| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09314426B2 |
Method for preventing nasolacrimal duct obstruction
The invention is directed to a method for preventing nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) in a patient receiving high dose radioactive iodine for treatment of cancer. The method includes administering an effective amount of perchlorate anion to the eyes of the patient. |
| US09314425B2 |
Ophthalmic compositions and methods for treating ophthalmic conditions
Compositions, and methods of using such compositions, useful for placement, for example injection, into the interior of human or animal eyes are provided. Such compositions include a therapeutic component, such as one or more corticosteroids, a biocompatible polymeric component, and a solvent component. The composition is in a fluid form before placement in the interior of an eye, and becomes less fluid after the composition is placed in the eye to form an extended or delayed release drug delivery element or system. The drug delivery element is formed by the dissipation of the solvent from the composition when the composition is placed in the interior of an eye. One example of a composition includes triamcinolone acetonide as a therapeutic agent. A method of treating an ophthalmic condition, or otherwise improving or enhancing vision of a patient, comprises placing the fluid composition in the interior of the eye. The method may be practiced by injecting the fluid composition into the interior of the eye. |
| US09314424B2 |
Pastes for injection of a therapeutic agent
Disclosed is a paste for injection of a therapeutic agent, the paste comprising an amount of powder comprising an effective amount of the therapeutic agent, wherein the powder is homogeneously contained within a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, and wherein the paste comprises an injection volume of 0.1 to 3000 microliters. |
| US09314421B2 |
Ultrasound-enhanced intrascleral delivery of macromolecules
The present invention provides a novel system and method for transscleral delivery of therapeutic agents, including macromolecules, into a target site in intrascleral space using ultrasound. Advantageously, the present invention not only significantly enhances transscleral diffusivity of macromolecular therapeutic agents, but also causes little damages to ocular tissues and structure. |
| US09314415B2 |
Skin lightening compositions
Compositions and methods for lightening and/or depigmenting skin are provided, the compositions comprising compounds having the structure: or having the structure: as defined herein. |
| US09314411B2 |
Silica abrasive-free dentifrice composition
A dentifrice composition providing superior shine and polish, low RDA and effective whitening comprising a calcined aluminum oxide polishing agent, a water soluble condensed phosphate such as an alkali metal phosphate salt and an orally acceptable carrier or excipient is described. The composition is free of a silica abrasive. |
| US09314410B2 |
Oral care compositions comprising phytic acid
An oral care composition comprising a stannous ion source and/or a zinc ion source; a phytic acid or a phytic acid salt or mixtures thereof; characterized in that the phytic acid or phytic acid salt has an average IPn of greater than 5.2. In a composition which comprises stannous, there is a decrease in soluble stannous whilst maintaining an equivalent efficacy to a composition comprising a higher level of soluble stannous and efficacy is observed for avoiding stain and astringency problems. When zinc ions are present, it has been surprisingly found that a decrease in soluble zinc can provide an equivalent antimicrobial efficacy to a composition comprising a greater level of soluble zinc. |
| US09314406B2 |
Medicine supply apparatus
A tablet supplying portion of a medicine supply apparatus includes a tablet supplying portion body including a supply cell, a bottom plate, and a bottom plate supporting member. A lower opening portion of the supply cell is opened and closed by the bottom plate. The bottom plate supporting member can restrict a pivotal movement of the bottom plate. The tablet supplying portion body and the bottom plate supporting member are relatively movable in a horizontal direction. The bottom plate pivotally moves between a state where the lower opening portion is blocked from opening and an opened state, along with this relative movement. In a state where the bottom plate closes the lower opening portion, at least part of an upper surface of the bottom plate is located higher, whereas a lower surface in a periphery of the lower opening portion is located lower. |
| US09314400B1 |
Perineal massage assembly
A perineal massage assembly facilitates heating and stimulation of a perneal area to promote health and healing. The assembly includes an elongated pad having a top layer and a bottom layer. The pad is positioned adjacent to a perineum and anus of a person. The top layer of the pad is coupled to the bottom layer of the pad around a perimeter edge of the pad defining an interior space within the pad. A first vibratory motor is coupled to the pad and positioned in the interior space of the pad. A heating element is coupled to the pad and positioned in the interior space of the pad. A control unit is operationally coupled to the first vibratory motor and the heating element for selectively activating the first vibratory motor and the heating element. |
| US09314399B2 |
Implantable electroacupuncture system and method for treating dyslipidemia and obesity
An Implantable ElectroAcupuncture System (IEAS) treats dyslipidemia or obesity through application of stimulation pulses applied at at least one of acupoints ST36, SP4, ST37, ST40, SP6, SP9, K16, or LR8, or underlying nerves saphenous or peroneal. The IEAS includes an hermetically-sealed implantable electroacupuncture (EA) device having at least two electrodes located outside of its housing. The housing contains a primary power source, pulse generation circuitry, and a sensor that wirelessly senses externally-generated operating commands. The pulse generation circuitry generates stimulation pulses as controlled, at least in part, by the operating commands sensed through the sensor. The stimulation pulses are applied to the specified acupoint or nerve through the electrodes in accordance with a specified stimulation regimen. Such stimulation regimen requires that the stimulation session be applied at a very low duty cycle not greater than 0.05. |
| US09314398B2 |
Emergency wash system
An emergency wash system configured to dispense a fluid is disclosed. The system comprises a receptacle and a dispenser assembly disposed at least partially over the receptacle. The dispenser assembly comprises a fluid inlet portion configured to extend in a substantially horizontal direction when in use and configured to be in fluid communication with a fluid supply. The dispenser assembly also comprises a first outlet portion defining at least one first discharge opening, a second outlet portion defining at least one second discharge opening, a first fluid riser extending upwardly and outwardly from the inlet portion towards the at least one first discharge opening and a second fluid riser extending upwardly and outwardly from the inlet the first fluid riser towards the at least one second discharge opening on a side of the fluid inlet portion opposite the first fluid riser. |
| US09314397B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling transducers to provide a vibracoustic experience
This disclosure relates to a vibroacoustic water system. The water system includes a reservoir configured to contain water and comprising a wall. The water system further includes four transducers mounted against the wall of the reservoir. The four transducers are configured to receive an input signal and to generate vibrations within water contained in the reservoir by vibrating the wall of the reservoir. The four transducers are mounted in a configuration such that, when the wall is partitioned into four sections, only a single transducer is mounted against each section of the wall and no other transducers are mounted against the wall. |
| US09314396B2 |
Tractal erectile device and seal cap
A tractal erectile device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the device includes a hollow vessel having a first opening for receiving an organ, and a second opening for releasing fluid from within the vessel. The hollow vessel may include: an integral smooth lip portion surrounding the first opening for receiving an organ; an elongated cylindrical portion connected to the lip portion, an hour-glass portion connected to the elongated portion, and an ellipsoid shaped end portion including the second opening for releasing fluid from within the vessel. |
| US09314391B2 |
Joint for articulations with pseudo-elastic elements
A joint for articulations with pseudo-elastic elements comprising a pair of coupled box-shaped elements (13, 14), facing each other in an open surface, moveable and rotating with respect to each other, around a common longitudinal axis (15) and containing a spring-charged pseudo-elastic element (12) which causes the reciprocal rotation, the box-shaped elements (13, 14) carrying an arm (20, 25) facing outwardly for connection with associated portions of an articulation and including stop elements (21, 32; 132, 20) of their rotation. The spring-charged pseudo-elastic element (12) comprises a curved portion, more or less closed to form a ring (36) and two straight portions (37) terminating in ends (23, 34), inserted into holes (22, 33) of the box-shaped elements (13, 14), the straight portions (37) being intersected to obtain a pre-charge before being inserted into the holes (22, 33). |
| US09314390B2 |
Tattoo arm rest
A tattoo arm rest includes an arm pad, a ball swivel coupled to the arm pad, a rectangular stem support coupled to the ball swivel, a corner pinch vise having a locking member located to lock the rectangular stem support vertically in place. A rectangular vertical support column is sized to slidingly receive the stem support, wherein the rectangular vertical support column and rectangular stem support are substantially telescoping rectangular tubes, wherein the rectangular vertical support column has a support block affixed thereto with a hole for accepting the corner pinch vise locking bolt. A foot rest is affixed proximate the bottom of the vertical support column. Support legs are configured in a tripod arrangement and attached to the vertical support column. |
| US09314385B2 |
Piece of furniture, such as an adjustable bed, having an adjustable platform
An adjustable bed includes a main frame which supports a mattress platform, a fixed frame base having wheels mounted thereto for displacement thereof on a floor surface, and a lift mechanism interconnecting the main frame and the fixed frame base. The lift mechanism supports the main frame and is actuated to displace and position the main frame between a fully collapsed position and a fully elevated position relative to the fixed frame base without any longitudinal displacement of the bed. The main frame, the fixed base and the lift mechanism collapse into a low profile bed configuration in the fully collapsed position, such that the mattress platform is located at a minimum vertical height of at most 9 inches above the floor surface. |
| US09314382B2 |
Incontinence pad
Particular embodiments of the inventive technology may provide an incontinence pad that includes projection, such as a raised ridge, or a short length projection, that extends from a pad base of and effects application of a force against the urethra of a user (the force, typically upward, that may result from sitting by the user and/or tight fitting shorts and/or pulling a cord attached to the projection); the projection may act to transfer a force from the projection to the urethra. This force may partially or entirely obstruct flow of urine through, or out of the urethra, that might occur otherwise (i.e., without the projection). Another example of the many independent aspects of the inventive technology relates to the provision, as part of an incontinence pad, of a cord that is attached to part of the pad, such as (in only certain embodiments) the aforementioned upward projection. |
| US09314381B2 |
Capacitive wetness sensor and method for manufacturing the same
A sensor device for sensing wetness in an absorbent article worn by a subject includes one or more sensing elements; and a coupling for communicating sensor signals between the one or more sensing elements and a receiver. A change in environmental parameter causes a change in electrical behavior of at least one of the sensing elements, which behavior can be analyzed to determine occurrence of a wetness event in the absorbent article. The changes in electrical behavior are communicated in the sensor signals to the receiver. The analysis may be by the receiver or a processor in communication with the receiver. Ideally, the sensing elements include capacitive elements and preferably, resonance circuits. |
| US09314379B2 |
Apparatus for making bodily fluid absorbent pad
A bodily fluid absorbent pad has a shape symmetric in a longitudinal direction as well as in a transverse direction. A dimension of the pad in the transverse direction is larger in opposite end regions than in an intermediate region. The pad is formed along opposite side edges with first and second compressed lines. Paired compression rolls are used to form the first and second compressed lines, and at least one roll constituting the paired compression rolls is formed on a peripheral surface thereof with compressing units projecting from the peripheral surface. The compressing units are arranged in a circumferential direction to form one row and at least one additional row adjacent to the one row in an axial direction of the roll. There is an offset between the compressing unit in the one row and the compressing units in the other row in the circumferential direction. |
| US09314377B2 |
Evaporative fluid pouch and systems for use with body fluids
An inline storage-and-liquid-processing pouch for use with body fluids from a patient is presented that involves introducing body fluids into a first chamber in the storage-and-liquid-processing pouch and flowing air through a second chamber. The chambers are separated by a high-moisture-vapor-transfer-rate member. The air flow in the second chamber enhances liquid removal from the first chamber across the high-moisture-vapor-transfer-rate member. Other systems, devices, and methods are disclosed herein. |
| US09314374B2 |
Stroboscopic ophthalmic illuminator
An ophthalmic illuminator is provided that includes a pulse generator to provide amplified pulses and an amplifier to amplify the current pulses to produce amplified pulses. A light source within the ophthalmic illuminator is driven by the amplified pulses so as to stroboscopically illuminate a vibrating ophthalmic surgical tool within the interior of an eye. |
| US09314372B2 |
Liquid dispensing device equipped with an air duct
A liquid dispenser device including an air flow channel for passing air from the outside towards the inside of a liquid reservoir; a closure member for closing the air flow channel, the closure member being referred to as an “air diffuser member” and being made out of a non-porous polymer material that is permeable to air; and an isolator casing for isolating the diffuser member, the isolator casing being configured in such a manner that the diffuser member is not in contact with the liquid from the reservoir, the casing including an air flow element for passing air towards the inside of the reservoir. |
| US09314370B2 |
Self-centering patient temperature control catheter
A patient temperature control catheter includes working fluid supply and return lumens through which working fluid circulates to exchange heat with a patient in whom the catheter is positioned. At least one lumen is defined by plural coils axially spaced from each other. At least a first coil is a large coil that inflates with working fluid to seat against a wall of a blood vessel in which the catheter is positioned, with blood flowing through the coil so as not to block blood flow in the vessel. |
| US09314367B2 |
System and method for determining and controlling core body temperature
Systems and methods for accurate temperature modification of a patient, or selected regions thereof, including inducing hypothermia. The temperature modification is accomplished using an in-dwelling heat exchange catheter within which a fluid heat exchange medium circulates. A heat exchange cassette attached to the circulatory flow lines of the catheter, the heat exchange cassette being sized to engage a cavity within a control unit. A temperature measurement scheme for obtaining body core temperature is provided, including methods of obtaining and analyzing temperature data to provide feedback to the control unit for use in controlling the heating and cooling of the heat exchange medium so as to heat or cool a patient to a desired target temperature. |
| US09314364B2 |
Self adjusting knee brace
A knee brace for use by athletes or others requiring protection and support of the knee. The knee brace protects against abnormal motions of the knee, and provides direct and indirect patella stabilization. A base comprised of elastic material is configured to closely fit around portions of the knee and adjacent leg portions. Direct patella support is provided by upper crossed straps that are permanently fastened to the base and cross the front of the leg above the knee, or by lower crossed straps that are permanently fastened to the base and cross the front of the leg below the knee, or by both upper and lower crossed straps. Additional direct patella support may be provided by a patella opening. One or more generally upright lateral pockets containing semi-rigid stays may also be provided on the sides of the base for lateral support. A popliteal opening may be provided to reduce the possibility of chafing at the rear of the knee. |
| US09314362B2 |
Methods, instruments and devices for extragastric reduction of stomach volume
Methods, instruments and systems are provided for separating opposite walls of the stomach by extragastric application of suction. Plication of the stomach can be performed between the separated walls after which the separate walls are brought back toward one another. In another aspect, methods, instruments, devices and systems are provided for reducing the effective volume of a stomach by performing one or more extragastric plications of the stomach. |
| US09314361B2 |
System and method for anchoring stomach implant
A gastric implant system includes a gastric implant such as a restrictive pouch or a gastric balloon, an anchor passable through the mouth and stomach and further through the stomach wall into engagement with abdominal wall tissue. When the anchor is engaged to abdominal wall tissue, the stomach wall and abdominal wall are brought into contact with one another such that a proximal portion of the anchor extends into the stomach interior while a distal portion of the anchor remains engaged to the abdominal wall. A locking element coupled to the proximal section of the anchor is sued to maintain contact between the stomach wall and abdominal wall. The gastric implant is advanced through the oral cavity into the stomach and is coupled to the anchor. |
| US09314360B2 |
Bi-directional stent delivery system
A bi-directional stent delivery system includes an inner elongate shaft, a radially expandable prosthesis disposed over the inner elongate shaft, an outer elongate shaft, and a shuttle sheath disposed over the radially expandable prosthesis. The distal portion of the inner shaft is releasably coupled to the distal portion of the shuttle sheath, and the distal portion of the outer shaft is releasably coupled the proximal portion of the shuttle sheath. Distal advancement of the inner shaft advances the shuttle sheath distally when the outer shaft is uncoupled from the shuttle sheath, thereby allowing the prosthesis to radially expand from a proximal end to a distal end. Proximal retraction of the outer shaft retracts the shuttle sheath proximally when the inner shaft is uncoupled from the shuttle sheath, thereby allowing the prosthesis to radially expand from a distal end to a proximal end thereof. |
| US09314358B2 |
Emergency vascular repair prosthesis deployment system
A deployment device for repair of a transected body vessel is described herein. Device can have a handle and one or more shafts coupled thereto. A prosthesis being retained by a sheath can be coupled to the delivery device. The sheath can have end portions coupled to one or more shafts. Rotation of a shaft can retract a sheath portion away from either end of the prosthesis for expansion thereof prior to the middle of the prosthesis. Continued rotation of a shaft can completely remove the sheath from the prosthesis, so that the prosthesis is fully expanded and couples the first and second vessel portions of the transected vessel together. Prosthesis may be retained by overlapping a tubular sheath and lacing a threading member therethrough. Prosthesis may be retained by a splittable sheath. |
| US09314356B2 |
Mechanically expandable delivery and dilation systems
A stent delivery system, a dilator system and a method for implanting a stent are provided. The stent delivery system includes an elongate shaft including a proximal portion, a distal portion, a lumen extending at least partially therethrough, and a stent receiving portion on the distal portion of the shaft. The stent delivery system also includes a stent positioned at the stent receiving portion of the elongate shaft, the stent having a constrained configuration and an expanded configuration. A proximal constraining member and a distal constraining member releasably connected to the stent and having a first position and a second position are also included. The proximal constraining member and the distal constraining member cooperatively apply longitudinal tensile force to at least a portion of the stent with the proximal and distal constraining members each in the first position. |
| US09314353B2 |
Stent suitable for deployment in a blood vessel
A stent suitable for deployment in a blood vessel to support at least part of an internal wall of the blood vessel includes a central section, a first intermediate section, a first end section, a second intermediate section and a section end section. The stent is movable between a delivery configuration and a deployment configuration. |
| US09314348B2 |
Bilaterally expanding intervertebral body fusion device
An embodiment includes an expandable intervertebral body fusion device with two expansion wedges within a generally hollow main body. After implantation into the intervertebral disc space, the expansion wedges are simultaneously moved from the center of the device toward the ends, which flexes the arms of the cage and increases the size of the implant. This expansion stabilizes the device in the disc space and increases the disc height, thereby reducing foraminal compression of spinal nerves and creating a stable motion segment for eventual fusion. Other embodiments are described herein. |
| US09314346B2 |
Spinal implant
A spinal implant includes a first rolling-contact core operably coupled to a first vertebra, said first rolling-contact core having a first convex surface having a first axis, said first convex surface configured to provide a first rolling motion in a first direction to said first vertebra relative to a second vertebra. At least one flexure is connected to said first rolling-contact core, said flexure configured to constrain said first rolling motion. |
| US09314345B2 |
Spinal implant system and method
A surgical instrument comprises a first wall defining a cavity disposed for communication with a suction source and extending between a first end and a second end. The first end includes at least a portion of a valve disposed for communication with the cavity. The second end includes at least a portion of an implant engaging surface. A second wall is connected to the first wall and extending between a first end and a second end. The first end includes an impact surface and the second end includes at least a portion of the implant engaging surface. Methods of use are disclosed. |
| US09314336B2 |
Adjustment assembly for an adjustable prosthetic valve device
An adjustment assembly for an adjustable prosthetic valve device includes a gearbox housing formed from two gearbox shells coupled to one another and held together by two gearbox sleeves each having an internal cavity adapted to accommodate respective lateral portions of the gearbox shells when the gearbox shells are coupled to one another. A gear assembly, including a center gear and two driven gears, is supported within the gearbox housing. Gear teeth of each of the driven gears engage gear teeth of the center gear such that rotation of the center gear causes rotation of the driven gears. At least one of the driven gears is adapted to engage a transmission mechanism that transmits the rotation thereof to another part of the adjustable prosthetic valve device to accomplish an adjustment to the size and/or shape of the adjustable prosthetic valve device. |
| US09314333B2 |
Heart valve sewing cuff
An embodiment of the invention includes a sewing cuff for aortic heart valves that better approximates native anatomy by better mating with the crown-like anatomical annulus. Limiting distortion of the crown-like annulus provides better blood flow and overall valve function and provides a physician greater ease of implantation since native anatomy is not flattened. Thus, the surgeon may attach sutures to the fibrous tissue of the crown-like anatomical annulus without distorting the shape of the native anatomy. An embodiment includes a scalloped sewing cuff assembly (with semilunar arches) that tracks the crown-like annulus. Another embodiment provides a sewing cuff positioned over the majority of the valve's length, thus allowing the surgeon greater flexibility as to where he or she can attach sutures to the surgical annulus. Conventional valves, which are primarily “low-profile” devices, do not offer such ability. Other embodiments are described herein. |
| US09314326B2 |
System and method for retaining vaso-occlusive devices within an aneurysm
The present invention is directed to systems for occluding an aneurysm having an aneurysmal neck and an aneurysmal inner wall. Generally, a device in accordance with the present invention includes a mesh-like structure that is integrally composed of a shape-memory alloy such as NiTi. The device is deployed within the aneurysm through the aneurysmal neck. The device is configured to be in a deployed state and an undeployed state, and is configured to transition from the undeployed state to the deployed state by exposure to a higher temperature and/or by being unconstrained. The device may function to retain finer vaso-occlusive devices such as vaso-occlusive coils and/or embolic liquids. Furthermore, the device itself may function as a vaso-occlusive device. |
| US09314325B2 |
Anti-aspiration prosthesis
A prosthesis and a method of manufacturing the prosthesis for controlling flow through a bodily lumen are provided. The prosthesis includes a body having a proximal portion, a distal portion and a lumen extending therethrough. The prosthesis also includes a valve operably connected to the body. The valve has a proximal portion, a distal portion and a lumen extending through the valve, where the valve lumen is connected to the body lumen. The valve is configured to be closed in the absence of an antegrade pressure and a retrograde pressure, the retrograde pressure being greater than the antegrade pressure. The valve includes a material portion operably connected to the valve, the material portion providing increased stiffness to the valve relative to the valve alone, wherein the material portion is configured to facilitate self-reversion of the valve to the closed configuration. |
| US09314322B2 |
Device and method for measuring pressure exerted on a surface
Provided are methods and devices for measuring pressure exerted against a surface. In an aspect, the surface corresponds to the urethra and the device measures the pressure exerted against the urethra. Methods include treatment of a patient suffering urinary stress incontinence. A pressure sensor system is used to determine, pre-surgically, the minimum pressure required to alleviate incontinence. During surgery, the pressure sensor system is employed to ensure the surgical intervention provides a corresponding minimum pressure that was clinically identified. In this manner, the surgical intervention is precisely monitored and measured to insure the appropriate pressure is exerted on the urethra to alleviate stress incontinence, thereby improving surgical outcome and decreasing post-operative complications. |
| US09314318B2 |
Dental anchor apparatus and method
A dental anchor apparatus having a one or two part endosseous implant securable in a patient's mouth and a retention member which is releasably engageable with the implant. The implant has an abutment head at one end and a threaded post projecting from the head and designed for threaded engagement in the jaw bone, the head having an outer locating surface portion. The retention member is generally cupshaped with a first end and a peripheral skirt extending from the first end to form a cavity, the skirt having an inner locating surface which is engaged over the outer locating surface portion of the head. The head may also have a socket in which a post extending from an inner end of the retention member engages as the parts are moved into releasable snap engagement. |
| US09314316B2 |
Dental and medical instruments comprising titanium
Endodontic instruments for use in performing root canal therapy on a tooth are disclosed. In one form, the instruments include an elongate shank having a cutting edge extending from a distal end of the shank along an axial length of the shank. The shank comprises a titanium alloy, and the shank is prepared by heat-treating the shank at a temperature above 25° C. in an atmosphere consisting essentially of a gas unreactive with the shank. In another form, the endodontic instruments have an elongate shank having a cutting edge extending from a distal end of the shank along an axial length of the shank. The shank consists essentially of a titanium alloy selected from alpha-titanium alloys, beta-titanium alloys, and alpha-beta-titanium alloys. The instruments solve the problems encountered when cleaning and enlarging a curved root canal. |
| US09314310B2 |
Robotic catheter system input device
An input device for a robotic medical system includes a handle configured to be rotatable about a center axis, and to be longitudinally displaceable along the center axis. The input device also includes a deflection control element disposed on the handle and configured to selectively control deflection of the distal end of a flexible medical instrument electrically coupled to the input device. Longitudinal displacement of the handle may cause or result in a corresponding longitudinal motion or deflection of the flexible medical instrument. Rotation of the handle may cause or result in a corresponding rotation of the deflection plane. Longitudinal displacement and rotation of the handle may be detected or sensed electronically. |
| US09314309B2 |
Surgical robot and method of controlling the same
A surgical robot including a slave device performing a surgical operation upon a patient and a master device controlling the surgical operation of the slave device. The slave device includes an image capture unit including a first lighting unit radiating visible light, a second lighting unit radiating UV light, and a camera capturing a visible-light image and a surgical tool coated with a UV reactive material emitting light in response to UV light radiated by the second lighting unit. |
| US09314304B2 |
Methods and system for image guided cell ablation with microscopic resolution
The invention provides systems and method for the removal of diseased cells during surgery. |
| US09314291B2 |
RF surgical generator and method for driving an RF surgical generator
Until now, ohmic consumers have been used to abruptly complete the output signal in RF surgical generators. Considering an RF surgical generator comprising a power supply with at least one storage capacitor and a controllable switching device with at least one energy storage device (e.g., a transformer) by which an RF output signal that can be delivered to an RF surgical instrument is generated, it is suggested herein that a regenerative device be provided between the energy storage device and the storage capacitor. Furthermore, a control mechanism is used for controlling the switching device and the regenerative device such that, if the RF output signal is to be completed, the regenerative device is energized for at least part of the time, and the energy storage is at least partially discharged in the storage capacitor. |
| US09314290B2 |
Cryogenic needle with freeze zone regulation
A cryogenic needle of a cryogenic system is coupled to a heater. While the needle is inserted into target tissue beneath skin, the heater provides heat to protect the skin. Power supplied to the heater is used to interpolate performance of the needle and/or operating parameters of the cryogenic system. |
| US09314289B2 |
Cleaning device and methods
An apparatus for treating tissue within a lumen may include a therapeutic or diagnostic instrument. A cleaning device may also be supported by the instrument. The cleaning device has a portion of a cleaning surface positioned proximal to the distal end of the cleaning device. |
| US09314285B2 |
Multi-directional thorax wall stabilisation
An implant (1) for attaching the first implant (1) to a tubular bone, in particular a rib bone, includes: a clamp (10) having a fillet (100) and prongs (101, 102, 103) extending from the fillet (100); and a first connecting element (11) for connecting the first implant (1) to a connector implant. The clamp (10) and the connecting element (11) are connected so as to be rotatable relative to each other about an axis. |
| US09314283B2 |
Femoral neck fracture implant
A device for implanting a bone fixation system comprises an insertion instrument extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the distal end having an engagement portion for removably engaging a proximal end of a bone plate, the insertion instrument having an elongated channel extending therethrough to permit insertion of a first protection sleeve therethrough, wherein a longitudinal axis of the elongated channel is coaxial with a longitudinal axis of a first opening extending through the bone plate and a first protection sleeve insertable into the elongated channel and guiding insertion of an anti-rotation screw therethrough and through the bone plate, a longitudinal axis of the first protection sleeve being angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the elongated channel. |
| US09314281B2 |
Orthopaedic fixation system, targeting device for such a fixation system and orthopaedic fixation method
An orthopaedic fixation system includes an anchoring element, which can be anchored to a bone and can be connected to a further anchoring element by means of a stabilization element. The anchoring element may include a stabilization element seating, into which the stabilization element can be guided. The orthopaedic fixation system may also include an extension device for the anchoring element having a longitudinal extent with a proximal section and a distal section. The distal section can be detachably fixed to the anchoring element. The fixation system may further include a holding device with a probe seating for an extracorporeal ultrasound probe and a coupling device for coupling the holding device to the proximal section of the extension device. A targeting device for a fixation system and an orthopaedic fixation method are also described. |
| US09314280B2 |
Minimally invasive tool to facilitate implanting a pedicle screw and housing
A minimally invasive tool to facilitate implanting a pedicle screw and housing is provided. The minimally invasive tool includes a first sleeve having flexible tabs that couple to a housing and a second sleeve slidably engaged in the first sleeve. The second sleeve provides reinforcing such that the first and second sleeve provide counter torque for driving the pedicle screw. |
| US09314279B2 |
Systems and methods for posterior dynamic stabilization of the spine
Devices, systems and methods for dynamically stabilizing the spine are provided. The devices include an expandable spacer or member having an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein the expandable member in an expanded configuration has a size, volume and/or shape configured for positioning between the spinous processes of adjacent vertebrae in order to distract the vertebrae relative to each other. The systems include one or more expandable members and a mechanical actuation means for expanding the expandable member. The methods involve the implantation of one or more devices or expandable spacers. |
| US09314278B2 |
Apparatus of fixing spinous processes
The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for curing spinal stenosis which is an abnormal narrowing of the spinal canal between spinous processes, more particularly, to an apparatus of fixing spinous processes which can prevent the narrowing or widening of the spinal canal between spinous processes along the motion of the spine so as to enhance spinal stabilization. The apparatus of fixing the spinous processes includes a spacer having at least predetermined portion inserted between spinous processes of two neighboring vertebrae to support the spinous processes so as to prevent narrowing of the spinous processes which is generated by spinal bending; and a clip provided to cover an outer surface of the spinous processes of the two neighboring vertebrae to prevent widening of a distance between the spinous processes generated by the spinal bending. |
| US09314272B1 |
Modular distractor for use in ankle surgery
A manual distractor unit is mounted upon a support frame attached to an operating table side rail. A patient's knee support pad, extending from the distractor unit, is positioned under the patient's knee to provide traction to the patient's ankle, which is secured to the support frame. |
| US09314270B2 |
Apparatus and method to access bone marrow
An apparatus and method for penetrating bone marrow is provided. The apparatus may include a housing such as a handheld body, a penetrator assembly, a connector that releasably attaches the penetrator assembly to a drill shaft, a gear mechanism, a motor and a power supply and associated circuitry operable to power the motor. The penetrator assembly may include a removable inner trocar and an outer penetrator or needle. It may also include a grooved trocar that allows bone chips to be expelled as the apparatus is inserted into bone marrow. Various connectors are provided to attach the penetrator assembly to the drill shaft. |
| US09314269B2 |
Hybrid cannula and methods for manufacturing the same
A new process of manufacturing a hybrid cannula may include creating a first part with at least two components, overmolding at least two components of a second part to a channel in each component of the first part, and fixing the components of the first part together. The second part may include various types of features such as thick/thin dams, squirt membranes, and/or duck bill dams inside the hybrid cannula. Each dam may have any number, shape, orientation, and length of slits/openings. The slits/openings may allow passage of an instrument while the dam(s) may prevent fluid from passing through the hybrid cannula. A third part may optionally be overmolded to at least a portion of the first part, at least a portion of the second part, or both. The third part may provide an extension, a flange, or a combination thereof at a distal end of the hybrid cannula. |
| US09314262B2 |
Follicular extraction method and device
A method and device for the extraction of follicular units from a donor area on a patient. The method includes scoring the outer skin layers with a sharp punch, and then inserting a blunt punch into the incision to separate the hair follicle from the surrounding tissue and fatty layer. The method and device will significantly decrease the amount of follicular transection and increase the rate at which follicular units can be extracted. |
| US09314255B2 |
Patello-femoral milling system
An orthopedic system prepares a surface of an anatomical structure to receive an orthopedic prosthesis. A method for using the same is also disclosed. The orthopedic system includes a surgical instrument and a guide. The guide includes an anterior portion and a distal portion that is at least partially elevated relative to the anterior portion. The distal portion includes at least one track that is sized to receive the surgical instrument while preparing the surface of the anatomical structure. |
| US09314252B2 |
Devices and methods for treating bone tissue
The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for creating channels within bone. One method for treating bone generally includes traversing an elongated member through cancellous bone of a vertebral body along a first generally non-linear path and then retracting the elongated member, thereby leaving a generally non-linear channel. The elongated member then is traversed through the cancellous bone along a second generally non-linear path, which second path does not completely coincide with the first path and then retracted along the second generally nonlinear path, thereby leaving a second generally non-linear channel. Optionally, bone filler material is deployed into the channels. |
| US09314249B2 |
System and method for delivering a left atrial appendage containment device
A device for containing emboli within a left atrial appendage of a patient includes a frame that is expandable from a reduced cross section to an enlarged cross section and a slider assembly. There is provided in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention methods of preventing retention anchors from projecting outside of the native diameter of the frame, thus facilitating recapture of the device. |
| US09314248B2 |
Multi-pivot thrombectomy device
A device may be used for capturing and retrieving vascular debris. The device may comprise: at least two segments radially expandable from a collapsed state to an expanded state, each of the at least two segments having (a) a waist comprising a radially largest region of the segment and (b) two longitudinal ends; at least one intermediate portion, each of the at least one intermediate portion comprising a pivot that connects adjacent segments, each pivot having a diameter less than a diameter of the waist; a tether attached to a proximalmost of the at least two segments and configured to position the at least two segments; wherein each of the at least two segments comprises at least two struts that extend longitudinally from a proximal end to a distal end of the segment, the at least two struts tapering from the waist radially inward toward a longitudinal axis of the device as the at least two struts approach an adjacent intermediate portion. |
| US09314247B2 |
Tissue stapler having a thickness compensator incorporating a hydrophilic agent
A staple cartridge assembly for use with a surgical stapler. The assembly has a cartridge body having a support portion with a plurality of staple cavities with openings. There is also a plurality of staples, wherein at least a portion of each the staple is removably stored within a the staple cavity. Each the staple is movable between an unfired position and a fired position, and is deformable between an unfired configuration and a fired configuration. The assembly also includes a compressible tissue thickness compensator configured to be captured within the staples. The compressible tissue thickness compensator at least partially covers the staple cavity openings. The compressed tissue thickness compensator is configured to assume different compressed heights within different the staples. The compressible tissue thickness compensator comprising a lyophilized foam having a hydrophillic agent embedded therein. |
| US09314245B2 |
Surgical fasteners and methods and devices for deploying a surgical fastener
Various exemplary surgical fasteners are provided, and methods and devices are provided for deploying a surgical fastener. In general, the methods and devices allow a surgical fastener to be deployed to secure tissue to bone. In one embodiment, a surgical fastener can be configured to move between a first linear or compressed configuration, in which the fastener can have a first maximum diameter, and a second bent or expanded configuration, in which the fastener can have a second maximum diameter greater than the first maximum diameter. A delivery device can be configured to advance the fastener through tissue and into bone to attach the tissue to the bone. The delivery device can be configured to maintain the fastener in the compressed configuration such that when the fastener is released from the delivery device, the fastener can be configured to self-expand from the compressed configuration to the expanded configuration. |
| US09314244B2 |
Directional surgical sutures
Surgical sutures are provided. In general, the surgical sutures can include a plurality of directional indicators that each visually indicate a same direction, e.g., a direction toward one free end of the suture. The directional indicators can be configured to indicate a position of the suture relative to a patient and/or other medical device(s). The directional indicators can be a function of the suture itself so as to be an integral part thereof. In other words, threads, also referred to as “strands,” that form the suture can define the directional indictors. The suture can be braided using threads of two different colors so as to form the directional arrows as an integral part of the suture when the suture is braided in manufacturing of the suture. |
| US09314237B2 |
Knotless suture anchor and receptacle combination
A threaded receptacle for receiving a commercially available knotless suture anchor is designed to secure sutures for tying soft tissue in patients that have bone characteristics where the typical anchor is avulsed because of the weakness of the bone structure, a cavity exists in the bone where an anchor has been removed. The threaded receptacle includes a helical thread that is maximized to provide sustaining surface and includes a central bore and an internal flange that is dimensioned to provide a central opening to allow the knotless suture anchor to pass into a cavity and prevent the knotless suture anchor from being expulsed when deployed. The internal dimension of the cavity is designed to cause the tips of the wings of the anchor to fold to assure sufficient holding structure. In a second embodiment the reduced diameter portion is at the end of the receptacle so that the anchor passes through the end of the receptacle and the locking portion remains within the receptacle having both the receptacle and anchor serving as a means for securing the mechanism to the bone. |
| US09314232B2 |
Tools for performing less invasive orthopedic joint procedures
A tool set for preparing a joint, inserting an implant or removing an implant from a joint in an open or less invasive procedure generally comprises a set of nested tools, pin guides, jigs, and/or immobilization elements. The nested tool set comprises at least one pin and at least one cannulated tool. The cannula can comprise tangs that project from the distal end of the cannula. The tangs can be offset such that drilling removes different amounts of bone relative to drilling through a centered drill guide. The cannulated tool kit can comprise at least one tool guide/cannula, drill bits/reamer, syringe, and/or inserter. At least one cannula is positioned over and around the pin position into the joint. The channel of the cannula guides the other tools into the joint. |
| US09314231B2 |
Use of an expandable stent as an implant conduit in the lateral approach to the spine
The use of a memory metal mesh stent as a retractor in a lateral approach to the spine. The expanded stent is used as a conduit through which an implant can pass. This advance is predicated upon the appreciation that modern stent implants have diameters that are large enough to accommodate passage of an intervertebral spinal implant therethrough. |
| US09314226B2 |
System and method for focusing ultrasound image data
Sold-state intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging devices, systems, and methods are provided. Some embodiments of the present disclosure are particularly directed to flexible and efficient systems for focusing IVUS echo data received from transducers including polymer piezoelectric micro-machined ultrasound transducers (PMUTs). In one embodiment, an ultrasound processing system includes first and second aperture engines coupled to an engine controller, which provides aperture assignments to the first and second aperture engines. The aperture engines receive the assignment and a portion of A-line data, perform one or more focusing process on the received A-line data, and produce focused data in accordance with the aperture assignment. In some embodiments, once an aperture engine has produced focused data, the engine controller clears the aperture engine and assigns another aperture. |
| US09314222B2 |
Operation of a remote medical navigation system using ultrasound image
A method of operating a remote medical navigation system using ultrasound, employs ultrasound imaging from a medical device to supplement or to replace conventional x-ray imaging of the operating region during navigation. |
| US09314220B2 |
Rotor and X-ray CT scanners
The invention relates to a rotor comprising a radiation source having a focal spot for radiating beam towards a subject, detection means for generating signals responsive to energy attenuation of said beam and a circular body having a cavity for housing the radiation source, and a circle arc-shaped surface on which the detection means are mounted. The circle arc-shaped surface is placed opposite to the cavity with respect to the subject, said cavity comprising an inside surface mounted with a shield for shielding the radiation not towards the subject. In this way, the conventional housing for radiation source and shielding are removed, resulting in reduction of focal spot motion caused by motion of the conventional housing. Furthermore, this invention proposes to mount the detection means directly on the circular body without an intermediate structural housing that reduces the detector modules motion relative to the focal spot. |
| US09314210B2 |
Method and apparatus for rate-dependent morphology-based cardiac arrhythmia classification
An implantable medical device includes a tachyarrhythmia detection and classification system that classifies tachyarrhythmias based on a morphological analysis of template and arrhythmic waveforms. The morphological analysis takes effect of heart rate on the morphological characteristics of the template and arrhythmic waveforms into consideration. Correlation between morphological features of the template waveform and corresponding morphological features of an arrhythmic waveform provides for the basis for classifying the tachyarrhythmia. In one embodiment, corresponding morphological features are extracted from the template and arrhythmic waveforms at locations determined by the heart rate associated with a detected arrhythmia episode. In another embodiment, weighting factors each being a function of the heart rate are applied to the template and arrhythmic morphological features before a correlation coefficient is calculated. |
| US09314205B2 |
Measurement of cardiac cycle length and pressure metrics from pulmonary arterial pressure
A method and apparatus for monitoring a cardiovascular pressure signal in a medical device that includes determining whether the sensed pressure signal is greater than a first pressure threshold, determining a first metric of the pressure signal in response to the sensed pressure signal being greater than the first pressure threshold, determining whether the sensed pressure signal is greater than a second pressure threshold not equal to the first pressure threshold, determining a second metric of the pressure signal in response to the sensed pressure signal being greater than the first pressure threshold, and determining at least one of a systolic pressure or a diastolic pressure, wherein the at least one of a systolic pressure or a diastolic pressure is determined based on the first metric in response to the pressure signal not being greater than the second threshold, and based on the second metric in response to the pressure signal being greater than the second threshold. |
| US09314204B1 |
Ketone measurement system capable of validating measurements against behavioral rules
Systems and related methods are provided for measuring a ketone in the fluid of a patient or other user. The systems include a portable measurement device for analyzing a plurality of fluid samples and for generating a corresponding plurality of ketone measurement results. The systems also include an electronic or communications device, for example, such as a cell phone or smartphone, configured to communicate with the measurement device. The system further includes a software application. The systems and related methods according to one aspect provide reminders, preferably interactive reminders that facilitate user compliance with a weight management or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) monitoring or prevention program. The systems and related methods according to another aspect incorporate ketone tags and/or trigger points to improve accuracy of results and to advance user compliance. |
| US09314203B2 |
Sensor for foetal monitoring
A sensor for foetal monitoring, in particular for measuring electrophysiological signals, e.g. electrical activity of the uterus of a pregnant woman and/or of the heart of a foetus. The sensor includes a plurality of signal electrodes and a ground electrode mounted in or on a substrate, and a connector for connecting the sensor to a monitoring system. The ground electrode is positioned about or between a pair of signal electrodes. |
| US09314195B2 |
Analyte signal processing device and methods
Methods, devices, and systems are provided that include an analyte sensor interface electronics for receiving a plurality of analyte related signals from an analyte sensor over a measurement time period, and a data processing component operatively coupled to the analyte sensor interface electronics for processing the received plurality of analyte related signals, the data processing component including a signal filtering component to filter the received plurality of analyte related signals, and a signal conversion component operatively coupled to the signal filtering component to convert the received filtered plurality of analyte related signals to determine an analyte level associated with a monitored analyte level during the measurement time period. |
| US09314190B1 |
Movement disorder recovery system and method
Most particularly, the present invention relates to a customized and adaptive movement recovery system and a method of improving the functional motor recovery of a subject with a movement disorder. The present invention provides for a system and method, which in some embodiments can accurately quantify treatment device parameters and protocols including electrical stimulation amplitude (volts/amps), frequency (Hz), and pulse width (microseconds), and medication titrations, doses, and times by utilizing accelerometric, gyroscopic or other movement related information, such as electromyography (EMG) data, or the like, and a central database, or system of databases, of patient and treatment histories. In other embodiments, the system and method provide for an adaptive central database system and automated control of movement disorder treatment devices. |
| US09314189B2 |
Extracorporeal physiological measurement device
An extracorporeal physiological measurement device is disclosed, having fastening means for attaching to the body of a person or animal, measurement means for detection of values of a physiological measured variable on the body, and movement-detecting means and measured-value-influencing means connected thereto at the input for influencing the detected measured values before processing or storage as a function of a position or movement status of the body or the measurement device detected by the detection means such that the measured-value-influencing means have a unit for detection of a shift in position between the measurement device and the body. |
| US09314185B2 |
Line-contact dry electrode
A line-contact dry electrode comprises a conductive electrode base and at least one conductive contact member extending from the conductive electrode base. The conductive contact member includes a plurality of elastic conductive branches arranged intermittently to form a comb-like electrode able to comb and push away the testee's hair and contact the testee's skin. |
| US09314182B2 |
Spatiotemporal pattern recognition for neurological event detection and prediction in an implantable device
A system and method for detecting and predicting neurological events with an implantable device uses a relatively low-power central processing unit in connection with signal processing circuitry to identify features (including half waves) and calculate window-based characteristics (including line lengths and areas under the curve of the waveform) in one or more electrographic signals received from a patient's brain. The features and window-based characteristics are employed within the framework of a programmable finite state machine to identify patterns and sequences in and across the electrographic signals, facilitating early and reliable detection and prediction of complex spatiotemporal neurological events in real time, and enabling responsive action by the implantable device. |
| US09314174B1 |
Mobile plethysmographic device
A mobile plethysmographic device for detecting a premature ventricular contraction event is disclosed herein. The mobile plethysmographic device generates a pleth waveform, which is automatically screened by algorithms that measure the waveform to correlate, detect and store aberrations related to heart anomalies. A premature ventricular contraction event for a patient is determined based on an identification of a time interval of the pleth waveform that is below the threshold minimum time interval followed immediately by a time interval that is above the threshold maximum time interval. |
| US09314171B2 |
Blood pressure measurement device having function of determining rest condition of patient
A blood pressure measurement device measures a pulse period of a patient and includes a memory, a threshold calculation section, a rest/unrest condition determination section, and a display unit. The memory stores data of the measured pulse period and data of a pulse period of past measurement of the patient. The threshold calculation section calculates a threshold value range based on the data of the pulse period of the past measurement of the patient. The rest/unrest condition determination section determines whether the patient was under the rest condition or the unrest condition during blood pressure measurement by comparing the measured pulse period with the threshold value range. The display unit displays the blood pressure measured and whether the blood pressure was measured when the patient was in the rest condition or the unrest condition. |
| US09314169B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods to determine fractional flow reserve
Devices, systems, and methods to determine fractional flow reserve. At least one method for determining fractional flow reserve of the present disclosure comprises the steps positioning a device comprising at least two sensors within a luminal organ at or near a stenosis, wherein the at least two sensors are separated a predetermined distance from one another, operating the device to determine flow velocity of a second fluid introduced into me luminal organ to temporarily displace a first fluid present within the luminal organ, and determining fractional flow reserve at or near the stenosis based upon the flow velocity, a mean aortic pressure within the luminal organ, and at least one cross-sectional area at or near the stenosis. Devices and systems useful for performing such exemplary methods are also disclosed herein. |
| US09314164B2 |
Method of using the detection of early increase in microvascular blood content to distinguish between adenomatous and hyperplastic polyps
The present invention, in one aspect, relates to a method for distinguishing between possible adenomatous and hyperplastic polyps using what is referred to as “Early Increase in microvascular Blood Supply” (EIBS) that exists in tissues that are close to, but are not themselves, the abnormal tissue. |
| US09314162B2 |
Optical speculum
A system for direct imaging and diagnosing of abnormal cells in a target tissue includes a disposable optical speculum and an image acquisition system having the speculum assembled on and mechanically secured thereto. The image acquisition system is arranged to capture at least one of a single image or multiple images or video of cells within the target tissue using at least one of bright field or dark field ring illumination divided into independently operated segments to obtain a plurality of data sets. An image analysis and control unit in communication with the image acquisition system analyzes the data sets and applies algorithms to the data sets for diagnosing abnormal cells. |
| US09314161B2 |
Moving object contour extraction apparatus, left ventricle image segmentation apparatus, moving object contour extraction method and left ventricle image segmentation method
According to one embodiment, a moving object contour extraction apparatus includes a contour acquisition unit and a contour correction unit. The contour acquisition unit is configured to acquire a contour of a moving object in each image slice. The contour correction unit is configured to correct the contours of the moving object in image slices of at least one image slice time series based on motion trend information of the moving object in each of a plurality of image slice time series. |
| US09314159B2 |
Patient monitoring device with remote alert
A remote patient monitoring system provides patient physiological data and alerts/alarms from a main patient monitor to a remote patient monitor worn by a medical professional. The medical professional is alerted as to physiological data of the monitored patient, and provided alerts or alarms when predetermined levels are reached. The medical professional is able to reset the alert or alarms at the remote patient monitor. |
| US09314152B2 |
Surgical access system and related methods
A surgical access system including a tissue distraction assembly and a tissue retraction assembly, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. Some embodiments of the surgical access system may be particularly suited for establishing an operative corridor to a surgical target site in the spine. Such an operative corridor may be established through the retroperitoneal space and the psoas muscle during a direct lateral, retroperitoneal approach to the spine. |
| US09314150B2 |
System and method for detecting tooth cracks via surface contour imaging
A method for imaging the surface of a tooth, the method executed at least in part on a computer records a first set of images of the tooth, wherein each image in the first set of images is illuminated according to a pattern oriented in a first direction. A second set of images of the tooth are recorded, wherein each image in the second set of images is illuminated according to a pattern oriented in a second direction that is shifted more than 10 degrees with respect to the first direction. A first contour image is reconstructed according to the recorded first set of images and a second contour image according to the recorded second set of images. A residual image is formed as a combination of the first and second contour images. The residual image is analyzed and surface conditions of the tooth reported. |
| US09314148B2 |
Motionless adaptive stereoscopic scene capture with tuneable liquid crystal lenses and stereoscopic auto-focusing methods
A motionless adaptive focus stereoscopic scene capture apparatus employing tuneable liquid crystal lenses is provided. The apparatus includes at least two image sensors preferably fabricated as a monolithic stereo image capture component and at least two corresponding tuneable liquid crystal lenses preferably fabricated as a monolithic focus adjustment component. Using a variable focus tuneable liquid crystal lens at each aperture stop provides constant magnification focus control. Controlled spatial variance of a spatially variant electric field applied to the liquid crystal of each tuneable liquid crystal lens provides optical axis shift enabling registration between stereo images. A controller implements coupled auto-focusing methods employing multiple focus scores derived from at least two camera image sensors and providing multiple tuneable liquid crystal lens drive signals for synchronous focus acquisition of a three dimensional scene. Wafer manufacture provides a compact stereoscopic image capture apparatus for endoscopic surgery, optical inspection and entertainment applications. |
| US09314143B2 |
Cleaning systems with buckets and removable dividers
A cleaning system is provided that includes a bucket having a channel defined therein and a divider. The divider has a main body and a pair of sealing walls that extend from a periphery of the main body in such a manner that the sealing walls are separated from one another. Each of the sealing walls is configured to resiliently flex inwardly toward one another when the divider is in the channel to form a seal against the channel and divide the bucket into first and second reservoirs. |
| US09314141B2 |
Robot cleaner
A robot cleaner capable of improving the external esthetic quality thereof while enhancing the cleaning performance, the robot cleaner including a body configured to remove dust while navigating on a floor and to form an external appearance of the robot cleaner, and a side brush assembly installed at the body to clean corners of the floor, wherein the side brush assembly includes a motor configured to supply a power while being installed at the body, a rotation shaft coupled to the motor, and a plurality of side brushes rotatably coupled to the rotation shaft, and wherein the plurality of side brushes have respective intervals changed with respect to one another such that the plurality of side brushes are prevented from being exposed to outside the body. |
| US09314138B2 |
Surface cleaning apparatus
An surface cleaning apparatus comprises at least one of a surface cleaning unit lock and a cyclone bin assembly lock. A lockout member disables the at least one of the surface cleaning unit lock and the cyclone bin assembly lock when a handle is used to carry the surface cleaning apparatus. |
| US09314137B2 |
Smart multi-soap dispenser
A water amount controlling device includes a control unit for controlling an amount of water to be supplied, and a washing agent receptacle including a detection unit , wherein the detecting unit is adapted for detecting and identifying e.g. a type, a consistency or an amount of washing agent dispensed from a washing agent reservoir to be received in the washing agent receptacle, and wherein the control unit is adapted for controlling an amount of water based on the detected and identified property of the quantity of washing agent. |
| US09314136B2 |
Tiered stacking system for pans and trays
A set of plastic lifts are placed between sheet pans or trays in order to stack them within an oven and during cooling and transport. The dimensions of the plastic lifts are selected to provide adequate tray spacing for circulation of air between the trays for cooking and cooling purposes. Preferably, the plastic lifts comprise a set of four cylindrical lifts of 2½″ height and eight cylindrical lifts of 1¼″ height, with two of the smaller lifts nested within an axial bore of each of the larger lifts. The lifts are fabricated of a non-slide plastic material able to withstand temperatures up to 400° F. and capable of rapid cooling. The primary object is to achieve greater efficiency in domestic and commercial food preparation by heating and transporting multiple trays at the same time and enabling a more compact footprint for the trays. |
| US09314132B2 |
Cooking release sheet materials and release surfaces
A cooking release material includes a layer comprising fluoropolymer. The cooking release material has a major surface having nucleation structures in a density of at least 10 per square inch. The cooking release material can include a reinforcement material, the layer coated over the reinforcement material. The cooking release material can include a second layer forming the major surface. |
| US09314128B2 |
Extraction system for the production of a drink using a capsule
System for preparing drinks from a capsule comprising: a capsule (1) including a body comprising an injection face and an extraction face with an opening and terminating in a collar (5) and a portion for delivery of the drink; the collar terminating in a free edge (8); a device for preparing drinks comprising: a first chamber portion (14) comprising a cavity of a shape suitable for substantially covering the body of the capsule and a clamping surface (23) which is engaged in compression against the collar, and a second chamber portion comprising an extraction plate, at least one of the two chamber portions being able to move relative to the other chamber portion from an open position in which the capsule is inserted to a closed position in which the capsule is enclosed between the two chamber portions, the first chamber portion (14) comprising means (32, 38) for hooking the capsule making it possible to keep the capsule in the said cavity of the said first portion during the transition from the closed position to the open position; the capsule comprising complementary means (8, 39) suitable for the takeover by these hooking means. |
| US09314123B1 |
Hanger adapter
Anti-theft hanger adapters are disclosed. An anti-theft hanger adapter can include a main body coupled with a hook member for hanging the adapter. The main body can include at least one support, recess, member, or other structure configured to reversibly couple an anti-theft hanger to the adapter, thereby allowing the adapter and the anti-theft hanger to be hung from a select location. |
| US09314122B2 |
Bowl
The invention relates to a bowl for mixing food. At least one group of at least three knobs (12; 12′; 12″) is attached to the outside of the base (10) of said bowl. All the knobs of a group protrude outwards to a common plane so that the bowl can be placed onto an even surface (70) in an orientation that is inclined with respect to the direction of gravity in such a manner that said bowl lies on the even surface (70) with all the knobs (12; 12′; 12″) of said group. |
| US09314121B2 |
Drinking cup lid
A drinking cup lid is disclosed. The drinking cup lid includes a body with a deck and an annular wall that depends downwards. The annular wall is adapted to insert into a drinking cup. A first gasket and a second gasket extend outward from the annular wall and are configured for sealing engagement with the drinking cup. A closure is pivotally attached to the annular wall and configured and arranged to pivot between a closed position, sealing the drinking cup closed, and an open position, opening the drinking cup. |
| US09314117B2 |
Hanging basket cover
A hanging basket cover including a body having a first, open end and an opposing second end, and at least two flexible arms transversely extending from the first end of the body. The arms are movable between a rest position and a flexed position, where a hanging basket is inserted in the first end of the body and against the flexible arms causing the flexible arms to move to the flexed position for allowing the hanging basket to move into the body until the flexible arms extend over a top edge of the hanging basket to secure the body to the hanging basket. |
| US09314115B2 |
Play yards and methods of operating the same
Play yards and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An example play yard includes a plurality of posts, a lower frame supported by the plurality of posts, and a top frame supported by the plurality of posts when the play yard is in an erected position. The top frame includes a first rounded rail; a second rounded rail opposite the first rounded rail; a third rounded rounded rail between the first rounded rail and the second rounded rail; and a fourth rounded rail opposite the third rounded rail. In the erected position, the third rail curves upward and a center of the third rail is at a first height and a center of the first rail is a second height. The second height is closer to the lower frame than the first height. |
| US09314113B1 |
Child carrier having adjustable seat coupling
A carrier for transporting a child by a transporting individual. The carrier includes a belt, a seat, a torso support, and one or more couplers. The belt is configured for securing about the waste and/or hips of the transporting individual; the seat is coupled to the belt, is configured for at least partially supporting the child if the child is seated in the carrier, and has a surface configured for at least partially supporting at least part of the posterior of the child; the torso support is coupled to the seat by one or more couplers and is configured for supporting at least part of the torso of the child; and the one or more couplers are configured to enable adjustment of a distance between one or more coupling locations for each of the one or more couplers and a selected reference point. |
| US09314110B2 |
Backfolded pocket mattress
A pocket mattress includes coil springs arranged as spring units, arranged successively in elongate strings, enclosed in a covering material forming pockets. A plurality of the strings are arranged side by side, the strings including a plurality of transverse seams arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the coil springs to separate the pockets. A middle portion of the transverse seams attaches at least a layer of covering material from either side of the spring unit to each other. At least some of the seams are back folded seams, in which the covering material proximate to an end portion of the back folded seams is back folded towards the middle portion of the transverse seams. As such, the back folded transverse seams each have at least one end portion attaching at least twice as many layers of covering material as in a corresponding transverse seam which is not back folded. |
| US09314108B2 |
Plunger matrix mattress assemblies
A plunger matrix mattress includes a number of independently movable foam padded plungers that form an array of independently movable points of support. This type of mattress significantly improves body contouring over conventional coil spring mattress designs. The plunger matrix mattress also allows substantial airflow through the mattress improving over conventional foam mattress designs. Different plungers may have different spring and dampening characteristics to allow different plungers and plunger zones of the mattress to exhibit different firmness levels. Individual plungers may be removed and replaced independently, for example to replace the plunger with another plunger with a different spring characteristic, and make other types of adjustments and repairs. A variety of optional design features and configurations provide for a wide range of alternative configurations with differing levels of sophistication and functionality to produce a range of models designed to meet differing customer preferences and price points. |
| US09314107B2 |
Supporting spring system for a mattress in particular
Supporting spring systems for sleeping, reclining or sitting furniture must have spring characteristics that provide good sleeping, reclining and/or sitting comfort. In known supporting spring systems, this is achieved only by relatively high design expenditure. The invention aims to create a simple and flexible supporting spring system which nevertheless ensures high sleeping, reclining or sitting comfort. Support elements (13, 50, 60, 70, 80) for connecting two female connectors (10) of a pair of female connectors (11) are provided for this purpose. The support elements (13, 50, 60, 70, 80) exhibit spring arms (15, 72) that are guided from beneath the female connectors (10) of the pairs of female connectors (11) up around the outside of the pair of female connectors (11). |
| US09314104B2 |
Sleep system mechanism
A furniture system (100) is disclosed which is movable between a sofa configuration and a sleep configuration. The system (100) includes a movable high back cushion (124) with a handle (122). Below the high back cushion (120) is an intermediate back cushion (124). A seat cushion (128) is also provided. Linkage mechanisms (134) are coupled to various components of the system (100). The linkage mechanisms (134) facilitate and guide movement of the back cushion assembly (120, 124) between the sofa and sleep configurations. |
| US09314102B2 |
Vertical seat motion lock
A vertical seat motion lock apparatus is provided and includes a seat base, a locking system coupled to the seat base and disposable in a locking position, at which the locking system is configured to permit upward seat base movement and to prevent uncommanded downward seat base movement, and an unlocked position and a control system coupled to the locking system, the control system being biased to cause the locking system to assume the locking position and configured to be selectively actuated to cause the locking system to assume the unlocked position. |
| US09314100B1 |
System and method for enhanced viewing of an event
A system and method for enhanced viewing of an event that provides a level, stable resting surface for viewing an event by adjusting at least one support member until a desired level surface is achieved, securely engaging a weighted member to the ground surface, elevating the seat above an obstructive object, and providing facilitated portability. The system includes a portable seat with a strap for carrying the seat on the back. The system also provides adjustable telescoping support assemblies that individually extend and retract to create a level surface for viewing the event. A release assembly biases the support assemblies towards extension, and locks them into a desired height with a spring-biased lock pin. A weighted member attaches to a mounting end of the telescoping support assembly for helping extend the support assembly. The weighted member pivots and includes a sharp end for digging into the ground. |
| US09314097B2 |
Portable folding table
An improved portable folding table includes a folding frame and a table top supported by the folding frame. The folding frame includes a connecting sleeve, supporting blocks, supporting rods coupled to the connecting sleeve and the supporting blocks and first/second cross-bars coupled to the supporting blocks. The table top includes a tablecloth, third/fourth cross-bars at the bottom of the tablecloth and coupled to the supporting blocks, auxiliary cross-bars positioned between the third and fourth cross-bars and holders fixedly attached to the bottom of the tablecloth to receive ends of the auxiliary cross-bars. The holders prevent the auxiliary cross-bars from sliding out during normal operation. |
| US09314094B2 |
Fluid applicator
Systems and methods directed to the art of transferring a fluid, such as to a work surface, are provided. A fluid applicator capable of being received within a standard hobby knife handle and used to apply a desired amount of fluid to a work surface. The fluid applicator has a loop end for collecting, supporting, and depositing a fluid. |
| US09314088B2 |
Cinch sack
Described are improvements related to a pack, backpack or sports sack for carrying items. In one implementation, a pack assembly includes a cinch sack, draw cords and a sternum or breast buckle for encouraging the pack assembly to remain in place on one's torso when in use. Improved shape, pockets and configuration of elements facilitate improved user experience and utility of the pack assembly. |
| US09314086B2 |
Cosmetic container
A container for packaging and dispensing of a solid cosmetic or care product. The container comprises a hollow base and a cap for holding the solid product. The cap is rotatably mounted on the hollow base of the container to present the solid product to a surface of application including skin, face, lip, eyelashes, hair, nail etc. |
| US09314084B2 |
Clandestine lotion dispensing apparatus
A dispensing apparatus includes a display panel having a back surface and a dispensing device coupled to the back surface of the display panel. The dispensing display device may include a medicament pad configured to dispense medicine, lotion, or the like. The dispensing apparatus includes a display housing. The display panel is selectively coupled to the display housing so as to define a void between the display panel and the display housing when coupled thereto. The dispensing device is selectively positioned at a first configuration in which the dispensing device is situated within the void and a second configuration in which the dispensing device is situated outside the void. The display housing may include one or more channels and the display panel may include one or more bosses such that display panel may be reversed in orientation by slidable operation of respective bosses in respective channels. |
| US09314079B2 |
Device, systems, and methods for holding objects
Provided is a system for storing items, having a storage device with a base portion and a lid portion. The system also may include one or more movable inserts configured for disposal in the storage device. The one or more movable inserts may be configured for disposal in the storage device and may have a surface having one or more first fastening elements. The system also may include a holder configured to be removably attached to an insert. The holder may have a surface having one or more second fastening elements configured to engage the one or more first fastening elements, and configured to hold the items on the surface of the insert. |
| US09314076B2 |
Travel suitcase system
An improved travel suitcase system having at least two travel suitcases, in which each of the travel suitcases has installation parts thereon that allow the suitcases to be coupled together so that the suitcases, when coupled together, can be easily moved at the same time. |
| US09314075B2 |
Baby changing station and storage bag
A baby changing station for storing and organizing baby supplies has been developed. The station includes a quilted storage bag with a central storage compartment, multiple storage pockets attached to the front and two insulated bottle holders attached on the sides. Additionally, two loops attached to each end of the storage bag so that a carrying strap may be used. The station also includes a flap for closing the storage bag. The flap is elongated and suitable for holding the storage bag in position when it is inserted in between a bed mattress and bed box spring. |
| US09314074B2 |
Wallet with rolling O-ring hinge
A wallet for securely holding one or more documents having a first band plate and a second band plate connected together using a stationary O-ring and a rolling O-ring . Each plate includes a top edge, side edges, and a pivot edge. A notch is located in each of the side edges adjacent the pivot edge that receives and holds the stationary O-ring . At least one of the plates includes a channel located in each of the side edges between the notch and the top edge that receives and holds the rolling O-ring . The rolling O-ring is typically located at the top of the channel near the top edge. The O-ring s bias the plates to a closed. The stationary O-ring allows the plates to be stretched apart while keeping the pivot edge together. The rolling O-ring rolls down the channel to release tension holding the plates together. |
| US09314073B2 |
Adjustable bracelet clasp
A bracelet clasp having an unfolding buckle, including first and second strips hinged to each other via a first of the respective ends thereof, between a closed position for wear, and at least one open position, the first strip carrying a fastening for a first bracelet strand, the second, bottom strip carrying a loop at the second end thereof defining a recess for a second bracelet strand and carrying a lug to be inserted in a suitable hole in the bracelet strand to define a point of anchorage of the bracelet to the clasp. The loop has a plurality of sites, substantially aligned along the longitudinal direction of the bracelet, each of which is configured to cooperate with the lug to ensure the assembly thereof to the loop and to define a predefined position of the point of anchorage associated with a predefined usable length of the bracelet. |
| US09314072B2 |
Reversible pin plate for fine wrist strap adjustment
A device is disclosed for wearing on a wrist or other body part including a central piece held on the body part by a pair of straps. A first strap includes fastening holes and the second strap includes a pin plate having pins for mating within the fastening holes in the first strap to affix the device to the body part. The pins are off-center with respect to a lengthwise centerline dividing a width of the pin plate in half. The pin plate may be affixed to the second strap into different orientations, to thereby allow adjustment of a fit of the device to the body part with finer granularity than provided by the pitch of the fastening holes in the first strap. |
| US09314066B1 |
Wearable waterproof shoe cover
A wearable waterproof shoe cover that includes an impermeable elastomeric sheath adapted to fit over and envelope footwear to protect said footwear from fluids when walking through wet or muddy terrain, said sheath including a zippered pocket disposed thereon into which pocket the sheath involutes in a compact and folded situation for storage and portability. |
| US09314059B2 |
Laminate of cloths, clothing, and bedding
The laminate of cloths includes a first outer layer, a second layer, and an inner layer disposed between the first outer layer and the second outer layer. A layer thickness of the inner layer disposed between the first outer layer and the second outer layer is formed to be larger than a cloth thickness of the inner layer, and a space part is formed between the first outer layer and the second outer layer. |
| US09314058B2 |
Sleeved partial undergarment and methods of use
Garments, garment systems, and methods of using garments and garments systems useful for warming and protecting the body, especially the upper body. A garment may be a sleeved partial undergarment accessory that may be worn under an outer garment and may be removed without requiring removal of the outer garment. A garment may include first and second tubular sleeves with a continuous front region extending between the sleeves and from a neck opening down to a torso opening, a continuous back region extending between the sleeves and from the neck opening down to the torso opening. The opening extends from and is continuous with a distal-most region of the proximal sleeve openings so that the front region and the back region do not connect to each other around the first and second sleeve openings. |
| US09314054B2 |
Garment having cup part
A garment 1 having a cup part in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is a garment having a cup part for covering a bust. The cup part 10 has upper and lower cup portions 12, 16, with a middle cup portion 14 sewed therebetween. The middle cup portion 14 is arranged such that a bust top T is located at a boundary between the upper and middle cup portions 12, 14 or in the middle cup portion 14 and extends from a front center side edge 10lf of a lower portion or a front center side edge of an upper portion of the cup part 10 to an outer side edge of the lower portion, an edge 10s of a side portion, or an outer side edge of the upper portion thereof. |
| US09314052B2 |
Apparel pouch assembly
A flexible pouch for an apparel item to support a portion of a wearer's body, particularly a pouch for use in male apparel such as undergarments and swimwear. |
| US09314041B2 |
Immune function modulating agents
A probiotic lactobacillus was discovered from lactobacilli of the Lactobacillus genus independently isolated from human adult feces. The probiotic lactobacillus was selected from other bacterial strains for: (1) being highly resistant to gastric acid/bile acid; (2) having a high promoting activity on IL-12 production from mouse derived spleen cells and a high Th1/Th2 balance-improving effect; (3) having a high ability to inhibit the production of antigen-specific IgE induced by intraperitoneally administering ovalbumin to BALB/c mice; (4) having a high ability to inhibit the production of antigen-specific IgE induced by orally administering a food antigen to C57BL/6N mice; (5) having a high Natural Killer cell-activating ability; (6) having a high IL-12 production-promoting activity on spleen cells and mesenteric lymph node cells derived from mice immunized with ovalbumin and a high Th1/Th2 balance-improving effect; and (7) having a high ability to suppress eosinophilia induced by a cedar pollen-extracted antigen. This discovery led to the completion of the present invention. |
| US09314034B2 |
Apparatus for producing a sausage string
Apparatus and methods for producing a string from a pasty material comprising at least an extrusion head which has at least one conveyor conduit for the pasty material to be shaped into a string, wherein the conveyor conduit has an inlet and an outlet, and which has a receiving chamber for a casing material to be applied to the string, wherein the receiving chamber has an entry for the casing material and an exit for applying the casing material to the string surface. Arranged downstream of the extrusion head in the conveyor direction is a deflection device adapted to put the string covered with casing material into a predetermined curvature. The pasty material is pressed to form a string of predetermined length and then the string is covered at least with a pasty material, wherein the string covered with the casing material is deflected through a predetermined angle. |
| US09314032B2 |
0-net carbohydrate all purpose flour
A 0-net carbohydrate all-purpose baking flour high in protein and fiber content and low in fat and calorie content. In a preferred embodiment the proteins and fibers are blended together in the presence of a bonding agent. The resulting 0-net carbohydrate baking flour preferably further includes a natural sweetener. The 0-net carbohydrate flour can be prepared so as to be gluten free. |
| US09314031B2 |
Plant growth regulation
The present invention relates to a method for improving the plant growth regulation of and/or enhancing crop plants, by applying to the plants a mixture of a plant growth regulator, and seaweed extract, and to a composition comprising the same. |
| US09314030B2 |
Particulate wood preservative and method for producing same
A wood preservative includes injectable particles comprising one or more sparingly soluble copper salts. The copper-based particles are sufficiently insoluble so as to not be easily removed by leaching but are sufficiently soluble to exhibit toxicity to primary organisms primarily responsible for the decay of the wood. Exemplary particles contain for example copper hydroxide, basic copper carbonate, copper carbonate, basic copper sulfates including particularly tribasic copper sulfate, basic copper nitrates, copper oxychlorides, copper borates, basic copper borates, and mixtures thereof. The particles typically have a size distribution in which at least 50% of particles have a diameter smaller than 0.25 μm, 0.2 μm, or 0.15 μm. At least about 20% and even more than 75% of the weight of the particles may be composed of the substantially crystalline copper salt. Wood or a wood product may be impregnated with copper-based particles of the invention. |
| US09314014B2 |
Compositions and methods for the storage of red blood cells
The present invention provides an aqueous composition for storage of red blood cells consisting essentially of: adenine; dextrose; at least one non-metabolizable membrane-protectant sugar; and a specifically defined pH buffering system. Also provided are improved methods for preserving red blood cells and methods for increasing the viability, membrane retention, and recoverability while suppressing apoptosis, hemolysis, and post-reinfusion clearance of stored red blood cells which utilize the novel compositions. |
| US09314011B2 |
Pyrotechnic device with protective cover
The pyrotechnic device (1) is intended for the destruction of animals that dig tunnels, such as moles, by firing a pyrotechnic charge (2), comprising means (3) for detecting the animal and a housing (4). The housing (4) contains: an electrical firing circuit comprising a firing contactor driven by the detection means (3); and means for breaking the electrical firing circuit, making it possible to selectively break or re-establish the continuity of a section of the electrical firing circuit. The pyrotechnic device (1) includes a removable cover (9), which can be fitted over the housing (4) and over the detection means (3) in a covering position to establish the continuity of the firing circuit, and which can be removed to a removed position to break the continuity of the electrical firing circuit. |
| US09314009B2 |
Fishing pole holder assembly
A fishing pole holder assembly attaches a fishing pole to a support structure so that the fishing pole is readily accessbile. The assembly includes a clamp configured for coupling to a support structure. A holding member is provided having a first end and a second end. The second end of the holding member is attached to the clamp. The holding member is tubular. The holding member includes a plurality of upper bends proximate the first end of the holding member wherein the holding member is configured to receive and support a handle of a fishing pole. |
| US09314005B2 |
Genetically modified rat models for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)
This invention relates to the engineering of animal cells, preferably mammalian, more preferably rat, that are deficient due to the disruption of tumor suppressor gene(s) or gene product(s). In another aspect, the invention relates to genetically modified rats, as well as the descendants and ancestors of such animals, which are animal models of human cancer and methods of their use. |
| US09314002B2 |
Electroluminescent pet collars, leashes and personal safety devices
Collar, harness or leash mounted electroluminescent strips are powered by an electronic inverter circuit and batteries inside a plastic housing. A lid on the housing is thinned around a central push button. An extension of the push button activates or deactivates a push switch in the base. An O-ring in a peripheral groove on the base seals a complementary peripheral projection of a lid. Cylinders extend from sides of the base. Knurled and threaded inserts are held in the cylinders. Complementary lid lugs hold set screws which are screwed into the inserts, tightly compressing the O-ring. Knurls on the base and a keeper opposite the knurls hold the housing on the collar. An opening for the electroluminescent strips is partially surrounded by the lugs. |
| US09313998B2 |
Milking system shut-off and sensors
A method, comprises receiving a flow of milk at an inlet of a manifold. The inlet comprises a first end coupled to a hose that receives a flow of milk from a teat cup and a second end terminating in a chamber of the manifold. The manifold comprises one or more other inlets and a plurality of outlets. The plurality of outlets includes one or more milk collector outlets and one or more drain outlets. The method proceeds by causing the flow of milk to be directed to a corresponding milk collector outlet by causing a shut-off valve corresponding to the inlet to open, and by causing a drain valve corresponding to the inlet to close. The method concludes by causing the flow of milk to be directed to a corresponding drain outlet by causing the shut-off valve corresponding to the inlet to close, and by causing the drain valve corresponding to the inlet to open. |
| US09313997B2 |
Method of and an installation for milking an animal
A method of milking an animal comprises determining the identity of the animal and discharging the milk obtained by milking the identified animal to a storage container. The identity of the animal is determined after connecting a teat cup to a teat of the animal or after confining the animal in a milking place and before discharging the milk to the storage container. An installation for milking an animal is provided with a determination device for determining the identity of the animal, a transport arrangement for transporting milk to a storage container for storing the milk and with a control unit for controlling the determination device and the transport arrangements. The control unit is programmed for additionally determining the identity of the animal after connecting a teat cup to a teat of the animal or after confining the animal in a milking place and before discharging the milk to the storage container. |
| US09313992B1 |
Soybean variety XB41B14
A novel soybean variety, designated XB41B14 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB41B14, cells from soybean variety XB41B14, plants of soybean XB41B14, and plant parts of soybean variety XB41B14. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB41B14 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB41B14, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB41B14, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB41B14. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB41B14 are further provided. |
| US09313990B1 |
Soybean variety XB49D14
A novel soybean variety, designated XB49D14 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB49D14, cells from soybean variety XB49D14, plants of soybean XB49D14, and plant parts of soybean variety XB49D14. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB49D14 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB49D14, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB49D14, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB49D14. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB49D14 are further provided. |
| US09313989B1 |
Maize hybrid X13F265
A novel maize variety designated X13F265 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are produced by crossing inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant by crossing hybrid maize variety X13F265 with another maize plant are disclosed. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X13F265 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X13F265, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X13F265. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X13F265. |
| US09313988B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH591615
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH591615. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH591615, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH591615 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH591615. |
| US09313987B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH066626
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH066626. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH066626, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH066626 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH066626. |
| US09313983B2 |
Soybean cultivar S130061
A soybean cultivar designated S130061 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S130061, to the plants of soybean cultivar S130061, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S130061, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S130061. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S130061. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S130061, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S130061 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US09313982B2 |
Soybean cultivar S130054
A soybean cultivar designated S130054 is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of soybean cultivar S130054, to the plants of soybean cultivar S130054, to the plant parts of soybean cultivar S130054, and to methods for producing progeny of soybean cultivar S130054. The invention also relates to methods for producing a soybean plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic soybean plants and plant parts produced by those methods. The invention also relates to soybean cultivars or breeding cultivars, and plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S130054. The invention also relates to methods for producing other soybean cultivars, lines, or plant parts derived from soybean cultivar S130054, and to the soybean plants, varieties, and their parts derived from use of those methods. The invention further relates to hybrid soybean seeds, plants, and plant parts produced by crossing cultivar S130054 with another soybean cultivar. |
| US09313979B1 |
Maize hybrid X08D411
A novel maize variety designated X08D411 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X08D411 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X08D411 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X08D411, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X08D411. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X08D411. |
| US09313977B2 |
Abbasi strain of rice
A method for newly developed strain of rice that grows 6 feet tall with a record yield of 15 ton per hectare, 4 times the world average of 4 ton per hectare. The panicle is 47-50 cm long with 600-700 grains per panicle, with a stem diameter of 1.2 cm. |
| US09313976B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH587098
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH587098. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH587098, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH587098 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH587098. |
| US09313975B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH448920
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH448920. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH448920, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH448920 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH448920. |
| US09313973B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH268013
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH268013. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH268013, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH268013 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH268013. |
| US09313971B2 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH573224
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH573224. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH573224, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH573224 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH573224. |
| US09313967B2 |
Tomato hybrid PX 02470002 and parent lines thereof
The invention provides seed and plants of tomato hybrid PX 02470002 and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of tomato hybrid PX 02470002 and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a tomato plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another tomato plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants. |
| US09313965B2 |
Zucchini hybrid SV9441YG and parents thereof
The invention provides seed and plants of zucchini hybrid SV9441YG and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of zucchini hybrid SV9441YG and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a zucchini plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another zucchini plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants. |
| US09313963B2 |
Squash hybrid EX 04858026 and parents thereof
The invention provides seed and plants of squash hybrid EX 04858026 and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of squash hybrid EX 04858026 and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a squash plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another squash plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants. |
| US09313961B2 |
White-stem trait containing plants
The invention provides Brassica oleracea plants comprising a white-stem trait and methods for producing a plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants. |
| US09313956B2 |
Garden-border system with couplers, stakes, and pins
A unique garden-border system, for sealing the soil and water inside a garden bed, for anchoring a garden bed on a slope, and for forming a staircase-like garden bed on a slope, comprises garden-bed strips having staircase-forming openings and swing-preventing teeth stamped therein, gap-eliminating couplers having slanted-stake tunnels and strip recesses molded therein for coupling the garden-bed strips, multi-function locking pins for locking the garden-bed strips to the gap-eliminating couplers at desired angles and elevations, and anti-sliding V-shaped stakes having underground-interlocking anchors molded thereon for being inserted through the slanted-stake tunnels of the gap-eliminating couplers, to form desired shapes and elevations of the unique garden-border system. |
| US09313955B2 |
Safety device for agricultural machines
A safety device for agricultural machines is provided. The safety device includes a stop element, which can be associated functionally with a kinematic transmission chain interposed between a motor assembly of a working shaft and the working shaft itself to control the working shaft with the complementary stop element. The stop element is movable on command from a passive configuration to an active configuration, in which the stop element is arranged so as to interfere with the trajectory of the complementary stop element, for the forced locking of the latter and of the working shaft, and vice versa. Moreover, either or both of the stop element and the complementary stop element are associated with a unit for damping the forced locking, which can be actuated automatically upon impact of the stop element against the complementary stop element. |
| US09313951B2 |
Optical image capture for controlling a position of a harvester transfer device
Present invention is an adjustable transfer device for unloading processed crop onto a container of a transport vehicle including a control arrangement with an electronic control unit, among other integrated components. Electronic control unit calculates position of expected point of incidence of crop flow on the container within field of view of optical image capture device, displays image of container together with symbol representing calculated expected point of incidence of crop flow on container on display, receives adjustment inputs from user interface for adjusting position of actuator and thus of adjustable transfer device, updates position of symbol in image on display, receives confirmation input from user interface once symbol in image on display is in appropriate position, derives at least one feature in image representing container, and tracks container within output signal of image processing system based on retrieved image feature and controls actuator accordingly to fill container with crop. |
| US09313950B2 |
Multi-purpose spreader of an agricultural vehicle
A spreader system for discharging residue from an agricultural combine to a ground surface. The spreader system including at least one rotatable member positioned to encounter the residue and to disperse the residue when in a first orientation. The at least one rotatable member having a second orientation wherein the rotatable member is configured to contact the ground and to assist in providing support to the agricultural combine when in the second orientation. |
| US09313949B2 |
Combine harvester comprising a chopping mechanism
A combine harvester has a chopping mechanism and a spreading mechanism. The spreading mechanism is disposed downstream of the chopping mechanism, mechanically driven by a drive train and includes at least two rotors. The drive train of the spreading mechanism has a belt drive engageable by a clutch and configured to drive a first transmission stage via an output shaft, at least one second transmission stage drivably connected to the first transmission stage by a shaft and a braking device. The first and second transmission stages each have an output shaft for driving one or each of the rotors. |
| US09313944B1 |
System and method for agriculture using a seed tape
The invention provides an ability to determine a position of a growing plant in a field such that automated or semi-automated means can be deployed more effectively to provide plant maintenance processes during a natural crop cycle. A control system for an agricultural implement may detect detectable elements dispersed between seeds of a seed tape. The control system may determine at least one of a weed zone and a plant zone and may actuate a ground engaging device accordingly. |
| US09313943B2 |
Seed-double eliminator for a planting unit
A seed-double eliminator is described for a seeding machine that moves seed along a seed path. The seed-double eliminator may include a pocket with a pocket opening exposed to the seed path and a pocket cavity extending away from the seed path. A flexible extension may extend from within the pocket cavity toward the seed path. The flexible extension may be disposed to contact at least one seed of a seed-double pair being moved along the seed path by the seeding machine in order to remove the at least one seed from the seed path. |
| US09313941B2 |
Alignment system for a blocking member of a planting unit
A alignment system is described for a blocking member for the transfer of seed from a seed meter with a seed meter housing to a delivery system with a delivery system housing. The blocking member may have a blocking face adjacent a seed path of the seed meter, the blocking face opening to a seed passage, and the seed passage extending through the blocking member to an interface with the delivery system housing. A first recess may be included on the blocking member, and a second recess may be included on the delivery system housing. When the seed passage of the blocking member is correctly aligned with the delivery system, a protrusion on the delivery system housing may be configured to seat firmly in the first recess and a protrusion on the seed meter housing may be configured to seat firmly in the second recess. |
| US09313940B2 |
Convertible till to no-till seed planter
Various seed planter embodiments may comprise a frame including a main frame section and a furrowing disk frame section. A plurality of planter assemblies may be connected to the main frame section, and a plurality of furrowing disks may be connected to the furrowing disk frame section. At least one linkage may connect the main frame section and the furrowing disk frame section, and at least one motor may be configured to move the furrowing disk frame section with respect to the main frame section, wherein the at least one linkage permits the furrowing disk frame section to move to a low position for no-till planting and move to a high position for prepared seed beds or conventional planting. |
| US09320185B2 |
Method of manufacturing a component-embedded substrate
A thin conductive layer which is to form a conductor pattern (18) is prepared, a mask layer (3) is formed on the conductive layer except a plurality of actual connection spots and at least one dummy connection spot on the conductive layer, actual solder pads (6) and a dummy solder pad (7) are formed, with use of solder, on the actual connection spots and the dummy connection spot, respectively, where the conductive layer is exposed, connection terminals (9) of an electric or electronic component (8) are connected to the actual solder pads (6), an insulating base (16) of resin is formed which is laminated directly on or indirectly via the mask layer (3) on the conductive layer and in which the component (8) is embedded, and part of the conductive layer is removed by using the dummy solder pad (7) as a reference, to form the conductor pattern (18). |
| US09320184B2 |
ESD protection structure and method for manufacturing the same
An ESD protection device includes an alumina multilayer substrate, a hollow portion, a discharge electrode pair, discharge-assisting electrodes, and a vitreous substance. The hollow portion is disposed inside of the alumina multilayer substrate. The electrodes of the discharge electrode pair are disposed opposite to each other at an interface between the hollow portion and the alumina multilayer substrate. The discharge-assisting electrodes are disposed dispersedly between the opposite electrodes of the discharge electrode pair. The vitreous substance covers the discharge-assisting electrodes in the inside of the hollow portion. A trial discharge is executed so as to induce creepage discharge between the electrodes of the discharge electrode pair in advance. |
| US09320181B1 |
System and method for dissipating thermal energy away from electronic components in a rotatable shaft
A system for dissipating thermal energy from electronic components disposed within a rotatable shaft includes an annular carrier shaft having one end formed to couple to an end of a rotor shaft. The system also includes a transmitter assembly. The transmitter includes an outer casing, a daughter board and a circuit board electronically coupled to the daughter board within an inner pocket of the transmitter housing. The circuit board comprises a strip of thermally conductive material. The transmitter assembly further includes a lid that at least partially seals the inner pocket. A contact surface of the lid is in thermal communication with the thermally conductive material of the circuit board and at least a portion of a top surface of the lid is thermally coupled to an inner surface of the carrier shaft during rotation thereof. A method for dissipating thermal energy away from the circuit board is also provided. |
| US09320180B2 |
Apparatus and method for cooling and recovering heat from cables and transformers
The present invention provides an apparatus (100) and method for cooling and recovering heat energy from power cables and/or transformers. The apparatus (100) comprises a first conduit (102) in thermal contact with at least one electrical power cable (104) and/or at least one transformer, a heat transfer device (106) coupled to the first conduit (102), fluid circulating means (112) and a heating circuit (114) coupled to the heat transfer device (106) for interfacing with an external heating system (126), such as those typically installed in domestic or commercial premises (128). When in use, the circulating means (112) is operable to circulate a fluid through the first conduit (102) to thereby enable the heat transfer device (106) to recover at least a portion of the heat energy of the cable (104) and/or transformer from the heated fluid for subsequent reuse by an external heating system (126) via the heating circuit (114). The apparatus and method are found to be particularly suited for the recovery and reuse of wasted heat from subterranean high-tension power cables and above surface substation transformers, while cooling the equipment to improve operational performance and lifetime. |
| US09320179B2 |
Gas cooled traction drive inverter
The present invention provides a modular circuit card configuration for distributing heat among a plurality of circuit cards. Each circuit card includes a housing adapted to dissipate heat in response to gas flow over the housing. In one aspect, a gas-cooled inverter includes a plurality of inverter circuit cards, and a plurality of circuit card housings, each of which encloses one of the plurality of inverter cards. |
| US09320176B2 |
Heat dissipation system and rack-mount server using the same
A heat dissipation device includes a heat absorbing member, a number of fins mounted on the heat absorbing member, a first connecting pipe, and a second connecting pipe. A top surface of the heat absorbing member defines a serpentine slot. The slot includes an inlet hole and an outlet hole communicating with two opposite ends of the slot and extending through the heat absorbing member. The first connecting pipe is connected to the inlet hole of the heat absorbing member, and the second pipe is connected to the outlet hole of the heat absorbing member. |
| US09320173B2 |
Semiconductor device having a bulge portion and manufacturing method therefor
A semiconductor device includes a base plate having a first major plane and a second major plane opposite to each other, and having a plurality of fins held upright on the first major plane and a bulge portion formed on the first major plane to encircle the plurality of fins, an insulation layer formed on the second major plane of the base plate, a circuit pattern fixed to the insulation layer, a semiconductor element connected to the circuit pattern, and a sealing resin sealing the insulation layer, the circuit pattern, and the semiconductor element. The bulge portion formed on the first major plane continuously encircles the plurality of fins, the bulge portion has a widthwise margin on an outer peripheral edge of the base plate, and the sealing resin covers an outer peripheral side face of the bulge portion and the widthwise margin. |
| US09320172B2 |
Spacing-saving thermal management system for electronic devices
A thermal management system includes a distributor plate secured to and parallel to a circuit board. The circuit board has a module secured thereto and the distributor plate defines an area on an inner surface thereof secured to or otherwise in thermal contact with the module. Heat pipes embedded in the distributor plate include a portion over the module and a portion over the circuit board outward from the module. A portion of the heat pipes outward from the module may be substantially perpendicular to a direction of airflow between the circuit board and distributor plate. The module may be located closer to one edge of the circuit board and the heat pipes may according extend from adjacent that edge to an opposite edge of the circuit board. An inward facing surface may include fins extending toward the circuit board and the fins may be contoured to the circuit board. |
| US09320169B2 |
Modular dense storage array
Modular dense storage arrays are disclosed. In some embodiments, a modular storage array may include a chassis configured to receive a plurality of drive bay modules, a first of the plurality of drive bay modules configured to receive a first plurality of storage drives in the absence of a drive adaptor, each of the first plurality of storage drives having a first form factor, and a second of the plurality of drive bay modules configured to receive a second plurality of storage drives in the absence of the drive adaptor, each of the second plurality of storage drives having a second form factor different from the first form factor. |
| US09320166B1 |
Multi-shelf power-pooling bus
A system includes a rack, a plurality of shelves, a plurality of shelf-mountable electrical systems, and an inter-shelf power-pooling bus. The inter-shelf power-pooling bus is coupled to a power output of a shelf power supply mechanism on each of the shelves and a power input of a shelf computing device on each of the shelves. The inter-shelf power-pooling bus supplies pooled power from the shelf power supply mechanisms coupled to the inter-shelf power bus to the shelf computing devices coupled to the inter-shelf power-pooling bus. |
| US09320164B1 |
Case for electronic tablet
A cover for a tablet computer incorporates a built-in stand, allowing viewing angles in portrait and landscape orientations. The cover includes a front cover that is connected to a back cover. In an implementation, the front cover has at least five fold lines formed in the cover. These fold lines meet at an intersection point. These fold lines are not parallel to any edges of the front cover. And these fold lines divide the front cover to have least three triangular sections. |
| US09320161B2 |
On-vehicle electronic device
A first drive arm and a second drive arm are rotatably coupled. A tip portion of the first drive arm and a device main body are connected to each other through a first connection link, and a tip portion of a second drive arm and the device main body are connected to each other through a second connection link. Because each of the drive arms and the device main body are connected to each other through an axial rotational portion, the device main body is moves smoothly between an extended position and a retracted position, and vibration and rattling are suppressed. |
| US09320158B2 |
Vehicle control device
A vehicle control device includes a casing that is mounted on a vehicle of an electric vehicle, a machine installing chamber that is provided in the casing and in which a machine that controls the electric vehicle is installed, an air circulating chamber that is provided on a vehicle center side in the casing, a partition plate in which a first through hole that is formed on a side of a top surface of the casing and allows an air a in the machine installing chamber to flow in the air circulating chamber and a second through hole that is formed on a side of a bottom surface of the casing and allows an air in the air circulating chamber to flow in the machine installing chamber are formed, and a radiator radiates heat of an air that flows via the first through hole in the air circulating chamber. |
| US09320156B2 |
Mounting structure for casing of occupant protection device control unit
A casing for housing an occupant protection device unit is composed of a metallic base with its plate surfaces facing upward and downward, respectively, and a main body that is put on and mounted on the surface of the base. A bracket formed integrally with the base is composed of a plate-like leg extending laterally from the edge in the base and a fastening member that is integrally formed at an end of the leg and is bolted to the vehicle body. The leg is composed of a through-hole vertically passing therethrough and the two weak portions. The two weak portions are composed of two branching portions separated by the through-hole in the leg. If an excessive collision load is exerted on the bracket from the vehicle body, the two weak portions are torn off, thereby allowing the occupant protection control unit to be protected. |
| US09320155B2 |
Ceramic substrate composite and method for manufacturing ceramic substrate composite
A ceramic substrate composite includes a conductor pattern composite and an insulating layer on a ceramic substrate. The ceramic substrate composite is formed such that the conductor pattern composite and the insulating layer are provided on the ceramic substrate with each other so that the insulating layer overlaps a part of the conductor pattern composite. The conductor pattern composite is composed of a conductor portion and an insulating portion that exists locally in the conductor portion, and the insulating portion is an insulating material that constitutes the insulating layer. |
| US09320150B2 |
Display apparatus
A display apparatus is provided with: a frame; a display panel, which is fixed to the frame; and a plurality of flexible printed circuit boards, which are disposed adjacent to each other, and each of which has one end side pressure bonded to the display panel, and the other end side bent to the frame side, which is the reverse side of the display panel. The display apparatus has adhesive areas wherein a surface of the display panel is adhered and fixed to the frame, the adhesive areas being in areas overlapping the flexible printed circuit boards. In regions among the flexible printed circuit boards adjacent to each other, non-adhesive areas where the surface of the display panel is not adhered and fixed to the frame are provided. |
| US09320137B2 |
Printed circuit board and method for manufacturing the same
Disclosed are a printed circuit board and a method for manufacturing the same. The printed circuit board includes a flexible substrate divided into first, second, and third regions, a first rigid substrate in the first region of the flexible substrate, and a second rigid substrate in the third region of the flexible substrate. The first and second substrates expose the second region of the flexible substrate. |
| US09320136B2 |
Patterned substrates with darkened multilayered conductor traces
The present disclosure provides an article having a substrate having opposing first and second surfaces. A conductor micropattern disposed on the first surface of the substrate. The conductor micropattern has a plurality of traces defining a plurality of cells. The conductor micropattern has an open area fraction greater than 80% and a uniform distribution of trace orientation. Each of the traces has a trace width from 0.5 to 10 micrometer. The conductor micropattern is a tri-layer material comprising in sequence a semi-reflective metal, a transparent layer, and a reflective layer disposed on the transparent layer. The articles are useful in devices such as displays, in particular, touch screen displays useful for mobile hand held devices, tablets and computers. They also find use in antennas and for EMI shields. |
| US09320132B2 |
Ground device and portable terminal having the same
Provided are a ground device and a portable terminal having the same. The ground device for connecting an inner metallic material with an outer metallic material includes a ground piece electrically connected with the inner metallic material and a connection terminal portion which is bent to extend as one piece from the ground piece and is connected with the outer metallic material. A portable terminal includes an inner metallic material provided in an inner side of a main body of the portable terminal, an outer metallic material provided in a battery cover provided in an outer side of the main body, and a ground device for connecting the inner metallic material with the outer metallic material, and the ground device includes a ground piece mounted in the main body to be connected with the inner metallic material and a connection terminal portion which is multi-step bent as one piece from the ground piece to be connected with the outer metallic material. |
| US09320131B2 |
Power supply device and components thereof
A power supply device includes a capacitance partition, a control partition, a power switching partition, a thermal conduction partition, and a magnetic partition. The thermal conduction partition includes electrical connections to connect other partitions. The thermal conduction partition provides for magnetic shielding of the magnetic partition and thermal dissipation in a substantially orthogonal direction to the electrical connections. The layering arrangement allows automated production and/or testing. |
| US09320130B2 |
Printed circuit board, and board block for vehicles using the same
Disclosure relates to a printed circuit board, and a board block for vehicles using the same. A housing forms an outer appearance of the board block of the present invention. The housing includes a housing body and a housing cover. An interior space is formed in the housing body, and a first connector is integrally formed with one side of an upper end of the housing body. The housing cover covers the upper end of the housing body and a first connector unit. |
| US09320125B2 |
Plasma device
A plasma device including a casing, a first electrode, a second electrode, a nozzle and a gas ejection port is provided. The casing has a first chamber. The first electrode is disposed within the first chamber and has a second chamber. The second electrode capable of rotating in relative to the casing has a third chamber connected with the second chamber. The second chamber and the third chamber are adapted for accommodating plasma formed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The nozzle and the gas ejection port are independently disposed at the bottom of the second electrode respectively, wherein the nozzle is configured to eject the plasma, and forms an included angle with or is spaced a distance apart from a rotating axis of the second electrode. The gas ejection port is configured to eject cold gas. |
| US09320121B2 |
LED lighting apparatus, control system, and configuration method
Apparatus and control systems for LED lighting, and methods for configuring the control systems are provided. An LED lighting apparatus includes: a primary LED lighting device containing a WiFi module and a Zigbee module; and at least one secondary LED lighting device containing a Zigbee module. An LED lighting control system includes an LED lighting apparatus, a WiFi router, and a smart terminal. A Zigbee network is formed by Zigbee modules included in the primary/secondary LED lighting devices. The WiFi module of the primary LED lighting device is connected to internet via the WiFi router. The smart terminal is configured to directly control lighting of the at least one secondary LED lighting device via the primary LED lighting device. |
| US09320113B2 |
Method of self-calibrating a lighting device and a lighting device performing the method
A method of self-calibrating a lighting device, comprising: —monitoring a calibration area, which encompasses at least a part of an area being illuminable by the lighting device; and—calibrating the light output settings of the lighting device. The monitoring operation includes repeating: —detecting any relevant change, out of a set of relevant changes comprising at least a light intensity change, in the calibration area during a monitoring time, while keeping the light output of the lighting device constant; and—determining an amount of change within the monitoring time; until the amount of change is below a limit value. Thereby the lighting device does not perform the calibration until it has detected a period of no or small changes. |
| US09320109B2 |
Color temperature adjusting method of solid state light emitting device and solid state light emitting device using the method
A color temperature adjusting method of solid state light emitting device, including steps: providing a main light source which emits main light of a first color temperature; providing an adjusting light source, wherein the adjusting light source comprises a red light source, a green light source and a blue light source; and adjusting currents applied to the adjusting light sources to obtain an adjusting light, wherein the adjusting light mixes with the main light of the main light source to obtain an outgoing light of a second color temperature. The second color temperature is different from the first color temperature. The outgoing light has a chromaticity coordinate at a Plank's curve on a CIE 1931 chromaticity coordinates chart. |
| US09320107B2 |
Vehicular lamp
The present disclosure provides a vehicular lamp including bypass circuits parallel to light emitting devices to precisely cope with an abnormality of the bypass circuit side. The vehicular lamp includes: one or more bypass units connected in parallel to at least a part of a plurality of light emitting devices to form a bypass route of the emission driving current so that the light emitting device is turned OFF according to a bypass control signal, or to cut off the bypass route; abnormality detecting units configured to generate state signals each of which indicates an normal state or an abnormal state of each of the bypass units; and a control unit configured to control the formation of the bypass route. When the generated state signal indicates that each of the bypass units is abnormal, supply of the emission driving current from the light source power supply is reduced or stopped. |
| US09320104B2 |
Alternating current rectifying circuit and alternating current rectifying method for driving LED module
Disclosed are an alternating current rectifying circuit and an alternating current rectifying method for driving an LED module. The method comprises: when an alternating current module is in a positive half cycle, after an alternating current is rectified, outputting the alternating current to a positive half cycle rectifying branch circuit of an LED module; when the alternating current module is in a negative half cycle, carrying out charging according to the alternating current output by the alternating current module, and when the alternating current module is in the positive half cycle, carrying out discharging, and outputting the alternating current to a positive half cycle feed branch circuit of the LED module; when the alternating current module is in the negative half cycle, rectifying the alternating current, and outputting the alternating current to a negative half cycle rectifying branch circuit of the LED module; when the alternating current module is in the positive half cycle, carrying out charging according to the alternating current output by the alternating current module, and when the alternating current module is in the negative half cycle, carrying out discharging, and outputting the alternating current to a negative half cycle feed branch circuit of the LED module; and when a voltage of an input voltage signal is higher than a preset voltage threshold, turning off an overvoltage protection branch circuit of the LED module. By using the present invention, stability of an output voltage can be improved, and luminous efficiency of the LED module can be improved. |
| US09320101B2 |
LED lighting device and LED control system
LED lighting device and LED control system are provided. An LED lighting device includes an LED power supply unit, a controller unit, a microphone module, a wireless communication module, and an LED light source assembly. An LED control system includes at least one LED lighting device, at least one of a smart terminal and a cloud server, and at least one smart home appliance. When a user sends a voice command to the LED lighting device, the LED lighting device captures and processes signal data from the voice command to provide control data to the smart terminal or cloud server, which then recognizes and processes the control data to provide processed control data. The processed control data are then sent to a corresponding smart home appliance communicated with the smart terminal or the cloud server to control an operation of the smart home appliance. |
| US09320091B2 |
Dimming control for a switching power supply
An example controller includes a measurement block and a drive block. The measurement block determines an amount of time that a dimmer circuit, that is coupled to an input of a power supply, disconnects an ac input voltage. The drive block generates a drive signal to control switching of a switch included in the power supply. The drive block operates a closed loop dimming control when the amount of time is less than or equal to a threshold and operates an open loop dimming control when the amount of time is greater than the threshold. The closed loop dimming control includes setting one or more operating conditions of the drive signal in response to a feedback signal that is representative of an output quantity of the power supply. The open loop dimming control includes holding the one or more operating conditions of the drive signal to a value. |
| US09320087B2 |
Conductive fabric
In a conductive fabric that includes conductive yarn and non-conductive yarn, a fabric end edge in a region that includes an end portion of at least a portion of the conductive yarn is provided in a position recessed farther to an inside of a fabric surface than a fabric end edge in another region. The end portion of the at least a portion of the conductive yarn is provided to the inside of the fabric surface. |
| US09320084B2 |
Heater wire safety circuit
A dual heater wire circuit for use with a heating pad or electric blanket includes two independent heater wire circuits. Each heater wire circuit includes a heater wire and a temperature sensor conductor. The temperature sensor conductor of each heater wire circuit is connected to a capacitor, or to a resistor, to define with the capacitor or resistor a voltage divider circuit. The juncture between the sensor conductors and either the capacitor or the resistor is provided to the input of a microprocessor. The electrical resistance of the temperature sensor conductors varies with temperature. The signal provided to the microprocessor from the voltage dividers formed between the sensor conductors of the heater wires and either the capacitor or resistor will vary in phase or voltage relative to the temperature of the heater wires. The microprocessor controls the duty cycle of the power signal provided to the heater wires. |
| US09320082B2 |
Method and system for switching wireless devices in looped network
The disclosure discloses a method and system for switching wireless devices in a looped network. The wireless devices include a core wireless device and remote wireless devices, and the core wireless device and two or more remote wireless devices, connected through two ports of the core wireless device, constitute a looped network; the method including: when the core wireless device detects that a line error rate at each of the two ports is within a determined threshold range, the core wireless device sends a valid control character, otherwise, the core wireless device sends an invalid control character; wherein the valid control character sent at one of the two ports of the core wireless device is different from that sent at another of the two ports of the core wireless device; when the remote wireless device detects that a line error rate at a receiving end of a master port of the remote wireless device is within the determined threshold range, the remote wireless device forwards the valid control character received at a slave port to the master port, otherwise, the remote wireless device sends the invalid control character to the master port; and the remote wireless device sends the invalid control character to its slave port continuously. With the present disclosure, the stability of the networking mode through the RRUs is promoted. |
| US09320075B2 |
Method, system and transmission distribution network element for indicating data-distribution
The present invention provides a method and system for indicating data offload, and a traffic offload network element, the method comprises: when a radio bearer is established or modified, a mobility management unit of a core network notifies a traffic offload network element of the bearer type of the bearer to determine whether to start the data offload. Through the present invention, the judgment operation of the core network is simplified. In addition, under the situation that the core network side determines whether to start local access function, the traffic offload network element also can correctly start an offload policy. |
| US09320074B2 |
Method for wireless connectivity continuity and quality
Configurations are described for maintaining a continuity and quality of wireless signal connection between a mobile device and systems accessible through the internet. In particular, configurations are disclosed to address the challenge of a mobile device that moves through a physical environment wherein the best wireless connectivity performance is achieved by switching between available connection sources and constantly evaluating a primary connection with other available connections that may be switched in to become a new primary connection. The mobile device may be self-propelled or carried by some other mobilizing means. |
| US09320072B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling random access in wireless communication system supporting carrier aggregation
A random access procedure control method and apparatus is provided for controlling a random access procedure efficiently in a mobile communication system supporting carrier aggregation. The method for controlling random access procedure of a terminal in a wireless communication system having a primary cell and at least one secondary cell includes initiating a random access procedure in the primary cell and the at least one secondary cells, detecting a random access failure of a terminal performing the random access procedure, determining whether the random access failure is detected in the primary cell or the at least one secondary cell, and determining whether to continue the random access procedure according to a result of the determining of whether the random access failure is detected. |
| US09320063B2 |
Resuming packet services in a mobile network
This disclosure relates generally to resuming packet services in a mobile network. A device, method, and/or system may include switching, with user equipment, from communicating with a first radio access network to communicating with a second radio access network, setting, with a processor of the user equipment, a register of the user equipment to initiate packet services with the first radio access network, and transmitting, with the user equipment, a request to a core network node of the first radio access network to resume communications with the first radio access network based, at least in part, on the register. |
| US09320062B2 |
Communication in a heterogeneous network with carrier aggregation
A communication environment with carrier aggregation (CA) is disclosed in which a UE is configured for communication at a first time with a first network node via a primary component carrier (PCC) and a second network node via a secondary CC (SCC). At a second time, the UE is configured for communication with a third network node via the SCC at a second time. The UE maintains communication with the first network node via the PCC without triggering handover at the UE during the establishing communication with the third network node. |
| US09320060B2 |
Method, devices and system for local collision avoidance for random access in relay networks
An apparatus such as a user equipment is in an embodiment of the invention configured to broadcast an access request to at least one neighboring node, the access request containing signature information indicating a user identifier, to check whether a collision indicator is received from a relay node, and to send another access request depending on a received collision indicator. The collision indicator may e.g. be a signature collision indicator, received from the node in case of colliding users, or a collision indicator of transmission received when transmissions of access requests are colliding at the node. A relay node may be configured to receive an access request from a user equipment, to detect a collision, and to inform the user equipment on a detected collision, indicating a type of collision. |
| US09320058B1 |
Use of special random access channel instances for access request interception and forwarding
One or more random access channel (RACH) instances may be specially designated for use by mobile terminals that are in threshold poor coverage of an intended base station. Further, one or more other base stations that provide coverage overlapping with, within, or near coverage of the intended base station may be arranged to monitor the one or more specially designated RACH instances for mobile terminal access requests and, upon detecting any such access request, to forward the access request via an inter-base station link to the intended base station. The intended base station may then respond to the mobile terminal access request through a direct downlink communication to the mobile terminal. |
| US09320057B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing machine-type communication device access in wireless communication system
A method of performing machine-type communication (MTC) device access in a network of a wireless communication system is disclosed. The method comprises generating system information comprising a resource allocation dedicated to the MTC device access for a MTC device not capable of utilizing full system bandwidth of the network; and broadcasting the system information. |
| US09320054B2 |
Device, system and method of scheduling communications with a group of wireless communication units
Some demonstrative embodiments include devices, systems and/or methods of scheduling communications with a group of wireless communication devices. For example, a wireless communication unit may transmit at least one scheduling frame including an indication of a downlink period allocated for simultaneous transmission from the wireless communication unit to at least one group of a plurality of wireless communication devices, wherein the wireless communication unit is to simultaneously transmit a plurality of different wireless communication transmissions to the plurality of wireless communication devices of the group during the downlink period. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09320051B2 |
Evolved allocation retention policy solution
The present invention relates to a solution for handling an evolved allocation and retention priority in a telecommunications network. The solution is based on obtaining an evolved ARP, obtaining an authorized ARP based on the evolved ARP, and transmitting this authorized ARP to nodes in the network. Furthermore, the authorized ARP may be included in information elements involved in mobility procedure messages. |
| US09320040B2 |
Method and device for sending/receiving electromagnetic signals received/sent on one or more first frequency bands
In order to send electromagnetic signals received on one or more first frequency bands, the method applies a transformation to the signals, by performing the following actions: selecting first frequency sub-bands, forming a first set of frequency sub-bands of the first frequency band(s); using organization rules to associate one or more second sets of frequency sub-bands, forming one or more second frequency bands, with each first frequency sub-band of the first set; and using optimization rules to determine frequency translations to transpose the signals received in the first frequency sub-bands into signals sent in the second frequency band(s). |
| US09320039B2 |
Method and arrangement for user equipment switching between carriers in different frequency bands
Method and arrangement in a base station for scheduling communication between the base station and a user equipment in a multi-carrier communication network system. The base station and the user equipment are comprised in the multi-carrier communication network system, and adapted to communicate with each other on downlink carriers and uplink carriers in at least a first frequency band and a second frequency band over a radio interface. The method comprises signalling an indication to the user equipment on the downlink carrier in the first frequency band, which the user equipment currently is scheduled on, to switch to a second carrier in order to communicate data and/or control signalling on the second carrier. In addition, a method and arrangement in a user equipment for assisting the base station in scheduling radio resources are described. |
| US09320036B2 |
Installation of time slots for sending a packet through an ARC chain topology network
One embodiment includes: determining, by a particular networked device, sending and receiving time slots for progressively communicating a particular packet among nodes of an arc of an Available Routing Construct (ARC) chain topology network in both directions on the arc to reach each edge node of the arc; and determining, by the particular networked device, for each edge node of the arc a predetermined respective time slot for communicating the particular packet to a respective child node on a second arc of the ARC chain topology network. One embodiment includes respectively installing said determined time slots in said nodes of the arc. In one embodiment, the network is a wireless deterministic network. In one embodiment, the predetermined respective time slot for each particular edge node is after all time slots in which the particular packet could be received by said particular edge node. |
| US09320035B2 |
Resource allocation apparatus, resource allocation method, and non-transitory computer readable medium
The present invention relates to a resource allocation apparatus, resource allocation method, and non-transitory computer readable medium thereof. The resource allocation apparatus adapted for a network comprising a femto base station (BS) which communicates with the femto BS and includes a storage, a transceiver and a processor connected to the storage and the transceiver. The storage stores a random function, reuse information and fractional frequency reuse (FFR) information which records an original cell ID/frequency corresponding relation of an unoccupied partition of the network. The processor selects a time partition from the unoccupied partition according to the random function and the reuse information, changes the original cell ID/frequency corresponding relation to generate a changed cell ID/frequency corresponding relation according to the FFR information; and generates an allocation message according to the time partition and the changed cell ID/frequency corresponding relation, wherein the transceiver conveys the allocation message to the femto BS. |
| US09320032B2 |
ENB PDCCH implementation to avoid ambiguous DCI information
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided. The apparatus determines a first starting index for transmitting first control information in a first search space, determines a second starting index for transmitting second control information in a second search space, and transmits the second control information in the second search space at the second starting index when the first starting index and the second starting index are not the same value. The apparatus further transmits to a user equipment (UE) control information in a first search space, receives information from the UE corresponding to the transmitted control information, and decodes the received information based on the UE parsing the control information according to the first search space and based on the UE incorrectly parsing the control information according to a second search space. |
| US09320028B2 |
Method, base station, and user terminal for implementing uplink resource indication
A method, a base station (BS), and a user terminal are provided for implementing uplink resource indication. The method includes carrying an uplink resource index in an uplink resource grant (UL Grant), in which an uplink resource index corresponds to at least one uplink resource in terms of indication; and sending the UL Grant. The BS includes an index carrying module and an instruction sending module. The user terminal includes an instruction receiving module, an instruction resolving module, and an execution module. |
| US09320024B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing signaling of redundancy
An approach is provided for efficient signaling of redundancy version information. A redundancy version signaling module detects the start of a system information radio transmission window and assigns a redundancy version sequence at the start of the transmission window. |
| US09320023B2 |
Method and apparatus for receiving a control channel
Various methods and apparatuses for receiving a control channel involve a communication device monitoring a first control and receiving information from a network regarding the configuration of a second control channel. The communication device receives an uplink grant from the network; transmits a message to the network, in which the message indicates to the network that the communication device is capable of monitoring the second control channel. The communication device monitors the second control channel based on the configuration information receiving via the first control channel. |
| US09320022B2 |
Transmission apparatus, receiveing apparatus, transmission method, and receiving method for mapping control signals to different resource regions within the same resource block
In a base station (100), when the number of layers employed is 1 and the employed antenna port and the antenna port used for transmitting the allocation control signal are the same, a transmission controller (102) sets a first data resource region inside a first resource region, in a resource block group (RBG), that can be used for the control channel or the data channel. When the number of layers employed is 1 and the employed antenna port and the antenna port used for transmitting the allocation control signal are different, a transmission controller (102) sets a second data resource region inside the first resource region in the RBG. The second data resource region is larger than the first data resource region. |
| US09320021B2 |
Terminal apparatus, feedback control method, base station, pairing control method, program, and wireless communication system
Provided is a terminal apparatus including an estimation unit that estimates a channel to a base station by using a reference signal transmitted from the base station, a selection unit that selects a transmission weight desirable for second down-link transmission from the base station to another terminal apparatus spatially multiplexed with first down-link transmission on the channel from a plurality of transmission weight candidates in accordance with an estimation result by the estimation unit, and a feedback controller that controls feedback of the transmission weight selected by the selection unit to the base station. |
| US09320019B2 |
Method and system for channel allocation and bandwidth management in a WiFi device that utilizes full spectrum capture
A WiFi device, which utilizes full spectrum capture, captures signals over a wide spectrum including one or more WiFi frequency bands and extracts one or more WiFi channels from the captured signals. The AP analyzes the extracted WiFi channels and aggregates a plurality of blocks of WiFi channels to create one or more aggregated WiFi channels based on the analysis. The WiFi frequency bands comprise 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi frequency bands. The AP determines one or more characteristics of the extracted WiFi channels based on the analysis. The determined characteristics comprise noise, interference, fading and blocker information. The AP generates a channel map comprising at least the extracted one or more WiFi channels based on the determined characteristics. The AP dynamically and/or adaptively senses the extracted one or more WiFi channels and updates the determined characteristics of the extracted WiFi channels. |
| US09320018B2 |
Scheduling data transmissions in a wireless network
Scheduling data transmissions in a wireless network is disclosed. A first value related to a radio bearer is provided to a user equipment (UE) by a wireless network. The wireless network also sends an allocation message for an uplink transmission and receives data in response. The data is selected from a plurality of radio bearers of the UE in response to the received first value and based on a second value. |
| US09320014B2 |
Method and base station for eliminating paging interference in heterogeneous network
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method and a base station for eliminating paging interference in a heterogeneous network. The method for eliminating paging interference includes: receiving, by a first base station, a paging parameter nB sent by a second base station; calculating, by the first base station according to the paging parameter nB of the second base station, a subframe for the second base station to send paging information and a paging frame to which the subframe belongs; obtaining, by the first base station, a set period; sending, by the first base station, paging information on the subframe in the paging frame within the set period; and stopping, by the first base station, information on the subframe in the paging frame within a next set period. Embodiments of the present invention are capable of reducing paging interference in a heterogeneous network. |
| US09320011B2 |
Mobile terminal, method of computing absolute coordinates of wireless AP by mobile terminal, and system of computing absolute coordinates of wireless AP using mobile terminal
A mobile terminal capable of receiving a radio signal from a wireless access point (AP) and a method of computing absolute coordinates of a wireless AP thereof are provided. The mobile terminal includes: a main body; a location information unit mounted in the main body and collecting absolute coordinates of the main body; a wireless communication unit computing relative distance information between an external wireless access point (AP) and the main body by using radio signals transmitted and received between the wireless AP and the main body; a detection unit detecting relative coordinates of the main body by using the distance information and relative coordinates of the wireless AP; and a controller computing absolute coordinates of the wireless AP. |
| US09320009B2 |
Fine timing measurement burst management
Fine Timing Measurement (FTM) Burst Management during Time-of-Flight (ToF) measurements in a wireless network separates FTM traffic from other traffic activity using two distinct Media Access Control (MAC) addresses and by coordinating access availability durations between FTM activity and other traffic. Communication stations save power by powering down receive paths between FTM frames. A communication station arranged for FTM Burst Management comprises physical layer circuitry and processors to use a first MAC address for FTM procedure signals, and a second MAC address that is distinct from the first MAC address for data and traffic signals other than FTM procedure signals, and exchange FTM procedure signals with the Access Point (AP) during scheduled FTM burst access availability periods using the first MAC address, and exchange other data and traffic signals with the AP during other access availability periods using the second MAC address. |
| US09320003B2 |
Detecting a narrow band ranging signal in an OFDM frame
Techniques are presented for a first device configured to be in communication with a second device in a digital communication system to receive an orthogonal frequency division multiplexed (OFDM) ranging signal from the second device. The OFDM ranging signal comprises a plurality OFDM symbols that encode a known bit sequence within a subset of available OFDM communication subcarriers and a subset of available time slots. The OFDM ranging signal is analyzed to determine a timing offset for the second device due to a time for signals to travel between the first device and second device over a communication channel. A message is transmitted from the first device to the second device, the message including information configured to indicate the timing offset. |
| US09320001B2 |
Method of performing uplink synchronization in random access procedure
A method and device for performing a contention based random access procedure by a mobile communication terminal in communication with a base station. The method according to an embodiment includes transmitting a random access preamble message to the base station; receiving a random access response from the base station, the random access response including a timing advance command; determining a status of a mobile communication terminal time alignment timer; and ignoring the timing advance command if the mobile communication terminal time alignment timer is determined to be running in the determining step. |
| US09320000B2 |
Base station and method of controlling transmission power
A base station in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention includes a cumulative value storage unit configured to store a cumulative value of transmission power control commands transmitted to a mobile station; a transmission power control command determination unit configured to determine a transmission power control command based on the cumulative value stored in the cumulative value storage unit, when uplink transmission power is initialized; and a control channel transmission unit configured to transmit the transmission power control command determined by the transmission power control command determination unit to the mobile station on a control channel. |
| US09319996B2 |
System and method for dynamic power regulation in small cells
Disclosed are systems and methods for dynamic power regulation in small cells. In one aspect, a system is configured to determining at least one mobility metric indicative of at least one access terminal mobility at the cell. The system then configured to determine whether the value of mobility metric is acceptable. When the value of mobility metric is unacceptable, the system is configured to increase the transmit power of the cell until the value of mobility metric becomes acceptable. If the value of mobility metric does not become acceptable after increasing the transmit power of the cell above a threshold, the system is configured to decrease the transmit power of the cell. |
| US09319993B1 |
Injecting active periods into scheduled inactive periods
A processing device determines a usage schedule for a mobile device based on one or more first criteria, the usage schedule comprising a scheduled active period of the mobile device and a scheduled inactive period of the mobile device. The processing device identifies an additional active period for the mobile device that is based on one or more second criteria. The processing device causes the mobile device to transition into a low power state during the scheduled inactive period and to transition out of the low power state during the additional active period prior to the scheduled active period, wherein the mobile device will perform a scheduled operation during the additional active period and prior to the scheduled active period. |
| US09319984B2 |
Power supply control in a wireless receiver
A wireless receiver is activated periodically to measure the level of received signals. It measures the average received level over a plurality of the activation periods, and enables the supply of power to receiver circuitry dependent on the measured average value. In one embodiment the power is enabled if an increase in the average value is detected which is greater than a predetermined margin. The average value may be measured in a sliding or stepped window. In another embodiment the power is enabled if the level in an activation period exceeds the average value by a predetermined margin. |
| US09319980B1 |
Efficient digital image distribution
A wearable computing device may receive a data transmission schedule from a wirelessly tethered camera device. The wearable computing device may include a data receiver, and the data transmission schedule may be based on a frame rate and a resolution of the camera device. Possibly in response to receiving the data transmission schedule, the wearable computing device may be readied to receive a data transmission of the data transmission schedule. With the data receiver, the wearable computing device may receive the data transmission. In response to completing the reception of the data transmission, the wearable computing device may power down the data receiver. |
| US09319978B2 |
Network node and methods for selecting access node for communications in wireless communication networks
A method in a network node 150 for assisting a wireless terminal 145 to select an access node for a communication in a wireless communication network 100.The wireless communication network comprises a cellular network access node 130 and a wireless local network access node 140.The network node 150 establishes a state of a wireless local network unit 210 in the wireless terminal, obtains information of a radio condition and/or a load condition of the respective wireless local network access node and cellular network access node, and then determines which access node to use out of the wireless local network access node and the cellular network access node for the communication, based on the established state of the wireless local network unit and the obtained radio condition and/or load condition of the respective wireless local network access node and cellular network access node. |
| US09319977B2 |
Wireless system selection factoring RF resource availability in dual access phones
Methods, devices, and systems embodiments enable management of service preemption of at least one of a plurality of subscriptions that utilize a plurality of radio-frequency (RF) chains on a multi-Subscriber-Identity-Module, multi-active communication device in a manner that can accommodate a variety of different RF hardware components and configurations. Various embodiments provide methods implemented by a processor to manage service preemption. In response to detecting that a service of a second subscription initiated on a first RF chain is or will preempt a service of a first subscription that is also serviced by the first RF chain, the processor may determine whether there is a similar service on a second RF chain that may be used as a substitute for the first subscription's preempted service and, when available, the processor may configure the first subscription to begin utilizing the substitute service until the first RF chain is available. |
| US09319976B2 |
Radio access technology selection in telecommunications system
A telecommunications system comprises a core network, an access control function and a plurality of radio access networks. Each radio access network communicates data to and from the mobile device in accordance with one of a plurality of radio access technologies. When a mobile device requests connection with the core network via a chosen radio access technology, the core network establishes a connection with the mobile device via at least one of the plurality of radio access interfaces. An access control function identifies the mobile device and in accordance with access control criteria generates an attach response indicating with which if any of the plurality of radio access technologies the mobile device may establish the connection and communicates the attach response to the radio access network via which the mobile device has requested the connection. |
| US09319972B2 |
Location based services in communications networks
This disclosure concerns systems and methods for implementing location based services in communications networks. In one example, when the GMLC of a telecommunications network receives a request for the location of a mobile terminal, an SMLC is interrogated to obtain therefrom, if available, data indicative of the location of the relevant mobile terminal. The mobile terminal may be caused to selectively switch between a GSM radio access network and another access network if no location information is derivable from one of the access networks currently used by the device. |
| US09319966B2 |
Address processing method, gateway device, and access point
Embodiments of the present invention relate to an address processing method, a gateway device, and an access point. An access point sends a request message to a gateway device. The access point obtains an address of an access controller from the gateway device. The address of the access controller is an address of an access controller selected by the gateway device. The access point establishes a CAPWAP tunnel with the access controller selected by the gateway device. |
| US09319963B2 |
Home base station management using extended closed subscriber group access
The application relates to managing interference at the user equipment caused by femtocell base stations, such as home base stations, home E-UTRAN Node B base stations, and the like, configured with closed subscriber groups by allowing the user equipment to access a femtocell base station which would normally not allow access to the user equipment because the user equipment is not a member of the CSG being served by the femtocell base station. When a user equipment is within range of HeNB serving a CSG cell to which the user equipment is allowed access, referred to as the “allowed HeNB”, the user equipment may encounter severe interference from another, adjacent HeNB serving another CSG cell, which the user equipment may not be allowed access to, referred to as the “not allowed HeNB”, and which may have a stronger signal in terms of power than the HeNB including the CSG to which access is allowed. Rather than to allow the user equipment (114) to access the allowed HeNB (CSG HeNB 1) to which it is a subscriber by virtue of the CSG, the application proposes to instead allow the user equipment (114) to access the adjacent, not allowed HeNB (CSG HeNB 2) serving the other CSG cell, which the user equipment is not allowed to access by virtue of the user equipment not being a member/subscriber of the other CSG. |
| US09319962B2 |
Local path repair in a wireless deterministic network
In one embodiment, an initial path is established in a wireless deterministic network between a source and a destination through one or more intermediate nodes, which are typically informed of a required metric between the source and the destination for communicating a packet. The initial path is locally (e.g., without contacting a path computation engine) reconfigured to bypass at least one of the intermediate nodes creating a new path, with the new path meeting the requirement(s) of the metric. Note, “locally reconfiguring” refers to the network nodes themselves determining a replacement path without reliance on a path computation engine or other entity (e.g., network management system, operating support system) in determining the replacement path. In one embodiment, a network node not on the initial path replaces a node on the initial path while using the same receive and send timeslots used in the initial path. |
| US09319960B2 |
Establishing mobile connectivity conditions for mobile subscriber units in a wireless communication networks
An apparatus and method for establishing mobile connectivity conditions for mobile subscriber units in a wireless communication network includes scanning, by each mobile subscriber unit, for candidate access points and affiliated channels for roaming, whereupon the unit can roam from an originating access point to one of the candidate access points on an affiliated channel for roaming. A link record in the mobile subscriber unit is used for recording an entry including the originating access point, the candidate access point, the affiliated channel for roaming, and a handoff experience value. The link record can be used upon subsequent roaming of the unit to attempt a self-devised handoff without further scanning for access points and affiliated channels. Link records can be shared between mobile subscriber units to speed up map building of link records. |
| US09319953B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for handovers between heterogeneous networks
A mobile communication device is provided with a plurality of processing logic units. A first processing logic unit is configured to connect the mobile communication device to a first wireless network for wireless transceiving via a first link. A second processing logic unit is configured to determine whether a second link to a second wireless network is available in response to detecting a low performance condition of the first link. Particularly, the first wireless network and the second wireless network are heterogeneous networks. A third processing logic unit is configured to hand over the mobile communication device from the first wireless network to the second wireless network in response to a transceiving rate of the second link being greater than a first value. |
| US09319946B2 |
System for efficient recovery of Node-B buffered data following MAC layer reset
A method and system for the UE and RNC to reduce transmission latency and potentially prevent loss of PDUs upon a MAC-hs layer reset. The RNC generates a radio resource control (RRC) message with a MAC-hs reset indication. The MAC reset indication requires the UE to flush buffers for configured HARQ processes, disassemble MAC protocol data units (PDUs) in the reordering buffers, deliver MAC-d PDUs to a MAC-d layer, and configure the MAC-hs to receive new data. |
| US09319943B2 |
Method and apparatus for supporting multimedia service in electronic device
A method in an electronic device, comprises, in response to an Internet Protocol (IP) voice packetized data call being performed in a first call session of a first communication processor and occurrence of a handover event from the first communication processor to a second communication processor, receiving at least one of, (a) a control message and (b) IP packetized voice data, via the second communication processor. The control message received from the second communication processor is forwarded to the first communication processor. |
| US09319937B2 |
Method and arrangement for load management in heterogeneous networks with interference suppression capable receivers
In a method of providing load measurements in an interference suppression capable radio base station node associated with a plurality of users in a heterogeneous wireless communication system, applying interference suppression to received signals in the radio base station node, to provide interference suppressed received signals. Subsequently, estimating neighbor cell interference based on the interference suppressed received signals, and estimating a reference received total wideband power, based on the interference suppressed received signals. Then performing the steps of determining a first load measure based on the interference suppressed received signals and the estimated reference received total wideband power, and determining a second load measure based on the interference suppressed received signals, the estimated reference received total wideband power and on the estimated neighbor cell interference. |
| US09319924B2 |
Method and system for controlling effective time of terminal trigger message
A method for controlling effective time of a terminal trigger message is disclosed. The method includes: a mobility management unit receives a terminal trigger message from a Machine Type Communication (MTC) application server; and in a scenario of congestion control, the mobility management unit determines that a time value of a back-off timer is longer than a time value of an effective timer related to the terminal trigger message, and reconfigures the time value for the effective timer related to the terminal trigger message. A system for controlling effective time of a terminal trigger message is further disclosed. With the present disclosure, before the back-off timer of a terminal expires, a network can reserve the trigger message to avoid an unsuccessful trigger of the terminal, thus improving a success rate of triggering the terminal. |
| US09319913B2 |
Wireless end-user device with secure network-provided differential traffic control policy list
A wireless end-user device has wireless wide-area network (WWAN) and wireless local-area network (WLAN) modems. One or more processors classify whether an application is interacting with a user in a user interface foreground of the device. At a time when Internet service activities are communicated through a first wireless network type, the processors use a differential traffic control policy list to determine whether or not to apply a differential traffic control policy to an application requesting Internet service access. When the policy is applicable, and the application is not classified as interacting with a user in the device user interface foreground, the Internet service access request is blocked. A network element supplies or contributes to the contents of the traffic control policy list via secure updates transmitted to the processor(s). |
| US09319912B2 |
System and method for concurrently testing multiple packet data signal transceivers capable of communicating via multiple radio access technologies
System and method for using a shared packet data signal source to test multiple packet data signal transceiver devices under test (DUTs) capable of communicating using multiple radio access technologies (RATs). The signal source provides a packet data signal that includes a plurality of sequential signal segments having respective signal timing parameters and mutually distinct signal characteristics in accordance with the RATs. Based upon the signal timing parameters, at least a portion of each signal segment is routed to a respective one of multiple signal connections for conveyance to a corresponding DUT. |
| US09319910B2 |
Communication system
A communication system includes a mobile terminal, a base station, a first gateway device, a second gateway device, a flow measurement server, a quality management server, and an operational terminal. A predetermined flow is extracted by a quality management server, and the extracted flow is summarized for each communication path. A distribution of the communication quality of the flow for each communication path is displayed on a display unit of the operational terminal. |
| US09319907B2 |
Rate adaptation for WiFi based wireless sensor devices
A rate selection method for WiFi based wireless sensor devices include storing parameters of communication packets successfully transmitted and received by a wireless device prior to turning off a wireless device, comparing a first set of parameters of a received communication signal to the parameters of the received communication packets and identifying at least one received communication packet of the communication packets based on the comparison of the first set of parameters. The rate selection method also includes comparing a second set of parameters of the received communication signal to the parameters of the identified at least one received communication packet to identify a close received communication packet of the identified at least one received communication packet and identifying a communication rate for current packets communicated by the wireless device based on the comparison of the second set of parameters. |
| US09319906B2 |
Preemptive packet for maintaining contiguity in cyclic prioritized multiple access (CPMA) contention-free sessions
An access point transmits a preemptive peg packet when it has no data to transmit in order to maintain the contiguity of its transmission timing position with respect to the timing position of other contention-free sessions (CFS) transmitted by other access points in an existing, periodic sequence. The cyclic prioritized multiple access (CPMA) method establishes the transmission timing position of contention-free sessions (CFS) between overlapping first and second wireless LAN cells contending for the same medium. Each cell includes a respective plurality of member stations. If an access point has no traffic, it will transmit a short, preemptive pegging packet and reset its backoff timer. In this manner, no gaps longer than the distributed coordination function (DCF) Interframe Space (DIFS) are left idle. This prevents other stations from using DCF contention to seize the channel, until all access points have completed one contention-free session (CFS) per periodic cycle. |
| US09319905B2 |
Re-tasking balloons in a balloon network based on expected failure modes of balloons
Example methods and systems for assigning tasks to balloons within a balloon network are described. One example system includes a first sub-fleet of balloons assigned a first set of one or more tasks within a balloon network, a second sub-fleet of balloons assigned a second set of one or more tasks within the balloon network, and a control system configured to determine that a first balloon in the first sub-fleet of balloons initially has a predicted failure mode that corresponds to the first set of tasks, subsequently determine that the first balloon has a predicted failure mode that corresponds to the second set of tasks, and reassign the first balloon from the first sub-fleet of balloons to the second sub-fleet of balloons. |
| US09319904B1 |
Wireless device calibration for implicit transmit beamforming
A first sounding packet is transmitted from the wireless communication device to a calibration station. A first channel descriptor is generated based on the first sounding packet. A second sounding packet is transmitted from the calibration station to the wireless communication device. A second channel descriptor is generated based on the second sounding packet. The first channel descriptor and the second channel descriptor are obtained at a processor device. Calibration coefficients indicative of one or both of phase imbalance and amplitude imbalance between a receive radio frequency (RF) chain and a transmit RF chain at the wireless communication device are generated based on the first and the second channel descriptors. The calibration coefficients are sent from the processor device to the wireless communication device. |
| US09319903B1 |
Mesh wireless network for agricultural environment
A network for monitoring and controlling agricultural operations employs a wireless mesh network to provide feedback related to an agricultural field located remotely from a computer system/server. In some embodiments, the wireless mesh network may employ for example, the IEEE 802.11s and 802.11n standard to communicate data from a sensor in the agricultural field to and between remote access points in the mesh network. |
| US09319900B1 |
Optimization of cell tower functionality on high capacity sites
Methods and systems are provided for optimization of the functionality of a radio tower comprising multiple radios. A baseband unit receives data on an uplink data transmission from a first radio but not from a second radio present at the radio tower. The baseband unit processes the data and transmits, on a downlink data transmission, the data to the first radio and to the second radio. Both radios may have a combined quantity of radio ports whose channels are combined by way of a combiner such that the quantity of channels become equivalent to the quantity of antenna ports on the antenna at the radio tower. |
| US09319895B2 |
Nodes and methods for enhancing positioning
The present disclosure relates to a positioning node, a core network node, a radio network (RN) node, and a user equipment (UE) of a wireless network, and to a related method of supporting UE positioning. The method comprises transmitting UE radio access capability information and/or radio network node capability information to the positioning node. The transmission of UE radio access capability information is either unsolicited or triggered by a request. The UE radio access capability information may be transmitted from the CN node, from the RN node or from the UE, and the RN node capability information is received from the RN node itself. The positioning node supports positioning of the UE based on the received UE radio access capability information and/or the radio network node capability information. |
| US09319890B2 |
Femtocell measurements for macro beam steering
Attachment data collected by a set of femto access points (FAPs) is utilized to localize, predict, and/or weight potential wireless communication traffic within and between areas. Moreover, the attachment data can be indicative of user equipment (UE) density/traffic within coverage areas of respective femtocells. The attachment data can be consolidated and analyzed to identify location and motion of a UE “swarm”. Moreover an automatic cell planning (ACP) component can be employed to utilize the attachment data for determining an optimal macro site and optimal antenna setting(s) that facilitate steering/tuning the macro antenna beam to focus upon the swarm area. In addition, the ACP component can facilitate reconfiguration of the macro antenna beam as reported swarm concentrations shift between the FAPs. |
| US09319884B2 |
Remote unlocking of telecommunication device functionality
Techniques are described herein for deciding whether to unlock functionality of a telecommunication device based on one or more policies. A policy engine remote from the telecommunication device may receive, via a user interface associated with the policy engine, a request to unlock the functionality. The policy engine may then decide whether to unlock the functionality and, in response to deciding to unlock the functionality, may cause transmission of instructions to the telecommunication device to unlock the functionality. |
| US09319880B2 |
Reformatting data to decrease bandwidth between a video encoder and a buffer
A reference picture buffer may supply an asymmetric macroblock to a video encoder to improve the bandwidth between the encoder and buffer. The macroblock width may be sized to match the minimum burst width of the buffer. The size of the macroblock may be kept unchanged by reducing the macroblock height. |
| US09319878B2 |
Streaming alignment of key stream to unaligned data stream
Enhanced cryptographic techniques are provided which facilitate higher data rates in a wireless communication system. In one aspect, improvements to the ZUC algorithm are disclosed which can reduce the number of logical operations involved key stream generation, reduce computational burden on a mobile device implementing ZUC, and extend battery life. The disclosed techniques include, for instance, receiving, at a wireless communication apparatus, a data stream having data packets for ciphering or deciphering. The wireless apparatus can generate a cipher key for the cryptographic function, determine a starting address of a first data packet in the data stream and shift the cipher key to align with the starting address of the first data packet. Once aligned, the processing apparatus applies the cryptographic function to a first block of the first data packet using the shifted cipher key and manages a remaining portion of the cipher key to handle arbitrarily aligned data across multiple packets. |
| US09319873B2 |
Device ownership security on a network
A method for device ownership security is disclosed. The method includes storing an ownership record on a mobile device identifying a home network for the mobile device. The method further includes connecting, by the mobile device, to a foreign network. The method also includes receiving, from the home network, a negative communication based on an indication that the mobile device is at least one of stolen and lost as a second portion of the transaction. The method still further includes ceasing a function of the mobile device in response to the negative acknowledgment. |
| US09319865B2 |
Apparatus and method of providing end-to-end call services
An apparatus and a method are provided. The provided solution includes an apparatus including a transceiver to be in wireless connection with one or more sets of user equipment and a controller configured to connect to the Internet, set up a virtual point-to-point connection to a second apparatus, set up and provide end-to-end call services using the virtual point-to-point connection between user equipment which are connected to and served by the apparatuses. |
| US09319864B2 |
Method and system for roaming of a mobile communications unit
A method when roaming by a mobile communication device including a SIM card identifying itself using an IMSI roams between a home network and one or several visited networks, which networks are interconnected by a PSTN. The method a) stores on the SIM card a first IMSI associated with a first collaborating network; b) initiates a location update procedure using the first IMSI; c) triggered by the location update procedure and based on the first IMSI, causes an STP (Signal Transfer Point) of the first collaborating network to send a location update message to an ITP (Internet Transfer Point); and d) causes the first ITP to forward the message to an STP of the home network via a wide area network and not using the PSTN. |
| US09319862B2 |
Supplemental cross-technology discovery
A method and an apparatus for wireless communication are provided. In one aspect, the apparatus may be a user equipment (UE), base station, or access point. The apparatus broadcasts peer discovery information in a high-level expression data structure that supports multiple discovery technologies from a variety of wireless networks. By using the high-level expression data, the apparatus may use a single, unified discovery application programming interface for signaling the presence of any supplemental cross-technology discovery information as such information became available. In another aspect, the apparatus may be a UE. The apparatus receives the broadcasted high-level expression data in a peer discovery signal and processes the data. |
| US09319861B2 |
Method and apparatus for small cell discovery and user equipment discovery
Methods, apparatuses and a computer program product for small cell and user equipment discovery. The present invention includes obtaining information regarding small cell discovery on macro layer, obtaining information regarding user equipment discovery, determining whether the information regarding user equipment discovery depends on the information regarding small cell discovery, if it is determined that the information regarding user equipment discovery depends on the information regarding small cell discovery, building parameters for user equipment discovery based on parameters for small cell discovery included in the information regarding small cell discovery, and starting small cell discovery and user equipment discovery based on the parameters. |
| US09319856B1 |
Routing messages to user devices
Systems and methods are disclosed for routing messages to one or more of a plurality of user devices associated with a particular user to whom a particular message is to be provided. The message destination user device(s) may be determined by evaluating the user interactions on each of the plurality of user device. The message destination user device(s) may be selected as the user device(s) that are predicted to have a relatively high level of interaction and/or activity with the user to whom the message is to be provided or is in relative proximity of the user to whom the message is to be provided. When the message destination user device(s) are determined, the message may be transmitted to that/those message destination user device(s) for rendering to the user to whom the message is to be provided. |
| US09319855B2 |
Wireless charging and communication with wireless communication devices in a communication system
A personal computing system and a mobile phone interoperate according to a wireless charging protocol while in a charging arrangement. The personal computing system can wirelessly charge a power source of the mobile phone. The personal computing system and the mobile phone are in a communication system. A server communicatively coupled to a first network and a wireless communication network can inhibit in the wireless communication network transmission of messages destined for reception by one of the personal computing system and the mobile phone, in response to determining that the personal computing system and the mobile phone are in a charging arrangement. |
| US09319849B2 |
Content output system
A content output system includes a plurality of mobile terminals that store content data, and a content display apparatus that is communicatively connected to the plurality of mobile terminals, obtains the content data from the mobile terminals, and displays the content data on a display. The content display apparatus displays the content data on the display in association with the mobile terminals that store the content data. |
| US09319847B2 |
Method and apparatus of MBMS-based content transmissions in machine-type communications
A method and apparatus of content transmission based on multimedia broadcast/multicast service (MBMS) in a machine type communication (MTC). A BM-SC receives a session start time from a MTC server; sends to a plurality of MTC devices a service announcement including the session start time; begins to establish MBMS bearers to the plurality of MTC devices when the session start time is reached; and transmits MTC service content from the MTC server to the plurality of MTC devices via the MBMS bearers. A MTC device receives a service announcement including a session start time therein; when the session start time is reached, wakes up to receive a notification about the MBMS bearers; and then receives MTC service contents transmitted via the MBMS bearers. |
| US09319844B2 |
Determining location based on both a detected location and a predicted location
A system and method is described that computes an estimated current location for a client device based on both the detected current location and the predicted current location of the client device. By utilizing the predicted current location, the system and method may account for and compensate for anomalies and inaccuracies in the detected current location. Accordingly, the system and method provides a more accurate estimation for the current location of the client device based on examination of heuristics and a priori environmental data. In particular, the system and method compensates for detected locations that are impossible or improbable based on previous locations of the client device, the layout of the environment in which the client device is traversing, data describing the user of the client device, and/or data describing the client device. |
| US09319839B2 |
Coverage area-centric data transmission methods and systems
Coverage area-centric data transmission systems and methods are provided. First, the location of an electronic device is obtained, and a coverage area parameter is received. A data transmission coverage area is defined according to the location of the electronic device and the coverage area parameter. Then, specific data corresponding to the electronic device is transmitted to at least one candidate electronic device within the data transmission coverage area. |
| US09319835B2 |
Securely managed location-and-tracking service access
Systems and techniques for securely managed location-and-tracking service (LTS) access are described herein. A trusted execution environment (TEE) may establish a connection to an LTS. The TEE may provide verification to the LTS that the connection origination from the TEE. The TEE may request an LTS location for the mobile device from the LTS using the connection. The TEE may provide the LTS location to applications of the mobile device. |
| US09319832B2 |
Location-based social software for mobile devices
A method for communicating location information to a device includes receiving, at a computer system that implements a social networking service, location information that represents a geographic location of a device associated with a first user; associating, by the computer system, the received location information with a profile associated with the first user; and sending, from the computer system to a device associated with a second user, a message that is generated based at least in part on the location information. |
| US09319824B2 |
System, wireless communication device and method for combining compatible services
The present invention provides a system, wireless communication device, method and computer program product for combining one or more compatible services with a current service. A user of a wireless communication device is subscribed with a registered service provider. A user sends a request for identifying the one or more compatible services with the current service to the registered service provider. The registered service provider identifies and sends a list of the identified compatible services to the wireless communication device. The user then selects at least one compatible service from the list of the identified compatible services. Thereafter, the registered service provider sends the software required for combining the selected compatible services with the current service. The user creates a combined service by combining the selected compatible services with the current service using the software on the wireless communication device. |
| US09319820B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for use in creating an audio scene for an avatar by utilizing weighted and unweighted audio streams attributed to plural objects
An apparatus for creating an audio scene for an avatar in a virtual environment, the apparatus comprising: an audio processor operable to create a weighted audio stream that comprises audio from an object located in a portion of a hearing range of the avatar; and associating means operable to associate the weighted audio stream with a datum that represents a location of the portion of the hearing range in the virtual environment, wherein the weighted audio stream and the datum represent the audio scene. The weighted Audio stream also includes an unweighted audio stream that comprises audio from another object located in the hearing range of the avatar. |
| US09319815B2 |
Managing audio output through an intermediary
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for managing audio output through an intermediary. In some embodiments, an audio controller emulates a direct connection between an audio source device and an audio output device. In other embodiments, audio content local to an audio controller is combined with other audio content passing through the audio controller on its way from an audio source device to an audio output device. In additional embodiments, an audio output device is locked to an audio controller. The lock survives power cycling and soft resets of the audio output device. A special hard reset can be used to release the audio output device. |
| US09319814B2 |
Method for fitting a hearing aid device with active occlusion control to a user
Methods and apparatus for fitting a hearing aid device (3) that includes a part which is arranged in the ear canal (2) of a user (31). |
| US09319807B2 |
Device with combined antenna and transducer
A system includes an earhook having a connector for coupling to a behind-the-ear component of a hearing prosthesis. The earhook further includes a transducer and combined electromagnetic (EM) and magnetic induction (MI) antenna circuitry coupled to the transducer. The combined EM and MI antenna circuitry also includes an electrically conductive portion of the transducer and at least one inductor. |
| US09319802B2 |
Personal audio system and method
A suppressed carrier audio system can include a modulator having an input configured to receive an audio signal having audio content and configured to modulate the received audio signal onto an ultrasonic carrier to produce a modulated signal; a bandpass filter to receive the modulated signal and suppress or remove the carrier from the modulated signal, and further configured to pass a sideband of the modulated signal thereby creating a suppressed carrier signal; and a first ultrasonic transducer having an input coupled to receive the suppressed carrier signal, the ultrasonic transducer configured to emit the suppressed carrier signal in a direction toward an intended listener. The system can also include a demodulator having a signal generator configured to generate a carrier signal and a second ultrasonic transducer having an input coupled to receive the carrier signal and to emit the carrier signal in a direction toward the intended listener. |
| US09319797B2 |
Electromagnetic vibration device and manufacturing method thereof
An electromagnetic vibration device includes a vibration plate device, a voice coil assembly, a magnetic loop system, and a peripheral basin frame. One end of the peripheral basin frame is coupled to the vibration plate device, and the other end thereof is coupled to the magnetic lop system. The peripheral basin frame includes a plurality of connecting frames, wherein every two connecting frames are connected by a connecting member to form an integral peripheral basin frame. The size of the peripheral basin frame is adjusted by the distance between the connection frames or relative increase of the number of the connection frames, so that the size of the peripheral basin frame is adjustable to match with the vibration plate device of the electromagnetic vibration device. Only a mold is required to manufacture the connecting frame to form the peripheral basin frame for different sizes of electromagnetic vibration device. |
| US09319794B2 |
Surround sound system
A surround sound system for reproducing a spatial sound field in a sound control region within a room having at least one sound reflective surface. The system uses multiple steerable loudspeakers located about the sound control region, each loudspeaker having a plurality of different individual directional response channels being controlled by respective speaker input signals to generate sound waves emanating from the loudspeaker with a desired overall directional response. A control unit connected drives each of the loudspeakers and has pre-configured filters based on measured acoustic transfer functions for the room for filtering the input spatial audio signals to generate the speaker input signals for all the loudspeakers to generate sound waves with coordinated overall directional responses that combine together at the sound control region in the form of either direct sound or reflected sound from the reflective surface(s) of the room to reproduce the spatial sound field. |
| US09319790B2 |
Systems and methods of frequency response correction for consumer electronic devices
Frequency response correction systems and methods for consumer electronic (CE) devices are disclosed. Applying one or more of disclosed techniques can improve a consumer's listening experience. The frequency response of a CE device can be corrected to remove or attenuate salient, undesirable features of with minimal user interaction. Audio quality can be tuned for optimal or near optimal performance even at maximum or near maximum volume levels substantially without fluctuations, clipping, or any other distortions. In some embodiments, audio response of the CE device can be captured, smoothed, and corrected. Correction parameters can be stored on the CE device. |
| US09319789B1 |
Bass enhancement
The present invention relates to a bass enhancement system comprising a bass substitution filter with variable gain and variable band width, wherein said variable gain and variable bandwidth at least partly depends on characteristics of an input signal.The present invention further relates to a bass enhancement system according to the above, further comprising a hearing compensation filter and a loudspeaker bass response compensation filter, wherein said input signal is coupled to said hearing compensation filter, the output of which is coupled to said loudspeaker bass response filter, the output of which is coupled to said bass substitution filter.The present invention further relates to a method of enhancing bass perception comprising boosting a reproducible bass frequency band in accordance with characteristics of signal content in a substantially non-reproducible bass frequency band. |
| US09319778B2 |
Communicating via a body-area network
In a first example of “Body-Area Networking” (“BAN”), a user wishing to access his electronic device ingests a small pill carrying a transmitter. The transmitter's signal carries an identification code that traverses the user's BAN and is read by the device. If the device recognizes that identification code as authenticate, then the device grants the user the desired access. In another example, the user again swallows a transmitter. When the user shakes hands with another person, the signal originating at the ingested transmitter is carried across the BAN of the first user, travels across the handshake to the BAN of the second user, then traverses the second user's BAN to her device. In a third example, a media player transmits audio information across the BAN to a headset worn by the user. The headset receives the signal, demodulates it, and renders the audio to the user. |
| US09319772B2 |
Multi-floor type MEMS microphone
A multi-floor type MEMS microphone includes a housing formed by a stack of circuit boards and provided with a first cavity, a second cavity in vertical communication with the first cavity, and a sound hole in communication with the second cavity. The second cavity has a vertical cross-sectional area smaller than that of the first cavity. A MEMS transducer is disposed in the second cavity and electrically conducted with the housing, and an ASIC chip is disposed in the first cavity and electrically conducted with the housing. By this design, the volume of the back chamber of a vibrating diaphragm of the MEMS transducer can be increased in a limited space of the housing, and thus the sensitivity of the microphone can be improved. |
| US09319771B2 |
Earphone
The present invention relates to an earphone, which comprises a shell, a speaker arranged in said shell, an sound chamber corresponding to said speaker and an E&M, in which the sound emission hole is arranged in said E&M, and connected with said sound chamber; the earphone also comprises a normally closed pressure relief channel used for connecting the said sound chamber and the outside, and connected when a user puts said E&M in the ear canal. |
| US09319770B2 |
Audio devices configured to emit differing sound profiles and related methods
Audio devices may include a first audio accessory and a speaker assembly configured for releasable attachment to the first audio accessory. The speaker assembly may include a speaker and a speaker housing coupled to the speaker, the speaker housing shaped to form an acoustic cavity proximate at least a portion of the speaker. The speaker assembly may be configured to produce a first emitted sound pressure level (SPL) profile over a range of frequencies when the speaker assembly is attached to the first audio accessory, and to produce a different second emitted SPL profile over the range of frequencies when the speaker assembly is not attached to the first audio accessory. |
| US09319769B2 |
Wireless headphones
Wireless headphones include left and right earphones connected by a cable. Each of the left and right earphones comprising a generally C-shaped body adapted to fit behind the user's ear, with a concave inner edge, a convex outer edge, a first end that is positioned generally adjacent the top of the user's ear and a second end positioned generally adjacent the bottom of the user's ear when the body is positioned behind the user's ear. A speaker having a sound tunnel associated therewith adapted to fit in the ear canal of the wearer; a resilient support extending forwardly and downwardly from the top end of the C-shaped body, the support normally supporting the speaker in a position which, when the C-shaped body behind the user's ear, is misaligned with the user's ear canal, but resiliently deflects to allow the sound tunnel to align with and be inserted into the user's ear canal, thereby resiliently biasing the C-shaped body against the user's head. |
| US09319767B2 |
Earphone
An earphone includes: a loudspeaker unit; a sound conductive tube which is connected to a front surface having a diaphragm included in the loudspeaker unit, and has a hole through which a sound generated from the loudspeaker unit is emitted; a housing which is connected to a back surface of the loudspeaker unit so that a space is formed between the housing and the back surface of the loudspeaker unit, and has a first air hole connecting the space to external air; a first braking part which closes a sound hole of the loudspeaker unit; and a second braking part which closes the first air hole. |
| US09319765B2 |
MEMS microphone assembly and method of manufacturing the MEMS microphone assembly
The present invention concerns a MEMS microphone assembly (1) comprising a MEMS transducer element (2) comprising a MEMS die (3), a back plate (4) and a diaphragm (5) displaceable in relation to the back plate (4), and a sound inlet (16) for acoustically coupling the MEMS transducer element (2) to the exterior of the MEMS microphone assembly (1), wherein the MEMS die (3) comprises an indentation (17) that forms at least a part of the sound inlet (16). Further, the present invention concerns a method of manufacturing said MEMS microphone assembly (1). |
| US09319763B2 |
Cart assembly
A cart assembly is provided for transporting multiple loudspeakers that are stacked in a pre-assembled line array. The cart assembly includes a base and at least two wheels that are mounted to the base. A plurality of loudspeakers having a non-parallelogram cabinet are stacked on the base in a vertical line array with a splay angle between a pair of axis each extending through about a horizontal axis between adjacent loudspeakers. The cart assembly is coupled to at least one of the plurality of loudspeakers. The cart assembly and the plurality of loudspeakers arranged in the vertical line array are transported to a desired location. |
| US09319762B2 |
Water-proof sound transmitting member
Provided is a water-proof sound transmitting member that is less likely to be bonded to a housing at a position other than a normal attachment position. The present invention provides a waterproof sound transmitting member (2) having a multilayer structure. This water-proof sound transmitting member (2) includes: a water-proof sound transmitting membrane (11) to be attached to a housing having a hole that allows sound to pass therethrough; a support layer (12) to be attached to the housing together with the waterproof sound transmitting membrane (11), the support layer (12) allowing sound to pass therethrough; and a housing-side adhesive layer (21) for bonding the waterproof sound transmitting membrane (11) to the housing. The entire peripheral portion of the support layer (12) extends outwardly beyond the housing-side adhesive layer (21). |
| US09319758B2 |
Method and system for protection switching in ethernet passive optical networks
One embodiment provides a system that performs protection switching in an Ethernet passive optical network (EPON), which includes an optical line terminal (OLT) and at least one optical network unit (ONU). The system is configured with at least one redundant component for the OLT and/or ONUs, wherein the redundant component can be optical or electrical, and can be a port, line card or link. The system provides protection by detecting a failure, and switching automatically to the redundant components to reduce service disruption time. The protection switching comprises: preserving the existing configuration over the loss of at least one of a multiple-point control protocol (MPCP) message; an operations, administration and maintenance (OAM) message; and a signal on the physical layer. The system recovers from the failure without performing ONU discovery. |
| US09319754B2 |
Method and apparatus for coordinated splicing of multiple streams
A method and apparatus for coordinated splicing of multiple streams is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method and apparatus for controlling flow of a plurality of streams of a first data stream is disclosed. Further, a method and an apparatus for selecting splice opportunity points for a plurality of streams of the first data stream is disclosed. |
| US09319749B2 |
Method of displaying image by using remote controller and apparatus performing the same
An image display method is provided. The image display method includes displaying a plurality of images on a screen that includes a plurality of sub-screens, displaying a first indicator indicating a first point located at a boundary of the plurality of the sub-screens, displaying second indicators on a plurality of second points which are different from the first point, receiving an input selecting one of the second indicators, and moving a boundary at which the first point is located, so that the first point is located at a second point corresponding to the selected second indicator. |
| US09319744B2 |
Communications system and method, information processing apparatus and method, information management apparatus and method, recording medium and program
A communications system and method, an information processing apparatus and method, an information management apparatus and method, a recording medium and a program make it possible to efficiently and comfortably make use of contents, which are stored in one server, from a plurality of devices connected via a network. In a case in which the playing of content is stopped, bookmark information including a time stamp representing the stopped position of the content is stored in association with predetermined identification information. The bookmark information is available for various apparatuses transmitting the identification information. When playing the content from a position designated by the information from a predetermined apparatus, the time stamp included in the bookmark information is referred to and the playing of the content from the stopped position is started. The present disclosure is applicable to a personal computer, audio equipment, a PDA, a mobile phone and the like. |
| US09319742B2 |
Audio-visual terminal, viewing authentication system and control program
An audio-visual terminal and a viewing authentication system and control programs therefor are provided. The audio-visual terminal includes a reproducing part for reproducing the audio-visual program, a motion instructing part for instructing, a motion sensor for detecting a response motion of the viewer made by the viewer for transmission to a viewing authenticating principal, a sending part for sending information output from the audio-visual terminal to a viewing authentication system of the viewing authenticating principal, and a coding part for coding information about the response motion of the viewer obtained from a detection result detected by the motion sensor into a signal sendable by the sending part. |
| US09319737B2 |
Transport layer modification to enable transmission gaps
White space devices are operable to communicate information over white space and, more specifically, to quiet a transmitter to enable sensing signals in the white space. A method for inconspicuous quieting of a transmitter in a white space communication device modifies a transport stream for transmission by the transmitter of the white space device to provide a null window of time. The null window does not contain essential information. At least a portion of the modified transport stream is transmitted by the transmitter of the white space device. The transmitter is quieted during the null window, and white space sensing is performed during the null window. |
| US09319735B2 |
Electronic television program guide schedule system and method with data feed access
An electronic program schedule system with access to both stored television program schedule information and data feeds containing status information for live programs such as sporting events. The system includes a data processor for receiving program schedule information for a plurality of programs and data feeds containing status information for certain of the programs, and a video display generator for generating a display signal simultaneously comprising information from both the stored schedule information and the received data feed. The system is further provided with user control means such as a remote controller for generating user control commands and transmitting signals to the data processor in response thereto so as to control the content of the display signal. The display signal may be displayed on a display apparatus such as a television receiver. In addition, the program schedule system of the present invention utilizes category-specific user interfaces providing access to multiple services including television programs, received data feeds, home shopping services, and video games as well as the stored program schedule information. |
| US09319731B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for resuming paused media
Methods and apparatuses in a user equipment (300) and a control server (302) for enabling resumption of a paused media information stream sent in a live broadcast (3:1) of a TV program. When a user has paused (3:2) the broadcasted media in formation stream, the user equipment sends to the control server a request message (3:4) comprising an indicator of the time of pause. The control server then calculates (3:5) an offset value indicating a pause point in the media information stream where the pause occurred, based on the received indicator. The control server sends an answer message (3:6) comprising a file location address of a recorded version of the TV program and the calculated offset value, to the user equipment. The user equipment can then resume the media information stream (3:7, 3:8) from said pause point based on the received file location address and offset value. Thereby, any gap or jump in the resumed TV program due to inaccurate offset can be minimized or avoided. |
| US09319727B2 |
Viewer-authored content acquisition and management system for in-the-moment broadcast in conjunction with media programs
A method, apparatus, and system for providing viewer-derived content for broadcast presentation in conjunction with a broadcast of a media program by a provider of the media program is disclosed. The disclosed system and method (1) simplifies the process for viewers to provide viewer-authored media to broadcasters, while minimizing the data transmission requirements between portable viewer devices and the broadcaster, (2) allows advance approval for the broadcasters to use that viewer-generated content to generate and disseminate viewer-authored-content and (3) provides for management of viewer-generated content (4) integrates with social networks that can be used to at least preliminarily assess the popularity and suitability of the viewer-generated content for broadcast to other viewers. |
| US09319726B2 |
System and method for a passively-adaptive preferred channel list
Systems and/or methods are disclosed herein to identify a user interacting with a content presentation system, adaptively learn, in a passive manner, a user's pattern of accessing content over time, and globally store the user's identifying and use information. Specifically, systems and/or methods for creating a preferred channel list, including determining an identity of a user interacting with a content presentation system, collecting channel use information for each of a plurality of channels from the user's interaction with the content presentation system, storing the channel use information, determining a value for each of the plural channels as a function of the channel use information, and creating a preferred channel list for the plural channels as a function of the determined value. |
| US09319724B2 |
Favorite media program scenes systems and methods
An exemplary method includes a media program distribution service system 1) receiving data representative of a plurality of scene tags specifying one or more media program scenes tagged by a plurality of end users of a media program distribution service, 2) aggregating the plurality of scene tags, 3) determining, based on a favorite scenes determination heuristic and the aggregate scene tags, a set of one or more favorite scenes that are most popular among the plurality of end users of the media program distribution service, and 4) providing, based on the determined set of one or more favorite scenes, a favorite scene based feature of the media program distribution service. Corresponding systems and methods are also disclosed. |
| US09319722B2 |
Method of providing mobile IPTV service and system using the same
The method of providing a mobile IPTV service, performed in a terminal that receives streams of all channels belonging to a channel group of a currently viewed channel, includes, when a channel is selected, determining whether the selected channel and the currently viewed channel belong to the same channel group, and when the selected channel and the currently viewed channel are determined to belong to the same channel group, decoding, by the terminal, an IPTV channel stream of the selected channel within a currently received channel. Therefore, since the channel group is generated based on channel selection preference, and a multicast stream including a channel stream of the channel group is broadcast, it is possible to decrease average processing complexity and to guarantee rapid channel change when a user changes the channel to another channel in the same channel group. |
| US09319721B2 |
Method of configuring and transmitting an MMT transport packet
The present invention provides a MMT transport packet structure and a method and an apparatus configuring the structure. A method of configuring an MPEG Media Transport (MMT) transport packet for transmitting an MMT payload format, the method comprising: configuring the MMT transport packet so that the MMT transport packet includes at least one MMT payload format unit and a sequence number field for a packet stream, wherein the sequence number field maintains consistency with a sequence number field included in the MMT payload format. |
| US09319716B2 |
Performing motion vector prediction for video coding
In general, techniques are described for performing motion vector prediction for video coding. An apparatus comprising a motion compensation unit may implement the techniques. The motion compensation unit determines spatial candidate motion vectors (MVPs) associated with a current portion of a video frame and prunes the spatial candidate motion vectors to remove duplicates without removing a temporal candidate motion vector. The motion compensation unit selects one of the temporal candidate motion vector or one of the spatial candidate motion vectors remaining after pruning as a selected candidate motion vector based on a motion vector predictor (MVP) index signaled in a bitstream and performs motion compensation based on the selected candidate motion vector. |
| US09319715B2 |
Apparatus for generating prediction block
Provided is an intra prediction decoding apparatus that restores quantized residual coefficients, intra prediction information and size information on a prediction unit from a received bit stream, restores an intra prediction mode of the current prediction unit on the basis of the intra prediction information and the size information on the current prediction unit, generates unavailable reference pixels of the prediction unit, and adaptively filters the reference pixels on the basis of the intra prediction mode. Also, the apparatus generates a prediction block by adaptively filtering reference pixels corresponding to the intra prediction mode. Then, the apparatus generates a restoration image using the prediction block and a restored residual block. Accordingly, a prediction block close to an original image can be restored, and an image compression ratio can be improved. |
| US09319712B2 |
Filtering strength determination method, moving picture coding method and moving picture decoding method
A moving picture coding apparatus includes an inter-pixel filter having filters for filtering decoded image data so as to remove block distortion which is high frequency noise around block boundaries. The inter-pixel filter includes filters having different filtering strengths. The coding apparatus also includes a filter processing control unit for determining a filtering strength of the inter-pixel filter. |
| US09319707B2 |
Method and apparatus for decoding video according to individual parsing or decoding in data unit level, and method and apparatus for encoding video for individual parsing or decoding in data unit level
A video decoding method including: extracting, from a bitstream of an encoded video, at least one of information indicating independent parsing of a data unit and information indicating independent decoding of a data unit; extracting encoded video data and information about a coded depth and an encoding mode according to maximum coding units by parsing the bitstream based on the information indicating independent parsing of the data unit; and decoding at least one coding unit according to a coded depth of each maximum coding unit of the encoded video data, based on the information indicating independent decoding in the data unit and the information about the coded depth and the encoding mode according to maximum coding units. |
| US09319705B2 |
Method and apparatus for decoding video according to individual parsing or decoding in data unit level, and method and apparatus for encoding video for individual parsing or decoding in data unit level
A video decoding method including: extracting, from a bitstream of an encoded video, at least one of information indicating independent parsing of a data unit and information indicating independent decoding of a data unit; extracting encoded video data and information about a coded depth and an encoding mode according to maximum coding units by parsing the bitstream based on the information indicating independent parsing of the data unit; and decoding at least one coding unit according to a coded depth of each maximum coding unit of the encoded video data, based on the information indicating independent decoding in the data unit and the information about the coded depth and the encoding mode according to maximum coding units. |
| US09319704B2 |
Method and apparatus for decoding video according to individual parsing or decoding in data unit level, and method and apparatus for encoding video for individual parsing or decoding in data unit level
A video decoding method including: extracting, from a bitstream of an encoded video, at least one of information indicating independent parsing of a data unit and information indicating independent decoding of a data unit; extracting encoded video data and information about a coded depth and an encoding mode according to maximum coding units by parsing the bitstream based on the information indicating independent parsing of the data unit; and decoding at least one coding unit according to a coded depth of each maximum coding unit of the encoded video data, based on the information indicating independent decoding in the data unit and the information about the coded depth and the encoding mode according to maximum coding units. |
| US09319703B2 |
Hypothetical reference decoder parameter syntax structure
A video encoder signals, in an encoded video bitstream, a video parameter set (VPS) that includes a plurality of Hypothetical Reference Decoder (HRD) parameter syntax structures that each include HRD parameters. For each respective HRD parameter syntax structure in the plurality of HRD parameter syntax structures, the VPS further includes a syntax element indicating whether the HRD parameters of the respective HRD parameter syntax structure include a common set of HRD parameters in addition to a set of sub-layer-specific HRD parameter information specific to a particular sub-layer of the encoded video bitstream. The common set of HRD parameters is common to all sub-layers of the encoded video bitstream. A video decoder or other device decodes, from the encoded video bitstream, the VPS and performs an operation using the HRD parameters of at least one of the HRD parameter syntax structures. |
| US09319702B2 |
Dynamic slice resizing while encoding video
An apparatus having a plurality of processors is disclosed. The processors may be configured to (i) gather a plurality of statistics by encoding a current picture in a video signal, (ii) calculate a plurality of complexity values in response to both the statistics and a plurality of coefficients and (iii) partition a next picture in the video signal into a plurality of slices in response to the complexity values such that each of the slices has a similar coding complexity. The statistics generally characterize how the current picture was encoded. The coefficients may correspond to a plurality of coding modes. |
| US09319697B2 |
Coding and decoding images with sign data hiding
A method is provided for coding at least one image split up into partitions, a current partition to be coded containing data, at least one data item of which is allotted a sign. The coding method includes, for the current partition, the following steps: calculating the value of a function representative of the data of the current partition with the exclusion of the sign; comparing the calculated value with a predetermined value of the sign; as a function of the result of the comparison, modifying or not modifying at least one of the data items of the current partition, in the case of modification, coding the at least one modified data item. |
| US09319693B2 |
Method of coding and decoding images, coding and decoding device and computer programs corresponding thereto
A method for coding includes; segmenting an image into blocks; grouping blocks into a number of subsets; coding, using an entropy coding module, each subset, by associating digital information with symbols of each block of a subset, including, for the first block of the image, initializing state variables of the coding module; and generating a data sub-stream representative of at least one of the coded subsets of blocks. Where a current block is the first block to be coded of a subset, symbol occurrence probabilities for the first current block are determined based on those for a coded and decoded predetermined block of at least one other subset. Where the current block is the last coded block of the subset: writing, in the sub-stream representative of the subset, the entire the digital information associated with the symbols during coding of the blocks of the subset, and implementing the initializing sub-step. |
| US09319690B2 |
Method and system for image analysis
A method for processing an image includes: identifying a group of keypoints in the image; for each keypoint of the group; a) calculating a corresponding descriptor array including a plurality of array elements, each array element storing values taken by a corresponding color gradient histogram of a respective sub-region of the image in the neighborhood of the keypoint; b) generating at least one compressed descriptor array by compressing at least one portion of the descriptor array by vector quantization using a codebook including a plurality of codewords. |
| US09319681B2 |
Signaling of temporal motion vector predictor (MVP) enable flag
In one embodiment, a method determines an I slice in a current picture that is currently being encoded and a value for a flag to enable or disable using temporal motion vector predictors for the I slice. The value for the flag is encoded in an encoded bitstream associated with the I slice being encoded. The method then sends the encoded bitstream to a decoder where encoding the value for the flag for the I slice allows pictures that follow the I picture in a decoding order to use temporal motion vector predictors from a picture that precedes the I picture in the decoding order when temporal motion vector predictors are enabled. |
| US09319680B2 |
Image encoding apparatus and its control method
An image encoding apparatus for encoding image data including a plurality of frames, determines an encoding block size of an encoding subject frame of the image data based on the obtained image data, encodes the obtained image data on an encoding block unit basis in accordance with the determined encoding block size, controls a code amount of the size-decided encoding block based on encoding information regarding the current size-decided encoding block and the encoding block encoded before the current encoding block, operates predetermined encoding information of the encoding subject frame based on the encoding information, and restricts the encoding block size to be determined, in accordance with the operated predetermined encoding information. |
| US09319675B2 |
Arithmetic decoding method and arithmetic coding method
An arithmetic decoding method is a method in which a context variable specifying a probability of a possible value of each of elements included in a binary string corresponding to a value of a given variable is initialized and arithmetic decoding is performed, using the context variable. The method includes: determining, from among a plurality of initialization methods as a method of initializing the context variable, an initialization method corresponding to the given variable or a group which includes the given variable; and initializing the context variable using the determined initialization method. |
| US09319674B2 |
Three-dimensional image display device and driving method thereof
Disclosed are a 3D image display device and a driving method thereof. The 3D image display device includes a panel, a barrier panel, an image collector, and a timing controller. The panel includes a plurality of left-eye pixels and right-eye pixels. The barrier panel is disposed at a front surface of the panel, and includes a light transmitting area and a light blocking area. The image collector collects images of an object. The timing controller sets and stores a view map with the images in a view map correction mode and, in a 3D viewing mode, determines which of a plurality of viewing zones for a 3D image the object is located in and generates a barrier control signal for driving the barrier panel according to the determined result. |
| US09319672B2 |
Content-dependent video quality model for video streaming services
A method for estimating the perception quality of a digital video signal includes: (1a) extracting information of the video bit stream, which is captured prior to decoding; (1b) getting estimation(s) for one or more impairment factors IF using, for each of the estimations, an impact function adapted for the respective impairment factor; and (1c) estimating the perceived quality of the digital video signal using the estimation(s) obtained in step (1b). |
| US09319665B2 |
Method and apparatus for a self-focusing camera and eyeglass system
An involuntary action adjusted by the accommodation of the crystalline lens of the eye provides the data to the embedded algorithm to get the new image. Instead of the user performing a voluntary action to control the embedded algorithm, an involuntary action by the user is used to control the embedded algorithm allowing the user to automatically adjust the Plane of Depth (POD) for a Light Field Photograph (LFP) image or an eyeglass image. The adjustment of eyeglass image is used by an accommodation system to control the mechanical system of lenses in an eyeglass to automatically focus the glasses over a range of PODs. In addition, a voluntary far/near button can be used manually to adjust the POD for both the LFP image and the eyeglass adjustment. The variation of the crystalline thickness to adjust the focus of nearby and distant objects is called accommodation. |
| US09319663B2 |
Image display using matrix screen and periodic grating having a fixed period
An image display device has a matrix screen having a plurality of pixels arranged in columns and a periodic grating arranged in front of the matrix screen having a structure extending parallel to the columns. A lateral direction grating period corresponds to a whole number multiple of adjacent column spacing of the matrix screen. In a use of this image display device, at least two different viewing positions are detected and disjunctive excerpts of columns of the matrix screen are determined in accordance with the detected viewing positions such that a respective excerpt is associated with each of the detected viewing positions, this excerpt including all columns at least partly visible through the grating from this viewing position, wherein the matrix screen is controlled in dependence with image information of at least two different images such that exactly one of the images is displayed on each of the excerpts. |
| US09319662B2 |
Systems and methods for differentiating between dominant and weak eyes in 3D display technology
A method of displaying visual information to different viewer-eyes includes receiving eye strength data indicative of a deficiency of a weak viewer-eye with respect to a dominant viewer-eye. The method further includes causing a 3D-display system to display a first perspective of an image to the weak viewer-eye and causing the 3D-display system to display a second perspective of the image to the dominant viewer-eye. A difference between the first perspective and the second perspective is a variation of a display characteristic of one of the first and second perspectives where the variation is made in accordance with the indicated deficiency of the weak viewer-eye. |
| US09319655B2 |
Electronic device and corresponding method for displaying a stereoscopic image
An electronic device including a display module including a panel for generating stereoscopic vision, and configured to display a stereoscopic image using the panel; and a controller configured to display a first stereoscopic image, receive a request to shift the first stereoscopic image, and change a negative parallax of the first stereoscopic image to be a positive parallax based on the received request. |
| US09319654B2 |
Video data reproducing apparatus, video data generating apparatus and recording medium
To provide a video data reproducing apparatus or the like, which includes: a flag reader 101 for reading out a flag that designates a playback style during special playback, from video data; decoders 102 and 103 for decoding two sets of video data; a synthesizer 106 for combining the decoded videos to output the result; and a manager 109 for controlling the operations of decoders 102, 103 and synthesizer 106 in accordance with the flag value, and which manages the playback style in the special playback during picture-in-picture playing in accordance with the flag value, to thereby realize the playback style of the picture-in-picture video during the special playback that reflects the distributor's intention. |
| US09319648B2 |
Video projector system
Some embodiments provide for a modular video projector system having a light engine module and an optical engine module. The light engine module can provide narrow-band laser light to the optical engine module which modulates the laser light according to video signals received from a video processing engine. Some embodiments provide for an optical engine module having a sub-pixel generator configured to display video or images at a resolution of at least four times greater than a resolution of modulating elements within the optical engine module. Systems and methods for reducing speckle are presented in conjunction with the modular video projector system. |
| US09319646B2 |
Solid state imaging device having a shared pixel structure and electronic apparatus
A solid state imaging device includes a pixel array unit in which color filters of a plurality of colors are arrayed with four pixels of vertical 2 pixels×horizontal 2 pixels as a same color unit that receives light of the same color, shared pixel transistors that are commonly used by a plurality of pixels are intensively arranged in one predetermined pixel in a unit of sharing, and a color of the color filter of a pixel where the shared pixel transistors are intensively arranged is a predetermined color among the plurality of colors. The present technology can be applied, for example, to a solid state imaging device such as a back-surface irradiation type CMOS image sensor. |
| US09319645B2 |
Encoding method, decoding method, encoding device, decoding device, and recording medium for a plurality of samples
In encoding, index information indicating a group of coefficients that minimizes the sum of the error between the value of each sample and the value is obtained by multiplying the quantized value of each of a plurality of samples by a coefficient corresponding to the position of the sample. The coefficient is selected from a plurality of groups of predetermined coefficients corresponding to the positions of the samples. In decoding, a plurality of values corresponding to an input vector quantization index are obtained as decoded values corresponding to a plurality of sample positions. With the use of a group of predetermined coefficients corresponding to the plurality of sample positions and indicated by input index information, the values obtained by multiplying the decoded values and the coefficients, corresponding to the sample positions are output. |
| US09319638B1 |
On-axis guide system
An on-axis dichroic guide system provides a telescope with an automated active control and focusing system for imaging celestial bodies. The on-axis dichroic guide system mainly comprises a system body, a scope port, a guide port, an imaging port, and an dichroic beam splitter. The scope port is positioned adjacent to the system body, and the guide port is positioned adjacent to the system body opposite to the scope port. The imaging port is positioned adjacent to the system body on an axis that is non-parallel to the axis containing the scope port and the guide port. The dichroic beam splitter is positioned with the system body. In addition, the dichroic beam splitter is arranged to reflect the visible portion of the input light towards the imaging port and to direct the infrared portion the input light towards the guide port. |
| US09319636B2 |
Video imaging system with multiple camera white balance capability
A system for capturing image data including a control module having a control switch and a processor, the processor being adapted for white balance control and the control switch being adapted to initiate white balance control, at least one input module connected to the control module, the input module providing white balance calibration, and at least one camera coupled to the input module. One or more of the at least one input module are configured as active input modules, each active input module having an active camera generating an image signal. The control module detects the one or more active input modules and controls one of the one or more active input modules, selected based on user feedback, to calibrate white balance of the image signal of the active camera coupled to the selected input module and to transmit the calibrated image signal to the control module for display. |
| US09319632B2 |
Display apparatus and method for video calling thereof
A display apparatus and a method for video calling thereof are provided. The method includes: capturing an image; detecting a face of at least one user from the captured image; setting an interest area to include a preset body part of the at least one user whose face has been detected; editing the interest area set in the captured image to generate a video calling image; and transmitting the video calling image to an external apparatus. |
| US09319630B2 |
Method and device for video processing
A method and a device are provided for processing a video transmitted over a communication network. The video processing may include timing playback of an image frame of the video so as to maintain a continuous playback of the video regardless of network delays and other adverse factors. An ith image frame of the video may be fetched for processing from a buffer queue. A sampling interval of the ith image frame may be calculated. Further, a waiting time and a regulated waiting time of the ith image frame may be calculated. A playing interval of the ith image frame may be determined based on the regulated waiting time. If the time elapsed since start of playback of an (i−1)th image frame of the video is not shorter than the playing interval of the ith image frame, the ith image frame may be played at the current time point. |
| US09319624B2 |
Projection display device
A projector 100 comprising a light source (130), a reflective light bulb (DMD 180), a projection optical system, an illumination optical system (120) that guides light emitted from the light source to the reflective light bulb, a stationary aperture (166), and a movable aperture (167). |
| US09319623B2 |
Imformation processing apparatus and information processing system
An information processing apparatus stores sets of image data associated with sets of user identification information. When receiving a set of the user identification information and a set of apparatus identification information identifying one of image display apparatuses, the information processing apparatus stores information of a stored set of image data associated with the received set of user information in a manner of associating the stored set of image data with the received set of apparatus identification information, and, in response to receiving a request from the image display apparatus identified by the set of apparatus identification information, transmits the set of image data associated with the set of apparatus identification information to the image display apparatus. |
| US09319616B2 |
Control method of an audio/video system
An audio/video (A/V) display system comprising a display and a peripheral device connected to the display. The display is capable of displaying a user interface. The peripheral device transmits raw data of the peripheral device to the display. The display enables an option corresponding to the peripheral device in the user interface after receiving the raw data of the peripheral device. Both the display and the peripheral device are controlled by a control device. |
| US09319615B2 |
Television system, television set and remote controller
In response to an operation such as power-on or power-off, channel change and sound volume change, a television set combined with a personal computer automatically makes e-mail with information in a predetermined format indicative of the operation attached. The e-mail is automatically sent to another television set to inform the other television set of operation of the own television set. On the other hand, the e-mail can be sent to a rating company for audience share survey. The television set automatically reads the received e-mail and attachment to change the indication of display. The television set has storage of the received information for analysis of an abnormality. Abnormality can be also sensed through abnormal act on the remote controller apt to be taken by a person in panic or off the truck. The television set refuses information from unknown address for blocking an attack of a stranger. |
| US09319611B2 |
Image sensor with flexible pixel summing
An image sensor can include pixels that are grouped into subsets of pixels, with each subset including three or more pixels. A method for asymmetrical high dynamic range imaging can include capturing an image of a subject scene using a single integration time for all of the pixels. In a subset of pixels, charge in N pixels is read out and summed together. N represents a number that is between two and one less than a total number of pixels in the subset. Un-summed charge is read out from one pixel in the subset. The un-summed charge and the summed charge are combined when producing a high dynamic range image. |
| US09319606B2 |
Solid-state image sensing device and camera system with divided pixels
A solid-state image sensing device includes: a pixel part in which pixels are arranged in a matrix; and a pixel signal readout part including an AD conversion part that analog-digital (AD)-converts a pixel signal read out from the pixel part. Each of the adjacent pixels or one of the pixels of the pixel part is formed as divided pixels divided into regions with different photosensitivity or amounts of accumulated charge, photosensitivity or exposure time conditions are set for the divided pixels and the photosensitivity or exposure time conditions of the divided pixels provided to be opposed in diagonal directions are set to the same conditions, the pixel signal readout part reads out divided pixel signals of the respective divided pixels of the pixel, and the AD conversion part obtains a pixel signal of one pixel by AD-converting the respective read out divided pixel signals and adding the signals. |
| US09319604B2 |
Image processing apparatus and method
An image processing apparatus inputs captured image data that has been read from an image capturing unit in accordance with a reading mode, and processes the input captured image data so as to enable identification of the reading mode used in reading the captured image data from the image capturing unit. |
| US09319603B2 |
Shared terminal of an image sensor system for transferring image data and control signals
An image sensor system includes an image sensor and a host controller. The image sensor includes a power input terminal, a data terminal, a clock input terminal, and a ground terminal. The host controller is coupled to the power input terminal to provide power to the image sensor, the data terminal to receive analog image data from the image sensor, the clock input terminal to provide a clock signal to the image sensor, and the ground terminal. The ground terminal serves as a common reference between the image sensor and one or more circuits of the host controller. The system also includes logic that is configured to transfer the analog image data from the image sensor to the host controller through the data terminal of the image sensor and to transfer one or more digital control signals between the image sensor and the host controller through the data terminal. |
| US09319602B2 |
Method and apparatus for processing image
A method of processing an image includes: offsetting aliasing by analyzing frequency characteristics of at least one color channel and a NIR channel, of a MSFA pattern image; generating a high resolution base image; and offsetting an artifact from the high resolution base image by weighting the high resolution base image and a blur image, based on a pixel difference value between the blur image and the high resolution base image. |
| US09319599B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and non-transitory storage medium storing an image processing program
An image processing apparatus includes a gain correcting unit and a gain estimating unit. The gain correcting unit corrects a gain of a pixel output of a phase-difference detecting pixel. The gain estimating unit estimates the gain with which to correct the pixel output of the phase-difference detecting pixel. The gain estimating unit includes a provisional true-value calculating unit configured to calculate a pixel output of a provisional true-value calculating pixel, in accordance with a correlation of the pixel outputs between a base block including the phase-difference detecting pixel and a reference block set in a search area for which a block similar to the base block is searched. |
| US09319598B2 |
Personal identification system
A personal identification system, which uses a vein pattern of a finger, optimizes the amount of light of a light source based on a captured finger image and emphasizes the vein pattern during image processing for identification. |
| US09319596B2 |
Light-emitting device and camera
A small light-emitting device is provided. A light-emitting device which is less likely to produce a shadow is provided. A structure including a switching circuit for supplying a pulsed constant current and a light-emitting panel supplied with the pulsed constant current has been conceived. |
| US09319594B2 |
Imaging device and imaging method
An imaging device of the present invention comprises an additive combination for subjecting image data to additive combination, a gain application section for applying minus gain image data that has been subjected to additive combination by the additive combination section, an additive combination section for, at the time of imaging in the imaging section, respectively subjecting a plurality of image data, that have been acquired by divided exposure at the divided exposure time, to additive combination to create combined image data, and a gain application section for applying the minus gain to the combined image data to create taken image data. |
| US09319592B2 |
Image-capturing device and timing control circuit for outputting first vertical synchronization signal and second vertical synchronization signal
An image-capturing device includes image-capturing section, an image-data-generation section, and an image capture control section. The image-capturing section is for capturing an image of a subject and starting generating of image-capture data corresponding to a single frame in synchronization with a vertical synchronization signal, The image-data-generation section is for carrying out processing for generating image data showing an image of the subject, on the basis of the image-capture data. The image capture control section is for varying, at a minimum, either a number of pulses of subsignals generated a plurality of times within a period of one cycle of the vertical synchronization signal, or the cycle for generating the vertical synchronization signal. |
| US09319589B2 |
Device and method for capturing images and selecting a desired image by tilting the device
An image capturing apparatus that includes one or more image sensors configured to capture a plurality of images and store the captured images in a memory. The apparatus also includes a circuitry that detects an input trigger and continues to capture new images in response to the trigger. The numbers of new images captured are equal in magnitude to half the magnitude of the capacity of the memory. The first new image captured after detecting the trigger is tagged as a reference image. In response to the number of new images captured, the sensors are deactivated and the reference image is displayed immediately on a display panel. On detecting an input operation, the apparatus displays a target image from the plurality of images captured in a quick and efficient manner. |
| US09319580B2 |
Method and apparatus for shooting and storing multi-focused image in electronic device
A method for shooting a multi-focused image in an electronic device includes selecting a plurality of focus targets in a preview mode, calculating camera lens moving distances of the focus targets, and shooting an image of each focus target from a single fixed angle by reference to the camera lens moving distances of the focus targets. Thus, a user does not have to move the focus several times from the fixed angle. |
| US09319578B2 |
Resolution and focus enhancement
An exemplary system includes at least one detector configured to provide an output based on a detected input. A plurality of input control elements control the input detected by the detector. A processor is configured to determine at least one point spread function based on a condition of the detector, a condition of the input control elements and a selected distance associated with the output. The controller is configured to generate data based on the output and the at least one point spread function, the generated data having at least one aspect |
| US09319572B2 |
Image pickup device
An image pickup device includes a body case, a grip belt, and a Wi-Fi module stored in the body case. A communication module has a substrate, a processing circuit, and an antenna. The grip belt extends from a first attaching portion provided on a right side surface of the body case to a second attaching portion provided on a side opposite to an opening portion side of a lens barrel of the body case. The communication module is arranged closer to the opening portion of the lens barrel than a reference surface substantially orthogonal to an optical axis and passing through the first attaching portion or in the vicinity of the reference surface. |
| US09319570B2 |
Adjustable shoulder pad
An apparatus for a video camera facilitates the use of the camera by an operator. A shoulder mount may comprise one or more pads that may be movably attached to a mounting or reinforcing plate and coupled to a mechanism that facilitates the rotation, translation and/or tilting of the pads. One or more releases may be positioned to permit an operator to actuate the mechanisms and to unlock and reposition the pads with respect to the camera body. A tripod configuration may be defined in which all pads are fully confined within the volume of a recess of the camera body, thereby permitting attachment of a tripod or other mechanical mount. |
| US09319568B2 |
Endoscope system and external control device for endoscope
In the processor device connected to the endoscope, the imaging signal transmitted in serial from an imaging chip of the endoscope is converted by an S/P converter to parallel data, and is then decoded by an 8B10B decoder. When data corruption occurs due to noise or the like during transmission of the imaging signal and normal pixel data cannot be obtained due to decode error at an 8B10B decoder, that pixel data is interpolated with pixel data of a peripheral part in an inner memory of an image processing circuit. |
| US09319566B2 |
Display apparatus for synchronizing caption data and control method thereof
A display apparatus and a method of controlling the display apparatus are disclosed. The display apparatus includes: a signal receiver configured to receive a signal containing video data of a series of frames and corresponding sound data; a first data extractor configured to extract caption data from the signal; a second data extractor configured to extract the video data and the sound data from the signal; a buffering section configured to buffer the extracted video data; a sound-text converter configured to convert the extracted sound data into a text through sound recognition; a synchronizer configured to compare the converted text with the extracted caption data, and synchronize the caption data with frames corresponding to respective caption data among frames of the buffered video data; and a display configured to display the frames synchronized with the caption data. |
| US09319565B1 |
Interleaved encoding of compressed attribute and color planes
An example embodiment may involve obtaining an a×b pixel macro-cell from an image with one or more color planes, and an a×b attribute macro-cell. The a×b pixel macro-cell may contain 4 non-overlapping m×n pixel cells, and the a×b attribute macro-cell may contain 4 non-overlapping m×n attribute cells. The pixels in the a×b pixel macro-cell may be associated with respective color values. The example embodiment may also involve determining 4 attribute output values associated respectively with the 4 non-overlapping m×n attribute cells. The example embodiment may further involve determining 1 to 4 color-plane output values for the non-overlapping m×n pixel cells, and writing an interleaved representation of the 4 attribute output values and the determined color-plane output values. |
| US09319563B1 |
Image processing device and method for processing image data
An image processing device includes a scanning unit configured convert an image of an object into image data, a storage unit storing the image data, and a controller configured to transmit an electronic message to a client computer, such that a screen of the electronic message displayed on the client computer includes a user interface element associated with deleting the image data from the storage unit. |
| US09319561B2 |
Image reading apparatus, control method thereof, and recording medium
A scanner unit includes, a CIS module having a light source unit, and a CIS which receives reflected light which is emitted in the light source unit; a carriage motor which is provided in the vicinity of the CIS module, and operates along with heat when reading out using the CIS module; a determination unit which determines whether or not dark period measurement data read out using the CIS module in a dark period is in a predetermined range of a reference dark period which is set corresponding to a temperature of the carriage motor; and a control unit which controls the carriage motor so as to limits an operation of the carriage motor in read processing, when the dark period measurement data is not in the range of the reference dark period. |
| US09319558B2 |
Data processing system
A data processing apparatus is constructed by an input device for inputting an instruction for causing a job processor to perform a job, an analyzing unit for analyzing the instruction inputted by the input device, a discriminating unit for discriminating a processing ability of the job processor which performs the job based on the instruction inputted by the input device, and a controller for controlling a supply of the instruction inputted by the input device to the job processor in accordance with a result of the analysis by the analyzing unit and a result of the discrimination by the discriminating unit. The job processor performs a job to transmit input data to another apparatus, and the input device inputs an instruction including a designation of destinations to transmit data by the job processor. |
| US09319553B2 |
Image-forming apparatus
An image-forming apparatus includes a light-irradiation unit configured to move a spot of laser light on a surface of a photosensitive member at a non-constant scanning velocity in a main scanning direction to form a latent image on the photosensitive member, an image data correcting unit configured to correct a length in the main scanning direction of image data by inserting one or more image data pieces into the image data, the number of the image data pieces increasing as the scanning velocity increases, and/or extracting one or more image data pieces from the image data, the number of the image data pieces increasing as the scanning velocity decreases, and a brightness correcting unit configured to correct a brightness of the laser light so that an emission brightness increases as the scanning velocity increases and/or the emission brightness decreases as the scanning velocity decreases. |
| US09319552B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method of setting updating information both of which being for executing firmware updating with external equipment connected
To provide a technique that makes it possible, for a user without conscious of the detailed firmware program contents and the current state of a device, to execute an update process in a case of using file in which plural firmware programs are packaged. Upon connection of an external auxiliary storage device that stores the package file, a detection of a firmware program to be updated turns a staring mode into an update mode for updating a firmware program. If a failure in an internal auxiliary storage device is detected after re-starting, a starting is made by the update mode using a firmware program in the package file. In a case where a firmware program that is to be installed into the flash memory is updatable, only the firmware program that is to be installed into the flash memory is installed and updated. |
| US09319551B2 |
Image forming apparatus in which initialization operation is performed based on stored degeneracy information
An image forming apparatus, and a method of controlling it. The apparatus performs, in a case where at least one function out of a plurality of functions of the apparatus ceases to be usable, degeneracy control for operating to provide functions other than the at least one function, and stores information indicating a degeneracy control state is entered. The apparatus controls so as to activate without initialization operation of an image forming mechanism in a case where it is determined that the activation is due to the return from a power saving mode and the information is stored and so as to activate with the initialization operation when the activation is due to a power of the apparatus being turned on. |
| US09319546B2 |
Reading apparatus
A reading apparatus including a reading device, a sheet tray, a conveyer, a receiving device, and a control device configured to execute, when the receiving device receives a read instruction, a conveying process of causing the conveyer to start conveyance of a sheet, execute a reading process of causing the reading device to read an image of the sheet passing a reading position of the reading device, execute a stop determining process of determining whether a stop condition of the conveyer is satisfied, and execute, in response to determining that the stop condition is satisfied, a stopping process of causing a leading edge of a next sheet to be stopped in a specific position which is any position between the sheet tray and the reading position. |
| US09319543B2 |
Data processing apparatus
A data processing apparatus includes a display portion, a control portion including a display control portion for causing the display portion to display a preview image of output target data, a touch sensor for receiving, on the display portion, a user operation for performing output setting for the output target data concerning the preview image, an output portion for outputting the output target data based on the output setting, and a control portion for, in a state where the display control portion arranges objects in page unit sequentially to be displayed as the preview image, when the touch sensor receives a predetermined pinch operation for the objects, performing page setting concerning the objects to be operated. |
| US09319542B2 |
Image forming apparatus, image forming processing setting method, and recording medium having recorded thereon computer program for the image forming processing setting method
An image forming apparatus includes: an image acquiring section configured to acquire an image formation target page image; a display control section configured to perform processing for displaying the page image in a preview display area; an operation-input acquiring section configured to acquire a first operation input for designating a first position in a designatable area and a second operation input for designating a second position in the preview display area; a determining section configured to determine which allocation setting area corresponding to which number of page images is designated as an area where processing for setting a number of page images allocated to one sheet is executed; and a setting section configured to apply setting of a number of page images allocated to one sheet to the page image for which the first operation input is performed. |
| US09319541B2 |
Facsimile apparatus capable of data forwarding and data forwarding method
A facsimile apparatus includes a data receiver, a data transmitter, and a controller. The controller receives facsimile data from another facsimile apparatus through the data receiver, the facsimile data including related information. The controller outputs a screen on which at least one forwarding destination related to the related information of the received facsimile data is displayed in preference to at least one forwarding destination which does not relate to the related information of the received facsimile data. The controller forwards the received facsimile data through the data transmitter to at least one of the at least one forwarding destination designated on the screen. |
| US09319540B2 |
Image forming apparatus, control method therefor and storage medium
An image forming apparatus that enables to suppress the cost rise caused by increasing the number of sensors for original size detection and suppress the degradation of user operability. Paper sizes of papers are registered on a plurality of paper supplying units in advance. One of the registered paper sizes is determined as the original size if the original size cannot be detected by a detecting unit. An image of the original is formed on a paper, which corresponds to the original size determined by the determining unit and is fed from the paper supplying unit. |
| US09319537B2 |
Load balancing reverse power supply
A power supply unit includes a plurality of the interface ports and a plurality of power delivery units, each coupled to one of the interface ports and configured to extract power from data signals communicated over the interface ports by remote devices. A sharing circuit is coupled to each of the power delivery units for generating a power supply voltage from the power extracted from the data signals. A controller is configured to generate a communication line power loss estimate for each of the interface ports and configure the power delivery units to balance amounts of power supplied by each of the remote devices based on the communication line power loss estimates. |
| US09319534B1 |
System, method, and computer program for automatically generating personalized offers for a consumer in a telecommunication consumer network
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for automatically generating personalized offers for a consumer in a telecommunication consumer network. In use, a telecommunication consumer network is automatically and continuously monitored to automatically maintain a record of patterns of consumer usage of mobile devices on the telecommunication consumer network. Additionally, the record of patterns of consumer usage of mobile devices on the consumer network is utilized to automatically generate at least one personalized offer to at least one consumer on the telecommunication consumer network, the personalized offer being associated with consumer services that are suitable for a pattern of usage of at least one mobile device associated with the at least one consumer on the telecommunication consumer network. |
| US09319532B2 |
Acoustic echo cancellation for audio system with bring your own devices (BYOD)
A controller for the conference session receives at least one audio signal to generate a speaker signal. The controller correlates the speaker signal with network timing information and generates speaker timing information. The controller transmits the correlated speaker signal and timing information to a mobile device participating in the conference session. The mobile device generates an echo cancelled microphone signal from a microphone of the mobile device, and transmits the echo cancelled signal back to the controller. The controller also receives array microphone signals associated with an array of microphones at known positions in the room. The controller removes acoustic echo from the array microphone signals, and estimates a relative location of the mobile device. The controller dynamically selects as audio output corresponding to the mobile device location either (a) the array microphone signal, or (b) the echo cancelled microphone signal from the mobile device. |
| US09319531B1 |
Distributed call routing in a VoIP system
A distributed call routing system and method are used to provide higher quality VoIP connections with flexible codec choices and simplified NAT and firewall traversal. An analog telephone adapter (ATA) communicates a call destination to a network information server (NIS), which provides multiple routes. The ATA uses this information and local and/or non-NIS information to initiate the call using the preferred routing. |
| US09319526B2 |
System and method for granting delayed priority access to a resource
A user service center facilitates communication between a user and an agent at the user service center. At peak use times, the user service center is connected to a surplus of users with respect to its number of agents, and the user service center has the users wait to communicate with an agent. In one embodiment, the system and method described herein give the user the option to reconnect with the user service center at a later, off-peak, time. In exchange, the user is granted an identifier indicating priority access to an agent at the off-peak time. In this way, the user does not have to wait to communicate with an agent during the subsequent communication during the off-peak time. |
| US09319525B1 |
Best time to call parties having multiple contacts
Technologies are disclosed for determining a best time to contact a party over a plurality of contact periods of time to achieve at least one of a desired outcome and a desired result. In various embodiments, the party has multiple contact types that can be utilized to contact the party. Accordingly, an optimal contact type for the party for each contact period is selected that identifies the contact type with a probability having the highest likelihood of achieving at least one of the desired outcome and the desired result by utilizing the contact type to contact the party during the contact period. A best time to contact the party is then identified as one of the contact periods based on the optimal contact types selected for the party for each contact period and associated probabilities. |
| US09319523B2 |
Methods and apparatus for providing expanded telecommunications service
The present invention provides flexible call processing. For example, a call processor system can receive an inbound call intended for a called party and place an outbound call to the called party. The call processing system can provide the called party with a call transfer option. |
| US09319521B1 |
Systems and methods for prioritizing multiple callers
A computing device includes a memory; and a processing circuit coupled to the memory and configured to receive call data regarding a plurality of telephone calls placed to the computing device, each of the plurality of telephone calls being placed by a caller; prioritize each caller based on the call data and prioritization data stored in the memory, the prioritization data providing an indication of a relationship between each caller and a receiver associated with the computing device and including at least one of electronic contact data, electronic calendar data, and social media data; determine a future time for each caller to speak with the receiver based on the prioritization of each caller; and transmit a message to each caller providing an indication of the future time. |
| US09319509B2 |
System for control and operation of electronic devices
The present invention relates to an apparatus and method to permit control and operation of an electronic device while participating in another activity, including a variety of sports and recreational activities. A fabric helmet liner, one or more speakers, a microphone, a breakaway connector, and a slap switch are provided and configured to enhance the ability of users to answer or end telephone calls or start, stop, or resume audio output t the speakers while a user is in motion or wearing gloves that would render the use of conventional call answer buttons difficult or impossible. |
| US09319508B2 |
Method and device for adding menu item to android menu
A method and device for adding a menu item to an Android menu are provided. The method includes: receiving a request for opening a local menu, where the request carries a menu ID, and creating a local menu corresponding to the menu ID; obtaining according to the menu ID, in a stored correspondence between a menu item of a third-party application and the menu ID, a menu item of a corresponding third-party application; and adding the menu item of the third-party application to the local menu, and displaying the local menu to which the menu item of the third-party application is added. The device includes a first creating module, an obtaining module, and an adding module. The present invention is capable of adding a menu item of a third-party application to a local menu of a mobile phone without modifying an Android platform code. |
| US09319504B2 |
System and method for answering a communication notification
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and computer readable-media for answering a communication notification. The method for answering a communication notification comprises receiving a notification of communication from a user, converting information related to the notification to speech, outputting the information as speech to the user, and receiving from the user an instruction to accept or ignore the incoming communication associated with the notification. In one embodiment, information related to the notification comprises one or more of a telephone number, an area code, a geographic origin of the request, caller id, a voice message, address book information, a text message, an email, a subject line, an importance level, a photograph, a video clip, metadata, an IP address, or a domain name. Another embodiment involves notification assigned an importance level and repeat attempts at notification if it is of high importance. |
| US09319502B2 |
Mobile electronic device, image projecting method and projection system
According to an aspect, a mobile electronic device includes an image projecting unit, a distance detecting unit, and a processing unit. The image projecting unit projects an image to a projection plane. The distance detecting unit detects a distance from the image projecting unit to the projection plane. The processing unit causes the image projecting unit to project a projection image including at least part of a reference image in such a manner that a ratio of the projection image to a whole of the reference image is changed based on the change in the distance detected by the distance detecting unit. |
| US09319497B2 |
Portable terminal
A portable terminal including a first housing including a first display; a second housing including a second display; and a hinge portion that couples the first housing and the second housing so as to be openable and closable with respective opposing end portions of the first housing and the second housing adjacent to each other and with respective surfaces of the first housing and the second housing positioned in the same plane as each other in an open state. The hinge portion is disposed so as to not be visible from a front side of the first display and the second display when the first housing and the second housing are in the open state. |
| US09319496B2 |
Mobile phone case
The present invention discloses a mobile phone case. The mobile phone case comprises a base plate for fixing a mobile phone, a top cover for protecting the display surface of the mobile phone and a first connection member for connecting the base plate and the top cover, wherein, the mobile phone case further comprises at least one light-shielding film, arranged between the base plate and the top cover and with one side connected with the first connection member, and the light-shielding film is used for shielding a part of rays of light generated by the display surface so as to limit a visual angle of the display surface. The mobile phone case provided by the present invention can not only decorate and protect the mobile phone, but also effectively prevent displayed information of the display surface of the mobile phone from leaking. |
| US09319490B2 |
Virtual memory protocol segmentation offloading
Methods and systems for a more efficient transmission of network traffic are provided. According to one embodiment, payload data originated by a user process running on a host processor of the computer system is fetched by an interface of the computer system by performing direct virtual memory addressing of a user memory space of a system memory of the computer system on behalf of a network processor of the computer system. The direct virtual memory addressing maps a physical address of the payload data to a virtual address. The payload data is segmented by the network processor across one or more packets. |
| US09319487B2 |
Server device, client device, information processing system, information processing method, and program
An information processing method of an information processing system including a client device functioning as a client and a server device functioning as a server which are capable of communication via a network, includes the steps of: at the server device, managing format identification information provided so as to be unique for each content data within the range of each data format, corresponding to the contents of each content; at the client device, causing execution of communication via network, for specifying a content, as to the server device; at the server device, transmitting, to the client device, format identification information correlated with a specified content in response to specification of a content via network from the client device; and at the client device, managing the received and obtained format identification information as corresponding to the specified content. |
| US09319486B2 |
Predicting interest levels associated with publication and content item combinations
A method of predicting interest levels associated with publication and content item combinations is described. Additionally, a server computing device for predicting interest levels associated with publication and content item combinations is described. Further, a computer-readable storage device having processor-executable instructions embodied thereon is described. The processor-executable instructions are for predicting interest levels associated with publication and content item combinations. |
| US09319484B2 |
Relay communication system and relay servers
A virtual network is dynamically created when a relay communication system is constructed including a plurality of relay servers that communicate with each other. In the relay communication system, VLAN client terminals which define a VLAN group share VLAN group information. In addition, a VLAN session is established between the VLAN devices as activatable VLAN client terminals among the VLAN client terminals based on the VLAN group information, and the VLAN devices are allowed to share virtual address information created when the VLAN group is activated. Furthermore, if the VLAN group has already been activated when instructed to activate the VLAN group, a join-in-progress signal to the VLAN group is transmitted to a join-in-progress VLAN client terminal as a transmission source of the activation instruction, and a VLAN session is established that is related to the join-in-progress VLAN client terminal and has not been established yet. |
| US09319482B2 |
Method and system for providing media content over a computer network
A method and system to identify an ability of a computer system to playback media content locally. The system progresses through media content playback applications by querying the computer system over a computer network. The system progresses through the applications to assess an ability of the computer system to playback the media content locally. Finally, the system provides the computer system with a version of the media content appropriate for the ability of the computer system to playback the media content locally. The version of the media content is a media file. |
| US09319479B2 |
Suggesting a discussion group based on indexing of the posts within that discussion group
A system and corresponding methods for recommending a discussion group as an appropriate place to post a message are provided. In one embodiment, the system searches a plurality of existing posts to identify the posts that are similar to a subject of a user's message. The system identifies the discussion groups that contain the identified posts and selects one of the identified discussion groups to recommend as an appropriate discussion group to post the user's message. |
| US09319477B2 |
Methods and systems for communicating between a vehicle and a remote application server
Methods and apparatus for use in communicating between a vehicle and a remote application server. An application message is received from a vehicle. A computer system determines whether an uplink connection can be established between the computer system and a remote application server that provides a remote software application associated with the application message. The application message is redirected to a local software application executed by the computer system when an uplink connection cannot be established. Data may be subsequently synchronized between the local software application and the remote software application. |
| US09319475B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for management of push content when changing computing devices
A method, system and apparatus for management of push content when changing computing devices is provided. In an example embodiment, a computing device is configured to maintain an absolute identifier of the device that remains unchangeable, and a relative identifier that can be changed. The processor of the device is configured to ascertain if the relative identifier has been changed, and accordingly notify any network infrastructure that is configure to send push content to the device to cease delivery of such push content. |
| US09319470B2 |
Location-based social networking system
A system for receiving and distributing social media content associates content with a particular geographic location. Users who view the social media content can have more confidence in its authenticity because the system only allows content to be uploaded when in proximity to the associated geographic location. Channels categorize the content into different subject-matter. A user can watch a channel and the geo-specific content updates as a user changes location. |
| US09319468B2 |
Information processing apparatus and information processing method
An information processing method and an information processing apparatus are disclosed. The information processing method is applied to a first electronic device, and includes establishing a communication link between the first electronic device and a second electronic device; determining whether a predetermined display condition is satisfied; when the predetermined display condition is satisfied, displaying a first communication interface to be used for communicating with the second electronic device, wherein the first communication interface can include a first region and a second region that are not totally identical, the first region includes a first sub-region for displaying first information acquired by the first electronic device and/or a second sub-region for displaying second information acquired by the second electronic device, in case of presence of shared information, the second region is provided to display the shared information. |
| US09319463B2 |
Reproducing data from obfuscated data retrieved from a dispersed storage network
A method begins by a processing module processing a data retrieval request that identifies data, wherein the data is stored as a plurality of sets of encoded data slices, wherein one or more encoded data slices of the plurality of sets of encoded data slices has been replaced with one or more encoded secret slices of secret data. The method continues with the processing module receiving at least a threshold number of the plurality of sets of encoded data slices and determining whether a secret data extraction process is initiated. The method continues with the processing module obtaining an inter-dispersing function to extract the one or more encoded secret slices to produce extracted encoded secret slices and decoding the extracted encoded secret slices in accordance with secret dispersed storage error encoding parameters to reproduce the secret data when the secret data extraction process is initiated. |
| US09319461B2 |
Individualized data communication on the basis of a descriptive file
For individualized data communication of a data entity (200) to at least a first recipient and a second recipient, a descriptive file (100) is provided, which is supplemented by at least one identifier of a placeholder type. The descriptive file (100) also includes at least one identifier of a direct type, which is associated with a corresponding data piece (210) of the data entity (200). The identifier of the placeholder type is in turn associated with descriptive data (120) of an individualized data piece (220). By providing different types of the descriptive data (120) for different recipients, the identifier of the placeholder type may be used as a reference to different types of personalized content in the individualized data piece (220). This individualization may be obtained without modifying an identifier section (110) of the descriptive file (100). |
| US09319456B2 |
“Go home” feature for roaming applications
Techniques related to a “go home” feature for a roaming application are generally described where a roaming application can automatically return from a target device to a home device. The home device can manage an execution environment for the roaming application on behalf of an owner of the roaming application. The roaming application may roam from the home device to a target device, execute on the target device, and automatically return from the target device to the home device, in response to a return event. The roaming application implementing the “go home” feature may be indifferent to specific User Interface (UI) features of target devices, allowing roaming applications to access a wider diversity of potential target devices, and also allowing simplification/omission of target device UI. |
| US09319454B2 |
Communication apparatus system, communication apparatus, relay apparatus, and control method of relay
A communication apparatus system includes a relay apparatus and a communication apparatus which are connected to a network, to which a service providing apparatus for an electronic-file storing service is connected. The communication apparatus includes: an address-get-request transmitting unit that transmits a request for getting an upload destination address to the relay apparatus; a receiving unit that receives the upload destination address and a template for an upload message from the relay apparatus; an upload-message generating unit that generates the upload message including the electronic file and the upload destination address according to the received template; and an upload-message transmitting unit that transmits the generated upload message to the service providing apparatus to upload the electronic file in the electronic-file storing service. The relay apparatus includes: an upload-destination-address-get-program storage unit; an upload-destination-address getting unit; a time-information adding unit; and an upload-destination-address transmitting unit. |
| US09319451B2 |
Systems and methods for selecting an accounting technique for interactions with electronic content
A method for selecting an accounting technique for recording interactions with electronic content includes receiving a request for a content item from a user device, selecting a content item in response to the request, and configuring the content item to cause the user device to store a ping identifier in a local memory of the user device. The method further includes distributing the content item to the user device. The distributed content item includes a hyperlink having a ping attribute which causes the user device to send a ping request to one or more servers. The method further includes receiving the ping identifier from the user device, determining whether the ping request was received at the one or more servers, and selecting a ping-based accounting technique or a redirect-based accounting technique based on a result of the determination. |
| US09319448B2 |
Trick modes for network streaming of coded multimedia data
In one example, a device for retrieving multimedia data, the device comprising one or more processors configured to analyze information of a manifest file for multimedia content, wherein the information of the manifest file indicates that at least one representation of the multimedia content includes a temporal sub-sequence, determine one or more locations of data for the temporal sub-sequence, and submit one or more requests for the data for the temporal sub-sequence. |
| US09319447B2 |
Method for synchronizing a rich media action with an audiovisual change, corresponding device and computer software, method for generating a rich media presentation and corresponding computer software
The invention relates to a method for synchronizing an action in a piece of Rich Media® content with a change in a piece of audiovisual content, said Rich Media® and audiovisual content being part of a Rich Media® presentation. According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps: obtaining a piece of information representative of said change in said piece of audiovisual content, or change information; synchronizing an action in said piece of Rich Media® content with said change, said synchronization step including the following substeps: converting said change information into a Rich Media® event; detecting said event by at least one Rich Media® object of said presentation; triggering said action in said presentation on the basis of said detected event. |
| US09319445B2 |
Systems and methods for pre-fetching media content
An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device includes a display, one or more processors, memory, and one or more programs, wherein the one or more programs are stored in the memory and configured to be executed by the one or more processors. The one or more programs include instructions for detecting a display change associated with media content item represented on a display, transmitting a request (e.g., to a server) for at least a portion of the media content item, receiving the requested portion of the media content item, storing the received portion of the media content item in a local cache, receiving a user input indicative of the selection of the media content item, and presenting the received portion of the media content item in response to receiving the user input indicative of the selection of the media content item. |
| US09319443B2 |
Content segment detection and replacement
Methods and systems for providing content are disclosed. One method can comprise receiving a request for content comprising at least a first segment. The method can also comprise determining an expiration condition of the first segment, and replacing the first segment with a second segment based on the expiration condition. The method can also comprise providing the second segment to a user or a device. |
| US09319441B2 |
Processor allocation for multi-core architectures
Methods, computing devices, and computer readable storage media for testing network connections are disclosed. A first processor of a plurality of processors may define a new TCP connection to be opened. The first processor may apply a hash function to determine a second processor of the plurality of processors to open the new TCP connection. The first processor may provide data defining the new TCP connection to the second processor. The second processor may open the new TCP connection in accordance with the data provided by the first processor. |
| US09319440B2 |
Third party call control application program interface
A third party call control (3PCC) application program interface (API) permits for users to use a web browser or other Internet capable software to place a call. The third party call control application program interface includes a first uniform resource locator operable over the Internet to effect a call between first and telephonic devices to be completed. The first uniform resource locator includes identification of the first telephonic device and identification of the second telephonic device. |
| US09319439B2 |
Secured wireless session initiate framework
A method for reducing a call establishment time in real-time communication between at least two devices. The method includes: receiving, at a first internal server of a system, a first communication from a caller, wherein the first communication is a push request that comprises an attempt to initiate a connection with a callee; and sending a push notification via the first internal server to the callee, wherein the first internal server has at least two interfaces, wherein each interface of the at least two interfaces comprises a User Datagram Protocol (UDP) port, wherein the sending includes: embedding, by the first internal server and inside the push notification, an external UDP (IP, port) pair, of the at least two interfaces, to which the callee is able to connect. |
| US09319434B2 |
SIP header to indicate mobility transfer operation
A method (500) of indicating a process to be implemented in support of a mobility transfer operation and a method (600) of responding to a mobility transfer operation being initiated. A session initiation protocol (SIP) request (120, 124, 128, 220, 226, 228) can be generated. The SIP request can indicate a mobility transfer type that corresponds to the mobility transfer operation. The SIP request can be sent from a first device (102, 106) participating in the mobility transfer operation to at least a second device (106, 102) participating in the mobility transfer operation. |
| US09319432B2 |
Information processor, information processing method and non-transitory storage medium storing information processing program
Provided is an information processor that receives a request for initiating a call between a phone on the calling side and a phone on the called side and performs call transmission with respect to the phone on the calling side and the phone on the called side, the information processor including: a registration unit that registers a list of a plurality of IP address conversion servers performing IP address conversion needed for a call between the phone on the calling side and the phone on the called side; a selection unit that selects, on the basis of the location of the phone on the calling side or the phone on the called side, the IP address conversion server to be used from the list that is registered in the registration unit; and a call execution unit that executes, using the selected IP address conversion server, a call while performing IP address conversion for voice packets exchanged between the phone on the calling side and the phone on the called side. |
| US09319429B2 |
Network quarantine system, network quarantine method and program therefor
To isolate a terminal from a network immediately after a quarantine agent is uninstalled therefrom, a policy readout unit reads out a policy from a policy database and a policy check unit determines whether or not a terminal satisfies the policy that was read out. If it is determined that the terminal satisfies the read out policy, a quarantine server control unit instructs a bridge to destroy a packet with no VLAN tag among the packets sent from the terminal while controlling a quarantine agent to send a packet with a VLAN tag when sending the packet from the terminal. |
| US09319420B1 |
Cyber intelligence clearinghouse
Systems, methods, and computer-readable and executable instructions are provided for providing a cyber intelligence clearinghouse (CIC). Providing a CIC can include generating analysis data from intelligence information collected from a number of sources. In addition, providing a CIC can include calculating a number of fidelity scores from the analysis data, wherein the number of fidelity scores represent a trustworthiness of the number of sources. In addition, providing a CIC can include determining a number of events to block based on the number of fidelity scores. Furthermore, providing a CIC can include providing feedback data to the number of sources based on the number of fidelity scores and the number of events to block. |
| US09319416B2 |
Priority based radius authentication
An apparatus, method and machine readable storage medium, for an authentication server such as a RADIUS server, for authenticating a subscriber are disclosed. The method comprises: receiving at the authentication server, a request message including a plurality of attributes having respective attribute names and respective attribute values; retrieving from a profile storage, an authentication profile object; identifying a plurality of authentication attributes to use for authentication, including a respective associated priority value, from the authentication profile object; extracting attribute values from the request message, corresponding to each authentication attribute; and attempting to authenticate the request message based on each of the extracted attribute value in order of a respective associated priority value until the authentication attempt is successful. |
| US09319415B2 |
Method and system for providing reference architecture pattern-based permissions management
Reference architecture pattern role data representing reference architecture pattern roles to be associated with entities taking part in the development, and/or deployment, and/or operation of an application is generated. Reference architecture pattern tier data representing reference architecture pattern tiers used to create, and/or deploy, and/or operate an application using the reference architecture pattern is generated. For each reference architecture pattern role at least one access and/or operational permission is associated with each reference architecture pattern tier. At least one entity is assigned one of the reference architecture pattern roles and for each reference architecture pattern tier, the at least one entity is automatically provided the at least one access and/or operational permission associated with the reference architecture pattern role assigned to the entity. |
| US09319414B2 |
Scalable full spectrum cyber determination process
A full spectrum cyber identification determination process for accurately and reliably determining and reporting any identification determination from a full spectrum of possible cyber identification determinations. Utilizing cyber resources and predetermined criteria for providing cyber identification determinations for at least one unidentified subject of an observation, the process: provides identification determinations for any possible subject of an observation; provides for the utilization of any selected attainable level of accuracy, up to, and including 100% accuracy; provides for single, intermittent, and constant identification determinations; utilizes any available cyber resources; interacts with utilized cyber resources to provide any possible function and/or observation; recognizes characteristics from observations and then utilizes recognized characteristics for comparing and/or determining; provides and utilizes a standard set of designations for representing all aspects of the process; utilizes useful information and/or outcomes from comparing for making identification determinations; and, reports on any aspect of the process at any time. |
| US09319411B2 |
Security management for cloud services
A cloud management node (102) in a public cloud (100) works together with a private management system (116) in a private cloud (114) to manage provisioning and access to cloud services from the private cloud (114). Private data does not need to be held or duplicated in the public cloud so that the data security is enhanced. The private management system (116) issues tokens for authorization so that user access to cloud services may be controlled. The cloud management node (102) receives provisioning requests from the private cloud (114) and selects and informs an appropriate service provider node (112) that a provisioning request is waiting. In examples an administrator at the private cloud (114) is able to manage cloud service access for many users in a simple effective manner and users are able to operate multiple cloud services from a single account. |
| US09319410B1 |
Electronic shared-document repository
In an embodiment, a client device receives from a server device one or more bookmark objects associated with one or more respective bookmarks to which a provided authentication credential authorizes access. Each respective bookmark is associated with a respective location in a respective document. The client device presents via a user interface one or more bookmark references corresponding to respective received bookmark objects. The client device receives via the user interface an indication of a selected bookmark reference and sends to the server device a bookmarked-document request specifying the received bookmark object corresponding to the selected bookmark reference. The client device (i) receives from the server device a bookmarked-document object that corresponds to the specified bookmark object and that includes a portion of the associated respective document at the associated respective location and (ii) presents via the user interface the included portion of the associated respective document. |
| US09319409B2 |
Automatic configuration of household playback devices
Embodiments are provided for causing a playback device to be automatically added to a secure network for rendering media in synchrony with other devices in the secure network. The playback device may, without any input from a user, transmit a first message indicating that the playback device is available to join the network. Upon receiving the first message, a device already in the secure network may transmit to the playback device a second message indicating security parameters for joining the network. The playback device may then join the secure network accordingly. Embodiments are also provided for causing a playback device to be automatically configured, without any input from a user. Another device in the secure network may receive a configuration table indicating setup information for the playback device, and may subsequently transmit the setup information to the playback device and cause the playback device to be configured accordingly. |
| US09319408B2 |
One step security system in a network storage system
This is directed to providing access to content stored on a local cloud. In particular, a device can direct a librarian service overseeing the operation of a local cloud to provide another device with access to content stored on the local cloud. The librarian service can generate credentials for the other device, and provide the credentials to the other device. Using the credentials, the other device can connect directly to the local cloud and access the content. In addition, the local cloud can validate the credentials of the other before providing access to the content. The credentials can include, for example, a key to install or load on the device. The librarian may not require, however, the user to create credentials or register with the librarian before being permitted to access the content on the local cloud. |
| US09319406B2 |
System and method for linking pre-installed software to a user account on an online store
Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for associating an application that was pre-installed on a computer with a user account on an online store. A system configured to practice the method presents an application available for download, receives a request to download the application to a computing device, determines that the application is a pre-installed application, presents an authorization prompt configured to request user authorization to link the application with a user account, receives the user authorization, generates a unique hardware identifier associated with the computing device, determines that the application is linkable based upon the unique hardware identifier, and links the adoptable application with the user account when the adoptable application is linkable. |
| US09319405B2 |
System and methods for assignation and use of media content subscription service privileges
This invention describes a system and methods for media content subscription service distribution; typical services include cable television, premium content channels, pay-per-view, XM radio, and online mp3 services. Subscribers use portable electronic devices to store digital certificates certifying the subscriber's privileges and an assigned public key. The devices can communicate with specially enabled televisions, radios, computers, or other media presentation apparatuses. These, in turn, can communicate with central databases owned by the provider, for verification purposes. Methods of the invention describe media content subscription service privilege issuing and use. The invention additionally describes methods for protecting media content transmitted to users with a variety of encryption schemes. The invention also comprises methods for subscribed users to bestow a subset of their privileges to a number of secondary users, with appropriate permission from the media content subscription service provider. |
| US09319397B2 |
On-vehicle gateway apparatus and communication system for vehicle
An on-vehicle gateway apparatus that carries out authentication of an external apparatus at a time of connection between the external apparatus and a vehicle, and relays communications between the external apparatus and in-vehicle communication when the authentication is successful, operates due to power supply from the external apparatus at a time of connection between the external apparatus and the vehicle, and carries out authentication of the external apparatus. |
| US09319395B2 |
System and method for securing authentication information in a networked environment
This disclosure is directed to systems and methods for securely communicating authentication information in a networked environment such as one involving a client device, a cloud based computing platform, and an enterprise computing environment. Some embodiments may include encrypting, by a client device using a public key, authentication information provided by a user. The encrypted authentication information is sent to a cloud based service which then sends it to an on-premises component residing behind a firewall of an enterprise. The on-premises component decrypts the authentication information using a private key, validates the authentication information, and returns the result to the cloud based service over a network. If validated, the cloud based service establishes a secure connection between the client device and the on-premises component such that the user can access the enterprise's content without the enterprise having to share the authentication information with the cloud based service. |
| US09319394B2 |
System and method for pool-based identity authentication for service access without use of stored credentials
A computer-implemented system and method for pool-based identity authentication for service access without use of stored credentials is disclosed. The method in an example embodiment includes providing provisioning information for storage in a provisioning repository; receiving a service request from a service consumer, the service request including requestor identifying information; generating an authentication request to send to an authentication authority, the authentication request including requestor identifying information; receiving validation of an authenticated service request from the authentication authority; and providing the requested service to the service consumer. |
| US09319384B2 |
Filtering hidden data embedded in media files
Systems and methods for filtering unsafe content at a network security appliance are provided. According to one embodiment, a network security appliance captures network traffic and extracts a media file from the network traffic. The network security appliance then determines the presence of a hidden data item embedded in the media file in a machine-readable form. When such a hidden data item is identified, the network security appliance performs one or more actions on the media file based on a predefined security policy. |
| US09319383B2 |
Firewall with two-phase filtering
Two-phase filtering for a firewall is disclosed. In the first, general phase, a request is filtered to verify one or more of: that the request is pursuant to a supported protocol, that a command of the request is allowed, that the length of the request does not exceed the allowed maximum for the command, and that characters of the request are of an allowable type. Upon first-phase verification, a second phase is invoked that is particular to the protocol of the request. In the second, specialized phase, the request is filtered to verify one or more of the source, the destination, and the content of the request. Upon second-phase verification, the request is allowed to pass. If either first- or second-phase verification fails, then the request is denied. |
| US09319381B1 |
Systems and methods for supplementing content policy
A method for supplementing a content policy is provided. The method may include receiving a request to access network content associated with a network content, with the network content including additional network content associated with one or more linked network contents. The method may confirm that the network content is associated with the content policy. The content policy may include a list of pre-approved network contents. Based on the confirmation, the method may selectively provide access to the network content and apply the content policy to the additional network content associated with the one or more linked network contents. A policy enforcement module may determine whether or not the additional network content should be included in the network content, and, based on the determination, selectively allow inclusion of the additional network content within the network content. |
| US09319380B2 |
Below-OS security solution for distributed network endpoints
Described systems and methods allow protecting a client system, such as a computer system or smartphone, from malware. In some embodiments, a network regulator device is used to distribute a bootable image of a hypervisor, on demand, to each of a set of client systems connected to a network. After booting on a client system, the hypervisor loads the local OS and applications into a virtual machine. Integrity measurements of the hypervisor and/or OS are sent to the network regulator for verification. When the network regulator determines that software executing on a client system, such as the hypervisor and/or the OS, are not in a trusted state, the network regulator may block access of the respective client system to the network. |
| US09319374B2 |
Personalized bookmarking of textsite applications via a text message
A method for using a bookmark to access content from a global textsite platform (GTP). The method includes obtaining a bookmark creating text message, wherein the bookmark creating text message is based on a text messaging service (TMS) and sent by a user to create the bookmark, extracting, by a computer processor from the bookmark creating text message and based on a pre-determined syntax, a user ID representing the user, a first bookmark ID representing the bookmark, and a first registered unique keyword used to access a first textsite from the GTP based on the TMS, and storing, as a bookmark entry in a bookmark list of the GTP, the user ID, the first bookmark ID, and the first registered unique keyword, wherein the first bookmark ID is used by the user to access the first textsite from the GTP. |
| US09319365B1 |
Systems and methods for storing and transferring message data
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for storing and transferring messages. An example method includes providing a queue having an ordered plurality of storage blocks. Each storage block stores one or more respective messages and is associated with a respective time. The times increase from a block designating a head of the queue to a block designating a tail of the queue. The method also includes reading, by each of a plurality of first sender processes, messages from one or more blocks in the queue beginning at the head of the queue. The read messages are sent, by each of the plurality of first sender processes, to a respective recipient. One or more of the blocks are designated as old when they have associated times that are earlier than a first time. A block is designated as a new head of the queue when the block is associated with a time later than or equal to the first time. One or more of the first sender processes is allowed to read messages from the old blocks until a second time which is later than the first time. One or more of the old blocks are deleted at a time later than or equal to the second time. |
| US09319362B1 |
Messaging system with distributed filtering modules which register interests, remove any messages that do not match the registered interest, and forward any matched messages for delivery
In a message delivery system, messages are carried over a network in packets. Server hosts support applications for originating and receiving messages and network interfaces. Switches interconnect the server hosts and form the packet network. Some of the switches are linked to the local server hosts. Distributed filtering/matching modules associated with the local server hosts register interests for applications on the associated local server hosts, inspect packets received over the network or from a local server host to match messages with registered interests and remove any unmatched packets from the packets. The matched messages are forwarded to the local server host for delivery to the applications. This system offers the ability to use special purpose hardware for the filtering/matching function without requiring connections to a common message broker. |
| US09319358B2 |
Terminal interaction methods and related devices and systems
This provides a terminal interaction method, device, and system. The method includes: a first IM terminal receiving a user-entered file transfer command directed to a second IM terminal, the two terminals logged into an IM platform using associated account numbers, determining whether the two terminals belong to a same LAN, if yes, starting a local Web server of the first IM terminal and generating URL address information of a file, transmitting, to the second IM terminal, address information of the local Web server and the URL address information of the file, the second IM terminal transmitting, in accordance with the address information of the local Web server, to the local Web server, a file obtaining request including the URL address information of the file, and the local Web server obtaining and transmitting the file to the second IM terminal in accordance with the URL address information of the file. |
| US09319357B2 |
Context based virtual area creation
Examples of systems and methods for context based virtual area creation are described. Some examples provide a quick and easy way for users to wrap virtual areas around contexts of interest. Examples of such contexts may be defined in terms of one or more of content, people, and real-world location. The virtual areas support realtime communications between communicants (e.g., one or more of text chat, voice, video, application sharing, and file sharing) and provide a persistent historical repository for interactions in the virtual area. Summaries of activities and other events in virtual areas typically are published in realtime so that other communicants can readily obtain a quick summary of the activities occurring in a particular context and decide whether or not to join or otherwise participate in those activities. |
| US09319355B2 |
Communications system having instant message (IM) contact based communications and related methods
A communications system may include a content provider device having an instant message (IM) content provider contact associated therewith and may be configured to store content. The communications system may include an IM contact server configured to register the content provider device and thereafter allow subscriber access to the IM content provider contact. The communications system may further include a communications server configured to communicate with the content provider device, and a subscriber device configured to access the IM content provider contact from the IM contact server, and download content from the content provider device via the communications server and based upon the IM content provider contact. |
| US09319354B2 |
Network storage device and method for data transmission via a single serial network link
A network storage device receives data from and transmits data to a plurality of network devices via a single serial network link. The network storage device has a cache selector, for transferring data associated with individual ones of the plurality of-network devices to corresponding cache queues. Data is output from a cache queue to the storage device when at least one complete block can be written to the storage device, and from the cache queue to the serial network link when at least one complete frame can be transmitted. |
| US09319349B2 |
Encapsulation enabled PCIE virtualisation
There is herein described a method for transmitting data packets from a first device through a switch to a second device. The method is performed at an intercepting device intermediate the first device and the switch device. The method comprises receiving a first data packet from the first device, determining that the first data packet is to be transmitted to the second device and determining whether the first data packet is of a first type that can not be transmitted from the intercepting device to the second device through the switch. If it is determined that the first data packet is of the first type, the method comprises encapsulating the first data packet within a second data packet, the second data packet being of a second type that can be transmitted from the intercepting device through the switch to the second device, and transmitting the second data packet through the switch to the second device. If it is determined that the first data packet is not of the first type, the method comprises transmitting the first data packet through the switch to the second device. |
| US09319348B2 |
Octal serial gigabit media-independent interface
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving one or more parallel data streams having a first data rate, multiplexing by round-robin selection the parallel data streams into a single serial data stream, modifying the serial data stream by passing it through a self-synchronous scrambler, and transmitting to a receiver across a transmission line the modified serial data stream at a second data rate that is approximately equal to ten times the first data rate. |
| US09319344B2 |
Mobile radio communications device for communication within a packet data network
The invention provides for a mobile radio communications device for communication within a packet data network and arranged for transmitting dedicated bearer set-up signalling to the network as part of a network attachment procedure, the device further being arranged to store the said dedicated bearer set-up signalling and to transmit or retransmit the same responsive to the success of attach complete signalling. |
| US09319339B2 |
Communication system and superimposing apparatus
The communication system includes: first terminal devices connected to a transmission path and having terminal information; a second terminal device connected to the path and sending an information request requesting the information from the first terminal device; a first superimposing apparatus interposed between the first terminal device and the path; and a second superimposing apparatus interposed between the second terminal device and the path and receiving the request from the second terminal device. The first superimposing apparatus acquires the information from the connected first terminal device at predetermined timings and stores it. Upon receiving the request, the second superimposing apparatus sends the request to the first superimposing apparatus using a superimposed signal superimposed on a transmission signal transmitted via the path. Upon receiving the request, the first superimposing apparatus sends the information to the second superimposing apparatus using the superimposed signal. Upon receiving the information, the second superimposing apparatus provides the information to the second terminal device. |
| US09319338B2 |
Tunnel creation
A non-transitory machine readable medium storing a program that configures managed forwarding elements to establish tunnels between the managed forwarding elements is described. From a particular managed forwarding element, the program receives information regarding coupling of a network element to the first managed forwarding element. Upon receiving the information, the program generates a set of universal flow entries for configuring another managed forwarding element to establish a tunnel to the particular managed forwarding element. |
| US09319336B2 |
Scheduling distribution of logical control plane data
A controller for distributing logical control plane data to other controllers is described. The controller includes an interface for receiving user inputs to define logical datapath sets. The controller includes a translator for translating the user inputs to output logical control plane data. The logical control plane data is for subsequent translation into logical forwarding plane data by several other controllers. The controller includes a scheduler for (1) storing the output logical control plane data in a plurality of storage structures, each storage structure corresponding to one of the other controllers and (2) sending the output logical control plane data to the other controllers from the corresponding storage structure. |
| US09319335B1 |
Distributed operating system for a layer 2 fabric
A system that includes a layer 2 fabric, a first host, and a second host. The layer 2 fabric includes a first network device and a second network device. The first host is connected to the first network device and includes a first virtual machine (VM). The second host is connected to the second network device and includes a second VM. The layer 2 fabric includes a virtual network including the first VM and the second VM and the first virtual network is managed by a virtual network manager executing on the first network device. |
| US09319334B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling congestion in a communication network
An apparatus controls congestion in a communication network. The apparatus includes a plurality of ports configured to transmit and receive frames. The apparatus stores a traffic volume of each of the plurality of ports. The apparatus detects congestion in the communication network, based on frames that are received via the plurality of ports. Then, the apparatus determines one or more ports that receive frames causing the detected congestion, based on the traffic volumes of the plurality of ports. |
| US09319333B2 |
Instantaneous random early detection packet dropping
A device that receives a packet descriptor and a queue number that indicates a queue stored within a memory unit, and in response determines an instantaneous queue depth of the queue. The instantaneous queue depth is used to determine a drop probability. The drop probability is used to randomly determine if the packet descriptor should be stored in the queue. The queue has a first queue depth range and a second queue depth range that do not overlap. A first drop probability is associated with the first queue depth range and a second drop probability is associated with the second queue depth range. The first drop probability is used when the queue depth is within the first queue depth range. The second drop probability is used with the queue depth is within the second queue depth range. The device includes a random value generator and a drop indicator generator. |
| US09319332B2 |
Distributed rescheduling of bounded flows in a time sensitive network
In one embodiment, a device determines that a latency between a receive timeslot of a channel hopping schedule of the device and a transmit timeslot of the channel hopping schedule is greater than a latency threshold for a particular traffic flow to be received during the receive timeslot. The device requests an additional transmit timeslot for the channel hopping schedule from a parent node of the device in the network. The device receives an indication of a newly allocated transmit timeslot for the channel hopping schedule from the parent node. The device maps the receive timeslot to one of the transmit timeslots of the channel hopping schedule, wherein the particular traffic flow is to be forwarded to a second device during the mapped transmit timeslot. |
| US09319330B2 |
Apparatus and method for avoiding packet losses in a network connection
In one embodiment, an apparatus for avoiding packet losses is provided. The apparatus includes a first communication device that is configured to receive packets of data over a network from a second communication device and to store information indicative of a sliding window that corresponds to a predetermined number of packets of data. The first communication device is further configured to determine a number of lost packets of data from within the sliding window in response to receiving the packet of data and to determine a maximum value from the sliding window. The maximum value corresponding to a maximum number of lost packets of data for a number of sliding windows. The first communication device is further configured to control the second communication device to adjust a bandwidth rate at which the packets of data are transmitted over the network based on at least the maximum value. |
| US09319325B2 |
Adaptive method and system of regulation of yellow traffic in a network
A method, an apparatus and/or a system to regulate yellow traffic in a network is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes quantifying, an extent of violation of a transmission rate of a data traffic relative to a committed bandwidth profile in a network. The data traffic is generated through a client device coupled to the network. The method also includes regulating, a volume of the data traffic associated with a particular level of compliance relative to the committed bandwidth profile, at an edge node of the network, based on the quantification. The committed bandwidth profile specifies an average rate of committed and excess data traffic generated by the client device. The particular level of compliance is characterized by the transmission rate exceeding a committed information rate and lying within a peak information rate. The peak information rate is maximum allowable rate of admission of frames into the network. |
| US09319324B2 |
Method and system of service placement for service chaining
A method for placing services at network devices is disclosed. A network contains a plurality of network devices and the network offers a set of services to subscribers. Each subscriber of the network utilizes a subset of the set of service, where an order of the services is not predefined. The method starts with ordering the services from the most utilized service to the least utilized, and selects services from the most utilized to the least utilized. For each service, a network device is selected so that placing the service adds a least sum of additional delay based on services already placed in the network, and a path for each subscriber utilizing the service is updated to include the service, where the path is an ordered chain of services, and where the service is inserted in the path to result in minimum addition to delay to the subscriber. |
| US09319322B2 |
Network device and method for processing traffic using multi-network interface card
A method for processing traffic using a multi-network interface card and a network device employing the method are provided. The network device includes a first network card configured to classify and filter traffic, a second network card configured to inspect and process the traffic classified by the first network card, a processor configured to manage the first and second network cards and apply network policies to the first and second network cards, respectively, and a memory configured to store the network policies. |
| US09319317B1 |
Systems and methods for disseminating addresses in distributed switching environments
In a distributed switching environment, a plurality of switches are clustered together to form a stack, and it is generally desirable for forwarding tables, such as MAC tables, to be synchronized so that their mappings are consistent. When a switch receives a packet having a source address (e.g., MAC address) that is unknown, the switch is configured to disseminate the source address to the other switches of the stack. Rather than using software protocols to disseminate the source address, the switch instead transmits a multicast packet that (1) includes the unknown source address and (2) spoofs the other switches into believing that the packet was received on the same port from which the unknown source address was received on ingress to the stack. Thus, the other switches learn the unknown source address in hardware without having to rely on software for updating their forwarding tables. |
| US09319316B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing transfer of transport operations from a cluster in a processor
A method and corresponding apparatus of managing transport operations between a first memory cluster and one or more other memory clusters, include selecting, at a clock cycle in the first memory cluster, at least one transport operation destined to at least one destination memory cluster, from one or more transport operations, based at least in part on priority information associated with the one or more transport operations or current states of available processing resources allocated to the first memory cluster in each of a subset of the one or more other memory clusters, and initiating the transport of the selected at least one transport operation. |
| US09319314B2 |
Apparatus and method for using link-tail of link list to store data pattern which is indicative of end of link list and auxiliary information
A link list processing apparatus has a storage device and a link list controller. The link list controller sets link list information, and writes the link list information into the storage device to create a link list in the storage device. The link list has a plurality of nodes each having a next node address field. The link list information includes a data pattern configured to indicate an end of the link list as well as auxiliary information. The link list controller stores the data pattern into the next node address field of a link-tail node of the link list. |
| US09319312B2 |
Segment routing mapping server for LDP/SR interoperability
An apparatus and method for enabling interoperability of segment routing (SR) enabled nodes and LDP enabled nodes in a network domain. In one embodiment, the method may include mapping a first node identifier (ID) to a first segment ID in memory, wherein the first node ID uniquely identifies a first node within a network domain, and wherein the first node is not SR enabled. A message is generated and subsequently transmitted directly or indirectly to another node within the network domain, wherein the message comprises the first node ID mapped to the first segment ID, and wherein the other node is SR enabled. |
| US09319309B2 |
Mobile router information management server, mobile router, mobile router network, and communication method for same
With the object of enabling data transfer between mobile routers without going through a home agent and establishing a connection to a destination mobile router even when mobile communication terminals equipped in the destination mobile router are changed at the time of initiating connection to the destination mobile router, a mobile router information management server has a mobile router registration information table that registers, for each mobile router, mobile router information that is reported from the mobile routers and that includes identification information of the mobile routers and identification information of mobile communication terminals equipped in the mobile routers, in response to inquiry information from a mobile router that includes identification information of another mobile router that is to be a communication destination, searches the mobile router registration information table, based on the identification information of the other mobile router, for mobile router information that includes identification information of mobile communication terminals equipped in the other mobile router, and returns the searched mobile router information to the mobile router. |
| US09319302B2 |
System and method for traffic engineering information summary of a zone in network communications
A method for summarizing topology transparent zone (TTZ) traffic engineering (TE) information, comprising computing a TE link state for every TE link internal to a TTZ from a root node to one or more non-root edge nodes, wherein the TE link state comprises the maximum bandwidth of the link, summarizing the computed TE link state information and storing the summary in a memory, and distributing at least a portion of the information in the summary to at least one neighboring node external to the TTZ connected to the root node via an external link. |
| US09319291B2 |
Server system, management device, server management method, and program
A server system (1) includes a management device (100) connected through a communication network (3) to plural physical servers (10) on which plural virtual servers (20) run and managing the plural virtual servers (20) running on the physical servers (10), the management device (100) including a judging unit (104) that divides a process of judging whether an available resource capacity, in a case where the virtual servers (20) run on the physical servers (10), satisfies a predetermined condition, into plural processes for every predetermined unit of time, and performs the processes of judging through parallel distributed processing. |
| US09319290B1 |
Method for calculating the subscribability of a channel on the web
A subscribability is calculated for a channel on the web. One or more activity metrics related to the subscribability of a plurality of channels viewable over the Internet are identified. For each of the plurality of channels, an activity measure associated with the channel is obtained for each of the one or more activity metrics. For each of the plurality of channels, a subscribability score for the channel is calculated based on the one or more activity measures associated with the channel. |
| US09319287B2 |
Dynamic contact list
A system that can store attributes from a plurality of past communications by a terminal device to one or more recipients. The system can also identify a routine based on the stored attributes. The system can also generate a contact list including at least one of the one or more recipients according to the routine. The system can also output the contact list. The attributes may include identifications of one or more recipients of the plurality of past communications and an order in which the one or more recipients are communicated with from one or more locations of the terminal device during the plurality of past communications. |
| US09319284B2 |
Operation delay monitoring method, operation management apparatus, and operation management program
A delay in a configuration changing operation of a computer system including a manual procedure and an automatic procedure is detected.Based on actions of a setup tool or a configuration tool operated on IT resources, an event which occurs corresponding to the start and the end of a manual procedure is detected and the actual time of the manual procedure is calculated from the detection time points. Next, a delay rate is calculated from a scheduled time and the actual time of the manual procedure, and an end time point of an incomplete operation procedure is estimated from an estimated time required for the manual procedure with the calculated delay rate taken into account and from a time required for the automatic procedure to determine whether the scheduled operation will be finished within a period. |
| US09319277B2 |
Network router employing enhanced prefix limiting
A disclosed method of managing a provider edge (PE) router includes defining a neighbor specific prefix limit and a neighbor specific restart parameter applicable to a neighbor of the PE router. The neighbor may be a customer edge (CE) router connected to the PE router. A neighbor specific count of prefixes advertised by the CE router is monitored against the prefix limit. When a neighbor specific prefix limit violation occurs, the PE-to-CE connection is suspended for a duration determined at least in part by the restart parameter and then automatically resumed. The PE router may define an address family prefix limit and an address family restart parameter applicable to the CE router's address family. Violations of the address family prefix limit may result in temporary suspension of all connections between the PE router and the members of the address family. |
| US09319276B2 |
Client modeling in a forwarding plane
In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a packet at a network device in communication with a plurality of client nodes, the packet identifying a first client node, performing a look up in a table stored at the network device to locate policies associated with the first client node, the table including an entry for each of the client nodes, each entry having a plurality of policies associated with the client node, applying the policies associated with the first client node at a forwarding engine at the network device, and forwarding the packet from the network device. An apparatus is also disclosed. |
| US09319271B2 |
Management device and management method
A management device includes a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor executes a process including, searching a network for a node that belongs to a management area to which the management device belongs, and creating management information in which the node searched for at the searching is used as a node that is targeted for management. |
| US09319270B2 |
Configuration of third party applications in a sandboxed environment
A profile manager application is installed in an electronic device that fetches configuration profiles for third party applications from a remote server. Using code libraries incorporated in the third party applications and URL based commands, the profile manager application communicates with the third party applications to configure them according to the corresponding configuration profiles, even though the third party applications are running in a sandboxed environment. |
| US09319269B2 |
Security infrastructure for cloud services
A framework for handling a secure interaction between components in a cloud infrastructure system that wish to transfer information between each other during processing of a customer's subscription order is described. The framework orders the security zones of components based on security levels and protects the transfer of information between components in security zones with different security levels. The assignment of a component to a security zone is based upon the sensitivity of the data handled by the components, the sensitivity of functions performed by the component, and the like. |
| US09319266B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing diameter routing
A method and a network device for managing Diameter routing are disclosed in the communication technology. The network device avoids frequently sending a Diameter message on a faulty routing. In the method: a network apparatus receives a first Diameter message configured to be delivered to a destination node. The network apparatus determines a routing status of a primary routing from the network apparatus to the destination node according to recorded routing status from the network apparatus to the destination node. The network apparatus sends the first Diameter message through the primary routing if the routing status of the primary routing is normal. The network apparatus sends the first Diameter message through an alternative routing from the network apparatus to the destination node if the routing status of the primary routing is faulty. |
| US09319261B2 |
Transmission apparatus
A square detection circuit square-detects a portion of a high frequency transmission signal that is extracted by a directional coupler, of a high frequency transmission signal amplified by a power amplifier. A first adjustment circuit extracts a DC component from a detection output of the square detection circuit, and adjusts respective amplitudes of baseband I and Q signals generated by an I/Q signal generation circuit, in response to the extracted DC component. A second adjustment circuit extracts an AC component from the detection output of the square detection circuit, and adjusts the respective amplitudes and phases, and the respective DC offsets of the baseband I and Q signals generated by the I/Q signal generation circuit, in response to the extracted AC component. |
| US09319260B2 |
Block time domain channel estimation in OFDM system
An OFDM receiver receives OFDM symbols in the frequency domain and comb filters and then punctures the OFDM symbols to leave symbols with actual pilot information and with null values at the data symbols. The receiver provides the punctured OFDM symbols to an OFDM symbol queue. A virtual pilot interpolator is coupled to the punctured OFDM symbol storage to generate virtual pilot information introduced to OFDM symbols. The interpolator may be a two dimensional Wiener filter. The receiver also includes a time domain channel estimator that processes a first OFDM symbol including virtual pilot information to generate a channel impulse response for the first OFDM symbol. A frequency equalizer equalizes the OFDM symbol in response to the channel impulse response for the first OFDM symbol. |
| US09319252B2 |
Precoding and feedback channel information in wireless communication system
The present invention relates to precoding and feedback channel information in wireless communication system. |
| US09319249B2 |
Receiver for high speed communication channel
A receiver for data recovery from a channel signal of a communications channel. The receiver includes a quantization circuit to generate a quantized code corresponding to the channel signal. A first decision circuit recovers, in a first signal processing mode, digital data for the channel signal based on the quantized representation of the channel signal. A second decision circuit recovers, in a second signal processing mode, the digital data for the channel signal based on the quantized representation of the channel signal. A controller selects between the first signal processing mode and the second signal processing mode based on a parameter indicative of a signal quality of the channel signal. |
| US09319248B2 |
Decision feedback equalizer using current mode processing with CMOS compatible output level
A decision feedback equalizer system is disclosed. The decision feedback equalizer system includes a current summer core that in current mode, removes inter-symbol interference from a signal, and, a CMOS latch component, that is coupled to the current summer core, that receives a current mode signal and outputs a CMOS compatible signal. The components of the decision feedback equalizer system are controlled by a single clock. |
| US09319246B2 |
Voice-over-internet protocol (VOIP) application platform
A computer-implemented system is provided that facilitates implementation of a voice over IP (VOIP) application. The system includes a host system and a user interface (UI) host process residing on the host system. The system also includes an agent host process residing on the host system which is being configured to process a VOIP call received by one or more VOIP applications executable on the host system. The agent host process running as a foreground or background process for the duration of the VOIP call to (i) communicate with a VOIP server associated with the VOIP application, (ii) capture content from at least one input device associated with the host system and (iii) render content on an output device associated with the host system when an instance of the UI host process operates in the foreground. |
| US09319244B2 |
Methods for emailing labels as portable data files and devices thereof
A method, computer readable medium and device that enables emailing a label as a portable data file to destination information associated with a mobile computing device includes obtaining at a proxy server device a web page with a label from a web server device in response to a request from a mobile computing device. The proxy server device obtains destination information for the label associated with the requesting mobile computing device. The proxy server device converts the label into a portable data file and transmits the portable data file using the destination information for the label associated with the requesting mobile computing device. |
| US09319243B2 |
Message server that retains messages deleted by one client application for access by another client application
A first processing session is entered with a POP client. A set of messages from a message repository is identified as available for access by the POP client. When the POP client causes a message to be deleted from the message repository (either by explicit or implicit actions), the message is removed from the set of messages available for access by the POP client but maintained for access by another POP client or by another messaging program. The messages available may be limited by a session size and they may be ordered newest to oldest. In some instances messages are part of conversations and the number of conversation from which the message may be drawn is limited. |
| US09319242B2 |
Handling traffic flows in a mobile communications network
A method includes receiving a request for establishing a communication pathway end-to-end over a network. The communication pathway includes a radio communication channel and a packet communication channel. The request identifies a plurality of traffic flows to be carried by the communication pathway and quality-of-service attributes associated with the traffic flows. At least one traffic flow is associated with at least one quality-of-service attribute determining the quality-of-service requirement for the at least one traffic flow. A quality-of-service is negotiated, based on the quality-of-service attribute, and the negotiated quality-of-service is reported. |
| US09319240B2 |
Ethernet Ring Protection node
Systems and methods are disclosed for providing redundancy in a network node implementing a ring protection protocol. Each of the two ring ports connecting the node to other nodes in a ring supporting the protocol may be maintained by a separate line card. Should one line card fail, traffic passing through the node may be redirected through the remaining ring port under the control of the surviving state machine. The two state machines may be coordinated over the backplane of the node to maintain a common state, making them transparent to other nodes. Additionally, the backplane link between the state machines may be monitored for failures that may be addressed with messages used to respond to general ring failures and by assigning one state machine to block a ring port upon recovery to prevent a loop within the ring until the ring protection link can be blocked. |
| US09319237B2 |
Method and device for controlling a bus system and a corresponding bus system
Method for controlling a bus system having at least two users, a first user repeatedly transmitting a reference message in at least one predeterminable time interval over the bus system, the reference message being triggered by time trigger information when the time information reaches a time mark assigned to the trigger information, wherein the time mark is altered at least once in such a way that when the time information reaches the altered time mark, time shifting of the trigger information occurs. |
| US09319229B2 |
Transmission terminal and method of transmitting display data
A transmission terminal includes a network communication unit to transceive predetermined data with another transmission terminal connected to a communication network; a proximity communication unit to establish a proximity communication with an information providing apparatus that displays a predetermined image and to transmit connection setting information required to establish a communication at a longer range; a short-range communication unit to establish a radio communication with the information providing apparatus at a longer range than the proximity communication unit using the connection setting information; a display data receiving unit to receive display data through a communication path established by the short-range communication unit; a display data transmitting unit to transmit the display data received by the display data receiving unit to the other transmission terminal using the network communication unit; and a display control unit to display the image data and/or the display data on a display device. |
| US09319222B2 |
Two factor authentication of ICR transport and payload for interchassis redundancy
Exemplary methods for performing authentication by a first network device of an inter-chassis redundancy (ICR) system, the ICR system comprising the first network device communicatively coupled to a second network device of the ICR system, includes in response to determining to transmit an ICR message to the second network device, generating the ICR message by generating a first and second authentication digest. In one embodiment, the methods include encrypting a payload of the ICR message, and transmitting the ICR message that includes the first and second authentication digest to the second network device. In another aspect of the invention, the methods include receiving an ICR message from the second network device and performing a first level authentication of the received ICR message. The methods further include in response to determining the first level authentication is successful, performing a second level authentication of the received ICR message. |
| US09319219B2 |
Method of operating a computing device, computing device and computer program
A data access application key is generated. The data access application key is for use by a data access application to enable decryption of data that is stored in encrypted form on a computing device using the data access application key. The data access application key is generated using an identifier of the data access application and an application key that is specific to at least one of the computing device and/or a user of the computing device. |
| US09319214B2 |
Multi-mode power amplifier architecture
Radio frequency (RF) circuitry, which includes a time division duplex (TDD)/frequency division duplex (FDD) driver stage, a TDD final stage, an FDD final stage, and power directing circuitry, is disclosed. The power directing circuitry is coupled between the TDD/FDD driver stage and the TDD final stage, and is further coupled between the TDD/FDD driver stage and the FDD final stage. |
| US09319212B2 |
Fingerprint authenticated touchsceeen contolled cascaded 3G-OFDM mobile systems
Receiving and demodulating in a mobile device Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexed (OFDM) modulated signal into OFDM baseband signal. Converting OFDM baseband signal into spread spectrum baseband signal. Spread spectrum baseband signal contains cross-correlated in-phase and quadrature phase baseband signals. Receiving and demodulating a video spread spectrum modulated signal for providing video spread spectrum baseband signal for viewing baseband video signal. Transmitting and receiving OFDM video and voice signals in Video Internet Protocol (ViIP) and in Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Wi-Fi networks. Processing a touch screen generated signal into a processed touch screen control signal to launch browser from the screen of mobile device and using a fingerprint generated signal for providing from fingerprint signal a fingerprint authentication signal. Processing a received demodulated location finding modulated signal with a photo camera generated signal and modulating and transmitting the demodulated location finding modulated signal with the camera generated signal. |
| US09319210B2 |
Adaptive operational full-duplex and half-duplex FDD modes in wireless networks
Methods and apparatus that enable a wireless network system to dynamically change between full-duplex FDD operation and half-duplex FDD operation in order to take advantage of operational aspects of both modes. In one embodiment, an alternative duplex mode of operation is disclosed (semi-static half duplex FDD operation) that enables coordination between the client device (e.g., UMTS UE) and the base station in order to centralize control of radio resource control (RRC) to the base station. The disclosed methods and apparatus may also advantageously incorporate hybrid ARQ (HARQ) or comparable timing requirements into their operation. |
| US09319205B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing cross-carrier scheduling for SPS
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus in which a base station transmits a signal to a relay in a wireless communication system. A method in which a terminal receives a downlink signal in a wireless communication system that supports carrier aggregation comprises: a step of receiving, on a first carrier, a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) having no carrier indication information; and a step of receiving a physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) using the scheduling information carried on the PDCCH, wherein the PDSCH is received on the first carrier in the event the PDCCH is a non-semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) PDCCH, and the PDSCH is received on a second carrier different from the first carrier in the event the PDCCH is an SPS PDCCH. |
| US09319198B2 |
Packet data transmitting method and mobile communication system using the same
A packet data transmitting method and mobile communication system using the same enables transmission of common ACK/NACK information from each sector of a base station to a user entity in softer handover. The method includes receiving via at least one of the plurality of sectors a data packet from the mobile terminal, the data packet being correspondingly received for each of the at least one of the plurality of sectors; combining the correspondingly received data packets, to obtain a signal having a highest signal-to-noise ratio; decoding the value obtained by the combining; determining a transmission status of the data packet according to the decoding; and transmitting to the mobile terminal a common ACK/NACK signal including one of a common ACK signal and a common NACK signal according to the determining, the common ACK/NACK signal being transmitted via each of the at least one sector. |
| US09319196B2 |
Method of operating an HARQ buffer for a dynamic sub-frame change and an apparatus for same
The present invention relates to a method of supporting a Hybrid Automatic Repeat and request (HARQ) scheme of a reception end for supporting a dynamic resource change in a wireless communication system. In particular, the method includes the steps of receiving a change message for changing a currently applied first subframe setting to a second subframe setting from a transmission end, and transmitting and receiving a signal to and from the transmission end according to the second subframe setting, wherein a plurality of subframe settings including the first and second subframe settings are divided into one or more groups, the first and second subframe settings belongs to an identical group, and the HARQ scheme is applied according to the group-specific maximum number of HARQ processes and a soft buffer size for each HARQ process when the subframe setting is changed according to the change message. |
| US09319195B2 |
Multiplexing PUCCH information
An exemplary method of communicating includes multiplexing control signaling in a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) onto a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) by puncturing PUSCH data with PUCCH control information using a uniform distribution of the PUCCH information within at least one resource block of the PUSCH data. One example includes using a first constant amplitude zero autocorrelation sequence (CAZAC) index on PUCCH for communicating CQI and ACK information together and using a second, different CAZAC sequence index for communicating CQI information alone or with NAK information or DTX. The used index provides an indication of whether ACK information is communicated. The used index also provides implicit DTX detection without additional processing. |
| US09319194B2 |
Managing sounding signals to limit power in a multicarrier wireless device
A wireless device receives message(s) configuring cell groups and transmissions of sounding reference signals (SRSs). Uplink transmission timing in a first cell group is derived employing a cell in the first cell group and uplink transmission timing in a second cell group is derived employing a second cell in the second cell group. A first signal is transmitted on a cell of the first cell group. A first subset of the SRSs are dropped and a second subset of the SRSs are transmitted if transmission of SRSs overlap in time with transmission of the first signal and a calculated total transmission power exceeds a first power value. |
| US09319192B2 |
Method for transmitting control information by a base station in a wireless communication system, and device therefor
The present application discloses a method for transmitting, by a base station, downlink control information to a terminal in a wireless communication system. More particularly, the method comprises the steps of: allocating, to a transmission resource, the downlink control information for the terminal; and transmitting, to the terminal, the downlink control information using the transmission resource. the downlink control information for the terminal comprises: a downlink grant; and an uplink grant, wherein the downlink grant is allocated to one of first and second slots of a subframe of the transmission resource, and the uplink grant is allocated to at least one of first and second slots of a subframe of the transmission resource. |
| US09319190B2 |
Mobile communication system
The present invention relates to a mobile communication system having a coordinated communication mode in which radio communication is performed between a user equipment and a plurality of base stations in a coordinated manner and an uncoordinated communication mode in which radio communication is performed between a user equipment and a base station without coordinating with another base station, in which radio communication is performed by selectively using any of the coordinated communication mode and the uncoordinated communication mode. The coordinated communication in which radio communication is performed between a user equipment and a plurality of base stations in a coordinated manner and the uncoordinated communication in which radio communication is performed between a user equipment and a base station without coordinating with another base station are selectively used in an appropriate manner, with the result that a mobile communication system capable of exerting its performance in accordance with a situation can be provided. |
| US09319187B2 |
Method and a device for relaying in a communications network
A method and device for selective relaying in a communications network having a plurality of sources, a relay, and a reception device. The method includes the following steps: the relay receives messages transmitted respectively by the sources in order to obtain an estimate of the messages; the relay detects errors in the estimated messages; the relay transmits a representative signal to the reception device, the signal being representative of only those messages for which no error was detected and resulting from a non-bijective surjective function applied to the messages detected without error, the function including interleaving and encoding; and the representative signal being transmitted by the relay to the reception device with a control signal indicating which messages are represented in the representative signal. |
| US09319184B2 |
Multiple wireless communication device acknowledgements
A method for receiving acknowledgements from plural wireless communication devices is described. A first acknowledgement message addressed to the plural wireless communication devices is transmitted. The first acknowledgement message indicates for each wireless communication device a period within which that wireless communication device should transmit a device acknowledgement message. A device acknowledgement message is received from each of the plural wireless communication devices. The device acknowledgement message is transmitted within the period indicated for that wireless communication device to transmit its device acknowledgement message. Other aspects, embodiments, and features, are also claimed and discussed. |
| US09319183B2 |
Hybrid automatic repeat request operation and decoding status signaling for uplink multiple-input multiple-output
Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate conveying decoding statuses in a wireless communication environment. A UE can transmit a plurality of codewords as part of an uplink multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) transmission to a base station. The base station can receive and attempt to decode the plurality of codewords. Further, decoding statuses for the plurality of codewords can be determined. Moreover, the decoding statuses for the plurality of codewords can be signaled to the UE. For example, the decoding statuses for the plurality of codewords can be conveyed via a single PHICH. According to another example, multiple PHICHs can convey the decoding statuses. Pursuant to a further example, the decoding statuses can be conveyed at least in part via a PDCCH. |
| US09319181B2 |
Parallel decoder for multiple wireless standards
A method of parallel decoding for a plurality of communications standards generally including steps (A) to (C) is disclosed. Step (A) may receive a plurality of first words, at least two of the first words generally have a different length than each other. Step (B) may parse the first words into a plurality of memories. Step (C) may generate a plurality of second words by decoding the first words using a plurality of decoders. The decoders generally operate in parallel. The decoding of at least one of the first words may be performed by at least two of the decoders. The decoding is generally based on a signal that identifies a current one of the communications standards used to transfer the first words. |
| US09319180B2 |
Partitioning forward error correction decoding iterations to accommodate multiple data streams
An optical receiver may receive a data stream, and may decode the data stream using a first iterative forward error correction (FEC) decoder. The optical receiver may determine whether to further decode the data stream using the first iterative FEC decoder or a second iterative FEC decoder that is different from the first iterative FEC decoder. The optical receiver may selectively perform a first action or a section action based on determining whether to further decode the data stream. The first action may include providing the data stream to the first iterative FEC decoder or the second iterative FEC decoder for further decoding when the data stream is to be further decoded. The second action may include preventing the data stream from being provided to the first iterative FEC decoder or the second iterative FEC decoder when the data stream is not to be further decoded. |
| US09319176B2 |
Method of reporting channel quality information in a wireless communication system
A method for encoding control information by a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, includes obtaining a plurality of Channel Quality Information (CQIs) for a plurality of downlink carriers, at least one RI (Rank Indicator) and at least one ACK/NACK (Acknowledgement/Negative-ACK); concatenating the plurality of CQIs; encoding the concatenated plurality of CQIs, the at least one RI and the at least one ACK/NACK, separately; and transmitting the encoded plurality of CQIs, the encoded at least one RI and the encoded at least one ACK/NACK on only one uplink carrier. |
| US09319171B2 |
Method and apparatus of managing bandwidth allocation for upstream transmission in a unified optical-coaxial network
A method of allocating bandwidth in a network comprising receiving a GATE message allocating a transmission time window in an optical portion of the network to a coaxial network unit (CNU) in a coax portion of the network, and generating a coax network resource map by mapping the transmission time window to communication channel resources in the coax portion of the network; and sending the coax network resource map to the CNU. |
| US09319170B2 |
Optical frequency division multiplexer and polarization control method
An all-optical modulator includes a directional coupling unit that multiplexes, on a carrier light beam, a signal light beam of a modulation signal that a carrier signal at a characteristic frequency is modulated with an information signal. The all-optical modulator includes a nonlinear medium that cross-phase-modulates the carrier light beam with the multiplexed signal light beam, and frequency-multiplexes the information signal in the signal light beam on the carrier light beam to generate an optical frequency division multiplexed signal. The all-optical modulator includes a monitoring control unit that controls a polarization control unit that controls a polarization state of the signal light beam in a direction in which an intensity of a modulation component takes a maximum value, based on the intensity of the modulation component involved in a modulation signal at a desired characteristic frequency of the optical frequency division multiplexed signal. |
| US09319165B2 |
Radio coexistence in wireless networks
Technology for reducing interference in collocated radios is disclosed. One method comprises identifying a repeating transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) pattern for multiple radios located in a mobile communication device having a Bluetooth radio collocated with an OFDMA radio. A persistent reservation is requested for at least one sub-frame from the OFDMA radio when the repeating Tx/Rx pattern indicates a Bluetooth packet wherein the Bluetooth radio can not transmit without interference with the OFDMA radio. The repeating Tx/Rx pattern is modified based on the persistent reservation. The Bluetooth radio can communicate based on the modified repeating Tx/Rx pattern to enable interference free communication for the Bluetooth radio and the OFDMA radio in the multi-radio mobile communication device. A collocated WiFi radio's transceiver can align its Tx/Rx with the Tx/Rx pattern, and transmit and receive at the same time slots that other collocated radios are transmitting, and receiving. |
| US09319164B2 |
Apparatus and method of compensating for clock frequency and phase variations by processing packet delay values
An apparatus and method are described for compensating for frequency and phase variations of electronic components by processing packet delay values. In one embodiment, a packet delay determination module determines packet delay values based on time values associated with a first and a second electronic component. A packet delay selection module selects a subset of the packet delay values based on the maximum frequency drift of the first electronic component. A statistical parameter determination module evaluates a first and a second parameter based on portions of the subset of packet delay values. A validation module validates the parameters when each portion the subset of packet delay values includes a minimum of at least two packet delay values. An adjustment module compensates for at least one of a frequency variation and a phase variation of the first electronic component based on the parameters if the parameters are both validated. |
| US09319163B2 |
Wireless communication network system synchronization method
Mobile radio sets are installed on front and rear parts of a mobile body, one of fixed radio sets is set as a synchronization base station, and the other radio sets including the mobile radio sets are set as synchronization packet relay stations. Each of the relay stations in a synchronization acquiring mode makes a transition to a ground synchronization maintaining mode higher in synchronization accuracy when receiving a synchronization packet without the intervention of the mobile radio sets, or makes a transition to an on-vehicle synchronization maintaining mode lower in synchronization accuracy when receiving a synchronization packet with the intervention of the mobile radio sets, and the relay station in the on-vehicle synchronization maintaining mode makes a transition to the ground synchronization maintaining mode when receiving a synchronization packet from a relay station in the ground synchronization maintaining mode. |
| US09319162B2 |
Signal processor and communication device
A signal processor includes a period detection section which detects that a period is currently used for communication of a frame; a pattern detection section which detects, from the received signal, a first signal pattern by which the end of communication of the frame is recognized; and an output processing section which outputs the received signal to a controller; configured to instruct, upon detection of the first signal pattern in the period being currently used for communication of a frame, the controller to halt startup of communication action of the next frame, until the period being currently used for communication of a frame comes to the end, to thereby reduce an event such that frames are transmitted from a plurality of communication devices simultaneously, and to thereby allow the communication action for the next frame to proceed correctly. |
| US09319161B2 |
Participating in television programs
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for enabling viewers to participate in a television program. In one aspect, a method includes transmitting a linear television program that includes a request for viewer responses to be submitted using a user device and receiving, through a communication network, an electronic message including a viewer response to the request from a user. Consideration is received from the user, and the consideration is associated with the viewer response. Credits are allocated to the user in response to receiving the viewer response and consideration. A record of the one or more credits is stored in association with an identifier of the user, and in response to a request from the user, credits associated with the identifier of the user are redeemed in exchange for virtual goods or services associated with delivery of content over a network. |
| US09319160B2 |
Method for updating and method for checking an update of at least one data element in a data carousel, and an associated first device, second device, and data flow
The invention relates to a method and a first device for updating at least one data element in a data carousel, in which an updating element is added to the data carousel for at least one group of at least one data element, wherein the updating element indicates either the time of update of at least one of the data elements of the group, or a time interval for checking an update of at least one of the data elements of the group. The invention also comprises a method and a second device for checking an update of a data element in a data carousel, wherein the checking of at least one of the data elements is performed on the basis of an updating element that is added in the data carousel for at least one group of data elements. Finally, the invention comprises a data flow that has an updating element in the data carousel for at least one group of data elements. |
| US09319159B2 |
High quality detection in FM stereo radio signal
The present document relates to audio signal processing, in particular to an apparatus and a corresponding method for improving an audio signal of an FM stereo radio receiver. In particular, the present document relates to a method and system for reliably detecting the quality of a received FM stereo radio signal and for selecting an appropriate processing based on the detected quality. An apparatus (20) configured to estimate the quality of a received multi-channel FM radio signal is described. The received multi-channel FM radio signal is representable as a mid signal and a side signal, and the side signal is indicative of a difference between a left signal and a right signal. The apparatus (20) comprises a power determination unit configured to determine (101) a power of the mid signal, referred to as mid power, and a power of the side signal, referred to as side power; a ratio determination unit configured to determine (102) a ratio of the mid power and the side power, thereby yielding a mid-to-side ratio; and a quality determination unit configured to determine (105) a quality indicator of the received FM radio signal based at least on the mid-to-side ratio. |
| US09319142B2 |
Full-duplex optical transceiver applicable to digital coherent system
An optical transceiver applicable to the coherent communication is disclosed. The optical transceiver includes a laser module, a transmitter module to output a transmitting signal by modulating a phase of an laser beam output from the laser module, and a receiver module to receive a receiving signal modulated in the phase thereof and extract data by multiplying the receiving signal with an laser beam output from the laser module. |
| US09319137B2 |
Methods and systems for reduced complexity nonlinear compensation
Aspects of the present invention provide techniques for compensating nonlinear impairments of a signal traversing an optical communications system. A parallel array of linear convolutional filters are configured to process a selected set of samples of the signal to generate an estimate of a nonlinear interference field. The predetermined set of samples comprises a first sample and a plurality of second samples. A processor applies the estimated nonlinear interference field to the first sample to least partially compensate the nonlinear impairment. |
| US09319136B2 |
Optical dispersion compensation devices
Optical dispersion compensation devices are provided herein that are based on one or more optical ring resonators. The degree of dispersion compensation can be selected by controlling the degree of under-coupling and by tuning physical properties of the optical ring resonators. In a first implementation, an optical ring resonator under-coupled to an optical throughput bus can be used to provide positive or negative dispersion compensation depending on tuning of the optical ring resonator, which widens the dispersion window. In a second implementation, an over-coupled optical ring resonator can be added to the optical throughput bus to provide a cascaded filter. In a third implementation optical ring resonators arranged in series between an optical input bus and an optical output bus can be used to both tune dispersion compensation and provide demultiplexing. |
| US09319135B2 |
Light powered communication systems and methods of using the same
A light powered communications system. The light powered communications system includes an audio control center having at least one optical source and at least one optical receiver. The light powered communications system also includes a plurality of optically powered remote communication systems located remote from the audio control center, each of the optically powered remote communication systems being configured to receive an optical signal from the audio control center. The light powered communication system also includes at least one length of fiber optic cable between the audio control center and each of the optically powered remote communication systems. |
| US09319134B2 |
Method and device for optically transmitting data
In a method for optically transmitting data by means of a pulse-width-modulated light source (LED), a pulse duty factor (N) of a pulse width modulation is specified to set the brightness of the light source (LED). A bright time (T) is divided into at least a first and second partial bright time using at least one blanking so that the data (DATA) to be transmitted are encoded by the start and time length of the at least one blanking. The sum of the partial bright times within the pulse width modulation cycle substantially corresponds to the bright time according to the specified pulse duty factor. |
| US09319132B2 |
Optical transmission system, node apparatus, and reachability determination method
A node apparatus is installed at a node located on a route from a start node to an end node, and includes: a parameter calculating unit configured to, upon receiving routing information specifying the route and a first parameter representing an amount of signal degradation, update the first parameter by using a second parameter representing an amount of signal degradation along a transmission route to an adjacent node, and generate a third parameter representing an amount of signal degradation along a transmission route between the start node and the node, specified by the routing information; and a determination unit configured to determine reachability of the route specified by the routing information in accordance with the third parameter and a fourth parameter representing an amount of signal degradation along a transmission route from the node to the end node specified by the routing information. |
| US09319127B2 |
Method of relay between devices
A data relay method includes receiving a relay request from a BS, and when the relay request is accepted, relaying data between the BS and at least one external terminal, or the data relay method includes determining relaying between a first terminal among a plurality of terminals, and other remaining terminals excluding the first terminal among the plurality of terminals, and relaying data between the first terminal and the other remaining terminals. |
| US09319126B2 |
Wireless relay device and method of processing data using the same
A wireless relay device and a method of processing data using the same are provided. The wireless relay device includes a voice input/output (I/O) unit, a voice processing unit, an information protection processing unit, a Wi-Fi unit, and a radio transmission and reception unit. The voice I/O unit receives or outputs a user voice signal. The voice processing unit performs voice processing on the user voice signal. The information protection processing unit encrypts or decrypts voice data using an information protection algorithm. The Wi-Fi unit sends the encrypted voice data to a portable device of a user located within a set range, or receives encrypted voice data from a portable device of a user located within the set range. The radio transmission and reception unit relays wireless communication to a portable device of a user located outside the set range. |
| US09319124B2 |
Apparatus and method for supporting multi-antenna transmission in beamformed wireless communication system
An apparatus and method for supporting diversity in a beamformed wireless communication system. A method for transmitting a signal in a transmit end includes determining Receive (Rx) beamforming capability information of a receive end, receiving channel information on at least one Transmit (Tx) beam pattern from the receive end, determining at least one Tx beam pattern for transmitting a signal to the receive end, in consideration of Rx beamforming support information of the receive end and the channel information on the at least one Tx beam pattern, and transmitting a signal to the receive end using the at least one Tx beam pattern for transmitting the signal to the receive end. |