. A system using this model includes a first component, a second component, and a core layer that defines an item that can be accessed by the first and second components. Both components are able to independently and separately extend the definition of the item. A high-level software layer uses a set of micro-orchestrations to perform a holistic task, with each micro-orchestration invoking a piece of functionality in a component, the core layer, and/or the software layer. |
| US08490052B2 |
Declarative programming model for authoring and execution control and data flow for resource oriented system
A data set may be managed by a host that provides access to clients through a protocol, such as a RESTful HTTP interface. A resource script may be expressed according to a script language featuring two types of instructions: data set instructions that correspond to the verbs of the protocol, and flow control instructions that alter the flow of execution of the resource script. At runtime, an execution context for the resource script may be selected as a local execution context (through a local script processor that issues protocol verbs to the host based on the data set operations) or a remote execution context (by sending the resource script to a script processor located on the host.) The runtime selection of data context may be executed without having to reconfigure the resource script, and with an equivalent effect on the data set. |
| US08490047B2 |
Graphical mashup
This document describes various techniques for creating, modifying, and using graphical mashups. In one embodiment, a graphical mashup is created based on locations of graphical representations of objects in a working area. Logical connections between the objects are created based on the objects' locations relative to each other. Alternatively or additionally, the techniques may enable a user to create or modify a graphical mashup by adding or deleting objects, modifying logical connections between objects, annotating objects, or abstracting the graphical mashup. |
| US08490042B2 |
Performing routing optimization during circuit design
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that concurrently optimizes multiple routing objectives during routing of an integrated circuit (IC) chip design. During operation, the system starts by receiving a routing solution for the IC chip design and a set of routing objectives. The system then partitions the IC chip design into a set of partitions. Next, for each partition in the set of partitions, the system optimizes the routing solution by, iteratively: (1) analyzing the routing solution to determine weights for the set of routing objectives; (2) constructing a cost function based on the weights for the set of routing objectives; and (3) modifying the routing solution within the partition to attempt to optimize the cost function. |
| US08490036B2 |
System and technique of pattern matching and pattern replacement
A system and technique to specifies patterns to search for in an integrated circuit layout, and specifies proposed replacement patterns. A description file includes specifications for one or more patterns to be searched for. In the description file, for each pattern, there may be one or more proposed replacement patterns. The description file is read. Pattern matches, if any, in a layout are found. A proposed replacement pattern is tested in place of a matched pattern. If acceptable, the proposed pattern may be used to replace the matched pattern. |
| US08490033B2 |
Method and apparatus for designing patterning system based on patterning fidelity
A method which directly incorporates patterning fidelity into the design of a patterning system is provided. A production result of a target pattern is simulated according to a set of design parameters to obtain a simulated pattern. The target pattern is compared with the simulated pattern to obtain a patterning fidelity, and the values of the set of design parameters of the patterning system are adjusted according to a target patterning fidelity to optimize the values of the set of design parameters of the patterning system. |
| US08490028B2 |
Method for determining a grey level etch mask
A method for determining, by means of a computer, a photolithography mask for the manufacturing a microstructure by grey level etching of a resist layer, this mask including a plurality of elementary cells, each including an opaque area arranged, in top view, in a non-peripheral portion of a transparent region or, conversely, in a transparent area arranged, in top view, in a non-peripheral portion of an opaque region, comprising the steps of: a) initializing the mask pattern in a first state; b) determining, by simulation, the profile of the microstructure which would result from the use of the mask according to said pattern; c) adjusting said pattern by modifying, in certain cells, the position of the opaque or transparent area within the cell; and d) forming the mask according to said pattern. |
| US08490025B2 |
Displaying content associated with electronic mapping systems
Various methods, systems and apparatus for displaying alternate content in a digital mapping system, are disclosed. One such method may include detecting a change in a zoom level of an electronic map displaying geographic content (e.g. tile-based digital map, satellite image, etc.) on a computing device (e,g. desktop/laptop, smart phone, etc, running Windows®, Linux®, Mac OS®, iOS®. Android®, etc.); determining a predetermined (eg. maximum) zoom level has been reached; retrieving alternate content, and displaying the alternate content in addition to, or in place of, some-or-all of the geographic content. The method may further include detecting a zoom-out command while the alternate content is being displayed, and in response, restoring the display of the geographic content (e.g. at the maximum zoom level and/or last state of the geographic content display prior to displaying the alternate content.) Alternate content may be associated with any portion of geographic content displayed (e.g. the portion of the geographic content visible at the maximum zoom level) and may be selected via various algorithms and be manipulate-able via map display application controls. |
| US08490021B2 |
User interface for navigating large scale hierarchical namespaces
A system and method of displaying user interface information with respect to navigation of a hierarchical namespace is disclosed. The hierarchical namespace includes a first set of items representing a top level portion of the hierarchical namespace and a second set of items representing lower levels of the hierarchical namespace. |
| US08490017B2 |
Recording medium, playback apparatus and method, recording method, and computer-readable program implementing stream model information showing whether graphics stream is multiplexed or non-multiplexed with video system
A BD-ROM stores a video stream and a graphics stream. The video stream represents a moving picture. The graphics stream is used for overlaying a multi-page menu on the moving picture, and includes interactive control information (ICS) and graphics data (ODS) used for generating the multi page menu. A PTS attached to a PES packet containing the interactive control information shows timing for the first presentation of a main page the multi-page menu in accordance with the proceeding of the video stream playback. In addition, the interactive control information includes information (selection_time_out_pts) showing a timeout upon which a button on a page of the multi-page menu is automatically activated, and information (user_time_out_duration) showing a timeout upon which a sub-page of the multi-page menu is automatically removed. |
| US08490011B2 |
Display of supplementary information on a graphical user interface
Disclosed are method and apparatus for displaying supplementary information on a graphical user interface. A request for supplementary information is received. The supplementary information is retrieved and displayed in a reserved display field in a graphical user interface. The reserved display field may be configured by a user to adapt to specific applications, but remains stationary throughout the user session. The reserved display field does not obstruct any other display fields in the graphical user interface. A request for supplementary information may be generated by using a mouse to first position a cursor over an active display element. A request for supplementary information associated with the active display element may be generated by clicking the mouse, or by holding the cursor stationary for a time interval greater than a threshold dwell time. |
| US08490010B2 |
Selective display of graphical user interface elements
A subset of a plurality of input elements associated with a form to be rendered in a graphical user interface may be identified. Thereafter, the rendering of the form may be initiated such that the graphical user interface renders a form to include the subset of the plurality of input elements and to exclude input elements that are not within the subset. Related techniques, apparatuses, systems, and computer program products are also described. |
| US08490008B2 |
Touchscreen keyboard predictive display and generation of a set of characters
A method including receiving an input of a character from a virtual keyboard rendered on a display, generating a set of characters that includes the character, and displaying the generated set of characters at a location that is associated with the virtual keyboard and that is on the display. An electronic device including a display having a virtual keyboard rendered thereupon and a processor, the processor being configured to perform the method. Also disclosed is a keyboard, including a plurality of keys, each key corresponding to one or more different characters of a plurality of characters, wherein in response to receiving an input of a character, the keyboard is configured to generate a set of characters that includes the character, and the keyboard is further configured to cause display of the generated set of characters at a location that is associated with the virtual keyboard and that is on the display. |
| US08490007B1 |
Method and apparatus for motivating interactions between users in virtual worlds
The present invention relates generally to the field of computer and network software, and more particularly it relates to a method and apparatus for promoting and facilitating interactions between users in virtual worlds. According to some aspects, the invention provides a way of allowing a user to easily identify other users that the user may want to connect with for any purpose. According to other aspects, the invention allows users to specify items, interests, friends, demographics and/or preferences, and the system automatically identifies other users who meet those criteria. The system can further provide mechanisms to alert and/or introduce users who share similar interests, demographics and/or meet other matching criteria, and allow them to interact with each other. According to still further aspects, the invention can automatically determine criteria for motivating and/or facilitating interactions between users. According to still further aspects, the invention can motivate and/or facilitate interactions between users while they are casually surfing the web, as opposed to visiting a special web site or specific network location. |
| US08490005B2 |
Visual enhancement for instrument panel
Aspects of the disclosed subject matter are directed to a graphical display that provides a visual enhancement in conveying a vehicle reading. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided that causes the graphical display to render a border of an instrument with a distinguishing visual attribute. More specifically, the method includes assigning a priority level to an instrument used to convey a vehicle reading. When an abnormal condition is identified, the instrument is assigned an enhanced priority level that corresponds to the abnormal condition. Then, the method causes the graphical display to render the instrument, wherein that border of the instrument is depicted with an enhanced visual attribute indicative of the abnormal condition. In this regard, the enhanced visual attribute distinguishes the instrument from one or more other instruments depicted on the graphical display that are not assigned an enhanced priority level. |
| US08490000B2 |
Program, method and system for selecting the three-dimensional model of a component
A computer functioning as three-dimensional (3D) computer aided design (3D-CAD) system executes the process for selecting a 3D model of a component from a library. The process includes a step for designating a category of a component; a step for displaying a menu for designating values of category-dependent items representing a specification of the component; a step for narrowing down, on the basis of the designated value, records of a database, in which each record for each component includes the items representing the specification; a step for extracting a possible value of an item with its value being undetermined and accordingly updating a choice(s) selectable via the menu; and a step for determining, to be a 3D model to be loaded from the library, the 3D model of the component uniquely determined after repeating the above-mentioned steps for narrowing-down, extracting and updating for one time or more. |
| US08489995B2 |
Systems and methods for efficiently managing and configuring virtual servers
The present invention is related to providing faster and more efficient ways to deploy and manage virtual server configurations in a hosted virtual server service. Broadly, a web interface allows a user to set conditions upon which specific types of virtual servers will be instantiated or terminated on a third-party hosted virtual server service. For example, the user may wish to instantiate a new virtual server each time the load on existing virtual servers exceeds a predetermined threshold. The web interface may also allow a user to select from among a plurality of hosted virtual server services. The web interface may further allow a user to incorporate dynamic variables into configurations of instantiated virtual servers. |
| US08489994B2 |
Systems and methods for communicating
A communication system comprising one or more computer readable mediums; comprising determining means operable to determine an attribute of a communication device; identifying means operable to identify an avatar by using the attribute, wherein the avatar is such that it conveys to a viewer thereof information about a person; and communicating means operable to communicate the avatar to the communication device in a virtual environment |
| US08489993B2 |
Storage medium storing information processing program, information processing apparatus and information processing method
A game apparatus saves, in accordance with an instruction of a user, a photographing image taken by an inward camera or an outward camera, or a handwriting image of a handwritten note inputted using a touch panel. Moreover, in accordance with an instruction of the user, position information is saved together with the photographing image or the handwriting image. That is, a photographing place or a creation place of the handwritten note is registered on a map. When the photographing image or the handwriting image is reproduced, an image of a landmark set near a position on the map indicated by the position information is reproduced before the photographing image or the handwritten image. |
| US08489992B2 |
User interface with visual progression
In one embodiment, a graphics user interface is provided. The graphics user interface includes a plurality of graphical representations identifying separate audio data, respectively. Each of the plurality of graphical representations is configured in a list to be selected for playback of the respective audio data. A progression icon is displayed in each of the respective graphical representations. Each progression icon illustrates a temporal progression of the playback of the respective audio data. |
| US08489991B2 |
System and method for video frame marking
There is provided a system and method for video frame marking. It is preferable that a tagged video frame is visually perceptible in the set of chronologically ordered video frames shown in the display. The selection of each video frame preferably causes playback of an excerpt of the video with a duration of the common predetermined interval. The video frame may denote a scene from a portion of the excerpt of the video, such as, for example, start, middle and end. It is advantageous that the excerpts of the video of each tagged video frame is combined using the user interface to generate a concise representation of the video. The concise representation of the video may be in a form where excerpts of the video of each of the tagged video frames are played back at a normal rate while excerpts of the video of each of other video frames are played back at an accelerated rate. |
| US08489985B2 |
Automatically adjusting a webpage
A solution is provided for automatically adjusting a webpage. According to the method of the present invention it can be automatically learned what the user's historical browsing behaviors are and thereby predict which block in the webpage would interest the user more so that it would be the one to be browsed and then adjust display of the block accordingly. Thus, with the present invention, limited screen resources can be utilized to more efficiently display the content that would interest a user when the user browses a webpage. A system for automatically adjusting a webpage and a computer readable article of manufacture tangibly embodying non-transitory computer readable instructions which, when executed, cause a computer to carry out the steps of a method for automatically adjusting a webpage, are also provided. |
| US08489981B2 |
Look ahead of links/alter links
A computationally-implemented method comprises retrieving at least a portion of data from a data source, determining an acceptability of an effect of the retrieved at least a portion of the data at least in part via a virtual machine representation of at least a part of an end user's real machine having one or more end-user specified preferences, and providing at least one data display option to the end user's real machine based on the determining acceptability of the effect of the retrieved at least a portion of the data. |
| US08489978B2 |
Error detection
A system and a method detects errors when writing data to a memory in a computer system. An error detection memory write request for writing an error detection value to a memory location within the memory section is issued, the error detection value being associated with the block of data. A data memory write request for writing the block of data to the memory section is issued such that at least part of the block of data is written to the memory location. A check is performed to determine whether the error detection value in the error detection memory write request corresponds to the block of data in the data memory write request. |
| US08489976B2 |
Storage controlling device and storage controlling method
According to an aspect of an embodiment, a method of storing user data (UD) with parity data (PD) for correcting the UD in a storage apparatus comprising disk units, each of the disk units storing data in data blocks(DBs), each of the DBs storing the UD or associated PD and position information(PI) indicative of the location of the DBs, comprising: obtaining the UD, dividing the UD into UD blocks (UDBs) which are adapted to be stored in the DBs, and determining which UDBs are to be stored into which DBs, respectively; determining PI of the DBs for storing the UDBs; generating PD for a group of UDBs and associated PI by parity operation using a weighting function to the UDBs and the PI; determining PI for the PD for said group by modifying a part of the PD; and storing the group of the UDBs, associated PI, and the PD. |
| US08489975B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting communication errors on a bus
A semiconductor memory includes multi-mode reporting signals, a state register, and parity detectors. The parity detector determines whether signals received on a communication bus contain a desired parity. The multi-mode reporting signals enable reporting of communication faults without adding additional signals to the semiconductor memory by being configured in a normal operating mode or a parity fault mode for reporting communication faults to an external memory controller. The state register enables storing of received values from the communication bus. With the state register, a memory controller may determine correctly received signal patterns and failing signal patterns. Parity may be defined as even or odd and may be generated based on various signal configurations. The embodiments may be configured as a computing system comprising a processor, an input device, an output device, the memory controller, and at least one semiconductor memory. |
| US08489973B1 |
Numerical solution on LLR exchange in turbo equalization
The present application refers to a method for determining an extrinsic information input to an ECC decoder of a turbo equalizer. In one embodiment, a first loop-back signal is represented with a first number of bits, wherein the first loop-back signal comprises a signal looped back from an output of an ECC decoder. An output of a signal detector is represented with a second number of bits. An extrinsic information input to the ECC decoder is determined based at least in part on the first loop-back signal, the represented output of the signal detector, and at least one comparison with at least one predetermined threshold. |
| US08489968B2 |
Recovery of transmission errors
A method for recovering transmission errors, comprising: receiving a data packet comprising an error detection code associated to data contained in the packet, wherein the data associated to the error detection code comprises primary data and secondary data, checking the error detection code of the received packet to detect an erroneous state of the associated data, when the erroneous state is detected, determining a finite set of candidate values for the primary data and, for each values of the set: determining a marginal likelihood of the candidate value as a function of the error detection code of the received packet, determining a first correlation between the primary data of the received packet and the candidate value, and selecting a corrected value for the primary data among the set of candidate values as a function of said marginal likelihoods and said first correlations. |
| US08489965B1 |
Long latency protocol for hard disk controller interface
Some of the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method comprising receiving a stream of codewords from a hard disk controller (HDC), receiving a write gate signal, the write gate signal configured to request a read/write (R/W) channel to write at least a first part of the stream of codewords to a media, and receiving a symbol count signal indicating a number of symbols in the first part of the received stream of codewords. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. |
| US08489961B2 |
Transmitting system and method of processing digital broadcast signal in transmitting system, receiving system and method of receiving digital broadcast signal in receiving system
A transmitting system, a receiving system, a method of processing broadcast signals and a method of receiving broadcast signals are disclosed.The method for transmitting a broadcast signal in a transmitter includes encoding mobile data for forward error correction (FEC) to build Reed-Solomon (RS) frames and dividing the built RS frames into RS frame portions, dividing the RS frame portions into Serially Concatenated Convolutional Code (SCCC) blocks and mapping the SCCC blocks to data blocks and scalable data blocks, corresponding to a plurality of data segments, wherein at least one of the SCCC blocks includes one of the data blocks and one of the scalable data blocks, encoding signaling data including a header and a payload, forming data groups including the data blocks and the scalable data blocks, wherein specific data blocks of the data blocks in the data groups include the signaling data having information for a number of ensembles being a collection of services transmitted through the data groups, interleaving data in the data groups, wherein the interleaved data includes a plurality of data segments, and wherein at least one of the plurality of data segments includes a part of one of the data blocks and a part of one of the scalable data blocks and transmitting the interleaved data during slots in a transmission frame. |
| US08489959B2 |
Sets of rate-compatible universal turbo codes nearly optimized over various rates and interleaver sizes
A method and apparatus for Turbo encoding uses a set of rate-compatible Turbo Codes optimized at high code rates and derived from a universal constituent code. The Turbo Codes have rate-compatible puncturing patterns. The method comprises: encoding a signal at a first and second encoder using a best rate 1/2 constituent code universal with higher code rates, the first encoder and the second encoder each producing a respective plurality of parity bits for each information bit; puncturing the respective plurality of parity bits at each encoder with a higher rate best puncturing patterns; and puncturing the respective plurality of parity bits at each encoder with a lower rate best puncturing pattern. In a variation, the best rate 1/2 constituent code represents a concatenation of polynomials 1+D2+D3 (octal 13) and 1+D+D3 (octal 15), D a data bit. A Turbo Encoder is provided which has hardware to implement the method. |
| US08489953B2 |
HARQ process management
The invention relates to a method for receiving data units when using one HARQ process of an HARQ protocol. The memory associated to the HARQ process is divided into several sub-areas, which are addressable by an identifier. Then, when data is received, same is stored in one of the sub-areas. By providing more than one sub-area for one HARQ process, it is possible to actually use one HARQ process for two (or more) different received data units, being from the same data flow or from a different data flow. The actual sub-area of the HARQ process for storing data units can be either freely selected at the receiving end or is indicated by an identifier associated with the data. Furthermore, persistent scheduled data is transmitted in units, scheduled at fixed time intervals. Thus, a control signaling field, usually used for indicating new units, can be used to store the identifier. |
| US08489949B2 |
Combining grant, acknowledgement, and rate control commands
Embodiments disclosed herein address the need in the art for reduced overhead control with the ability to adjust transmission rates as necessary. In one aspect, a first signal indicates an acknowledgement of a decoded subpacket and whether or not a rate control command is generated, and a second signal conditionally indicates the rate control command when one is generated. In another aspect, a grant may be generated concurrently with the acknowledgement. In yet another aspect, a mobile station monitors the first signal, conditionally monitors the second signal as indicated by the first signal, and may monitor a third signal comprising a grant. In yet another aspect, one or more base stations transmit one or more of the various signals. Various other aspects are also presented. These aspects have the benefit of providing the flexibility of grant-based control while utilizing lower overhead when rate control commands are used, thus increasing system utilization, increasing capacity and throughput. |
| US08489947B2 |
Circuit and method for simultaneously measuring multiple changes in delay
A circuit and method provide built-in measurement of delay changes in integrated circuit paths. The circuit includes a digital shift register to access multiple paths, and may be implemented in digital boundary scan to test I/O pin delays. Synchronous to a first frequency, the circuit applies an alternating signal to the paths and samples the paths' output logic values synchronous with a second frequency that is asynchronous and coherent to the first clock frequency. The shift register conveys the samples to a modulo counter that counts the number of samples between consecutive rising or consecutive falling edges in the signal samples from a selected path. Between the two edges, the path or a path characteristic is changed, and the resulting modulo count after the second edge is proportional to the change in delay. The circuit can compare the count, or the difference between counts, to test limits. |
| US08489943B2 |
Protocol sequence generator
A system for generating test signals to test characteristics of input-output (IO) cells includes a memory and a processor coupled together through an integrated circuit (IC) chip. The IC chip includes a controller configured to exchange signals between the memory and the processor through IO cells of the IC chip. The IC chip further includes a protocol sequence generator for generating test signals for testing characteristics of the IO cells. |
| US08489937B2 |
Storage subsystem and method for controlling the same
In storage subsystems, due to the significant increase in HDD capacity, the time for executing online verification is elongated, affecting accesses from the host computer. By comprehending the status of accesses to the HDD, the sections where error has occurred and the status of restoration thereof, it becomes possible to detect defective or error sections efficiently at an early stage, according to which the reliability and access performance of the storage subsystem can be improved. The present storage subsystem executes one or more of the following processes: (M1) intensive verification of a circumference of an error LBA, (M2) an area-based prioritized verification, and (M3) continuous verification performed for a long period of time to (V1) an area in which error has occurred via IO access, (V2) a highly accessed area, and (V3) during a period of time when IO access is low. |
| US08489932B2 |
Server system and crash dump collection method
There is provided a server system that collects memory information at the time of occurrence of a failure if a failure occurs in the operating system so as to enable failure analysis. Stall monitoring of a firmware is performed by hardware and, if a stall is detected, a reset is performed. A memory has a memory area used by a boot loader of the firmware and a memory area used by another part of the firmware. It is determined based on a reset factor retained in a device whether the reset is a normal reset or a reset associated with the stall detection. In the case where the reset is a reset associated with the stall detection, information of the memory area of the memory used by the another part of the firmware at the time of occurrence of the stall is collected. |
| US08489929B2 |
Facilitating large-scale testing using virtualization technology in a multi-tenant database environment
A system and method for testing in a database system. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving an indication of one or more changes to a software application, wherein each change corresponds to a different version of the software application. The method further includes generating one or more virtual machines for a version of the software application in response to the indication, wherein the one or more virtual machines test the version of the software application. |
| US08489928B1 |
Apparatus and method for dynamic removal and addition of electronic messaging services
A computerized method for electronic communication includes issuing via a mail client a set of extensions in a command to a MX server for an initial electronic communication; determining in the mail client one or more of the extensions, which failed; and for a subsequent electronic communication between the mail client and the MX server, for a predetermined time period, not issuing to the MX server by the mail client the one or more extensions, which failed. |
| US08489926B2 |
System and method for grammar based test planning
The present disclosure generally relates to the testing of a system that includes software or hardware components. In some embodiments, a testing framework generates a set of test cases for a system under test using a grammar. Each test case may perform an action, such as provide an input to the system under test, and result in an output from the system under test. The inputs and outputs are then compared to the expected results to determine whether the system under test is performing correctly. Prior to generating the set of test cases from the grammar, the testing framework processes the grammar to identify attributes of the test cases to be derived from the grammar and facilitates the modification of the grammar. |
| US08489922B2 |
Networked recovery system
A method and apparatus for networked recovery system is described herein. In one embodiment, a process is provided to obtain a type of recovery selected by a user. A non-volatile partition of a storage volume containing a recovery disk image is accessed. The recovery disk image does not include an installation package. If the obtained type of recovery is a predetermined type of recovery, a network connection is established using the recovery disk image and data is downloaded over the network connection for the obtained type of recovery. The obtained type of recovery of the system is performed. |
| US08489921B2 |
Transparent checkpointing and process migration in a distributed system
A distributed system for creating a checkpoint for a plurality of processes running on the distributed system. The distributed system includes a plurality of compute nodes with an operating system executing on each compute node. A checkpoint library resides at the user level on each of the compute nodes, and the checkpoint library is transparent to the operating system residing on the same compute node and to the other compute nodes. Each checkpoint library uses a windowed messaging logging protocol for checkpointing of the distributed system. Processes participating in a distributed computation on the distributed system may be migrated from one compute node to another compute node in the distributed system by re-mapping of hardware addresses using the checkpoint library. |
| US08489920B2 |
Method and apparatus integrating navigation and saving the writable state of applications
The invention includes a computerized method responding to a navigation cue from a user by saving the writable state of the application and directing the computer through the window operating system to perform the navigation task 36 indicated by the navigation cue. The invention includes the following, which will each be discussed in turn. An alteration mechanism including means for altering window operating system by altering the hook triggered by each navigation cue to integrate saving the writable state. The window operating system integrating response to each navigation cue and saving the writable state. Source code artifacts which can be installed to implement navigation cues triggering saving the writable state. A business method generating revenue for a business entity. |
| US08489919B2 |
Circuits and methods for processors with multiple redundancy techniques for mitigating radiation errors
Embodiments of circuits for processors with multiple redundancy techniques for mitigating radiation errors are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods and examples are also described herein. |
| US08489916B2 |
Multi-disk fault-tolerant system, method for generating a check block, and method for recovering a data block
A multi-disk fault-tolerant system, a method for generating a check block, and a method for recovering a data block are provided. The multi-disk fault-tolerant system includes a disk array and a calculation module connected through a system bus, the disk array is formed by p disks, and a fault-tolerant disk amount of the disk array is q; data in the disk array is arranged according to a form of a matrix M of (m+q)×p, where m is a prime number smaller than or equal to p−q; in the matrix M, a 0th row is virtual data blocks being virtual and having values being 0, a 1st row to an (m−1)th row are data blocks, an mth row to an (m+q−1)th row are check blocks. Therefore, during a procedure of generating the check block and recovering the data block in the multi-disk fault-tolerant system, calculation complexity is lowered. |
| US08489914B2 |
Method apparatus and system for a redundant and fault tolerant solid state disk
A solid state drive includes a first solid state disc controller (SSDC), a second SSDC and a flash array. The flash array includes a first flash port and a second flash port. The first SSDC is configured to connect to the flash array through the first flash port and the second flash array is configured to connect to the flash array through the second flash port. The first SSDC and the second SSDC are both configured to connect to all memory within the flash array and the first SSDC, second SSDC, and flash array are within a common solid state drive. |
| US08489913B2 |
Network system and network relay apparatus
The network system is provided. The network system includes: a first processing apparatus configured to provide a specific service; a second processing apparatus configured to provide the specific service, the first processing apparatus and the second processing apparatus having one identical address; a client apparatus configured to utilize the specific service; and a network relay apparatus connected directly or indirectly via interfaces to the first processing apparatus, the second processing apparatus, and the client apparatus and configured to relay packet transmission between the client apparatus and the first processing apparatus or the second processing apparatus, wherein the network relay apparatus forwards a received packet, which is received via the interface connecting with the client apparatus to be sent to the address as a destination, to one processing apparatus in a state enabled to provide the specific service between the first processing apparatus and the second processing apparatus. |
| US08489912B2 |
Command protocol for adjustment of write timing delay
A method, system, and computer program product are provided for adjusting write timing in a memory device based on a command protocol. For instance, the method can include enabling a write clock data recovery (WCDR) mode of operation. The method can also include transmitting WCDR data from a processing unit to the memory device during the WCDR mode of operation and another mode of operation of the memory device. Based on a phase shift in the WCDR data, a phase difference between a signal on a data bus and a write clock signal can be adjusted. Further, the method can include transmitting the signal on the data bus based on the adjusted phase difference between the signal on the data bus and the write clock signal. |
| US08489908B2 |
Information processing apparatus, power mode control method, and power mode control program product
An information processing apparatus switches from a regular power mode to a power saving mode in the event that a first control unit does not process packets for a certain period of time. The information processing apparatus includes a packet table in which packets to be processed by the first control unit are registered, and a determining unit for determining whether the system of the information processing apparatus can switch to the power saving mode. In the event that the determining unit determines that the system can switch to the power saving mode, a network controller processes the packets based on the packet table. |
| US08489904B2 |
Allocating computing system power levels responsive to service level agreements
A computer program product for initiating a task in a computer system including executing a method that includes receiving a task and a status of the task relative to a target service level. A current power state of the processor is determined. Execution of the task is initiated on the processor in response to the status indicating that the task is meeting the target service level and to the current power state being a low power state. It is determined if the processor can be moved into a high power state, the determining performed if the task is not meeting the target service level and the current power state is the low power state. If the processor can be moved into the high power state then the processor is moved into the high power state and execution of the task is initiated on the processor. |
| US08489902B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit
A semiconductor integrated circuit includes: a plurality of chips configured to receive an external voltage. Each one of the chips detects a signal delay characteristic of the one of the chips to generate an internal voltage having a level corresponding to the signal delay characteristic. |
| US08489901B2 |
Methods and systems for secure encryption of data
Provided is a data acquisition module. The data acquisition module includes a memory and a controller. The controller includes an encryption module configured to encrypt information written to the memory using a key included in the controller. The key is unique to the controller.Also provided is a method for processing identification information. The method includes encrypting information with a key included in a controller and storing the encrypted information. The key is unique to the controller. |
| US08489897B2 |
Method and circuitry for detecting a fault attack
A method of detecting a fault attack during a cryptographic operation using at least one look-up table including a plurality of sub-tables each having a same number of values of a fixed bit length, a fixed relation existing between values at same locations in each sub-table, the method including: performing a load operation to retrieve from the look-up table data values from a same location in each sub-table; verifying that the fixed relation exists between at least two of the data values; and generating an output signal based on the verification. |
| US08489895B2 |
Microprocessor identity device
A digital identity device for uniquely identifying legal entities. The digital identity device is used for secure electronic communications. |
| US08489892B2 |
Device and method for digital processing management of content so as to enable an imposed work flow
A device receives protected content and a license for the content, unprotects the content using an input key and retrieves a rule associated with the input key. The device then processes the content to create new content, retrieves at least one output key associated with the input key in the retrieved rule, protects the content using the output key and sends the newly protected content and the corresponding license. It is thus possible to impose a work flow as it is necessary for a device to store a particular key in order to access the content and as the rule imposes a particular output key depending on the input key. In a preferred embodiment, the content is scrambled using a symmetrical key that is encrypted by an asymmetrical key in the license. An alternate embodiment uses watermarking techniques instead of encryption. The invention finds particular use in video processing. |
| US08489891B2 |
Method for limiting service, method for limiting image processing and image processing system
A driver management apparatus is installed in a system including an image forming apparatus and plural information processing apparatuses. The driver management apparatus sends the information processing apparatus a driver for the image forming apparatus with a first key incorporated. The driver is so set that printing processing conditions whose designation with the information processing apparatus is prohibited cannot be designated. Further, the driver management apparatus sends the first key to the image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus uses the driver sent by the driver management apparatus to generate print data and encrypts the generated print data using the first key incorporated into the driver, and sends the encrypted print data to the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus decodes the print data received from the information processing apparatus using a second key of the information processing apparatus and performs a printing process using the decoded print data. |
| US08489890B2 |
Method and system for managing delayed user authentication
A system and methods for coordinating the operation of a client security module and a host security module on a mobile electronic device. The modules communicate with each other through a platform abstraction layer using application programming interfaces to coordinate their activities. In particular, on start-up of the device, the host security module obtains user authorization input from a user and passes the input to a client operating system for validation. Once validated, the host security module unlocks the host-side of the device. At the same time, the client operating system sends a notice or request to the client-side virtual machine requesting that the client-side be unlocked. Once the virtual machine is initialized and available it launches the client security module and unlocks the client-side. During the delay while the virtual machine loads, the user is given access only to the host applications. |
| US08489886B2 |
Double authentication for controlling disruptive operations on storage resources
A method, data processing system and program product is provided for performing double authentication for controlling disruptive operations on storage resources generated by a system administrator. A first request is received from a first user for generation of a first key. A first key is generated, provided to the first user and associated with the storage resource. An input is received from the administrator, the input comprises a second key and a command for performing the disruptive operation. The second key and the first key are compared. It is verified that the administrator is authorized as an administrator of the storage resource. The disruptive operation is performed on the storage resource if the second key and the first key match and the administrator is authorized. Otherwise, the performance of the disruptive operation is denied. |
| US08489883B2 |
Virtual world embedded security watermarking
A method, apparatus, and program product are provided for using watermarks to embed security features on avatars in a virtual world. A watermark engine receives security information for an avatar in a virtual world. The watermark engine creates a watermark for the avatar using the security information and associates the watermark with the avatar. The watermark may comprise at least one of: security preferences for the avatar, contact information for an owner of the avatar, and graphical information to cause alteration of the avatar when the avatar is recorded. |
| US08489879B2 |
Apparatus, method, program, and system for information processing
Provided is an information processing apparatus including a communication unit for communication with an external apparatus, an operating system running unit for running first and second operating systems, the first for communication via a first communication path under a first communication protocol, and the second for communication via a second communication path under a second communication protocol. The apparatus includes a storage including first and second data areas for the operating systems, and a shared area for both operating systems. A first encryption key is stored in the first area for first protocol communication. The first operating system encrypts the communication via the first path by the first key, acquires, from the external apparatus via the first path, a second encryption key for second protocol communication, and stores the second key into the shared area. The second operating system transfers the second key to the second data area. |
| US08489878B2 |
Communication across domains
Communication across domains is described. In at least one implementation, a determination is made that an amount of data to be communicated via an Iframe exceeds a threshold amount. The data is divided into a plurality of portions that do not exceed the threshold amount. A plurality of messages is formed to communicate the divided data across domains. |
| US08489877B2 |
System, method and computer product for sending encrypted messages to recipients where the sender does not possess the credentials of the recipient
A system for encrypting and decrypting messages using a browser in either a web or wireless device or secure message client software for transmission to or from a web server on the Internet connected to an email server or message server for the situation where the sender does not possess the credentials and public key of the recipients. The encryption and decryption is conducted using a standard web browser on a personal computer or a mini browser on a wireless device, or message client software on either a personal computer or wireless devices such that messages transmitted to the web or wireless browser or message client software can be completed and encrypted and signed by the user such that encrypted and signed data does not require credentials and public key of the recipients. A method for delivering and using private keys to ensure that such keys are destroyed after use is also provided. A method of transmitting encrypted messages to a web or wireless browser or message client and decrypting and verifying such messages by recipients who do not possess or who are not enrolled in a PKI and do not have private keys. A method for authenticating the sender/user of the browser, and a method for accessing or generating public and private keys for encrypting and decrypting messages for recipients who are not enrolled in a public key infrastructure. |
| US08489874B2 |
Encryption STE communications through private branch exchange (PBX)
A reach back secure communications terminal includes a digital PBX adapter that offers immediate and secure voice, data and video connectivity over any of various commercially available PBX systems. In addition to use with a PBX system, integrated components simplify access to varied networks allowing deployed users to select and connect quickly to a network that best supports their present mission. Commercial or optional NSA Type 1 encryption may be implemented. Networking options include any of PSTN, PBX, GSM (or CDMA or other cell telephone standard), SAT, IP and WiFi. The digital PBX adapter includes an audio mixer that converts a 4-wire input from a handset jack of a PBX handset base, into a 2-wire output destined for an encryption unit (FNBDT). The user determines a necessary gain of the audio mixer for the particular PBX system by trial and error using a multi-position switch. |
| US08489873B2 |
Migration apparatus, method and system for transferring data protected within a first terminal device to a second terminal device
The present invention provides a migration apparatus that realizes safe migration of secret data between a first terminal device and a second terminal device. Before transmitting the secret data to the second terminal device, the migration apparatus (i) receives, from the first terminal device, a minimum evaluation level required of a destination of the secret data by the first terminal device, (ii) receives, from the second terminal device, an evaluation level of the second terminal device, (iii) judges whether the evaluation level of the second terminal device is lower than the minimum evaluation level, and (iv) sends the secret data to the second terminal device only if the evaluation level of the second terminal device is no lower than the minimum evaluation level. |
| US08489870B2 |
System for initiating execution of bios (basic input/output system) based on position of display member relative to base member
A computer device comprising a display member coupled to a base member to enable variable positioning of the display member relative to the base member, and an initiating system to automatically initiate execution of a basic input output system (BIOS) based on a position of the display member relative to the base member. |
| US08489863B2 |
Processor including age tracking of issue queue instructions
An information handling system includes a processor with an instruction issue queue (IQ) that may perform age tracking operations. The issue queue IQ maintains or stores instructions that may issue out-of-order in an internal data store (IDS). The IDS organizes instructions in a queue position (QPOS) addressing arrangement. An age matrix of the IQ maintains a record of relative instruction aging for those instructions within the IDS. The age matrix updates latches or other memory cell data to reflect the changes in IDS instruction ages during a dispatch operation into the IQ. During dispatch of one or more instructions, the age matrix may update only those latches that require data change to reflect changing IDS instruction ages. The age matrix employs row and column data and clock controls to individually update those latches requiring update. |
| US08489859B2 |
Performing a deterministic reduction operation in a compute node organized into a branched tree topology
Performing a deterministic reduction operation in a parallel computer that includes compute nodes, each of which includes computer processors and a CAU (Collectives Acceleration Unit) that couples computer processors to one another for data communications, including organizing processors and a CAU into a branched tree topology in which the CAU is a root and the processors are children; receiving, from each of the processors in any order, dummy contribution data, where each processor is restricted from sending any other data to the root CAU prior to receiving an acknowledgement of receipt from the root CAU; sending, by the root CAU to the processors in the branched tree topology, in a predefined order, acknowledgements of receipt of the dummy contribution data; receiving, by the root CAU from the processors in the predefined order, the processors' contribution data to the reduction operation; and reducing, by the root CAU, the processors' contribution data. |
| US08489852B2 |
Method and system for manipulating data
A method of manipulating data includes receiving a data manipulation command for corresponding data, which corresponds to a first logical block address, to a second logical block address. The method further includes mapping the second logical block address to a physical block address, which is mapped to the first logical block address, in response to the data manipulation command. A system for manipulating data includes a host and a flash translation layer. The host transmits a data manipulation command for corresponding data, which corresponds to a first logical block address, to a second logical block address. The flash translation layer maps the second logical block address to a physical block address, which is mapped to the first logical block address, in response to the data manipulation command. |
| US08489849B2 |
Method for paramaterized application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)/field programmable gate array (FPGA) memory-based ternary content addressable memory (TCAM)
A method and apparatus for providing TCAM functionality in a custom integrated circuit (IC) is presented. An incoming key is broken into a predefined number of sub-keys. Each sub-key is sued to address a Random Access Memory (RAM), one RAM for each sub-key. An output of the RAM is collected for each sub-key, each output comprising a Partial Match Vector (PMV). The PMVs are bitwise ANDed to obtain a value which is provided to a priority encoder to obtain an index. The index is used to access a result RAM to return a result value for the key. |
| US08489847B2 |
Inter operating system memory hotswap to support memory growth in a non-virtualized system
A system memory is partitioned into a first paged partition for a first operating system and a second paged partition for a second operating system. The first paged partition is mapped into a first virtual memory partition, and the second paged partition is mapped into a second virtual memory partition. A subset of pages within the second virtual memory partition is marked as reclaimable by the first operating system to produce a set of marked pages. Responsive to a request by the first operating system for further memory, at least one reclaimable page selected from the set of marked pages is swapped out to a storage file, and the first operating system writes to the at least one reclaimable page. |
| US08489845B2 |
Storage system comprising multiple storage control apparatus
A pool, which is configured by multiple actual areas, is formed on the basis of two or more storage devices. A second storage control apparatus (DKC) determines, for each storage device, an unused capacity to be given to a first DKC with respect to each first DKC based on an unused capacity of each storage device and a request value of each storage device for each first DKC, and gives, for each first DKC, the unused capacity for each storage device determined with respect to the first DKC, to this first DKC. The request value of the storage device is based on a performance value, which is a value related to the performance of this storage device. The total capacity of multiple actual areas allocated to the virtual volumes by the first DKC is equal to or less than the unused capacity given with respect to each storage device. |
| US08489841B1 |
Manufacturing station dynamically configuring a data storage device with a validated configuration data record
A method is disclosed of configuring a data storage device. A manufacturing procedure is executed to generate a configuration data record. The configuration data record is compared to configuration execution records of an executable file, wherein the configuration execution records are for configuring at least one configuration file of the data storage device. When the configuration data record interlocks with the configuration execution records, the configuration file is modified. |
| US08489837B1 |
Systems and methods for handshaking with a memory module
According to certain aspects, a memory module is provided having at least one output configured to be operatively coupled to a memory controller of a host computer system. The memory module can be configured to operate in at least two modes comprising an initialization mode during which the memory module executes at least one initialization sequence and an operational mode. The memory module may include a controller circuit configured to cause the memory module to enter the initialization mode. The memory module may also include a notification circuit configured to drive the at least one output while the memory module is in the initialization mode to provide at least one notification signal to the memory controller indicating at least one status of the at least one initialization sequence. |
| US08489836B2 |
Secure memory management system and method
The present invention describes a system and a method for securely loading digital information from a storage device into a memory module in a data processing system, said data processing system comprising at least one storage device, one memory module and at least one processor, said data processing system further comprising a memory access controller module connected between the processor and the memory module, and a secure memory management module connected to the processor, the memory module, the storage device and the memory access controller. Requests by the processor for data are passed to the secure memory management module, which loads the data from the storage device to the memory module and configures the memory access controller such that the processor will have access to the data. |
| US08489833B2 |
Data backup method for flash memory module and solid state drive
A data backup method for a flash memory module is provided. The flash memory module includes a plurality of flash memory units. In the data backup method, a controller is first provided to receive a backup function enabling signal. The controller then configures the flash memory units according to the backup function enabling signal such that at least one of the flash memory units is configured as a backup storage area and the flash memory units that are not in the backup storage area are configured as a main storage area. The controller then checks and receives an updated status of important data in the main storage area and backs up the important data into the backup storage area according to the updated status. Accessing to the backup storage area and accessing to the main storage area by the controller are independent. |
| US08489831B2 |
Systems and methods for data snapshot replication using a token in a replication link
Systems and methods for data snapshot replication are disclosed. In an exemplary implementation, a method for data snapshot replication may include inserting a token into a replication link when a data snapshot is generated at a source. The token may be inserted into the replication link while input/output (I/O) operations are quiesced. The method may also include generating the data snapshot on a target in an order that the token is received. This enables systems which are replicating data to also replicate or duplicate snapshots without transferring additional data or re-transmitting the data in the snapshot. |
| US08489830B2 |
Implementing read/write, multi-versioned file system on top of backup data
Various embodiments of a computer system and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, a computer system includes hosts coupled to a backup medium. The backup medium stores data segments and objects, each object referencing one or more segments. A second host conveys a write request to a first host identifying a data entity comprising segments referenced by a first object. The first host restores a copy of the data entity and creates a second object referencing the segments that were referenced by the first object in response to receiving the write request. The first host adds segment references to the second object in response to receiving a change that adds data to the copy or deletes a portion of a segment from the copy. The first host removes a segment reference from the second object if a change deletes all of a segment from the copy. |
| US08489824B2 |
Selective memory compression for multi-threaded applications
A method, system, and computer usable program product for selective memory compression for multi-threaded applications are provided in the illustrative embodiments. An identification of a memory region that is shared by a plurality of threads in an application is received at a first entity in a data processing system. A request for a second entity in the data processing system to keep the memory region uncompressed when compressing at least one of a plurality of memory regions that comprise the memory region is provided from the first entity to the second entity. |
| US08489822B2 |
Providing a directory cache for peripheral devices
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a processor having at least one core and uncore logic. The uncore logic can include a home agent to act as a guard to control access to a memory region. Either in the home agent or another portion of the uncore logic, a directory cache may be provided to store ownership information for a portion of the memory region owned by an agent coupled to the processor. In this way, when an access request for the memory region misses in the directory cache, a memory transaction can be avoided. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US08489816B1 |
Predicting and optimizing I/O performance characteristics in a multi-level caching system
A predictive model specifies a workload to be applied to a hierarchy of caches having multiple levels of caches. The predictive model defines a configuration for the hierarchy of caches by specifying cache characteristics of each level of the hierarchy of caches and the underlying storage pool and applies the workload to the configuration. For each level of the configuration, the predictive model computes a performance metric based on a portion of the workload satisfied at the level and the cache characteristics of the level. The predictive model computes resource allocation metrics based on the performance metric for the levels and a cost associated with the configuration. Based on the workload, the configuration, performance metrics, and resource allocation metrics, the predictive model creates a design time recommendation for the hierarchy of caches, a configuration time recommendation and run time recommendation for the hierarchy of caches. |
| US08489815B2 |
Managing cache data and metadata
Embodiments of the invention provide techniques for managing cache metadata providing a mapping between addresses on a storage medium (e.g., disk storage) and corresponding addresses on a cache device at which data items are stored. In some embodiments, cache metadata may be stored in a hierarchical data structure comprising a plurality of hierarchy levels. When a reboot of the computer is initiated, only a subset of the plurality of hierarchy levels may be loaded to memory, thereby expediting the process of restoring the cache metadata and thus startup operations. Startup may be further expedited by using cache metadata to perform operations associated with reboot. |
| US08489812B2 |
Automated storage provisioning within a clustered computing environment
An approach for automatic storage planning and provisioning within a clustered computing environment is provided. Planning input for a set of storage area network volume controllers (SVCs) will be received within the clustered computing environment, the planning input indicating a potential load on the SVCs and its associated components. Analytical models (e.g., from vendors) can be also used that allow for a load to be accurately estimated on the storage components. Configuration data for a set of storage components (i.e., the set of SVCs, a set of managed disk (Mdisk) groups associated with the set of SVCs, and a set of backend storage systems) will also be collected. Based on this configuration data, the set of storage components will be filtered to identify candidate storage components capable of addressing the potential load. Then, performance data for the candidate storage components will be analyzed to identify an SVC and an Mdisk group to address the potential load. |
| US08489808B2 |
Systems and methods of presenting virtual tape products to a client
Systems and methods for presenting virtual tape products to a client are disclosed. An exemplary method may include allocating a plurality of disks connected to a host bus adapter (HBA) as both virtual tape storage and virtual disk storage. The method may also include translating at the HBA an input/output (I/O) communication between the client and the plurality of disks to access at least a portion of the plurality of disks allocated as virtual tape storage. The method may also include handling all other I/O communication between the client and the plurality of disks for access to the plurality of disks allocated as virtual disk storage. |
| US08489806B2 |
Storage apparatus and method of managing data storage area
To extend endurance and reduce bit cost, a storage apparatus includes a controller and a first storage device and a second storage device having a smaller erase count upper limit than the first storage device. Area conversion information includes correspondence of a first address of a data storage destination and a second address of a data storage area The controller selects an area corresponding to the first address, determines whether a rewrite frequency of the selected area is equal to or larger than a first threshold and, when the rewrite frequency is equal to or larger than the threshold, selects an area of the first storage device, and, when the rewrite frequency is smaller than the threshold, selects an area of the second storage device and maps the address of the selected area to the first address. |
| US08489798B2 |
Electronic device, control method thereof and recording medium
An electronic device is connectable to an external device. An interface substrate is detachably connected to a main substrate. A first interface is installed on the interface substrate, and the first interface which is connectable to the external device. A second interface is installed on the main substrate, and the second interface which is connectable to the external device. A selection unit selects one interface of the first interface on the interface substrate and the second interface on the main substrate. A communication unit communicates information with the external device through the interface selected by the selection unit. The selection unit selects an interface which is pre-designated or preferentially selects an interface which first receives a signal from the external device, between the first interface and the second interface. |
| US08489796B2 |
Wireless protocol adapter assembly with interchangeable connectors
The present invention relates to a wireless protocol adapter assembly for diagnostics, analysis, and monitoring. The wireless protocol adapter assembly provides a common connection interface between a sealed common electronics package and a plurality of vehicle connectors that access a plurality of vehicle networks respectively for translating and transferring signals between the plurality of in-vehicle networks and a host computer. The common connection interface allows the vehicle connector compatible with a particular vehicle type to be coupled to the common electronics package. The common electronics package can recognizes when it is connected to a vehicle network running a particular protocol and automatically switch to that protocol. A wireless protocol adapter board having a standard connection pinning arrangement allows wireless links to be changed or altered as wireless standards change and evolve. |
| US08489791B2 |
Processor bus bridge security feature for network processors or the like
Described embodiments provide a system having a bridge for communicating information between two processor buses. The bridge receives a command from a first bus, the command having an identification field and an address field. As the command is entered into a buffer in the bridge, the address field is checked against one or more addresses. If there is a match, then control bits are checked to see if the command will be allowed or not depending on the identification field value. If the command is not transferred to the second bus, a flag is set in the buffer, and an error message is returned to the first bus, and an interrupt may be generated. The control bits allow commands access to specific addresses on the second bus or deny the access depending on the command identification field. Bit-wise masking provides a range of values for identification and address field matching. |
| US08489789B2 |
Interrupt virtualization
In an embodiment, a device interrupt manager may be configured to receive an interrupt from a device that is assigned to a guest. The device interrupt manager may be configured to transmit an operation targeted to a memory location in a system memory to record the interrupt for a virtual processor within the guest, wherein the interrupt is to be delivered to the targeted virtual processor. In an embodiment, a virtual machine manager may be configured to detect that an interrupt has been recorded by the device interrupt manager for a virtual processor that is not currently executing. The virtual machine manager may be configured to schedule the virtual processor for execution on a hardware processor, or may prioritize the virtual processor for scheduling, in response to the interrupt. |
| US08489788B2 |
Data processor and control system
Provided are a data processor, and a control system, in which an interrupt controller and an event link controller are adopted. The event link controller responds to a generated event signal to output a start control signal for controlling start of an operation of a circuit module. The circuit module is able to generate an event signal. The event link controller generates the start control signal according to the correspondences between event signals and start control signals which are defined by event control information. The links between the event signals and start control signals can be prescribed by the event control information. Therefore, operations of circuit modules prescribed by such links can be controlled sequentially. The control neither involves save and return processes by CPU as in the interrupt processing, nor needs priority level control as executed on competing interrupt requests. |
| US08489782B2 |
Detecting accessories on an audio or video jack
A detection circuit can be configured to receive a digital value from an identification register and to determine a resistance at a conducting terminal of an audio or video jack plug using the digital value. The detection circuit can include a current source that outputs a current according to the digital value from the identification register and a comparator that compares a reference voltage to a voltage created by the current source across the resistance at the conducting terminal of the audio or video jack plug. A control logic circuit can be configured to store the digital value in the identification register, generate an interrupt signal to cause a processor to read the digital value, and identify a function of an accessory device including the audio or video jack plug, when the detection circuit determines the resistance at the conducting terminal of the audio or video jack plug. |
| US08489780B2 |
Power saving in NAND flash memory
Some embodiments of the invention may use a single control line signal as both a wake up signal and as an indicator of a device selection command. In a command-based protocol on a non-volatile memory bus, a host memory controller may assert a signal on a control line to bring all the memory devices on the bus into an operational mode, while concurrently placing a device selection command on the input/output lines. The memory device selected by the selection command may remain operational to perform a sequence of operations as directed by the host controller. The remaining (non-selected) memory devices may return to a sleep mode until a new signal on the control line is received, indicating a new selection command. |
| US08489778B2 |
Method and apparatus for using a single multi-function adapter with different operating systems
A flexible arrangement allows a single arrangement of Ethernet channel adapter (ECA) hardware functions to appear as needed to conform to various operating system deployment models. A PCI interface presents a logical model of virtual devices appropriate to the relevant operating system. Mapping parameters and values are associated with the packet streams to allow the packet streams to be properly processed according to the presented logical model and needed operations. Mapping occurs at both the host side and at the network side to allow the multiple operations of the ECA to be performed while still allowing proper delivery at each interface. |
| US08489775B2 |
System-wide time synchronization across power management interfaces and sensor data
A power management control system for an information handling system is disclosed. The power management control system includes a power management interface bus interfacing a plurality of devices, where one or more of the devices is each associated with a time clock. The power management control system further includes a management agent interfacing the power management interface bus. The management agent is configured to: receive a system time; synchronize the one or more time clocks based, at least in part, on the system time; and maintain synchronization of the one or more time clocks, at least in part, via a set of telemetric primitives. |
| US08489771B2 |
Address book transmission program, address book transmission method, and address server
The present invention provides a computer-readable recording medium having recorded therein an address book transmission program for causing a computer, which includes a storage that stores therein one or more pieces of address book data, to transmit the pieces of address book data to a data transmission apparatus, each of the pieces of address book data corresponding to one or more senders, the address book transmission program causing the computer to execute: a receiving step of receiving, from the data transmission apparatus, apparatus information indicating a state of the data transmission apparatus; a reading step of reading a piece of address book data that corresponds to a sender out of the pieces of address book data stored in the storage; a judging step of, based on the apparatus information received in the receiving step, specifying a use mode that shows how the data transmission apparatus uses address book data, and judging whether or not the piece of address book data read in the reading step is appropriate to the specified use mode; an editing step of, if a result of the judging step is negative, editing the read piece of address book data so as to be appropriate to the specified use mode; and a transmitting step of transmitting the edited piece of address book data to the data transmission apparatus. |
| US08489768B2 |
Associated URLVS in exchanges
Web individuals' exchanges can be easily created by users inputting in, through a personal access, their identified URLvs from differing second-top level domain names. An associated identities database and a URLv syntax database can verify that these differing second-top domain name URLvs belong to the same individual. Once URLvs are verified, the URLvs are stored in individual's personal data repositories, which can extract data from the stored URLvs' webpages, including through using APIs. The result is that URLvs can be used to easily input data into prior-art web exchanges, or can create new web exchanges by multiple people inputting in their URLvs to the new web exchange. These features enable data portability of the individual's own data and weaken current monopoly individuals' exchange websites. |
| US08489761B2 |
Onload network protocol stacks
A method for transmitting data by means of a data processing system, the system supporting an operating system and at least one application and having access to a memory and a network interface device capable of supporting a communication link over a network with another network interface device, the method comprising the steps of: forming by means of the application data to be transmitted; requesting by means of the application a user-mode operating system functionality of the data processing system to direct the data to be transmitted, the request including an indication of a protocol by which the data is to be transmitted; responsive to that request, the user-mode operating system functionality selecting a protocol processing entity in accordance with the indication of a protocol by which the data is to be transmitted; forming within the context of the application by means of the protocol processing entity the data into packets for transmission in accordance with the protocol by which the data is to be transmitted and writing by means of the protocol processing entity the packets to be transmitted to an area of the memory; initiating by means of communication between the protocol processing entity and the network interface device a transmission operation of at least some of the packets over the network. |
| US08489756B2 |
Method, apparatus, and system for releasing resources
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method, an apparatus, and a system for releasing resources. The method includes: querying a reservation record according to information about a current session; judging whether a reservation record exists according to a result of the query; judging whether a conflicting session exists according to reservation information in the reservation record if the reservation record exists; obtaining reservation information of the conflicting session if the conflicting session exists, and releasing a corresponding reserved service unit according to the reservation information of the conflicting session; and reserving a service unit for the current session, storing reservation information of the current session, and forming a reservation record for the current session if no reservation record exists or no conflicting session exists or the corresponding reserved service unit is released. |
| US08489753B2 |
Apparatus and computer-implemented method for controlling migration of a virtual machine
Migration of a virtual machine from a source host to a destination host is controlled by referring to a graph data structure wherein one or more hosts are associated with at least some of the nodes of the graph data structure, a source node being associated with the source host and a destination node being associated with the destination host, and in which each link of the graph data structure is ascribed at least a permission value associated with the virtual machine, to determine if traversal of a path from the source node to the destination node is permitted by the permission values of the links in the path. Migration of said virtual machine is allowed if traversal from said source node to said destination node along the path is permitted. |
| US08489752B2 |
Method and system for controlling bus access
A system and method for controlling communications between a plurality of clients and a central component. An embodiment of the invention includes one or more buses that connect the clients and the central component. This embodiment also includes a control module that is configured to receive ASK messages from the clients and issue GO commands to the clients. Each ASK message represents a request from a client to access the central component. Each GO command to the client represents permission for that client to access the central component. The control module comprises delay stages that delay the GO command. The delays may be different from client to client. The number of delay stages is chosen so that for all clients, the delay between the issuance of a GO command and the receipt at the central component of communications from the clients is the same. |
| US08489748B2 |
Enhanced UPnP AV media renderer
A system for providing various overlay information one UPnP AV media renderers. According to the present invention, indications of messages and/or other information received by a UPnP mobile telephone or other UPnP control point can be directly transmitted to a renderer and exhibited in different manners. The present invention also permits the UPnP control point to transmit an event subscription to the renderer for subsequent use. The renderer permits accept or reject the receipt of various information at the particular time. |
| US08489744B2 |
Selecting a host from a host cluster for live migration of a virtual machine
A host controller migrates live virtual machines from one host to another host to balance the load in the host cluster. In one embodiment, the host controller identifies an overloaded host from the host cluster. The host controller selects a virtual machine from the existing virtual machines that run on the overloaded host based on a percentage value associated with the virtual machine. The percentage value represents CPU usage incurred by the virtual machine on the host. In one embodiment, the selected virtual machine is one that incurs the least amount of load on the host. The host controller then selects a target host from the host cluster as a destination for migrating the selected virtual machine. |
| US08489738B2 |
Matching engine for comparing data feeds with user profile criteria
An event notification matching system, including an event matching table forming a plurality of nodes. Each node is assigned a subscriber request value and contains identifiers for one or more subscribers to be notified at the occurrence of an event relating to the subscriber request value. The event notification matching system may also include a table index. The table index receives input values from an event processing module and selects one or more of the nodes that have subscriber request values corresponding to the received input values. The event processor receives event data from a predetermined source, and formats the input values to simplify the operations performed by the event matching table. The event notification matching system is configured such that the event data need not be compared to non-matching nodes in the event matching table. |
| US08489737B2 |
Monitoring performance and operation of data exchanges
A system and method for monitoring the performance associated with fulfilling resource requests are provided. One or more client computing devices obtain an original resource request and associate a record identifier with the original resource request. The one or more client computing devices also determine performance data associated with processing each embedded resource request included in a response to the original resource request. Each embedded resource request is associated with a component record identifier that is associated with, but different from, the record identifier of the original resource request. The one or more client computing devices can then transmit the determined performance data with the record identifier to another processing device. |
| US08489736B2 |
Mediation device, mediation method and mediation system
Hiding a service providing server from an authentication server is incompatible with involving the service providing server in the selection of the authentication server. An authentication mediation server (400) comprises a authentication server reliance condition storage unit (510) which stores a first identifier to specify at least one service providing server (100) in association with reliance conditions to authentication servers (200) in the service providing server (100); a user usage authentication server storage unit (520) which stores second identifiers to specify the respective plurality of authentication servers (200) in association with a third identifier to specify a user who uses the authentication servers (200); a high reliance authentication server calculation unit (460) which calculates degrees of reliance for the respective authentication servers (200), on the basis of the reliance conditions to the authentication servers (299) which are associated with the first identifier extracted from the authentication server reliance condition storage unit (519); and an authentication server selection unit (440) which selects a second identifier having the degree of reliance which satisfies a previously provided condition, from the second identifiers associated with the third identifier extracted from the user usage authentication server storage unit (520). |
| US08489735B2 |
Central cross-system PI monitoring dashboard
Embodiments of the present invention may provide a cross system monitor. The cross system monitor may function as a central dashboard for all PI components in PI domains being monitored. The cross system monitor may tightly integrate PI monitoring with system monitoring. Further, the cross system monitor may provide integration with incident management, notification management and alerting infrastructure. Moreover, the cross system monitor may provide context specific guidance with analysis. In addition, the cross system monitor may collect all necessary information regularly and automatically in background. |
| US08489733B2 |
Automatic enterprise service bus deployment at the level of individual services
A method and system for automatic ESB deployment at the level of individual services is described. One method deploys a first instance of an enterprise service bus (ESB) including multiple services. An ESB load balancer tracks the performance of the first ESB instance and determines a first service falls below a threshold. The ESB load balancer deploys a second ESB instance including a first duplicate service for the first service and a second duplicate service for a second service of the first ESB instance. The ESB load balancer determines that the first service falls below the threshold a second time and deploys a third ESB instance including a third duplicate service for the first service and a fourth duplicate service for a third service of the first ESB instance without user intervention. |
| US08489732B1 |
System and method of using spatial and temporal signals to identify and prevent attacks
Systems and methods according to aspects of the invention verify requests for information over a network. Computing devices communicating over a network transmit numerous signals with various types of information including spatial information, temporal information, device-specific information, and transmission specific information. This information may be used to generate statistical records of valid request for information. Various combinations of these signals may be used to determine whether a request for information is a valid request based on the statistical records associated with the signals. Where a request for information has been verified, the system and method may provide the information. Where the request for information has not been verified, the system and method may deny the request for information. Thus the system and method may be used to prevent and block scraping and spamming attacks. |
| US08489727B2 |
Active storage area network discovery system and method
An active SAN discovery system and method responds to events occurring in SAN by automatically broadcasting for information related to the occurred events and updating the SAN topology according to the collected information. |
| US08489725B2 |
Persisting file system information on mobile devices
A communication device and method are provided for storing and updating file system information for a network resource such as a content server or application server over a wireless connection. Data pertaining to a folder structure or content listing is received at the device and stored in persistent memory. Upon determination that the stored file system information has aged beyond a predetermined threshold and that a last modification time for the network resource is later than a time associated with the first file system information, a request is transmitted over a wireless connection for new file system information for the network resource. The request may be intercepted by a mobile data server that communicates with the network resource to provide the information to the communication device. |
| US08489723B2 |
Controlling access to managed objects in networked devices
Controlling access to managed objects associated with a networked device. A method comprises receiving a request from a principal for access to a managed object associated with the networked device. The managed objects are accessible based on membership in access groups that are compliant with a Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). A first and a second of the access groups associated with the principal are determined. Access privileges for the principal are determined, based on the first and the second access groups. Access to the managed object is granted if permitted based on the access privileges for the principal. |
| US08489721B1 |
Method and apparatus for providing high availabilty to service groups within a datacenter
A method and apparatus for providing high availability to service groups within a datacenter is described. In one embodiment, the method includes accessing policy master information regarding a plurality of nodes to identify at least one suitable node of the plurality of nodes for operating a service group, generating network topology information to identify at least one single point of failure amongst the plurality of nodes, processing high availability information regarding at least one computer resource at the at least one suitable node and determining availability indicia of the service group based upon the network topology information and the high availability information. |
| US08489720B1 |
Cost-aware, bandwidth management systems adaptive to network conditions
Methods, apparatuses, and systems directed to cost-aware bandwidth management schemes that are adaptive to monitored network or application performance attributes. In one embodiment, the present invention supports bandwidth management systems that adapt to network conditions, while managing tradeoffs between bandwidth costs and application performance. One implementation of the present invention tracks bandwidth usage over an applicable billing period and applies a statistical model to allow for bursting to address increased network loading conditions that degrade network or application performance. One implementation allows for bursting at selected time periods based on computations minimizing cost relative to an applicable billing model. One implementation of the present invention is also application-aware, monitoring network application performance and increasing bandwidth allocations in response to degradations in the performance of selected applications. |
| US08489719B2 |
Desktop delivery for a distributed enterprise
Techniques are provided for desktop delivery in a distributed enterprise. In one embodiment, a system comprises multiple computing devices that are communicatively connected to a data center. The data center comprises a separate virtual disk for each separate computing device. A virtual disk for a computing device comprises an image that includes: an Operating system (OS) for the computing device; one or more applications for a user of the computing device; a machine profile associated with the computing device; and user data and settings that are specific for the user of the computing device. The data center also comprises logic which is stored in a storage medium and which, when executed at the data center, is operable at least to: send the image to the computing device; receive, from the computing device, changes made by the user at the computing device to each of the OS, the one or more applications, and the user data; and update the image for the computing device by applying the changes to each of the OS, the one or more applications, and the user data. |
| US08489717B2 |
Accelerated cable modem restart service
A system for the accelerated re-provisioning of data over cable service interface specification (DOCSIS) configuration files between a DOCSIS provisioning server and a plurality of network nodes that are configured according to the DOCSIS configuration files is provided. The system includes: a memory; and a caching entity configured to monitor transmissions from the provisioning server of the configuration files to the network nodes so as to both store the configurations files in the memory and to pass-through the configuration files to the network nodes; the caching entity being further configured to monitor requests to the provisioning server for respective ones of the DOCSIS configuration files from the network nodes, the caching entity being further configured to determine for each of the requests whether the requested configuration file has been previously requested node such that if the caching entity determines that the requested configuration file has been previously requested the caching entity retrieves the previously requested configuration file from the memory and returns the retrieved-from-memory configuration file to the network node. |
| US08489714B2 |
Wait for ready state
Automation of actions on a server system (e.g., web server, FTP server) is facilitated by a server system that is ready for actions to be performed upon it. Because there are scenarios when a server system is not in a state to be acted upon (e.g., web page changed due to navigation, script execution, asynchronous request through dynamic web extensions), an automated action needs to be synchronized to when then server system is in a ready state for that action to occur. A wait-for-ready state can be initiated that detects when a server system is ready for a next action. |
| US08489712B2 |
Identification and/or addressing of a data terminal device of a local network
The invention relates to identifying and/or addressing a data terminal device (DEE1) of a local network (LNW, LAN, W-LAN, Ethernet, Powerline) such that address/identification information (AID-INF3) of the data terminal device of the local network is available to a user of the local network in a simple and comfortable manner, wherein the data terminal device registers with a terminal system (ESY) due to a triggering event (ALE), indicated for example, by the URL ‘www.mygigaset.com’ and present, for example, in a large area network (GNW, WAN, MAN, INTERNET), and transmits thereto address/identification information, for example modifiable information (AID-INF1), referencing the local network and the large area network. Said address/identification information is stored by the terminal system. Subsequently, in a further data terminal device (DEE2) of the local network, the URL ‘www.mygigaset.com’ is entered into the terminal system, a connection is established with the terminal system, and address/identification information, for example modifiable information (AID-INF2), referencing the large area network is transmitted. The terminal system compares the transmitted address/identification information (AID-INF1, AID-INF2) to each other, and transmits to the further data terminal device a part of the address/identification information (AID-INF1) referring back to the local network as the address/identification information (AID-INF3) of the data terminal device (DEE1), because both data terminal devices are present in the same local network, in order that said data terminal device can communicate directly with the data terminal device (DEE1). |
| US08489711B2 |
Service distribution method, device and system
A service distribution method includes the steps of: firstly generating, by a management system, a corresponding configuration file from service information of a user, and sending the configuration file to an Optical Network Termination (ONT) of the user through an Optical Line Terminal (OLT); and then performing, by the ONT, corresponding configuration in accordance with the configuration file. A service distribution system and a management system are provided. The invention is applied to enable service distribution with good extendibility. |
| US08489709B2 |
Method of managing a file access in a distributed file storage system
Embodiments of the invention provide methods and systems of managing a file access, in a distributed file system environment. In the provided methods and systems, each of the host computers is connected with one of the file servers as a target file server and issues the file access request to the target file server, for access to a target file stored in at least one of the file servers. The management computer collects load information from the file servers, analyzes it, by specifying location of the target file and the target file server, and based on the analysis, redistributes the target file among the file servers and reallocates connections between the host computers and the target file servers. |
| US08489706B2 |
Safe output protocol for files to multiple destinations with integrity check
Protocol is provided for safe transfer of files from between nodes of a communication system. The protocol includes a handshake operation between a source (local or initiating) node sending one or more files and a remote (responding) node receiving the files to ensure that control of the file remains with the source node a configurable amount of time until the file is successfully transferred. A file transfer manager controls the transfer process through a series of file moves that include moving the file into a directory associated with the file transfer manager, from which the file is sent and moving the file out of that directory after the remote node acknowledges a safe copy operation of the file. Files can be retrieved by the remote node after they have been transmitted, after which they will be deleted from the local node. |
| US08489702B2 |
Determining playability of media files with minimal downloading
A method is provided through which information about media files embedded in web pages is obtained from a server and analyzed to determine if the media files are playable on a device. This information may be external to the media file or may be a portion of the media file itself. The determination of whether a media file is playable by a device is made based on information obtained from the server without downloading the entirety of the media file. |
| US08489697B2 |
Brokerage server for supporting fast data access for user terminal, method of operating brokerage server, user terminal and method of operating user terminal
A service providing system using a brokerage server that supports fast data access according to a location of a user terminal when the user terminal uses a data center on the Internet is provided. The brokerage server receives an alarm message indicating that the user terminal has moved, from the user terminal, and generates a service quality alarm when the number of the received alarm messages exceeds a previously set number. The brokerage server determines a location of the user terminal as the service quality alarm is generated, and reallocates a data center capable of providing fast data access among a plurality of data centers according to the determined position. |
| US08489688B2 |
Managing delivery of electronic meeting content
A first portion of electronic meeting content is transmitted to a first client computing device. The first portion of the electronic meeting content configured to provide a first content resolution that is less than a full content resolution. A second portion of the electronic meeting content is transmitted to the first client computing device. The second portion of the electronic meeting content configured to provide a second content resolution that is greater than the first content resolution. The second portion of the electronic meeting content combined with the first portion of the electronic meeting content provides progressive refinement of electronic meeting content transmitted to the first client computing device. |
| US08489687B2 |
Rotating encryption in data forwarding storage
A method includes receiving a request from a source system to store data, directing the data to a computer memory, the computer memory employing an encryption scheme, and continuously forwarding the data from one computer memory to another computer memory in the network of interconnected computer system nodes without storing on any physical storage device in the network, each computer memory employing the encryption scheme. The continuously forwarding includes determining an address of a node available to receive the data based on one or more factors, sending a message to the source system with the address of a specific node for the requester to forward the data, detecting a presence of the data in memory of the specific node, and forwarding the data to another computer memory of a node in the network of interconnected computer system nodes without storing any physical storage device. |
| US08489686B2 |
Method and apparatus allowing scan of data storage device from remote server
A method and device allowing a scan of a data storage device from a remote server are disclosed. In some embodiments, a computing device may include an out-of-band (OOB) configured to compute a first hash value for data stored in one or more sectors of a data storage device at a first time; receive, using communication circuitry, a request to transmit a portion of the data stored in the one or more sectors of the data storage device at a second time, the second time being subsequent to the first time; compute a second hash value for the data stored in the one or more sectors of the data storage device at the second time; and transmit, using the communication circuitry, the requested portion of the data, only if the second hash value does not match the first hash value. |
| US08489685B2 |
Application acceleration as a service system and method
Disclosed are systems and methods to provide application acceleration as a service. In one embodiment, a system includes a head office to serve an enterprise application comprised of a collaborative document. The system also includes a branch office to request the collaborative document from the head office. The enterprise application may also include a computed document and/or a static document. In addition, the system also includes a set of Point of Presence (POP) locations between the head office and the branch office to communicate the collaborative document, the computed document and the static document on behalf of the head office from a closest POP location to the head office to a closest POP location to the branch office and then onward to the branch office. |
| US08489682B2 |
Supplementary services in communication networks
A method and application server for handling a supplementary services message in a communication network. A subscriber's Home Location Register (HLR) sends an Interrogation marker to the subscriber's Mobile-services Switching Center/Visitor Location Register (MSC/VLR) instructing the MSC/VLR to forward all supplementary services messages from the subscriber to the HLR. When the subscriber's user terminal sends a supplementary services message to the MSC/VLR requesting a supplementary service, the MSC/VLR forwards the message to the subscriber's HLR. The HLR retrieves an address of an IP Multimedia Application Server associated with the subscriber, and sends the supplementary services message to the addressed Application Server for handling the supplementary services request. |
| US08489678B2 |
Method and system for the protected storage of downloaded media content via a virtualized platform
A method and system for the protected storage of downloaded media content via a virtualized platform. A method comprises downloading content to a special purpose virtual machine and then storing the downloaded content at a location, where the location is only accessible via the special purpose virtual machine. The stored content is then streamed over a virtual network to a general purpose virtual machine, where the special purpose virtual machine and the general purpose virtual machine exist on the same personal computer (PC). |
| US08489677B2 |
Session pooling for legacy application tasks
Methods, systems, and techniques for handling session emulation for running legacy applications/tasks in host environments using session pools are provided. These enhanced session emulation techniques may be used for many applications, including modernizing legacy applications, particularly in mid-range or mainframe host computing. Example embodiments provide a Role-Based Modernization System (“RBMS”), which uses the enhanced emulation techniques to provide role-based modernization of menu-based legacy applications. |
| US08489676B1 |
Technique for implementing seamless shortcuts in sharepoint
A system and method for creating shortcuts within a database for archived items. A client computer sends a retrieval request for a given item to a web server. The given item may be an electronic document. A custom HTTPModule within the web server intercepts the request. The HTTPModule uses a uniform resource locator (URL) provided in the request to locate a record associated with the given item. If a given fixed string value is read from the record in place of the original content data, then the web server requests original content data for the given item from an archive store. The record still maintains identification information, such as a document identifier and the URL in order to maintain links and workflows. The retrieval request is not rerouted to an alternate path, and the client computer receives the original content data, rather than an indication of a shortcut. |
| US08489673B2 |
Content set based pre-positioning
Methods, apparatuses, and systems are provided for improving utilization of the communications system through various “deltacasting” techniques for handling content sets (e.g., feeds or websites). In some embodiments, within a client-server context, content sets are anticipatorily pre-positioned in client dictionaries using multicasting techniques to share forward link capacity. Pre-positioning determinations are made according to byte-level data, set-level metadata, and/or user preferences. In some embodiments, when locally stored information from the content sets is requested by a user, deltacasting techniques are used to generate fingerprints for use in identifying and exploiting multicasting and/or other opportunities for increased utilization of links of the communications system. |
| US08489665B2 |
Communication apparatus, method of checking received data size, multiple determining circuit, and multiple determination method
A dividing unit sets an actual packet length transferred from a packet receiving section to a variable U, and then sets 2α to a variable V. If a positive number determining section determines that a subtraction result of subtracting a remainder N0 from a quotient M0, both found by dividing U by V, is a positive number, the dividing unit overwrites the subtraction result to U. The dividing unit repeats such operations of dividing the subtraction result by V, until the positive number determining section determines that the subtraction result of subtracting the remainder from the quotient, both found by dividing U by V, is a non-positive number. When the subtraction result becomes a non-positive number and the quotient and the remainder match, a packet length determining section determines that received data has a normal size, and notifies it to a discard determining section. |
| US08489664B2 |
Single clock cycle first order limited accumulator for supplying weighted corrections
A method is provided for first order accumulation in a single clock cycle. The method accepts a limited gain value and an accumulated value stored in a previous clock cycle. Using combinational logic, the limited gain value is summed with the accumulated value. If the summed value is between upper and lower limits, a non-weighted correction signal is supplied, and the summed value is the storage value. If the summed value is greater than the upper limit, a positive weighting is supplied, the (upper limit+1) is subtracted from the summed value, and the result is the storage value. If the summed value is less than the lower limit, then a negative weighting is supplied, the lower limit is subtracted from the summed value, and the result is the storage value. The storage value is loaded in memory for use as the accumulated value in the subsequent clock cycle. |
| US08489658B2 |
Arrangement for a distributed file system having data objects mapped independent of any data object attribute
Each data file of a distributed file system is identified by a corresponding globally-unique object identifier that is independent of any attribute of the data file. A node in the distributed file system has a file system that includes a plurality of directory entries, where each directory entry has a file name field, an attributes field, and an object identifier field configured for specifying a globally-unique object identifier. The globally-unique object identifier is universally reachable by any node of the distributed file system and uniquely identifies the data file, enabling the data file to be universally identifiable by any node based on the corresponding object identifier. The data file can be stored independently of a device file system based on providing a resolution between the data file name and its object identifier, followed by a resolution between the object identifier and a selected location for the data file. |
| US08489655B2 |
Restoring data segments of rolled-back transactions in a clustered file system
Systems, Methods, and Computer Program Products are provided for restoring data segments in a clustered file system (CFS). Contents of the data segments, that were modified during a transaction, which is being rolled-back to the most recent contents of the data segments prior to the transaction commencing, are restored. Locations of the most recent contents of the data segments, which are restored, are identified. |
| US08489653B2 |
Incremental class unloading in a region-based garbage collector
A technique for incrementally unloading classes using a region-based garbage collector is described. One aspect of such a technique includes maintaining a remembered set for a class set. The remembered set indicates whether instances of the class set are contained in one or more regions in memory, and in which regions the instances are contained. Upon performing an incremental garbage collection process for a subset of the regions in memory, the technique examines the remembered set to determine whether the class set includes instances in regions outside of the subset. If the remembered set indicates that the class set includes instances outside of the subset of regions, the technique identifies the class set as “live.” This will preclude unloading the class set from the subset of regions. |
| US08489649B2 |
Extensible RDF databases
A method and apparatus for introducing domain-specific data types with associated semantics in an RDF database system using an extensibility framework mechanism. The extensibility framework mechanism allows users to map serialized instance data for a particular user-defined data type to properties of a base data structure associated with the domain-specific data and to map instance data in base data structures to the data's serialized form. The RDF database system may return inferred properties of RDF data stored in domain-specific data types in response to a query on the data. Further, the RDF database system may infer relationships between resources in stored data. |
| US08489647B2 |
Use-case based configuration of an object-relational mapping framework
Systems, methods, and computer program products are disclosed for configuring an object-relational mapping framework. The object-relational mapping framework may monitor, in the context of a use case of an application, fetching of data from a relational database and accessing of the fetched data by the application. The object-relational mapping framework may be configured based on the monitored activity. |
| US08489641B1 |
Displaying layers of search results on a map
In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, systems, and program products. Information that is responsive to each of multiple distinct search queries is received from a server system. The information for each of the search queries identifies a geographical context or includes search results. One or more visual indications of the information for each of the search queries are displayed on a geographical map. A user interface element for each of the search queries is displayed. The user interface element for each of the search queries, when selected by a user, causes removal from the display of the one or more visual indications of the information for the search query that corresponds to the selected user interface element. |
| US08489635B1 |
Method and system of identifying users based upon free text keystroke patterns
A method of identifying a user as an authorized user from free test text typed by that user into an input device. From the received test text, features associated with the typed text are extracted, such as timing data associated with alphanumeric letter pairs. These extracted features are compared to previously stored series of authorized user profiles, where the authorized user profiles were generated from a trial typing sample of alphanumeric data from each associated authorized user. The comparison identifies one of the authorized users with the user, and a score is derived to measure the strength of the comparison. If the score exceeds a threshold level, the user is identified as that authorized user. |
| US08489634B2 |
File access destination control device and method
Provided is a file access destination control device capable of storing only a file requiring confidentiality in a server and storing a file not requiring confidentiality in a client. A file access destination control device includes: means for setting an access destination with respect to a file accessed by a program whose name is listed in a white list to the client-side storage device; means for setting the access destination with respect to a file accessed by a program whose name is listed in a redirect list to the server-side storage device; means for prohibiting a program whose name is listed neither in the white list nor redirect list from performing writing operation to a file; and means for setting the readout destination with respect to a file accessed by a program whose name is listed neither in the white list nor redirect list to the client-side storage device. |
| US08489632B1 |
Predictive model training management
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on one or more computer storage devices, for receiving training data for predictive modeling and executing multiple processes simultaneously to generate multiple trained predictive models using the training data and training functions. After executing the processes for an initial runtime, a convergence status of each process is determined that indicates a likelihood that the training function being executed will converge on the training data. Based on the determination, training functions are identified that are not likely to converge and processes that are executing these training functions are terminated. After an ultimate runtime has expired, processes that are still executing training functions that have not yet converged are terminated. An effectiveness score is generated for each of the trained predictive models that were successfully generated and a trained predictive model is selected based on the effectiveness scores. |
| US08489630B2 |
Methods and software for analysis of research publications
In one aspect, the invention comprises a computer system for searching databases and displaying search results, comprising databases storing information regarding publications and authors comprising author, title, date of publication, cited references, and citing references data; and Internet servers in communication with those databases; wherein at least one of those Internet servers is in communication with and operable to transmit data to a Web browser resident on a user's computer, and wherein the data is sufficient to enable the browser to display a citation overview page comprising: (a) a list of one or more titles of publications or names of authors, and (b) one or more displayed numerals representing how many publications in one or more specified categories cite to each of the publications, or, for author names, how many publications in one or more specified categories cite to publications on which those names are listed as authors. |
| US08489629B2 |
Communication terminal device, computer program, and content search method
A communication terminal device includes: a communication unit configured to connect to a network to transmit and receive contents among a plurality of nodes; a memory configured to accumulate a history table that stores a search history of a content search; and a processor configured to execute a process comprising: storing the search history of the content search in the history table; comparing metadata attached to a search object content that is a content search object with metadata attached to a content stored in the history table; determining whether the content stored in the history table is similar to the search object content based on the comparing of the metadata; and making the transmission unit transmit information inquiring about possession of the search object content to a node that possesses a content determined to be similar to the search object content. |
| US08489626B2 |
Method and apparatus for recommending a short message recipient
A method and apparatus for recommending a short message recipient. The method includes parsing history short messages of a user to generate data associated with contacts, constructing a semantic association database by using the data, identifying a critical object in a new short message text of the user, analyzing an association between the critical object and the contacts by using the semantic association database, and recommending a short message recipient to the user according to a strength of association. |
| US08489625B2 |
Mobile query suggestions with time-location awareness
The techniques describe recommending mobile query suggestions by integrating time and location in response to a query input submitted on a mobile computing device. A process constructs a bipartite graph by extracting users that submitted queries from mobile search logs and associating time and location with the submitted queries. The process determines the users are similar having submitted similar queries at similar times and at similar locations. The process receives a query input associated with a current time and a current location of a mobile computing device. Next, the process computes a relatedness of candidate queries to the query input based on a similarity between the user groups having submitted both the candidate queries and the query input, and distances of times and locations at which the user previously issued the query input and the candidate queries. |
| US08489624B2 |
Processing techniques for text capture from a rendered document
A facility for initiating a purchase is described. The facility receives a text sequence captured by a user from a rendered document using a handheld text capture device. The facility identifies in the received text sequence a reference to a distinguished product. In response to identifying the reference, the facility presents to the user an opportunity to place an order for the established product. If the user accepts the presented opportunity to order the distinct product, the facility orders the distinct product on behalf of the user. |
| US08489622B2 |
Computer-implemented systems and methods for providing paginated search results from a database
Computer-implemented systems and methods provide paginated search results from a multi-table database that stores hierarchically arranged data nodes. A query request is received that identifies one or more constraints and one or more monitoring attributes. Records of the multi-table database are filtered to create a view containing only records which meet the constraints. Monitoring attributes associated with a first n records of the view are accessed to generate an output view, where n is the number of records that may be displayed on a single page, and the output view is displayed on a user-viewable medium. |
| US08489620B2 |
Analysis preprocessing system, analysis preprocessing method and analysis preprocessing program
An analysis preprocessing system is provided which is capable of, when large amounts of data are received from a large number of data generation sources, rapidly passing those data to means for analyzing the data in order of time of generation thereof. Data acquisition means 71 acquires a data group generated by a plurality of data generation sources. Data clipping means 72 clips each data from the data group. Rearrangement control means 73 retains each clipped data therein, selects data generated prior to the corresponding data when data from a delay maximum data generation source is detected, and rearranges the selected data in order of time of generation thereof. A data storage buffer 74 stores the data rearranged in order of time of generation thereof. Analysis data determination means determines an analysis data group which is a set of data used for analysis, from the data stored in the data storage buffer 74. |
| US08489619B1 |
System and method for the dynamic generation of correlation scores between arbitrary objects
Systems and methods are described for performing the dynamic generation of correlation scores between arbitrary objects. When a behavioral event is recorded, that is to say when an end user interacts with multiple objects, relationships between objects are created. These relationships are maintained as a list. When a request for correlated items is requested based upon a seed object, a list of correlated items is dynamically created through the generation of a pivot set and a scoring algorithm to compute the list of correlated items. |
| US08489618B2 |
Statistical record linkage calibration for geographic proximity matching
Disclosed is a system for, and method of, calculating parameters used to determine whether records and entity representations should be linked. The system and method use a symmetric and reflexive function to allow for linking records and entity representations whose field values differ. The system and method apply iterative techniques such that parameters from each linking iteration are used in the next linking iteration. The system and method need no human interaction in order to calibrate and utilize record matching formulas used for the linking decisions. These techniques may be used for geographic location proximity matching. |
| US08489610B2 |
Method, system and program for information re-organization
An information re-organization system includes a plurality of counters coordinated to meaning attributes, and a re-organization incentive notification unit that updates, in case the information stored in preset storage unit has been updated, value of a counter out of the multiple counters that has the meaning attribute associated with contents updated. The information re-organization system also includes an information re-organization processor that executes, in case the value of the counter section updated has met one of a number of predetermined conditions for information re-organization, a processing for information re-organization corresponding to the condition for information re-organization on the information stored in the preset storage unit. |
| US08489608B2 |
Method for defining data categories
A method for the definition of data categories is described. The method uses logic templates and may be used in database processing. One embodiment of the method comprises: selecting a plurality of attributes from a group of attributes, each attribute describing a possible data item in a set of data; selecting a logic template from a group of logic templates, each logic template comprising a predetermined logic expression containing one or more variables; and assigning one or more selected attributes to each variable within the selected the logic template to produce a logic expression defining the data category. A computer program product and a user interface for achieving this method are also described. |
| US08489606B2 |
Music search apparatus and method using emotion model
A music search apparatus using an emotion model includes a music database (DB) for storing sound source data about a plurality of pieces of music and Arousal-Valence (AV) coefficients of the respective pieces of music. An emotion model generation unit classifies different emotion types into a plurality of groups, and generates an emotion classification model from using respective probability distributions of the plurality of groups for an AV coefficient plane. A music search unit identifies an emotion type from using information entered by a user when a music search request is received, detects an AV coefficient range for designating an AV coefficient corresponding to the identified emotion type from using the emotion classification model, and searches the music DB for music corresponding to the AV coefficient range. |
| US08489605B2 |
Document object model (DOM) based page uniqueness detection
DOM based unique ID generation, including receiving a hypertext markup language (HTML) page at a computer, and identifying HTML page elements in response to the receiving, the HTML page elements comprising parent nodes, the parent nodes comprising child nodes. The method further comprising processing each of the HTML page elements, the processing comprising: grouping the child nodes by parent node into a group of child nodes, detecting patterns in the group of child nodes in response to the grouping, reducing the group of child nodes to text strings in response to the detecting, storing the text strings as text values in the parent nodes, and generating a unique identifier (ID) of the HTML page in response to the processing. |
| US08489601B2 |
Knowledge extraction methodology for unstructured data using ontology-based text mining
A method for extracting data from service repair verbatims in a vehicle service reporting system. Each service repair verbatim includes a technician's comments concerning a part, a symptom associated with the part, and a repair action associated with the symptom. Each service repair verbatim includes information relating to an identified problem with at least one vehicle part. A diagnostic and prognostic ontology database is provided that is structured by vehicle part classification, a vehicle part sub-class classification, and a relationship classification, wherein the relationship classification includes symptom relationships and action relationships. Each of the service repair verbatims are reconstructed utilizing the diagnostic and prognostic ontology database. Combinations of information are extracted from the reconstructed service repair verbatims as a function of user input criteria. A frequency is determined of each combination extracted in the reconstructed service repair verbatims. The service repair verbatims are clustered for each combination. |
| US08489600B2 |
Method and apparatus for segmenting and summarizing media content
An approach is provided for increasing content relevancy to user search queries by segmenting and summarizing media content. A probabilistic tag application segments a first media content item into at least a first segment and a second segment, associates a first keyword with the first segment, and assigns to the first keyword a first probability value indicating relevance of the first keyword to the first segment. Thereafter, the probabilistic tag application includes the first segment in a search result, in response to a search query including the first keyword. |
| US08489599B2 |
Context and activity-driven content delivery and interaction
One embodiment of the present invention provides a computing device that delivers personally-defined context-based content to a user. This computing device receives a set of contextual information with respect to the user, and processes the contextual information to determine a context which is associated with an activity being performed by the user. The computing device then determines whether either or both the context and a current activity of the user satisfy a trigger condition which has been previously defined by the user. If so, the computing device selects content from a content database, based on the context, to present to the user, and presents the selected content. |
| US08489598B2 |
Methods and devices employing content identifiers
Content identifiers are associated with respective metadata. Through use of the metadata, a user's experience with the content can be enhanced. A variety of other arrangements are also detailed. |
| US08489597B2 |
Encoding semi-structured data for efficient search and browsing
A method for encoding XML tree data that includes the step of encoding the semi-structured data into strings of arbitrary length in a way that maintains non-structural and structural information about the XML data, and enables indexing the encoded XML data in a way that facilitates efficient search and browsing. |
| US08489594B2 |
Playlist override queue
In one embodiment, a method for determining files to play is provided. The method includes determining an override file. For example, files may be designated and put into an override queue. A point in the playlist of files currently being played on a device is determined. This is a point in which the override file should be played. The playing of the playlist of files is then interrupted at the determined point and the override file is played. After the override file is played, the playing of the playlist of files is automatically resumed. The play may be resumed substantially at a point where playing of the playlist would have continued had it not been stopped. Accordingly, a playlist may be overridden without completely exiting out of the playlist or changing the playlist. |
| US08489592B2 |
Electronic device and method for searching related terms
The present disclosure provides a method for searching related terms using an electronic device. The method adds time stamps to one or more electronic documents, and obtains related terms by calculating a relevance score between every two terms of the electronic documents within a specified time range. The method further calculates a time gap between each related term and a preset query term, obtains updated related terms that have a time relationship with the preset query term by removing specified related terms whose time gap is greater than a preset value, and obtains search results from a data source by performing a search operation according to the updated related terms. |
| US08489584B1 |
Facilitating media content search
A method of facilitating media content search is disclosed. A rating data associated with the media content is found, at least in part programmatically, in a location other than a display page that includes a media content or a link to the media content. A search result ranking for one or both of the media content and the display page is determined at least in part using the rating data. |
| US08489578B2 |
System and method for administering data ingesters using taxonomy based filtering rules
A method, system, and article are provided for management of a data ingester and associated content collected by the data ingester. The computer system is configured with a taxonomy together with rules and policies for ingesting and classifying the collected data. Based upon the classification of the collected data with respect to the taxonomy, the data is assigned to a location in the taxonomy. |
| US08489570B2 |
System and method for employing social networks for information discovery
Systems and methods are provided that enable searches of social networks by acting as a “compass” that assists users in navigating the social network. Individual user participation is not required in response to queries from other users. The systems and methods offer navigational assistance or information as opposed to a traditional search which returns requested information, thus currently acceptable social mechanisms for arbitrating trust can be exploited. As a result, users do not make their personal information publicly searchable, while at the same time, they are protected from potential misrepresentations of facts. |
| US08489568B2 |
Data acquisition apparatus and data acquisition method
A data acquisition apparatus includes an input unit configured to input acquisition data specification information, secret data specification information, and output format specification information, an acquisition unit configured to acquire data specified by the acquisition data specification information from a database, an output unit configured to output the acquired data in a format specified by the output format specification information, and a control unit configured to control at least one of the acquisition unit and the output unit so that data specified by the secret data specification information which is independent of the output format specification information is not output. |
| US08489567B2 |
Persistent data storage techniques
A database is maintained that stores data persistently. Tasks are accepted from task sources. At least some of the tasks have competing requirements for use of regions of the database. Each of the regions includes data that is all either locked or not locked for writing at a given time. Each of the regions is associated with an available processor. For each of the tasks, jobs are defined each of which requires write access to regions that are to be accessed by no more than one of the processors. Jobs are distributed for concurrent execution by the associated processors. |
| US08489566B2 |
Optimistic locking in online and offline environments
Systems and methods to implement optimistic locking in online and offline environments are provided. A particular method includes receiving from an application an application data request related to retrieving a data item from a data store. The method also includes sending an optimistic locking information request to the data store to retrieve optimistic locking information, such as an identifier, associated with the data item. Additionally, the method includes receiving a data item update statement from the application while a connection between the application and a database server coupled to the data store persists or after a connection between the application and the database server has terminated and reconnected. The data item update statement relates to storing an updated version of the data item at the data store. Further, the method includes synchronizing the data item with the updated version of the data item based on the optimistic locking information. |
| US08489565B2 |
Dynamic integrated database index management
Integral index management for a relational database is provided. Possible index management actions are identified to an administrator, and index management metric thresholds are provided by the administrator. An index metrics collection module automatically collects metric values. An index metrics analysis module automatically determines whether collected metric values satisfy specified thresholds. An index management action implementation module then implements index management actions, such as reorganizing or rebuilding indexes, adding indexes, and removing indexes. Threads may work in parallel on multiple tables of the relational database. Proposed actions may be subject to final authorization or may be implemented automatically after the metric threshold values are satisfied. |
| US08489563B2 |
Meta-configuration of profiles
Disclosed are methods for creating, applying, using and retrieving profile information that includes attributes that may be stored separately from, or with, the content to which the profiles are being applied. In this manner, profiles can be shared in various environments and across various applications. Attributes that have corresponding attributes in other content can be applied to the other content, as long as each of the attributes is valid. In computer aided design applications, the profile can be stored in a profile repository embedded within the CAD model. In addition, profile controllers are disclosed which control the attributes of a profile that can be used with selected content and other content and send a notification that a profile is available for use by other content. |
| US08489557B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for archiving data
A method, server and mobile electronic device for archiving data are provided. The server determines that an amount of the data managed by the server meets a threshold condition and in response transmits a message to the mobile electronic device associated with the data, the message indicative that the threshold condition has been met. The mobile electronic device responds to the message with a response indicative that the data is to be archived. The response triggers the server to cause at least a portion of the data to be archived, thereby increasing memory available for storing further data. |
| US08489555B2 |
Method of managing storage and retrieval of data objects
A technique for managing storage of a data object in a storage device involves receiving the data object (A) to store in the storage device, where the data object has an indicator bit pattern (P). Successive compression data transformations are applied to data object A to obtain respective corresponding compressed data objects, and one of these compressed data objects is selected, such that the selected compressed data object (C) has the shortest length with respect to the remaining compressed data objects. Compression information (I) is then associated with the compression data transformation used to generate data object C, and a threshold value T is calculated at least partly from the length of compression information I. If length (C)+T.gtoreq.length (A), then the indicator bit pattern of data object A is reset and the data object A is written to the storage device. If length (C)+T |
| US08489552B1 |
Generic granular restore of application data from a volume image backup
A system and method for generically performing a granular restore operation from a volume image backup. A volume image backup may be booted into a virtual environment. Input may be received selecting one or more application objects of an application on the volume image backup for restore. The selected application object(s) may be retrieved from the volume image backup by a first backup system agent on the volume image backup. The selected application object(s) may be sent from the first backup system agent to a second backup system agent on a restore target. The selected application object(s) may be restored on the restore target by the second backup system agent. |
| US08489550B2 |
Multi-tenancy data storage and access method and apparatus
A method, apparatus, and a computer program product for storing and accessing multi-tenancy data. The method includes the steps of: creating a plurality of table sets in one or more databases, wherein each table set is used to store data of a group of tenants selected from a plurality of tenants; accessing data of a tenant in a table set in response to receiving a data access request from the tenant; and recording relationships between the tenants and the table sets in a multi-tenancy metadata repository, wherein the step of accessing the data of the tenant comprises the steps of finding the table set by querying the metadata repository and accessing the data of the tenant in the table set based on the result received from the query of the metadata repository. |
| US08489548B2 |
Method, system, and device for data synchronization
A method for data synchronization (DS) is provided, which includes comparing data fingerprints in databases of two parties in need of DS, determining data that needs to be synchronized, and DS is then performed on the data that needs to be synchronized. A system and two devices for DS are further provided. Therefore, DS is implemented through data fingerprints in the technical solutions, thus avoiding transmitting a mass of data between the two parties in need of DS. |
| US08489545B2 |
System and method for creating and maintaining pre-task planning documents
An automated pre task planning document library system for creating, maintaining, processing, storing, and delivering arranged pre task planning documents suitable for identifying assignments that may mitigate harm from identified hazards associated with task elements that may be performed in the completion of a task. |
| US08489540B2 |
Management of storage and retrieval of data labels in random access memory
According to an example embodiment, a technique may be provided for managing a label data base of which each entry comprises a data field for insertion into a respective packet in a multicast transmission and a validity field. The technique may include, for example, (a) establishing a fixed size for a cluster of labels, (b) associating with each cluster a pointer to another cluster, (c) establishing a sentinel cluster of which all entries are indicated to be invalid and of which the cluster pointer points to this sentinel cluster, (d) establishing a root table which defines the number of replications of the packet in a multicast group and identifies a first label cluster associated with the multicast group and (e) establishing a chain of clusters of which each cluster which is full of valid entries points to the next cluster in the chain and the last cluster which contains valid entries points to the sentinel cluster. |
| US08489539B2 |
Computer-aided diagnostic systems and methods for determining skin compositions based on traditional chinese medicinal (TCM) principles
Computer-aided systems and methods are provided for determining the skin composition of a specific user according to Traditional Chinese Medicinal (TCM) principles by statistically analyzing biological and/or psychological information collected from such user, such as age, gender, bodily sensation, skin condition and complexion, sleep pattern, dietary habits, energy level, stress level, physical fitness and emotional wellness, so as to classify the skin composition of the user according to TCM principles but without employing a TCM practitioner. Preferably, the skin composition classification is indicative of Yin-Yang balance of the skin of the user or the lack thereof. The present systems and methods may further recommend to the user one or more topical skin care regimens and/or ingestible skin benefit products suitable for the skin composition of the specific user. |
| US08489538B1 |
Systems and methods for predictive coding
Systems and methods for analyzing documents are provided herein. A plurality of documents and user input are received via a computing device. The user input includes hard coding of a subset of the plurality of documents, based on an identified subject or category. Instructions stored in memory are executed by a processor to generate an initial control set, analyze the initial control set to determine at least one seed set parameter, automatically code a first portion of the plurality of documents based on the initial control set and the seed set parameter associated with the identified subject or category, analyze the first portion of the plurality of documents by applying an adaptive identification cycle, and retrieve a second portion of the plurality of documents based on a result of the application of the adaptive identification cycle test on the first portion of the plurality of documents. |
| US08489537B2 |
Segmenting sequential data with a finite state machine
Described is a technology in which a finite state machine-based method segments original sequential data into high level units. Segments with similar sub-sequences are treated as the same unit. In general, the finite state machine indentifies sub-sequences in the sequential data that have similar tree-like microstructures. One described finite state machine operates by entering a path state when an input is a path command corresponding to a non-leaf node; the state machine remains in the path state until another command comprises an action command corresponding to a leaf node, whereby it outputs an action unit, or until the other command comprises a path command that is not the parent or the sibling of a next command, whereby a browsing unit is output. Also described is aggregating sub-sequences of a same unit to produce an access structure corresponding to the unit. |
| US08489536B1 |
Prescriptions for nonsupported features of an electronic document
In some embodiments, a method includes receiving an electronic document that comprising a list of one or more features specified for use during processing of the electronic document by an application. The method also includes determining if one or more specified features from the list of specified features is not supported by the application. The method includes executing an operation that is defined by a prescription associated with one or more specified features, in response to a determination that the one or more specified features is not supported by the application, wherein the prescription defines at least one of an operation to be performed or a restriction to be applied by the application as part of subsequent processing of the electronic document. |
| US08489535B2 |
Library synchronization between definitions and instances
In an industrial control configuration, various instances can exist that are based upon a definition. A definition can be changed and thus it can be appropriate to alter related instances in accordance with the change. However, changing an instance can cause disruption in other actions even when the change is minor. Therefore, various standards can be used to determine if a change to an instance should be propagated automatically or at another time, such as after an operation. The determination can be based on artificial intelligence techniques, user preference, a defined rule set, user instruction, as well as other standards. |
| US08489526B2 |
Controlling quarantining and biasing in cataclysms for optimization simulations
Some embodiments are directed to generating a first probability value that represents a percentage of times that first bit values for a given bit position of a first plurality of candidate solutions equate to a pre-defined number, where the first plurality of candidate solutions has converged on a sub-optimal solution during a simulation of an optimization problem using an optimization algorithm. Some embodiments are further directed to generating a second probability value that is inversely biased from the first probability value; and generating a second plurality of candidate solutions with the second probability value, where the second plurality of candidate solutions are inversely biased from the first bit values for the given bit position. |
| US08489520B2 |
Flexible mail delivery system and method
The principles of the present invention provide the ability to flexibly change the delivery point and time for a mail item, while the item is en route. The recipient, sender, or mailer may flexibly change the delivery point of the item alone or in combination with each other. While an item is en route between the sending point and the delivery point, a notification is sent to indicate that the item is in transit. In response, the delivery of the item may be changed. For example, the destination specified by the sender (e.g., the delivery address written on the item) may be changed or a delivery time may be specified. The item is then delivered to the new delivery point and/or at the specified delivery time. |
| US08489519B2 |
Apparatus, systems and methods for online, multi-parcel, multi-carrier, multi-service enterprise parcel shipping management
The present invention provides a plurality of Enterprises with a single online user interface with which the Enterprise can provide Enterprise Shippers, shipping origination users and shipping intermediary users with an automated parcel management system for a plurality of supported Carriers for a plurality of services. The present invention provides for the hierarchical definition of users, including the establishment of at least one user for each Enterprise as a Super-Administrator with the highest level of privileges and authority for the Enterprise, and the identification of other users as Sub-Administrators, Desktop Users and Shipping Station Users. The present invention also provides for the hierarchical definition of organizational units within each Enterprise, including the definition of sites, groups within a site, and users within a group and for a distinct definition of policies, privileges, and other types of specifications for each user level, each user, and each organizational unit. |
| US08489518B2 |
System and method for authorization and disclosure for background information searches
A system and automated method for verification of employment history regarding a job applicant, the method including receiving information identifying an applicant, receiving employment history information for the job applicant, receiving information identifying an identified verification contact for verification of the employment history information, automatically providing the identified verification contact with a question pertaining to employment history information, receiving an answer from the identified verification contact, storing the answer. |
| US08489516B1 |
Methods and systems for controlling access to relationship information in a social network
Systems and methods for controlling access to relationship information in a social network are described. One described method comprises receiving a request from an observer for relationship information indicating at least a first relationship between a target in a social network and a second entity in the social network, identifying at least a first privacy rule for the first relationship, and outputting at least part of the relationship information to the observer if the first privacy rule is satisfied. |
| US08489515B2 |
Social network based recommendation method and system
Recommendations for content may be generated based on social networking communities. For example, a user may receive a list of recommended content items based on content that has been viewed by others in the user's social networks. Recommendations may further be based on content information such as reviews, ratings, tags, attributes and the like from various sources internal and external to the user's social networks. Content items may be given a weight that corresponds to a determined level of relevance or interest to a user. Using the weight, a list of recommended items may be sorted or filtered. In one or more configurations, the weight may be modified based on an age of the content item. For example, the relevance, importance or interest of a news report may decline as the news becomes older and older. |
| US08489513B2 |
Methods and apparatus for conducting electronic transactions
A system and method for facilitating electronic transactions using an intelligent instrument is disclosed. An authorization server enables users to obtain authorization credentials through the use of the intelligent instrument by issuing a challenge to an intelligent token of the intelligent instrument. The intelligent token generates a challenge response and transmits the challenge response to the authorization server, which assembles credentials including a key for the electronic transaction upon validating the response. The authorization server sends the assembled credentials to the intelligent instrument and the intelligent instrument transmits the assembled credentials to the authorization server during a subsequent transaction. The authorization server validates the assembled credentials and provides authorization for the transaction in response to the validating the assembled credentials. |
| US08489505B2 |
Method and system to accept and settle transaction payments for an unbanked consumer
A system and method is provided to accept and settle transaction payments for a consumer. The consumer initiates a transaction with a merchant, and the merchant transmits transaction information to a central processing unit using an initiating processing unit. The central processing unit generates a unique transaction identifier. The system may provide the merchant and consumer the nearest payment processing unit. At the payment processing unit, the consumer presents the unique transaction identifier, which is transmitted to the central processing unit for validation. The consumer makes payment at the payment processing unit, and the payment information is transmitted to the central processing unit. The system remits the payment to the merchant. |
| US08489504B1 |
Transferring money using a mobile electronic device
A check service provider enables users to make and receive payments from a financial account via a mobile electronic device, such as a smartphone or tablet computer. The device includes a check module and a camera. A user can capture an image of a check using the camera and the check module deciphers information, such as an account number, bank routing number, and information regarding the account holder, from the image of the check. The user can then make payments from and receive payments into the financial account associated with the imaged check via the check module without having the physically write or deposit a check. The check service provider interacts with the ACH to settle payments directly between the user's accounts without handling the money. Users can be notified of pending payments via text, voice, and e-mail messaging. |
| US08489503B2 |
Systems, methods and computer program products for offering consumer loans having customized terms for each customer
Systems, methods and computer program products take into account the amount, term, and type of consumer loan, as well as data relating to a customer's credit score, debt burden, and collateral, if any. The invention then calculates an expected probability of default for a loan to that customer, and calculate loan terms that will deliver a minimum return on equity (e.g., 18%) given the lender's capital structure and funding rates. These loan terms are then offered to the customer. The customized loan terms include annual percentage rate of the loan, or a yearly fee or loan amount. |
| US08489501B2 |
Method of and system for evaluating financial risk associated with a construction project
A system and method for evaluating risks associated with a project based on project data from several projects. A project management server manages multiple, unrelated projects for a plurality of participants. The system manages each project by receiving and processing data associated with each project. Risks for a project are evaluated by aggregating project data from multiple projects. Risk assessment data for a particular project, based on the aggregated project data, is displayed to a participant of the project while access to the project data is limited to only projects with which the participant is associated. |
| US08489500B2 |
Method and system for compliance hosting
A method and system is provided for monitoring mortgagee regulatory compliance using a centralized repository. A centralized repository hosts loan origination software (LOS). The centralized repository can be accessible to a compliance monitor and a mortgagee. The mortgagee records borrower loan information into the centralized repository using the LOS. The compliance monitor retrieves borrower loan information using the LOS. The compliance monitor audits borrower loan information for regulatory compliance. The compliance monitor reports audit results to the mortgagee. |
| US08489498B1 |
System and method for processing a loan
A computer-implemented mortgage loan application data processing system comprises a workflow engine and workflow analysis logic. The workflow engine has stored therein a list representing tasks that need to be performed in connection with a mortgage loan application associated with a lender. The workflow engine is configured to prompt users to perform the tasks and to track performance of the tasks. The workflow analysis logic includes fallout prediction logic configured to receive status information from the workflow engine concerning status of the tasks that need to be performed in connection with the mortgage loan application. The workflow analysis logic is configured to predict a probability of fallout for the mortgage loan application based on the status information. |
| US08489497B1 |
Online interactive and partner-enhanced credit card
An on-line interactive and partner-enhanced credit card application system is disclosed. The system utilizes partner-supplied data of an applicant in credit decision. The system structures an on-line credit card application interactively with a tree-type series of questions and answers such that the next set of questions are based on the answers given. The system offers an appropriate bounty to a partner by the credit card issuer based on the data supplied by the partner and obtained during the interactive questions and answers. The system enables a credit card issuer to make an optimum product offer such as pricing and credit line assignment. The system offers commercial incentives, and utilizes the partner-supplied data during a statement process to generate further revenue and ensure cardholder retention. |
| US08489489B2 |
System and method for trading derivatives in penny increments while disseminating quotes for derivatives in nickel/dime increments
A system and method for trading derivatives in penny increments while disseminating quotes for derivatives in nickel/dime increments is disclosed. A trading engine receives quotes for a derivative in penny increments from at least one entity. The trading engine rounds out the quotes for the derivative in penny increments to quotes for the derivative in nickel/dime increments. The quotes in nickel/dime increments are aggregated and disseminated. The trading engine receives bids and offers to take positions in the derivative based on the aggregate quotes for the derivative in nickel/dime increments and executes trades for the derivative by matching bids and offers to buy and sell positions in the derivative. |
| US08489487B1 |
Apparatus, article, and method for contract values
A method, machine, article for contract values. The method can include: storing in memory terms of an agreement governing a stable value contract whereby a stable value return is to be determined by using a built-up moving average of the yield-to-worst outcome of an investment portfolio; calculating, by a digital computer accessing the memory and receiving market data, an amount of the built-up moving average; determining, by the computer using the amount, at least one of a stable value return on the investment portfolio and a contract value for the investment portfolio; and outputting, by the computer, at least one of the determined stable value return and the determined contract value. |
| US08489481B2 |
Transaction processing and remote activation
An apparatus comprising equipment provides a principal functionality other than two-way communication. A computing device in the apparatus controls the equipment. The apparatus operates in a plurality of modes including an operational mode and a paid off mode. When the apparatus is in the operational mode, the computing device communicates with a remote computer and in response, receives an instruction that is based on a state of a financial account. Based on the received instruction, the computing device controls whether the equipment provides the principal functionality. When the apparatus is in the paid off mode, the equipment provides the principal functionality without being controlled by the computing device based on the state of the financial account. The apparatus transitions from the operational mode to the paid off mode based on a wireless communication from the remote computer resulting from an amount owed in the financial account being paid off. |
| US08489476B1 |
Data manager for suspicious activity monitor
Systems and methods are disclosed for managing transaction data from a plurality of financial services for a suspicious activity monitor (SAM). In one implementation, transaction data from each financial service is conformed to a standard format for publication. The publication may occur either substantially in real time as each transaction is conducted, at predefined intervals, or in periodic batches. A SAM data manager may then retrieve and process the transaction messages, including filtering non-required transactions, removing levels of hierarchy from the data, arranging the data in a predefined document structure, adding tags that may be required by the SAM tool, and creating SAM messages. The SAM data manager may thereafter forward the SAM messages to the SAM tool for analysis. In some embodiments, the SAM data manager may also send any updates of member and account data contained in the transaction messages to a central repository for such data. |
| US08489475B1 |
Method for structuring a debt issue utilizing a closed block business entity
A method for structuring a debt that comprises: establishing a holding company as an owner of a closed block business entity, wherein the holding company is a subsidiary of a parent company and further wherein an on-going business is a subsidiary of the parent company; issuing debt from the holding company, wherein: (a) the debt is issued for raising capital for the parent company and the capital is provided to the on-going business; and (b) the debt is serviceable from the cash flow of the closed block business entity and the debt has a limited recourse only from the closed block business entity. |
| US08489470B2 |
Inventory location common object
Stored inventory location information in a first format for use by a first computerized system is transformed to readily make the stored inventory location information available for use in a second computerized system that utilizes a second format in a cost-efficient and time-efficient manner. |
| US08489469B1 |
Method and structure for simplified coding of display pages for operating a closed circuit E-commerce
Method and structure for a simplified coding of templated display pages for use in close circuit e-shopping for product and services via shopping terminals comprising video interphone monitors, dedicated terminals, television, cable television, shopping box, set top box and other well known boxes, each include a CPU, a memory and a display monitor operated via touch screen, remote control or hand movement, the templated screen uses assigned blocks and icons codes to select display pages, covering products and services. The shopping terminal connected via internal communication lines and interface propagates the simplified code, enabling loading and updating of products and services communicated via a building server for updating at all time data stored in the memory as per the dweller choice, enabling a dweller to shop from his private shop inside his residence, and be provided with programmed services, delivery and payments, supervised by the close circuit shopping entity center. |
| US08489459B2 |
Demographic based content delivery
Disclosed herein are demographic based content delivery systems and associated methods that automatically and non-invasively detect information regarding one or more persons within a designated viewing area. In embodiments of the systems and methods, two different automatic viewer identification and demographic classification technologies may be utilized, either alone or on combination. The technologies include image recognition technologies that utilize computer driven image and pattern recognition analysis algorithms and radio frequency identification tagging and reading technologies. Data collected from either one of or both of the two technologies is used to feed a demographic classification algorithm which then delivers different multimedia content based upon the determination of the algorithm. The embodiments of the invention may therefore be advantageously utilized to market in real time to consumers at the point of sale. |
| US08489456B2 |
Consumer offer redemption methods and systems
A computer-implemented offer redemption method includes the steps of: (a) storing information on a consumer and a payment account associated with the consumer in a computer storage system; (b) receiving activation of an offer from the consumer covering a product or service or a purchase from a retailer; (c) linking the offer to the consumer's payment account; (d) monitoring transactions in the consumer's payment account; and (e) when the consumer has purchased the product or service or made a purchase from the retailer covered by the linked offer using the consumer payment account, making payment for offer settlement to a payment processor managing the consumer's payment account to be credited to the consumer's payment account. |
| US08489454B1 |
System, method, and computer program product for sending information in response to receipt of an alphanumeric code presented with an advertisement
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for sending information in response to a receipt of an alphanumeric code presented with an advertisement. In operation, an advertisement is presented with at least one alphanumeric code in an offline media. Additionally, the alphanumeric code is received by an advertiser from a device of a user. Further, additional information is sent in response to the receipt of the alphanumeric code. |
| US08489453B2 |
Digital media acquisition using credit
Improved techniques and systems to facilitate use of credit to acquire digital media assets from a network-based media server are disclosed. A user can acquire credit in a variety of different ways including, for example, through redeeming a credit invitation. Once a user has available credit by whatever means, the user can acquire one or more digital media assets from the network-based media server using his/her available credit. In one embodiment, the credit is provided as item credits, whereby each item credit can be used to acquire a selected digital media asset. However, not all of the digital media assets available from the network-based media server are permitted to be acquired using item credits. The country of origin of the user and/or the type of media asset can influence the digital media assets that can be acquired using item credits. |
| US08489445B1 |
Determining and displaying item preferences associated with geographic areas
This disclosure relates to determining and displaying item preferences associated with geographic areas. Each of a plurality of item selections is associated with a respective geographic location. Item selections associated with a geographic area are identified. A preference for an item from among a group of items is determined based on the identified ones of the item selections. The preference is sent to a client for rendering. |