| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09045016B2 |
Hydraulic suspension system for work vehicle
The hydraulic suspension system comprises a suspension mechanism (100) for a traveling vehicle body, a suspension reference position variation mechanism (18) for varying a reference position of a suspension stroke of the suspension mechanism, and a stopped state detector (58) for detecting a state in which operation of the suspension mechanism (100) has stopped. The control management unit (60) controls the suspension reference position variation mechanism (18) so that when operation of the suspension mechanism (100) is detected by the stopped state detector (58) to be in a stopped state, the operation of the suspension mechanism (100) moves toward a target range, in preference to control based on a suspension stroke position obtained from a suspension stroke position sensor (37). |
| US09045013B2 |
Ice adaptive tire system
An adaptive tire system can include retractable and extendable bolts for enhancing traction, for example, on ice-covered roadways. The system can include pneumatically operated bolt assemblies mounted inside a tire having custom reinforced belts. The bolt assemblies can include locking devices configured to be biased towards a locked position so as to lock deployable bolts into extended and/or retracted positions without the need for persistently or continuously applied actuation force or energy. The system can include wheel-mounted, manually operated controls or remote and/or automated controls. The system can include rotary unions for transmitting actuation controls from a vehicle body into an associated wheel. The bolts can also be adjustable and can include removable and replaceable tips serviced from tire exterior while inflated, deflated, on wheel or off wheel. |
| US09045012B2 |
Tire air pressure optimization system for improving tread wear
A system is provided for automatically adjusting the air pressure of a tire based on variations in loading to improve tread wear. For a particular loading of the tire, the system provides for the determination of a preferred air pressure setting designed to minimize tread wear. This preferred air pressure, Pp, is determined from an analysis of the longitudinal stresses that occur within the contact patch of the tread. |
| US09045008B2 |
Tire
Circumferential recesses have: first blocks protruding outward in the tire tread width direction, the first blocks having radial outer end sections and radial inner front end sections; and second blocks protruding outward in the tire tread width direction, the second blocks having radial inner end sections and radial outer front end sections. The radial inner front end sections of the first blocks and the radial outer front end sections of the second blocks are separated from each other in the tire circumferential direction or in the tire radial direction. |
| US09045007B2 |
Heavy-load radial tire
A heavy-load radial tire comprises a tread portion, wherein in a tire meridian section including a tire axis under a normally inflated unloaded condition in which the tire is mounted on a standard wheel rim and inflate to a standard pressure but loaded with no tire load, the tread portion comprises a crown portion and a pair of shoulder portions each disposed axially outside the crown portion and including a tread edge, the crown portion has a crown profile being a circular arc of a radius of curvature TR1 of which the center is on a tire equatorial plane, the shoulder portion has a shoulder profile being a circular arc of a radius of curvature TR2 which crosses the crown profile at an intersection point P so that a tangent line on the shoulder profile at the intersection point P inclines at angle of not more than 7 degrees with respect to a tire axial direction, wherein the radius of curvature TR2 is 0.60 to 0.95 times the radius of curvature TR1, a plurality of sipes are provided in the shoulder portion, and each sipe extends from the tread edge toward the tire equatorial plane without going beyond the shoulder portion. |
| US09045001B2 |
Axle shaft assembly
An axle shaft is fabricated from two separate pieces. The axle shaft is comprised of an axle shaft body having a forged initial flange portion formed at one end. An axle shaft flange, fabricated by stamping or casting for example, is secured to the forged initial flange portion at a weld interface to form a finished axle shaft. |
| US09044999B2 |
Method and apparatus for mounting and demounting large wheels
Disclosed is an elongate arbor for mounting a wheel or wheel/tire combination onto an axle of a vehicle. One of the axle hub or the wheel bears threaded studs and the other bears tapped holes. The elongate arbor is terminated at one end with elongate fork tubes and at the opposite end with a flange having a plurality of apertures, says 3 apertures. The wheel to be mounted has tapped holes created to match the arbor flange apertures for mounting the wheel onto the arbor with threaded studs. Forks from, for example, a forklift, can be inserted into the elongate forklift tubes to lift and maneuver the arbor/wheel combination to align the wheel mounts with the axle mounts and threaded studs inserted for securement. The large wheel now can be mounted to axle hub of the vehicle. |
| US09044998B2 |
Rim or rim portion made of composite material
A wheel rim having an axis of rotation, the rim including a first element in the form of a section of a solid of revolution about the axis, made in a single unitary piece from composite material and including a first end and a second end distinct from one another. The first element is made by pultrusion and constitutes, between the first end and the second end, a section of a solid of revolution having an angular arc greater than 350°, the composite material of the first element includes fibers embedded in a thermosetting matrix, the fibers constituting at least 50% of the weight of the first element. |
| US09044996B2 |
Activating agent for hydraulic transfer film, hydraylic transfer method, and hydraulic transfer product
A coating agent of an ultraviolet ray hardening resin composite type for a water pressure transfer film to restore an adhesion, the ultraviolet ray hardening resin composite having a viscosity of 10-500 CPS (25° C.) and an ink solubility of SP value of 7 or more and including a photo-polymerization oligomer of 25 to 56 weight percent, a photo-polymerization monomer of bi-functional monomer of 33 to 65 weight percent and a photo-polymerization initiator of 5 to 10 weight percent for accomplishing both of membrane strength and adhesion, the photo-polymerization oligomer including a compound of multi-functional oligomer having a blend rate of 12 to 40 weight percent and bi-functional oligomer having a blend rate of 7 to 16 weight percent, the coating agent including a non-reactive resin of 2 to 10 weight percent added to the ultraviolet ray hardening resin composite, and a method of a water pressure transfer method for activating the transfer film by using the coating agent. |
| US09044990B2 |
Motorized gift package accessory
The present invention and related disclosure describes greeting cards with moving elements or devices which are operable to create motion in connection with some portion of the greeting card. The greeting card may include a multi-panel greeting card body or a three-dimensional foam greeting card body. At least one movable object is contained upon or within the greeting card body. A sound module having at least one pre-recorded digital audio file saved therein and a motor module are contained and concealed within the greeting card body. One or more switches may be used to activate the sound and motor modules, causing the pre-recorded audio file to play and causing movement of the movable or mobile object. This movement may be up-and-down or “bouncing” motion, spinning or rotational motion, side-to-side motion or any other reciprocating motion. |
| US09044987B2 |
Recording medium
A recording medium has a base, a first ink receiving layer, and a second ink receiving layer that is the outermost layer in the stated order, in which the first ink receiving layer is a layer adjacent to the second ink receiving layer, the first ink receiving layer contains fumed silica, the second ink receiving layer contains colloidal silica and resin particles, and the area in which the colloidal silica exists in the recording medium surface is 10% or more and 70% or less. |
| US09044978B2 |
Heat source unit and erasing apparatus using the heat source unit
A heat source opening and closing mechanism, around a rotation shaft of which a plurality of spring members are wound, is opened and closed an outside unit including a first heating member and a second press roller against an inside unit including a second heating member and a first press roller. The heat source opening and closing mechanism is opened and closed among a closed position where the first press roller faces to the first heating member and the second press roller faces to the second heating member, a first open state in which the load by the outside unit is commensurate with a first elastic force of the spring member, and a second open state in which an opening angle is larger than that in the first open state. |
| US09044973B2 |
Sheet conveying apparatus and printing apparatus
A sheet conveying apparatus coveys a sheet while nipping the sheet between a conveyance roller and a pinch roller. The pinch roller includes a first roller portion and a second roller portion adjacent to each other in a rotational axial direction thereof. The pinch roller further includes a mechanism configured to change a difference between a pressing force that the first roller portion applies to the conveyance roller and a pressing force that the second roller portion applies to the conveyance roller. |
| US09044972B2 |
Printing material holding container
A printing material holding container is equipped with a case which is equipped with a front surface, a first side surface, a second side surface, a third side surface, a fourth side surface, and a back surface, with a printing material holding unit being provided on the inside of the case. A first insertion hole is provided on the front surface. A printing material injection port is provided on the case, communicating with the printing material holding portion. A recess is provided in a corner portion at which the front surface and the first side surface intersect each other. The device side terminal unit is inserted into the recess in the mounted state. The recess includes an opening which is an entrance when the device side terminal unit is inserted into the recess. |
| US09044970B2 |
Recording method
A recording method includes a liquid substance discharge step of discharging a liquid substance from a discharge head toward a predetermined section of sections of the recording medium, and a radiation step of radiating light toward the liquid substance discharged on the recording medium. The liquid substance discharge step and the radiation step are performed n times, with n being an integer of 2 or greater, on the predetermined section to complete recording on the predetermined section while moving the discharge head and the recording medium relative to each other. In the n liquid substance discharge steps, with a recording rate of a first liquid substance discharge step being denoted by a % and a recording rate of a final liquid substance discharge step being denoted by b %, a>b. |
| US09044963B2 |
Laser drawing control apparatus, laser drawing apparatus, method of controlling laser drawing apparatus and computer-readable recording medium
Disclosed is a laser drawing control apparatus for thawing an image on an object by a laser light, including an end point shifting unit (1102) that obtains a drawing data for a single stroke drawing to be drawn on the object by the laser light, calculates a shifting amount (E1 and E2) for an end point (P1 and P2) of the single stroke thawing for extending the length of the single stroke drawing based on a predetermined scanning speed “x” set for the end point of the single stroke drawing, and updates the drawing data to shift the coordinate of the end point of the single stroke thawing based on the calculated shifting amount; and a thawing instruction generating unit (1103) that generates a drawing instruction to instruct a laser illuminator (12) based on the drawing data updated by the end point shifting unit. |
| US09044962B2 |
Printer, printing processing method, and recording medium
The disclosure discloses a printer including a first memory, a color detecting portion, a color identification information determining portion, and a transmitting portion. The first memory stores color correlations between a plurality of color types and a plurality of color identification information. The color detecting portion detects first color information of a print-receiving tape and second color information of an ink ribbon, of a tape cartridge mounted to a cartridge holder. The color identification information determining portion determines first color identification information of a color type corresponding to the first color information, and second color identification information of a color type corresponding to the second color information, by referring to color correlations. The transmitting portion transmits the first color identification information and the second color identification information to an operation terminal comprising substantially the same color correlations as the color correlations. |
| US09044961B2 |
Dot matrix printer for passbooks or receipts
The invention relates to a dot matrix printer (10) which comprises a printing unit (12) for printing a printing material and a feed area (20) for feeding the printing material to the printing unit (12). In the feed area (20) a gap (26) is formed through which the printing material is transported. In a print mode, the printing unit (12) prints the printing material, whereas in a feed mode the printing material can be fed from the feed area (20) to the printing unit (12) and the printing material is not printed. Further, the dot matrix printer (10) comprises a closing unit (32) which at least partially closes the gap (26) in the print mode. |
| US09044957B2 |
Liquid ejecting apparatus
A liquid ejecting apparatus includes a liquid ejecting head that ejects liquid in a manifold as liquid droplets from a nozzle opening; a supply path that supplies the liquid to the manifold; a pump unit that is disposed in the supply path and pumps the liquid; and a discharge path that discharges the liquid from the manifold, wherein a flow path resistance of the discharge path from the manifold is smaller than a flow path resistance of the supply path from the pump unit to the manifold. |
| US09044946B2 |
Droplet discharge head and image forming apparatus including same
A droplet discharge head includes a nozzle substrate containing a plurality of nozzles to discharge droplets; a channel substrate to form a plurality of individual liquid chambers to which the plurality of nozzles communicate; a common liquid chamber member, comprising a wall, to form a common liquid chamber to supply liquid to the plurality of individual liquid chambers; a wall member to form a deformable damper area on a part of the wall of the common liquid chamber member, in which the channel substrate and the common liquid chamber member are laminated together with the wall member sandwiched in between, and the channel substrate includes a concave-shaped damper chamber corresponding to the damper area; and a plurality of support pillars disposed on a concave-shaped bottom of the damper chamber, the support pillar connecting to the wall. |
| US09044945B2 |
Inkjet nozzle device having high degree of symmetry
An inkjet nozzle device includes a main chamber having a floor, a roof and a perimeter wall extending between the floor and the roof. The main chamber includes: a firing chamber having a nozzle aperture defined in the roof and an actuator for ejection of ink through the nozzle aperture; an antechamber for supplying ink to the firing chamber, the antechamber having a main chamber inlet defined in the floor; and a baffle structure partitioning the main chamber to define the firing chamber and the antechamber, the baffle structure extending between the floor and the roof. The firing chamber and the antechamber have a common plane of symmetry. |
| US09044941B2 |
Directivity detection device of trajectories of drops issuing from liquid jet, associated electrostatic sensor, print head and continuous ink jet printer
A directivity detection device for detection of trajectories of electrically charged drops issuing from a liquid jet is provided. The device includes an electrostatic sensor and a signal processing unit. The electrostatic sensor has a flat functional surface having a precise geometric shape and arrangement relative to a nominal trajectory of drops, and the signal processing unit evaluates the signal from the electrostatic sensor and performs calculations and comparisons which enable the trajectory of the drops to be followed both in the plane parallel to the flat surface of the sensor and in the plane perpendicular to the flat surface of the sensor. |
| US09044939B2 |
Printhead assembly priming
In one example, a liquid dispensing device includes a printhead assembly having a liquid port through which liquid may move between a removable liquid container and the printhead assembly and an air port through which air may flow to and from the container. A pressure source is operatively connected to the air port to pressurize the container to push liquid from the container through the liquid port into the printhead assembly. A vent is operatively connected to the air port to vent the pressurized container to draw froth from the printhead assembly through the liquid port into the container. In another example, a method for priming a printhead assembly includes pushing liquid from a container into the printhead assembly through a liquid port and then pulling froth from the printhead assembly into the container through the liquid port. |
| US09044931B2 |
Apparatus and method for applying a release agent to a substrate having a print image
An approach is provided for applying a release agent to a substrate having a first surface and a second surface. The approach involves causing, at least in part, a release agent supply device to supply release agent to a release agent applicator. The approach also involves causing, at least in part, a release agent metering device configured to control an amount of release agent applied to a roller configured to apply release agent to the first surface of the substrate. The roller is configured to accommodate the substrate under a tension over at least a portion of a circumference of the roller such that a pressure is exerted between the roller and the first surface of the substrate. |
| US09044930B1 |
Stencil assembly structure
A stencil assembly structure is used for printing solder paste on a printed circuit board. The stencil assembly structure includes a stencil and a fixing frame. The stencil includes plural first apertures and plural second aperture. The plural first apertures are collaboratively defined as a solder paste printing region. The fixing frame includes a frame body and plural guide pins. After the plural guide pins of the frame body are penetrated through the corresponding second apertures of the stencil, the stencil is fixed on the frame body. The guide pins have respective perforations, and a wire is penetrated through the perforations. By selectively loosening or tightening the wire, a tension of the stencil is adjustable. |
| US09044926B2 |
Compliant bipolar micro device transfer head with silicon electrodes
A compliant bipolar micro device transfer head array and method of forming a compliant bipolar micro device transfer array from an SOI substrate are described. In an embodiment, a compliant bipolar micro device transfer head array includes a base substrate and a patterned silicon layer over the base substrate. The patterned silicon layer may include first and second silicon interconnects, and first and second arrays of silicon electrodes electrically connected with the first and second silicon interconnects and deflectable into one or more cavities between the base substrate and the silicon electrodes. |
| US09044915B2 |
Sheet processing device and image forming system
A saddle stitching binding device includes an additional folding roller unit that presses a fold line portion of a folded sheet bundle and performs additional folding, and a unit movement mechanism that causes the additional folding roller unit to reciprocate in the width direction of the sheet bundle. The saddle stitching binding device further includes a sheet supporting device that is located on a movement path of the additional folding roller unit and supports the lower surface side of the sheet bundle when the sheet bundle after pressed is conveyed to the downstream side. In the saddle stitching binding device, a supporting position at which the sheet supporting device supports the sheet bundle and a retreat position at which the sheet supporting device permits the additional folding roller unit to move are set to the sheet supporting device. |
| US09044909B2 |
Tyre retreading method and system
A method and system (1) for retreading a tire (2), whereby the worn tread is removed from the tire (2); a green-rubber cushion (8) is wound about a carcass (6) of the tire (2); a tread strip (9) is wound about the carcass (6) and on top of the green-rubber cushion (8); and the carcass (6), complete with the green-rubber cushion (8) and the tread strip (9), is cured; prior to winding the green-rubber cushion (8) about the carcass (6), the lateral surface (7) of the carcass (6) is heated. |
| US09044900B2 |
Chemical fusion of non-metallic pipe joints
A method for joining pipes comprising the steps of forming an unadhered pipe assembly comprised of a first pipe having a socket with an inside diameter, where said socket has a mouth that is an open end of the socket, a self-centering bottom and a substantially cylindrical wall with an inlet and an outlet, a second pipe inserted into and abutted against the bottom of the socket of the first pipe, said second pipe having an outside diameter that is less than the inside diameter of the socket, where the difference in diameters defines a gap and extruding an extrudable adhesive through the inlet substantially filing the gap, wherein the adhesive solidifies joining the first and second pipe. |
| US09044896B2 |
Gusseter board with retractable nose
A gusset board has a retractable nose section that travels along a proximal-distal track and can extend to the tip of the gusset board for production of gusseted film, and can retract below the level of interfering structure and moved away from the extrusion bubble for the production on non-gusseted film. Retraction and extension of the nose portion and rocking of the gusset board can be carried out remotely. |
| US09044892B2 |
Process and device for the manufacture of a particularly heat-resistant hollow body
A process and a device for the manufacture of a hollow body, particularly of a heat-resistant hollow body, which is molded out of a heated preform of thermoplastic plastic in a contoured blow mold through the introduction of a first medium into the preform, which medium is stored in a first medium storage unit and is under a pressure (p1) (preblowing phase), and the more or less simultaneous stretching of the hollow body through a stretching rod and the introduction of a second medium in the hollow body, which medium is stored in a second medium storage unit and the pressure of which (p2) is higher than the pressure of the first medium (p1) (final blowing phase), and which is cooled by a third medium, which is medium stored in a third medium storage unit (rinsing phase), whereby the preblowing medium is under a pressure of approximately 2-20 bar, the final blowing medium is under a pressure of approximately 15-45 bar, and the cooling medium is under a pressure of approximately 30-45 bar. |
| US09044890B2 |
Method for making a part comprising a foam layer borne by a support
The invention concerns the manufacture of a part comprising a foam layer borne by a support. The invention concerns a manufacturing method including providing a foam layer (18) on a surface of a mold part (10), while the mold is open, closing the mold so that it defines a cavity between the foam layer (18) and another mold part (14), and injecting into the cavity a non-cellular plastic material designed to form the support (20). The method includes, after injecting the plastic material of the support (20), a step of gradually spacing apart at a predetermined speed the two parts of the mold (10, 14), in a direction having a component in the direction of the thickness of the foam layer (18). The invention is applicable to motor vehicle interior trims. |
| US09044887B2 |
Method of forming a container
A method of forming a plastic container from a preform. The method comprises injecting a forming liquid into the preform at a predetermined system pressure range, a predetermined flow rate, and a predetermined duration sufficient to create a pressure spike at a peak pressure. The peak pressure being greater than the system pressure to urge the preform into the mold cavity, thus creating enhanced container definition, reduced post mold shrinkage, lower residual material stresses, and/or an improved transfer of the mold geometry and engraving to the final formed container. |
| US09044884B2 |
Method of manufacturing rubber and polyolefin sole assembly
A sole assembly is formed by preheating a mold assembly, placing a quantity of rubber in a first portion of a lower recess of a mold assembly; placing a middle plate in contact with a bottom plate, and an upper plate in contact with the middle plate; subjecting the top, middle, and bottom plates to heat to semi-cure the rubber in the lower recess to form an outsole member; separating the top plate, the middle plate, and the bottom plate; placing the top plate in contact with the bottom plate, with polyolefin forming a midsole above the semi-cured rubber; moving the movable insert upwardly with respect to the top plate; subjecting the top and bottom plates to heat such that the polyolefin expands within the sole recess and the polyolefin and rubber in the sole recess fully cure, cross-link, and bond to one another to form a sole assembly; cooling the top and bottom plates; and removing the sole assembly. |
| US09044882B2 |
Article of footwear with support columns having portions with different resiliencies and method of making same
An article of footwear includes an upper; a midsole positioned beneath the upper and including a plurality of support members, at least one support member being formed of a lower portion formed of a first material, and an upper portion positioned above the lower portion and formed of a second material, the second material having a higher resiliency than that of the first material. |
| US09044881B2 |
Manufacturing nanocomposites
Techniques for preparing polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are provided. In one embodiment, a polymer extruding device includes a barrel configured to accommodate a raw material, a shaft disposed in the barrel, a motor coupled to the shaft and configured to rotate the shaft to move the raw material, and a die coupled to the barrel and including one or more first injector configured to inject nanoparticles into the die, thereby forming a layer of the nanoparticles on a surface of the raw material. The polymer extruder may further include a rotor disposed at one end of the die and configured to receive the raw material from the die. |
| US09044873B2 |
Fluid-jet systems including multiple independently-controllable bridges and fluid-jet cutting heads, and associated methods
Various embodiments of fluid-jet systems are described herein. In one embodiment, a fluid-jet system includes a table and two bridges that are each longitudinally movable along the table. Each bridge carries a fluid-jet cutting head latitudinally movable along the bridge. The fluid-jet system also includes a first controller operably coupled to the first bridge and the first fluid-jet cutting head. The first controller controls the first bridge and the first fluid-jet cutting head. The fluid-jet system also includes a second controller operably coupled to the second bridge and the second fluid-jet cutting head. The second controller controls the second bridge and the second fluid-jet cutting head independently of the control of the first bridge and the first fluid-jet cutting head by the first controller. |
| US09044872B2 |
Interleaver system for high speed slicing machine
A sheet interleaver is provided for a slicing machine that includes a slicing plane for slicing an elongated food product and a sheet of web material beneath the elongated product. The interleaver includes a supply of web material, a drawing station, and a feed station. A tensioning station is disposed between the supply of web material and the drawing station to maintain the tension of the web material at a pre-determined tension. A web accumulation station is between the drawing station and the feed station to provide a slackened length of web material within an acceptable range of slack between the drawing station and the feed station. The supply of web material is disposed on a spool which rotates about a cylindrical shaft. The cylindrical shaft has a braking mechanism which protrudes from the shaft to generate a frictional force against the spool. |
| US09044870B2 |
Dive knife with two elastic buckles at two lateral sides
A dive knife with two elastic buckles at two lateral sides includes a handle having a long groove therein; a buckle; each of a right side and a left side of the buckle having an upward elastic key; each elastic key extending upwards and being biforked at an upper end thereof so as to form with two claws; one claw near the body being as a hooking claw and another claw far away from the body being as a press key; a knife; a retaining set installed to the inner side of the rear cover; a front end of each left and right side of the lower retainer is extended with an elastic hook; and wherein in assembly, the buckle is received into the groove of the handle, the elastic hook will hook with the hooking claw of the elastic key of the buckle. |
| US09044869B2 |
Electric circular saw
An electric circular saw includes a housing, a switch trigger arranged on the housing, a switch controlling rod for limiting the travel range of the switch trigger, a base plate, a depth support arranged on the base plate and a connecting rod for limiting the travel range of the depth support. The electric circular saw further includes an movable control member having a driving portion for driving the first connecting rod and a limiting portion for limiting the switch controlling rod, and the moving distance from the driving portion to a contact surface between the driving portion and the first connecting rod is larger than or equal to the moving distance from the limiting portion to a contact surface between the limiting portion and the switch controlling rod. |
| US09044866B2 |
Laboratory system
The laboratory system according to the invention substantially comprises a transport device for samples, at least one handling device for preparing, analyzing and/or processing samples, at least one movable manipulation device for handling the samples in the region of a handling device, the manipulation device being configured for the transfer of the sample between the transport device and the handling device, and a monitoring system which travels with the manipulation device for maintaining a safety distance. The manipulation device can be moved between at least two handling devices and the monitoring system is a monitoring system which travels with the manipulation device and which is formed by a camera for producing remote images and/or a location system having at least one transmitter and at least one receiver. The receiver of the location system is mounted on the movable transport device and is constructed in such a manner that it produces an alarm signal if the at least one transmitter falls below a minimum distance relative to the receiver. |
| US09044865B2 |
Two joint module
A two joint module includes a module housing, a first joint and a second joint. The module housing has a structural support portion. The first joint has a first motor and a first motor axis and a first joint axis. The second joint has a second motor and a second motor axis and a second joint axis. The second joint axis is not parallel to the first joint axis. The first joint is attached to the structural support portion and the second joint is attached to the structural support portion. |
| US09044861B2 |
Robot
A robot includes respective arms, respective drive sources, respective angle sensors, respective inertia sensors, a posture detection unit that detects the posture of a third arm, and a second drive source control unit that selects, on the basis of a detection result of the posture detection unit, any one of a second (A) correction component, which is derived from an angular velocity ωA3 of a second axis of a third arm obtained from a third inertia sensor, an angular velocity ωA2m of a second axis of a second arm obtained from a second angle sensor, and an angular velocity ωA3m obtained from a third angle sensor, and a second (B) correction component, which is derived from an angular velocity ωA2 obtained from a second inertia sensor and the angular velocity ωA2m, and feeds back the selected correction component to control the second drive source. |
| US09044858B2 |
Target object gripping apparatus, method for controlling the same and storage medium
A target object gripping apparatus comprises: an estimation unit configured to estimate an orientation of a target object based on orientation estimation parameters; a gripping unit configured to grip the target object based on the orientation of the target object estimated by the estimation unit; a detection unit configured to detect a failure of gripping by the gripping unit; and a modifying unit configured to modify the orientation estimation parameters based on the orientation of the target object when the detection unit detects a gripping failure. |
| US09044854B2 |
Operating table with multiple degrees of freedom
Disclosed is an operating table with multiple degrees of freedom which is capable of moving and rotating in various directions. The operating table comprises an elevating mechanism, a moving mechanism on a horizontal plane and a multiple angle rotation mechanism, with the elevating mechanism and the moving mechanism adopting a leadscrew structure, the multiple angle rotation mechanism comprising a universal joint device (7) and a locking mechanism. The moving mechanism can drive the operating table (6) to move on a horizontal plane and ensure the operating table (6) can reach any location within a valid region on a horizontal plane, the moving mechanisms in the X and Y directions can operate separately as well as cooperatively, and the multiple angle rotation mechanism drives the surface of the operating table to tilt. These mechanisms work in combination to accomplish the location change of the operating table. |
| US09044847B2 |
Power tool and control method
A power tool and control method is disclosed. The power tool has a striker, which is guided along an axis parallel to an impact direction. A pneumatic chamber has a volume which varies with a movement of the striker along the axis. A valve device that is actuatable depending upon the movement direction of the striker connects the pneumatic chamber with an air reservoir. The valve device is actuated to open in the case of a movement of the striker in the impact direction and in the case of a movement of the striker against the impact direction is actuated to throttle or close. The throttled or closed valve device restricts an air flow flowing through it to a maximum of one tenth of the value as compared to the air flow in an opened position. |
| US09044843B1 |
Strip resistant screw and rescue driver
A screw with a head that includes a flat area with a first indented area located centrally within the head and a second indented area located centrally within the first indented area, and all three areas provided with grooves for engagement with tools. A screw driver having mating ridges that insert within the grooves on the first indented area rotates the screw to insert it into a substrate. A rescue driver engages the grooves of the flat head and second indented area to remove the screw from the substrate when the grooves in the first indented area become stripped. The head of an alternate screw is provided centrally with a reverse threaded female channel engagable by a reverse threaded rescue driver to remove the screw from a substrate when the grooves in the alternate screw's head that are used to insert the screw into a substrate become stripped. |
| US09044840B2 |
Sheet for mounting a workpiece and method for making the same
The present invention relates to a sheet for mounting a workpiece and a method for making the same. The method includes the steps of: (a) providing a sheet body having a top surface, a bottom surface, at least one side surface and a plurality of pores, wherein some of the pores open at the side surface; and (b) sealing or narrowing the pores that open at the side surface. Since the pores that open at the side surface are sealed or narrowed, the slurry is prevented from entering into the interior of the sheet body. Therefore, the infiltration distance reaches a predetermined value slowly, thereby increasing the effective life of the sheet. |
| US09044835B2 |
Gas container valve fastening machine
The invention is a gas container valve fastening machine which comprises a column erected on a base, a clamp unit for securely supporting a gas container placed on the base in an upright posture parallel to the column, a rotary drive unit vertically movably disposed above clamp the unit along the column, a rotary transmission unit interlocked and connected to an output shaft of the rotary drive unit, and a wrench attached to a lower end of the rotary transmission unit. A valve engaged in the wrench is rotated by the rotary transmission unit and threaded into the screw hole of a sleeve of the gas container, including a guide rod arranged parallel to the column, and a movable frame with its middle portion attached to the guide rod to be free to move in the axial direction, and free to rotate in the circumferential direction via a bearing boss. |
| US09044833B2 |
Rotor shaft of a turbomachine and method for the production of a rotor of a turbomachine
The invention relates to a rotor (1) of a turbomachine, in particular of an exhaust gas turbocharger, with a rotor wheel (2) which has a wheel back (3), and with a rotor shaft (4) which has an intermediate piece (5), via which the rotor shaft (4) is connected rigidly to the rotor wheel (2), the intermediate piece (5) being provided with a disk-shaped balancing plate (5A), the outside diameter (DA) of which is larger than the largest diameter (D4C) of the rotor shaft (4) and which is fixed to the wheel back (3) of the rotor wheel (2). |
| US09044828B2 |
Clamping device and laser welding apparatus using the same
A clamping device and a laser welding apparatus using the same are disclosed. The clamping device may include: an upper clamping link mounted rotatably upwardly or downwardly by a hinge shaft; a lower clamping link mounted rotatably in an opposite direction of the upper clamping link by the hinge shaft and corresponding to the upper clamping link; at least two upper rollers rotatably mounted at the upper clamping link; at least two lower rollers rotatably mounted at the lower clamping link, corresponding to the upper roller, and fixing a welding object together with the upper rollers; and an operating cylinder configured to rotate the upper clamping link and the lower clamping link in opposite directions to each other. |
| US09044827B2 |
Real-time implementation of generalized predictive algorithm for direct metal deposition (DMD) process control
A direct metal deposition (DMD) process is stabilized by monitoring the temperature and the shape of the melt pool during deposition, applying a recursive least square (RLS) model estimation algorithm to adaptively identify process characteristics in accordance with the temperature and the shape of the melt pool, and delivering the process characteristics to a generalized predictive controller with input constraints to control the process. The process may be controlled by adjusting laser power or by adjusting the speed of the movement of the laser. In the preferred embodiment the temperature is monitored using a two-color pyrometer, and the shape of the melt pool is monitored by detecting the edge of the melt pool with a camera and/or photodetector. |
| US09044825B2 |
Method for welding depending on a preferred direction of the substrate
Welding repairs are often carried out on directionally solidified components that nevertheless do not possess the desired crystallographic surface alignment, which reduces mechanical strength. The method provided selects the direction of travel depending on the crystallographically preferred direction of the substrate such that no more misorientations occur. A laser beam may be used for remelting. |
| US09044824B2 |
Method and system for laser processing
The invention relates to laser cutting, using multiple laser beams directed to a processing region. At least one first laser beam (2) is coupled into the work piece (1) material to generate a melt (5) and to form a keyhole (3). At least one second beam (6) is guided onto selected surface regions (7) of the melt (5). The laser energy is provided to the processing region as individual beams that may be conditioned independently. The invention has the advantage that arbitrary energy distributions can be arranged in the processing region as determined according to the requirements of the laser cutting process, rather than being limited by an inappropriate beam shape of a single high power laser beam. |
| US09044822B2 |
Transient liquid phase bonding process for double sided power modules
A double-sided bonding process using transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding structure. A first side of an electronic device is processed to partially complete bonding. A second side of the electronic device is processed to complete bonding. The first side completes bonding during the processing of the second side. This reduces the time needed for the bonding process of both sides. This process allows for various TLP bonding parameters while being compatible with conventional fabrication systems. |
| US09044819B2 |
Laser processing apparatus
A laser processing apparatus includes a beam diameter adjusting unit provided between a laser oscillator and a focusing unit, an imaging unit for detecting the beam diameter of the laser beam directed to a detection path, an optical path length changing unit for moving the imaging unit along the detection path to thereby change an optical path length, and a controller for controlling the imaging unit, the beam diameter adjusting unit, and the optical path length changing unit. The controller operates to move the imaging unit to two positions where different optical path lengths are provided, detect the beam diameters of the laser beam at the two positions, and controls the beam diameter adjusting unit according to the two beam diameters detected above so that the two beam diameters have a predetermined relation. |
| US09044811B2 |
Surface coated cutting tool
A surface coated cutting tool with a high level of both wear resistance and defect resistance in balance is provided. The surface coated cutting tool of the present invention includes a base material, and a coat film formed on the base material. The coat film includes at least one titanium carbonitride layer. The titanium carbonitride layer has a maximum value for an orientational index TC (220) among texture coefficients TC (hkl). When an indentation hardness of a standard block for hardness is Hs and an indentation hardness of the titanium carbonitride layer is Ht, the average value of the relative hardness Ht/Hs for a plurality of times of measurement is greater than or equal to 3. The difference between the maximum value Htmax/Hs and minimum value Htmin/Hs of the relative hardness of the titanium carbonitride layer to the relative hardness Ht/Hs is less than or equal to 0.5. |
| US09044809B2 |
Method for producing aqueous compatible nanoparticles
A method for producing aqueous compatible semiconductor nanoparticles includes binding pre-modified ligands to nanoparticles without the need for further post-binding modification to render the nanoparticles aqueous compatible. Nanoparticles modified in this way may exhibit enhanced fluorescence and stability compared to aqueous compatible nanoparticles produced by methods requiring post-binding modification processes. |
| US09044807B2 |
Centrifugally cast composite roll and its production method
A centrifugally cast composite roll comprising an outer layer formed by a centrifugal casting method, and an inner layer made of ductile cast iron and integrally fused to the outer layer; the outer layer being made of an Fe-based alloy having a chemical composition comprising by mass at least 0.8-3.0% of Cr, 1.5-6.0% of Mo, and 1.8-5.5% of V, and a metal structure in which the area ratio of graphite is 0.3-10%; the inner layer comprising a roll body portion fused to the outer layer, and shaft portions integrally extending from both ends of the roll body portion; and the total amount of Cr, Mo and V being 0.15-2.0% by mass in end portions of both shaft portions, and the difference in the total amount of Cr, Mo and V between one shaft portion and the other shaft portion being 0.2% or more by mass. |
| US09044805B2 |
Layer-by-layer construction with bulk metallic glasses
Described herein is a method of selectively depositing molten bulk metallic glass (BMG). In one embodiment, a continuous stream or discrete droplets of molten BMG is deposited to selected positions. The deposition can be repeated as needed layer by layer. One or more layers of non-BMG can be used as needed. |
| US09044803B1 |
Flaring tool
A flaring tool includes a tubular first holding member. A collet well extends into the first holding member. A collet has a primary end positioned in the collet well. A second holding member is coupled to the first holding member. A collet channel extends into the second holding member. The collet well aligns with the collet channel when the second holding member is coupled to the first holding member. The collet has a secondary end that is positioned in the collet channel. A punch channel extends into the second holding member. The punch channel is aligned with the collet. A punch is insertable into the punch channel. The first holding member and the collet receive the line through the first holding member and the collet. The punch compresses the end of the line between the punch and the collet so the end of the line is flared. |
| US09044798B2 |
Wired conduit segment and method of making same
A method of manufacturing a downhole conduit segment is disclosed. The method includes: extruding a material as a tubular shape to form a body of the conduit segment having an interior bore extending through a length of the segment, the body including an exterior surface and an interior surface defined by the interior bore, the material being an extrudable material sufficient to withstand conditions in a downhole environment; and extruding at least one passageway extending along the length of the body and disposed at least partially between the exterior surface and the interior surface, the at least one passageway having a shape configured to restrict lateral movement of a conductor disposed therein. |
| US09044797B2 |
Device for producing a circularly cylindrical body
A method is for producing a circular cylindrical body (10) comprising a workable mass, having at least one helical internal cavity extending in the interior of the body. The body (10) is initially produced with a straight internal recess, for example by means of extrusion. Afterwards the body is cut to a defined length. The body (10) that has been cut to length is then subjected to a rolling process by means of a friction surface arrangement (23) while being supported over the entire length thereof on a support means (16). The rolling process takes place in multiple steps, wherein a rolling movement using a first axis of rotation (25) is performed in a first step, and a rolling movement using a second axis of rotation (26) that is different from the first axis of rotation is used in a second step. There is also an apparatus for performing the method. |
| US09044793B2 |
Method for cleaning film formation apparatus and method for manufacturing semiconductor device
A method for cleaning a hot-wall type film formation apparatus having a batch processing system with industrially high mass productivity is provided. In the method, a carbon film deposited on an inner wall or the like of a reaction chamber of the apparatus is removed efficiently in a short time. To remove the carbon film deposited on the inner wall of the reaction chamber by a thermal CVD method, the reaction chamber is heated at a temperature higher than or equal to 700° C. and lower than or equal to 800° C., and oxygen is introduced into the reaction chamber. |
| US09044790B2 |
Air cannon assembly having an automated blast guard valve
An air cannon has a pressure vessel, a discharge valve, and a discharge tube assembly. The discharge tube assembly comprises a fluid passageway and a blast guard valve. The discharge valve is capable of opening and closing and allows pressurized gas to be discharged from the pressure vessel into the fluid passageway of the discharge tube assembly only when open. The blast guard valve is capable of opening and closing and obstructs the fluid passageway of the discharge tube assembly when closed. The blast guard valve allows gas to pass through the fluid passageway when open. The discharge valve and the blast guard valve are operatively connected to each other in a manner such that the discharge valve can open only when the blast guard valve is open. |
| US09044787B1 |
Automatic scratch-off material removal device
An automatic scratch-off material removing device for lottery tickets comprises an enclosure, a power source, a brush, and a retention tray. The enclosure comprises a durable housing for the various components of the device having a loading slot where a user may insert a lottery ticket. The power source comprises a replaceable battery which is housed inside the enclosure and accessed via a removable cover located within a bottom surface of the enclosure. The brush comprises an electric rotating brush system which removes the scratch-off material from the ticket via a brush assembly. The excess scratch-off material falls into the retention tray, which is slidably removable from a rear portion of the enclosure. |
| US09044783B2 |
System and method of unloading a container of items
Embodiments of a system and method for unloading articles from a container of items for use in an automatic stack feeder are disclosed. The automatic stack feeder may comprise a belt, a moveable lower paddle, and a moveable upper paddle, wherein the lower paddle is configured to partially extend through a belt of the automatic stack feeder. The movement of the belt, the lower paddle, and the upper paddle are coordinated such that there is no need to interrupt the operation of the automatic stack feeder to unload the container. |
| US09044781B2 |
Microfluidics delivery systems
Methods of dispensing a small amount of liquid onto a work piece includes in some embodiments known providing a microscopic channel for the liquid to flow from the nanodispenser. In some embodiments, dispensing the liquid includes dispensing the liquid using a nanodispenser have at least one slit extending to the tip. Some methods include controlling the rate of evaporation or the rate of liquid flow to establish an equilibrium producing a bubble of a desired size. |
| US09044776B2 |
Stabilized high flow doctor blade head for transfer roller
A doctor blade head for coating a transfer roller includes a semi-cylindrical cavity to enable streamline fluid flow therethrough, and check plates at the inlet and outlet openings for permitting unidirectional flow into the inlet opening from said pump and out of the outlet opening toward the pump. An hydraulic accumulator acts as a fluid pressure and fluid velocity balancing device, and includes a rolling diaphragm piston moving in a cylinder that is connected to the inlet fluid path, with a spring impinging on the piston to absorb pressure surges and compensate pressure dropoffs. |
| US09044775B2 |
System and process for coating an object
Coating systems and processes are disclosed for uniformly coating objects. The system comprises a pre-treatment unit, a first processing unit, a first post-treatment unit and one or more coating apparatus each configured to engage an object and rotate the object around or about two or more axes. The coating apparatus used in the system can comprise a first, second and/or third gimbals connected to rotational mechanisms to allow rotation of the gimbals around or about first, second and/or third axis. An object holder is connected to the third gimbal. When an object is present in the object holder, it can be immersed in a coating solution to form a coated object. The coated object is then rotated around or about two or three axes which produces a multidirectional centrifugal force which causes the coating solution to spread evenly over the surface of the object to produce a uniform thin film. |
| US09044774B2 |
Vented combinatorial processing cell
A vented combinatorial processing cell is described, including a sleeve having an end forming a fluid seal with a region of a substrate, a flow head including a vent and disposed in the sleeve to dispense fluid onto the region, the flow head, the substrate, and the sleeve defining a chamber for processing the region, a fluid source attached to the flow head to deliver the fluid into the chamber, and a vacuum port attached to the flow head to remove fluid from the chamber. |
| US09044771B2 |
Pump
An improved pump is provided that is capable of achieving excellent back suction function by using a depression head, without compromising the ease of depression operations of the head due to the additional function. The pump includes a depression head and an annular piston. The depression head is urged upward and is relatively displaceable with respect to the stem. When depressed, a lever member of the depression head operates to open a discharge opening. An annular piston opens a discharge valve, in an uppermost displacement position and closes the discharge valve in a lowermost displacement position. Back suction is caused due to a negative pressure state occurring in the stem until the discharge valve seat is closed by the annular piston during upward displacement of the stem. |
| US09044770B1 |
Animal deterrent device
A device for deterring entry of animals within an area is disclosed. The device may include a sprinkler for providing a fluid spray pattern to an area and a sprinkler valve having at least an open and closed state. A signal-transmitting component may be in electrical communication with the sprinkler valve. A motion sensor may be in electrical communication with the signal-transmitting component and a light sensor may be in electrical communication with the signal-transmitting component. The signal-transmitting component may comprise logic circuitry configured to transmit an open valve signal based on signals received from the motion sensor and the light sensor. |
| US09044768B2 |
Fluid dispenser
A fluid dispenser including a casing having a mounting mechanism (2), a connection mechanism (3), and a cylinder (4) with an insertion-and-removal opening (48) defining an axis X; a dispenser member (5) received in the mounting mechanism (2); and a fluid reservoir (6). The reservoir (6) includes a bottom wall (61) accessible at the insertion-and-removal opening (48). The connection mechanism (3) has a reception collar (7), the reception collar (7) guided in axial movement in the cylinder (4) along the axis X against the action of a spring (9). The connection mechanism (3) includes a ring (8) arranged between the reception collar (7) and the spring (9), the ring (8) engaging both the cylinder (4) and the reception collar (7) and responsive to pressure applied against the bottom wall (61) of the reservoir (6), by switching between a locked position and a free position. |
| US09044764B2 |
Device for applying viscous media
A device for applying a fluid media onto a substrate as the substrate is moved past the device in an advancement direction includes a channel. A slot nozzle is arranged downstream of the channel in a flow direction of the fluid media. A nozzle body comprises dispensing nozzles. Each dispensing nozzle comprises a dispensing opening which leads into the channel. The dispensing openings are arranged on a line extending transverse to the advancement direction. Application modules are configured to intermittently dispense the fluid media onto the substrate via the dispensing nozzles. The application modules are arranged on the nozzle body in at least two rows offset from each other transverse to the advancement direction of the substrate. Adjacent rows of the at least two rows are inclined towards one another at an inclination angle. The at least two rows are arranged to incline along the line. |
| US09044757B2 |
Capillary fluid flow control
A fluid flow control device controls flow of fluid in a capillary pathway device having a first capillary passage with an inlet and an outlet and a fluid application region for receiving a liquid sample for entry to the capillary passage via the inlet, with the fluid flow control device comprising first sealing means operable for releasably sealing the outlet of the first capillary passage. |
| US09044754B2 |
Micro chip
Instant invention is about a micro chip comprising plurality of layers of LTCC wherein a reaction chamber is formed in plurality of top layers to load samples. A heater embedded in at least one of the layers below the reaction chamber and a temperature sensor is embedded in at least one of the layers between the heater and the reaction chamber for analyzing the sample. The temperature sensor can be placed outside the chip to measure the chip temperature. |
| US09044747B2 |
Method of regenerating ion exchange resins
An improved process for regenerating ion exchange resin, includes a regeneration step of displacing captured ions from the resin to regenerate its ion-capture functionality, followed by one or more fluid-employing post-regeneration steps such as a fluid displacement or rinse, a fluid transporting or mixing, and a rinse down to quality. To avoid problems of early leakage of weakly held ions such as boron, the post-chemical or postdisplacement steps use water that is essentially free of boron, or otherwise avoid localized contamination in the regenerated resin which is used in bottles or beds (30). A two-stage polish may be operated with modified lead/lag bottles. A detector (D) for an indicator condition (conductivity, silica breakthrough) between stages determines when to shift the lag bottle forward, and periodically both bottles are replaced. |
| US09044746B2 |
Photocatalyst with enhanced stability for hydrogen production and oxidative reactions
A Ti02-based photocatalyst is fabricated as a composite of titania with adhered nanostructures which contain a non-noble metal in galvanic contact with a noble metal. The catalyst effectively overcome aging and/or deactivation effects observed in a system free of the non-noble metal. The composite material showed a corrosion protective effect on the photoactivity of fresh catalyst for over 180-240 days, and it enhanced the rate of the water reduction reaction relative to bare Ti02. Variations in porosity and non-noble metal content of the alloy portion of the nanostructures influenced the performance of the catalyst composite. The protective effect of the non-noble metal is through a cathodic corrosion protection mechanism. |
| US09044744B2 |
Catalyst for treating exhaust gas
Provided is a catalyst composition having an aluminosilicate molecular sieve having an AEI structure and a mole ratio of silica-to-alumina of about 20 to about 30 loaded with about 1 to about 5 weight percent of a promoter metal, based on the total weight of the molecular sieve material. Also provided are method, articles, and systems utilizing the catalyst composition. |
| US09044743B2 |
Catalyst for decomposition of nitrogen oxides
This invention relates generally to a platinized tin oxide-based catalyst. It relates particularly to an improved platinized tin oxide-based catalyst able to decompose nitric oxide to nitrogen and oxygen without the necessity of a reducing gas. |
| US09044742B2 |
Method for producing stable, high-purity molded bodies from pyrogenic metal oxides without the addition of binders
Shaped bodies with good strength properties are prepared from pyrogenic metal oxide(s) by suspending the metal oxide(s) in a liquid, milling to activate the metal oxide particles, forming an activated homogenous suspension, coagulating the suspension, and forming shaped bodies therefrom. |
| US09044738B2 |
Methods and compositions for extraction and storage of nucleic acids
The present disclosure generally relates to solid matrices for the extraction, stabilization, and storage of nucleic acids, particularly RNA, in a dry format under ambient conditions for a prolonged period of time. Methods for extracting, collecting, and recovering nucleic acids from the solid compositions are also described. |
| US09044737B2 |
Radioactive iodine adsorbent and radioactive iodine removal apparatus
A radioactive iodine removal apparatus applying a radioactive iodine adsorbent according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an iodine filter that is provided in a chamber of a duct to which flue gas containing radioactive iodine is fed, and includes a radioactive iodine adsorbent that adsorbs radioactive iodine contained in the flue gas. The radioactive iodine adsorbent includes a carrier constituting a matrix and an impregnated substance with which the carrier is impregnated. The impregnated substance contains at least TEDA, and an impregnated amount of the TEDA is from 3.0% by mass to less than 10.0% by mass. |
| US09044736B2 |
Method for producing metal substrate for flue gas denitration catalyst
A metal substrate for flue gas-denitration catalyst that, like SUS304, can be used without corroding is provided by improving the corrosion resistance of SUS430 substrate that is inexpensive and can easily be supplied stably. A method for producing the metal substrate for flue gas-denitration catalyst, wherein the method comprising the steps of: lath-processing a band-shaped steel plate made of ferrite stainless steel into a band-shaped metal lath; (1) degreasing process oil adhering to the metal lath; (2) passing the metal lath through a solution containing phosphoric acid and surfactant to load the solution; (3) draining off the excess solution; and (4) drying and heating the solution-loaded metal lath to react the phosphoric acid with the substrate, in which respective steps are carried out sequentially to form a film of phosphate compound on a surface of the substrate. |
| US09044731B2 |
Radio frequency hydrocarbon resource upgrading apparatus including parallel paths and related methods
A radio frequency (RF) hydrocarbon resource upgrading device may include a first hydrocarbon resource upgrading path that may include a plurality of first RF power applicator stages coupled in series. Each first RF power stage is configured to apply RF power to upgrade a hydrocarbon resource passing therethrough. The RF hydrocarbon resource upgrading device may also include a second hydrocarbon resource upgrading path that may include at least one second RF power applicator stage coupled in parallel with at least one of the first RF power applicator stages. The second RF power applicator stage is configured to apply RF power to upgrade the hydrocarbon resource passing therethrough. |
| US09044727B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for controlling heat for rapid thermal processing of carbonaceous material
Embodiments of apparatuses and methods for controlling heat for rapid thermal processing of carbonaceous material are provided herein. The apparatus comprises a reheater for containing a fluidized bubbling bed comprising an oxygen-containing gas, inorganic heat carrier particles, and char and for burning the char into ash to form heated inorganic particles. An inorganic particle cooler is in fluid communication with the reheater to receive a first portion of the heated inorganic particles. The inorganic particle cooler is configured to receive a cooling medium for indirect heat exchange with the first portion of the heated inorganic particles to form first partially-cooled heated inorganic particles that are fluidly communicated to the reheater and combined with a second portion of the heated inorganic particles to form second partially-cooled heated inorganic particles. A reactor is in fluid communication with the reheater to receive the second partially-cooled heated inorganic particles. |
| US09044721B2 |
Fuel injection device and method for a fuel reformer
In a fuel injection device and method for injecting hydrocarbon fuel into a fuel reformer, the temperature of the fuel injection device is regulated by simultaneously heating the fuel and cooling the fuel injection device. |
| US09044718B2 |
Mixing vessel
A mixing vessel includes a flexible container, elements for mixing its contents, aeration elements, a drain/lower bearing port having a rigid flange provided with a drain passage, attached in a tight manner to the lower portion of the container wall, supporting a lower bearing that is adjacent to the drain passage. The vessel includes an extended element for dispensing aeration gas and is spaced essentially radially from the drain/bearing port; at least one tubular element for dispensing aeration gas extends from the extended dispensing element, in the inside space, along the inside surface of the lower portion and the side portion of the wall of the container and extends on the outside of the container from the upper portion; at least one mixing element is spaced essentially from the lower portion of the container wall, from the lower bearing, and from at least one extended element for dispensing aeration gas. |
| US09044717B2 |
Centrifugal device
A centrifugal device capable of adjusting a temperature of a material. The centrifugal device applies centrifugal force on a contained material contained within a container by spinning the container while rotating the container. The centrifugal device includes: a rotating body rotating around a predetermined rotation axis line; a container holder that holds the container and is attached in a rotatable manner to the rotating body in a position that is a predetermined distance away from the rotation axis line of the rotating body; a compartment body that compartmentalizes a space including an area in which the rotating body rotates; one or a plurality of projection bodies that project from an inner surface of the compartment body towards the area in which the rotating body rotates; and a temperature adjustor that adjusts the temperature of the compartment body. |
| US09044712B2 |
Supersaturated fluid degassing
An elongated flow-through degassing apparatus includes an elongated gas permeable outer shell and one or more gas-permeable, liquid-impermeable elongated inner conveyance members extending within the outer shell and at least partially through a chamber defined within the outer shell. The apparatus also includes inlet and outlet junctions for securing the outer shell to the inner conveyance member. The outer shell exhibits a first permeance that is substantially greater than a second permeance of the inner conveyance member. The degassing apparatus may be sufficiently flexible so as to be readily manipulatable into desired configurations. |
| US09044709B2 |
Process for biocatalytic CO2 capture using dimethylmonoethanolamine, diethylmonoethanolamine or dimethylglycine
A formulation and process for capturing CO2 use an absorption mixture containing water, biocatalysts and an absorption compound selected from dimethylmonoethanolamine (DMMEA), diethylmonoethanolamine (DEMEA), and dimethylglycine. The process may include contacting a CO2-containing gas with the absorption mixture to enable dissolution and transformation of CO2 into bicarbonate and hydrogen ions, thereby producing a CO2-depleted gas and an ion-rich solution, followed by subjecting the ion-rich solution to desorption. |
| US09044707B2 |
Microwave plasma abatement apparatus
In a method of operating a microwave plasma abatement apparatus comprising a microwave generator, and a gas chamber for receiving microwave energy from the microwave generator and within which a plasma is generated using the microwave energy, the amount of microwave energy that is not absorbed within the gas chamber is monitored, and the power of the microwave energy generated by the microwave generator is adjusted in dependence on the monitored microwave energy. |
| US09044703B2 |
Unsteady-state gas permeation process
There is provided a process for effecting permeation of at least an operative material component of an operative mixture from a higher pressure space, through a membrane, and into a lower pressure space, wherein the higher pressure space is disposed in mass transfer communication with the lower pressure space through the membrane. |
| US09044698B2 |
Filter with a replaceable filter insert
A fluid filter with a housing, a releasable cover, and a replaceable filter having a filter body and two end discs. The filter is plugged onto a housing pipe and a locking ring is guided on the pipe, preloaded in a push-out direction. The locking ring is locked in a pushed-out position by a locking device. An unlocking device guided by the filter unlocks the locking device when the filter is pushed onto the pipe and enables the locking ring and the filter to be pushed in. When the filter is fitted into the housing, a seal on the end disc or locking ring interacts with a housing sealing surface to separate an untreated filter side from a clean side. When the locking ring is in the pushed-out position and the filter bears against the locking ring, the seal is held away from the sealing surface of the housing. |
| US09044694B2 |
Device for capture and lysis of microorganisms from liquids
Devices and methods for detecting microbial contaminants, such as bacteria and fungi, in fluids such as drinking water, pharmaceutical solutions and tissue culture media are provided. More particularly, provided are filtration devices for capture and processing of microorganisms from fluids, and improved methods for recovery, lysis and detection of microorganisms based on a combination of physical disruption with small beads and lysis solutions. |
| US09044688B1 |
Play platform with removable containers for building blocks and other child activities
The legless, planar, rectangular platform may consist of a top that will be the primary play surface. In addition to the rectangular platform, additional members may be included. A front member may be attached to the primary platform and may run along the width of the invention. A second member, considered one side of the invention, may be attached in a like manner to the primary platform as the front member, as well as being attached at a 90 degree angle to the front member with slots for drawers. The four members when attached together may form a rectangular shaped structure to which the primary flat member is attached. Removable bins may also be included. Each bin may attach along the periphery of the primary flat platform for ease of access and secure storage. |
| US09044684B2 |
Gender and age based gameplay through face perception
There is provided a system and method for determining a gender and age of a player of a game. There is a method comprising capturing an image of at least one player, and determining the gender and age of the player based on the image. In this manner, the game may be customized to he more relevant or attractive to the player's gender and/or age group. |
| US09044681B2 |
System and method for television-based services
A system, method, and processor-readable media for providing interactive, television-based gaming service, comprising a server cluster including processor electronics configured to send and receive messages and to execute a game, a first set-top box coupled to a first headend managed by a first television service provider, the first set-top box executing a first game client for enabling a first user to play the game executed by the server cluster, a second set-top box coupled to a second headend managed by a second television service provider, the second set-top box executing a second game client for enabling a second user to play the game executed by the server cluster, wherein the server cluster is coupled to the first and second headends via a public network and further configured to enable the first user to play the game with or against the second user. |
| US09044678B2 |
Method and/or system for adaptive gaming experience
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to systems for providing an interactive experience to game participants. |
| US09044666B2 |
Cue ball deflections path teaching aid and method
A cue ball deflection path training aid used by beginning pool or billiards players to help them optimally position the cue ball for the next shot. The aid includes cue ball deflection grid attached or imprinted on a cue stick's top surface. The grid includes a main neutral line, a transverse line, and two diagonally aligned lines that converge to designate a center intersection point. The two diagonal lines are aligned at approximately 60 degrees from the transverse line. The grid is oriented on the cue stick so that the main neutral line is aligned with the cue stick's longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the grid is printed on an adhesive label attached to or near the cue stick's midline axis. During use, the player holds the cue stick so that lines of the grid are aligned with the aiming line or over the object ball path line. |
| US09044660B2 |
Golf club with cut-out cavity
A golf club having a club head with a cut-out cavity which is configured to accept the footwear of a golfing instructor, caddy, playing partner, or other individual available to assist the golfer. The club head has a flat bottom and a downwardly and rearwardly sloping top surface. It is aerodynamically designed, both as to the outer shape of the club head and the configuration of the cavity, to increase driving distances. |
| US09044659B2 |
Slip and counter fight simulation / workout machine
A slip and counter fight simulation apparatus has a plurality of arms that move in random/programmable fashion, directing jabs, hooks and upper-cut punches at an individual to thereby promote physical fitness, and provide fight training and/or fight simulations. The fight simulation apparatus comprises at least two substantially parallel opposing side walls. Each side wall includes at least three height-adjustable arms that traverse separate slots and are substantially parallel to one another. A glove appendage member is located on a proximate end of each of the arms. At least one counter area/element is provided. The arms are constructed and arranged to provide different punch configurations, including hook punches, straight punches or uppercuts and uppercut type punches, respectively. |
| US09044657B2 |
Hockey stick blade
A hockey stick blade comprising an elongated fiber-reinforced polymer body having a fiber-reinforced polymer front face element and a fiber-reinforced polymer rear face element. The rear face element is spaced apart from the front face element. The blade also comprises a plurality of elongated longitudinal cavities within the body between the front face element and the rear face element. The longitudinal cavities have curved ends in transverse cross-section. The longitudinal cavities define at least one fiber-reinforced polymer structural member interconnecting the front face element and the rear face element. The at least one structural element is biconcave in transverse cross-section. The hockey stick blade has a neck, a heel and a toe. A method of bladder molding a hockey stick blade is also disclosed. |
| US09044655B1 |
Golf putter
A golf putter includes a putter head, a shaft and hand grip. The putter head includes a lower curved striking face and a substantially straight upper striking face. The straight striking face extends upward vertically from an upper end of the curved striking face. A height as measured from a bottom surface to a junction of the straight striking face and the curved striking face is at least one half the outer diameter of a regulation golf ball. An alignment striking line is created on a top and middle of the putter head. The hand grip is attached to one end of the shaft. The other end of the shaft is inserted into a top of the putter head. An impact plate is attached to a bottom and front of the putter head. A plurality of horizontal grooves are formed in the impact plate. |
| US09044649B2 |
Device for automatically supplying golf balls
A novel device for automatically supplying golf balls. A stopper, a golf ball lifting part, an inclined guide part and an inclined lifting part disposed inside a main body cooperate with each other to automatically lift a golf ball from a rear portion of the main body by placing the golf ball on a lifting tee so that a golfer can hit the ball using a driver. An iron shot hitting part is further provided at one side of the main body so that the golfer can practice driver shots and iron shots concurrently and conveniently at the same time. The lifting tee is inclined to the left in order to supply a ball seated on the inclined lifting part to the iron shot hitting part. The iron shot hitting part has a plurality of detection recesses with which a golfer or a beginner can correct his/her posture. |
| US09044647B2 |
Golf balls having a multi-layered core with a thermoset rubber center
Multi-piece golf balls having a multi-layered solid core and cover of at least one layer are provided. In one preferred embodiment, a five-piece ball is formed. The center of the core is made of a thermoset rubber material. Three intermediate layers of thermoplastic material enclose the center. The outer cover layer is made of a composition comprising a polyurethane, polyurea, or copolymer or blend thereof. The finished ball has high resiliency and rebounding properties. |
| US09044646B2 |
Process for making thermoplastic golf ball material and golf ball with thermoplastic material
A thermoplastic golf ball material is made by combining and reacting (a) an unneutralized copolymer of ethylene and at least one of acrylic acid and methacrylic acid, which has from about 5 to about 12 percent by weight acid monomer; (b) a metallocene-catalyzed copolymer of ethylene and octene; (c) an unsaturated fatty acid; and (d) a metal cation in an amount sufficient to neutralize from about 65 to about 90% of the acid groups, to produce an ionomeric thermoplastic material. The ionomeric thermoplastic material may be used in a core, a cover, or a layer between a core and a cover of a golf ball. |
| US09044639B2 |
Support frame for exercise apparatus
A support frame for an exercise apparatus includes a base, and a smoothly arched moving arm member slidably coupled to the base. The moving arm member defines a first end connected to a wheel pedal unit and an opposing second end connected to a saddle unit, such that a distance difference between the first and second ends in the vertical direction, as well as in the horizontal direction, changes subject to changing the relative position between the moving arm member and the base. Thus, by means of moving the moving arm member relative to the base, the distance difference between the first and second ends is relatively changed, causing change of the relative position between the wheel pedal unit and the saddle unit. This allows the user to select a normal upright sitting exercise mode or a recumbent sitting exercise mode. |
| US09044636B2 |
Training device with hanging seat
According to an embodiment of this invention, a training device is disclosed and comprises a conveyor belt, a frame set, and a hanging seat. The conveyor belt is used for a user walks on it in place for physical medicine or rehabilitation. The frame set is arranged around the conveyor belt for providing a support. The hanging seat is hanged on the frame set for supporting the user, comprising a trunk having a front end and a rear end, a seat connected with the rear end of the trunk, and at least one belt connected with the trunk and hanged on the frame set. |
| US09044635B2 |
Exercise bicycle with magnetic flywheel brake
An exercise bicycle including a frame supporting a flywheel. A magnetic brake assembly includes a brake arm pivotally mounted to the frame and including at least one magnet. The magnet is positioned adjacent to the flywheel and not in contact with the flywheel, the position of the magnet relative to the flywheel inducing a magnetic braking force on the flywheel. The pivot of the brake arm is positioned such that a pivot force vector induced on the brake arm by the magnetic braking acts to pivot the brake arm away from the flywheel. |
| US09044629B2 |
Sliding grip fitness apparatus
A multi-purpose, adjustable fitness apparatus is provided for performing exercises; in particular, sliding pull-ups and push-ups. Two in-line metal bars are interposed by a T-connector. A sliding handle grip may be disposed on each bar between a pair of retaining collars. A radius elbow including a foot is attached to each bar. A first adapter for a first setting includes a crossbar and elbow tube is slidably locked to the perpendicular leg of the T-connector. The apparatus may be mounted over a doorframe; the elbow tube and T-connector provides adjustability to fit frames of various widths. A second adapter for a second setting includes a third foot fitted to the T-connector, and provides stability on a horizontal surface. |
| US09044628B2 |
Fire suppression system
A fire suppression system includes a volume reduction system having a seal member. The seal member is selectively deployable between a first position and a second position to seal an opening in a confined space. |
| US09044621B2 |
Lip stick
Disclosed is an anhydrous lipstick comprising a combination of active ingredients comprising Portulaca pilosa extract, sunflower oil, jojoba esters, mango butter, and tocopherol and a dermatologically acceptable carrier comprising glyceryl behenate/eicosadioate. |
| US09044618B2 |
Shockwave valvuloplasty catheter system
A valvuloplasty system comprises a balloon adapted to be placed adjacent leaflets of a valve. The balloon is inflatable with a liquid. The system further includes a shock wave generator within the balloon that produces shock waves. The shock waves propagate through the liquid and impinge upon the valve to decalcify and open the valve. |
| US09044617B2 |
External charger for a medical implantable device using field inducing coils to improve coupling
By incorporating magnetic field-inducing position determination coils (PDCs) in an external charger, it is possible to determine the position of an implantable device by actively inducing magnetic fields using the PDCs and sensing the reflected magnetic field from the implant. In one embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source with a frequency equal to the charging coil. In another embodiment, the PDCs are driven by an AC power source at a frequency different from that of the charging coil. By comparing the relative reflected magnetic field strengths at each of the PDCs, the position of the implant relative to the external charger can be determined. Audio and/or visual feedback can then be communicated to the patient to allow the patient to improve the alignment of the charger. |
| US09044615B2 |
Method and system for validating local capture in multisite pacing delivery
A method for use with an implantable system including a lead having multiple electrodes implantable proximate to a patient's left ventricular (LV) chamber includes simultaneously delivering pacing pulses over corresponding pacing vectors defined by electrodes proximate to the LV chamber. The method includes recording evoked responses responsive to the pacing pulses that are measured over separate corresponding sensing channels. The method also includes comparing the evoked responses to a template that represents local capture of a local LV tissue region along one or more of the corresponding pacing vectors. The comparison is used to determine whether the pacing pulses achieved local capture along the corresponding pacing vectors. At least one of the pacing pulses or pacing vectors are updated based on the comparison of the evoked responses to the template in order to determine a local capture threshold for the corresponding pacing vectors. |
| US09044613B2 |
Transcutaneous electrical stimulation waveform generator and method of use
A transcutaneous waveform generator capable of producing a therapeutic shaped wave that may be administered to the user without perception of electrical stimulation. |
| US09044612B2 |
Apparatus and method for extending implant life using a dual power scheme
A device according to some embodiments may include a housing configured for location external to a body of a subject. The device may also include at least one processor associated with the housing and configured for electrical communication with a power source, and an antenna associated with the at least one processor. The at least one processor may be configured to communicate with an implant circuit located within the body of the subject, cause the implant circuit to receive power in a first power mode and in a second power mode, wherein a first level of power delivered in the first power mode is less than a second level of power delivered in the second power mode, and wherein during a therapy period, power delivery in the first mode occurs over a total time that is greater than about 50% of the therapy period. |
| US09044611B2 |
Systems and methods for selectively migrating cells using electric fields
Systems and methods are provided for migrating cells implanted or endogenous in tissue. The system may include first and second delivery electrodes configured for insertion in tissue and a direct current (DC) power source operatively coupled to the first and second delivery electrodes. The system further may include a programmable controller operatively coupled to the DC power source, wherein the programmable controller is programmed to direct the DC power source to deliver an electric field between the first delivery electrode and the second delivery electrode at a stimulation to nonstimulation ratio sufficient to cause the cells to migrate within tissue selectively. |
| US09044610B2 |
Systems and methods for providing a distributed virtual stimulation cathode for use with an implantable neurostimulation system
Techniques are provided for controlling and delivering spinal cord stimulation (SCS) or other forms of neurostimulation. In one example, neurostimulation pulses are generated wherein successive pulses alternate in polarity so that a pair of electrodes alternate as cathodes. Each pulse has a cathodic amplitude sufficient to achieve cathodic capture of tissues adjacent the particular electrode used as the cathode for the pulse. The neurostimulation pulses are delivered to patient tissues using the electrodes to alternatingly capture tissues adjacent opposing electrodes via cathodic capture to achieve a distributed virtual stimulation cathode. Various pulse energy savings techniques are also set forth that exploit the distributed virtual stimulation cathode. |
| US09044605B2 |
Beam monitor system and particle beam irradiation system
A charge collection electrode is formed of a plurality of groups each of which is made up of a plurality of adjoining wire electrodes. Further, all the wire electrodes are connected to channels of a signal processing device by the same number of lines as the wire electrodes belonging to one group so that each detection signal outputted from one wire electrode selected from each group is inputted through the same line and so that no two adjoining channels are physically continuous in regard to a certain set of consecutive measurement channels. The signal processing device determines group information indicating to which group the wire electrodes that sent the inputted detection signals belong and outputs a processing signal including the group information to a beam monitor controller. The beam monitor controller determines the position and the beam width of the charged particle beam that passed through the wire electrodes. |
| US09044604B2 |
Radiotherapy system
The present embodiments relate to a radiotherapy system including a radiotherapy module and at least one X-ray imaging module. The radiotherapy module and the X-ray imaging module may be moved independently of each other. |
| US09044603B2 |
Photo-guiding device for a radiotherapy apparatus
A photon-guiding device for a radiotherapy apparatus, consists of a central frustum, made up of a plurality of metal channels, and an outer casing that encloses the central frustum and consists of microchannels. The channels and microchannels have a frusto-conical shape and a common apex. |
| US09044602B2 |
Sequential optimizations for treatment planning
A method and apparatus for radiation treatment planning are described. The method includes receiving a plurality of radiation treatment-planning parameters, and sequentially optimizing the plurality of radiation treatment-planning parameters. |
| US09044596B2 |
Method and apparatus of pulsed infrared light for central nervous system neurons
Certain aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a method of applying infrared neural stimulation (INS) to the central nervous system (CNS) of a target. The methods includes applying a pulsed infrared laser at a stimulation site in the CNS; and evoking responses from a region of interest of the CNS that is at or adjacent to the stimulation site by the pulsed infrared laser. In the method, the pulsed infrared laser penetrates a predetermined penetration depth of the stimulation site. Certain aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an apparatus for applying INS to the CNS of a target. The apparatus includes a generator generating a pulsed infrared laser, which penetrates a predetermined penetration depth of a stimulation site to evoke a response from the CNS, and an optical medium adapted for delivering the pulsed infrared laser at the stimulation site of the CNS. |
| US09044594B2 |
Laser generator for deep tissue laser treatments using low intensity laser therapy causing selective destruction of nociceptive nerves
A laser generator for laser therapy in the treatment of pain conditions by selective destruction of nociceptive or pain nerves, wherein a laser generator that generates a continuous and pulsed laser wavelength between 690 nm to 980 nm that is transmitted fiberoptically through a laser fiber within a spinal needle to contact areas within a body where pain nerves require destruction through optimal absorption of laser energy by pain nerves without affecting other types of nerves or surrounding tissues. |
| US09044589B2 |
Electrode constructions and methods for making the same
Electrode constructions comprise an inner wall structure with an electrode assembly disposed therein that includes a number of stimulation sites disposed at different locations along its length thereby forming an electrode array. An outer insulating layer is disposed over the electrode assembly and comprises a number of openings disposed therethrough at locations corresponding to the stimulation sites to thereby permit direct contact between the stimulation sites and an adjacent external object. |
| US09044588B2 |
Reference electrode apparatus and method for neurostimulation implants
An implantable apparatus and method are provided for use in conjunction with an implantable neurostimulation signal generator that provides an electrical stimulation signal to an active electrode. In auditory stimulation applications, the apparatus includes at least one anchor member having a distal end portion for directly contacting a patient's cranial bone and an electrically conductive portion extending from the distal end portion to a contact location proximal to the distal end portion. An electrical connection line may be electrically interconnected at a first end to the contact location of the anchor member and electrically interconnected at a second end to an implantable auditory neurostimulation signal generator to define a reference electrode. A bracket member may be mounted to a patient's cranial bone utilizing the anchor member, wherein an electrically conductive pathway extends from a first contact location to a second contact location of the bracket member. The first contact location may selectively contact the contact location of the anchor member and the second location of the bracket member may be adapted for electrical interconnection to the electrical connection line. |
| US09044585B2 |
Medical connector
A medical connector capable of allowing, in which a stepped portion is not formed between upper surfaces of a valve and a housing, includes a disc shaped valve member which has a slit formed at a center portion thereof; a housing with a substantially cylindrical shape which sandwiches a circumferential edge portion of the valve member; and an annular ring member which is disposed on an upper circumferential edge of the valve member other than the center portion thereof, wherein the housing has a pedestal which is formed on an inner circumferential surface thereof so as to protrude inward, the valve member being placed on the pedestal, and wherein the valve member is fixed to the inside of the housing by allowing the ring member and the housing to be joined to each other by a swaging process after the valve member is placed on the pedestal in the housing. |
| US09044577B2 |
Expandable spinal sheath and method of use
Disclosed is an expandable percutaneous sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, low cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The sheath is maintained in the first, low cross-sectional configuration by a removable tubular restraint or by structural elements built into the wall of the expandable portion of the sheath. In one application, the sheath is utilized to introduce a formed in place orthopedic fixation rod such as for use in spinal fixation procedures, preparation of a spinal segment, or placement of a vertebral body spacer. The sheath can further comprise structural elements to permit re-collapse of the sheath under fluid pressure following completion of the procedure and prior to removal from the patient. |
| US09044575B2 |
Catheters with enhanced flexibility and associated devices, systems, and methods
A neuromodulation catheter includes an elongate shaft and a neuromodulation element. The shaft includes two or more first cut shapes and two or more second cut shapes along a helical path extending around a longitudinal axis of the shaft. The first cut shapes are configured to at least partially resist deformation in response to longitudinal compression and tension on the shaft and torsion on the shaft in a first circumferential direction. The second cut shapes are configured to at least partially resist deformation in response to longitudinal compression on the shaft and torsion on the shaft in both first and second opposite circumferential directions. |
| US09044572B2 |
Catheter holder
A catheter holder which is compact and which can be relatively easily released while holding the unhoused portion of the catheter stably includes: an attachment portion for receiving or being attached to a portion of a holding tube housing a portion of the catheter, and a plurality of hold portions integral with the attachment portion and holding an unhoused portion of the catheter, which is exposed outside the holder tube. |
| US09044569B2 |
Wound dressing apparatus and method of use
A dressing (2) and an apparatus (1) comprising the dressing, for cleansing the wounds (5) in which an irrigant fluid from a reservoir (12) connected to a conformable would dressing and would exudate from the dressing are moved by a device (18) (which may be a single pump or two pumps) for moving fluid through a flow Path (6, 7, 9, 10) which passes through the dressing with a means for providing simultaneous aspiration and irrigation of the wound, to provide a desired balance of fluid at a controlled nominal flow rate that removes materials deleterious to wound healing, while distributing materials that are beneficial in promoting would healing over the would bed. |
| US09044568B2 |
Method and apparatus for treatment of intracranial hemorrhages
An ultrasound catheter with fluid delivery lumens, fluid evacuation lumens and a light source is used for the treatment of intracerebral hemorrhages. After the catheter is inserted into a blood clot in the brain, a lytic drug can be delivered to the blood clot via the fluid delivery lumens while applying ultrasonic energy to the treatment site. As the blood clot is dissolved, the liquefied blood clot can be removed by evacuation through the fluid evacuation lumens. |
| US09044566B2 |
Advanced supported liquid membranes for carbon dioxide control in extravehicular activity applications
There is disclosed a portable life support system with a component for removal of at least one selected gas. In an embodiment, the system includes a supported liquid membrane having a first side and a second side in opposition to one another, the first side configured for disposition toward an astronaut and the second side configured for disposition toward a vacuum atmosphere. The system further includes an ionic liquid disposed between the first side and the second side of the supported liquid membrane, the ionic liquid configured for removal of at least one selected gas from a region housing the astronaut adjacent the first side of the supported liquid membrane to the vacuum atmosphere adjacent the second side of the supported liquid membrane. Other embodiments are also disclosed. |
| US09044561B2 |
Compact continuous positive airway pressure apparatus and method
A compact continuous positive airway pressure apparatus and method provide a flatter profile and more compact thickness, including a larger lateral dimension in order to be accommodated in conventional luggage designed to stow laptop computers having a smaller aspect ratio of thickness to length or thickness to width. Air tubing may be coiled within a case or coiled as about a spool-like configuration in the base unit of the device. |
| US09044560B2 |
Servo ventilation using pressure drop from baseline
A system and method for delivering a flow of breathing gas to an airway of a patient that includes a gas flow generator and a patient circuit that communicates the flow of gas to an airway of a patient. A sensor measures a characteristic associated with the flow of gas, such as flow rate. A controller determines a first characteristic based on the measured characteristic and a target of the flow of gas to be delivered to the patient. The controller controls the delivery of gas to the patient by 1) providing a baseline positive pressure support amount to the patient and 2) providing a modified pressure support amount by reducing the baseline amount by a given amount if the first characteristic is above the target. The baseline pressure includes a pressure provided during inspiration that is higher than a pressure provided during expiration. |
| US09044556B2 |
Injector
An injector includes a support tube having one end surface to be brought into contact with skin, a movable tube advanceable in the support tube in the direction of the skin, an injection needle communicating with the movable tube, a plunger advanceable in the movable tube in the direction of the skin to introduce medicinal liquid filled in the movable tube to the injection needle, and a sealing material provided at the tip of the support tube and penetratable by the injection needle to penetrate the sealing material. In an initial state, the tip of the injection needle is sealed by the sealing material. |
| US09044553B2 |
Apparatus for injecting a pharmaceutical with automatic syringe retraction following injection
A pharmaceutical delivery apparatus with an automatic syringe retraction following a manually controlled injection. The apparatus includes a housing (28), a syringe carriage (90), a medication-filled syringe (70) held within the carriage, the syringe needle tip being disposed within the housing in a first position and projecting from the housing beyond the housing proximal end for insertion into an injection site in a second position, a manually shiftable plunger (130), means on the carriage and the housing and the plunger for causing the carriage to advance from the first position to the second position and for injecting medicine from the syringe when the plunger is manually plunged proximally toward the housing, and means on the carriage and the plunger for causing the carriage to retract from the second position to a position at which the needle tip is disposed within the housing when the plunger shifts distally. |
| US09044550B2 |
Needle cover with site preparation tip
A needle cover is disclosed which includes a site preparation tip at a distal end of a needle cover body. The tip may be configured with rounded and/or beveled edges in order to facilitate material removal from a cannulation site. The proximal end of the needle cover body may include features to facilitate handling, removal of the needle, and operation of the needle cover in removing material, such as a scab, from a cannulation site. |
| US09044544B2 |
Dialysis machine having auto-connection system with roller occluder
A medical fluid or dialysis system includes an auto-connection mechanism that connects connectors from the supply bags to dialysis cassette ports or cassette supply lines. The system provides for multiple, e.g., four, supply bags, which can be connected to a manifold of the auto-connection mechanism. Tip protecting caps that protect the supply line ends and cassette ports or cassette supply line ends are made to be compatible with the auto-connection mechanism. The auto-connection mechanism removes all the caps and connects the supply lines to the cassette. At least one roller occluder is provided that occludes the supply tubing prior to the tip protecting caps being removed. The roller occludes prevent medical dialysis fluid from spilling out of the supply lines between the time that the caps are removed and connection to the cassette is made. |
| US09044542B2 |
Imaging-guided anesthesia injection systems and methods
Devices and systems for injecting fluids, such as anesthetics, to or near nerve tissue or other targeted anatomical location are disclosed herein. A conduit is generally configured to place the fluid delivery module in fluid communication with a needle that is configured to be inserted into the patient's anatomy. One or more medicaments (e.g., anesthetics) and/or other materials contained within containers (e.g., vials) that are secured to the injection system can be selectively delivered into an anatomy through the needle. Nerve stimulation and/or imaging technologies (e.g., ultrasound) can be used to locate a targeted anatomical location. Aspiration can be used to confirm needle location. An overlay on the imaging display can include, in addition to real-time imaging data, data and other information relating to back pressure at or near the needle tip, volumes or other amounts of fluids delivered by and remaining within the system, stimulation level and/or the like. |
| US09044536B2 |
Reconstituting infusion device
A system and method for a patch-like, self-contained multi-component substance infusion device which provides one or more substantially hidden patient needles which can be placed in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir assembly that includes a rigid bladder portion used in conjunction with a non-distensible bladder film, such as a metallized film. The device can be attached to a skin surface via an adhesive contact and a pressurization system provides a pressure to the contents of a fluid reservoir assembly. Improvements to dry powdered formulations for reconstitution for preferred use in the device are also disclosed. |
| US09044535B2 |
Extracorporeal blood pump with disposable pump head portion having magnetically levitated impeller
A pump drive unit has an openable housing that accommodates a disposable impeller unit which is pre-connected with tubing, while maintaining the tight tolerances and close spacing. A levitation system (magnets and sensors), drive motor and drive magnets, and control electronics are all re-usable and housed within relatively permanent structures. In one embodiment, a hinged top separates the levitating magnets to allow the impeller unit to be captured and retained with positional accuracy and in close proximity to the desired locations when the hinged top is closed. The top may be separated into sections covering unequal arcs to coincide with the organization of the magnetic subcomponents in the upper drive unit housing. |
| US09044534B2 |
Manual breast pump
A breast milk pump that is easier to disassemble for cleaning and is easier to reassemble. It includes a housing, a cup-like displacement chamber a connection channel and a milk collection container releasably attached. A suction bell is connected to an inlet of the connection channel. It further includes a cup-like membrane element and a coupling element and a lever with rotatable mounting. |
| US09044532B2 |
Liquid streaming devices and method of using such devices for treating wounds
A liquid streaming device and method of using same for treating a wound includes a body having a lower surface for application to skin region around the wound to be treated and to conform to the contour of the skin region, and an upper surface facing outwardly when the body is applied to the skin region; a recess formed in the lower surface of the body and encloses the wound when the body is applied to the skin region, and to define a chamber closed on one side by the skin region and the wound, and on the opposite side by the body; an inlet in the body on one side of the recess for introducing a treating liquid into an inlet side of the chamber; and an outlet in the body on another side of the recess for outletting the treating liquid from an outlet side of the chamber. |
| US09044531B2 |
Vascular closure device
A biocompatible material may be configured into any number of implantable medical devices including a vascular closure device. The vascular closure device includes a fibrous structure formed from at least one randomly oriented fiber, the randomly oriented fiber comprising at least one polymer, and at least one agent, in therapeutic dosage, incorporated into at least one of the fibrous structure and the at least one randomly oriented fiber. |
| US09044528B2 |
Article and method of surface treatment of an article
An article comprising: a substrate; and over at least part of a surface of said substrate an outer coating of hydroxyapatite and an intermediate bonding layer bonded to said substrate and to said outer coating, wherein a mechanical interlock is present between said substrate and said outer coating. |
| US09044523B2 |
Reduction of contaminants in blood and blood products using photosensitizers and peak wavelengths of light
Methods and apparatuses are provided for reduction of pathogens in fluids containing blood products. Preferred methods include the steps of adding an effective, non-toxic amount of a photosensitizer such as riboflavin to the blood product and exposing the fluid to light having a peak wavelength. |
| US09044522B2 |
Spray dispenser
A spray dispenser includes a housing for placement in a space. The housing is adapted to receive at least one container having a material therein for emission into the space in response to at least one of a timer, manual actuation and sensory input. The spray dispenser further includes at least three sensors distributed around a perimeter of the housing for the detection of sensory input. |
| US09044513B2 |
Large particle size crystallised maltitol powder, method for preparing same and applications thereof, particularly in chocolate production
A crystallized maltitol powder including a maltitol content greater than 99.5% by weight, characterized by a particle-size distribution by volume, determined by laser granulometry, having less than 20% particles less than 200 μm in size, less than 6% particles less than 100 μm in size, less than 2% particles less than 40 μm in size and a pour value less than or equal to 10 seconds, an aerated density greater than 0.85 g/ml, a compacted density greater than 0.97 g/ml, and a compressibility of less than 17%, and to its use in the pharmaceuticals and above all foods sectors, in particular in the formulation of chocolates or table sweeteners. |
| US09044511B2 |
Peptide
The invention provides a peptide comprising or consisting of FSY and variants thereof, particularly comprising of consisting of the sequence FTY, nucleic acids encoding said peptides and pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compositions comprising said peptide(s) and/or nucleic acids. Also provided is the use of such a peptide in therapy and in vitro methods of ACE-inhibition. |
| US09044510B2 |
Compositions and methods for treating pruritus
The present invention encompasses methods and compositions for alleviating pruritis. The compositions may comprise an analgesic agent. |
| US09044506B2 |
MIR-21 promoter driven targeted cancer therapy
The invention provides a nucleic acid construct comprising a promoter sequence derived from microRNA-21 (miR-21) linked to a nucleic acid sequence encoding an anti-cancer agent, an example of which is a toxin. The constructs of the invention are particularly useful for treating tumors expressing miR-21. |
| US09044505B2 |
Multimeric biotinidase resistant multimodality probes
The present invention describes multimeric multimodality probes. In particular, the present invention discloses (strept)avidin specific multimeric biotinidase resistant multimodality probes. |
| US09044504B1 |
Using configured application pricing to determine end user fees for use of invocable services
Techniques are described for facilitating use of invocable services by applications in a configurable manner. In at least some situations, the invocable services are Web services or other network-accessible services that are made available by providers of the services for use by others in exchange for fees defined by the service providers. The described techniques facilitate use of such invocable services by applications in a manner configured by the application providers and the service providers, including to track use of third-party invocable services by applications on behalf of end users and to allocate fees that are charged end users between the applications and the services as configured by the providers of the applications and services. In some situations, the configured pricing terms for a service specify fees for end users that differ in one or more ways from the defined fees charged by the provider of that service. |
| US09044500B2 |
Composition for xerostomia
An oral care composition is described for use in the treatment or alleviation of the symptoms of dry mouth comprising polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) or a derivative thereof, an anionic mucoadhesive polymer and an orally acceptable carrier or excipient. |
| US09044499B1 |
NS1/2-deficient respiratory syncytial virus and melanoma treatment
The invention discloses an engineered oncolytic respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), NS1 and NS2 gene deficient RSV (ΔNS1/NS2 RSV), and its usage to treat different types of human melanoma by killing cancer cells with in vitro evidences. |
| US09044495B2 |
Nucleic acid ligands to LL37
The present invention is directed to nucleic acid ligands to LL37, methods for producing said nucleic acid ligands, and methods for utilizing said nucleic acid ligands. In one exemplary embodiment, for example, this invention relates to nucleic acid ligands exhibiting high specific binding affinity to LL37 peptides, precursors and/or portions thereof. Further, the nucleic acid ligands may bind competitively with native ligands of LL37 and may also inhibit and/or interfere with LL37 function, such as by binding to LL37. |
| US09044490B2 |
Active ingredient obtained from Cichorium intybus for acting on the barrier function of the skin that is similar to that of vitamin D
A Cichorium intybus root hydrolyzate including oligofructosans and its use as active ingredient designed for use in a composition with cutaneous application, for acting as a substitute for vitamin D on skin cells, and for making it possible to preserve and/or to repair the cutaneous barrier function. Also cosmetic compositions including this active ingredient and to a cosmetic skin-care process. |
| US09044488B2 |
Medicinal cream made using silver sulphadiazine and chitosan and a process to make it
The present invention is directed to a composition for treating bacterial skin infections, along with skin rejuvenation. More particularly, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical cream comprising a biopolymer, and an antibacterial active ingredient. It discloses a composition for treating fungal skin infections along with skin rejuvenation containing a) a biopolymer in the form of chitosan, b) an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) composition in the form of silver sulphadiazine used in treating bacterial skin infections, c) a cream base containing primary and secondary emulsifiers, waxy materials, co-solvents, acids, preservatives, buffering agents, anti oxidants, chelating agents, and humectants and d) water. The active ingredients, namely chitosan, and an anti bacterial agent in the form of silver sulphadiazine, are incorporated in cream base for use in treating bacterial skin infections with allergy & itching, & wounds on human skin involving contacting human skin with the above identified composition. |
| US09044486B2 |
Method for prophylaxis or treatment of feline infectious peritonitis
Provided is a method for treatment and/or prophylaxis of FIP (feline infectious peritonitis) in cats. The method is performed by administering to a cat a composition comprising a therapeutic and/or prophylactic amount of a cysteine protease inhibitor. The cysteine protease inhibitor can be a selective cathepsin B inhibitor. Also provided is a method for inhibiting FIPV (Feline infectious peritonitis virus) replication. The method comprises contacting a cell infected with FIPV with a cysteine protease inhibitor in an amount effective to inhibit replication of FIPV. It is expected the method will be effective for therapy or prophylaxis of FIP in any species of cat and will be effective against any strain of feline coronavirus. |
| US09044478B2 |
Use of 1,4-bis (3-aminoalkyl) piperazine derivatives in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases
Use of 1,4-bis(3-aminoalkyl)piperazine derivatives as defined in formula I or II for the manufacture of a pharmaceutical composition intended for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, related neurodegenerative diseases, developmental diseases or cancer. The instant invention is also directed to some specific 1,4-bis(3-aminoalkyl)piperazine derivatives and pharmaceutical composition including them. |
| US09044470B2 |
Iminosugars and methods of treating viral diseases
Provided are methods of treating or preventing viral infections caused by or associated with a Dengue virus using iminosugars. |
| US09044469B2 |
Opioid receptor ligands and methods of using and making same
This application describes compounds that can act as opioid receptor ligands, which compounds can be used in the treatment of, for example, pain and pain related disorders. |
| US09044465B2 |
Use of analgesic potentiating compounds to potentiate the analgesic properties of an analgesic compound
Described herein are methods for effectively and accurately measuring a patient response upon administration of one or more drugs to the patient. The methods are more sensitive than current methodologies. Also described herein are compositions comprising an analgesic and a sufficient amount of an antihistamine to enhance the analgesic properties of the analgesic. With respect to these compositions, the methods described herein are useful for evaluating qualities of pain, definite improvement, and one or more bodily functions of a subject afflicted with pain. The compositions described herein are useful in improving the quality of pain in a subject or a bodily function of a subject afflicted with pain or definite improvement of a subject afflicted with pain. |
| US09044463B2 |
FSH receptor antagonists
The invention relates to FSH receptor antagonist according to general formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and to a pharmaceutical composition containing the same. The compounds can be used for the treatment and prevention of endometriosis, for the treatment and prevention of pre-menopausal and peri-menopausal hormone-dependent breast cancer, for contraception, and for the treatment of uterine fibroids and other menstrual-related disorders. |
| US09044461B2 |
Transcobalamin receptor polypeptides, nucleic acids, and modulators thereof, and related methods of use in modulating cell growth and treating cancer and cobalamin deficiency
The present invention provides the amino acid and polynucleotide sequences of the transcobalamin receptor, as well as modulators of the transcobalamin receptor. Accordingly, the present invention provides compositions and methods for the treatment and prevention of diseases and disorders associated with cobalamin deficiency, including compositions and methods that promote cobalamin uptake. In addition, the present invention provides compositions and methods for the detection, treatment, and prevention of diseases associated with deregulated cell growth, including, e.g., cancer and autoimmune disorders, including compositions and methods that inhibit cobalamin uptake. |
| US09044460B2 |
Antibodies against epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and uses thereof
Anti-EGFR antibodies, therapeutic compositions comprising combinations of anti-EGFR antibodies, as well as methods for using such antibodies and compositions to treat EGFR-related disorders (e.g., cancers), are disclosed. |
| US09044453B2 |
Long-acting injectable moxidectin formulations and novel moxidectin crystal forms
This invention provides for novel antiparasitic and pesticidal forms of moxidectin, including a long-acting polymeric implant. The resulting compounds may be used in veterinary compositions which are used in treating, controlling and preventing of endo- and ectoparasite infections in animals. |
| US09044450B2 |
Sustained release small molecule drug formulation
An injectable depot formulation includes a biocompatible polymer, an organic solvent combined with the biocompatible polymer to form a viscous gel, and a small molecule drug incorporated in the viscous gel such that the formulation exhibits an in vivo release profile having Cmax to Cmin ratio less than 200 and lag time less than 0.2. |
| US09044445B2 |
Mosaic clade M human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) gag immunogens
The present invention relates, in general, to an immunogenic composition (e.g., a vaccine) and, in particular, to a polyvalent immunogenic composition, such as a polyvalent HIV vaccine containing nucleic acids encoding HIV-1 gag mosaic proteins, and to methods of using same. The invention further relates to methods that use a genetic algorithm to create sets of polyvalent antigens suitable for use, for example, in vaccination strategies. |
| US09044439B2 |
Low dose lipoic and pharmaceutical compositions and methods
Compositions containing low doses of lipoic acid-based active agents and methods for using the same are provided. In particular, compositions containing low dose lipoic acid, lipoic acid derivatives, and lipoic acid seleno-derivatives and are provided to prevent and/or treat ocular diseases. |
| US09044436B2 |
Compositions and methods for the treatment of angiogenesis-related eye diseases
The invention generally relates to compositions and methods of treatment and/or prevention of angiogenesis-related eye diseases using low doses of rhodostomin variants, and in particular, low doses of a fusion protein comprising a rhodostomin variant, wherein the rhodostomin variant is conjugated with a variant of Human Serum Albumin (HSA) where the cysteine residue at position 34 of the HSA amino acid sequence has been replaced with serine. |
| US09044432B2 |
Compositions and methods for cancer detection and treatment
Disclosed herein are compositions and methods for cancer detection and treatment. Compounds that inhibit PRMT5 are contemplated, as are pharmaceutical compositions comprising a therapeutically effective amount of at least one PRMT5 inhibitor. In some embodiments pharmaceutical compositions further comprising at least one HDAC inhibitor are contemplated. Methods of treating disorders in a mammal by inhibiting PRMT5 by administering to a mammal, a therapeutically effective amount of a PRMT5 inhibitor are also disclosed. |
| US09044430B2 |
Allogeneic microvascular tissue for soft tissue treatments
Disclosed are products and methods for treating soft tissue injuries. The provided methods include the production of processed or cryopreserved microvascular tissue. Also provided are products and methods of using processed or cryopreserved microvascular tissue for the treatment of soft tissue injuries. |
| US09044421B2 |
Treating MUC1-expressing cancers with combination therapies
The invention provides method of treating cancers that express mucin 1 (MUC1) by the administration of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K) inhibitors in combination with MUC1-directed cancer therapies. The PI3-K inhibition may advantageously be combined with peptides that inhibit MUC1 oligomerization, or further with other standard anticancer therapies such as chemo-, radio- and surgical therapies. |
| US09044410B2 |
Filament based on hyaluronic acid in the form of free acid and method for obtaining it
The present invention relates to a method for preparing by wet spinning a continuous filament based on hyaluronic acid in free acid form, notably soluble in water. The preparation method according to the invention comprises the following steps: a) preparing a spinnable aqueous solution of hyaluronic acid or of a hyaluronic acid salt, preferably a sodium hyaluronate solution; b) extruding said solution to an extrusion die; c) forming the filament by passing the extruded solution into a bath of acetic acid, concentrated to more than 80%, drawing and drying. The invention also relates to a filament based on hyaluronic acid in free acid form, said filament having swelling properties in water and physiological liquids and moreover being solubilizable in water under certain conditions. |
| US09044408B2 |
Cosmetic use of N-heteroarylbisamide analogs and related compounds
Cosmetic and dermatological compositions comprising N-heteroarylbisamide analogs and methods of using such compositions to impart anti-aging benefits to the skin and/or improve skin conditions resulting from reduced collagen and hyaluronic acid production are disclosed. The N-heteroarylbisamides are believed to stimulate collagen and hyaluronic acid production and restore or maintain homeostasis for these compounds. |
| US09044404B2 |
Melanin modification compositions and methods of use
A method for the modification of melanin distribution, and the composition thereof to modify melanin distribution are disclosed. A method for the reduction of melanin distribution, and the composition thereof to reduce melanin distribution are disclosed. A representative composition comprises 4-ethoxybenzaldehyde and one or more additional active agents as well as a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient. Carriers and excipients may be formulated for topical administration. Compositions may also be formulated for transdermal administration. The compositions may be used for the prevention and treatment of pigmentation disorders, by way of non-limited example, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and others. The compositions may be used for lightening skin. |
| US09044402B2 |
Abuse-deterrent pharmaceutical compositions for controlled release
The present disclosure relates to pharmaceutical compositions that are abuse resistant and may also provide controlled release. The present disclosure also relates to the use of pharmaceutical compositions in the treatment of pain. |
| US09044400B2 |
Cosmetic product
A cosmetic product includes at least: a first anhydrous cosmetic composition including at least coloring particles that are solid at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, the particles being formed from: at least one hydrophilic dyestuff in a content of greater than or equal to 60% by weight relative to their total weight, at least one effervescent system in a content of less than or equal to 20% by weight relative to their total weight, at least one hydrophilic binder, and at least one dispersant that is different from the hydrophilic binder; and a second composition comprising at least one aqueous phase. |
| US09044398B2 |
Abuse-deterrent pharmaceutical compositions of opiods and other drugs
An abuse-deterrent pharmaceutical composition has been developed to reduce the likelihood of improper administration of drugs, especially drugs such as opiods. In the preferred embodiment, a drug is modified to increase its lipophilicity. In preferred embodiments the modified drug is homogeneously dispersed within microparticles composed of a material that is either slowly soluble or not soluble in water. The abuse-deterrent composition retards the release of drug, even if the physical integrity of the formulation is compromised (for example, by chopping with a blade or crushing) and the resulting material is placed in water, snorted, or swallowed. However, when administered as directed, the drug is slowly released from the composition as the composition is broken down or dissolved gradually within the GI tract by a combination of enzymatic degradation, surfactant action of bile acids, and mechanical erosion. |
| US09044397B2 |
Medical devices with galvanic particulates
Implantable medical devices having galvanic particulates are disclosed. The particulate may be coated onto at least part of a surface of the medical device. In addition, the galvanic particulates may be contained in the material used to manufacture the antimicrobial medical devices, or may be embedded into the surface of the medical devices. The present invention also provides novel coating methods and processing methods. The present invention further provides a combination of galvanic particulates with an aqueous gel, a method of making this combination, and a method of treatment using this combination. The devices and compositions may have advantageous characteristics and effects including anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, tissue regeneration promoting, and pain reduction or elimination. |
| US09044393B2 |
Oil-rich O/W emulsion
The present invention relates to a composition for topical application in the form of an oil-in-water emulsion, wherein it contains: a lipophilic phase (A) an emulsifying system (B) an aqueous phase (C), one or more fillers having an oil uptake greater than or equal to 75 ml/100 g, the emulsifying system (B)/lipophilic phase (A) weight ratio ranging from 0.04 to 0.2. This composition is preferably obtained according to the phase inversion (PIT) emulsification technique and it can in particular constitute a cosmetic or dermatological composition. |
| US09044389B2 |
Isoxazoline derivatives as pesticides
The invention relates to new isoxazoline compounds of formula wherein the variables have the meaning as indicated in the claims; in free form and in salt form; and optionally the enantiomers and geometrical isomers thereof. The compounds of formula (I) are useful in the control of parasites, in particular ectoparasites, in and on warm-blooded animals. |
| US09044387B2 |
Vaginal lubricant comprising hyaluronic acid
A vaginal lubricant comprising high molecular weight hyaluronic acid combined with low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and/or chitosan which has improved stability and which has applications in, for example, maintaining and/or promoting sperm motility. |
| US09044378B2 |
Anti-needle stick safety device or system for use with drugs requiring reconstitution
The present disclosure describes a needle guard device or system that can be used with drugs requiring reconstitution. The needle guard is preferably a passive needle guard that can be used during reconstitution without activating the safety mechanism. Following administration of the medication, the needle guard shields a user from inadvertent needle sticks by extending a protective shield over the needle. |
| US09044377B2 |
Pharmaceutical waste disposal assembly
A pharmaceutical waste disposal assembly (10) for disposing of raw pharmaceutical waste comprises a first receiver body (19) and a first reaction agent (287). The first receiver body (19) receives the pharmaceutical waste. The first receiver body (19) includes a receiver bottom (283). The first reaction agent (287) is positioned within the first receiver body (19) and spaced apart from the receiver bottom (283). The pharmaceutical waste reacts with the first reaction agent (287) to change the pharmaceutical waste in one of a chemical and physical manner so that the pharmaceutical waste is unrecoverable. The first receiver body (19) can receive fluid pharmaceutical waste and/or solid pharmaceutical waste. The first reaction agent (287) may include one or more of a denaturant, an emetic and a tittering agent. For example, the first reaction agent (287) may include one or more of quinine, ipecac and denatonium benzoate. |
| US09044371B2 |
Scalable and portable human remains cold storage system
The present invention is a scalable and portable human remains cold storage system having a chiller unit for providing a chilled fluid to a remains chilling bag. A flow divider manifold fluidly communicates with the chiller unit for dispersing the chilled fluid to the remains chilling bag and then channeling warmed fluid back to the chiller unit for re-chilling through a series of supply lines. The fluid flows through a continuous cycle to maintain a desired temperature within the remains chilling bag. |
| US09044367B2 |
Patient weighing and bed exit monitoring
Patient support systems are generally disclosed. An example patient support system may be configured to provide a predictive bed-exit alarm and/or a patient weight. An example embodiment may include a support structure including independently inflatable supports, an inflatable mat beneath the inflatable supports, and pressure detectors associated with the inflatable supports and the inflatable mat. An alarm logic may be configured to initiate a predictive bed-exit alarm sequence upon determining that at least one of the pressures of the inflatable supports is at about its respective unloaded pressure. A patient weight logic may be configured to output a patient weight based at least partially upon a difference between an unloaded pressure and a loaded pressure of the inflatable mat. |
| US09044364B2 |
Portable human transport system
A portable human transport system for use in field medical rescue operations comprising a fully collapsible litter element attached to one or more rescue harnesses via a choke braking system which minimizes unnecessary patient movement during transport. The transport system may be used by a single rescuer or by multiple rescuers. |
| US09044363B2 |
Hand-held vomit and urinal bag holder
A body liquid bag holder comprising a tubular wall defining a hollow space with an open upper end and a lower end longitudinally opposite the upper end; a liquid body bag attachment adjacent to the upper end of the tubular wall; and at least one apertured handle extending through the tubular wall and adapted and configured to receive at least one finger of a hand of a user for holding the body liquid bag holder. |
| US09044362B2 |
Method and apparatus for passive exercise to facilitate breathing, prevent and treat edema and post surgical adhesions, and improve the delivery of inhaled medications
The present invention embraces a method and an apparatus for preventing, treating or improving the efficacy of a variety of conditions and treatments including breathing difficulties, pitting peripheral edema, post-surgical adhesions, efficacy of CPAP/BiPAP and/or the delivery of inhaled medications. The method include raising and lowering the individual's head and feet in a series of steps and performing the steps of raising and lowering the individual's head and feet to substantially match a breathing cycle. The apparatus includes a platform for supporting the individual's body, a capital support mechanism for supporting and moving the platform, a capital drive mechanism, a pedestal support mechanism for supporting and moving the platform, and a pedestal drive mechanism. The method and the apparatus in operation typically move one or more axes of rotation while simultaneously rotating a platform about the one or more axes. |
| US09044357B2 |
Disposable wearing article
A diaper includes front and rear waist members and a crotch member. The front and rear waist members are respectively formed with first narrowly-spaced elastic zones, widely-spaced elastic zones and second narrowly-spaced elastic zones adjacent one to another. Front and rear ends of the crotch member are bonded to respective sides of the front and rear waist members so that the crotch member's front and rear ends may positionally correspond to the second narrowly-spaced elastic zones. Cover sheets are attached to the side of the crotch member to cover the crotch member's front and rear ends respectively. A length dimension of the cover sheet in the longitudinal direction is set to be smaller than those of the front and rear waist members and a length dimension of the cover sheet in the transverse direction is substantially equal to those of the front and rear waist members. |
| US09044356B2 |
Absorbent article having enhanced leakage protection
An absorbent article that is capable of inhibiting leakage of a fluid insult is provided. The absorbent article contains a fluid-shrinkable member, topsheet, and a base pad that includes a baffle and an absorbent core positioned between the topsheet and the baffle. The fluid-shrinkable member extends in a longitudinal direction of the article so that at least a portion of the member is located adjacent to an end of the topsheet. At least a portion of the end of the topsheet remains generally unbonded to the baffle. Thus, when the fluid-shrinkable member contracts upon contacting a fluid insult, the end of the topsheet can rise outwardly from the plane of the absorbent article. The raised area creates a barrier to the leakage of fluids from the center of the article towards its end. In certain embodiments, contraction of the fluid-shrinkable member can also cause an outer region of the topsheet to rise outwardly from the plane of the absorbent article to create a barrier to the leakage of fluids from the center of the article towards the side edge. Notably, because such barriers are generally created only after contact with a fluid insult, their effectiveness is not diminished through use of the article prior to the insult. |
| US09044353B2 |
Process for making a micro-textured web
Processes for making micro-textured webs. The process comprises providing a precursor web; providing a pair of mated forming structures, including a first forming structure and a second forming structure, wherein at least the first forming structure comprises voids, and wherein at least the second forming structure comprises protrusions; and moving the web through a deformation zone of the mated forming structures, wherein the voids of the first forming structure engage with the protrusions of the second forming structure at an engagement position. Discrete three-dimensional elements are formed in the web as the protrusions on the second forming structure engage with the voids on the first mating structure. At least one protrusion has center-to-center spacings of less than about 800 microns with at least three of its adjacent protrusions. |
| US09044351B2 |
Implant and delivery system with multiple marker interlocks
An implant delivery system has one or more interlock assemblies which connect the implant delivery catheter to the implant, an improved inner tubular member and an outer tubular member. The interlock assemblies, improved inner tubular member and outer tubular member cooperate to place the implant in tension during deployment, thereby reducing implant deployment force. |
| US09044349B2 |
Modular prosthetic sockets and methods for making same
The invention relates to a prosthetic socket for a residual limb of the lower extremity or upper extremity of an individual person. The residual limb has particular dimensions and anatomical contours; the prosthetic socket has dimensions and contours that fit the dimensions and contours of the residual limb. The prosthetic socket may also fit in a manner that is biomechanically particularly appropriate for the individual. The prosthetic socket is an assembly of components from groups of components that include (a) struts arranged longitudinally with respect to the residual limb, (b) proximal brim members arranged proximally to the struts and connected thereto; and (c) distal socket members disposed at the distal base of the prosthetic socket. The socket components within these groups may be modular in that they can vary with respect to dimensions and/or contours, and yet have common connecting features that permit assembly of the components together to form the prosthetic socket. |
| US09044348B2 |
Prosthetic device, system and method for increasing vacuum attachment
A prosthetic device, system and method is arranged to generate negative pressure inside a prosthetic socket. A pump mechanism is connected to a prosthetic foot and has a fluid chamber in fluid communication with the prosthetic socket during gait for drawing air from the prosthetic socket in step phase, and expelling air into the atmosphere in swing phase. The vacuum assisted suspension results in secure and intimate suspension as the negative pressure formed inside the prosthetic socket holds a residuum firmly to walls of the prosthetic socket. The vacuum is preferably formed at the distal area of the prosthetic socket, and sealed by a suspension liner having a seal component. |
| US09044345B2 |
Navigated placement of pelvic implant based on combined anteversion by applying Ranawat's sign or via arithmetic formula
A method for placing a pelvic implant including a cup and a femoral stem includes planning at least one of a location of the cup within a pelvis and a location of the stem within a femur such that a combined anteversion between a predetermined cup component and a predetermined femoral stem component satisfies a predetermined combined anteversion. |
| US09044344B2 |
Glenoid baseplate insertion tool
An insertion instrument for inserting an orthopedic implant into a bone and guiding an implant attachment element into the bone comprising: a body having a first end and a second end and a bore extending along a central axis; a fixed arm and a deflectable arm coupled to the body second end, the fixed arm spaced from the deflectable arm forming an attachment element receiving passageway therebetween extending along the central axis, the fixed arm having an implant engaging free end spaced a fixed distance from the central axis; and an actuator mounted on the first end of the body for moving the deflectable arm away from the fixed arm while allowing the attachment element to traverse the passageway. |
| US09044339B2 |
Intervertebral disc prosthesis
The present invention relates to an intervertebral disc prosthesis comprising at least three pieces including an upper plate, a lower plate, and a movable core at least in relation to a plate, wherein it also comprises two anatomic adaptation elements of which each has, on one hand, a surface in contact with a surface of a vertebra and, on the other hand, a face of which at least a part has a surface in contact with at least a part of the plate opposite to which the anatomic adaptation element is mounted, the anatomic adaptation elements being fixed onto the plates via fixation means. |
| US09044338B2 |
Spinal tissue distraction devices
Spinal tissue distraction devices that include a member which has a pre-deployed configuration for insertion between tissue layers and a deployed configuration in which the member, by change of configuration, forms a support structure for separating and supporting layers of spinal tissue. |
| US09044334B2 |
Spinal surgery implants and delivery system
A spinal surgery tool system including an elongated conduit and an implant is disclosed. The implant assumes a straight configuration within the elongated conduit and is deployable from the elongated conduit into a closed or nearly-closed loop configuration for deployment interposed between two tissue surfaces to define an enclosed volume. The conduit and the implant are configured such that, when the implant is deployed in the loop configuration, an opening formed in a proximal portion of the implant forms a contiguous channel with a passageway along the conduit so as to provide a continuous access channel along the elongated conduit into the enclosed volume. |
| US09044333B2 |
Inter-body implantation system and method
A system for implanting an interbody device between adjacent vertebrae comprises an interbody device having a plurality of lobes extending outwardly from a longitudinal rib, and having a relaxed shape approximating the shape of the disc being replaced. An insertion guide is provided having a bore therein from a proximal end to a distal end thereof to accept the interbody device in an unrelaxed shape, wherein the distal end is shaped for insertion into an intervertebral space. The insertion rod may be positioned within the bore of the insertion guide whereby the interbody device is positioned within the intervertebral space by advancing the insertion rod into the insertion guide. |
| US09044330B2 |
System and method for implanting a secondary glenoid prosthesis
A method of implanting a shoulder prosthesis in a scapula of a patient includes the step of placing a guide over a primary glenoid component previously implanted within the scapula of the patient. The method further includes the steps of removing the primary glenoid component from the scapula and preparing the scapula for implantation of a secondary glenoid component, wherein the removing and preparing steps occur simultaneously. |
| US09044325B2 |
Elbow prosthesis and method for use
The elbow prosthesis includes an ulnar component that has a bearing end and a stem. The stem is attached to the bearing end and extends in a distal direction from it. The elbow prosthesis also has a humeral component that includes a holder end and a stem with the stem extending in a proximal direction from the holder end. The prosthesis further includes at least one bearing member that is connected to the holder end with the bearing end being attached within the holder end to allow for rotation and articulation against the at least one bearing member. The bearing end and holder end are attached to each other by a coupling mechanism that includes an opening positioned on the posterior aspect of the holder end and a mating surface on the bearing body. A method of using the elbow prosthesis and a total elbow prosthesis kit are also disclosed. |
| US09044324B2 |
Selectively adjustable arm and shoulder support
A contouring arm and shoulder support is provided that is secured to a supporting and stabilizing belt. The support is interconnected to the belt by an adjustable shoulder component that supports an adjustable arm cuff and provides upward force that moves the patient's shoulder joint out of subluxation. |
| US09044322B2 |
Method and apparatus for use in operating on a bone
An implantable device includes a polymeric body and a metallic first mounting strip connected to a trailing end portion of the body. The body has a leading end portion, a first side surface, a second side surface, an upper surface, a lower surface and a central opening extending through the upper and lower surfaces. The central opening has an internal surface with an internal leading surface, a first internal side surface and a second internal side surface. A first depth is defined between the leading end and the internal leading surface, a first spacing is defined between the first side surface and the first internal side surface and a second spacing is defined between the second side surface and the second internal side surface. The first spacing is substantially the same as the second spacing and the first depth is less than the first spacing. |
| US09044317B2 |
Intraocular lens delivery devices and methods of use
Intraocular lens delivery devices and methods of use. |
| US09044316B2 |
Installation and sealing of a battery on a thin glass wafer to supply power to an intraocular implant
Many modem implantable ophthalmic devices include electronic components, such as electro-active cells, that can leak harmful substances into the eye and/or surrounding tissue. In the implantable ophthalmic devices disclosed herein, electronic components are hermetically sealed to facilitate mechanically connecting components of an implantable ophthalmic device. Furthermore, the device includes at least one battery with a surface comprising electrical contact portions, a housing for the at least one battery, a first wafer bonded to the housing such that the housing and the first wafer form a hermetically sealed surface around the battery, and an electronic circuit electrically connected to the electrical contact portions of the battery. |
| US09044315B2 |
Soft tissue fixation device
A soft tissue fixation device for use in ACL or CrCL reconstruction has a base member provided with a passageway extending perpendicularly from its top surface through its bottom surface. The passageway is sized to allow soft tissue to be inserted through the passageway. The fixation device also includes an affixing member attachable to the base member. The base member has a notched section in the top surface extending from the passageway to a first perimeter section of the base member sized to accommodate at least a portion of the graft. Either surgical grade tissue glue or at least one perpendicularly extending spike is used to secure the base member to the bone. The base member is also provided with a sleeve whose interior wall surfaces form a part of the passageway and is sized to be inserted into the bone opening. The affixing member is provided with a series of teeth members extending downward from its lower surface. The teeth members are positioned so that when the affixing member is attached to the base member the teeth members will extend across and into the notched section of the top surface of the base member. The opposite ends of the affixing member is shaped to fit into aligned notches positioned along perimeter sections of the base member bottom surface for attaching the clip member to the base member. |
| US09044312B2 |
Crimping method
An apparatus is disclosed including a workspace for receiving a stent and a delivery device for the stent; a source for exposing the stent in the workspace to a plasticizing agent, vapor, or moisture, wherein the stent can be reduced in diameter in the workspace while under exposure of the plasticizing agent, vapor or moisture; and a device for reducing the diameter of the stent in the workspace to position the stent on or within the delivery device. |
| US09044310B2 |
Orthotopic artificial bladder prosthesis
An orthotopic prosthesis (1) of artificial bladder includes a balloon (600), two hollow elements (300) for the forced fitting of ureters (6,6′) and a frustoconical element (602) for the connection of the urethra (8) to the prosthesis in the absence of stitches. |
| US09044309B2 |
Adjustable pelvic compression belt and methods for reducing the width of a user's hips
An adjustable pelvic compression belt for the reducing the width of, and/or realigning, a user's hips that is particularly adapted for post-parturition use. The belt may include an inner belt to be wrapped around the user's hips and positioned below the iliac crest. The midpoint of an outer belt may be attached to the inner belt at or near the midpoint of the inner belt. The ends of the outer belt may be adjusted to cinch the inner belt around the hips of the user, thereby compressing the user's pelvic girdle. Thereafter, the outer belt may be incrementally adjusted to further compress the user's pelvic girdle resulting in a narrowing of the user's hips. The belt is preferably worn within two to three months post-parturition or during a period in which relaxin is being administered to the user, and has a strength and thickness that facilitates use under garments. |
| US09044303B2 |
Precise targeting of surgical photodisruption
Techniques, apparatus and systems for laser surgery including imaging-guided surgery techniques, apparatus and systems. |
| US09044294B1 |
Dental suction adapter
A dental suction adapter can include a first tube including a tapered portion and a presenting end, the presenting end being configured to fluidly engage an interior of a mouth, and a second tube including a transition tube connected to the tapered portion of the first tube and a connection taper extending from the transition tube opposite the first tube, the connection taper being configured to be connected to an end of an aspirator tube, wherein the adapter is configured to increase a velocity of air at the presenting end compared to a velocity of the fluid at the aspirator tube. |
| US09044290B2 |
Joint between motor unit and power cords of dental handpiece
The joint of the present invention facilitates connection and disconnection of the motor unit to and from the power cords in the hose, and makes the connecting area between these two parts as compact as practicable. In the joint, the motor-unit-side connector is arranged projecting from the connecting-end opening of the motor casing 10, whereas the power-cord-side connector is arranged offset from the connecting-end opening of the end cap 20, so that the two connectors are connectable inside the end cap 20. |
| US09044285B2 |
Compound hinged rod bender
A compound rod bender includes a first distal arm, a second distal arm, a rotating and translating barrel, and a compound hinge. The barrel includes a plurality of bending surfaces configured to be selectively positioned to contour a rod. The barrel is positioned on a pivot point between the first and second distal arms. The compound hinge includes at least one additional pivot point configured to increase a bending force when the rod is contoured. |
| US09044284B2 |
Intervertebral insert system
A system for delivering fluid to a space between two vertebrae is provided. The system includes a tool and an insert configured to be implanted in the space between two vertebrae. The tool includes a proximal end, a distal end and a structure at the distal end configured to be coupled to the insert. The tool further includes a first opening located near the proximal end of the tool, a second opening located near the distal end of the tool, and a passage extending between the first opening and the second opening. The first opening, the passage and the second opening provide a fluid delivery path from the proximal end to the exterior of the tool near the distal end. The second opening is positioned relative to the structure such that fluid is permitted to be delivered from the tool directly into the space between the two vertebrae. |
| US09044279B2 |
Device and method for expanding the spinal canal with spinal column stabilization and spinal deformity correction
Spinal canal expansion through pedicle lengthening in combination with spinal column stabilization, to treat spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, kyphosis, scoliosis or a major spinal rotational deformity, with or without a spinal fusion. A device or implant that includes a pedicle lengthening implant to decompress (expand) the spinal canal, and a bridge to connect two or more pedicle lengthening implants and/or pedicle screws or bone anchors to achieve simultaneous spinal stabilization across one or more vertebral segments. The bridge across the vertebral segments can include a longitudinal member, such as a plate or rod. The pedicle lengthening implant is originally made, or can be modified to, connect to the longitudinal member. Spinal deformity can be manipulated, through operation of one or more pedicle lengthening implants in respective vertebral segments, to improve a relative relationship between the respective vertebra segments, the longitudinal member then fixating the vertebral segments into a multi-level spinal construct. |
| US09044278B2 |
Inter spinous process spacer with compressible core providing dynamic stabilization
The described devices are useful in the treatment of spinal disorders and pain. In particular, the described devices are designed to stabilize a portion of the spine by restoring and maintaining spacing between two adjacent vertebrae. The devices are compressible spacers that may be situated between the spinous processes of those adjacent vertebrae. The described inter spinous process spacers also allow a range of spinal motion and mimic the motion of a normally functioning spine. |
| US09044275B2 |
Cervical spine stabilization system with extendable plates
A spine stabilization system having a base plate having a plurality of screw holes and a plurality of corresponding screw locking mechanisms. The present invention also provides an extension plate having a plurality of screw holes and corresponding screw locking mechanisms. The extension plate is dimensioned and configured with an extension portion, the extension portion having a screw hole and a screw locking mechanism and a finger portion having a connection element and to couple with the base plate. The base plate is provided a graft window having edges, wherein at least one of the edges being configured to receive and connect with the connection element. |
| US09044274B2 |
Bone screw system
A bone screw system is presented. The bone screw system has a fixation element, a receiving element, coupling element, and a compression element. In one aspect, the fixation element is adapted to engage a bone and has a head portion and a threaded shank portion. |
| US09044272B2 |
Multiplanar bone anchor system
The present teachings provide one or more surgical implements for repairing damaged tissue, such as in the case of a spinal fixation procedure. A bone anchor is provided. The anchor can include a bone fastener. The bone fastener can include a head and a second end adapted to engage an anatomy. The bone fastener can extend along a longitudinal axis. The anchor can also include a coupling arrangement coupled to the head of the bone fastener so that the bone fastener is rotatable about the longitudinal axis to define a first plane of motion. The anchor can further include a saddle, which can be coupled to the coupling arrangement. The saddle can be movable relative to at least one of the bone fastener and the coupling arrangement to define a second plane of motion. |
| US09044265B2 |
Retractable safety knife
A retractable safety knife has a hollow handle with an opening at an end thereof, a pusher that is movably disposed within the handle and is operable by a user, and a blade that is connected with an end of the pusher. When the pusher moves from a blade-retracted position to a blade-extended position, the blade extends outwardly from the handle opening and rotates from a nested position to an extended position. |
| US09044257B2 |
Frame mapping and force feedback methods, devices and systems
Methods, devices, and systems for controlling movement of a slave manipulator by an operator controlling a master manipulator in a way that the motion of that slave manipulator can be presented via a display to the operator such that the displayed position of the slave manipulator is intuitive to the operator, regardless of the actual position and orientation of the slave manipulator. Methods, devices, and systems relating to force feedback associated with medical robotic procedures. |
| US09044251B2 |
Flushable chuck
In a chuck for medical applications, including a housing having a passage extending axially therethrough with clamping elements movable supported in the housing together with a drive structure for moving the clamping element into and out of a clamping position for the engagement and release of a rotating tool, a space is provided around the drive structure for moving the clamping elements and flushing passages are provided for flushing out the space around the drive structure and, in the process, cleaning all the components of the chuck. |
| US09044249B2 |
Distal femoral trial with removable cutting guide
Various embodiments of the present invention provide a distal femoral trial that allows a surgeon to cut the central box geometry of a distal femur using an implant-shaped trial. The trial includes a cutting guide that is removable from the trial and adjustable with respect to the trial. The guide is intended to control the depth and direction of the cutting instruments used to prepare the femur for a posterior stabilized implant. |
| US09044246B2 |
Methods and devices for capturing and fixing leaflets in valve repair
The present invention provides methods and devices for grasping, and optional repositioning and fixation of the valve leaflets to treat cardiac valve regurgitation, particularly mitral valve regurgitation. Such grasping will typically be atraumatic providing a number of benefits. For example, atraumatic grasping may allow repositioning of the devices relative to the leaflets and repositioning of the leaflets themselves without damage to the leaflets. However, in some cases it may be necessary or desired to include grasping which pierces or otherwise permanently affects the leaflets. In some of these cases, the grasping step includes fixation. |
| US09044244B2 |
System and method for detection of metal disturbance based on mutual inductance measurement
Apparatus and method for detecting metal disturbance during a medical procedure includes a probe having an insertion tube, a joint, and a joint sensor for sensing a position of the insertion tube. The joint sensor comprises first and second subassemblies having coils. A processor is used for measuring force using the joint sensor, and having a pre-established baseline value stored therein. The processor detects changes in a position of the insertion tube by applying current to one coil and measures a signal output by a remainder of the other coils. The signal output by a remainder of the coils defines a pickup value, wherein the processor compares the pickup value to the pre-established baseline value and identifies presence of metal when the pickup value is outside of a range of the pre-established baseline value. |
| US09044243B2 |
Surgical cutting and fastening device with descendible second trigger arrangement
A nested trigger assembly for a surgical instrument may generally comprise a first trigger and a second trigger, wherein the first trigger and the second trigger are movable together on a first stroke of the nested trigger assembly, wherein the second trigger is configured to be biased away from the first trigger after the first stroke and before a second stroke, and wherein the second trigger is configured to be moved toward to the first trigger during the second stroke. A surgical instrument may generally comprise a shaft comprising a proximal end and a distal end, a handle extending from the proximal end, wherein the handle comprises a gripping portion, and a nested trigger assembly extending from the handle. The nested trigger assemble may comprise one of a separable trigger assembly and a divisible trigger assembly. |
| US09044239B2 |
Multiple clip deployment magazine
An apparatus for deployment of multiple hemostatic clips, comprises a shaft connected to a handle and a control linkage operatively connected to the handle in combination with a magazine disposed at a distal end of the shaft, the magazine containing a plurality of clips arranged in a chain rotatable within the magazine, wherein a proximal-most one of the clips is coupled to the control linkage, a distal portion of the magazine being contoured to permit opening of a distal-most one of the clips during a distal stroke of the control linkage, and to assist closing and locking of the distal-most clip during a proximal stroke of the control linkage, the magazine including an expanded chamber sized to allow opening in any rotational orientation of a next clip located immediately proximal to the distal-most clip to a degree sufficient to disengage the distal-most clip. A method for deploying multiple hemostatic clips, comprises positioning a distal end of a magazine containing a clip chain over selected target tissue and actuating a control link of the magazine in a distal stroke to open and distally translate a distal-most clip of the clip chain in combination with orienting the open distal-most clip in a desired orientation to grasp the target tissue and actuating the control link in a proximal stroke to close and lock the distal-most clip over the target tissue. The control link is further actuated in the proximal stroke to move a next clip immediately proximal to the distal-most clip into an expanded portion of the magazine sized to allow the next clip to open to a degree sufficient to release the distal-most clip regardless of a circumferential orientation of the next clip. |
| US09044238B2 |
Electrosurgical monopolar apparatus with arc energy vascular coagulation control
A system for delivering electrosurgical energy is provided. The system includes an electrosurgical instrument comprising at least one electrode and an electrosurgical generator coupled to the electrosurgical instrument. The electrosurgical generator includes an output stage configured to generate electrosurgical energy; and a controller coupled to the output stage, the controller configured to control the output stage to output electrosurgical energy at a predetermined power level to generate an arc between the at least one electrode and tissue and to output electrosurgical energy at a predetermined current level once the arc is generated to sustain the arc. |
| US09044237B2 |
Securement structure for joining medical device parts
A securement structure is positioned inside a channel of a first medical device to facilitate securement of the first medical device to a second medical device. The first medical device may be a ligation banding cap, and the second medical device may be an endoscope. The securement structure is adapted to be compressed between the second medical device and the first medical device to secure them together. This allows parts of different sizes to fit together. |
| US09044236B2 |
Coring knife
A coring knife can be used to make a circular incision. The coring knife includes an abutment that is inserted into an initial slit through the heart wall. The abutment can be inserted into the slit while oriented in a direction that minimizes its insertion profile. After insertion, the abutment is reoriented by turning a key so that its abutment surface faces toward a circular cutting edge of the coring knife on the other side of the heart wall. The circular incision through the heart wall is made by pressing the circular cutting edge of the coring knife against the abutment. |
| US09044234B2 |
Methods and devices for applying closed incision negative pressure wound therapy
Disclosed herein are devices, systems and methods for using such devices and systems for treating incisions and wounds. In an aspect, disclosed is a device having a generally planar tension relief module and a flexible sealant structure sized to cover the tension relief module, the flexible sealant structure comprising a lower adhesive surface. The tension relief module includes a conduit structure having a plurality of support structures on an upper surface of the conduit structure and at least one opening extending through the conduit structure from a lower surface to the upper surface. At least a portion of the conduit structure is adapted to be aligned with a longitudinal axis of the incision. The tension relief module also includes opposing adhesive structures coupled to the conduit structure. The lower adhesive surface of the flexible sealant structure and the upper surface of the conduit structure form a flow pathway. |
| US09044228B2 |
Fastener system comprising a plurality of fastener cartridges
A surgical fastening instrument can comprise a handle and an end effector, wherein the end effector can comprise a first jaw comprising a first cartridge attachment portion and a second jaw comprising a second cartridge attachment portion, and wherein one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other of the first jaw and the second jaw. The surgical fastening instrument can further comprise a first cartridge that is insertable into the first jaw and attachable to the first cartridge attachment portion and, in addition, a second cartridge that is insertable into the second jaw and attachable to the second cartridge attachment portion. In various embodiments, the first cartridge can comprise first fastener portions which are engageable with second fastener portions in the second cartridge. |
| US09044223B2 |
Implant insertion systems and methods of use
An implant insertion system includes an implant, such as a surgical mesh, having at least one insertion tip secured to the implant. Each insertion tip has a tapered distal end, a proximal end, a base extending proximally from the tapered distal end, and a central lumen formed in the base having an opening facing the proximal end of the insertion tip. The system includes an insertion device having an outer shaft and a latching assembly provided at a distal end of the outer shaft that is insertable into the opening of the central lumen for selectively locking the insertion tip to the latching assembly. The latching assembly has an outer dimension that is changeable from expanded state for locking the insertion tip to the latching assembly to a non-expanded state for unlocking the insertion tip from the latching assembly. |
| US09044220B2 |
Delivering pelvic floor repair implants
A medical device for the delivery of pelvic floor repair implants within a pelvic region of a body includes a handle, an elongated shaft member, and a head. A method of delivering a pelvic floor repair implant in a transvaginal implant procedure includes inserting and deploying at least a portion of the medical device into a pelvic region of a body. |
| US09044219B2 |
Gas-enhanced surgical instrument with mechanism for cylinder puncture
A surgical instrument for providing an ionized gas to a surgical site includes a receptacle for at least one cylinder of pressurized surgical gas and a frame having a port near the distal end for emitting the surgical gas. A passageway extending between the receptacle and the port delivers the surgical gas to the port. A puncture assembly for rupturing a seal on at least one cylinder to release the surgical gas into the passageway includes at least one bank for storing mechanical energy which may include at least one spring. An actuator is operable to actuate the at least one bank release the mechanical energy. At least one puncture pin is operatively coupled to the at least one bank such that energy released by the at least one bank is effective to move the at least one puncture pin relative to at least one cylinder to rupture the seal. |
| US09044216B2 |
Biopsy needle assembly
A needle assembly and delivery system for biopsying tissue of a patient includes a flexible biopsy needle, a cannula for receiving and supporting the biopsy needle, and a guide assembly which defines at least one guide assembly for receiving, guiding, and orienting the flexible biopsy needle and cannula through an angle of at least forty degrees through the needle guide assembly to a fixed orientation and position for biopsying tissue of the patient. The biopsy needle includes a sampling section which has smooth or rounded edges, a bending section which has a first circular cross-section, and a body portion proximal of the bending section which has a second circular cross-section larger than the first circular cross-section. The flexible biopsy needle, cannula, and guide assembly may be used with a biopsy ultrasound delivery system which includes an ultrasonic probe and a biopsy gun. |
| US09044212B2 |
Fluid flowing device and method for tissue diagnosis or therapy
A device and method for safely securing a multilumen device to a tissue, organ or solid tumor within the body of a human during a diagnostic or therapeutic procedure is described. The device is capable of securing the tumor by touching or piercing its surface and providing a coolant to the distal tip. Cooling the tip forms a cryogenically induced region that tightly binds the tip to the tumor, temporarily sealing the entry-track of the instrument. The device further provides at least one injecting/aspirating lumen that can dispense or aspirate a fluid within the tumor, and an outer sheath or guide. Such construction allows injecting part or whole volume of the tumor while the cryogenically induced bond prevents back-flow of the injected substances through the entry-track. |
| US09044210B1 |
Power morcellation in a protected environment
A power morcellation system, apparatus, and methodology. Structurally, the device includes a sturdy, pliable (e.g., able to be inserted and retracted through a 10-15 mm morcellator port), distensible, waterproof/watertight retaining bag/pouch/carrier to be deployed into the pelvic cavity of the subject. The device further includes a plurality (e.g., three (3)) of port tube channels extending outwardly from the bag, wherein the interior of each channel is in communication with the interior of the bag. Each channel has an open end (opposite from the end that terminates in the bag) through which a laparoscopic/robotic camera and other instruments (e.g., camera, control instrument) may pass. A smaller tube channel also extends outwardly from the bag and can be suited as an insufflation port channel, among other uses. The bag also includes a large opening surrounded by an elastic drawstring for receiving the specimen to be removed within the bag. |
| US09044208B2 |
Surgical instrument
The invention relates to a surgical instrument, in particular a minimally invasive surgical instrument, with a working unit, and with a control unit which has two control elements that can be separated from each other for cleaning and/or disinfection.It is proposed that the surgical instrument has a connecting device, which is provided for connecting the working unit and the control unit to each other in such a way that they can be separated for cleaning and/or disinfection. |
| US09044204B2 |
Apparatuses for supporting and monitoring a condition of a person
A person monitoring system is operable to predict the onset of an adverse condition of a person. The system receives first information corresponding to a feature of a person support apparatus and second information corresponding to a physiological characteristic of the person. The system calculates a condition score as a function of the first and second information. In some instances, the system alerts a caregiver if the condition score exceeds a predetermined threshold. Alternatively or additionally, the person monitoring system alerts a caregiver when a person supported on a person support apparatus is regaining consciousness by monitoring one or more of a change in position, a heart rate, and a respiration rate. A person monitoring system that monitors a person's quality of sleep and presents information concerning the quality of sleep to one or more interested parties is also disclosed. |
| US09044203B2 |
Device for attaching to lumen wall
A fixing device for attaching to a lumen wall, the device including a base (18) and a fixing mechanism (5) fixed on the base (18). The fixing mechanism (5) includes a housing (5a), at least a set of clamping brackets (3), and a rotating shaft (7). A bracket hole (3b) is formed on each clamp bracket (3), and the rotating shaft (7) passes through the bracket hole (3b) and fixes each set of the clamping brackets (3) on the housing (5a) of the fixing device. |
| US09044202B2 |
Sensor guide wire
Sensor guide wire for intravascular measurements of physiological variables in a living body or of external signals, which sensor guide wire has a proximal region, a distal sensor region and a tip region, the sensor guide wire comprises a core wire having a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sensor guide wire, and a sensor element arranged in the distal sensor region, the sensor element has a sensitive portion for measuring the physiological variable and to generate a sensor signal in response to said variable. The sensor element has an essentially planar main surface and has its maximal extension in the plane of the main surface, and a thickness perpendicular to the plane of the main surface, wherein the sensor element is arranged in an essentially perpendicular relation to said core wire with regard to the planar main surface of the sensor element. |
| US09044201B2 |
Wireless communication of physiological variables using spread spectrum
The present invention relates to a system and a method of measuring a physiological variable in a body. A basic idea of the present invention is to measure a physiological variable in a body by means of employing a sensor (314) which is arranged to be disposed in the body for measuring the physiological variable. The sensor must be provided with a supply voltage in order to be operable. Therefore, a control unit (322) disposed outside the body provides this supply voltage to the sensor. The control unit also receives, from the sensor, via a wired connection (311), signals that represent the physiological variables that are measured. The control unit is arranged with a communication interface (401, 701) and a modulator (301) for wireless spread spectrum communication of the measured physiological variables for presentation purposes. |
| US09044200B1 |
Noble metal surface treatment to improve adhesion in bio-compatible devices
A method involving forming a sacrificial layer on a working substrate; forming a first bio-compatible layer on the sacrificial layer such that the first bio-compatible layer adheres to the sacrificial layer, wherein the first bio-compatible layer defines a first side of a bio-compatible device; forming a conductive pattern on the first bio-compatible layer, the conductive pattern comprising a metal; mounting an electronic component to the conductive pattern; forming a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) on the conductive pattern by contacting the conductive pattern with a functionalized sulfur compound or a functionalized selenium compound; forming an adhesion layer on the SAM by contacting the SAM with an adhesion promoter; forming a second bio-compatible layer over the first bio-compatible layer, the electronic component, and the conductive pattern having the adhesion layer, wherein the second bio-compatible layer defines a second side of the bio-compatible device; and removing the sacrificial layer to release the bio-compatible device from the working substrate. The first bio-compatible layer defines a first side of a bio-compatible device. The second bio-compatible layer defines a second side of the bio-compatible device. |
| US09044196B2 |
Automated heart rate detection for 3D ultrasonic fetal imaging
An ultrasound system and method provide a workflow to acquire 3D images of the fetal heart gated by a synthetic heart gating signal. An ROI is defined in an ultrasound image which delineates the fetal heart. The ultrasound system is controlled to automatically estimate the fetal heart rate from echo signals received from the ROI. When the system has acquired a stable synthetic heart rate signal, an indication thereof is given to the user and the user then commands the system to acquire 3D fetal heart images for a number of fetal heart cycles which are gated using the synthetic heart rate signal. |
| US09044194B2 |
Thoracic diagnosis assistance system and computer readable storage medium
Provided is a thoracic diagnosis assistance system. The system includes, an imaging unit, an extracting unit, a region dividing unit, an analysis unit and a display unit. The extraction unit extracts a lung field region from the plurality of successive image frames generated by the imaging unit. The region dividing unit divides the lung field region extracted by the extraction unit into a plurality of sub-regions and correlates the sub-regions among the plurality of image frames. The analysis unit performs an analysis of the sub-regions to calculate an inspiratory feature quantity and an expiratory feature quantity and to calculate a value of a ratio of the calculated inspiratory feature quantity to expiratory feature quantity and creates a histogram of the calculated ratio value. The display unit displays the histogram. |
| US09044192B2 |
System and method for non-invasively measuring tissue viscoelasticity using surface waves
A system and method for assessing tissue health based on the viscoelastic properties of the tissue. Surface waves are induced in the tissue and their propagation characteristics are then measured. The tissue viscoelastic properties are then determined from the surface wave measurements using a surface model. |
| US09044183B1 |
Intra-video ratings
A system and method is provided for receiving and displaying voting data with respect to online hosted videos. Viewers vote on portions within various videos stored in an online video hosting website. Voting data can represent different types of votes, such as unipolar, bipolar, or categorical. The prior voting data, including that submitted by other viewers, can be displayed in a number of ways, such as gradations of color, or charts such as bar graphs. The voting data may be associated with demographic categories, such as a voter's age, sex, or political affiliation. Further, a video may be selectively played to display portions of most interest to given demographic categories, as indicated by voting patterns of those categories. |
| US09044182B2 |
Sensors for detecting substances in bodily fluids
A system is disclosed that extracts bodily fluid to a reaction chamber for monitoring a substance or property of the patient fluid. In one embodiment, a pump is used to advance the sample of bodily fluid through a filter to produce a filtrate. Another pump advances filtrate into the reaction chamber, while another pump advances reactant into the reaction chamber. A sensor in communication with the reaction chamber determines a concentration of nitric oxide or one of its metabolic products. Methods are also disclosed. |
| US09044174B2 |
Adaptive optics apparatus, adaptive optics method, and imaging apparatus
An adaptive optics apparatus includes an aberration measuring unit that measures an aberration caused by a subject's eye, the aberration being measured on the basis of returning light that returns from the subject's eye; an aberration correcting unit that performs aberration correction in accordance with the aberration measured by the aberration measuring unit; an irradiation unit that irradiates the subject's eye with light corrected by the aberration correcting unit; and an adjusting unit that maintains a correction characteristic of the aberration correcting unit when the subject's eye moves out of a predetermined area. |
| US09044173B2 |
Implanted device x-ray recognition and alert system (ID-XRAS)
This system comprises a method and software application that, when used in conjunction with digital radiographic imaging software, automatically locates and identifies surgically-implanted devices located inside of a patient and instantly notifies the healthcare provider viewing the digital radiographic image of clinically pertinent information regarding the device, such as, but not limited to the manufacturer, model, and manufacturer notifications, alerts, and/or recalls. In the case of pacemakers and defibrillators, this system also identifies defects in pacemaker and/or defibrillator leads. |
| US09044164B2 |
Device for swept source optical coherence domain reflectometry
A device for swept-source optical coherence domain reflectometry (SS OCDR) on moveable samples, particularly human eyes, for obtaining A-scans, having a measuring range according to the sample length and having a laser light source which can be adjusted by a main wave number k0 and at least one receiver for the light dissipated from the sample, wherein the sample is illuminated on the sample surface by a measurement beam having a diameter D by way of a coupling device. The light source has a spectral line width of δk<168 m−1 and the adjustment of the light source is carried out in τ<44 s/(D*k0). |
| US09044163B2 |
Endoscope apparatus
The endoscope apparatus includes an illumination unit for irradiating at least three kinds of illumination light having different wavelengths including standard light, first and second reference light onto a biological object, a switching unit for periodically switching the illumination light, an imaging unit for capturing image data by the illumination light in each imaging frame, and an acquisition unit for acquiring biological function information from the captured image data. The irradiation order of illumination light is switched at least in order of the first reference light, the standard light and the second reference light, a standard image by the standard light and reference images by the reference light are acquired, and the biological function information is calculated based on the standard image and the reference images. |
| US09044157B2 |
Assessment system of speech sound listening, and method and program thereof
In an exemplary assessment system of speech sound listening, an output section presents a speech sound to a user as an auditory stimulation; a positive component determination section determines whether a positive component appears in an event-related potential of an electroencephalogram signal of the user in a range from 600-900 ms from a starting point, the starting point being a point in time at which the speech sound is presented, and outputs an assessment result as to whether the user is listening to the speech sound with strife or not; and a negative component determination section determines whether a negative component appears in the event-related potential in a range from 100-300 ms from a starting point, the starting point being the point in time at which the speech sound is presented, and outputs an assessment result as to whether the user is annoyed by the speech sound or not. |
| US09044155B2 |
Stimulus artifact removal for neuronal recordings
A method is described for processing an electrical stimulation response measurement waveform signal measured in response to delivery of a selected electrical stimulation signal to neural tissue. The electrical stimulation response measurement waveform signal contains a stimulus artifact and one or more neuronal action potentials. The electrical stimulation signal is selected based on satisfying a cost function comparison between at least one stimulus artifact component and a plurality of known neuronal action potential waveforms. The electrical stimulation response waveform signal is then processed using a source separation algorithm to remove the stimulus artifact component. |
| US09044153B2 |
Random sinogram variance reduction in continuous bed motion acquisition
Random sinogram variance is reduced in continuous bed motion acquisition. The randoms are modeled as a product of transverse singles efficiencies. The random sinogram is assumed to be a smooth function in the axial direction, collapsing the parameterization for estimating the transverse singles efficiencies into a single, conceptual ring. By solving the product, the mean random values are used to smooth the randoms in image reconstruction with less noise and artifacts. |
| US09044150B2 |
Biometric monitoring device with heart rate measurement activated by a single user-gesture
A biometric monitoring device having a heart rate sensor for measuring various biometric information is provided. In some embodiments, the biometric monitoring device allows the person to take and/or display a heart rate reading by a simple user interaction with the device, e.g., by simply touching a heart rate sensor surface area, moving the device in a defined motion pattern, or clenching the fist. Some embodiments of this disclosure provide a biometric monitoring device that allows a person to get a quick heart rate reading without removing the device or interrupting their other activities. Some embodiments provide heart rate monitoring with other desirable features such as feedback on data acquisition status. |
| US09044149B2 |
Heart rate data collection
One innovative aspect is directed to heart rate data collection. In some implementations, a circuit includes a light detector for generating a first electrical signal based on received light. The circuit includes a switching circuit, having a first and a second configuration, configured to receive a first voltage signal based on the first electrical signal and to switch among the first and the second configurations. The circuit includes first and second sampling circuits for sampling a value of the first voltage signal when the switching circuit is in the first configuration and second configurations, respectively. The circuit includes an ambient light cancellation circuit for generating a current signal to counter a first component of the first electrical signal when the first switching circuit is in the first configuration. |
| US09044148B2 |
Method and a system for cardiac monitoring
A method for monitoring a heart of a patient, the includes receiving signals indicative of cardiac activity of the patient during a monitoring period; and processing the signals and providing monitoring results in response to a result of the processing; wherein the monitoring results comprise information indicative of: (a) the heart rate of the patient during the monitoring period; (b) at least one first time period in which the heart rate of the patient exceeds a first threshold; and (c) at least one second time period in which the heart rate of the patient exceeds both the first threshold and a second threshold. |
| US09044142B2 |
Surgical optical systems for detecting brain tumors
A method of detecting a brain tumor includes administering indocyanine green to a living body; exposing brain tissue in the living body; irradiating the exposed brain tissue with excitation light of indocyanine green; obtaining an image based on fluorescence of the excited indocyanine green in the brain tissue, wherein the image is obtained using an endomicroscope; and identifying portions of the brain tissue corresponding to the brain tumor based on the image. |
| US09044140B2 |
Photodynamic therapy with spatially resolved dual spectroscopic monitoring
An instrument for photodynamic therapy applies treatment light from a dye laser, white light, and ultraviolet fluorescence excitation light from an LED onto a lesion and surrounding areas in a time-multiplexed manner. The reflected white light is analyzed in a spectrometer to determine a correction for the dynamic optical spectral properties of the patient's tissue. Light emitted by fluorescence from the lesion and the surrounding areas is analyzed in another spectrometer, and the results are corrected in a computer, using the correction. An optical switch has been developed for the instrument, using a bistable solenoid and a sled. |
| US09044139B2 |
Flexible tube for endoscope, and method for manufacturing the same
A flexible tube 10 is constituted of a flexible tube material 14 and a covering layer 15 of two-layers of constitution having an inner layer 17 which covers the entire peripheral surface of the flexible tube material 14 and an outer layer 18 which covers the entire peripheral surface of the inner layer 17. The covering layer 15 is two-layer molded to have the inner layer 17 and the outer layer 18, by supplying two kinds of resins into one molding die at the same time, with being overlapped each other. As resins for molding the inner layer 17 and the outer layer 18, a combination of the soft resin and the hard resin is selected to be in conditions that the difference at the 100% modulus value, which is an index of a hardness after molding, is equal to or more than 10 MPa, and that the difference of the melt viscosity in the molding temperature of 150° C. to 200° C., which is an index of the fluidity in the molten state, is equal to or less than 2500 PaS. |
| US09044137B2 |
Wireless communication terminal
A wireless communication terminal may include a power supply unit that supplies direct current (DC) power, a wireless communication antenna, a wireless communication module that transmits communication data to an external terminal through the wireless communication antenna, an activation signal output unit that converts an electromagnetic wave received through the wireless communication antenna into DC power, and generates and outputs an activation signal if the converted DC power is greater than or equal to a predetermined power value, and a control unit that performs control such that the DC power is supplied from the power supply unit to the wireless communication module if the activation signal is output from the activation signal output unit. |
| US09044136B2 |
Wearable mini-size intelligent healthcare system
A system and method for the wearable mini-size intelligent healthcare system, comprising one or multiple vital signal sensors, activity sensors, a real-time detection and analyzing module for continuous health monitoring, adjustable user setting mode with the adaptive optimization, data-collecting capability to record important health information, smart audio outputs of audio beep and speech advice to the user through audio path and audio interface, preset and user confirmable alarm conditions via wireless communications network to the appropriate individual for prompt and necessary assistance. The system uses noninvasive monitoring technology for continuous, painless and bloodless health state monitoring. The system also works through the short range RF link with carry-on PDA or cell phone for displaying health information, making urgent contact to support center, doctor or individual, or for information transmission with a healthcare center. |
| US09044134B2 |
Dishwasher
A capable of efficiently disposing nozzles spraying washing water is provided. A dishwasher includes a washing tub, an upper rack, a lower rack and a middle nozzle. The washing tub forms a space in which dishes are washed. The upper rack has the dishes loaded thereto, being provided inside the washing tub. The lower rack is provided below the upper rack, being provided inside the washing tub. The middle nozzle sprays washing water toward the upper and lower racks, being provided on side walls of the washing tub. |
| US09044133B1 |
Debris cleaning system
A debris cleaning system for safely and efficiently cleaning debris such as broken glass from a variety of surfaces. The debris cleaning system generally includes a plurality of magnets which extend out of both its upper and lower ends and an absorption material covers its lower end. The adhesion member is secured to the housing through interaction of the magnets with metallic strips on the lower end of the housing. The adhesion composition, which includes a metallic component, is sprayed onto the debris to be cleaned. The housing is then utilized to run the adhesion member over the debris, wherein the absorption material and magnets act to attract and retain the coated debris to the adhesion member for disposal. |
| US09044126B2 |
Surface treating appliance
A surface treating appliance includes first, second and third cyclonic separating units. The first cyclonic separating unit includes a perforated shroud having a lower wall and a side wall, and a first dust collector extending beneath the lower wall of the shroud. The second cyclonic separating unit includes a plurality of second cyclones arranged in parallel, and a second dust collector located beneath the dust outlets of the second cyclones and having an upper extremity lying 10 mm beneath the lowest of the dust outlets. The third cyclonic separating unit includes a plurality of third cyclones arranged in parallel, and a third dust collector located beneath the dust outlets of the third cyclones and having an upper extremity lying 10 mm beneath the lowest of the dust outlets. The volume of the second dust collector is greater than the volume of each of the first and third dust collectors. |
| US09044122B2 |
Actuator
An actuator includes first and second means for shifting, and those means are pistons, located within first and second components respectively, such that when the actuator is fitted over toilet lid each piston extends in substantially opposite directions. The first shifting means is activated upon the sensor detecting a predetermined condition, such as a hand passing over the sensor and shifts the position of the seat from the raised position such that the center of gravity is shifted past vertical, thereby causing the seat to shift to the lowered position. The second shifting means is triggered after a predetermined time, for example one second, to cause the toilet seat lid to be moved from the raised position such that the center of gravity is shifted past vertical, thereby causing the lid to shift to the lowered position to be substantially flush with the toilet seat. |
| US09044119B2 |
Reservoir level sensing
A coffee machine has a single serve function that utilizes a reservoir level sensing mechanism so that a single serve dose of water can be dispensed into the grounds regardless of the water level in the machine's reservoir. |
| US09044118B2 |
Brewing unit for coffee brewing
A brewing unit used in a beverage maker is adapted to make a beverage based on an interaction between a beverage extract and an extracting fluid, and includes a chamber that can receive and accommodate a quantity of beverage extract, a lid that is movable between an open and closed state for opening and closing the chamber, and an outlet for letting out fluid from the chamber. The outlet includes a first outlet passage and restrictor for restricting an outlet flow in the first outlet passage, and a second outlet passage. The brewing unit further includes a controller device for interacting with the lid so as to block the outlet flow to the second outlet passage when the lid is in the closed state and to allow a free outlet flow from the chamber to the second outlet passage when the lid is in the open state. |
| US09044116B2 |
Drink preparing machine with holding and warming device
A device and method for warming a cup in a machine for preparing a hot drink or beverage involving transmitting by conduction a part of the surface heat of the heating body to a cup holder. The heating body is also used to heat water in the machine. The device and method also at least partially dampen a vibration transmissible by the heating body to the surface of the cup holder. |
| US09044115B1 |
Shower curtain enhancer
A shower curtain enlarger apparatus that includes a flexible rod that is constructed and arranged for positioning between opposed side walls of a shower stall, and a pair of end pieces attached respectively to opposed ends of the flexible rod. The combined length of the flexible rod with the attached end pieces is constructed and arranged to have a length greater than the distance between the opposed side walls of the shower stall. The flexible rod is positioned between the opposed side walls by means of bending the flexible rod to fit between the opposed side walls and with the bending being directed away from the shower stall to enhance an inner use space in the shower stall. Other versions employ a hinge member or a wedge member. |
| US09044109B2 |
Container for plants that can be filled with water
A container, in which a quantity of water can be accommodated, includes a base, a peripheral wall that is upright with respect to the base, a water barrier provided within the peripheral wall and extending towards the base, an insertion opening in which the stem or stems of plant products, such as flowers, can be accommodated in such a way that these have access to the quantity of water, as well as retaining member for retaining the stems. The retaining member is designed for holding the stems pressed down in the direction of the base under preloading. |
| US09044107B2 |
Modular rack system for displaying flat articles
A modular rack system for displaying flat articles. In one aspect, the invention comprises: a plurality of racks, each rack comprising: a floor for supporting a flat article, the floor having a front, a rear and lateral sides; a front retaining portion extending upward from the floor at the front of the floor; first and second lateral retaining portions extending upward from the floor along the lateral sides of the floor; at least two support members extending from the rear of the floor that engage a vertical wall and support the rack in a cantilevered manner and oriented so that the floor slopes downward and away from the vertical wall; and the racks mounted to the vertical wall in a stacked assembly so that an upper rack in the stacked assembly rests atop the first and second lateral retaining portions of a lower adjacent rack in the stacked assembly. |
| US09044106B1 |
Storage and retrieval system and methods
An illustrative embodiment of a storage and retrieval system may include a storage assembly supported by a plurality of frame members. The storage assembly may include a plurality of storage members that may be engaged with one another such that each storage member may selectively move along a predetermined path. The exterior of the storage and retrieval system may include a front exterior panel that may be configured with an access port therein for interacting with items positioned on the storage members. The exterior may also include a first and/or second display, scanner, and one or more door flaps to allow/prevent access to the interior of the storage and retrieval system through the access port. |
| US09044101B2 |
Climate controlled sleeping space
An apparatus includes a frame forming a sleeping space. The apparatus includes a climate control system connected to the frame, the climate control system having a hot side and a cold side, wherein the cold side is positioned toward the sleeping space. The apparatus includes an insulating canopy supported by the frame. The insulating canopy includes an outer layer, a separator layer, a reflective layer, and an inner layer. The separator layer provides an air cavity that reduces conductive heat transfer between the surface layer and the reflective layer. |
| US09044096B2 |
Center-foldable seat back, seat with the same, and method of manufacturing center-foldable seat back
A center-foldable seat back has a seat back upper part that can be tilted forward relative to a seat back lower part. A trim cover is provided, sewn along the entire periphery at the mutual contact position of an upper and lower cover, the pulled-in state is modulated by cloth pieces, thereby preventing wrinkles. The seat back is provided with the trim cover in which one cloth piece one side edge of which is sewn to the ends of the lower and upper cover is provided at least in the central portion on the inside of the trim cover, the cloth piece is extended inward, the other side edge thereof is sewn to a fastener, the central portion on the back side is extended inward and sewn to the fastener, and the central portion on the inside of the trim cover is sewn to open and close by one fastener. |
| US09044095B2 |
Activation device for motion activated furniture
A release handle is adapted to activate a portion of a chair or sofa, such as a foot rest or a recline mechanism. The handle allows a user to selectively control the movement of functions of the chair. The handle is coupled to a cable, which is used to release a mechanism on the chair, such as the footrest. The handle includes a grip that is coupled to an annular tube at one end. The annular tube is telescopically coupled to a guide tube. The annular tube protects the cable within the annular tube to prevent wear to the cable and to prevent breakage. |
| US09044092B1 |
Hook attachment sling chair
Some embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for a novel hook attachment sling chair. The hook attachment sling chair simplifies the manufacture and assembly of sling chairs affording easier construction and assembly. The sling chair comprises a chair frame having two pairs of legs with a first cross member coupled to a first pair of legs and a second cross member coupled to a second pair of legs, the first cross member includes a pair of hooks fastened to an angular surface of the first cross member, the second pair of legs each includes an attachment point configured to receive a fastener bolt. A sling seat section has two frame rails each frame rail includes a pin protruding from an interior side of the frame rail configured to attach to the hooks fastened to the first cross member wherein each frame rail includes another attachment point having a threaded section configured to receive the fastener bolt and secure each frame rail at the another attachment point to the attachment point at each of the second pair of legs. |
| US09044086B1 |
Modular storage rack system
A storage rack unit includes a pair of spaced planar end plates, an intermediate stabilizer panel and a plurality of dowels which extend between the two end plates. Each of the end plates has spaced dowel end receiving holes, each of whose longitudinal axes are angled with respect to a line perpendicular to the plane of each end plate. The angles of the holes in the first end plate are different from the angles of the holes in the second end plate. The provision of these angled holes in the two end plates allows the construction of each storage rack unit without the use of ancillary fasteners. Several such storage rack units can be joined together to form a composite storage rack system. |
| US09044081B2 |
Object carrying device
An object carrying device comprising a body harness and an object carrying portion disposed on the body harness, the object carrying portion comprising a support member for supporting an object thereon. |
| US09044080B2 |
Shoulder strap carrying device
The invention is a shoulder strap carrying device, system, and method. The carrying device has swappable containers that connect to the straps via fasteners under the arms of the wearer. The containers enable the user to organize and easily access the personal items being carried. More particularly, the invention is a “Figure 8” shoulder strap that loops around a wearer's arms and has fasteners substantially beneath a wearer's underarms to hold multiple swappable containers, cases, and utility devices for storing various personal items. |
| US09044078B2 |
Cosmetic material application container
A cosmetic material application container which can stably and easily draw a cosmetic material line, and is structured to discharge a cosmetic material in a filling region from a pen point portion formed by a soft material. A pen point portion shape is three-dimensionally formed by structuring a flat column body by a flat base end shape and a leading end shape provided closer to a leading end side than the base end shape, setting such an arcuate curve as to incline while heading for a base end side from one intersecting point between an outer edge of the leading end shape and a long axis (L2) and bulge to the leading end side, on a plane including a long axis (L1) and the long axis (L2), and cutting the flat column body by a cut surface passing through the curve. |
| US09044077B1 |
Eyelash holder
An eyelash holder includes a base and at least one eyelash mount disposed on the base. The at least one eyelash mount includes an eyelash positioning edge and at least one holding means disposed on the eyelash positioning edge. The at least one holding means includes a first end connecting to the eyelash positioning edge and a second end separating from the eyelash positioning edge with an eyelash holding space. |
| US09044076B2 |
Rotatable hair implement
A hair implement, such as a comb, brush, or pick, is disclosed that includes a handle section containing a ring insert within an annular opening in the handle section. When the hair implement is not in use, it may be held on a user's finger and rotate out of the way without the need for the user to disengage his or her finger from the hair implement, such as when using other hair implements. |
| US09044075B2 |
Container
The present disclosure provides an apparatus including a first chamber containing an eye-mountable device. The apparatus may also include a second chamber containing an aqueous solution. The apparatus may also include a membrane positioned between the first chamber and the second chamber. The membrane may be configured to rupture based on application of a force to the apparatus. The ruptured membrane may allow the aqueous solution to engage with the eye-mountable device. The apparatus may also include a lid to seal one or more of the first chamber and the second chamber. |
| US09044071B2 |
Lock device
A lock device includes a first lock part, a second lock part, which can be arranged on the first lock part in a fastening direction and is connected to the first lock part in a closing state, and an actuating element, on which the second lock part is movably arranged. In the closing state the second lock part is held on the first lock part via the actuating element, and the second lock part acts with the actuating element such that in a loaded state, when force is acting on the second lock part relative to the first lock part along the fastening direction, the actuating element is rigidly connected to the first lock part and holds the second lock part on the first lock part, whereas in an unloaded state the second lock part can be detached from the first lock part by actuation of the actuating element. |
| US09044067B2 |
Article of footwear having shock-absorbing elements in the sole
A shoe is provided having a sole that provides excellent shock absorption without reducing support and stability or such a shoe that is generally light in weight. The shoe may have a sole for supporting a foot of a wearer, and a shoe upper adjacent the sole. The sole may include an upper force-distribution plate portion, a lower force-distribution plate portion spaced below the upper plate portion, a lateral shell connecting the upper and lower force-distribution plate portions, and at least one resilient shock-absorber element in contact with and between both the upper and lower plate portions. |
| US09044066B2 |
Article of footwear with a removable foot-supporting insert
An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper that defines an interior void, a sole structure secured to the upper, and a foot-supporting insert that is positionable within a lower area of the void and removable from the void. A system having a protrusion and an indentation may be utilized to, for example, secure the insert within the void. As an example, a protrusion may extend outward from a surface of the void, and the insert may define an indentation in a corresponding location and with a corresponding shape. When the insert is positioned within the void, the protrusion will extend into the indentation. The locations, shapes, numbers and overall configuration of the protrusion and indentation may vary significantly. |
| US09044062B2 |
Convertible shoe
A convertible shoe enables people to easily modify a single shoe to form a total of at least three different shoe types. This reduces the bulkiness/amount of a traveler's luggage and reduces the burden of traveling without limiting a traveler's options of available shoe types. The convertible shoe can include a front removable shoe upper to convert between an open-toe and a closed-toe shoe. The convertible shoe can further include a rear removable shoe upper to convert the shoe between closed-back shoe and a sandal-type shoe. The sandal-type shoe can include a removable strap to convert between a strapped and a strapless sandal-type shoe. |
| US09044054B2 |
Shoe-mounted pants cuff protective device
A shoe-mounted pants cuff protective device includes a central hub, a plurality of legs, and a plurality of slideable sleeves. Each leg has a hole at its proximal end for pivotably mounting a leg on a pin formed in the central hub. Each sleeve has an interior lumen with an opening that receives a leg such that the leg is slideable within the lumen. Each of the sleeves has positioning holes allow the sleeve to be fastened in one of several locations along the leg to adjust the distance from the central hub to the distal end of the sleeve. Each of the sleeves includes a spring clip extending outwardly from the distal end of the leg. The clip is capable of releasably securing a length of pants cuff fabric between the clip and its corresponding sleeve. |
| US09044052B2 |
Unitary garment
The invention generally relates to a unitary garment comprising a top bodice element having an elastic waistband, secured to a bottom trouser element having an elastic waistband. The two separate waistbands extend around the lower periphery of the top bodice element, and the other waistband extending around the upper periphery of the bottom element. The waistbands are aligned, contiguously front to back with respect to each other and are secured to each other in their contiguous state by any suitable means. The top bodice element contains means in the front or the back of the garment to allow the wearer an open through which to don the garment and it has excess fabric material neck to waist to provide a blouson effect. |
| US09044051B1 |
Slimming pant or skirt for a woman
A pant (or other woman's bottom, such as a pair of shorts, a skirt, Capri pants, etc.) includes an attached “control top panel.” This control top SHAPEWEAR panel is designed to help smooth, trim and shape the woman's mid-section or torso area, thereby making her figure more shapely, trim and/or attractive, as well as physically measuring smaller in circumference where the panel is compressing. The control top panel is attached to the top of the pants and covers the woman's mid-section and/or areas of the torso. |
| US09044049B2 |
Tobacco pouch product
A pouched tobacco product includes a lined pouch material of a web and a water-soluble liner adjacent the web and a tobacco component at a moisture content of 10 to 15% contained within the lined pouch material. The water-soluble liner is interposed between the web and the tobacco component. The liner preferably reduces staining of the web by the tobacco component. Additionally, the liner may include a flavorant. |
| US09044045B2 |
Antibrowning compositions
Antibrowning compositions for food products, for example fresh produce, are disclosed herein. These antibrowning compositions can also, for example, be used to prevent growth of bacteria, yeasts and molds in the food products. Methods for using the antibrowning compositions are also disclosed herein. |
| US09044044B2 |
Immune activation of green tea hydrolysate and method for preparing food composition containing the same
Disclosed are an immune-boosting food composition containing a green tea hydrolysate as an active component, and a method for preparing the same. |
| US09044043B2 |
Balanced fat composition and use thereof in a liquid nutritional composition suitable for enteral feeding
This invention relates to a balanced fat composition and use thereof in a liquid nutritional composition, in particular suitable for tube feeding. This invention further relates to said liquid nutritional composition for providing enteral nutrition to patients in need thereof, in particular for providing a complete enteral nutrition, in particular for providing a long-term enteral nutrition. More specifically, the balanced fat composition and the liquid nutritional composition comprising said balanced fat composition comprises specific amounts of linoleic acid (LA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), at least one medium chain fatty acid (MCFA), and at least one mono-unsaturated fatty acid (MUFA). The invention relates further to a method for providing enteral nutrition to patients in need thereof comprising administering an effective amount of said liquid nutritional composition comprising the balanced fat composition according to the invention. |
| US09044035B2 |
Remelted ingestible products
A method of preparing an orally ingestible hard boiled product, comprising: i) heating a sugar material to a first temperature sufficient to liquefy the sugar material; ii) cooling the liquefied sugar material to provide a cooled sugar material having a solid or semi-solid form; iii) heating the cooled sugar material to a second temperature, which is lower than the first temperature; iv) combining the sugar material with one or more temperature sensitive ingredients before, during, or after said heating step iii), but after said cooling step ii), such that an intimate mixture of the second liquefied sugar material and the one or more temperature sensitive ingredients is provided; and v) cooling the intimate mixture to form an orally ingestible product. Orally ingestible hard boiled products prepared according to this method are also provided. |
| US09044029B2 |
Mass-distributing device and moulding device comprising a mass-distributing device of this type
According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a mass-distributing device (18) for supplying a mass of foodstuff starting materials suitable for consumption, in particular a meat mass, to one or more mold cavities (44) of a molding member (16) for molding three-dimensional products (46) from said mass. The device (18) comprises a housing (30), which has an open side (38) which can be turned towards the molding member, in which a flexible abutment element (40) for the housing to abut the molding member is arranged. In the housing (30), a through-passage (34) for said mass extends from an introduction opening (32) in the housing (30) to a discharge (36), which discharge opens at the open side (38) of the housing (18). Pressure means (50) are provided in order to position the flexible abutment element (40) under pressure against the plane (35) of the molding member (16) comprising one or more mold cavities (44), the pressure means (5) being designed to set contact pressures in separate zones (72, 74, 76, 78) of the flexible abutment element (40). |
| US09044022B2 |
Twin sprial oven
The invention relates to a treatment device for treating food products using conditioned treatment fluid, comprising a housing (10), which defines a treatment space (18) and is provided with an inlet (12) for introducing products to be treated into the treatment space, and an outlet (14) for discharging treated products from the treatment space, with the treatment space (18) being in open communication with the environment, a conveying means (16, 20) for conveying the food products from the inlet through the treatment space to the outlet, with the conveying means (16; 20) between the inlet and outlet following a helical conveying path (26) comprising several turns one above the other, circulation means (40) for circulating treatment fluid through the treatment space, conditioning means (56; 57) for conditioning the treatment fluid. |
| US09044021B2 |
System and method for preparing naan bread
A method and system for preparing naan bread is provided. A conveyor oven is used to bake flattened and pre-shaped naan bread loaves. The conveyor oven uses high temperature gas heat to bake the naan, imparting traditional characteristics such as the slightly smoky or scorched appearance. The oven interior is preferably lined with stone, granite, clay or porcelain to enhance baking and provide traditional flavor. |
| US09044014B2 |
Herbicidal compositions
The present invention relates to compositions for protecting crop of useful plants from the harmful effects of certain pyridine derivative herbicides as well as methods for protecting crops of useful plants from the harmful effects of these herbicides and methods for combating weeds in crops of useful plants. |
| US09044010B2 |
Stable aqueous suspension concentrate for delivery of UV-labile water-insoluble biocides
A stable, aqueous suspension concentrate which includes a solid polymeric dispersant comprising one or more anionic polymeric dispersing agents, optionally a co-dispersant which preferably is a homopolymer and/or a copolymer of a heterocyclic vinyl lactam, preferably in a wt. ratio of 0.1:1 to 1:0.1, a UV-labile, water-insoluble biocide active, and a UV-blocker or UV-absorber to stabilize said active upon storage and/or exposure to sunlight or UV radiation. |
| US09044008B2 |
Spray oil and method of use thereof for controlling turfgrass pests
A paraffinic spray oil and a method of using the spray oil for controlling turfgrass pests is disclosed. The spray oil comprises paraffinic oil and a quick break emulsifier, which is formulated as an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion for use. The paraffinic oil and emulsifier are present in a weight ratio ranging from about 95:5 to about 99.95:0.05, and preferably from about 98.5:1.5 to about 99.9:0.1. When applied to turfgrass, the O/W emulsion quickly releases the oil phase upon application to the turfgrass to contact pests thereon. When provided at sufficient paraffinic oil dosages, generally at least about 0.5 gal oil/acre and preferably in the range of about 0.5 gal/acre to about 60 gal/acre, the spray oil is effective in controlling a variety of turfgrass pests, particularly insect and fungal pests, with little or no phytotoxic effects. Further, use of the spray oil as indicated for controlling turfgrass pests also enhances the growth of turfgrass. |
| US09044007B2 |
Device and method for ambient storage of fresh/frozen tissue sections via desiccation
The present invention discloses a method for storing and preserving previously sectioned, snap-frozen, and desiccated biological tissue samples at ambient conditions. Also disclosed are devices and systems for ambient storage of biological tissue sections, and methods for forming said devices. |
| US09044004B2 |
Foot snare triggering device
The foot snare triggering device of the present invention is designed to be used with a foot snare, and comprises a trigger plate assembly, having a tension adjustment means which allows the trigger plate assembly to pivotally yield to vertical pressure. A trigger mechanism has a trigger end set within said plate assembly and a mechanism end attached to an extension mechanism, and a snare attachment port located within the trigger mechanism for releasably securing a foot snare by moving longitudinally when the trigger mechanism is engaged by pressure to said plate assembly allowing a foot snare to be released from the snare attachment port after triggering said device. A pan is pivotally connected by a hinge to the plate underside distal to the pan tension adjustment means. The pan has a trigger mount located adjacent to the trigger assembly connection through which the trigger mount engagingly receives the trigger mechanism. |
| US09044003B2 |
Over-center trigger mechanism for animal cage traps and conversion kit
A trigger mechanism for an animal cage having a door that can be closed by linking to hanging bait comprises a frame for mounting to that cage. The frame includes a first support pivotally mounted at its base end, a second support fixedly mounted substantially perpendicular to the frame; and a door actuation bar pivotally mounted to the frame at one end. That actuation bar connects to a latch on the cage door and pulls on that latch to close the door when an animal inside the cage engages bait hanging from a strike arm pivotally mounted at one end to the second frame support. A link arm pivotally mounted at one end to the first frame support connects at its opposite end to an intermediate point along the strike arm with varying levels of tension. A kit for converting animal cages from floor pedal actuation to this hanging bait improvement is also disclosed. |
| US09044002B2 |
Method of controlling harmful arthropod, composition, and electrostatic spray device
A method of the present invention, for controlling a harmful arthropod employs an ester compound which has a specific structure. Accordingly, with the method of the present invention, it is possible to control a wide variety of harmful arthropods effectively, without carrying out any heating process (e.g., a smoking process) for spraying the composition or any pressure process (e.g., a gas-pressure process or a mechanical pressure process) for spraying the compositions. |
| US09043996B2 |
Genetically modified major histocompatibility complex animals
The invention provides genetically modified non-human animals that express a humanized MHC II protein (humanized MHC II α and β polypeptides), as well as embryos, cells, and tissues comprising the humanized MHC II protein. Also provided are constructs for and methods of making the genetically modified non-human animals. Methods of using the genetically modified non-human animals to study various aspects of the human immune system are provided. |
| US09043992B2 |
Method and system for object localization
This document describes a method and system for object localization. In accordance with the method an object (1) is illuminated by at least one first type of signal, and response of the signal is detected. In accordance with the invention the object (1) equipped with a transponder (2, 3) backscattering the first type of signal, the transponder (2, 3) is illuminated also by a second type of signal affecting to the backscattering frequency of the transponder (2, 3), and the backscattered signal from the transponder (2, 3) is detected in order to localize the object. |
| US09043991B2 |
Enhanced bolster structures, systems, and processes
An enhanced bolster, such as connectable to a pet bed, comprises an outer cover having an inner volume, and a mechanism for attachment to a pet bed. The inner volume may be filled directly with stuffing, or may include an inner stuff sack. While the stuffing may comprise a wide variety of stuffing items, the enhanced bolster or bolster stuff sack may preferably be filled with a plurality of items supplied by the owner, and may preferably inherently include a scent that is desirable or comforting to the intended animal, e.g. the scent of a known person or animal. For embodiments having permeable bolster stuff sacks, the entire bolster stuff sack assembly may preferably be laundered, e.g. washed and dried, as a unit, i.e. with the stuffing retained. The enhanced bolsters may preferably be provided without stuffing, but with instructions on how to stuff the enhanced bolster. |
| US09043989B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing clean air to animal enclosures
A method and apparatus for economically filtering air into swine farms and other animal enclosures are provided. Advantageously, the invention substantially reduces the risk to airborne transfer of disease into animal enclosures. In one embodiment, a method for providing clean air to an animal enclosure includes providing an animal enclosure having an animal containing volume for containing a plurality of animals, removing air from the internal volume via at least one exhaust fan, and filtering air being pulled into the enclosure by the at least one exhaust fan using a fully sealed filter, the fully sealed filter having a particle separation sufficiently efficient to prevent detection of live (PRRS-) virus downstream of the filter, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of samples collected with a cyclonic aerosol collector. |
| US09043988B2 |
Milking box with storage area for teat cups
In certain embodiments, a milking box comprises a storage area comprising a retractable hose, a hose lift belt, a cup holder base, a cup holder, and a cup holder bracket. The retractable hose couples to a cup and suspends the cup in the storage area. The hose lift belt couples to the retractable hose and is operable to retract the retractable hose. The cup holder base defines an aperture through which the retractable hose is positioned. The cup holder comprises a rimmed structure adapted to hold an attachment end of the cup. The cup holder is coupled to the cup holder bracket. The cup holder bracket is operable to open and close such that when closed, the rimmed structure of the cup holder aligns with the attachment end of the cup that is suspended from the retractable hose. |
| US09043976B1 |
Soybean variety XBP44005
A novel soybean variety, designated XBP44005 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP44005, cells from soybean variety XBP44005, plants of soybean XBP44005, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP44005. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP44005 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XBP44005, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP44005, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XBP44005. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP44005 are further provided. |
| US09043974B1 |
Maize inbred PH1DN2
A novel maize variety designated PH1DN2 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1DN2 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1DN2 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1DN2 or a locus conversion of PH1DN2 with another maize variety. |
| US09043968B1 |
Maize inbred PH1JPB
A novel maize variety designated PH1JPB and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1JPB with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1JPB through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1JPB or a locus conversion of PH1JPB with another maize variety. |
| US09043967B2 |
Soybean variety A1037446
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated A1037446. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety A1037446. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety A1037446 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety A1037446 with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09043957B2 |
Movable door apparatuses and methods for a combination grass discharge and mulching lawnmower
Apparatuses and methods for changing the mode of operation for a lawnmower can include a door assembly having a shutter door pivotably movable with respect to a discharge opening of the lawnmower between a closed position in which it obstructs the discharge opening and an open position in which the discharge opening is substantially unobstructed. A handle can be positioned adjacent to an upper surface of the mower deck of the lawnmower and coupled to the shutter door, wherein the handle is pivotably movable with respect to the upper surface to cause movement of the shutter door. A locking member can be positioned between the handle and the upper surface, the locking member being movable with respect to the handle and operable to retain the handle in one of a plurality of predetermined positions corresponding to the closed positions and open position of the shutter door. |
| US09043956B2 |
Method for operating an agricultural working machine
A method for operating an agricultural working machine that is configured with working assemblies, a control/regulating unit having a display unit and at least one interface for communication in order to control and/or regulate the working assemblies. In the method, an emotional state of an operator is recognized during an interaction with the working machine via the at least one interface and the operating mode of the working machine is adapted to the emotional state of the operator. |
| US09043954B2 |
Extendable drive shaft for auto header hookup
An agricultural harvester (100) comprises a self-propelled vehicle (102); a feederhouse (104) disposed on the front of the self-propelled vehicle (102); a driveshaft (114), the driveshaft (114) having a proximal end supported for rotation on the feederhouse (104) about an axis of rotation, the driveshaft (114) having a distal end that is extendable from the proximal end; and a first coupler (116) fixed to the distal end, said first coupler (116) being configured for engagement with a second coupler (118), said second coupler (118) being disposed on an agricultural harvesting head (106) to drive a reciprocating knife of the agricultural harvesting head (106). |
| US09049811B2 |
Circuit cooling
An apparatus (e.g., an audio amplifier) includes a housing cover configured to be fitted to a heat sink for enclosing a circuit board therebetween. The apparatus also includes a contact member formed separately from and mounted to the housing cover to cause electrical components on the circuit board to engage with the heat sink when the housing cover is fastened to the heat sink. The contact member includes first and second projections connected to each other and configured such that displacement of the first projection in a first direction causes a proportional displacement of the second projection in a second direction opposite the first direction. |
| US09049810B2 |
Device mounter head and device mounting method using the same
A device mounter head and a device mounting method using the device mounter head are provided. The device mounter head includes: a cylinder block unit including at least one cylinder in which a piston unit moving along the at least one cylinder is disposed; a pressure control unit which controls pressure inside and outside the at least one cylinder so that the piston moves along the at least one cylinder based on the controlled pressure; and a nozzle which is connected to the piston unit, and includes an inlet exposed to an atmosphere outside the cylinder block unit and a nozzle communication vent connected to the inlet and provided with the controlled pressure, wherein the inlet is configured to suck, grab and release a component using the controlled pressure. |
| US09049805B2 |
Thermally-conductive particles in printed wiring boards
A printed wiring board (PWB) can be fabricated with enhanced thermal characteristics that can enable the use of higher performance electronic components and/or a smaller packaging configuration. A substrate layer of the PWB includes a matrix material and optional reinforcing fibers embedded in the matrix material. The matrix material and/or the reinforcing fibers may include thermally-conductive particles such as nanodiamonds that increase the thermal conductivity of the substrate layer. Holes may be formed through the substrate layer for receiving and/or electrically connecting electronic components. The thermally-conductive particles are sized sufficiently small to allow the formation of the holes through the substrate layer using conventional equipment and processes such as drilling. The PWB may also include a protective coating that comprises thermally-conductive particles. The thermally-conductive particles described herein can reduce the need for heavy and bulky metal thermal layers in a manufacturing-friendly manner. |
| US09049798B2 |
Multilayered ceramic electronic component and board for mounting the same
There is provided a multilayered ceramic electronic component including a ceramic body having a hexahedral shape, including a dielectric layer, satisfying T/W>1.0 when a length thereof is L, a width thereof is W, and a thickness thereof is T, and having first and second main surfaces, first and second end surfaces, and first and second side surfaces, a plurality of first and second internal electrodes, and first and second external electrodes electrically connected to the first and second internal electrodes, wherein the first and second external electrodes are electrically connected to the exposed portions of the first and second internal electrodes, include first and second head parts formed on the first and second end surfaces, and first and second band parts formed on the first and second main surfaces, and are not formed on the first and second side surfaces. |
| US09049796B2 |
Client connection device for UPS system
A client connection device for a UPS system includes a frame on which a main input distribution unit, a bypass input distribution unit, a battery distribution unit, and an output distribution unit are provided, in which the main input distribution unit and the bypass input distribution unit are arranged on the frame with being opposite to each other up and down, the output distribution unit and the battery distribution unit are arranged on the frame on different sides of the main input distribution unit and the bypass input distribution unit, and the battery distribution unit is side placed near the main input distribution unit and the bypass input distribution unit. A client connection device for a UPS system is provided which can be of a compact structure, be space saving, and be convenient for space operation. |
| US09049795B2 |
Rolled copper or copper-alloy foil provided with roughened surface
Provided is a rolled copper or copper-alloy foil having a roughened surface, the rolled copper or copper-alloy foil subjected to roughening treatment with copper fine grains wherein a copper base plating layer is provided between the copper roughened layer and the rolled copper or copper-alloy foil. An object of the present invention is to provide a roughened rolled copper-alloy foil having fewer craters, the presence of which is a serious disadvantage unique to a rolled copper-alloy foil having a roughened surface. In particular, provided is a rolled copper or copper-alloy foil in which the development of craters caused by inclusions present in or near a surface of the base material can be controlled. |
| US09049794B2 |
Wiring substrate and method for manufacturing the wiring substrate
A wiring substrate includes an insulation layer including a thermosetting resin and a reinforcement member having plural first fiber bundles and plural second fiber bundles woven together, the second fiber bundles being intersected with the first fiber bundles, and a pair of differential wirings arranged alongside each other on the insulation layer. The first fiber bundles and the second fiber bundles have a curved portion relative to a plan direction of the insulation layer in a region on which the pair of differential wirings is arranged. |
| US09049787B2 |
Paddle card with improved performance
A paddle card construction disclosed for use in connecting electronic devices together. The paddle card takes the form of a circuit board that has a plurality of conductive contact pads arranged thereon in pairs. The contact pads of each pair are spaced apart from each other to provide a pair of points to which cable wire free ends may be terminated, such as by soldering. The spacing of the pads apart from each other in effect reduces to amount of capacitance in the cable wire termination area on the circuit board, thereby reducing the impedance and insertion loss in that area at high frequencies. The contact pads of each pair may be further interconnected together by a thin, conductive trace that extends lengthwise between the contact pads. |
| US09049782B2 |
Mobile device case with retractor reel assembly for user-provided headphones
A mobile device case includes a reel assembly, including a reel, a supporting plate, and a hub between the reel and the supporting plate. The hub includes a first cavity between the hub and the supporting plate for housing a spring, and a second cavity between the hub and the reel for housing a flat flexible cable (FFC). The spring is wound in a first direction, while the FFC is wound in a second direction. The FFC includes a first end for electrically coupling to a female jack connector of a device. A female connector is electrically coupled to a second end of the FFC for engaging a male jack connector of user-provided headphones. When the reel rotates in the first direction, the spring tightens and the FFC loosens. When the reel rotates in the second direction, the spring loosens and the FFC tightens. |
| US09049781B2 |
Display apparatus
Provided is a display apparatus. The display apparatus includes a display panel, a guide member supporting a peripheral area of a back surface of the display panel, an adhesion member fixing the guide member to the display panel, and a bottom cover supporting a lower portion of the guide member. |
| US09049780B2 |
Method of arranging components of circuit board for optimal heat dissipation and circuit apparatus having components arranged by performing the method
A method of arranging a plurality of components of a circuit board for optimal heat dissipation and a circuit apparatus having a plurality of components arranged by performing the method are provided. The method includes arranging a predetermined number of the plurality of components in the order of size of the components in a heat dissipation area having a predetermined width on a virtual straight line connecting the air inlet unit and the air outlet unit. |
| US09049778B2 |
Polyamic acid, photosensitive resin composition, dry film and circuit board
The present invention relates to novel polyamic acid; a photosensitive resin composition satisfying excellent flexibility and low stiffness and exhibiting excellent heat resistance and plating resistance; a dry film obtained from the photosensitive resin composition; and a circuit board including the dry film. |
| US09049773B2 |
Digital controller for an electronic ballast
Provided are circuits and methods for a digital controller for an electronic ballast for a fluorescent lamp, comprising a feed-forward loop that provides information about a voltage firing angle, and a pulse width modulator that controls a duty ratio of at least one power switch of the electronic ballast according to the information. The digital controller may include a duty ratio controller implemented in the pulse width modulator. The digital controller may include one or more functions such as dimming, maintaining high power factor throughout the dimming range, low lamp power detection, lamp soft-start, and DC-link capacitor over-voltage detection for end of life protection or lamp failure protection. In one embodiment the ballast is a single stage, single switch ballast. |
| US09049771B2 |
Charge-transporting material and charge-transporting varnish
Disclosed is a charge-transporting material comprising a heteropoly acid compound such as phosphomolybdic acid as a charge-transporting substance. Also disclosed is a charge-transporting varnish comprising the charge-transporting material and an organic solvent, wherein the charge-transporting substance is dissolved in the organic solvent. It becomes possible to provide a charge-transporting material which comprises a substance having high solubility in an organic solvent, charge-transporting properties, and an ability to oxidize hole transport materials, and a charge-transporting varnish comprising the charge-transporting material. |
| US09049770B2 |
Circuit arrangement and method for operating at least one luminous means
A circuit arrangement may include: an inverter comprising first electronic and second electronic switches coupled in series between a first and second input connections to form a bridge center point; a drive apparatus for the first electronic switch and the second electronic switch; a current-measuring apparatus which is designed and arranged to measure the current through the inverter; a short-circuiting apparatus which is designed to short-circuit the output when the output voltage exceeds a first predefinable threshold value; and an evaluation apparatus which is coupled to the current-measuring apparatus and is designed to determine the mean value of the current through the inverter and, when the mean value undershoots a second predefinable threshold value, to drive the drive apparatus in such a manner that the latter influences the operation of the inverter, by driving the electronic switches in such a manner that the current in the short-circuiting apparatus is reduced. |
| US09049766B2 |
Avoid audio noise of a LED driver during PWM dimming
A LED driver using a PWM signal for dimming control includes a power converter and a current regulator. The power converter provides an output voltage and a load current for a plurality of LEDs. The current regulator provides a load current dependent signal for the power converter to speed up load transient response caused by variation of the load current, to reduce the ripple of the output voltage, and thereby to avoid audio noise during PWM dimming. |
| US09049761B2 |
Power factor control for an LED bulb driver circuit
A light-emitting diode (LED) bulb has a shell and a base attached to the shell. An LED is within the shell. A driver circuit provides current to the LED. The driver circuit has a power factor control circuit that includes a tracking circuit configured to produce a tracking signal indicative of the voltage of the supply line. The power factor control circuit also includes a switch-mode power supply (SMPS) controller having an input pin and an output pin. The tracking circuit is connected to the input pin. Based on the signal at the input pin, the SMPS controller is configured to change a frequency of an output signal on the output pin. |
| US09049755B2 |
Programmable floodlight with pushbutton control
A user-programmable, motion-activated fixture application having floodlights, a nightlight or wall wash light, and a user-interface having dedicated pushbuttons for time, sensitivity, and timer functionality selection by the user. Two proximity sensors detect the presence of infrared-emitting bodies both in front of and below the sensor housing. An ambient light sensor is employed to determine whether it is presently daytime or nighttime, and to identify transitions between the two. A linear array of display LEDs is shared among the time, sensitivity, and timer switches, showing the current setting selected by the user with as each switch is depressed. |
| US09049749B2 |
Crimping fixed, remotely regulated electric heater
This invention is about crimping-fixed, remotely regulated electric heater, which includes a heater tube body to hold the heating elements of PTC and heat sinks that are attached to the heater tube. The heater tube is a long strip-shaped metal tube and has flanges attached to the upper surface and lower sides of this metal tube that forms grooves at the corner between these flanges and the upper/lower surface of the metal tube body. Inside the metal tube is a cavity to hold the PTC heating element with insulation layers are applied in the cavity. Heat sink is first placed on the left and right side of the heater tube, the flanges are folded to clamp the heat sink firmly to the heater tube. |
| US09049747B2 |
Facilitating in-device coexistence between wireless communication technologies
A method for facilitating in-device coexistence between wireless communication technologies on a wireless communication device is provided. The method can include transmitting data traffic from the wireless communication device via an aggressor wireless communication technology; determining occurrence of an in-device interference condition resulting from transmission of the data traffic via the aggressor wireless communication technology interfering with concurrent data reception by the wireless communication device via a victim wireless communication technology; and reducing a bit rate of the data traffic transmitted via the aggressor wireless communication technology in response to the in-device interference condition. |
| US09049746B2 |
Management of multi-mode wireless devices
Devices and methods are disclosed for concurrently managing multimode communications devices. In various embodiments, a wireless communication device comprises a first radio configured to use a first Radio Access Technology (RAT) and a second radio configured to use a second RAT. Processing logic in the wireless device is configured to monitor and manage the state machines of said first and second radios. The processing logic is further configured to place the first radio in an active operational mode and to place the second radio in a reduced functionality operational mode. Control messages for the second radio are then received and processed via the first radio while the second radio is in the reduced functionality operative mode. |
| US09049745B2 |
Wireless electronic devices with dual circuit architecture
Electronic devices may have multiple wireless integrated circuits such as first and second baseband processor integrated circuits. The first baseband processors may be used exclusively for handling packet switched traffic, whereas the second baseband processor may be used exclusively for handling circuit switched traffic. Radio-frequency front end circuitry may be used to couple multiple antennas to the baseband processors and associated radio-frequency transceivers. The first baseband processor may be coupled to a first universal integrated circuit card (UICC) storing a first subscriber profile, whereas the second baseband processor may be coupled to a second UICC storing a second subscriber profile. The first baseband processor may be used to support any desired circuit switched radio access technology, whereas the second baseband processor may be used to support any desired packet switched radio access technology. |
| US09049739B2 |
Apparatus for transmitting a signal using scheduling information in a mobile communication system and method for same
Disclosed are a method for transmitting scheduling information in a mobile communication system and a femtocell base station using the method. A femtocell base station transmits scheduling information using a layered scheduling system in which the femtocell base station receives an allocated resource from a macrocell base station, and allocates the resource to femtocell users within a resource region thereof. |
| US09049734B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for resource immediate assignment
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method, an apparatus, and a system for resource immediate assignment, which includes: constructing an immediate assignment message according to channel request messages of at least two terminals, where the immediate assignment message assigns a channel resource for the at least two terminals according to the channel request messages of the at least two terminals; and sending the immediate assignment message out. By implementing the embodiments of the present invention, in a case that a valid byte of an immediate assignment message is unchanged, one immediate assignment message can assign a packet resource for at least two terminals, thereby satisfying an access requirement of more terminals. |
| US09049731B2 |
Facilitation of bandwidth-based femto cell management
A femto cell access point device (FAPD) selects channel bandwidth and frequency for transmission based on bandwidth of a broadband channel between the femto cell and a core network. A method can include determining a data throughput associated with a broadband channel communicatively coupling the access point device and a network device of a network, and evaluating channel information associated with a plurality of frequency sub-bands. The access point device can be configurable to communicate over the plurality of frequency sub-bands. The method can also include selecting a transmission parameter for a mobile device, wherein the selecting is based on the data throughput, and wherein the transmission parameter comprises information representing a selected set of the plurality of frequency sub-bands. The broadband channel can be a digital subscriber line (DSL) channel in some embodiments. |
| US09049726B2 |
Heterogeneous-systems coexistence method and wireless gateway apparatus
A network management unit included in a base station of WRAN, and a heterogeneous-systems coexistence function unit included in a relay station perform communications by taking advantage of the wireless line of WRAN. In this way, the network management unit and the heterogeneous-systems coexistence function unit make the determination and management of a frequency channel to be utilized by WLAN. Concretely, the QP (Quiet Period) of WRAN and that of WLAN are synchronized with each other with respect to the above-described frequency channel. During the synchronized QPs, WRAN and WLAN make the absence confirmation of a primary user. |
| US09049722B2 |
Methods and apparatus of enhancing performance in wireless communication systems
Methods and apparatus for supporting and using multiple communications channels corresponding to different transmit technologies and/or access technologies in parallel within a cell of a wireless communications system are described. Mobile nodes support multiple technologies and can switch between the technology being used at a particular point in time, e.g., from a first channel corresponding to a first technology to a second channel corresponding to a different technology which provides better transmission characteristics, e.g., a better perceived channel quality. Mobiles maintain at least two sets of channel quality information at any one point in time. Mobiles select the better channel and communicate the channel selection to the base station or communicate channel quality information for multiple channels to the base station and allow the base station to select the channel corresponding to the technology providing the better conditions for the mobile. Different mobiles in the same cell may support different technologies. |
| US09049721B2 |
Apparatus and method for filtering IP packet in mobile communication terminal
An apparatus, method, and system for filtering an Internet Protocol (IP) packet in a mobile communication terminal are provided. The method includes receiving an IP packet from a network, determining whether the received IP packet is an IP packet unallowable by an application Central Processing Unit (CPU), and when the received IP packet is determined to be an IP packet unallowable by the application CPU, generating an IP packet indicating that the received IP packet is unallowable and transmitting the generated IP packet to the network. |
| US09049719B2 |
Communication system, transmitting station, and mobile station, for determining allocation of frequency band used in communication
The base station determines a possibly-allocated domain, which is a band that may be used in communication with the mobile station, with respect to each mobile station, and determines a frequency band to be allocated to the mobile station within the determined possibly-allocated domain. Then, the base station transmits possibly-allocated-domain information indicating the possibly-allocated domain and allocation information, which is information indicating allocation of the frequency band, to the mobile station. Then, the base station and the mobile station communicate with each other in accordance with the possibly-allocated-domain information and the allocation information. |
| US09049714B2 |
Inter-cell interference coordination method and apparatus for an OFDM-based heterogeneous cellular system
An inter-cell interference coordination method and apparatus is provided for a heterogeneous network system based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFMD) communication. The inter-cell interference coordination method and apparatus exchanges two different types of inter-cell interference coordination messages between base stations to adaptively use the frequency division and time division schemes, thereby coordinating inter-cell interference of control channels transmitted randomly in distributed manner. |
| US09049711B2 |
Channel availability for white-space devices, associated apparatus and methods
An apparatus configured to determine one or more channels available for use by respective one or more white-space devices in a particular determined geographical location. The apparatus is configured to: receive geographic location signalling associated with the particular determined geographical location of one or more white-space devices; receive uncertainty indication signalling for the uncertainty associated with the particular determined geographic location of the one or more white-space devices; and determine the one or more channels available for use by the respective one or more white-space devices in the particular determined geographical location by using the geographic location signalling and uncertainty indication signalling. |
| US09049708B2 |
Method and apparatus for coexistence among wireless transmit/receive units (WTRUs) operating in the same spectrum
A method and apparatus for coexistence among wireless transmit/receive units (WTRUs) operating in the same spectrum are disclosed. A WTRU includes a memory, a receive unit, a transmit unit and a control unit. The memory stores coexistence gap patterns. Each of the coexistence gap patterns defines a pattern of transmission periods and silent periods for the WTRU and corresponds to a respective duty cycle. The receive unit receives from a base station information regarding a duty cycle for a wireless cell operated by the base station. The control unit selects one of the coexistence gap patterns based on the received information regarding the duty cycle for the wireless cell and controls the transmit unit to transmit information during the transmission periods and not transmit information during the silent periods of the selected one of the plurality of coexistence gap patterns. |
| US09049706B2 |
Method, device and system for relay timing adjustment
An embodiment of the present application provides a relay timing adjustment method, system and device, relating to the technical field of wireless communications, for use in solving the problem of how to synchronize base station downlink transmission and relay device downlink transmission in an Advanced Long Term Evolution (LTE-A) system. In this application, the base station sends an access downlink transmission timing adjustment command to the relay device. When the relay device receives said access downlink transmission timing adjustment command, the downlink transmission timing is adjusted in said relay device according to said received access downlink transmission timing adjustment command. This invention is thus able to synchronize relay device access downlink transmission timing with base station downlink transmission timing. |
| US09049704B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting control information in wireless communication system
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system. In particular, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for transmitting control information by means of a terminal in a CA-based wireless communication system, including the steps of: forming first and second cells that include different subframe configurations, wherein the second cell includes TDD UL-DL configuration #0; receiving a UL grant by means of the first cell; and transmitting data corresponding to the UL grant by means of the second cell. |
| US09049703B2 |
Apparatus and method for transmitting and receiving packets in a mobile communication system supporting hybrid automatic repeat request
An apparatus and a method are provided for receiving data in a communication system. Information is received representative of a number of processes of a persistent resource allocation and a persistent resource allocation interval. Data is received in a new transmission based on the received information. A HARQ process ID is calculated using the number of processes of the persistent resource allocation, the persistent resource allocation interval, and time information. Control information including the HARQ process ID is received. Data is received in a retransmission, based on the control information including the HARQ process ID. The data received in the new transmission and the data received in the retransmission are combined. The combined data is decoded. |
| US09049700B2 |
Method and apparatus for handling uplink transmissions using multiple uplink carriers
A method and an apparatus for uplink transmission using multiple uplink carriers are disclosed. A wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) selects a dedicated channel medium access control (MAC-d) flow with highest priority data to be transmitted and performs uplink carrier selection and enhanced dedicated channel (E-DCH) transport format combination (E-TFC) restriction and selection to select a carrier among a plurality of carriers and select an E-TFC based on a maximum supported payload, a remaining scheduled grant payload of the selected carrier and a remaining non-scheduled grant payload. The WTRU then generates a medium access control (MAC) protocol data unit (PDU) for E-DCH transmission via the selected carrier based on the selected E-TFC. |
| US09049695B2 |
Association rules based on channel quality for peer-to-peer and WAN communication
Techniques are provided for association decisions by a user equipment (UE) or the like. In one example, there is provided a method that may involve discovering a peer UE, and determining a first metric for the peer UE. The method may further involve determining a second metric for a base station in a wireless area network (WAN). The method may further involve deciding whether to associate with the peer UE for peer-to-peer (P2P) communication or with the WAN for communication via the base station based on the first and second metrics. For example, the first metric may be determined based on received power of the peer UE at the first UE, and the second metric may be determined based on received power of the base station at the first UE. |
| US09049691B2 |
Base station apparatus, control method of base station apparatus, communication system, and storage medium storing program
A base station 1 includes a radio communication unit 11 and a frequency channel control unit 15. The radio communication unit 11 is capable of forming a primary cell and a secondary cell, and transmitting a physical channel for data transmission (HS-PDSCH) in each of these two cells. Further, the frequency channel control unit 15 determines a frequency channel available to the secondary cell based on the load status of a nearby cell formed by a nearby base station 7. In this way, the interference to the nearby cell caused by the base station 1 is suppressed. |
| US09049688B2 |
Selective auto-accept of full duplex push to talk call
A device establishes a first communication session with an endpoint and is configured to perform the first session via one of two different call configurations. In response to unplanned termination of the first session, the device identifies a specific call terminating condition and determines when the call terminating condition is within a first subset of call terminating conditions. Then, in response, the device: creates a record of the first session, including information identifying the established call configuration; and activates a timer associated with the record. The device then autonomously accepts a request to establish a second communication session from an endpoint and implements the same call configuration for the second session, in response to the request (a) being received before expiration of the timer and (b) establishing the second session between the communication device and the same endpoint. With a Push-to-Talk call, the established call configuration is full duplex mode. |
| US09049685B2 |
Identifiers and triggers for capillary devices
Methods and apparatuses for capillary network device registration implemented in a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) are disclosed. Registration or bootstrap messages may be received by a capillary network device where the WTRU acts as a gateway for communication between the capillary device and a network such as a 3GPP network. A capillary network device identifier (CNDID) is sent to the capillary device. A packet data protocol (PDP) context or PDN connection may be established with the network and the CNDID may be sent to a machine type communications (MTC) server. The WTRU may create the registration message, establish a connection with the network, and forward the registration message to the MTC server. Methods and apparatuses implemented in a network are also disclosed for identifying, addressing, and triggering the capillary devices from the MTC server. The trigger message may include fields for group communication, reducing signaling, and enabling charging. |
| US09049681B2 |
System and method of message delivery in a wireless communication network
A router receives from a host service a message which is intended for delivery to a mobile device via a wireless network. The message includes an indication field which includes a return packet indication on whether to send a return packet to the host, an identifier field which includes an identifier which identifies the device, and a payload field which includes a payload of the message. When the indication is set to a first, setting and the message is not being delivered to the device, the router sends to the host a return packet which indicates that the message is not being delivered to the device. When the indication is set to a second setting and the message is not being delivered to the device, the router does not send to the host the return packet which indicates that the message is not being delivered to the device. |
| US09049680B2 |
Threshold determination in TDOA-based positioning system
A method in a wireless communication terminal including receiving a signal comprising at least a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) transmission from a serving cell and a PRS transmission from a neighbor cell, estimating a signal quality metric (SQM) based on the PRS transmission from the neighbor cell, estimating a time difference of arrival (TDOA) measurement for the neighbor cell based on the PRS transmissions, determining if the estimated SQM satisfies a criterion, and sending a report to the serving cell that includes at least the estimated TDOA if the criterion is satisfied. |
| US09049677B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for paging processing and information displaying
A method, an apparatus, and a system for paging processing and information displaying are disclosed. The paging processing method includes: receiving a paging request message from a Mobile Switching Center (MSC) which a called User Equipment (UE) registers to; and when the called UE is connected, sending a paging notification message to the called UE, and returning a called-UE paging status message to the MSC. In the embodiments of the present invention, after the Mobility Management Entity (MME) receives the paging request message from the MSC, if the called UE is connected, the MME not only sends a Circuit-Switched (CS) paging notification message to the called UE, but also returns a paging status message to the MSC, indicating that the called UE has received the paging notification message. |
| US09049670B2 |
Interference-improved uplink data rates for a group of mobile stations transmitting to a base station
A base station maximizes an uplink data transmission rate from multiple mobiles treated by the base station as a virtual single uplink transmitter. The base station identifies a set of mobile stations as a candidate transmitting set and determines a transmit power allowable from the mobile stations in the candidate transmitting set. A subset of those mobile stations in the candidate transmitting set is identified. Uplink data transmission rates are assigned and communicated to the subset of mobile stations in the candidate transmitting set so as to optimize a total number of bits processed by the base station associated with the uplink transmissions received from the subset of candidate mobile stations. The optimization may accomplish one or more objectives in addition to optimizing the total number of bits processed. |
| US09049665B2 |
EMO linkage simplification
Disclosed herein is a simplified EMO linkage circuit that enables add-on equipment without retrofit, and eliminates the need for multi-contact EMO switches. |
| US09049663B2 |
Processing involving multiple sensors
In a particular embodiment, an apparatus includes a first sensor that has an active mode and a dormant mode. When operating in the active mode, the first sensor has a first power consumption level. The apparatus further includes a second sensor that has a second power consumption level that is less than the first power consumption level (i.e., the power consumption level of the first sensor). The second sensor is deactivated when the first sensor is operating in the active mode. The apparatus includes logic to activate the second sensor when the first sensor transitions from the active mode to the dormant mode. |
| US09049660B2 |
Wake pattern management
Wake pattern management techniques are described. In one or more implementations, network traffic received by a network interface device of a computing device is monitored and a traffic pattern is recognized in the monitored network traffic. An application of the computing device is identified that corresponds to the recognized traffic pattern and responsive to this identification, at least a portion of the identified application is woken. |
| US09049658B2 |
Power save mechanism for peer-to-peer communication networks
A group owner of a peer-to-peer communication network is configured to determine whether all client devices associated with the peer-to-peer communication network support direct data communication. The group owner is configured to implement an awake mode for a portion of each beacon interval when all the associated client devices support direct data communication. The group owner is configured to implement a sleep mode for a remaining portion of each beacon interval to save power at the group owner without interrupting communications between the associated client devices. |
| US09049657B2 |
System and method of user equipment state transition
A user equipment and a method performed by the user equipment is provided. The method comprises receiving a network message from a network, inhibiting a sending of a user equipment message to the network and transitioning to a target state. The user equipment is adaptable/adapted and/or configurable/configured to receive a network message from a network, inhibit a sending of a user equipment message to the network and transition to a target state. The network message indicates the target state to which the user equipment is to transition. |
| US09049650B2 |
Methods and apparatus for selecting an inter-radio access technology for an electronic device
Methods and apparatus for selecting an inter-radio access technology for an electronic device are disclosed. In an embodiment, a wireless electronic device determines if a first radio signal strength (e.g., LTE) is weak enough that the device should start scanning for another radio access technology (e.g., CDMA). If the first radio signal strength (e.g., LTE) is very weak (e.g., even weaker than the level that caused the device to start scanning), and a second radio signal strength (e.g., CDMA) is above a second threshold, then the device selects the second radio access technology (e.g., switches from LTE to CDMA). If (a) the first radio signal strength (e.g., LTE) is not weak enough to warrant a move to another radio access technology, (b) the second radio signal strength (e.g., CDMA) is not above the second threshold (e.g., not strong enough to warrant a move), and/or (c) a motion sensor determines that the device is relatively stationary (e.g., signal strengths are unlikely to change), then the device sets a back-off timer (e.g., set to expire in one second before trying again, and then two seconds before trying again, then three seconds etc). |
| US09049648B2 |
Cognitive communication network system and communicating method thereof
Object: To provide a mechanism and a function of a system that can determine a communication method and the like effectively utilizing frequency resources, considering priority of each communication, in a cognitive communication network system of a frequency shared type or the like assuming that a given frequency band is shared by a plurality of systems in use.Solution: In a configuration in which a cognitive communication network system has a plurality of radio access networks 23 and a superior communication network 10 that provides a common platform at least to the radio access networks, in a plurality of base stations 23a on at least a part of the radio access network 23, base-station state obtaining means 232 that collect information relating to a state of the base station itself in the base station or a communication state and base-station communication reconfiguration managing means 231 that reconfigure at least one of either a selection of the base station to be used in the communication or a communication condition in the base station on the basis of the information collected by the base-station state obtaining means are provided. |
| US09049647B1 |
Manual public land mobile network search prioritization
A method for performing manual public land mobile network (PLMN) search includes: receiving a command to perform manual PLMN search on an inactive subscription associated with a first subscriber identity module (SIM) of a communication device; determining if a data connection is enabled on an active subscription associated with a second SIM of the communication device; and if the data connection is not enabled on the active subscription, performing the manual PLMN search on the inactive subscription by tuning away from the active subscription to identify available operators associated with the first SIM. |
| US09049646B2 |
Methods and apparatus for network searching
Methods and apparatus for network searching are disclosed. An example method is performed by a mobile device related to public land mobile network (PLMN) selection, the method comprising registering with a visited PLMN, determining whether a priority search inhibit list includes a cell global identity of a serving cell, dependent at least in part on determining that the priority search inhibit list does not include the cell global identity of the serving cell and dependent at least in part on a priority search period, searching for a second PLMN having a higher priority than the visited PLMN, and dependent at least in part on the searching being unsuccessful, adding the cell global identity of the serving cell to the priority search inhibit list. |
| US09049642B2 |
Wireless local area network access controlled by cellular communications
A centralized wireless local area network access controller includes a memory that stores instructions, and a processor that executes the instructions. The instructions cause the centralized wireless local area network access controller to perform a process. The process includes receiving, via a cellular network, information from a dual mode mobile device within range of a wireless local area network. The process also includes confirming that the dual mode mobile device can communicate via the wireless local area network. The process also includes sending instructions for the dual mode mobile device to communicate via the wireless local area network. |
| US09049637B2 |
Automatic transfer of mobile calls between voice over internet protocol (VoIP) and guaranteed service (GS) networks based on quality of service (QoS) measurements
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for the automatic transfer of mobile calls between wireless packet switched (PS) and guaranteed service (GS) networks based on quality of service (QoS) measurements are disclosed. One method includes establishing a call over the PS or GS network. The method may further include monitoring a quality of service (QoS) parameter associated with the PS network, and comparing the QoS parameter to a minimum quality threshold. The method may further include receiving instructions to initiate a call transfer based upon the comparison of the QoS parameter to the minimum quality threshold. |
| US09049626B2 |
Methods and apparatus for reliable inter radio access network handover
In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, a method comprises receiving at a first network node an inter-radio access technology (RAT) signaling message from a source node, a handover signaling message including inter-RAT handover information including a START packet switched (START PS) value; determining whether the START PS value is reliable prior to handing over to a second network node at least based in part on the source node from which the START PS value is received and inter-RAT handover information reliability indicator; building an inter-RAT handover information reliability indicator to indicate whether the START PS value is reliable and including the inter-RAT handover info reliability indicator in a second signaling message; and forwarding the second signaling message to the second network node. |
| US09049625B2 |
Route switching methods and systems
A route switching method, when a mobile node is switching between access routers, the method comprises: the second access router sending a context transfer message to the third access router, the third access router updating a Cache for Destination Terminal and a Cache for Source Terminal in a cache of the third access router according to the context transfer message; the second access router updating its cache according to the context transfer message, and updating a Cache for Destination Terminal in a cache of a first access router. Several route switching methods and route switching systems are also involved. Based on the Context Transfer Protocol, it enables the access router to transfer the address information of the mobile node associated with a session connection by the context transfer message directly during the switching, without the process in which the new access router inquires the routing manager, thereby reducing the delay caused by inquiring the routing manager, and thus decreasing the possibility of message lost. |
| US09049622B1 |
Methods and systems for limiting mobile station operation in a group setting
Methods and corresponding systems are provided for limiting mobile station operation when multiple mobile stations are moving together in a group. Such group movement includes but is not limited to movement in a vehicle. According to disclosed methods, a determination is made that multiple mobile stations are moving substantially together, and in response to the determination, operation of one or more of the mobile stations is limited. |
| US09049619B2 |
Apparatus and method of reporting power headroom in wireless communication system
A method and apparatus of reporting a power headroom in a wireless communication system are provided. A user equipment receives an uplink resource allocation for a first serving cell and determines whether a power headroom report is triggered. If the power headroom report is triggered, the user equipment determines a first power headroom for the first serving cell and a second power headroom for a second serving cell based on the uplink resource allocation. |
| US09049613B2 |
Radio or network evaluation for selection based on measurements using application layer protocols at a mobile device
In one embodiment, a method comprises measuring a set of parameters for each of the available networks using an application layer protocol (e.g., HTTP). The method further comprises determining an overall quality level for each of the available networks based on the parameters, and choosing the network based on the overall quality level. In some embodiments, the set of parameters are measured by communicating with each of a plurality of predetermined servers within a respective network. Among other advantages, embodiments disclosed herein enable a quantified approach to user experience estimation and application-level Quality of Experience (QoE) measurements, which can serve as bases for selection of radios for the applications. |
| US09049610B2 |
Method and apparatus for operating a timer for processing data blocks
A timer for processing data blocks is proposed for a receiver of a mobile communications system. If the timer is not running, the timer is started based a data block. The data block has a sequence number higher than a sequence number of another data block that was first expected to be received. If the timer is stopped or expires, the timer is based on a highest sequence number of a data block among data blocks that cannot be delivered to a higher entity. The timer can be used to prevent a stall condition in mobile communications. |
| US09049608B2 |
Measurements for the interworking of wireless wide area and wireless local area networks
Technology is discussed for capturing performance measurements from Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN) transmission points and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Access Points (AP). The performance measurements can provide information about the interworking a WWAN and one or more WLANs that can be used to offload traffic from the WWAN. Also, an illustrative example of the collection of performance measurements at a WWAN is explained. Furthermore, the correlation, analysis, and general harnessing of performance measurements to optimize and/or maintain combinations between a WWAN and one or more WLANs is discussed, among other topics. |
| US09049602B2 |
Apparatus and method for detecting a cloned base station
Communications are established with a first base station and the communications include first validation information associated with the first base station. Second validation information is obtained and the second validation information is stored in a data structure. The second validation information is associated with a second and valid base station. The first validation information is compared to the second validation information stored in the data structure and it is determined whether the first base station is valid based upon the comparison. When the comparing indicates that the first base station is not valid, a warning is initiated to a user. |
| US09049599B2 |
Information processing apparatus equipped with wireless communication function, method of controlling the same, and storage medium
An information processing apparatus capable of effectively preventing an unauthorized access in a manner cooperatively associated with a predetermined security setting of a wireless communication. An information processing apparatus is capable of wireless communication with an external apparatus, receives a job request therefrom, and executes job processing according to the job request. A CPU sets a management setting for managing users who use the information processing apparatus. The CPU receives the job request from the external apparatus via a wireless LAN interface. The CPU determines, when the job request is received, whether or not the wireless communication has been set to a predetermined security setting, and performs control, when it is determined that the wireless communication has not been set to the predetermined security setting, so as to refuse to accept the job request, unless the management setting has been set. |
| US09049597B2 |
Telecommunications device security
A terminal (1) for use with a cellular or mobile telecommunications network (3) includes authentication means (15) such as a SIM, USIM, UICC etc. for authenticating the terminal with the network. The terminal further includes a normal execution environment (30) and a secure execution environment (34). An interface controller (46) is provided in the secure execution environment and intercepts all communications directed to the authentication means to control access to the authentication means by these communications. |
| US09049595B2 |
Providing ubiquitous wireless connectivity and a marketplace for exchanging wireless connectivity using a connectivity exchange
Various implementations are described herein for using a connectivity exchange to provide ubiquitous wireless connectivity and a marketplace for exchanging wireless connectivity. Wireless service providers join the connectivity exchange and enable users to access the Internet using their wireless connectivity via the connectivity exchange. Users are authenticated via the exchange and rates and terms for users to access the Internet are negotiated. General service providers provide services via the exchange. |
| US09049592B2 |
Techniques for key derivation for secure communication in wireless mesh networks
Key derivation procedures and key hierarchies compatible with the mesh link establishment protocol for use in a mesh network. A single cryptographic primitive may be utilized, which is a key derivation function, denoted as kdfK, where K is a cached pairwise master key. The result of the function kdfK may be used to derive the keys used to secure both link establishment and the data subsequently exchanged over the link. |
| US09049580B2 |
QUALCOMM chat mobile terminal update and authentication method and mobile terminal
A QUALCOMM chat (Qchat) mobile terminal update and authentication method and a mobile terminal are disclosed. A historical result of performing data update of a Qchat service is recorded in a preset storage location in a mobile terminal, and determines, according to the result, whether the Qchat service is activated in the current mobile terminal card. If the Qchat service is not activated, a data update process of the Qchat service is skipped, and a start-up procedure except the data update process of the Qchat service is directly executed, thereby effectively reducing an invalid tariff incurred to a non-Qchat mobile terminal card user during start-up; and meanwhile, normal use of a Qchat user is not affected and user experience is improved. |
| US09049576B2 |
Methods and systems for enabling end-user equipment at an end-user premise to effect communications having certain destinations when an ability of the end-user equipment to communicate via a communication link connecting the end-user equipment to a communications network is disrupted
A method for effecting communications, such as telephone calls, accesses to data network sites (e.g., web sites), alarm system communications, and/or other communications, having certain destinations over a communications network. The method comprises: receiving a request for a communication originated by first end-user equipment at a first end-user premise when an ability of the first end-user equipment to communicate via a first communication link connecting the first end-user equipment to the communications network is disrupted; determining, based on a destination of the communication, that the communication is to be effected over the communications network; and causing information pertaining to the communication to be exchanged between the first end-user equipment and the communications network via a wireless communication link established between the first end-user equipment and second end-user equipment at a second end-user premise and a second communication link connecting the second end-user equipment to the communications network. Also provided are apparatus and computer-readable media containing a program element executable by a computing system to perform such a method. |
| US09049575B2 |
Media event structure and context identification using short messages
The present disclosure is descriptive of discovering structure, content, and context of a media event, e.g., a live media event, using real-time discussions that unfold through short messaging services. Generally, a sampling of short messages of a plurality of users is obtained. The sampling of short messages corresponds to a media event. A segment in the media event is identified using the sampling of short messages, and at least one term taken from the sampling of short messages is identified. The at least one term is indicative of a context of the identified segment. |
| US09049574B2 |
Messaging system and method
A method of cross-platform messaging including receiving, by a messaging system, at least one initial message having a message format, an initial message layout and data indicative of at least one user associated with the at least one initial message, and before delivery to a destination communication device associated with the at least one user, converting, by the messaging system, an initial message into an adapted message, and facilitating, by the messaging system, delivery of the adapted message to the destination communication device. The adapted message is characterized by, at least, an adapted message layout, and the adapted message layout differs from the initial message layout in a characteristic associated with respective message layout such as number of media objects, a graphical image of a media object, a size of a placeholder related to a media object, and a location of a media object within a respective message layout. |
| US09049573B2 |
Method and system for the mass sending of messages
The present publication discloses a method and system for sending messages in a telecommunications network (1, 2, 6, 11, 12), in which method digital messages (40) which contain information on the desired reply address (32) are mass sent (3), and messages, which are sent on the basis of the reply-address information (32) are received (10). According to the invention, the reply-address information of each mass-sent message (40) is converted (3) to correspond to a predefined dialog, in which the stage of the dialog defines unequivocally the reply-address information (32), so that the transmission and reception of the messages are implemented in different parts of the telecommunications system (1, 2, 6, 11, 12). |
| US09049572B2 |
Sensor driven message retrieval for mobile device
A mobile device periodically polls a network server via a communications network to obtain new communications addressed to a client account according to a polling schedule. The mobile device receives an indication of a threshold change of one or more of ambient light, temperature, or proximity of an object to the mobile device via an optical sensor of the mobile device, or an indication of motion of the mobile device via a motion sensor of the mobile device. The polling schedule is advanced responsive to the indication of the threshold change of ambient light, temperature, or proximity, or the indication of motion. The mobile device outputs a notification that new communications have been received by the mobile device from the network server. |
| US09049571B2 |
Method and system for enhanced messaging
Techniques for acquiring, sending, receiving or using status information from a remote location over a network are disclosed. The status information is transmitted over the network between or among electronic devices. The status information can be provided by one or more sensors associated with the electronic device that is transmitting the status information. The status information can be transmitted with messages so as to enhance the messages. The electronic devices include at least computing devices, such as personal computers, personal digital assistants, pagers, and mobile telephones. |
| US09049563B2 |
Mobile device positioning in dynamic groupings of communication devices
A location aware intelligent transportation system determines ranges between a plurality of communication devices, including at least one mobile communication device. A method includes receiving receive messages transmitted from a plurality of other communication devices. Each receive message includes a transmit count stamp corresponding to a remote counter value. The mobile communication device generates a receive count stamp for each receive message. The method includes dynamically associating and disassociating the mobile communication device with a plurality of sub-groups of the plurality of other communication devices. The associating and disassociating are based at least in part on receiving receive messages from a predetermined number of other communication devices for each sub-group. For each sub-group currently associated with the mobile communication device, the method includes generating range estimates between the mobile communication device and the other communication devices in the particular sub-group. The range estimates are based on a combination of the transmit count stamps and the receive count stamps. |
| US09049559B2 |
Methods, systems and computer program products for anonymous tracking of objects
Systems and methods of providing location information associated with moveable objects include receiving tag identification (ID) information reports from a plurality of tag sensors. A movable object associated with each of the ID information reports received from the tag sensors is identified. Location information associated with the movable objects is updated responsive to the received ID information reports to provide updated location information for the moveable objects and an owner associated with each of the movable objects is determined. Access to the location information associated with respective ones of the movable objects is allowed only to requestors authorized by the owner associated with the respective ones of the movable objects, wherein the tag sensors have not been provided notification of ID information associated with the movable objects or of the owners associated with the moveable objects. |
| US09049558B2 |
Systems and methods for determining mobile thing motion activity (MTMA) using sensor data of wireless communication device (WCD) and initiating activity-based actions
Systems, apparatus, and methods are disclosed for accurately identifying a moving thing motion activity (MTMA) associated with a mobile thing (MT) using sensor data from one or more sensors associated with a wireless communication device (WCD) transported by the MT so as to enable or initiate a further one or more activity based actions. One such method, among others, comprises: (a) receiving first and second data from one or more sensors (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, etc.) associated with a wireless communication device (WCD) transported by a mobile thing (MT), the first and second data indicative of movement of the WCD; (b) determining reference data that defines a reference framework from the first data; (c) normalizing the second data with the reference data so that the second data can be analyzed in the reference framework; and (d) identifying an MTMA associated with the MT based upon the normalized second data. |
| US09049556B1 |
Communication device
The communication device comprising a voice communication implementer, an email reception notifying implementer, and an area dependent notice type changing implementer. |
| US09049555B2 |
Clustering geofence-based alerts for mobile devices
A geofence management system obtains location data for points of interest. The geofence management system determines, at the option of the user, the location of a user mobile computing device relative to specific points of interest and alerts the user when the user nears the points of interest. The geofence management system, however, determines relationships among the identified points of interest, and associates or “clusters” the points of interest together based on the determined relationships. Rather than establishing separate geofences for multiple points of interest, and then alerting the user each time the user's mobile device enters each geofence boundary, the geofence management system establishes a single geofence boundary for the associated points of interest. When the user's mobile device enters the clustered geofence boundary, the geofence management system notifies the user device to alert the user of the entrance event. The user then receives the clustered, geofence-based alert. |
| US09049552B2 |
Location aware reminders
Disclosed are various embodiments employed to generate location and proximity based reminders. To this end, a device is configured to generate its geographical location using a positioning system. The device detects when it impinges upon at least one geographical trigger based upon its geographical location. A predefined reminder is generated in the device when the device impinges upon the geographical trigger. |
| US09049549B2 |
Method and apparatus for probabilistic user location
A method of delivering location-based information comprises receiving a request including a location indicator from a packet-based network and translating the location indicator into a probabilistic representation of one or more possible locations of a mobile user based on historical data collected from mobile devices. By generating the probabilistic user location representation, the method can be used to deal with the inherent uncertainty in user location data, particularly in a mobile world. In some embodiments, this is done by using validation, context analysis, creation of consistent groups, and probability allocation procedures. Location-based document retrieval can be enabled using the probabilistic user location representation. |
| US09049545B2 |
System and method for determining location of an item
The present disclosure provides a system and method for determining a location of an item using the services of an existing cellular infrastructure. A search request comprising a first item identifier of the item is received by a tracking service server from a user. A second item identifier of the item is retrieved by the tracking service server from a tracking service database. A search signal comprising the second item identifier is transmitted from the tracking service server to at least one mobile service provider system. The search signal is transmitted by the at least one mobile service provider system to a plurality of communicatively coupled transmitting towers which are configured to locate the item by capturing radio frequency signals, comprising the second item identifier, emitted by an identification tag coupled to the item. |
| US09049543B2 |
Method and apparatus for location notification using location context information
Provided is a method and apparatus for location notification using location context information. In accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, a mobile device automatically generates location context information that indicates a point of interest in a vicinity of the mobile device. For example, if the user of the mobile device is at home, then the location context information indicates that the user is at home instead of merely indicating latitude/longitude information corresponding to the location of the home. The mobile device displays the location context information in order to convey the location of the mobile device in a manner that is meaningful without the need for a map. Alternatively, or additionally, the mobile device provides the location context information to at least one other device. This serves to inform other users of the location of the mobile device in a manner that is meaningful without the need for a map. |
| US09049540B2 |
Wireless attached reader screen for cell phones
A display device is provided comprising a housing, a communication means within the housing configured to receive content from a local content source device external to the housing and to transmit messages to the local content source device, wherein the content comprises a static screen image, a storage means configured to store the content having been received from the content source device, wherein the storage means stores no more than a single static screen image and a display configured to display the content. A method for use with the display device is further provided. |
| US09049539B2 |
System and method for managing events associated with the detection of wireless devices
The disclosed embodiments provide a system and method for managing events associated with the detection of wireless devices. The disclosed embodiments utilize a residential wireless access point for detecting the signal transmitted by a wireless device. A user configures a wireless device detection program to perform specified events in response to the detection and/or absence of a wireless device. The disclosed embodiments may provide home automation functions, home security functions, and/or provide child monitoring features. |
| US09049534B2 |
Directionally radiating sound in a vehicle
An audio system for a vehicle includes a directional loudspeaker that is mounted to a vehicle seat. The directional loudspeaker radiates a first channel audio signal so that the direction toward an intended location of a first ear position of an occupant of the vehicle seat is a high radiation direction and radiates a second channel audio signal so that the direction toward an intended location of a second ear position of the occupant of the vehicle seat is a high radiation direction. A forward mounted loudspeaker radiates at least one of the first channel audio signal and the second channel audio signal. Signal processing circuitry modifies (e.g., delays) the first channel audio signal to at least one of the directional loudspeaker and the forward mounted loudspeaker to cause one of those speakers to dominate spatial perception. |
| US09049526B2 |
Compact programming block connector for hearing assistance devices
The present subject matter relates to a method and apparatus for a compact programming block for a hearing assistance device, such as a hearing aid. In one embodiment, the compact programming block is formed in a programming block module with another component and the programming block module includes a flexible circuit design. The design incorporates a first flexible circuit disposed in a programming module that receives a second flexible circuit connection. The programming block module includes a plurality of contact springs and is shaped to provide a small profile that is integrated with a microphone housing. The integrated microphone and programming block module can be used in a hearing assistance device. In various embodiments, the programming block is integrated with a pushbutton, and the integrated pushbutton and programming block can be used in a hearing assistance device. |
| US09049522B2 |
Piezoelectric microspeaker and method of fabricating the same
A piezoelectric microspeaker and a method of fabricating the same are provided. The piezoelectric microspeaker includes a substrate having a through hole therein; a diaphragm disposed on the substrate and covering the through hole; and a plurality of piezoelectric actuators including a piezoelectric member, a first electrode, and a second electrode, wherein the first and second electrodes are configured to induce an electric field in the piezoelectric member. The piezoelectric actuators include a central actuator, which is disposed on a central portion of the diaphragm and a plurality of edge actuators, which are disposed a predetermined distance apart from the central actuator and are formed on a plurality of edge portions of the diaphragm. |
| US09049521B2 |
Loudspeaker magnetic circuit and loudspeaker using same
A magnetic circuit includes a magnet, a first plate, and a yoke, and has a magnetic gap. The first plate and the yoke are joined to the magnet. The magnet includes first and second magnet parts. The second magnet part has a lower magnetic property than that of the first magnet part. Such a first magnet part is disposed in a vicinity of the magnetic gap. On the other hand, the second magnet part is disposed farther from the magnetic gap than the first magnet part. The first and second magnet parts are connected in parallel to each other. With this configuration, the second magnet part makes a small contribution to the magnetic flux density in the magnetic gap. Therefore, the magnetic property of the second magnet part may be low, and an inexpensive magnet can be used as the second magnet part. |
| US09049518B2 |
Orientation-responsive acoustic array control
An audio device includes a casing configured for operation in a first orientation and a second orientation different from the first orientation, an orientation input device disposed on the casing to detect an orientation of the casing relative to the direction of the force of gravity, and a plurality of acoustic drivers disposed on the casing and operable to form a plurality of acoustic interference arrays, each of which is associated with one of a plurality of audio channels. The acoustic drivers of the audio device operate in a first frequency range and modify at least one of the acoustic interference arrays in response to a change in the orientation detected by the orientation input device. |
| US09049511B2 |
Diaphragm and speaker using same
A diaphragm is disclosed in the present disclosure. The diaphragm includes a middle layer, a first and a second adhesive layer attached on two side surfaces of the middle layer respectively, and a first layer adhered to the middle layer by the first adhesive layer and a second layer adhered to the middle layer by the second adhesive layer. The first adhesive layer is made of acrylic adhesive and the second adhesive layer is made of silica gel. A speaker using the diaphragm described above is also disclosed. The diaphragm can be used in a relatively wide temperature range and has a strong adaptability to the environment. |
| US09049506B2 |
Micro-speaker
A micro-speaker includes a yoke, a magnet assembly attached to the yoke, a voice coil, and a diaphragm connected with the voice coil. The yoke defines a bottom wall, and a number of sidewalls extending upwards from the bottom wall. The magnet assembly includes a main magnet positioned on the bottom wall, and a number of secondary magnets positioned on tops of the sidewalls. |
| US09049504B2 |
Sound emission and collection device
A sound emission and collection device has a plurality of speakers (11) and a plurality of microphones. The speakers each have a sound emission surface arranged on the side surface of a case (1) so that sound can be emitted in all circumferential directions. The microphones (12) each are arranged with the sound collection direction set in the center direction of the case (1). The microphone (12) and the speaker (11) have directivities opposing to each other to minimize a wraparound sound from the speaker (11) to the microphone (12). Moreover, since the speaker (11) and the microphone (12) are arranged on circumferences of concentric circles, it is possible to obtain a compact configuration. |
| US09049502B2 |
System with wireless earphones
A system comprising a wireless earphone set and a client computing device, both of which are communicable with a host server via the Internet. The host server stores configuration parameters for the wireless earphone set that are transmittable to the wireless earphone set via the Internet, and that are configurable by an authenticated user of the client computing device via the host server to generate updated configuration parameters for the wireless earphone set. The updated configuration parameters for the wireless earphone set are transmitted by the host server to the wireless earphone set via the Internet. |
| US09049501B2 |
Audio system with synthesized positive impedance
An electrical apparatus to sense current through a load includes a first input terminal having a first input voltage relative to a reference, a second input terminal having a second input voltage relative to the reference, a first load terminal of the load having a first load voltage relative to the reference, a second load terminal of the load having a second load voltage relative to the reference, a first current sensing element connected between the first input terminal and the first load terminal and a second current sensing element connected between the second input terminal and the second load terminal. A first sense voltage is determined by a relationship between the first input voltage and the second load voltage and a second sense voltage is determined by a relationship between the second input voltage and the first load voltage. |
| US09049497B2 |
Signaling random access points for streaming video data
This disclosure describes techniques relevant to HTTP streaming of media data. According to these techniques, a server device may signal an open decoding refresh (ODR) random access point (RAP) for a movie segmentation of a movie representation. At least one frame of the media segmentation following the ODR RAP frame in decoding order may not be correctly decoded, and wherein each frame of the media segmentation following the ODR RAP frame in display order can be correctly decoded without relying on content of frames prior to the ODR RAP in display order. According to the techniques of this disclosure, a client device may communicate a request to a server device for the streaming of media data based on signaling of the ODR RAP. Also according to the techniques of this disclosure, a client device may commence decoding and/or playback of the movie representation based on signaling of the ODR RAP. |
| US09049495B2 |
Information processing system, information processing apparatus, control method of these, and storage medium
An information processing system comprising a transmitting apparatus and a receiving apparatus, wherein the transmitting apparatus comprises: a data embedding unit configured to generate a video signal by embedding image data in an effective display portion of the video signal and embedding control data for controlling processing to be executed using the image data in a portion of the video signal in which the image data is not embedded, and wherein the receiving apparatus comprises: a dividing unit configured to receive the video signal from the transmitting apparatus and divide the video signal into the image data and the control data. |
| US09049492B2 |
Portable terminal, video data repair method and program
A portable terminal wherein the amount of processing and power consumption when performing repair is reduced and video data can be reliably repaired, and video data repair method and program of the same. The portable terminal is provided with a video data repairer that repairs video data in which video is poor by replacing it with a portion of video data acquired from an external source, said video data repairer saving, without deleting at the time of repairing, all of partial video data necessary to decode subsequent video data continuing after the video data to be repaired, and performing control so that only the portion of the video data that is repaired is re-encoded. |
| US09049491B2 |
Method and system for power management in a frequency division multiplexed network
A network device may receive a signal from a headend, wherein a bandwidth of the received signal spans from a low frequency to a high frequency and encompasses a plurality of sub-bands. The network device may determine, based on communication with the headend, whether one of more of the sub-bands residing above a threshold frequency are available for carrying downstream data from the headend to the circuitry. The network device may digitize the signal using an ADC operating at a sampling frequency. The sampling frequency may be configured based on a result of the determining. When the sub-band(s) are available for carrying downstream data from the headend to the network device, the sampling frequency may be set to a relatively high frequency. When the sub-band(s) are not available for carrying downstream data from the headend to the network device, the sampling frequency may be set to a relatively low frequency. |
| US09049489B2 |
Differentiated PSIP table update interval technology
An apparatus, method and data structure for generating at least one table in a broadcast environment, are provided. The apparatus includes a generator to generate an event information table (EIT) and an extended text table (ETT). The ETT has program guide information for an n-hour span and has a transmission interval. The ETT has a transmission interval and program description information according to the EIT. The transmission interval of the EIT is shorter than the transmission interval of the ETT. |
| US09049487B2 |
Communication method and system for providing content to a communication device according to a user preference
A wireless communication device receives a menu selection from a user indicating a user preference to receive video with captions instead of audio. The wireless communication device transfers a message indicating the user preference to a wireless communication network. The wireless communication device receives a content selection for the video content from the user and transfers a content request for the video content to the wireless communication network. The wireless communication network obtains and modifies the video content to replace the audio with the captions and transfers the modified video content to the wireless communication device. The wireless communication device displays the modified video content with the captions and without the audio. |
| US09049486B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, program, and information processing system
An information processing apparatus includes: an acquisition target content determination unit that determines an acquisition target content item which is a target acquired by a content acquisition unit among related content items related to a reference content item, on the basis of processing performance of the content acquisition unit which acquires various content items via a communication network and can communicate with a content presentation control unit which performs a control so as to present the reference content item; and an acquisition processing unit that causes the content acquisition unit to acquire the acquisition target content item. |
| US09049484B2 |
Efficient assignment of program copies in a network digital video recorder
A remote storage digital video recorder (RS-DVR) system receives a media content file that is stored in a storage architecture of the RS-DVR system. The same stored media content file is assigned to multiple subscribers such that each of the multiple subscribers shares a common identifier that references a single common physical copy of the same stored media content file in the storage architecture of the RS-DVR system. |
| US09049482B2 |
System and method for combining computer-based educational content recording and video-based educational content recording
An interactive learning tool that combines computer-based educational content recordings and video-based educational content recordings. |
| US09049480B2 |
Methods and systems for demapping a multi-carrier signal
A method for demapping a multicarrier signal into soft bits by a receiver, comprises the steps of: calculating signal to noise ratio (“SNR”) adjustment factors (“A[segidx]”) for segments of the signal, wherein each of the segments has a predefined number of subcarriers of the signal; generating an adjusted SNR (“SNR[segidx]”) as a function of an average SNR over the subcarriers of the signal and of the calculated SNR adjustment factors; and determining the soft bits for the signal as a function of the signal, a channel estimation for the signal, and the adjusted SNR, wherein the receiver decodes the determined soft bits. |
| US09049478B2 |
System and method for implementing a dynamic media link
The disclosed system and method provide a facility for a dynamic media overlay. An end user can provide data for the dynamic media overlay that is activated upon selection to permit end users to share information while receiving or sending video data. The overlay may be in the form of a link, such as a hyperlink, that can be selected by an end user to take action indicated by information provided in the link. The link may be represented by audio or image information in the form of instructions or clickable “targets.” A content of information represented by the link can be dynamic, so that selection of the link can result in different actions, depending upon the informational content of the link. One or more flags may be provided to indicate that a new link or new informational content for a link is requested. The link may be provided in an overlay represented as a media layer provided in addition to the video media, or it may be embedded in the video media itself. |
| US09049476B1 |
Digital broadcast receiver and method for processing caption thereof
A digital cable broadcast receiver and a method for automatically processing caption data of various standards and types, is disclosed. The digital broadcast receiver includes: a demultiplexer for dividing a received broadcast stream into video data, audio data, supplementary information; a controller for determining whether caption data included in the video data is digital caption data or analog caption data on the basis of caption information included in the supplementary information, and outputting a control signal according to a result of the determining; a digital caption decoder for extracting and decoding digital caption data from the video data according to the control signal; and an analog caption decoder for extracting and decoding analog caption data from the video data according to the control signal. |
| US09049475B2 |
Digital television signal, digital television receiver, and method of processing digital television signal
A method of processing a digital television (DTV) signal in a DTV receiver, the method includes receiving a digital television signal including a plurality of extended text table (ETT) instances that appear in transport stream packets with common PID values, the ETT instances having common table ID values, each ETT instance comprising a section header and a message body, the section header containing a table identification (ID) extension field that serves to establish uniqueness of each ETT instance, the message body containing an extended text message (ETM) which provides detailed descriptions of a virtual channel or an event associated with each ETT instance, wherein the section header further contains a protocol version field indicating a protocol version and a private indicator field indicating a private indicator, demodulating the digital television signal and identifying at least one pertinent ETT instance from the plurality of ETT instances. |
| US09049472B2 |
Systems and methods for dynamic media players utilizing media traits
A media player can identify one or more elements of a media presentation and select an element of the media presentation for generating output. The elements may be identified in a playlist or elsewhere. For example, the playlist may specify a composition of a plurality of visual, audio, or other elements for generating output or other behavior in parallel and/or in series over the course of the media presentation. The media player can comprise a playback component configured to utilize at least one selectively-enabled functional component of the media player to generate output based on evaluating the trait(s) exposed by the selected element. Traits may be determined based on analyzing media types or other data regarding the elements of the presentation. |
| US09049468B2 |
Method and apparatus for identifying media content presented on a media playing device
A computing device executing a server engine receives a digital fingerprint created from a segment of a work, the work being a single rendering, the segment being less than an entirety of the work, and the digital fingerprint being based on perceptual features of the segment. The computing device compares the digital fingerprint to a plurality of digital fingerprints from a plurality of known works to identify a known work of the plurality of known works that corresponds to the work. The computing device transmits content-related data associated with the known work to a client device. |
| US09049466B2 |
Method and system for watermarking 3D content
A video transmitter identifies regions in pictures in a compressed three-dimensional (3D) video comprising a base view video and an enhancement view video. The identified regions are not referenced by other pictures in the compressed 3D video. The identified regions are watermarked. Pictures such as a high layer picture in the base view video and the enhancement view video are identified for watermarking. The identified regions in the base view and/or enhancement view videos are watermarked and multiplexed into a transport stream for transmission. An intended video receiver extracts the base view video, the enhancement view video and corresponding watermark data from the received transport stream. The corresponding extracted watermark data are synchronized with the extracted base view video and the extracted enhancement view video, respectively, for watermark insertion. The resulting base view and enhancement view videos are decoded into a left view video and a right view video, respectively. |
| US09049460B1 |
Method and apparatus for encoding video by using transformation index, and method and apparatus for decoding video by using transformation index
Encoding and decoding a video using transformation index that indicates information that indicates a structure of a transformation unit transforming data of a current coding unit. |
| US09049459B2 |
Video multi-codec encoders
Systems and methods for a video multi-codec encoder are provided. Video input data including a plurality of video frames is accepted. At least one codec Y subsystem is applied to frame data that includes at least one video frame of the plurality of video frames, where the frame data includes at least an unencoded portion of the plurality of video frames before one or more of the at least one codec Y subsystem is applied. The at least one codec Y subsystem includes at least partial Yi codec functionality. Yi is a codec selected from video codecs ={Y1, . . . , Yn}. At least one codec Z subsystem is applied to the frame data, where the at least one codec Z subsystem includes at least partial Z codec functionality. Video output data is generated including simple Z-encoded video data of the at least one video frame using the frame data. |
| US09049457B2 |
Pixel prediction for video coding
A method of encoding an input video frame into an encoded video frame comprises the steps of disassembling the input video frame into a plurality of blocks of pixels. For each block being a current block, the method further comprises generating a corresponding predicted block from already reconstructed pixels, generating a residual block by subtracting the predicted block from the current block, generating a reconstructed block from the residual block and the predicted block, and generating the encoded video frame from the residual block The method further entails creating a local structure of reconstructed pixels in a region of the predicted block and aligning the predicted block with the local structure to produce an aligned predicted block, wherein the aligned predicted block is used in the steps of generating the residual block and generating the corresponding reconstructed block. |
| US09049456B2 |
Inter-layer prediction for extended spatial scalability in video coding
An improved system and method for providing improved inter-layer prediction for extended spatial scalability in video coding, as well as improving inter-layer prediction for motion vectors in the case of extended spatial scalability. In various embodiments, for the prediction of macroblock mode, the actual reference frame index and motion vectors from the base layer are used in determining if two blocks should be merged. Additionally, multiple representative pixels in a 4×4 block can be used to represent each 4×4 block in a virtual base layer macroblock. The partition and motion vector information for the relevant block in the virtual base layer macroblock can be derived from all of the partition information and motion vectors of those 4×4 blocks. |
| US09049452B2 |
Method and apparatus for compressing coding unit in high efficiency video coding
In HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding), a 2N×2N coding unit can be partitioned into various partition types hierarchically. The coding system uses a criterion to determine the best partition, where RD-rate is often used as the criterion. N×N partition at level k becomes redundant if 2N×2N at level k+1 will be evaluated. In order to eliminate the above redundancy, the allowable partition sizes are constrained according to a method previously disclosed. In the current invention, the complexity is further reduced. According to one embodiment, N×N partition is not allowed for any INTER mode regardless of the coding unit size. Furthermore, flexibility is provided so that either the method and apparatus with further complexity reduction can be selected or an alternative method and apparatus can be selected. Syntaxes to support embodiments according to the present invention are also disclosed. |
| US09049449B2 |
Coding of frame number in scalable video coding
A method of encoding scalable video data having multiple layers where each layer in the multiple layers is associated with at least one other layer includes identifying one or more layers using a first identifier where the first identifier indicates decoding dependency, and identifying reference pictures within the identified one or more layers using a second identifier. The coding of the second identifier for pictures in a first layer is independent of pictures in a second enhancement layer. As such, for all pictures with a certain value of DependencyID, the syntax element frame_num is coded independently of other pictures with different values of DependencyID. Within all pictures with a pre-determined value of DependencyID, a default frame_num coding method is used. |
| US09049448B2 |
Bidimensional bit-rate reduction processing
Methods and systems for bidimensional video processing comprise preprocessing the video signal in horizontal and vertical dimensions of the video signal to reduce an amount of information of the video signal by low pass filtering the video signal and removing pixels to obtain an information-reduced video signal; expanding the information-reduced video signal by an expander process to produce an upconverted video signal; and comparing the upconverted video signal to the original video input to generate a support signal based on a difference between the original video signal and the upconverted video signal. Further embodiments include at least one of storing and transmitting the information-reduced video signal and the support signal; and during post-processing, processing and combining the information-reduced video signal and the support signal to generate a full information duplicate of the video signal. |
| US09049447B2 |
Video coding
Techniques are discussed for providing mechanisms for coding and transmitting high definition video, e.g., over low bandwidth connections. In particular, foreground-objects are identified as distinct from the background of a scene represented in a plurality of video frames received from a video source, such as a camera. In identifying foreground-objects, semantically significant and semantically insignificant movement (e.g., repetitive versus non-repetitive movement) is differentiated. Processing of the foreground-objects and background proceed at different update rates or frequencies. |
| US09049441B2 |
3D image display apparatus and method
A 3D image display apparatus and a 3D image display method are provided. The 3D image display apparatus generates a 2D image region and a 3D image region, forms shutter patterns for the 3D and 2D image regions, and adjusts a light emitting direction according to the shutter patterns. Accordingly, the 2D and 3D images may be selectively displayed on one screen. |
| US09049431B2 |
Method and system for generation of captions over stereoscopic 3D images
A method and system is disclosed for generating a caption relative to a three-dimensional (3D) image. The caption may be generated such that it appears relative to a screen plane of an output device used to render the 3D image. The caption may be added to left and right viewpoint images included within images used by the output device to render the 3D image as a function of the positioning of the caption relative to the screen plane. |
| US09049430B2 |
Broadcast receiver and 3D video data processing method thereof
A broadcast receiver and a 3D video data processing method are disclosed. The method includes receiving a broadcast signal including system information and video data, parsing system information of a program, and determining whether the program provides a 3D broadcast service from the system information, extracting, if the program provides a 3D broadcast service, broadcast data of the program, and processing video data of broadcast data according to the system information. The broadcast receiver includes a receiving unit receiving a broadcast signal including system information and video data, an SI processor parsing system information of a program, and determining whether the program provides a 3D broadcast service from the system information, a demultiplexer extracting, if the program provides a 3D broadcast service, broadcast data of the program, and a video processor processing video data of the broadcast data according to system information. |
| US09049425B2 |
Stereoscopic image processing method and system
A method is provided for a three-dimensional (3D) image processing system including a stereoscopic display device. The method includes providing a stereoscopic image and obtaining a parallax range of the stereoscopic image and a parallax range supported by the stereoscopic display device. The method also includes determining a parallax operation to adjust the parallax range of the stereoscopic image based on the relationship between the parallax range of the stereoscopic image and the parallax range supported by the stereoscopic display device. Further, the method includes determining an offset value and an offset direction of a horizontal coordinate of each pixel of the stereoscopic image, and shifting the horizontal coordinate of each pixel of the stereoscopic image by the offset value and in the offset direction. |
| US09049424B2 |
Recording medium storing display control program for controlling display capable of providing stereoscopic display, display system, display control method, and display
An exemplary embodiment provides a program for controlling a display capable of providing stereoscopic display. The program includes image output instructions for outputting an image for left eye and an image for right eye to the display, parallax calculation instructions for calculating parallax produced when an object is displayed on the display, and movement-and-display instructions for carrying out at least one of movement of a displayed object out of an effective display range and movement of a not-displayed object into the effective display range in accordance with the calculated parallax. |
| US09049423B2 |
Zero disparity plane for feedback-based three-dimensional video
The techniques of this disclosure are directed to the feedback-based stereoscopic display of three-dimensional images, such as may be used for video telephony (VT) and human-machine interface (HMI) application. According to one example, a region of interest (ROI) of stereoscopically captured images may be automatically determined based on determining disparity for at least one pixel of the captured images are described herein. According to another example, a zero disparity plane (ZDP) for the presentation of a 3D representation of stereoscopically captured images may be determined based on an identified ROI. According to this example, the ROI may be automatically identified, or identified based on receipt of user input identifying the ROI. |
| US09049422B2 |
Data throttling to facilitate full frame readout of an optical sensor for wafer testing
Providing for operation of high-speed optical sensor equipment at full data path speeds in conjunction with testing equipment operating at a lower speed is described herein. By way of example, a data stream output from optical sensor equipment to testing equipment can be throttled at a serial interface between such equipment. Throttling can involve subdividing a set of pixel data and outputting a subset of the pixel data in a given readout frame. Consecutive outputs of respective subsets of pixel data are initiated with an offset from the previous readout frame. Accordingly, the optical sensor equipment can be operated at full speeds, simulating realistic operational conditions, while slower testing equipment can be utilized to perform data analytics, heuristics, and other quality tests on various portions of the optical sensor equipment. |
| US09049417B2 |
Pseudo-video creation device, pseudo-video creation method, and pseudo-video creation program
[Problem] To make it easy to grasp how an object has changed over time.[Solution] Let “one still image” and “the other still image” refer to two still images taken of one object at different times. In the present invention, the “other still image” is superimposed on top of the “one still image” and the transparency of the other still image is varied as shown in FIG. 2(a) or (b). The displayed still image thus gradually changes from one to the other, resulting in the creation of a pseudo-video from said two still images. This makes it easier, in comparison to simply lining up the two still images and comparing them (that is, comparing the two still images to each other and looking for places in which change over time occurred), to grasp how the object changed over time. |
| US09049412B2 |
System and method for projecting video onto a screen
The disclosed embodiments relate to a system and method for projecting video onto a screen. A video unit (10) may comprise a plurality of light emitting diodes (40a, 40b, and 40c) disposed in an annular formation (41) and configured to produce light (44), a reflector configured to reflect the produced light from at least one of the plurality of light emitting diodes (40a, 40b, and 40c), and a plurality of optical components disposed in an annular formation, wherein each of the optical components corresponds to one of the light emitting diodes (40a, 40b, and 40c), wherein each of the optical components is configured to focus the produced light at the reflector. |
| US09049410B2 |
Color correction to compensate for displays' luminance and chrominance transfer characteristics
Displays are provided with circuitry performing color correction to compensate for the displays' luminance and chrominance transfer characteristics. Some techniques are suitable for RGBW displays and for subpixel-rendered displays. Some displays include an external light source (e.g. a backlight unit in LCDs), and the color correction is coordinated with dynamic control of the light source. |
| US09049402B2 |
Method of synchronizing the playback of an audio broadcast on a plurality of network output devices
Method of synchronizing the playback of an audio broadcast on a plurality of network output devices. The present invention relates to method of synchronizing the playback of an audio broadcast on a plurality of network output devices. Said method comprises the steps of: detecting (11) a set of network output devices located in a same neighborhood which are able to play the audio broadcast, selecting (12) at least one network output device from among the set of network output devices, preventing (13) the network output devices of the set other than the at least one selected network output device to play the audio broadcast. |
| US09049397B2 |
Image processing device and image processing method
A face detection processing unit performs a face detection process by rotating an image in increments of a predetermined angle and acquires a rotation angle at which a face is detected. An angle correction unit acquires an angle between the face and a shoulder by pattern matching and corrects the rotation angle of the image. A human-image orientation identification unit identifies a correct orientation of a human image based on the rotation angle. An image-characteristic analysis unit analyzes a frequency distribution and a brightness distribution of a non-human image. A non-human image orientation identification unit identifies the correct orientation of a non-human image based on distribution characteristics of a frequency of brightness with respect to an axis in a predetermined direction. An image-data updating unit incorporates information regarding the correct orientation in the image data. |
| US09049396B2 |
Creating composite images based on image capture device poses corresponding to captured images
An exemplary method for creating a composite image includes the steps of capturing a plurality of images with an image capture device which includes a sensor, determining an image capture device pose corresponding to each of the images based on data from the sensor, transforming each of the images based on its corresponding pose, projecting the transformed images to a common projection space, and combining the projected images to form a composite image. |
| US09049393B2 |
Solid state imaging device and electronic apparatus
Provided is a solid state imaging device including: a pixel portion where pixel sharing units are disposed in an array shape and where another one pixel transistor group excluding transfer transistors is shared by a plurality of photoelectric conversion portions; transfer wiring lines which are connected to the transfer gate electrodes of the transfer transistors of the pixel sharing unit and which are disposed to extend in a horizontal direction and to be in parallel in a vertical direction as seen from the top plane; and parallel wiring lines which are disposed to be adjacent to the necessary transfer wiring lines in the pixel sharing unit and which are disposed to be in parallel to the transfer wiring lines as seen from the top plane, wherein voltages which are used to suppress potential change of the transfer gate electrodes are supplied to the parallel wiring lines. |
| US09049391B2 |
Capturing and processing of near-IR images including occlusions using camera arrays incorporating near-IR light sources
A camera array, an imaging device and/or a method for capturing image that employ a plurality of imagers fabricated on a substrate is provided. Each imager includes a plurality of pixels. The plurality of imagers include a first imager having a first imaging characteristics and a second imager having a second imaging characteristics. The images generated by the plurality of imagers are processed to obtain an enhanced image compared to images captured by the imagers. Each imager may be associated with an optical element fabricated using a wafer level optics (WLO) technology. |
| US09049389B2 |
Imaging apparatus and imaging system
An AD converting unit compares an output signal from an amplifier circuit after reset of a pixel with a reference signal of time-variable, outputs a first digital value, when the output signal from the amplifier circuit in a non-reset state of the pixel is larger than a threshold, sets a gain of the amplifier circuit to a first gain, when the output signal is smaller than the threshold, sets the gain of the amplifier circuit to a second gain larger than the first gain, further after the gain of the amplifier circuit was set to the first or second gain, compares the output signal from the amplifier circuit in the non-reset state of the pixel with the reference signal of time-variable, and outputs a second digital value. When resolutions of the first and second digital values differ, a correcting unit corrects a difference between the resolutions. |
| US09049388B2 |
Methods and systems for annotating images based on special events
A method for associating event times or time periods with digital images in a collection for determining if a digital image is of interest, includes storing a collection of digital images each having an associated capture time; comparing the associated capture time in the collection with a special event time to determine if a digital image in the collection is of interest, wherein the comparing step includes calculation of a special event time associated with a special event based on the calendar time associated with the special event and using such information to perform the comparison step; and associating digital images of interest with the special event. |
| US09049384B2 |
Video processing apparatus, camera apparatus, video processing method, and program
A video processing apparatus analyzes an input video input from a video input unit, detects a plurality of moving bodies included in the input video, determines a main moving body and a sub moving body, and determines a sub picture position for superimposing and displaying a sub video in a main video in a picture-in-picture form. This video processing apparatus performs cut-out processing on the main video and the sub video from the input video, and synthesizes the cut-out main video and sub video to generate a picture-in-picture synthesized video in which the sub video is superimposed at the sub picture position of the main video in the picture-in-picture form. The picture-in-picture synthesized video is output in one stream. |
| US09049383B2 |
Method and apparatus for displaying photo on screen having any shape
Provided are a method and an apparatus for displaying a photo on a screen having any shape. The method includes: extracting photographing information about a photo having a first shape; adjusting the photo for display with a shape optimized for a screen having a second shape, based on the extracted photographing information; and displaying the adjusted photo on the screen. |
| US09049382B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method
There is a provided an image processing apparatus comprising an image generation unit to generate a processed image using an image group having a plurality of images captured from multiple view points, a first image recognition unit to recognize a particular object from the processed image, a second image recognition unit to recognize respective objects which appear in the image group, a determination unit to compare the results by the first and second image recognition units and to determine an object of interest and an object of noninterest, and an attribute generation unit to generate attribute information including the result of determination by the determination unit, in the processed image. |
| US09049378B2 |
Accessory, camera, accessory shoe, and connector
An accessory capable of communicating with a camera, includes a terminal section having a plurality of terminals. The plurality of terminals include a startup state providing terminal that provides, to the camera, a detection level by which the camera detects that the accessory is capable of being started up, a data signal terminal that outputs a data signal including information regarding the accessory to the camera, and a first reference potential terminal having a reference potential of the detection level and the data signal. The startup state providing terminal is disposed adjacent to the data signal terminal, and the first reference potential terminal is adjacent to the data signal terminal, and is disposed with the data signal terminal interposed between the startup state providing terminal and the first reference potential terminal. |
| US09049377B2 |
Image taking device and image taking method
Provided is an image taking device having high image taking efficiency when a plurality of images are continuously taken. The image taking device comprises an image taking unit which performs image capturing processing and processing for creating a taken image, a first image processing unit which creates a live view image from a captured image captured by the image taking unit, a second image processing unit which creates a preview image from the taken image, a third image processing unit which performs processing for storing the taken image, and a display unit which displays the live view image and displays the preview image. |
| US09049368B2 |
Imaging device and imaging method including predictive composition
An imaging device includes an imaging unit, a display unit, a position acquisition unit, a map information acquisition unit, a composition prediction unit, and a display control unit. The imaging unit acquires a subject image within an imaging range. The display unit displays an image. The position acquisition unit acquires a present location. The map information acquisition unit acquires map information including the present location. The composition prediction unit calculates a predictive composition based on the present location and the map information. The display control unit causes the display unit to display the predictive composition. |
| US09049366B2 |
Apparatus and method for driving a voice coil motor of a camera lens
The present invention relates to a device and method for driving an under damped voice coil motor (VCM) actuator of a camera lens. In one embodiment, the device for driving an under damped VCM actuator comprises a first generator operable to read a first manufacture data from an image signal processor (ISP) and to generate a half natural period, ½ Td, of the VCM actuator by selecting a value approximate to the first data in a first table of the device, a second generator operable to read a second manufacture data from the ISP and to generate the maximum overshoot, K, of the VCM actuator by selecting a value approximate to the second data in a second table of the device, an input shaping signal generator operable to read an input signal corresponding to a desired camera lens moving distance from the ISP and to generate a shaping signal according to the value of the half natural period and the maximum overshoot. The input shaping signal may be produced from second order, third order and fourth order input shaping function. The present invention also provides a simple implementation of a driver configuration to achieve a fast camera lens focus speed, yet robust to tolerate actual system deviation from a manufacture design. |
| US09049364B2 |
Focus adjusting method and image capture device thereof
By determining using a linear adjustment, a directional adjustment, or a focus scan adjustment on a movable lens unit according to which range region the sharpness of a digital image or a region of interest of the digital image falls in, best focus control performance may be simply and rapidly fulfilled. |
| US09049363B2 |
Digital photographing apparatus, method of controlling the same, and computer-readable storage medium
Embodiments of the invention provide a digital photographing apparatus including a user interface provider for providing a user interface including: a display region for displaying a live-view image or a reproduced image; a first region for providing at least one pre-set menu; and a second region for providing at least one user set menu set by a user. |
| US09049361B2 |
Illumination device capable of having optical accessory attached forward of light emission section thereof, image pickup system, film holder, light emission control device, and light emission control method
Light emission control makes it possible to determine an appropriate main light emission amount even when an optical accessory that changes color characteristics of transmitted light is attached forward of a light emission section of an illumination device. A strobe capable of having a color filter attached thereto, which changes color characteristics of transmitted light. The strobe includes a strobe microcomputer that acquires information on characteristics of the color filter attached forward of the light emission section, and transmits the acquired information on the characteristics to an image pickup apparatus on which the strobe is mounted. |
| US09049360B2 |
Mobile terminal and control method of mobile terminal
A mobile terminal including a wireless communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate with at least one other terminal; a camera configured to output a camera preview image; a display unit configured to display the camera preview image output by the camera; and a controller configured to set a reference region on the display unit, and to output position information regarding positions of an object included in the camera preview image and the set reference region. |
| US09049358B2 |
Camera extension apparatus and method using a switch for taking pictures at a distance from a user
The invention is a camera holder extension that includes a telescoping extension to allow a user to take photos at a distance beyond the reach of the user. The invention includes an actuator switch, located in the handle of the extension, which is wired to be in communication with a digital camera integrated device. The actuator switch operates the exposure function of the camera at the distance beyond the reach of the user via a wired digital connection to the device. The invention also includes a lockable two part ball joint that enables articulation of the camera into various positions. |
| US09049357B2 |
Collapsible viewing device for camera LCD screen
A collapsible viewing device for a camera LCD screen includes a base having an open camera end that is sized to fit around an associated camera display screen. An eyepiece opposite the base allows for viewing an image on the associated camera display screen. A flexible, light-blocking sidewall extends between the base and the eyepiece. The viewing device is configurable between an expanded use disposition in which the eyepiece is spaced from the base and a collapsed, compact disposition in which the sidewall is non-hingedly collapsed into the base. |
| US09049353B2 |
Time-delay-and-integrate image sensors having variable integration times
In various embodiments, a time-delay-and-integrate (TDI) image sensor includes (i) a plurality of integrating CCDs (ICCDs), arranged in parallel, that accumulate photocharge in response to exposure to light, (ii) electrically coupled to the plurality of ICCDs, a readout CCD (RCCD) for receiving photocharge from the plurality of ICCDs, and (iii) electrically coupled to the RCCD, readout circuitry for converting charge received from the RCCD into voltage. |
| US09049345B2 |
Method and system for monitoring a display venue
A method and system for monitoring a display venue are disclosed. One method involves receiving information generated by an audience in response to a request associated with content provided to the audience at a display venue, and determining at least one condition at the display venue based on the information. |
| US09049344B2 |
Method and system for providing content
Methods and systems for providing content. A selection of a single virtual channel may be received from the user. Virtual programming data for the single virtual channel may be accessed. The virtual programming data may define content to be provided over the single virtual channel. The content may be provided over the single virtual channel in accordance with the virtual programming data. |
| US09049343B2 |
Method, device and system for presenting virtual conference site of video conference
A method for presenting a virtual conference site of a video conference is disclosed in the present invention. The method include: receiving preset virtual conference site attributes and determining one virtual conference site attribute therefrom, where the virtual conference site includes at least two conference terminals; determining a virtual conference site control mode; acquiring, according to the determined virtual conference site attribute and the virtual conference site control mode, one virtual conference site presentation mode in preset virtual conference site presentation modes, and presenting a virtual conference site in the acquired virtual conference site presentation mode. A virtual conference site preset apparatus, a media processing device, a video conference terminal and a video conference system are also disclosed in the present invention. By utilizing the present invention, a conference control mode may be simplified, and the experience of video conference participators may be improved. |
| US09049339B2 |
Method for operating a conference system and device for a conference system
A device for a conference system and method for operation thereof is provided. The device is configured to receive a first audio signal and a first identifier associated with a first participant. The device is further configured to receive a second audio signal and a second identifier associated with a second participant. The device includes a filter configured to filter the received first audio signal and the received second audio signal and to output a filtered signal to a number of electroacoustic transducers. The device includes a control unit connected to the filter. The control unit is configured to control one or more first filter coefficients based on the first identifier and to control one or more second filter coefficients based on the second identifier. Preferably the device comprises a headtracker function for changing the first and second filter coefficients depending on tracking of head's position. |
| US09049335B2 |
Image scanning apparatus, method for discrimination of color and computer-readable recording medium
An image scanning apparatus includes a scanner configured to scan a manuscript and generate a plurality of scan images; a discriminator configured to calculate a color ratio regarding each of the generated plurality of scan images, compare the calculated color ratio and a predetermined reference value, and discriminate color or black and white regarding each of the generated plurality of scan images; and a controller configured to control the discriminator so that a same discrimination is performed regarding ‘a scan image having a color ratio within a predetermined range including the predetermined reference value’ of among the plurality of scan images. |
| US09049333B2 |
Optical detecting device and related method of synchronization adjustment
A method of synchronization adjustment is applied to an optical detecting device, so as to synchronize an exposure timing sequence of an image detector with a light emitting timing sequence of an indicating light source. The method includes acquiring a continued image set, analyzing intensity of each image of the continued image set, and adjusting the exposure timing sequence according to duty cycle of the image detector and intensity ratio of at least two images. An exposure frequency of the image detector is greater than a flickering frequency of the indicating light source. |
| US09049331B2 |
Electronic device and computer program product
An electronic device has, as operation modes, a first mode and a second mode reduced in power consumption from the first mode. The electronic device includes a main unit an operation of which is suppressed in the second mode; and a sub-unit. The sub-unit includes a communicating unit that performs communication via a communication line; and an operation mode controller that changes the operation modes from the second mode to the first mode when the communication with a predefined prescribed device is requested during the second mode and changes the operation modes from the first mode to the second mode at a timing corresponding to termination of the communication. |
| US09049329B2 |
Multifunction printing device
A small, compact multifunction printing device provides excellent ease of use with little possibility of slips and continuous paper jamming inside. The multifunction printer has a check processing unit and a continuous paper processing unit. The check processing unit has a U-shaped check conveyance path that opens to the front of the printer and enables handling slips to be processed and the processed slips from the front of the printer. A continuous paper conveyance path that conveys continuous paper fed from a paper roll in the roll paper compartment from the back to the front of the printer is formed on the inside of the check conveyance path, enabling replacing roll paper and removing processed continuous paper from the front. The conveyance paths are independent of each other, the printing positions thereof are separated, and conveyed slips and continuous paper will not interfere with each other. |
| US09049325B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus is provided. The image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit, a display unit, which is configured to display information, an electric substrate, which is configured to manipulate the display unit to display the information, a cover, which is formed to have an opening in a position corresponding to the display unit, and an insulating sheet, which is arranged to cover the opening and includes a first sheet and a second sheet, the first sheet and the second sheet being arranged to interpose the cover in there-between. The first sheet is arranged on one of two sides of the cover closer to the display unit. The second sheet is arranged on an opposite side of the cover further from the display unit. |
| US09049323B2 |
Data processing apparatus, content displaying method, and non-transitory computer-readable recording medium encoded with content displaying program
A data processing apparatus includes a position detecting portion capable of detecting a position designated by a user, and a control portion which includes a content displaying portion to display a display area of content and a gesture event determining portion to determine a gesture event. The content displaying portion includes a display image generating portion, and a display control portion to display the display image. The display image generating portion includes a state storing portion to store state information for specifying the display area at a time point of start of a gesture period, and a prioritized displaying portion operable, when a first gesture event changing the display area and a second gesture event not changing the display area are determined during the gesture period, to generate a display image for displaying the display area specified by the state information, on the basis of the second gesture event. |
| US09049319B2 |
Image communication apparatus wirelessly connectable to other apparatuses, system having the image communication apparatus, and method for controlling the same
A wireless mode between a scanner and an image communication apparatus is changed, in response to completion of image transmission from the scanner to the image communication apparatus, completion of print of the image sent from the scanner to the image communication apparatus, completion of transmission via a communication line connected to the image communication apparatus of the image sent from the scanner to the image communication apparatus, instructions to stop print of the image sent from the scanner to the image communication apparatus, instructions to stop transmission via the communication line connected to the image communication apparatus of the image sent from the scanner to the image communication apparatus, and states of the scanner and the image communication apparatus at a predetermined time and so on. For example, a low power consumption mode and communication mode of Bluetooth communication are switched to each other. |
| US09049312B2 |
Interactive tool for incorporating user input and feedback in image quality related diagnosis
The presently disclosed embodiment provides an interactive tool for printed image artifact characterization that successfully combines the advantages from both a human visual system and automated image quality characterization. In the interactive tool provided, the user may specify coarse level information, such as the region of interest in a print image, to be examined by the automated image-quality characterization algorithm, which can then employ sophisticated algorithms, e.g. signal processing, feature extraction, estimation and classification, to find precise fine-level descriptors. |
| US09049309B2 |
Cloud based contact center platform powered by individual multi-party conference rooms
The present disclosure includes a system and method for handling customer service requests in a virtual computing environment supporting multimedia interactions. In some embodiments, the system includes an automated management tool for receiving a customer service request from a client device, a server for establishing an individualized communication session, and a plurality of available resources capable of being connected to the individualized communication session. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving and establishing a connection between an automated management tool and a client device, receiving a customer service request from the client device, establishing an individualized communication session, and providing resources to the individualized communication session. |
| US09049307B2 |
Wireless interface device allowing a reliable digital and audio communication transfer between a security system, POTS and/or IP network modem device
A system, method process and apparatus is presented for interfacing digital and audio communications in a security system, comprising, a control panel having one or more first radio receiver/transceivers and one or more remote alarm sensors coupled to the control panel and the control panel receiving one or more digital reports from each one or more remote alarm sensors, a wireless interface device having one or more second radio receiver/transceivers for receiving the digital reports from the control panel unit and for establishing two-way voice communication between the control panel and the wireless interface unit, one or more telephone units coupled to the wireless interface device for communicating with the wireless interface unit and at least one POTS and/or IP network modem device coupled to the wireless interface device, an IP network, wherein, the wireless interface device includes a communication processing unit for transmitting one or more digital reports to a monitoring service via the POTS and/or IP network and for establishing two-way voice communication between the control panel and the monitoring service via a voice channel connection. |
| US09049306B1 |
Apparatus and methods for remote control of access to facilities
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for simplifying and improving the reliability of communication between end users and access control systems such as those that include door and/or gate controllers, tenant access to buildings, and the like. In certain embodiments using an analog modem at the controller end of the system, the corresponding remote analog modem (which communicates with that analog modem at the controller end) is not within the direct control of the end user, and the end user's communicates instead via the user's standard hardware/software for communicating generally, such as via the Internet. Depending on the application, the control data can be maintained and/or synched at any selected combination or sub-combination of several locations: (1) the user's local system; (2) an intermediate server system; and/or (3) the controller end system. Preferred communication connections between the components provide improved ease of installation and use and reliability, as compared to prior art systems in which an end user's analog modem must be configured to directly communicate with a corresponding analog modem on a selected control device (such as a gate or door controller). Corresponding telephone/voice control preferably is also provided within the system, via POTS, a cellular telephone connection, VoIP, etc. |
| US09049305B2 |
Granular control system
A method may include receiving, from a first party, restrictions associated with each of a number of applications stored on a mobile device and storing the restrictions, wherein the restrictions include time based restrictions and/or use based restrictions. The method also includes receiving, from a user of the mobile device, a request for access to a first application and providing access to the first application in response to the request. The method further includes receiving, from the user, a second request for performing a first action by the first application and determining whether first action is permitted based on the stored restrictions. |
| US09049302B2 |
Portable multifunction device, method, and graphical user interface for managing communications received while in a locked state
A computer-implemented method, performed at a portable multifunction device with a display, includes: receiving a plurality of communications via a plurality of communication modalities while the device is in a locked state; and detecting an unlock interaction by the user with the device. In response to detecting the unlock interaction, the method further includes unlocking the device and presenting a communication, or information about the communication, in the plurality of communications that was received while the device was in the locked state. The presented communication or information is presented in accordance with the corresponding communication modality. |
| US09049301B2 |
Method for noise removal of ear phone in portable terminal and apparatus thereof
Provided is a method of removing an earphone noise of a portable terminal includes: recognizing a connection of an earphone through an interface unit; applying power to a mike bias port in case the earphone is recognized; sensing a signal which indicating a detachment of the earphone from the interface unit during applying power to the mike bias port; and discharging the power of the mike bias port when the detachment occurs. |
| US09049300B1 |
Telephonic privacy systems
Methods for protecting telephone privacy are provided that utilize the phone number of the other party to a telephone call to automatically determine whether privacy protection is necessary and to automatically take measures to protect the user's privacy. Particular versions, such as an app for a smart phone that performs the methods, are also provided. |
| US09049299B2 |
Using audio signals to identify when client devices are co-located
A technique manages an online meeting. The technique includes providing an audio output signal to a first client device currently participating in the online meeting. The audio output signal directs the first client device to play a particular sound (e.g., a unique tone or a unique series of tones). The technique further involves receiving an audio input signal from a second client device. The audio input signal includes the particular sound. The technique further involves identifying the second client device as being co-located with the first client device in response to the audio input signal which includes the particular sound. Such operation enables the electronic circuitry (e.g., a processing circuit of an online meeting server) to learn whether any client devices are co-located and accordingly associate multiple devices to a single user connected to the online meeting. |
| US09049294B1 |
Methods and systems for speed dialing
Systems and methods enable configuring and using speed dialing. A first user interface is displayed to a user, the first user interface providing a name field configured to display and/or receive a contact name and a phone address field configured to display and/or receive a phone address associated with the contact name. A speed dial field configured to receive and/or display a speed dial identifier associated with the phone address is provided. When the user later enters speed dial identifier via a telephone, the phone address is called. |
| US09049293B2 |
Performing proximity based routing of a phone call
A method, system, and computer program for routing an incoming voice call in real time is presented. A call is received from a caller to an intended receiving wireless telecommunication device. In response to the call failing to connect to the intended receiving wireless telecommunication device, a short range wireless query signal is transmitted to determine if an other wireless communication device is within a predefined proximity to the intended receiving wireless telecommunication device. If the intended receiving wireless telecommunication device receives a response from the other wireless telecommunication device indicating that the other wireless telecommunication device is within the predefined proximity to the intended receiving wireless telecommunication device, then the call is rerouted to the other wireless telecommunication device. |