| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09566675B2 |
Method and device to remove pipe
A pipe removal method includes navigating a flexible element through a first pipe. At least a portion of the flexible element is coupled with the first pipe. The flexible element and the first pipe are pulled as a composite assembly, and the flexible element reinforces the tensile strength of the first pipe. In one example, the first pipe is at least pulled in compression between the point of coupling between the flexible element and the first pipe and a proximal end of the flexile element. In another example, the method includes wrapping the composite assembly around a spool. The composite assembly is thereby removed from the ground surrounding the first pipe. |
| US09566669B2 |
Tip fabrication for rotor blade or stator vane airfoil
A method comprises identifying an engine-run tip position for an airfoil having a tip section and a root section. The engine-run tip position is displaced and rotated with respect to a nominal position, as defined with respect to the root section before engine running. A airfoil tip is formed on the airfoil, and a machining datum is defined adjacent the airfoil tip. The tip section is translated and rotated to locate the airfoil tip in the nominal position, without respect to a location of the root section. The tip section is restored to a nominal profile by machining the airfoil tip along a machining path defined with respect to the machining datum, wherein the machining path is independent of the displacement and rotation of the engine-run tip position and independent of the position of the root section. |
| US09566661B2 |
Friction stir welding method
The invention aims at providing a friction stir welding method which can achieve joining a butting portion to a deep location therein by reducing the load on the friction stirring device. The friction stir welding method for joining two metal members (1) using a primary joining rotary tool (F) with a stirring pin (F2) includes a primary joining process in which a rotating stirring pin (F2) is moved to the butting portion formed by butting the metal members (1) against each other and friction stir welding is carried out. In the primary joining process, only the stirring pin (F2) is brought into contact with the metal members (1). |
| US09566659B2 |
Chamber with low turbulence argon purging system
Apparatus and method for purging atmospheric air from a chamber with a gas including means for generating a substantially non-turbulent, laminar flow front of the gas into the chamber with minimal turbulence to displace the atmospheric air in the chamber, the chamber having exhaust means associated therewith to permit the displaced atmospheric air to exit the chamber. The chamber is preferably a welding chamber and the gas is preferably argon. |
| US09566658B1 |
Shielding gas mechanisms for arc welding systems
Shielding gas mechanisms for arc welding systems are shown and described. The shielding gas mechanisms each include a gas sensor configured to read and provide a measurement of the shielding gas and a shut-off mechanism configured to stop power to a welding gun when the measurement of the shielding gas falls below a minimum effective level. In some examples, the gas sensor is coupled to the gas line proximal to an inlet of a wire feed unit. In some other examples, the gas sensor is coupled to the gas line proximal to an outlet of the wire feed unit. In even other examples, the gas sensor is coupled to the welding gun. |
| US09566655B2 |
Impeller brazing method
The present invention relates to an impeller manufacturing method in which a thermal cycle is performed on an assembly body with a brazing material formed of a Ni-containing Au alloy being placed at a bond portion of at least two impeller constituent members. The thermal cycle includes a temperature increasing process with a temperature increasing rate of 20° C./hr. to 100° C./hr., the process including a first intermediate retention and a second intermediate retention each keeping the temperature, the first intermediate retention performed in a temperature range of 500° C. to 850° C. and the second intermediate retention performed in a temperature range of 850° C. to 950° C. (but not including 850° C.). In the thermal cycle, the temperature is increased in a temperature range exceeding 950° C. after the second intermediate retention at a rate lower than that before the second intermediate retention. |
| US09566653B2 |
Pipe slitter
A pipe expander assembly for replacing an existing pipe with a new pipe. The expander assembly has a slitter disposed about a wire rope and abutting an expander at a spherical joint. The expander comprises a cone to expand a slit pipe and is internally connected to the wire rope by jaws that expand and contract about the wire rope due to threading of a jam nut into the cone. A pipe puller is connected to the back of the expander at a clevis and is adapted for connection to a new pipe, either through a jaw system, an adaptor, or fusion to the pipe. |
| US09566652B2 |
Cordless clamping handle tubing cutter tool
A hand tool for cutting tubular workpieces such as copper tubing used for plumbing includes a rotary cutting head which has a slot for receiving a length of tubing to be cut, a gear drive mechanism for rotating the cutting head, and a clamping handle which supports the gear drive mechanism, which is rotatably driven by a battery powered electric motor. to thus rotate the cutting head to sever a length of tubing. The clamping handle includes a pair of longitudinally disposed, generally semi-cylindrically-shaped handle shells which are pivotable apart from one another to receive a length of tubing to be cut, and pivotable to a closed position and compressed in the palm of a workman's hand to press against and clamp the tool to a length of tubing being cut. |
| US09566640B1 |
Nut riveter
The present invention discloses a nut riveter comprising a front riveter seat with a cavity, a rear riveter seat arranged in the cavity of the front riveter seat and located at a rear end of the front riveter seat, a nut adjusting mechanism arranged at a front end of the front riveter seat, a nut riveting rod installed in the nut adjusting mechanism, wherein two sides of the rear riveter seat are each connected to a handle through a connecting rod; a pull rod seat located in the cavity of the front riveter seat, wherein a pull rod is inserted into the pull rod seat, wherein a rear end of the pull rod is connected with a pull rod retractable mechanism. |
| US09566638B2 |
Deep rolling tool with force adjustment
A device and methods are provided for deep rolling. In one embodiment, a deep rolling tool for applying compressive stress with rolling elements includes a flexible fork having a base section and a plurality of fork arms and a plurality of rolling elements, wherein each rolling element is mounted to a fork arm with eccentric roller bushings, wherein each rolling element is mounted at the distal end of a fork arm, and wherein the rolling elements are configured to apply a compressive stress to articles received by the deep rolling tool. |
| US09566637B2 |
Method and apparatus for production of helical springs by spring winding
A method of producing helical springs by spring winding with a numerically controlled spring winding machine includes feeding a wire, controlled by an NC control program, through a feed device to a forming device of the spring winding machine, forming a helical spring from the wire with tools of the forming device, defining a desired nominal geometry of the helical spring and an NC control program adapted to produce the nominal geometry, measuring an actual position of a selected structural element of the helical spring relative to a reference element at least one measurement time, which occurs after a start and before an end of production of the helical spring in a measurement area which is at a finite distance from the forming device in a longitudinal direction of the helical spring, wherein the distance is less than an overall length of the finished helical spring, comparing the actual position with a nominal position of the structural element for the measurement time to determine a current position difference, which represents a difference between an actual position and the nominal position at the measurement time, and controlling the position by at least one of the tools of the forming device, which tool determines a pitch of the helical spring as a function of the position difference. |
| US09566634B2 |
Can end produced from downgauged blank
A can end for a two-piece beverage container has a curl positioned about a longitudinal axis which defines an outer perimeter of the can end. A circumferential wall angles downwardly and radially inwardly relative to a radially inner portion of the curl. A strengthening member extends radially inwardly relative to the circumferential wall. A center panel extends radially outwardly from the longitudinal axis towards the strengthening member and has a diameter greater than 87.7% of an overall diameter of the can end. A frangible score and a hinge portion define an openable tear panel in the center panel. A stay-on tab is attached to the center panel and has a nose portion overlying the tear panel opposite a lift end of the tab. |
| US09566632B1 |
Shaping tool die
A shaping tool die for shaping components from sheet material includes two matching shaping tool die halves, each shaping tool die half having a plurality of spaced plate die shapes, each die shape having a rotatable curved surface mated with a curved recess in the free end of a base mounting plate such that each plate die shape is separately adjustable relative to a mated mounting plate. A position fixing plate is associated with each plate die shape and base mounting plate combination to adjustably fix the position of the plate die shape relative to the base mounting plate in a desired position. A base member is provided for receiving the base mounting plates for each tool die half, and at least one clamp plate member threaded through corresponding base mounting plates of each die half and removably fixed to a corresponding base member is provided to fix the base mounting plates in place. |
| US09566623B2 |
Low maintenance nozzle mixer unit for roll nip lubrication
A device for lubricating the cylinders of a roll stand, in particular for roll nip lubrication in a roll stand for strip-shaped rolling stock. A mixture of water and oil is produced by a mixing and spraying device (1). The mixture is sprayed onto at least one of the cylinders (2) of the roll stand and/or to the surface of the rolling stock (3). The mixing and spraying device (1) include an arrangement of several nozzle mixer units (4). Water is guided thereto by a first supply line (5) and oil is guided thereto by a second supply line (6). |
| US09566611B2 |
Method for treating the surface of objects
In a method for treating the surface of objects, in particular vehicle bodies, the object is provided with a functional pattern by means of a coating process. |
| US09566601B2 |
Method and doctor blade device for spreading a resin paste onto a carrier film, and a resin sheet installation for producing resin sheets
A method for spreading a resin paste onto a carrier film includes feeding resin paste into a doctor blade unit having a doctor blade, using a feed device that includes a discharge opening through which the resin paste is fed from the feed device into the doctor blade unit, moving a carrier film on a base surface through a doctor blade gap that is formed between the doctor blade and the base surface, and spreading the resin paste onto the carrier film using the doctor blade. The discharge opening is positioned to be immersed into the resin paste that is in the doctor blade unit during operation of a doctor blade apparatus configured to perform the method. A resin mat installation for producing resin mats, particularly of SMC, includes at least one doctor blade apparatus as described above. |
| US09566599B2 |
Self-cleaning spray valve assembly
Systems and methods for producing consistent spray patterns and for diminishing clogging experienced when applying spray adhesive from a spray gun are provided. One system includes an automatic non-atomizing spray valve operably coupled to a first and second flow valve. The spray and flow valves are electronically controlled using logic running on a processing unit. The logic is programmed to carry out a spray cycle that involves dispensing a first liquid from the spray valve (first phase) and then dispensing a second liquid through the same spray valve (second phase). Because the first liquid (e.g., water-based adhesive) has the potential to clog a nozzle of the spray valve, a short burst of the second liquid (e.g., cleaning fluid) is introduced to prevent the nozzle from clogging. The spray valve is configured as a pulse width modulated spray gun to further reduce clogging and to generate an evenly distributed spray pattern. |
| US09566598B2 |
Substrate processing apparatus and substrate processing method
One processing block is arranged between an indexer block and another processing block. One substrate is transported to a main transport mechanism in the one processing block by a main transport mechanism in the indexer block, transported to a first processing section and a thermal processing section by the main transport mechanism in the one processing block and processing is performed on the substrate. The substrate after the processing is transported to the main transport mechanism in the indexer block by the main transport mechanism in the one processing block. Another substrate is transported to a sub-transport mechanism in a sub-transport chamber by the main transport mechanism in the indexer block, and is transported to a main transport mechanism in another processing block by the sub-transport mechanism in the sub-transport chamber. The substrate is transported to the sub-transport mechanism in the sub-transport chamber by the main transport mechanism in another processing block, and is transported to the main transport mechanism in the indexer block by the sub-transport mechanism in the sub-transport chamber. |
| US09566590B2 |
Amine and diamine compounds and their use for inverse froth flotation of silicate from iron ore
The invention relates to a process for enriching an iron mineral from a silicate containing iron ore by inverse flotation comprising the addition of a collector or collector composition comprising at least one of the compounds of formulae RO—X—NH2 (Ia); RO—X—NH3+Y− (Ib); RO—X—NH—Z—NH2 (IIa); and RO—X—NH—Z—NH3+Y− (IIb), in which X is a linear or branched aliphatic alkylene group containing 2 to 6 carbon atoms; Z is a linear or branched aliphatic alkylene group containing 2 to 6 carbon atoms; Y− is an anion; and R is an aliphatic group of the formula (I) C5H11CH(C3H7)CH2— (I) wherein the C5H11 moeity of the aliphatic group of the formula (I) comprises 70 to 99% by weight n-C5H11—, and 1 to 30% by weight C2H5CH(CH3)CH2— and/or CH3CH(CH3)CH2CH2—. RO—X—NH2 (Ia) RO—X—NH3+Y− (Ib) RO—X—NH—Z—NH2 (IIa) RO—X—NH—Z—NH3+Y− (IIb) C5H11CH(C3H7)CH2— (I) |
| US09566589B2 |
Collectors
Collectors for froth flotation including oxidized fatty acid compositions and oxidized and maleated compositions. In particular, use of oxidized tall oil compositions and oxidized and maleated fatty acid compositions are disclosed. |
| US09566577B1 |
Catalytic hydrogenation using complexes of base metals with tridentate ligands
Complexes of cobalt and nickel with tridentate ligand PNHPR are effective for hydrogenation of unsaturated compounds. Cobalt complex [(PNHPCy)Co(CH2SiMe3)]BArF4 (PNHPCy=bis[2-(dicyclohexylphosphino)ethyl]amine, BArF4=B(3,5-(CF3)2C6H3)4)) was prepared and used with hydrogen for hydrogenation of alkenes, aldehydes, ketones, and imines under mild conditions (25-60° C., 1-4 atm H2). Nickel complex [(PNHPCy)Ni(H)]BPh4 was used for hydrogenation of styrene and 1-octene under mild conditions. (PNPCy)Ni(H) was used for hydrogenating alkenes. |
| US09566575B2 |
Activated carbon with a special finishing, production and use thereof
The invention relates to a method for producing activated carbon provided and/or impregnated with a metal-organic framework substance (MOF material), the activated carbon being in particular in the form of discrete activated carbon particles, and preferably for producing an activated carbon with a reactive and/or catalytic action. The metal-organic framework substance is produced in situ in the pores and/or in the pore system of the activated carbon, starting from at least one metal precursor compound (MP) containing a metal and at least one ligand precursor (LP). |
| US09566573B2 |
Exhaust gas purifying catalyst, method for producing same, and exhaust gas purification method using same
An exhaust gas purify catalyst includes a substrate (1), an oxidation catalyst layer (2) formed on the substrate (1) and containing zeolite and at least one catalytic metal, an LNT layer (3) formed on the oxidation catalyst layer (2) and containing an NOx storage material and at least one catalytic metal, and an NOx reduction layer (4) formed on the LNT layer (3) and containing Rh acting as a catalytic metal and at least one of alumina or zirconia, wherein the NOx reduction layer (4) has a larger content of Rh than that in each of the oxidation catalyst layer (2) and the LNT layer (3). |
| US09566568B2 |
Catalyst design for heavy-duty diesel combustion engines
Disclosed are washcoats, coated substrates formed from such washcoats, and catalytic converters for use in diesel applications, such as heavy duty diesel applications. Methods of preparing the coated substrates are also disclosed. |
| US09566567B2 |
Metal-carbon composite supported catalyst for hydrogen production using co-evaporation and method of preparing the same
A metal-carbon composite supported catalyst for hydrogen production using co-evaporation and a method of preparing the same, wherein the catalyst is configured such that a metal-carbon composite having a core-shell structure resulting from co-evaporation is supported on the surface of an oxide-based support coated with carbon, thereby maintaining superior durability without agglomeration even in a catalytic reaction at a high temperature. Because part or all of the surface of metal is covered with the carbon shell, even when the catalyst is applied under severe reaction conditions including high temperatures, long periods of time, acidic or alkaline states, etc., the metal particles do not agglomerate or are not detached, and do not corrode, thus exhibiting high performance and high durability. Therefore, inactivation of the catalyst or the generation of side reactions can be prevented, so that the catalyst can be efficiently utilized in hydrogen production. |
| US09566562B1 |
High-temperature open-cell porous ceramic
A high-temperature open-cell porous body, the body comprises crystalline inorganic particles and 0.5 to 3-weight percent glass. The crystalline inorganic particles are bonded together by the glass to form a matrix with interconnected pores having a porosity of greater than 20-percent. The crystalline inorganic particles may further include interconnected micro pores, the latter combination providing a matrix with both macro porosity and micro porosity. |
| US09566561B2 |
Reactor having electroluminescent particles in the reaction medium
The invention teaches the use of particles (7) capable of light emission in chemical, biochemical, and/or biological reactors (1), wherein the reactor (1) comprises at least one emission element (4) for emitting electromagnetic alternating fields in a reaction chamber (5) of the reactor (1), wherein the particles (7) capable of light emission are suspended in a fluid reaction medium present in the reaction chamber (5), wherein the reaction medium contains photoreactants (6), and wherein the particles (7) capable of light emission are excited by means of supply of energy to the emission element (4), in a wireless manner, to emit light that activates the photoreactants (6), a photoreactor (1) and the uses thereof. |
| US09566559B2 |
Fluid distribution device and method for multibed reactors
A fluid distribution device is presented for the collection and distribution of fluid between reactor beds. According to various aspects, the device includes a collection tray, a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the collection tray, a rough distribution tray in fluid communication with the mixing chamber, and a fine distribution tray in fluid communication with the rough distribution tray. The rough distribution tray includes a vapor chimney. |
| US09566556B2 |
Adjustable venturi fluid mixing method
A method of mixing two fluids uses three open-ended tubular sections assembled to define a mixing valve. An axial relationship between two of the tubular sections is defined by the third tubular section. A first fluid is introduced into an annular channel defined by the tubular sections. A flow of a second fluid is introduced along a flow path through the tubular sections. The first fluid is drawn into the flow of the second fluid via holes linking the annular channel to the flow path. |
| US09566555B2 |
Self-pressurization gas-liquid mixing device used for making beverage
A self-pressurization gas-liquid mixing device used for making a beverage is provided. The self-pressurization gas-liquid mixing device includes a container, a liquid inlet pipe configured to allow liquid to enter the container, a gas inlet pipe configured to allow gas to enter the container, and a liquid discharging pipe configured to discharge the liquid; a partition plate is arranged in the container to divide the container into a premixing chamber and a mixing chamber, the premixing chamber is arranged at the side of the liquid inlet pipe and the gas inlet pipe, the partition plate is provided with a plurality of premixing through holes, a mixing layer is further arranged between the mixing chamber and the liquid discharging pipe and includes a plurality of miniature pipes, and whisker holes which are opened and closed in one direction are formed in pipe walls of the miniature pipes. |
| US09566554B2 |
Adjustable pulsed gas agitator
The present invention provides an adjustable pulsed gas agitator including a gas accumulation chamber with a gas discharge pipe, a gas supply unit, and an adjustable gas discharge unit. The adjustable gas discharge unit has an elongatable gas pipe slidably disposed over the lower part of the gas discharge pipe, and a gas cap disposed underneath the elongatable gas pipe; so that when the adjustable gas discharge unit is moved upward or downward, the volume of the stirring gas accumulated within the gas accumulation chamber is decreased or increased; thereby the frequency and strength of the discharged pulsed gas flows is varied. |
| US09566547B2 |
Method for the treatment of exhaust gases containing organosilicon components or accompanying substances, and apparatus therefor
The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for treating exhaust gases comprising organosilicon components or accompanying substances. The invention more specifically relates to the use of bulk regenerator materials as storage materials allowing periodic removal, purification, and redelivery to the system. The invention solves the problem of clogged regenerator-storage materials during regenerative post-combustion of exhaust gases containing organosilicon components. |
| US09566546B2 |
Sour gas combustion using in-situ oxygen production and chemical looping combustion
A chemical looping combustion (CLC) process for sour gas combustion includes a number of reaction zones and is configured to provide in-situ oxygen production and in-situ removal of SO2 from a product gas stream by reacting the SO2 with a calcium-based sorbent at a location within one reaction zone. The CLC process is also configured such that the in-situ oxygen production results from the use of a metal oxide oxygen carrier which is purposely located such that it does not directly contact the sour gas, thereby eliminating the generation of undesirable sulfur-based metal oxides. |
| US09566545B2 |
Efficient use of adsorbents for indoor air scrubbing
Some embodiments of the disclosure correspond to, for example, a method for controlling a scrubber containing an adsorbent. The scrubber may be configured to cycle between scrubbing at least one pollutant/gas from a stream of gases with the pollutant/gas being adsorbed onto the adsorbent, and regenerating at least some of the adsorbent and thereby purging at least some of the one pollutant and/or first gas from the adsorbent via a regeneration gas flow. The method may include flowing a stream of gases through the scrubber, the scrubber including the adsorbent and adsorbing at least some of the one pollutant/gas from the stream of gases onto the adsorbent during an adsorption phase over a first time period. The method may also include purging at least a portion of the one pollutant/gas from the adsorbent during a regeneration phase over a second time period with a regeneration gas flow, and cycling therebetween. |
| US09566539B2 |
CO2 desorption without stripper
A CO2 desorption method and equipment for performing this method is described. More specific, a method for desorbing CO2 from an absorption fluid without involving a traditional stripper but instead using a heat exchanger as a flash-tank is disclosed. Further described is the utilization of cooling heat from a condenser for cooling the lean absorbent fluid. |
| US09566537B2 |
Multidimensional liquid chromatography separation system and separation method for protein separation
A multidimensional liquid chromatography separation system has a mobile-phase storage tank, a first liquid transfer device, a second liquid transfer device, a first sample introduction device, a second sample introduction device, a separation device, a collection, storage device, at least two drainage devices and a flow path switching device. A separation method for protein separation using the multidimensional liquid chromatography separation system has the steps of: 1) preparation in advance, 2) the first dimensional separation, 3) collection and storage of the intermediate fraction, 4) the second dimensional or multidimensional separation and repeating the steps 3) and 4). |
| US09566536B2 |
Variable length oxer and method of using same
The system and method of training an animal to jump using a variable length oxer. The oxer having one or more jump cups located on an adjustable length arm to provide for a jump of varying depth and/or height. The oxer mounts to a standard using a variety of mechanisms. The mount may comprise a jump cup. The oxer may comprise a counterweight and/or a support leg. |
| US09566534B1 |
User interface
A user interface system for a toy includes a power drive unit, an encoder and a processor coupled with the power drive unit and with the encoder. The power drive unit actuates a drive element of the toy according to moving instructions received from the processor. The encoder detects motion of the drive element, and the processor sets a mode of operation of the toy according to the motion of the selected drive element and the moving instructions. |
| US09566533B2 |
Toy component group and toy vehicle
A toy vehicle including a chassis, four running wheels, which are attached to the chassis, an activating element configured to steer the toy vehicle, and a steering device. The steering device includes a steering plate articulated onto all four running wheels. The steering plate is movable by the steering activating element relative to the chassis. The vehicle also includes four axle knuckles, each axle knuckle supporting one of the four running wheels, thee axle knuckles being articulated both onto the steering plate and also the chassis. The steering plate has a central portion extending along a longitudinal axis of the vehicle, and four cross-arms extending outwardly from the central portion, each of the cross-arms connecting to a respective one of the four axle knuckles. |
| US09566531B2 |
Action character models and accessories with movable parts
An action character model includes a torso and a plurality of appendages including a head and at least one arm and one leg. A plurality of first magnets are attached to and project out of one of the torso or the plurality of appendages. A plurality of second magnets are disposed within the other of the torso or the plurality of appendages on which the first magnets are not attached. The other of the torso or plurality of appendages each bound a recessed socket extending from an exterior surface of the corresponding torso or appendage toward a corresponding one of the second magnets, each of the first magnets being at least partially received within a corresponding recessed socket so that each appendage is magnetically coupled with the torso and so that each appendage is rotatable on the torso. |
| US09566530B2 |
Natural looking puppet device
The attachment between a puppeteer and a puppet is often ridged and fixed. The result is a puppet that does not look natural in some positions and movements and does not allow the puppeteer the flexibility to change articles, such as costumes or clothing, which are attached to the puppet. Methods and articles are described for creating natural looking puppet devices. These methods and devices allow illusion articles, such as a fake arm, to slide so as to have natural looking contact between the puppeteer and the puppet. The methods and articles also include means for reversible attachment of the puppet from the rest of the puppet device. The result is a puppet that has natural looking positions and movements and allows puppeteer the flexibility to make changes to the articles attached to the puppet. |
| US09566527B2 |
Rolling vehicle track
A method of fabricating an amusement park ride track utilizing stock, planar materials, namely comprising of creating elongated, curved structures from planar materials. A roller coaster track capable of being fabricated from multiple planar pieces without heating or bending. Other embodiments are described which utilize elongated, curved structures such as ski lifts, people movers, staircases and architectural structures. A jig is disclosed for providing for ease of manufacture of the elongated, curved structures. |
| US09566522B2 |
Device, method, and computer program product for customizing game functionality using images
A gaming device, method, and computer program product customize an electronic game using features of an image file, such as may be created by a digital camera or similar device. A gaming device comprises a processor capable of receiving an image file, extracting at least one feature from the received image file, and modifying the electronic game based on the extracted feature. The processor may modify the electronic game by adding a game object corresponding to the extracted feature. Alternatively, the processor may modify the electronic game by modifying a game object based on the extracted feature. The image file may be created by the gaming device or may be received from an external device. The extracted feature may be selected from the group comprising shape, size, location, orientation, color, and contrast. The processor may be further capable of preprocessing the image file. |
| US09566520B2 |
Method, system, and program product for a recreational game
As one implementation example, an application comprising a recreational game performs a method comprising displaying at least a portion of a recreational object. The recreational object comprises a central portion comprising a center and a plurality of arm members in which the arm members are joined to the central portion and balanced about the center, the arm members each comprising a channel for enabling air passage through the arm members and into the central portion in which the air passage affects a flight speed and a rotational speed of the recreational object passing through air. The method further comprises receiving input from an application user, the input operable to manipulate the recreational object to achieve a goal of the recreational game. |
| US09566511B2 |
Center device
A center device communicates with one or more controller devices operated by one or more users. The center device is operable to: execute at least one application program; detect a respective connection with each of the one or more controller devices and to select one of the one or more controller devices for authentication; query the user of the selected one of the controller devices for requested authentication information; receive, from the selected one of the controller devices, authentication information provided by the user of the selected one of the controller devices; and permit the execution and manipulation of the output of the application program only when the authentication information provided by the user, and received from, the selected one of the controller devices matches the requested authentication information. |
| US09566510B2 |
Game system with interactive show control
An interactive game system that stage lighting style cues as part of the game, where the stage lighting cues cause external stage lighting equipment to create effects that are based on outputs from the game. Steerable lights can be steered to the player and sounds can be created that are directed to the player. A simulation system can also simulate the actions that occur. The computer assigns teams. |
| US09566509B2 |
Adaptive rendered environments using user context
There is provided a system and method for adaptive rendered environments using user context. The method comprises determining user context data corresponding to a user of a virtual environment, altering a feature of the virtual environment using the user context data to obtain an altered feature, and rendering the altered feature of the virtual environment for display. The feature may include a non-player character in the virtual environment, such as eyesight focus of the non-player character or a physical action of the non-player character. The user context data may correspond to real world position data of a user and may be determined using a camera, for example through image recognition, or using a user device. Additionally, the virtual environment may include a cinematic, interactive game, or user generated content. |
| US09566508B2 |
Interactive gaming apparatus using an image projected onto a flexible mat
A disclosed interactive gaming apparatus may include a flexible mat structure. The flexible mat structure may have at least one sensor module placed therein. The gaming apparatus may also include a main body having a computation module with gaming software installed therein. When the human operator motions, the sensor module may detect such motions along with data arising out of contact by the human operator on the flexible mat structure and deliver the same to the computation module. The computation module may compute the detected and enable a projector module to project an output image upon a surface of the flexible mat structure. |
| US09566505B2 |
Systems and methods for generating and sharing video clips of cloud-provisioned games
Systems and methods for managing sharing of mini-games over a game cloud system include receiving a request to play a first game executed by the game cloud system, from a first user. The first user is enabled to play the first game, in response to the request, and a recorded video of the game play of the first user is generated. A share request is received from the first user to share the recorded video of the game play. The share request includes a location indicator identifying a location within the recorded video. A video clip is generated from the recorded video of the game play of the first user by including a portion of the recorded video defined in relation to the location indicator identified in the share request. The video clip is shared with one or more users based on information provided in the share request. |
| US09566502B2 |
Baseball game board
A baseball game board includes: a top plate; a pitching section including a ball container section and a discharge hole; a batting section; a pitching operation section; and a pitching lever extending from the pitching operation section to the pitching section and movable in forward and rearward directions. The pitching lever is disposed below the top plate, is rotatable in a left-right direction around a position between the pitching operation section and the pitching section, and includes a ball holding section provided at a front end of the pitching lever for receiving a ball dropping from the ball container section. When the pitching lever is moved forward, the ball held in the ball holding section and positioned below the top plate is delivered from the discharge hole to an upper surface of the top plate, thereby being discharged toward the batting section. |
| US09566499B2 |
Binding strap assist mechanism with a torsion spring
A binding strap assist mechanism. The binding strap assist mechanism can be retrofit onto standard snowboard binding straps to bias the binding straps and an open configuration. Binding straps pass through the binding strap assist mechanism so that tensile stress along the length of each of these binding straps during use is not significantly conveyed to the binding straps assist mechanism. The tensile stress are thus isolated to the binding straps which are intended to carry such stresses. The present invention provides a safe and convenient feature to snowboard bindings and other bindings. Safety is achieved because even if the binding strap assist mechanism breaks or fails to function, the binding straps will continue to function as normal. |
| US09566496B1 |
Racquet grip teaching device
A racquet grip teaching device including a top clasp having five faces shaped and orientated to mate with a tennis racquet handle. The top clasp includes exactly five faces. The racquet grip teaching device includes a finger connector extending downwardly from the top clasp at a first end region of the top clasp. The device includes a finger guide disposed at an end of the finger connector, opposite of the top clasp, and shaped to receive a finger. The racquet grip teaching device includes a thumb connector extending downwardly from the top clasp at a second end region, opposite of the first end region. The teaching device includes a thumb guide disposed at an end of the thumb connector, opposite the top clasp, and shaped to receive a thumb. |
| US09566495B2 |
Systems and methods for measuring and/or analyzing swing information
In a first aspect, a system for monitoring a swing is provided that includes a wireless device adapted to couple to a swinging object and to provide information indicative of a characteristic of the swinging object. The wireless device is a cellular telephone or personal digital assistant (PDA). Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US09566493B2 |
Housing-type golf-simulation apparatus
A housing type golf simulation apparatus and features the housing that the internal space is available having front, rear, upper and left/right side; monitor installation section which is provided backward in the rear side direction from the said front housing so that the monitor can be seated in the said front housing; golf simulation computer which is provided in the said internal space; and the monitor to be seated in the said monitor installation section. Thus, it is advantageous to implement various additional functions in the housing while installing, managing and moving the entire golf simulation apparatus in an integrated module. |
| US09566489B2 |
Detection unit for detecting the occurrence of an event a detection system and a method for controlling such a detection unit or detection system
The present invention relates to a detection unit comprising detection means for detecting the occurrence of an event. The detection unit further comprises processing means for controlling the operation of the detection unit and communication means for transmitting and receiving activation signals for interacting with further detection units. The processing means are designed for placing the detection unit into active mode upon receipt of an incoming activation signal, and furthermore for transmitting, in the active mode, an outgoing activation signal to at least one of said further detection units upon detection of an event and placing the detection unit into passive mode. The invention further relates to a detection system comprising a multitude of detection units as described and to a method for controlling a detection unit. |
| US09566487B2 |
Golf club overgrip
An overgrip for a golf club is provided that includes a shell defining an interior and an open end, with a soft material disposed within the interior of the shell and capable of conforming to the shape of a club inserted into the interior through the at least one open end to engage the club. The shell can be formed with a pair of halves joined by a hinge to assist in the positioning of the club within the overgrip and can additionally include a locking mechanism to selectively hold the shell in engagement with the club positioned therein. |
| US09566483B2 |
Golf club head with undercut
A golf club head having a translucent insert disclosed. The club head includes a body defining a striking face, a top line, a sole, a back, a heel, and a toe. The back contains a cavity that extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the face. A recess is provided within the cavity, with the recess extending away from the cavity and toward the sole. The recess causes more of the club head mass to be oriented towards the perimeter of the club head, and optionally also toward the back of the club head. This enlarges the club sweet spot and increases the moment of inertia, and facilitates imparting a desired flight path to a struck golf ball, producing a more forgiving club. The recess may have a varying depth and/or a varying draft angle. A rear wall of the recess may be provided with a cutout to further reposition mass toward the club head perimeter. A translucent insert, such as a vibration dampening member, may be provided within the recess. The insert may contain secondary inserts, such as weight members, therein in strategic locations. The insert may completely fill the recess, or may fill only a portion thereof. |
| US09566482B2 |
Golf club head
A high forgiveness wood-type golf club head comprises a body and a face. The body comprises a sole that forms a bottom portion of the golf club head, a crown that forms a top portion of the golf club head and a skirt that forms a periphery of the golf club head between the sole and the crown. The face place is positioned at a front portion of the golf club head opposite a rear portion of the golf club head. The body defines an outer periphery having a generally triangular shape in plan. |
| US09566479B2 |
Golf club head having sole stress reducing feature
A golf club head incorporating a stress reducing feature including at least one sole located stress reducing feature located at least partially on the sole. The location, curvature, and size of the sole stress reducing feature, and their relationship to one another, and other club head engineering variables, improve the performance of the club head. |
| US09566478B2 |
Golf club with non-metallic fasteners
A golf club with a golf club head having non-metallic fasteners is presented. The club head may include a face member, a body member, a sole member and a crown member. The various portions of the club head may be connected using mechanical fasteners, such as screws. In some arrangements, the screws may be formed of a non-metallic material, such as a composite material, in order to reduce weight associated with the club head. In some arrangements, a portion of the mechanical fasteners may be formed of a non-metallic material and may be placed in regions of the club head where reduced weight is desired, while another portion of the fasteners may be formed of metal or other heavier material and may be placed in regions where additional weight may be desired. |
| US09566476B2 |
Golf ball
An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball excellent in flying performance, in particular, to provide a golf ball traveling a great flight distance. The present invention provides a golf ball having a spherical core and at least one cover layer covering the spherical core, wherein the spherical core is formed from a rubber composition containing (a) a base rubber, (b) an α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and/or a metal salt thereof as a co-crosslinking agent, (c) a crosslinking initiator, and (d) a carboxylic acid, provided that the rubber composition further contains (e) a metal compound in the case of containing only (b) the α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms as the co-crosslinking agent. |
| US09566475B2 |
Golf ball having a thermoplastic positive hardness gradient inner core layer and a thermostat shallow positive hardness gradient outer core layer
A golf ball has an inner core layer including a thermoplastic highly-neutralized ionomer and having a geometric center hardness less than a surface hardness to define a first positive hardness gradient. An outer core layer is formed about the inner core and includes a homogenous thermoset composition. The outer core has an interior hardness less than an outer surface hardness to define a second positive hardness gradient. An inner and outer cover layers are disposed about outer core layer. The first and second hardness gradients each have a slope and the slope of the second hardness gradient is less than the slope of the first hardness gradient such that a ratio of the first and second slopes is 0.8 to 0.85. |
| US09566474B2 |
Golf ball with soft coating and hard cover
A golf ball has a cover with a Shore D hardness of at least about 59 and a coating on the cover that has at least one of (a) a pencil hardness of 2 B or less, (b) a Sward hardness of about 40 or less, or (c) a Hit (Young's Modulus)<20 N/mm2 and hmax>0.55 micrometer. |
| US09566473B2 |
Dimple patterns for golf balls
The present invention provides a golf ball wherein each hemisphere has a dimple pattern based on a pyramid having dissimilar sides. The resulting overall dimple pattern is not based on preexisting polyhedral, and is not attainable using conventional dimple packing methods. |
| US09566470B2 |
Leg stretcher
A leg stretching device includes a base frame, a support plate adjustably coupled to the base frame, a leg tube including a proximal end hingedly connected to the base frame and a distal end, a foot plate disposed at the distal end of the leg tube, and an actuation assembly including an actuation tube hingedly connected to the base frame and an actuation bar slidably disposed within the actuation tube and hingedly connected to the leg tube. The actuation assembly includes an actuator motor for moving the actuation bar relative to the actuation tube to reposition the leg tube relative to the base frame. |
| US09566458B2 |
Mounting device and fall protection system
A mounting device for mounting on a wall of an object comprises an at least substantially form-retaining base part (20) with at least one mounting member (10) and a substantially flexible flap (30), a distal part (32) of which extends substantially freely and laterally from the base part (20) and which is intended and adapted to be connected firmly to a surface of the wall of the object. The base part (20) comprises a form-retaining body which is formed integrally with a solid monolithic core, wherein a proximal part (31) of the flap (30) is incorporated at least substantially tightly in the core material of the body. |
| US09566456B2 |
Ultrasound transceiver and cooling thereof
An ultrasonic transceiver device for producing ultrasonic beams comprises a body vibratable at ultrasonic frequencies and an extensive surface for beam emanation, the device configured to produce an unfocused, or alternatively a focused, power beam for thermal tissue damage, the power beam being produced by vibration over the body of the transceiver and emanating from the extent of the surface, whereby the extensive surface becomes subject to convective cooling when immersed in a fluid by a chimney effect set up by said unfocused beam. |
| US09566455B2 |
Fluid circuits for temperature control in a thermal therapy system
A system and method for fluid control in a thermal therapy system is disclosed. A fluid circuit permits passage of a fluid through a fluid circuit, including into and out of a treatment zone so as to cool or heat or maintain a temperature in said treatment zone at or near a desired temperature. The temperature is sensed at a point in the circuit between a discharge of a fluid pump and the treatment zone. MRI based thermometry of tissue in the treatment zone is accomplished in some aspects. Furthermore, a desired temperature may be programmably set to a given value or within a band of values using a processor and a temperature controller. In some aspects, leakage of fluid from a patient or from the fluid control system is captured by a leak-proof member to protect imaging and treatment equipment from damage. |
| US09566454B2 |
Method and sysem for non-ablative acne treatment and prevention
A method and system for non-ablative acne treatment and prevention is disclosed. The method utilizes ultrasound energy which is targeted at a region of interest to treat existing acne and prevent future acne from forming. The application of ultrasound energy causes numerous physiological effects that treat acne. Some of these physiological effects comprise reducing sebum, increasing perfusion at the region of interest, denaturing proteins at the region of interest, creating an uninhabitable environment at the region of interest, initiating programmed cell death at the region of interest and the initiation of mechanical effects at the region of interest. |
| US09566451B2 |
Method and device for irradiation treatment planning
A method for irradiation treatment planning for a target volume to be irradiated includes specifying a plurality of data sets. The target volume to be irradiated is depicted in each data set of the plurality of data sets. The data sets differ in that the target volume has another position and/or shape. A data set is selected from the plurality of the data sets and other data sets are registered to the selected data set. The method includes forming an amalgamation of the depicted target volumes using the registrations of the other data sets to the selected data set, and determining an area at risk in the selected data set. The method includes modifying the amalgamation of the target volumes such that the area at risk is excluded from the amalgamation of the depicted target volumes. An irradiation treatment plan is calculated using the modified amalgamation of the target volumes. |
| US09566446B2 |
System and method for stimulating the heart via storage of multi-waveforms in a cardiac stimulation device
A rules engine acquires sensor data from sensors applied to the heart and determines whether an electrical waveform should be applied to the heart and, if so, the type of electrical waveform. A multi-phase cardiac stimulus generator generates waveforms in response to the rules engine from waveform data stored in a memory. The electrical waveform is applied to one or more electrodes implanted in or on the heart. |
| US09566441B2 |
Detecting posture sensor signal shift or drift in medical devices
In general, the disclosure relates to medical devices and systems for detecting the posture state of patient. For example, a medical system may detect a posture state of a patient and deliver therapy based at least in part on the detected patient posture state. In some examples, the system may comprise a posture sensor that generates posture sensor data when a patient is in a posture state, and a processor that receives the first posture sensor data, compares the first posture state data to reference posture sensor data, and detects the presence of at least one of sensor signal drift or sensor signal shift for the posture sensor based at least in part on the comparison. In some examples, the processor may be configured to determine one or more offset correction values to apply to posture sensor data generated by the posture sensor when the at least one of sensor signal drift or sensor signal shift is determined to be present. |
| US09566439B2 |
Neuro-stimulation
The invention is a distributed implantable neuro-stimulation system, comprising an implant controller including control logic to transmit two time-varying power signals, varying between two levels and out of phase with the other, and a command signal modulated onto at least one of the power signals. One or more electrode cells, each having control logic to extract charge from the power signals and recover commands from the command signal. A two-wire bus interconnecting the implant controller and all the electrode cells, to carry one of the time varying signals in each of the two wires, and to carry the command signal. |
| US09566435B2 |
Tinnitus fitting method in CI and ABI patients
A method is described for adjusting hearing implant operating parameters for electrode contacts in an implantable electrode array to minimize tinnitus in an implanted patient. A channel tinnitus masking stimulation level is measured for each electrode contact at which maximum tinnitus masking occurs, Ytin,n. A channel threshold stimulation level also is measured for each electrode contact that represents a lowest detectable stimulation level, Tmeas,n. And a channel maximum stimulation level is measured for each electrode contact that represents a maximum comfortable stimulation level, MCLmeas,n. Channel threshold stimulation level Tn and channel maximum stimulation level MCLn are then adjusted for each electrode contact as a function of the channel tinnitus masking stimulation level Ytin,n and tinnitus masking stimulation levels for adjacent electrode contacts, Ytin,adj. |
| US09566434B2 |
Electrical nerve stimulation based on channel specific sampling sequences
A method of activating at least two electrodes in a multichannel electrode array using channel specific sampling sequences is presented. A channel specific sampling sequence is defined for each electrode, the sequence having a particular duration, pulse amplitude distribution, and number of pulses. A weighting factor is applied to the channel specific sampling sequence. Each electrode in the multichannel electrode array is then simultaneously activated using sign-correlated pulses, the sign-correlated pulses based on parameters of spatial channel interaction reflecting geometric overlapping of electrical fields from each electrode, non-linear compression, and each electrode's weighted channel specific sampling sequence. |
| US09566433B2 |
Focused stimulation in a medical stimulation device
A medical stimulation device such as a cochlear implant configured to provide stimulation of one or more spatially-restricted contiguous portion(s) of the spiral array of auditory nerve fibers in the cochlear (“discrete stimulation regions”). Each discrete stimulation region is defined by the constructive and/or destructive interference of stimulating and limiting signals simultaneously applied to electrode channels of an implanted electrode array, the stimulating and limiting signals being determined based upon transimpedance measurements of intracochlear electrode channels of the implanted electrode array representing specific spread functions of an individual recipient. The stimulating signal is preferably applied through a targeted electrode channel; that is, one or more successive electrodes which is/are adjacent to the discrete stimulation region. The targeted electrode channel is selected to represent a sound based on the outputs of a sound processor to stimulate neural activity in the discrete stimulation region to thereby cause a percept of the represented sound. The size of the discrete stimulation region is defined by the limiting signal(s) applied to electrode channel(s) other than the targeted electrode channel, and which negate(s) current spread which would otherwise occur in response to the stimulating signal. |
| US09566429B2 |
Electromagnetically-countered display systems and methods
The present invention relates to an electromagnetically-countered display system including at least one wave source and at least one counter unit, where such a wave source irradiates harmful electromagnetic waves and the counter unit emits counter electromagnetic waves for countering the harmful waves therewith. More particularly, the present invention relates to various counter units for the electromagnetically-countered display system and to various mechanisms to counter the harmful waves with the counter units, e.g., by matching configurations of the counter units with those of the wave sources, by matching wavefronts of the harmful waves with those the counter waves, and so on. The present invention also relates to various methods of countering the harmful waves with such counter waves by source and/or wave matchings, various methods of providing the counter units for emitting the counter waves defining desired wave characteristics, and the like. The present invention further relates to various processes for providing the electromagnetically-countered display systems and their counter units. The present invention further relates to various electric and magnetic shields employed either alone or in conjunction with the counter units for minimizing irradiation of the harmful waves from the shaving system. |
| US09566427B2 |
Frame with a nosepiece and an electrode holder for an electrode for electrostimulation of the eye
A stimulation electrode arrangement for a device (10) for electrostimulation of the eye is described, the device (10) having a spectacles-like frame (11) with a nosepiece (12), an arrangement, connected to the nosepiece (12), for holding the frame (11) on the head of the patient, and at least one electrode holder (24, 25), arranged on the nosepiece (12) in adjustable fashion, for the wire-shaped stimulation electrode (26, 27). The stimulation electrode arrangement comprises an electrode carrier, which can be attached to the electrode holder (24, 25) in detachable fashion and on which the stimulation electrode (26, 27) is arranged. |
| US09566421B2 |
Fluid application device and method
The present invention provides a device, a system, and a method for application of fluids. |
| US09566419B2 |
Body lumen occlusion device and method
An occlusion device is described and depicted for occluding a body lumen. The device can comprise an occluding body member and one or more protruding portions or members disposed on the body member such that the protruding portion is provided with spacing, or surface area, to allow for tissue in-growth. The device can also comprise an expandable plug. The expandable plug may be twisted or otherwise formed into a shape, e.g., helical, in its initial deployment configuration, and untwist upon deployment. |
| US09566418B2 |
Sensor guide wire with micro-cable winding
A sensor guide wire for an intravascular measurement of a physiological variable in a living body includes a sensor region in a distal part of the sensor guide wire, a sensor element arranged in the sensor region, a male connector at a proximal part of the sensor guide wire, a least one electrical micro-cable connecting the male connector to the sensor element, and an elongated guide wire body arranged between the sensor region and the male connector. The at least one electrical micro-cable extends essentially helically around the guide wire body along the length of at least a part of the guide wire. |
| US09566417B1 |
Integrated antimicrobial dressing
A dressing includes a transparent film layer having a top side, an opposite bottom side, and an insertion site viewing portion. The bottom side has an adhesive portion and an adhesive-free portion. The adhesive-free portion is disposed within the viewing portion. An antimicrobial member having a top side and an opposite bottom side is disposed in the viewing portion. A portion of the antimicrobial member is adhered to the film layer adhesive portion, and a portion of the antimicrobial member is disposed in the adhesive-free portion. The antimicrobial member includes an outer edge and an opening disposed within the outer edge. The opening is disposed in the adhesive-free portion. A catheter extending from an insertion site is receivable through the opening in the antimicrobial member. The antimicrobial member surrounds the insertion site when the dressing is applied to a patient. |
| US09566410B2 |
Sleep aid system and operation method thereof
A sleep aid system and an operation method thereof are disclosed. The sleep aid system includes a sleep aid device including a retrieving module, a processing module, and a transmitting module, and a server. The retrieving module retrieves a brainwave signal including specific frequency band signals. The processing module analyzes the brainwave signal to obtain an index in each of the specific frequency band signals and calculates a sleepless degree parameter representing one of at least five brainwave states regarding sleep accordingly. The transmitting module transmits a parameter signal corresponding to the sleepless degree parameter. The server receives the parameter signal from the transmitting module. The server stores comparison data, compares the parameter signal to the comparison data, and generates a first feedback signal according to a comparison result. The first feedback signal includes a command to switch an audio file or stream which is currently being played. |
| US09566408B2 |
Air delivery conduit
An air delivery conduit for conveying breathable gas from a positive airway pressure device to a patient interface includes a tubular wall structure constructed from a textile material. A reinforcing structure may be provided to the wall structure that is structured to prevent kinking or collapsing of the wall structure. The wall structure may include a warp having a plurality of lengthwise textile warp threads arranged in a circle and a weft having a textile weft thread that is woven through the warp threads. |
| US09566406B2 |
Method and apparatus for adjusting respiratory mask sealing force
A mask assembly includes a mask with an inflatable bladder. The internal pressure of the inflatable bladder can be set to be higher than the delivered therapeutic pressure. The pressure offset may be constant, or it may vary over the range of therapeutic pressures. Thus, the force necessary to maintain a contact seal between the mask and the patient can be reduced, thereby providing a system that is more comfortable to the patient, which increases patient compliance. |
| US09566405B2 |
Mask for delivery of respiratory therapy to a patient and a lotion dispenser therefor
A mask for delivery of respiratory therapy to a patient may include one or more of the following improvements: rigidizer provided to headgear strap, locking clip/clip receptacle headgear connection, keyed headgear buckles, lotion dispenser on frame, rotatable prongs to adjust orientation, alignment indicators provided to prong, cushion and/or frame, chin flap with bellows arrangement, vent holes positioned away from gas entry port, and vent holes to direct washout gas at an angle. |
| US09566404B2 |
Medical vaporizer
A medical vaporizer includes a liquid drug reservoir configured to receive and hold a liquid drug. A low power graphical display is configured to intermittently receive power. The low power graphical display is operable to visually present information and maintain the visual presentation of information in the absence of power. A controller is configured to intermittently receive power and upon receiving power the controller operates to determine a status of a medical vaporizer. The controller operates the low power graphical display to present the status of the medical vaporizer as visually presented information. |
| US09566400B2 |
Nebulizer with negative pressure structure
A nebulizer with a negative pressure structure includes a nebulization body, a carrying cavity, a nebulizing element and a negative pressure generating element. The carrying cavity is provided for carrying a nebulized liquid and has a through hole. The nebulizing element is installed at the through hole and includes a piezoelectric driving unit and a nebulizing plate disposed on a side of the piezoelectric driving unit. The negative pressure generating element is formed on the carrying cavity and provided for changing the volume of the carrying cavity or removing air from the carrying cavity to reduce the air pressure in the carrying cavity, so as to nebulize a liquid of low surface tension or high viscosity effectively. |
| US09566396B2 |
Medical hand and arm protection apparatus and method of protection
A medical hand and arm protection apparatus and method of protection including a protective shell which is capable of receiving a patient's hand and arm. A sheet is attached to the protective shell, which is tucked under the patient to anchor the hand and arm protector in place. The protective shell also has one or more perforations that allow the medical professional access to the interior of the surgical arm protector to view the patient's IV sites and other medical equipment attached to the patient's hand or arm. |
| US09566395B2 |
Medicament storage, dispensing, and administration system and method
Various exemplary embodiments relate to an electronic device for dispensing a medicament. The electronic device may include a medicament storage case or an electronic medicament device. The medicament storage case includes: a door moveable between an open position and a closed position; a lock moveable between a locked position where the lock maintains the door in the closed position and an unlocked position where the lock allows the door to move to the open position; a medicament dispensing device containing medication; an input device located on an external surface of the storage case activatable by a user; a communication unit configured to initiate a two-way communication between the user and a remote access control center upon activation of the input device and configured to receive an access signal from the remote access control center; and an actuator responsive to the access signal to move the lock to the open position upon receipt of the communication from the remote access control center. The electronic medicament device includes a reservoir configured to store an amount of medication, an administration component for administering the medication to a patient, and a processor communicatively connected to a memory. |
| US09566390B2 |
Medication delivery device
A medication delivery device comprises a housing (1), a cap (2) configured to be attached to the housing (1) and a locking means (16, 17) configured to lock the cap (2). In a first state the cap (2) is detachable and in a second state the locking means (16, 17) locks the cap (2) if the cap (2) is attached. |
| US09566389B2 |
Injection device with a coupling
The invention describes a locking arrangement which is advantageously used in an injection device for administering a medicinal drug, such as insulin for example. The locking arrangement has the following features: —a sleeve (15) having toothing (15c) along the inner circumference; —a sleeve-shaped, particularly a one-piece, coupling element (16) with a longitudinal axis (L), which is surrounded along its circumference by the sleeve (15), and which has a first section (16c) and a second section (16d), the first section (16c) being connected to the second section (16d) via an elastically deformable intermediate section (16e), the intermediate section (16e) having an engagement element (16f) which engages in the toothing (15c) of the sleeve (15); —a torque application device (11), particularly a torsion spring or a discharge spring, which applies a torque directed in a first rotational direction to the first section (16c) of the coupling element (16) around the longitudinal axis (L), wherein the engagement element (16f) is pushed into the toothing (15c) via the torque in such a manner that a rotation of the coupling element (16) relative to the sleeve (15) is blocked in the first rotational direction, wherein the second section (16d) of the coupling element (16) can be twisted relative to the first section (16c) around the longitudinal axis (L) in the first rotational direction, as a result of which the engagement of the engagement element (16f) in the toothing (15c), which blocks rotation in the first rotational direction, can be released in such a manner that a rotation of the coupling element (16) relative to the sleeve (15) in the first rotational direction is enabled. |
| US09566384B2 |
Insertion device with horizontally moving part
The invention relates to an insertion device comprising—a penetrating member (50) connected to transformation means (52), —a moving part (38) comprising guiding means (39) which guiding means (39) restrict the movement of the transformation means (52) and guide the penetrating member (50) from a first to a second position in a first direction, i.e. the direction of insertion, towards the injection site, and—a stationary housing (30) comprising guiding means (32) which guiding means (32) restrict the movement of the moving part (38). The guiding means (32) guide the moving part (38) in a second direction which is linear and different from the first direction i.e. the direction of insertion. |
| US09566383B2 |
Method and system for adaptive communication transmission
Disclosed are methods, systems, devices and articles, including method for adaptive wireless communication transmissions between units of an ambulatory portable medical device. The method includes obtaining data relating to wireless transmissions between the units of the medical device, and setting one or more attributes of wireless transmission of one or more messages between the units of the medical device based, at least in part, on the obtained data. |
| US09566382B2 |
Bottle support for an injection or infusion device
A bottle support for an injection or infusion device with a main body, which has at least one bottle holder for the holding of a neck of a supply bottle. In order to bring about as simple and quick an equipping as possible of the injection device with supply bottles with different sizes and to hold the supply bottles securely in the bottle support, provision is made so that a shaft is formed in the main body, in which a tension slide, pretensioned with a spring, is supported so it can be displaced linearly. In a first position, the tension slide locks the neck of the supply bottle, and in a second position, the neck of the supply bottle is released. |
| US09566375B2 |
Methods for establishing supplemental blood flow in the circulatory system
A blood circulation assist system comprising an inflow cannula having a lumen and an insertion device configured to be received therein and to facilitate insertion of a portion of the inflow cannula into a heart chamber. The insertion device includes a shaft having distal and proximal end portions and a plurality of lumens. A first lumen is configured to receive a guidewire and a second lumen is configured to receive a pressurized fluid. A tip connected to the distal end portion of the shaft is configured for insertion into the heart chamber. The tip has a hollow interior communicating with the first shaft lumen. An inflatable member is coupled to the distal end portion of the shaft and includes a hollow interior in fluid communication with the second shaft lumen. The inflatable member is movable between deflated and inflated configurations for releasably securing the insertion device to the inflow cannula. |
| US09566373B2 |
Anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory agent combination for treatment of vascular disorders with an implantable medical device
Drug-delivery systems such as drug-delivery stents having an anti-proliferative agent such as everolimus and an anti-flammatory agent such as clobetasol are provided. Also disclosed are methods of treating a vascular impairment such as restenosis or vulnerable plaque. |
| US09566371B2 |
Biodegradable endoprostheses and methods for their fabrication
The disclosure provides biodegradable implantable devices such as a stent comprising a biodegradable polymeric wherein the polymeric material is treated to control crystallinity and/or Tg. The stent is capable to expand at body temperature in a body lumen from a crimped configuration to a deployed diameter and have sufficient strength to support a body lumen. |
| US09566368B2 |
Moldable bone graft compositions
The present disclosure relates to compositions useful in synthetic bone graft applications. Particularly, the disclosure teaches moldable bone graft compositions, methods of making said compositions, and methods of utilizing the same. |
| US09566361B2 |
Method for catalyzing a fenton reaction
A method for catalyzing a Fenton reaction, including adding hydrogen peroxide to a Fenton reaction catalyst, the Fenton reaction catalyst including a reaction product, wherein the reaction product is obtained by using roasted and ground coffee beans and/or tea leaves as a feedstock for supplying a component having a reduction effect, and mixing the feedstock for supplying the component having a reduction effect with an iron-supplying source containing divalent or trivalent iron in the presence of water. |
| US09566356B2 |
Sterilizing device and sterilization method having energy recovery
The present invention relates to a sterilizing device (1), comprising at least one chamber (2) for sterilizing products (4), a primary fluid circuit (3) connected to the chamber (2) for providing hot water and/or hot steam to the chamber, a secondary fluid circuit (8) for heating and/or cooling the primary fluid circuit (3), wherein the secondary fluid circuit (8) is connected to the primary fluid circuit (3) by means of a second heat exchanger (5), and a stratified storage tank (11) in the secondary fluid circuit (8) having a plurality of temperature zones (12), wherein the temperature zones (12) can be separately charged with and discharged of the fluid of the secondary fluid circuit (8). |
| US09566352B2 |
Methods and compositions for inhibiting viral entry into cells
Disclosed herein are methods and compositions for inhibiting viral entry into cells. |
| US09566349B2 |
Intestinal peptide targeting ligands
Peptide ligands for transporting therapeutic agents across the intestinal epithelial barrier that ordinarily are inadequately absorbed and must be delivered by alternative means, which contain an isolated amino acid sequence wherein at least one pair of amino acids are of an opposite charge and the pair members are separated by a spacer of 1-12 amino acid residues including at least one hydrophobic amino acid, and wherein the length of the amino acid sequence is greater than 5 and less than 20 amino acids. Pharmaceutical compositions for gastro-intestinal delivery and methods for the gastrointestinal delivery of poorly absorbed therapeutic agents are also disclosed. |
| US09566348B2 |
Methods and compositions for the treatment of cancer and infectious disease using alpha(2) macroglobulin-antigenic molecule complexes
The present invention relates to the use of alpha (2) macroglobulin complexes isolated from the serum of a mammal. The invention also relates to methods for making such complexes and compositions comprising alpha (2) macroglobulin complexes, isolated from the serum of a mammal, wherein such compositions are used in methods for the treatment and prevention of cancer and infectious disease. The invention also relates to methods for treating and preventing cancer and infectious disease using such complexes comprising, isolated from the serum of a mammal. The invention also encompasses methods for production of alpha (2) macroglobulin complexes. |
| US09566345B2 |
Mono- and di-peg IL-10 production; and uses
Provided are methods of producing mono- and di-pegylated IL-10. |
| US09566340B2 |
Monomers and oligonucleotides comprising cycloaddition adduct(s)
The invention features compounds of formula V or XII: In one embodiment, the invention relates compounds and processes for conjugating ligand to oligonucleotide. The invention further relates to methods for treating various disorders and diseases such as viral infections, bacterial infections, parasitic infections, cancers, allergies, autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies and immunosuppression. |
| US09566337B2 |
Powder mixtures for antibiotic dry syrup formulations
The present invention provides a pharmaceutical formulation prepared as dry syrups representing mere powder mixtures of beta-lactam antibiotics as active pharmaceutical ingredients and excipients without applying any other process steps than simple mixing of dry powder, whereby the pharmaceutical formulation combines two essential properties for processability and dosability: good flowability and high stability against segregation. |
| US09566335B1 |
Protein sequencing method and reagents
The invention describes methods and reagents useful for sequencing polypeptide molecules. The method comprises affixing a polypeptide to a substrate and contacting the polypeptide with a plurality of probes. Each probe selectively binds to an N-terminal amino acid or an N-terminal amino acid derivative. Probes bound to the polypeptide molecule are then identified before cleaving the N-terminal amino acid or N-terminal amino acid derivative of the polypeptide. Also provided are methods for the sequencing a plurality of polypeptide molecules in a sample and probes specific for N-terminal amino acids or N-terminal amino acid derivatives. |
| US09566334B2 |
Combinations of a PI3K/AKT inhibitor compound with an HER3/EGFR inhibitor compound and use thereof in the treatment of a hyperproliferative disorder
The invention provides combinations comprising GDC-0068 or GDC-0941, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ME-HD7945A. The combinations are particularly useful for treating hyperproliferative disorders, such as cancer (e.g., triple negative breast cancer). |
| US09566333B2 |
Compositions and methods for diagnosing and treating hyperthyroidism in companion animals
An isolated DNA molecule comprising a fragment of the gene encoding the feline NIS is disclosed as well as methods of use thereof. Also provided are methods for rational diet design of food composition suitable for administration to feline companion animals afflicted with hyperthyroidism, comprising (a) accessing at least one database that comprises a first data set relating functional gene profile of a biofluid or tissue sample from an animal to physiological condition of the animal, where the functional gene profile is that of the feline NIS gene; (b) accessing at least one database that comprises a second data set relating effects of bioactive dietary components on the functional gene profile; (c) using an algorithm drawing on these data sets, processing input data defining physiological condition to derive a nutritional formula promoting wellness of a feline companion animal afflicted with hyperthyroidism; and (d) preparing a food composition based on the nutritional formula. |
| US09566331B2 |
Vaccine immunotherapy
A composition for treating cancer, including synergistic amounts of a primary cell-derived biologic having the cytokines IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, and a cancer vaccine having at least one antigen. A composition comprising synergistic amounts of the primary cell-derived biologic in combination with at least one adjuvant. A method of treating cancer by administering the composition. A method of reversing immune suppression and gaining immunity to cancer. A method of producing an immune response to an exogenous antigen. A method of enhancing an immune response in a patient by administering the primary cell-derived biologic in combination with at least one adjuvant, and enhancing the immune response of the patient by a synergistic interaction of the primary cell-derived biologic and the adjuvant. A method of increasing function of an immune system. |
| US09566329B2 |
Live, attenuated rubella vector to express vaccine antigens
Disclosed herein are isolated rubella viral vector constructs that include a rubella non-structural protein open reading frame (ORF) without an in-frame deletion, a rubella structural protein ORF, and a heterologous antigenic insert. In one example, the heterologous antigenic insert is positioned within the rubella structural protein ORF. In some examples, the heterologous antigenic insert is positioned in the rubella structural protein ORF in between a gene encoding structural protein E2 and a gene encoding structural protein E1. Exemplary antigenic inserts include HIV, SIV, RSV or hepatitis B surface antigens. In some examples, the HIV antigenic insert is a Gag antigenic insert, a gp41 antigenic insert or a gp120 antigenic insert. Also disclosed are uses of the isolated rubella viral vector, such as to induce an immune response to a particular virus, such as HIV-1, testing sensitivity to neutralizing antibodies, or screening antiviral drugs (such as protease inhibitors). |
| US09566326B2 |
Adjuvanted influenza vaccines for pediatric use
An influenza vaccine adjuvanted with a sub-micron oil-in-water emulsion elicits significantly higher immune responses in human pediatric populations. Compared to an existing unadjuvanted pediatric influenza vaccine, the adjuvanted vaccines provided herein can induce in children a longer persistence of high serum antibody titers and also longer seroconversion and seroprotection. The improvement in immune responses is seen for both influenza A virus and influenza B virus strains, but it is particularly marked for influenza B virus. Moreover, while the existing vaccine provides poor immunity in children after a single dose, the adjuvanted vaccine provides high seroprotection rates against the influenza A virus H3N2 subtype even after a single dose. Furthermore, the adjuvanted vaccine offers significantly better seroprotection against mismatched strains of influenza A virus. |
| US09566325B2 |
Therapeutic vaccines for treating herpes simplex virus type-2 infections
The invention provides methods and kits for inducing a therapeutic immunity in animals (e.g. mammals) against viral antigens, including herpes-simplex virus type 2. In particular, the invention provides a method of treating animals with an established HSV-2 infection by administering a therapeutic vaccine comprising a priming dose of a nucleic acid encoding an HSV-2 antigen, an initial or first boosting dose comprising the protein form of the antigen encapsulated in liposomes, and one or more subsequent boosting doses comprising both the nucleic acid encoding the HSV-2 antigen and the liposomal-encapsulated protein antigen. |
| US09566323B2 |
Vaccine for cervical cancer
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical vaccine composition for a human cervical cancer, comprising: (a) (i) a L1 virus-like particle (VLP) of human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16, a L1 VLP of HPV type 18, or a combination thereof; and (ii) a deacylated non-toxic lipooligosaccharide (LOS); and (b) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; and a method for preparing a human papillomavirus (HPV) L1 virus-like particle (VLP). The pharmaceutical vaccine composition of the present invention is in both Th1-type immune response (cellular immunity) and Th2-type immune response (humoral immunity) against HPV more excellent than Cervrix™ and Gardasil™, exhibiting a superior efficacy as a vaccine for a human cervical cancer. |
| US09566321B2 |
Immunomodulatory minicells and methods of use
The present disclosure is related to immunomodulatory bacterial minicells and methods of using the minicells. |
| US09566317B2 |
Treatment of ophthalmic conditions
Ophthalmic conditions such as presbyopia, myopia, and astigmatism can be corrected by the use of a molding contact lens in combination with a pharmaceutical composition suitable for delivery to the eye. The molding contact lenses are preferably commercially available and are not specifically designed for orthokeratology. The agents in the pharmaceutical compositions such as hyaluronase allow the cornea of the eye to be molded in order to correct the refractive error of the eye. The contact lenses and the pharmaceutical composition induce a change in the radius of curvature of the anterior surface of the cornea, thereby correcting the refractive error of the eye. One advantage of the inventive technique is that the patient with his or her own individual visual needs guides the treatment until the patient near and far visual needs are met. The present invention also provides for kits, which contain molding contact lenses, pharmaceutical composition suitable for delivery to the eye, and instructions, useful in the inventive system. |
| US09566316B2 |
Variant, recombinant beta-glucocerebrosidase proteins with increased stability and increased retained catalytic activity
Described herein are variant, recombinant β-glucocerebrosidase proteins characterized as having increased stability relative to recombinant wild-type β-glucocerebrosidase. Also provided herein are variant, recombinant β-glucocerebrosidase proteins characterized as retaining more catalytic activity relative to recombinant wild-type β-glucocerebrosidase. Further described herein are variant, recombinant β-glucocerebrosidase proteins that can have amino acid variations at one or more of the following positions: 316, 317, 321 and 145. Methods of making the variant, recombinant β-glucocerebrosidase proteins are also described as well as methods of treating patients having lysosomal storage diseases. |
| US09566315B2 |
Normalization of the enterohepatic circulation in animals with a chimeric humanized liver
Methods of normalizing bile acid production in a mouse engrafted with human hepatocytes by the administration of human FGF19 are disclosed. Also disclosed is a transgenic host animal, such as a mouse, that expresses human FGF19 that has normalized bile acid production when engrafted with human hepatocytes. |
| US09566307B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition
A pharmaceutical composition contains a coxsackievirus A11 type that infects cancer cells or an echovirus 4 type that infects cancer cells. The coxsackievirus A11 type and the echovirus 4 type may have capsid eliminated. The pharmaceutical composition has an intensive cytotoxicity to a cell of cancer selected from the group consisting of small cell lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, lung squamous cell carcinoma, malignant mesothelioma, colorectal cancer, colon/rectum cancer, esophageal cancer, hypopharynx cancer, human-B-lymphocyte tumor, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and pancreatic cancer, which is the cancer cells of a solid cancer. |
| US09566303B2 |
Iron-fiber composition, preparation and uses thereof
Compositions comprising ferrous and/or ferric iron compounds and fiber in a complex, methods for preparing such compositions of matter, and the use thereof for treatment of adsorbing certain accessible targets in the gastrointestinal tract and in an extracorporeal system, are provided herein. |
| US09566300B2 |
Method, composition and package for bowel cleansing
The present invention provides a highly palatable colon cleansing formulation that utilizes a low chloride electrolyte-replenishing base solution. When formulated with polyethylene glycol and a selected sugar alcohol, the formulation offers the advantages of superior palatability without undesirable concomitant side effects or a decrease in cleansing efficacy. |
| US09566293B2 |
Oral delivery of therapeutically effective LNA oligonucleotides
The invention provides for LNA oligomers, for the treatment of a metabolic or liver disorder, wherein the LNA oligomer is administered orally in a unit dose of less than 50 mgs/kg, wherein the LNA oligomer is administered in the presence of a penetration (permeation) enhancer. |
| US09566290B2 |
Boron-containing small molecules
This invention relates to compounds useful for treating fungal infections, more specifically topical treatment of onychomycosis and/or cutaneous fungal infections. This invention is directed to compounds that are active against fungi and have properties that allow the compound, when placed in contact with a patient, to reach the particular part of the skin, nail, hair, claw or hoof infected by the fungus. In particular the present compounds have physiochemical properties that facilitate penetration of the nail plate. |
| US09566285B2 |
Methods and materials for reducing suppression of immune function
This document provides methods and materials involved in reducing suppression of immune function in mammals. For example, methods and materials for (a) identifying a mammal as having an elevated level of CD14+/DR− cells (e.g., CD14+/DR− monocytes) and (b) administering RU486 (mifepristone; or drugs with a similar functional profile) to the identified mammal under conditions that change the ratio of CD14+/HLA-DR− cells to CD14+/HLA-DR+ cells as well as methods and materials for (a) identifying a mammal as being likely to experience an elevated level of CD14+/DR− cells (e.g., CD14+/DR− monocytes) and (b) administering RU486 (mifepristone; or drugs with a similar functional profile) to the identified mammal under conditions that reduce the degree to which the mammal develops CD14+/DR− cells are provided. |
| US09566283B2 |
Compositions and methods for inhibition of the JAK pathway
Disclosed are compounds of formula I, compositions containing them, and methods of use for the compounds and compositions in the treatment of conditions in which modulation of the JAK pathway or inhibition of JAK kinases, particularly JAK 2 and JAK3, are therapeutically useful. |
| US09566280B2 |
Combination therapies and methods of use thereof for treating cancer
Pharmaceutical compositions including an effective amount of an antiandrogen or androgen antagonist in combination with a Plk inhibitor and methods of use thereof for treating cancer are disclosed. Administration of the combination of the active agents can be effective to reduce cancer cell proliferation or viability in a subject with cancer to the same degree, or a greater degree than administering to the subject the same amount of either active agent alone. The active agents can be administered together or separately. Methods of selecting and treating subjects with cancers, particular prostate cancers including castration resistant prostate cancer, breast cancers, particularly androgen receptor positive breast cancers, and pancreatic cancers are also provided. |
| US09566267B2 |
Biostable, multipurpose, microbicidal intravaginal devices
Biostable, multipurpose, microbicidal intravaginal devices in the form of rings, ringed-meshes, sponges, or diaphragms for use by women and condoms for use by male partners are provided, wherein each of the devices contains a drug effective in treating a particular vaginal infection, while further exhibiting at least one additional function selected from the group dealing with non-hormonal contraception, management of sexually transmitted diseases, viral infections, and retroviral infections as well as the treatment of cervical cancer. |
| US09566265B2 |
Carbazole compounds and therapeutic uses of the compounds
Compounds of the general structural formula (I) and (II) and use of the compounds and salts and hydrates thereof, as therapeutic agents are disclosed. Treatable diseases and conditions include cancers, inflammatory diseases and conditions, and immunodeficiency diseases. (I), (II). |
| US09566263B2 |
Methods and formulations for treating scars and β-catenin-mediated disorders
A topical drug composition for treating a β-catenin-mediated disorder in a mammal is provided comprising a Nefopam compound selected from Nefopam, or a functionally equivalent analog, prodrug, salt or solvate thereof. |
| US09566260B2 |
Treatment and prevention of liver disease associated with parenteral nutrition (PN)
The present invention is based on the discovery that parenteral nutrition (PN) induced liver disease, e.g. fatty liver disease, can be prevented and even reversed by administration of primarily omega-3-fatty acid with PN rather than the administration of the standard intravenous lipid emulsions that contain primarily plant derived omega-6 fatty acid. Thus, the present invention provides a method for treating or preventing liver disease in a human patient obtaining nutritional support through PN. The method comprises intravenous administration of an effective amount of an omega-3-fatty acid emulsion to the patient, wherein the patient is not administered phytosterols or plant derived fatty acids, e.g. omega-6 fatty acids derived from a plant source, and wherein the administration of the omega-3-fatty acid emulsion to the patient is for a period greater than three weeks. Preferably, the administration is for a period of greater than six weeks. More preferably, the administration is for a period greater than three months. |
| US09566257B2 |
Compositions comprising ornithine and phenylacetate or phenylbutyrate for treating hepatic encephalopathy
The present invention relates to use of ornithine in the manufacture of a medicament for use in combination with at least one of phenylacetate and phenylbutyrate for preventing or treating liver decompensation or hepatic encephalopathy. The invention also relates to use of at least one of phenylacetate and phenylbutyrate in the manufacture of a medicament for use in combination with ornithine for preventing or treating liver decompensation or hepatic encephalopathy. |
| US09566256B2 |
Transdermal drug delivery using an osmolyte and vasoactive agent
A formulation and method for delivery of bioactive substances when applied to, or within, the skin or other exterior region of a mammal. for example, a patient, includes a vasoactive agent; an osmolyte; and an active ingredient. The formulation is sufficiently hygroscopic so as to create a condition of hypertonicity when absorbed by the skin. When the formulation is applied to the skin, the vasoactive agent can be delivered to the dermis so as to contact the vasculature of a patient. |
| US09566255B2 |
Method for regulating retinal endothelial cell viability
Here provided is a method for regulating retinal endothelial cell viability in a mammal by administering to the mammal a therapeutically effective amount of a quinic acid analog. The method may be applied to prevent, treat or cure pathological conditions of retinal endothelial cells associated with radiation retinopathy, diabetic retinopathy and chemotherapy for retinoblastoma. |
| US09566254B2 |
Inhibitors and methods of inhibiting bacterial and viral pathogens
Compounds, pharmaceutical compositions and methods for treating viral and bacterial infections, by administering certain thiourea compounds, specifically acylthiourea, carboximidoylthiourea and S-alkyl isothiourea derivatives and analogs, in therapeutically effective amounts are disclosed. |
| US09566250B2 |
Artificial tissue constructs comprising alveolar cells and methods for using the same
The present invention comprises artificial tissue constructs that serve as in vitro models of mammalian lung tissue. The artificial tissue constructs of the present invention comprise functionally equivalent in vitro tissue scaffolds that enable immunophysiological function of the lung. The constructs can serve as novel platforms for the study of lung diseases (e.g., interstitial lung diseases, fibrosis, influenza, RSV) as well as smoke- and smoking-related diseases. The artificial tissue constructs of the present invention comprise the two components of alveolar tissue, epithelial and endothelial cell layers. |
| US09566246B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions and related methods of delivery
The pharmaceutical compositions described herein include a suspension which comprises an admixture in solid form of a therapeutically effective amount of a therapeutic agent and at least one salt of a medium chain fatty acid and a hydrophobic medium, e.g. castor oil or glyceryl tricaprylate or a mixture thereof. The pharmaceutical compositions described herein contain medium chain fatty acid salts and are substantially free of alcohols. The pharmaceutical compositions may be encapsulated in a capsule. Methods of treating or preventing diseases by administering such compositions to affected subjects are also disclosed. |
| US09566238B2 |
Formulation of PEGylated-liposome encapsulated glycopeptide antibiotics
This invention is directed to a novel method of treating an individual suffering from a bacterial infection, such as bacterial infections of various tissues or organs of an individual. In general, the method of treatment involves administering to an individual a pharmaceutical formulation that comprises a liposome-encapsulated antimicrobial agent, wherein polyethylene glycol (PEG) molecules are covalently attached to the surface of the liposomes. |
| US09566231B2 |
Aqueous hair cleansing agent
An aqueous hair cleansing agent containing the following components (A), (B) and (C) and water: (A) an anionic surfactant; (B) a specific organo polysiloxane; and (C) one or more of cationized polymer(s) selected from (c-1) and (c-2): (c-1) a cationized polymer having cellulose skeleton or galactomannan skeleton; and (c-2) a cationic polymer having diallyl dimethylammonium salt skeleton. |
| US09566228B2 |
Bubble type waterless shampoo composition
A bubble type waterless shampoo composition. 0.1 to 5 wt % of potassium cocoyl hydrolyzed collagen and 0.01 to 2 wt % of palmitoyl oligopeptide as natural surfactants. 0.1 to 7 wt % of cocamidopropyl betaine as an amphoteric ion. 0.01 to 0.8 wt % of a citric acid as an organic acid. 0.1 to 4 wt % of sodium carbonate as inorganic salt. 0.01 to 0.5 wt % of origanum vulgare leaf oil. 0.01 to 0.6 wt % of a gallic acid. 0.01 to 3 wt % of glycerin. The rest of aqua water having a function of a solvent made by refining tap water through distilling or ion-exchange resin ion. |
| US09566227B2 |
Cosmetic composition comprising a muconopeptide
A cosmetic composition including as an active substance a cosmetically effective amount of at least one mu-conotoxin peptide It further concerns a composition wherein the mu-conotoxin peptide is Argninine, lysine polypeptide, CAS Number: 937286-43-6, Molecular formula C92,H139,N35,O28,S6 acetate salt (molar mass 2376 g/mol.). Also, the use of the composition to improve the mechanical properties of the skin, tonicity and/or firmness and/or elasticity of the skin. |
| US09566226B2 |
Oral compositions containing polymethylsilsesquioxane particles
Oral compositions containing a polyorganosilsesquioxane particle, preferably polymethylsilsesquioxane particles, a stannous ion source, and an orally-acceptable carrier. Method of using such compositions for the cleaning and polishing of dental enamel, such methods including the step of applying such oral care compositions to the teeth of a user. |
| US09566225B2 |
Products and methods for disclosing conditions in the oral cavity
An oral composition capable of identifying a condition within the oral cavity by causing a visual contrast between the condition and the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity has at least one disclosing agent. The disclosing agent can fluoresce in order to highlight conditions within the oral cavity. |
| US09566224B2 |
Tyrosinase inhibitors
The compositions and methods of described herein comprise novel ingredients effective to reduce unwanted pigmentation, such as skin discoloration, freckles, age spots, liver spots, sun damage, tans, pigmented acne marks, scars, pigmented birthmarks, hyperpigmentation, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, post-injury hyperpigmentation, melasma, cholasma, after-burn scar, nail stain, yellowing of skin, dark circles under eyes, and the like. The composition may include additional ingredients accordingly for a colored cosmetic, moisturizer, cleanser, toner, and the like. |
| US09566221B2 |
Methods for altering the color and appearance of hair
Disclosed are methods and compositions for altering the color of hair, comprising treating the hair with a pre-alkalizing composition and then treating the hair with a color-altering composition comprising at least one direct dye and optionally at least one oxidative dye precursor. |
| US09566220B2 |
Composition containing a volatile linear alkane and a nonionic associative polymer, useful for conditioning the hair
The invention relates to compositions and their use for conditioning keratin fibers, in particular the hair. The composition contains in a cosmetically acceptable medium, one or more volatile linear alkanes, and one or more nonionic associative polymers. |
| US09566219B2 |
Temporary stain repellent for preventing staining of teeth
Methods, compositions, and products maintain white teeth or prolong the effects of teeth whitening by preventing staining of teeth via a temporary stain repellent. The temporary stain repellent can include a food-grade silicone compound configured to temporarily form a protective layer over teeth or fill the pores of the teeth before and during the consumption of pigmented foods and/or drinks post-teeth whitening. |
| US09566214B2 |
Portable system of preserving and instantly mixing baby formula
A reusable, portable attachment for coupling in between a baby bottle top and a baby bottle container that comprises a container compartment for storing powdered formula separately from water prior to feeding, a hollow compartment, a removable seal therebetween, and a release actuator for releasing the seal to mix the powdered formula and water. |
| US09566212B2 |
Implantable electroacupuncture system and method for treating dyslipidemia and obesity
An exemplary method of treating obesity or dyslipidemia of a patient using a small implantable electroacupuncture device (IEAD) includes 1) implanting the IEAD below the skin surface of the patient at or near a target tissue location selected from the group of target tissue locations comprising acupoints ST36, SP4, ST37, ST40, SP6, SP9, K16, LR8 and their underlying nerves, the saphenous nerve and the peroneal nerve, and 2) enabling the IEAD to provide EA stimulation pulses in accordance with a stimulation regimen that provides a stimulation session having a duration of T3 minutes at a rate of once every T4 minutes, where the ratio of T3/T4 is no greater than 0.05, and wherein T3 is at least 10 minutes and no greater than 60 minutes. |
| US09566210B2 |
Chest following algorithm for automated CPR device
A method for automated CPR includes controlling a position of a compression element during movement of the compression element from an initial starting position (P0) of a first compression cycle to a first compression position (P1) corresponding to a first compression depth and back to a rest position of the compression element. After, the rest position has been reached, the method includes controlling a force exerted on the compression element, to ensure that the compression element stays in contact or re-contacts with the chest while allowing the chest to move upward due to ventilation, prior to the start of a second compression cycle. |
| US09566209B2 |
Shock wave electrodes with fluid holes
Medical devices utilizing shock waves with spark gap electrodes that include fluid holes into the respective electrode cores. |
| US09566206B2 |
Graduated compression garments
The present invention is directed to graduated compression garments for legs having flat toe seams, wherein the pressure value at the ankle zone (1) is of about 10-27 mmHg and at the calf zone (2) about 6-16 mmHg, wherein at least an achilles section, heel section, toe section and/or a foot sole section is cushioned on the internal side of the garment. |
| US09566198B2 |
Method of making an absorbent composite and absorbent articles employing the same
Disclosed is a disposable absorbent article with a chassis body having a first end margin and a second end margin longitudinally spaced from the first end margins. The article further includes a topsheet, a backsheet, and an absorbent composite disposed between the topsheet and backsheet. The absorbent composite includes a first fabric, a second fabric, and absorbent particles disposed between the first and second fabric. The first fabric is intermittently attached to the second fabric to define a plurality of containers situated therebetween, each containing an aggregate of absorbent particles. The absorbent composite includes regions of such absorbent particles aggregates, including a primary region having containers of a first size and a secondary region having a plurality of containers of a second size. |
| US09566197B2 |
Absorbent pads comprising zones of differential absorbent capacity
An folded absorbent sanitary pad having a lower basis weight of superabsorbent polymer in correspondence with the folding lines which helps reducing the stiffness of the article caused by the folding lines. |
| US09566194B2 |
Tampon
A tampon for use in feminine hygiene. The tampon has an elongate body and a string. The elongate body has a first end, a second end, and an interior. The string has a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion. The first end and the second end of the string are attached to the interior of the elongate body such that the first end and the second end are separated and the intermediate portion of the string forms a loop that extends from the second. end of the elongate body. The loop provides a grip to assist in removing the tampon. |
| US09566193B2 |
Methods and apparatus for forming disposable products at high speeds with small machine footprint
The present invention provides machinery used to create products (for instance disposable products). The machinery is operated at high speed, with the machine occupying a small footprint. Materials can be fed into the manufacturing process vertically (from above or below), using assembly stations to feed completed components into the system at appropriate stations. Additionally, restocking of raw components can be accomplished by robotic means of transferring the raw material from staging areas into infeeding or splicing stations, without the need for human operators. |
| US09566188B2 |
Automatically switching different aspiration levels and/or pumps to an ocular probe
Methods and apparatuses for automatically switching different aspiration levels to an ocular probe are disclosed herein. The probe may be a phacoemulsification probe. A first aspiration level, supplied by a first pump, may be applied to the probe simultaneously with ultrasonic energy. A second aspiration level, supplied by a second pump, may be automatically switched from the first aspiration level. Control feed back of the pumps may be varied according to set thresholds. |
| US09566184B2 |
Erection simulator prosthsesis
This is a device that is provided or used as prosthesis in supporting the penis of a wearer, during intercourse. One embodiment is of a prosthesis is to aid the ability for a fully or partially impotent man to be able to perform sexual intercourse. Another embodiment of the prosthesis is that it will be able to mount on a penis that is partially erect. One embodiment of the prosthesis is of a type having a rigid body that is tubular in shape that the non erect or partially erect penis is mounted onto the penis in order to simulate a physical male erection (11) which is constructed with a slot (12) to mount the prosthesis during sexual intercourse and it holds the bottom of the penis in place and exposed while and during the act of intercourse. This exposes the sensitive area of the penis (which is behind the head of the penis) is exposed and allows for pleasure and orgasm. The cone (10) allows the insertion of the prosthesis into the sex canal of the partner without discomfort. The material (13) is constructed of a rigid penis like tubular construction in order to simulate a physical erection of a male. It is attached to the penis by a special tape that adheres to the prosthesis but does not adhere to the sensitive area of the penis and will not cause painful removal from the skin. Any adhesive tape is acceptable. Other embodiments are described and shown. |
| US09566183B1 |
Nasal strip having end tabs to enhance the removal of the nasal strip from the user's nose
A nasal strip for opening nasal passageways having an external portion formed from a plastic material that extends throughout the length of the nasal strip. The external portion has a central section and opposing end sections with the central section having the same or a smaller width as compared to the nasal strip width at each end section. An adhesive coating covers each of the end sections and the central section does not have an adhesive coating. A non-adhesive tab extending from either or both end sections provides a novel means for the easy removal of the nasal strip from the user's nose. |
| US09566180B2 |
Stimulus generation apparatus
There is provided a stimulus generation apparatus including a stimulus generation section which provides a stimulus for promoting fat burning for fat or a satiety center inside a body cavity. |
| US09566179B2 |
Devices and methods for controlling and indicating the length of an interventional element
Devices and methods are provided for controlling and indicating the deployed length of an interventional element on an interventional catheter. The interventional element may be a stent or series of stents, a balloon, or any other interventional element for which length control is necessary or desirable. Devices for controlling the length of the interventional element include gear driven actuators, motors, and other mechanisms. Devices for indicating length of an interventional element to the user include sensors, detents, visual displays and other mechanisms providing visual, audible, and tangible indications of length to the user. The control and indication devices preferably work in tandem to enable highly precise adjustment of interventional element length. |
| US09566177B2 |
Bioresorbable vascular implant having homogenously distributed stresses under a radial load
A bioresorbable vascular implant for implantation in a bodily lumen has a tubular framework and includes one or more annular support members. Each of the one or more annular support members includes a plurality of struts interconnected by a hinge region. Each of the plurality of struts also includes a mid-section. The vascular implant also includes at least one viscoelastic material that enables transition of the vascular implant between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. Each of the plurality of struts and the hinge region defines a cross-section. The moment of inertia increases from the mid-section towards the hinge region to accommodate the transition and resist a radial load applied to the vascular implant in the expanded configuration. |
| US09566173B2 |
Motion control device based on winding string
Provided is a motion control device. The device comprises one or more frames which supports an exoskeleton of a body; a string which connects the frames with each other; a pulley which is disposed between the frames and connected to one end of the string; and a motor which is connected to the other end of the string to control the string, wherein the pulley rotates the string according to control of the motor. |
| US09566169B2 |
ACIS allograft designs
Structural allograft fusion devices containing a single integral piece of cortical bone in combination with one or more pieces of cancellous bone, wherein the cortical and cancellous pieces are pinned together. |
| US09566166B2 |
Spinal implant configured for midline insertion and related instruments
The embodiments provide a spinal implant that is configured for midline insertion into a patient's intervertebral disc space. The spinal implant may include structural guidance features to facilitate the angular approach of fixation elements into the apertures. The spinal implant may also be a configured with a tactile or visual feedback response feature to allow the user to know when the fixation elements are fully seated within the apertures. |
| US09566164B2 |
Intervertebral disc prosthesis
The present invention relates to an intervertebral disc prosthesis comprising at least three pieces including an upper plate, a lower plate, and a movable core at least in relation to a plate, wherein it also comprises two anatomic adaptation elements of which each has, on one hand, a surface in contact with a surface of a vertebra and, on the other hand, a face of which at least a part has a surface in contact with at least a part of the plate opposite to which the anatomic adaptation element is mounted, the anatomic adaptation elements being fixed onto the plates via fixation means. |
| US09566163B2 |
Expandable spinal implant
An expandable spinal implant configured for positioning within the intervertebral space between adjacent vertebral bodies is disclosed. The spinal implant includes a first body, a second body, a ratchet, and a locking mechanism. The first and second bodies are pivotably affixed to each other on respective first ends thereof and are capable of movement relative to each other in a medial-lateral direction with respect to the adjacent vertebral bodies. The ratchet is pivotably supported within a slot defined in the first body and is capable of engaging the second body thereby permitting movement of the first and second body relative to each other in a first direction, but not in a second direction that is different than the first direction. A method of performing spinal surgery is also disclosed. |
| US09566160B2 |
Femoral trochlea prostheses
Various embodiments of femoral trochlea prostheses useable in a knee joint. The knee joint includes a patella and a distal femur with a femoral trochlea, or patello-femoral groove. In one embodiment, a femoral trochlea prosthesis includes a distal tail. In another embodiment, a femoral trochlea prosthesis includes a wing or extension portion. In yet another embodiment, a set of femoral trochlea prostheses includes a plurality of prostheses having differing thicknesses. In still another embodiment, a femoral trochlea prosthesis includes a porous medium on various portions of the prosthesis. |
| US09566159B2 |
Hip resurfacing
A method of locating an acetabular cup implant (100) in a pelvis comprises locating a plurality of reference points on the pelvis, defining a target location of the implant relative to the reference points, and placing the implant at the target location. A method of locating a femoral head implant (102) is also disclosed, together with associated guidance systems. |
| US09566152B2 |
Heart valve assembly and methods
Heart valve assembly systems and methods configured for medical interventional procedures. In one aspect, the methods and systems involve a modular approach to treatment. |
| US09566151B2 |
Percutaneously implantable flap stent, device for applying the same and method for producing the flap stent
A valve stent includes a plurality of crown elements arranged coaxially one behind the other, each formed by several u-shaped bends with at least one base and two ends. The bases of one crown element are connected to the ends of another crown element via connection bars. To produce this valve stent, 3D droplet dosing technology is used to form a thin-walled sandwich structure. A device, suitable for application of a stent is provided with positioning wires having clamps at their ends which can be connected to the fixing hooks at the ends of the crown elements in force-locking manner. |
| US09566147B2 |
Radiopaque intraluminal stents comprising cobalt-based alloys containing one or more platinum group metals, refractory metals, or combinations thereof
Embodiments are directed to radiopaque implantable structures (e.g., stents) formed of cobalt-based alloys that comprise cobalt, chromium and one or more platinum group metals, refractory metals, precious metals, or combinations thereof. Platinum group metals include platinum, palladium, ruthenium, rhodium, osmium, and iridium. Refractory metals include zirconium, niobium, rhodium, molybdenum, hafnium, tantalum, tungsten, rhenium, and precious metals include silver and gold. In one embodiment, the one or more included platinum group or refractory metals substitute at least partially for nickel, such that the alloy exhibits reduced nickel content, or is substantially nickel free. The stents exhibit improved radiopacity as compared to similar alloys including greater amounts of nickel. |
| US09566143B2 |
Incontinence treatment device and method of treating urinary incontinence
An incontinence treatment device and method of treating urinary incontinence in a person includes fabricating an artificial urethra to have a flow diameter formed inside of a circumferential wall and a closure device attached directly to a portion of an outer surface of the circumferential wall of the artificial urethra. The artificial urethra is sized to be spliced to a natural urethra for alignment of the flow diameter of the artificial urethra with a lumen of the natural urethra. A pump is provided for moving liquid out of a reservoir and into the closure device to push the outer surface of the circumferential wall into the flow diameter of the artificial urethra, which operates to close the flow diameter of the artificial urethra. |
| US09566141B2 |
Medicinal implant device and cartridge
The invention includes a device for inserting a medicament within a body cavity of a mammal, and a cartridge for containing the medicament within the device, where the cartridge includes a housing, a retractable chamber for containing medicament disposed within the housing, and a substantially stationary member disposed within the barrel of the retractable chamber, where upon activation of the device, the retractable chamber is retracted about the substantially stationary member, thereby depositing medicament within the body cavity. |
| US09566140B2 |
Method and device for whitening teeth using sonochemistry
Tooth whitening device for whitening teeth using sonochemistry includes a body, and an ultrasonic transducer provided in the body. The ultrasonic transducer is configured for producing ultrasonic waves in the range of 20-100 kHz, and good results have been achieved with ultrasonic waves at a frequency of 40 kHz. There is an ultrasonic horn provided on the body, and the ultrasonic horn is operatively connected with the ultrasonic transducer. A liquid retaining element is provided on the ultrasonic horn, and the liquid retaining element is configured for retaining a liquid tooth whitening composition against a user's teeth. The liquid retaining element may be a sponge or a replaceable pad, such as a foam pad. |
| US09566126B2 |
Direct drive endoscopy systems and methods
Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for facilitating control of a tool or tools. The systems can allow a user to control multiple degrees of freedom. One such system allows a user to control multiple degrees of freedom of two tools simultaneously. Another such system allows a user to control multiple degrees of freedom with a single hand. Frames and rails for supporting and/or constraining movement of a tool or tools are also described herein. |
| US09566125B2 |
Surgical manipulator having a feed rate calculator
A surgical manipulator for manipulating a surgical instrument and an energy applicator extending from the surgical instrument. The surgical manipulator further includes at least one controller configured to operate the surgical manipulator in a manual mode or a semi-autonomous mode. The at least one controller including a feed rate calculator configured to calculate an instrument feed rate. The instrument feed rate is a velocity at which a distal end of the energy applicator advances along a path segment of a tool path in the semi-autonomous mode. |
| US09566124B2 |
Methods for handling an operator command exceeding a medical device state limitation in a medical robotic system
A medical robotic system has a robotic arm holding a medical device, and a control system for controlling movement of the arm according to operator manipulation of an input device. If the medical device is being commanded to a state exceeding a limitation by a threshold amount, then the control system disengages control of the medical device by the input device, servos the arm so that it remains in its current state, servos the input device so that it is set at a position such that a force being applied on the input device remains at its current level, requests the operator to lighten hold of the input device, sets a parameter associated with the input device upon detecting such lightened hold so that the medical device is commanded to a different state that does not exceed the limitation, and reengages control of the medical device by the input device. |
| US09566122B2 |
Robotic system and method for transitioning between operating modes
A robotic system includes a surgical manipulator and a force/torque sensor. The surgical manipulator operates in a first operating mode in which a user applies forces and torques to the surgical instrument to cause movement of the energy applicator. The surgical manipulator also operates in a second operating mode in which the surgical manipulator moves the energy applicator along a tool path. A controller monitors the output of the force/torque sensor as the energy applicator is being moved along the tool path in the second operating mode and transitions from the second operating mode to the first operating mode in response to the output exceeding associated limits. |
| US09566119B2 |
Robotic surgical system and method for automated therapy delivery
A method of navigating a medical device through a body of a patient includes providing a topography of at least a portion of the body, accepting user input defining a navigation path, robotically navigating the medical device to a starting point on the path, and robotically navigating the medical device along the navigation path to an endpoint. Waypoints defining the navigation path may be input on a graphical representation of the topography using a user interface such as a pointing device or touchscreen. The navigation path may also be defined by tracing a substantially continuous path on the graphical representation. A therapy may be administered while robotically navigating the medical device along the navigation path, either forward or in reverse, or while navigating the medical device along a return path defined by a plurality of virtual breadcrumbs generated as the medical device traverses the navigation path. |
| US09566115B2 |
Energy delivery systems and uses thereof
The present invention relates to comprehensive systems, devices and methods for delivering energy to tissue for a wide variety of applications, including medical procedures (e.g., tissue ablation, resection, cautery, vascular thrombosis, treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and dysrhythmias, electrosurgery, tissue harvest, etc.). In certain embodiments, systems, devices, and methods are provided for treating a tissue region (e.g., a tumor) through application of energy. |
| US09566111B2 |
Ablation device having an expandable chamber for anchoring the ablation device to tissue
A surgical instrument is provided including a handle assembly, a shaft electrically coupled to the handle assembly and extending therefrom, an electrode assembly electrically coupled to the shaft for transmitting energy to tissue to treat tissue, and a chamber defined in the shaft and positioned proximal a distal end thereof and configured to selectively expand. The expansion of the chamber anchors the surgical instrument to the tissue. |
| US09566105B2 |
Dual thermal ablation device and method of use
The invention is a multi-functional ablation device that encompasses the use of both heat energy and cryogenic energy as integrated into one medical device. In one embodiment, the medical device integrates a heat source such as RF or HIFU in combination with a source of cryogenic energy such that the multi-functional ablation device is a dual thermal ablation device capable of utilizing either energy source alone or in combination. |
| US09566104B2 |
Reduction forceps with dual 90°-deformation for distribution among two planes
The invention relates to a reduction forceps comprising a first rod and a second rod, which are supported on a swivel joint defining an axis of rotation such that they are pivotable relative to one another, the first rod comprising on one side of the swivel joint a first jaw and the second rod comprising, on the same side of the swivel joint, a second jaw provided for cooperation with the first jaw, both said jaws having defined thereon contact points for contacting a bone or a bone plate, said contact points being movable in a common pivoting plane, which comprises the swivel joint and in which the axis of rotation extends perpendicularly, and at least one of the jaws being sectionwise displaced in the direction of a plane extending parallel to the pivoting plane. |
| US09566099B2 |
Medical device, apparatus, and surgical method
A pedicle anchor device is equipped for being used like a pedicle screw, i.e. for being implanted in the vertebra from dorsal direction (but generally at an angle to the sagittal plane, slightly inward towards the sagittal plane) through the pedicle so that a distal portion of the device protrudes into the vertebral body. The pedicle anchor device includes a pedicle anchor device body with a head portion, a shaft portion and a longitudinal bore that extends from a proximal end of the pedicle anchor device body and has a hole or a plurality of holes from the longitudinal bore outward, for example radially outward. |
| US09566094B2 |
Occipital plate systems
Occipital plate systems are described. The occipital plate systems can include a novel occipital plate having an upper portion and lower portion. The lower portion can include an opening for receiving one or more lateral members therethrough. The lateral members include top and/or side apertures for receiving lateral connectors that are attached to polyaxial screw receiving members. The occipital plate systems can also include low-profile clamping arms that are operably attached to an occipital plate via an extension member and articulating joint member. The clamping arms, along with tension cables attached intermittently along its length, can be used in addition to or instead of screws and hooks to secure an occipital plate system to vertebrae. |
| US09566091B2 |
Method and tool for assembling a bone anchoring device
A method for assembling a bone anchoring device includes inserting a bone anchoring element in a first holder of a tool and inserting a receiving part in a second holder of the tool, actuating the tool from a first configuration towards a second configuration to insert a head of the bone anchoring element into the receiving part; continuing actuation of the tool towards the second configuration to move a locking ring and a receiving part body of the receiving part relative to each other until the locking ring assumes a second position with respect to the receiving part body in which the locking ring is latched to the receiving part body in a position where the locking ring compresses a portion of the receiving part body to compress the head, such that the head is held in and cannot be removed from the receiving part body and the bone anchoring element is held adjustably at a first angular position relative to the receiving part, and removing the attached bone anchoring element and receiving part from the tool. The tool is configured for the execution of the steps according to the method. |
| US09566090B1 |
Systems and methods for treating spinal deformities
Systems and methods of treating spinal deformity, including one or more intervertebral implants to be introduced laterally into respective intervertebral spaces, a plurality of bone screws introduced generally laterally into vertebral bodies adjacent to the intervertebral implants and/or the intervertebral implants themselves, and a cable dimensioned to be coupled to the bone screws and manipulated to adjust and/or correct the spinal deformity. |
| US09566089B2 |
External fixation assembly and method of use
An external fixation assembly includes a plurality of hollow pins that are inserted into a patient's bone. Each pin has an interior bore and a plurality of apertures extending through the pin wall from the bore. The pin may be coupled to a source of vacuum pressure operable to create reduced pressure in the tissue surrounding the pin. A cover is placed around the pin and sealed to provide a fluid-tight enclosure that maintains reduced pressure around the pin. A method for applying external fixation using the fixator pins described above includes the steps of inserting each pin through a skin opening, positioning the pin apertures near selected tissue, covering the skin opening with a sealed enclosure, connecting the pins to a source of vacuum pressure, and activating the source of vacuum pressure to create reduced pressure in the patient's tissue at or near the bone. |
| US09566088B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for treating the skin
According to some embodiments, a method of treating a skin surface of a subject comprises heating a skin surface, abrading native skin tissue of a subject using a microdermabrasion device, wherein using the microdermabrasion device comprises moving the microdermabrasion device relative to the skin surface while simultaneously delivering at least one treatment fluid to the skin surface being treated and cooling the abraded skin surface. |
| US09566085B2 |
Fluid ejection device
A fluid ejection device includes: a fluid ejection unit that ejects a fluid in a pulsed manner; a fluid accommodation portion that accommodates the fluid at a predetermined pressure or higher; a fluid supply unit that supplies the fluid accommodated in the fluid accommodation portion to the fluid ejection unit; a connection channel that connects the fluid ejection unit and the fluid accommodation portion, and acts as a channel through which the fluid flows; an opening and closing unit that opens and closes the connection channel; and a control unit that sends an open signal for opening the connection channel to the opening and closing unit, and sends an ejection signal for ejecting the fluid to the fluid ejection unit. The control unit sends the ejection signal after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed from the sending of the open signal. |
| US09566083B2 |
Surgical instrument with end effector assembly
An endoscopic instrument includes an elongate hollow member, an actuator that moves axially through the hollow member, and first and second end effectors with respective tissue engaging edges. At least one of the end effectors is rotatably coupled to the hollow member adjacent its distal end. At least one of the end effectors includes a base supporting a resilient leaf-spring portion that includes a respective cutting edge. The resilient leaf-spring portion extends from the base in a cantilevered arrangement and generates a spring force acting on the respective cutting edge such that in a loaded state there is an automatic preload force imparted between the cutting edges of the end effectors to maintain a consistent and continuous mating force between the two opposed tissue engaging edges preferably over the complete range of rotational movement of the end effectors. |
| US09566081B2 |
Actuation grip for a microsurgical instrument, and microsurgical instrument
An actuation grip for a microsurgical instrument, with an inner shaft, which is surrounded coaxially and cylindrically by an outer shaft, wherein the shafts are axially movable relative to each other. Two pivotable grip parts, each with two ends, are coupled pivotably at a proximal end of the actuation grip. On each grip part, a first lever is articulated rotatably via an attachment point between the ends of the grip part, wherein the two first levers are coupled rotatably to each other at an intersection point between their ends. The first levers are each connected rotatably to a second lever at their ends directed away from the grip parts, such that the first levers form, with the second levers, a double scissor hinge which serves to move the two shafts axially relative to each other, in order to use this movement to actuate a surgical tool. |
| US09566079B2 |
Single probe with disturber
A single probe percutaneous surgical instrument for de-bulking/removing thrombus/clog/calculi has an actuator assembly (4), a probe set (13), an operating switch (10), and a generator (12). The actuator assembly (4) has a proximal end (4a) and a distal end (4b), a cable connector (1), a suction connector (2), and actuator switch (3) mounted with the proximal end (4a) and a horn (5) mounted at the distal end (4b). The probe set (13) is mounted to the horn (5) and includes at least one disturber (6), a spring (7), a 10 spring adjusting nut (8) and a fixed probe (9), the cable connector (1) connecting to the generator (12) through a cable, and the suction connector (2) connecting to a suction system. The actuator switch (3) controls a probe vibration mode through the generator (12), the actuator assembly (4) comprising at least two piezoelectric ceramic rings (18) assembled with a bolt (15), the horn (5) and a back plated (16). The horn (5) is mounted on the distal end (4b) of the actuator assembly (4), the horn (5) being coupled with the bolt (15) and the piezoelectric rings (18), the at least one disturber (6) and the spring (7) being mounted on the fixed probe (9) using the spring adjusting nut (8). The generator (12) includes a microprocessor and the microprocessor is programmed to control the actuator vibration mode, the fixed probe optimal vibration frequency and the disturbing strength of the disturbers. |
| US09566077B2 |
Pneumatically actuatable surgical instrument
In a pneumatically actuatable surgical instrument comprising a handle and a pressurized gas operated tool arranged at the handle, a replaceable pressurized gas reservoir and a locking device for fixing the pressurized gas reservoir on the handle in an operative position in which the pressurized gas reservoir is connected to a pressurized gas channel by which the tool is supplied with pressurized gas, it is proposed, in order to improve the handling of the pressurized gas reservoir, that the instrument further comprises an unlocking device for releasing the fixing of the pressurized gas reservoir in the operative position. |
| US09566075B2 |
Patient specific surgical guide locator and mount
A resection guide locator includes a bone engagement portion with surfaces that are complementary to the surface topographies of a bone to be resected during surgery. A housing includes a socket defined by a resilient annular wall that is sized and arranged so to accept a resection guide by press-fit to thereby position and hold the resection guide within the socket. The resection guide is maintained in a predetermined, preferred position while the surfaces are releasably locked in position on the bone. A method is disclosed for forming and using the resection guide locator. |
| US09566074B2 |
Saw blade stability and collet system mechanism
A surgical system for cutting tissue of a patient includes an outer housing and a reciprocating assembly structurally configured to carry a cutting tool in a reciprocating motion. An actuator knob is manually accessible to the user and may be fixed axially to the outer housing. The reciprocating assembly may reciprocate relative to the actuator knob. The actuator knob may be configured for rotational movement between a lock position and an unlock position. The system may also include a locking mechanism configured to retain a cutting tool within the reciprocating assembly. The locking mechanism may be responsive to movement of the actuator knob to maintain the tool within the output shaft when the actuator knob is in the lock position and permit removal of the tool when the actuator knob is in the unlock position. Surgical cutting tools, such as blades include thickness enhancing features. |
| US09566073B2 |
Devices, systems, and methods for atrial appendage occlusion
Devices, systems and methods for atrial appendage occlusion. A device is described with respect to non-surgically occluding the left atrial appendage with minimal invasiveness. Additionally, a system and method are described for using the device to perform the left atrial appendage occlusion procedure. |
| US09566066B2 |
Attachable clamp for surgical stapler
A surgical fastener applying instrument including a handle portion, an elongated portion, a pair of jaw members and a removable clamp. One of the jaw members contains a plurality of fasteners arranged in at least one row substantially transverse to a longitudinal axis of the elongated portion. At least one of the jaw members is movable with respect to the other between an open position and an approximated position for engaging body tissue therebetween. The removable clamp has an elongated member and a tissue clamping surface extending substantially transverse to a longitudinal axis of the elongated member. The clamp is movable from a proximal position to a distal position for engaging body tissue and is releasably mountable to the elongated portion of the instrument. |
| US09566065B2 |
Apparatus and methods for surgical stapler clamping and deployment
A surgical stapling apparatus configured to perform stapling and/or cutting operations on a target tissue of a patient. The surgical stapling apparatus comprises of a mode selection switch to place the apparatus in either a clamping operational phase or a deployment operational phase. In the clamping operational phase, various clamp components are operated to facilitate loading of surgical staples into the stapling apparatus, if not preloaded, placement of the stapling apparatus to a target surgical site, and clamping of target tissue to be stapled and/or cut. In the deployment operational phase, various deployment components are operated to staple and/or cut the target tissue to one or more desired distance intervals to achieve the desired outcome for the surgical procedure. |
| US09566063B2 |
Fasteners and fastener delivery devices for affixing sheet-like materials to bone or tissue
A fastener for attaching a sheet-like implant to tissue or bone may be provided with a first arm having a proximal end and a distal end, a second aim having a proximal end and a distal end, and a bridge extending therebetween. Each of the first and second arms include a trunk portion defining at least a portion thereof, the trunk portion having a lateral extent larger than a lateral extent of the bridge or non-trunk portion of the arm adjacent thereto and can be mounted eccentrically to the bridge or non-trunk portion of the arm adjacent thereto such that the staple includes a first change in lateral stiffness disposed proximate the bridge or non-trunk portion of the arm abutment with the trunk. Fastener delivery devices and methods are also disclosed. |
| US09566062B2 |
Surgical instrument with secondary jaw closure feature
An apparatus for operating on tissue includes an outer sheath, upper and lower jaws connected at a pivot point, and a firing beam comprising a distal pair of flanges. The firing beam is configured to be received within slots defined in the upper and lower jaws to close the jaws. A proximal portion of the upper jaw defines a lever arm, and a free end of the lever arm extends proximally past a distal end of the lower jaw and proximally past the pivot point. The lever arm includes a pair of segments defining a portion of the slot of the upper jaw. The segments are configured for receipt through an outer sheath aperture. The pair of segments are operable to abut a distal end of the distal pair of flanges or be driven by the distal pair of flanges to assist with closure of the jaws. |
| US09566060B2 |
Implant placement systems, devices and methods
Described herein is a simplified placement system and method for a tissue graft anchor by which a surgeon may introduce one or more sutures into a hole in a boney tissue, apply a precise amount of tension to the sutures to advance a soft tissue graft to a desired location, and then advance the anchor into the bone, preferably while maintaining the requisite pre-determined suture tension and without introducing spin to the suture. |
| US09566059B2 |
Laparoscopic device for anchoring an organ to thoracic diaphragm
Laparoscopic device for anchoring an internal organ to the thoracic diaphragm or abdominal wall of a patient having an introducer sheath; washer with two openings; T-fastener assembly having T-fastener with anchor having a shank with a crown and at least one fluke. The anchor is connected to the T-fastener by a flexible string. A thread is attached to the crown. An introducer needle introduces the T-fastener into a lumen of the internal organ of the patient The device further has a T-fastener pusher inside the introducer needle and locking arrangements for locking the introducer needle and the T-fastener pusher. A blocker blocks the first washer opening and a grasper, inserted through the second washer opening, grasps the shank inside the introducer sheath in a predefined orientation Finally, a holding mechanism on the introducer sheath is provided for holding the grasper in a predetermined position inside the introducer sheath. |
| US09566055B2 |
Cannula with deployable anchor wire and methods of use
A surgical instrument includes a first member comprising an end surface. A second member includes a flange and a first groove having a holding member movably disposed therein. A third member includes a lip and a second groove having the holding member movably disposed therein. The lip extends at an acute angle relative to an axis defined by the third member. The holding member is movable between a first configuration in which the holding member is disposed in the second groove and first and second portions of the holding member are positioned in the first groove and a second configuration in which the holding member is spaced apart from the second groove and the first and second portions of the holding member are spaced apart from the first groove. Systems and methods are disclosed. |
| US09566053B2 |
Cannula positioned targeting guide
The present invention provides a combination cannula positioned targeting guide adapted for angular receipt and support of a surgical instrument, the combination including an endoscopic portal having an enlarged membrane chamber having a rear port and an elongated portal cannula extending towards a portal tip, the rear port and the portal cannula being axially aligned; a portal stand extending from a substantially rectangular body towards an arcuate channel in communication with the enlarged membrane chamber; and the endoscopic portal being rotationally secured to the portal stand. |
| US09566050B2 |
Surgical method and apparatus
An apparatus for use in connection with an endoscopic surgery comprises an elongated body adapted to be placed at least partially in the vagina of a female patient partially passing through the wall of the vagina such that an end portion of said elongated element is introduced into rectouterine pouch; the elongated body comprises at least an attachment means for accommodating at least a part of at least a surgical instrument comprising an end portion adapted to be received inside the vagina, the surgical instrument and the apparatus are movable to each other. An endobag having an elongated port is provided through the vagina into the pelvis. A method for use in a pelvic or peritoneal surgery is provided wherein at least an elongated end portion of a surgical instrument is provided in the cavity of the uterus through the vagina of a female patient such that the uterus can be repositioned by manipulating the surgical instrument and an incision is performed on the vaginal wall for accessing to the rectouterine pouch, a flexible element is provided in pelvis wherein the flexible element is looped around the uterus such that the flexible element encircles the uterus. |
| US09566048B1 |
Surgical instrument with discrete cammed articulation
One example of a surgical apparatus may include an end effector; a shaft extending proximally from the end effector, the shaft including an articulation region; a handle including at least one button; an articulation gear held by the handle, where at least one cam path is defined in the articulation gear; and at least one holder post extending into each cam path; where actuation of one button causes the end effector to articulate through a discrete angular increment relative to the shaft. |
| US09566046B2 |
Biopsy needle
An embodiment of the present invention provides a kit of parts for use in a surgical procedure performed under image guidance, and particularly under real time image guidance. The kit includes a sterilized drape for use with the chosen imaging machine and which can be used to provide a sterile operating environment when the procedure is performed under the imaging beam. The kit also includes a needle holder that can keep the surgeon's hand away from the imaging beam. The needle holder is operable to hold a needle that is made from a material suitable for piercing tissue, but also substantially preserves the appearance of the needle when it is viewed under the imaging beam. |
| US09566044B2 |
Medical image display apparatus and ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus
According to one embodiment, a medical image display apparatus includes a storage unit storing data of a three-dimensional image, a slice image generating unit generating three slice images associated with three slices from the three-dimensional image, a display unit displaying the three slice images respectively in three display areas, an ROI marker generating unit generating three ROI markers to be respectively superimposed on the displayed three slice images, the three ROI markers corresponding to a single ROI, an operation unit performing operation of changing relative positions between the three slice images and the three ROI markers, and a display control unit controlling move the three slice images in the three display areas in accordance with the operation of changing the relative positions and fix the three ROI markers at center positions of the three display areas. |
| US09566043B2 |
Sensor guided catheter navigation system
A method and a system for producing images of a subject, such as the heart of a human being. The method may comprise acquiring ultrasound images of the subject with a catheter comprising a position sensor. The method may also comprise capturing a plurality of 4D surface registration points in the acquired ultrasound images corresponding to points on the subject. The method may also comprise registering, in space and time, a high-resolution 4D model of the subject with the plurality of 4D surface registration points. The method may also comprise displaying high resolution, real-time images of the subject during a medical procedure based on the registration of the high resolution 4D model to the 4D surface registration points. Embodiments of the present invention are especially useful in left atrium ablation procedures. |
| US09566042B2 |
Method for ultrasound imaging of a biopsy needle or the like during an ultrasound imaging examination
A method and apparatus for ultrasound imaging of a biopsy needle or the like during an ultrasound imaging examination, including the steps of alternately performing one or more imaging scans with ultrasound transmit and receive parameters which are adapted for optimized imaging and visualization of the needle and one or more imaging scans with ultrasound transmit and receive parameters adapted for optimized imaging and visualization of the body, in which the needle is inserted, injecting contrast agents in the region to be examined before imaging, and setting ultrasound transmit and receive parameters adapted for optimized imaging and visualization of the body. |
| US09566041B2 |
Adhesive patch having multiple acoustic sensors for monitoring acoustic signals
An adhesive patch for monitoring acoustic signals from a human or animal body, comprising a skin contact surface, converting means for recording both body acoustic signals and environmental acoustic noise, reducing the body signals by the recorded noise, and providing a first electric output signal. The patch also comprising an adhesive element and a compression structure for attaching the converting means to the skin surface. The patch further comprises transmitting means for transmitting the output signal to a peripheral device. |
| US09566037B2 |
Fleming method for tissue and vascular differentiation and metabolism (FMTVDM) using same state single or sequential quantification comparisons
The present invention defines the parameters whereby “quantification” of isotope emission may occur and be clinically applied and provides a method for detecting abnormal coronary blood flow by “quantifying” emissions of a radiopharmaceutical after stressing the heart either pharmacologically or physiologically under “same state” conditions of stress-stress for detection of ischemic vascular (IVD) disease and the ability to differentiate (a) ischemic heart disease (IHD) due to narrowed coronary lumen and subsequent reduced lumen responsiveness to demand for more coronary blood flow and (b) vulnerable inflammatory plaque (VIP) disease, which reduces lumen responsiveness to blood flow demand with potential for sudden rupture and sudden cardiac death. The present invention also provides a method of detection of myocyte viability by using the “quantitative” method to differentiate “normal” functioning cardiac tissue from non-viable “infarcted” cardiac tissue and from “stunned/hibernating” myocytes, which may benefit from intervention. The present invention further provides a method for detection of IVD by detecting enhanced thymic activity associated with IVD and treatable causes. The present invention does so while reducing total patient imaging time, patient table time, radiation isotope doses and exposure to both patient and others through primary and secondary exposure to isotope emissions. In one embodiment, the nuclear isotope is technetium-99m hexakis 2-methoxyisobutylisonitrile (sestamibi). |
| US09566034B2 |
Arrangement and method for visualizing an electrical signal
A method and a configuration for visualizing an electrical signal are provided with a stand, a movable part, an electromechanical actuator and a vessel. The movable part is movable by the electromechanical actuator in at least one stroke direction. The movable part is mechanically connected to the vessel. |
| US09566029B2 |
Method and device for assessing, training and improving perceptual-cognitive abilities of individuals
A device and method for evaluating or improving perceptual-cognitive abilities of a subject, comprising displaying virtual objects moving in a given three-dimensional environment during successive tests. The subject is in visual contact with the virtual objects moving in the three-dimensional environment, and the speed of movement of the virtual objects in the three-dimensional environment during the successive tests is changed. |
| US09566028B2 |
Lancet pricking device
A lancet pricking device comprising a lancet, a launching spring and a lancet holder for housing therein the lancet and the launching spring. The lancet pricking device of the present invention is characterized in that the lancet comprises a lancet body, a lancet cap and a pricking needle, and the pricking needle is disposed in both the lancet body and the lancet cap; wherein the launching spring is attached to the lancet body, and the lancet body is secured by abutting against the lancet holder such that the launching spring is kept compressed before a pricking operation; and wherein, when the lancet cap is removed, the lancet body becomes capable of warping upon being pressed from an outside to cause the secured lancet body to be released. |
| US09566026B2 |
Polymer membranes for continuous analyte sensors
Devices and methods are described for providing continuous measurement of an analyte concentration. In some embodiments, the device has a sensing mechanism and a sensing membrane that includes at least one surface-active group-containing polymer and that is located over the sensing mechanism. The sensing membrane may have a bioprotective layer configured to substantially block the effect and/or influence of non-constant noise-causing species. |
| US09566025B2 |
Image based oxygen saturation measuring device and method thereof
The present invention is an image based oxygen saturation measuring device and method thereof. The method comprises steps of providing a plurality of red lights and a plurality of infrared lights arranged uniformly in an interlocked fashion and turned on alternatively; controlling the plurality of red lights and infrared lights to irradiate onto a selected skin area of a testee to have a red light turn-on period and an infrared light turn-on period; receiving a reflected version of the plurality of red lights and infrared lights from the selected skin area, respectively; and analyzing one reflected red light and one infrared light to acquire an oxygen saturation index for each of the coordination points. By means of the present invention, the measurement of oxygen saturation may be much exempted from effects brought from exterior interference and poor blood circulation, and may achieve a large measurement area in a single time. |
| US09566020B2 |
System and method for assessing, measuring, and correcting an anterior-posterior bone cut
A system and method is disclosed herein for measuring anterior-posterior slope of a bone to set a cutting jig coupled to the muscular-skeletal system. The system comprises a sensored module that can be placed within a prosthetic component to measure anterior-posterior slope. The system further includes a remote system for receiving, processing, and displaying quantitative measurements from the sensors. A first bone and a second bone are placed in extension. A sensored module is referenced to a bone landmark of the first bone. The sensored module includes a three-axis accelerometer that is configured to measure position, tilt, and rotation. A bone cutting jig is coupled to the first bone. The sensored insert is coupled to the bone cutting jig. The accelerometer in the sensored insert is used to measure the anterior-posterior slope. The bone cutting jig is then adjusted to a predetermined anterior-posterior slope as measured by the sensored insert. |
| US09566018B2 |
Airway adaptor
An airway adaptor includes: an airway case; and an expired gas guiding portion which is connected to the airway case to introduce a respiratory gas to the airway case. The airway case includes: a first respiratory gas flow path in which the respiratory gas flows in a first direction; and a second respiratory gas flow path in which the respiratory gas flows in a second direction opposite to the first direction. |
| US09566017B2 |
Method and apparatus for identifying a user of an electronic device using bioelectrical impedance
A method for identifying a user of an electronic device is presented. In the method, for each of a plurality of users, a bioelectrical impedance of the user is measured, a value based on the measurement is generated, and the value is associated with information corresponding to the user. A bioelectrical impedance of a current user of the electronic device is also measured, and a value based on this measurement is generated. The value associated with the current user is compared with at least one of the values associated with the plurality of users. In response to the comparison, the electronic device is operated based on the information corresponding to one of the plurality of users in response to the current user interacting with the electronic device if the value associated with the current user indicates the current user is the one of the plurality of users. |
| US09566016B2 |
Method for visualizing multi-channel signals
The invention relates to a method for visualizing multi-channel sensor signals, especially myoelectric signals, which are derived from a limb or an amputation stump by way of electrodes, comprising the following steps: a display direction and a display amount are associated with each sensor signal, the display direction represents exactly one sensor signal, the display amount represents the intensity of the respective signal, the display direction and the display amount of all sensor signals are presented simultaneously in real time on a display device as a graphical object. |
| US09566010B2 |
Method for detecting cardiac status, method for monitoring cardiac status during exercise, and apparatus for monitoring cardiac status
A method for detecting cardiac status is provided. A user's heart rate is measured by a heart rate detection unit, and the user's acceleration or activity level is measured by an acceleration detection unit, which the activity level is calculated by the acceleration detection unit. A cardio force index is obtained by a calculating unit based on the heart rate, and the acceleration, or the weight as the following formula (Ia) or (Ib): CFI=(Weight×)Acceleration/Heart Rate (Ia) CFI=(Weight×)Activity Level/Heart Rate (Ib) The cardio force ratio is a ratio of the user as the following formula (II): Cardio Force Ratio=CFI of Exercise/CFI of Walking (II) A method for monitoring cardiac status during exercise and an apparatus for monitoring cardiac status are also provided. |
| US09566009B2 |
Partial aortic occlusion devices and methods for cerebral perfusion augmentation
Methods are provided for partial aortic obstruction for cerebral perfusion augmentation in patients suffering from global or focal cerebral ischemia. Alternatively, the methods can be used to partially obstruct aortic blood flow to condition the spinal cord to secrete neuroprotective agents prior to abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Partial obstruction of a vessel can be accomplished by a device comprising an elongate catheter and a distally mounted expandable member. The expandable member may comprise one or two balloons. Other medical devices, such as an angioplasty, stent, or atherectomy catheter, can be inserted distal the expandable member to provide therapeutic intervention. |
| US09566008B2 |
Biological signal processing apparatus and medical apparatus controlling method
A biological signal processing apparatus includes: a provider which provides state probability which corresponds to a value of a first biological signal; an acquirer which acquires a first biological signal in time series from a living body and which acquires state probability in time series which corresponds to a value of the acquired first biological signal from the provider; and a determiner which acquires determination probability based on the state probability acquired by the acquirer and which performs determination whether a process is performed or not by using the determination probability. |
| US09566001B2 |
Ophthalmologic apparatus
An ophthalmologic apparatus includes a reflective member that reflects light from a first scanning unit that scans an object to be examined with first light and light from a second scanning unit that scans the object with second light having a wavelength different from a wavelength of the first light so as to be applied to the object. The ophthalmologic apparatus includes an optical path synthesis and separation unit that is arranged on two optical paths from the scanning units to the reflective member, and synthesizes two optical paths from the scanning units to the object and separates an optical path of return light from the object into two optical paths on which the scanning units are arranged. A reflection optical path of the optical path synthesis and separation unit is arranged opposite to the object with respect to the optical path synthesis and separation unit. |
| US09565985B1 |
Sponge roller mop with quick release mechanism to remove a dirty sponge from the housing without having to touch the dirty or contaminated sponge also including a shotgun sponge wringing mechanism
A mechanism by which the mop of a sponge roller mop is released without a user having to touch a dirty mop so that the sponge can be released and replaced with a clean sponge, including a sponge pin molded onto the brace which retains the sponge. The mechanism includes a transverse section with a movable hole through which the crown from the sponge pin is inserted. The wall is moved by a transverse spring force so that the wall from the opening of the trigger mechanism is placed between the crown and a lower section of the sponge pin to thereby retain the crown within the rod retaining mechanism. When a pushbutton is pushed transversely, it overcomes the spring force so that the crown is released and a downward force from the vertical compression spring forces the crown downwardly and out of the trigger mechanism, thereby releasing the sponge. |
| US09565979B2 |
Hand drying
An arrangement incorporates a sink and a hand dryer which extends over the sink. The hand dryer is of the type which uses an air-knife mechanically to wipe the water from the user's hands. The hand dryer comprising two elongate air-knife discharge outlets—each outlet discharging a respective air-knife forwardly onto a hand of the user—the air-knife outlets being arranged side-by-side over the basin of the sink. Each air-knife outlet extends along a part of the hand dryer which is swept back at an angle such that the inboard end the air-knife outlet is in front of the outboard end of the air-knife outlet. |
| US09565976B2 |
Curved shower rod attachment
A curved shower rod attachment assembly, which includes a first element that is adapted and configured for attachment to a surface and a second element that is securable to the first element and includes a protrusion that has an opening formed therein that extending at an angle and is configured to receive a shower rod. The dual channel interlocking bracket allows a curved shower rod to hinge within the attachment assembly to preclude rotation and sagging. |
| US09565975B1 |
Infant and toddler bathtub chair
A bathtub chair is a planar support having a base rising upward to a first crest, extending downward therefrom to a though, rising upward therefrom to a second crest, and extending downward to a foot. The front base and rear foot are provided with a non-skid surface. An upper surface of the chair is provided with a non-skid cushion. An adjustment mechanism in the rear support base can be utilized to modify the tilt angle of the chair. The lower curve supports an occupant's legs and the larger curve supports the occupant's back and head. Maintaining the child's position minimizes water and soap flowing onto the child's face and eyes during washing. |
| US09565973B2 |
Cooking pan assembly
A cooking pan assembly includes a container for receiving food to be cooked. The container includes a bottom wall and a perimeter wall. The perimeter wall has an upper edge defining an opening into the container. A handle has a first end and a second end. A coupler releasably couples the first end to the perimeter wall adjacent to the upper edge. The coupler includes first mating member non-removably attached to the perimeter wall and a second mating member non-removably attached to the first end of the handle. The second mating member is releasably engaged to the first mating member. |
| US09565971B2 |
Food mounting assembly for a cooking appliance
A cooking appliance includes a lower housing having a lower heating element, an upper housing having an upper heating element, opposed frame members disposed between the upper housing and the lower housing and operatively connecting the lower housing to the upper housing. The cooking appliance further includes a food mounting assembly. The food mounting assembly includes a bracket extending between the opposed frame members for retaining a means for supporting food items over the lower heating element. |
| US09565970B2 |
Cooking system including a cooking hob and a cooking vessel
The cooking hob (1) comprises a continuous glass or glass ceramic support plate (2) having a treatment area (4) capable of supporting a cooking vessel (50). A drive motor (6) is operatively connected for rotating a lower magnetic coupling member (5) located below the support plate (2) at the treatment area (4). The cooking vessel (50) is provided with rotary blades (53) connected to an upper magnetic coupling member (54) magnetically coupleable to the lower magnetic coupling member (5) through the support plate (2). The cooking hob (1) and the cooking vessel (50) comprise respective components of detection means for detecting an angular position change of the cooking vessel (50) in relation to the treatment area (4) and electronic control means (30) are configured for modifying or stopping the operation of the electric drive motor (6) when the angular position change is detected. |
| US09565965B2 |
Kettle
A kettle comprising a base and a frame pivotally mounted relative to the base. The frame includes first electrical contacts connectable to a power source and a vessel is receivable in and removable from the frame. The vessel includes an internal element in connection with second electrical contacts and an opening from which liquid can be poured. When the vessel is received in the frame the first electrical contacts make connection with the second electrical contacts such that power is supplied to the internal element to heat water within the vessel. Pivoting of the vessel and frame relative to the base allows pouring of liquid, from the opening. |
| US09565963B2 |
Steam generator and cooking apparatus having the same
Disclosed herein are a steam generator capable of preventing water inflow into a cooking compartment and easily discharging water therefrom and a cooking apparatus having the steam generator. The steam generator includes a first part to store water therein, a second part extending from the first part and having a smaller width than the first part, a heater disposed in the first part to heat water in the first part, and a temperature sensor mounted to an outer surface of the first part to detect a temperature of the heater. Whether the steam generator lacks water is determined by detecting a temperature of the heater using the temperature sensor. |
| US09565962B2 |
Multi-functional fruit and vegetable shaping tool
A multi-functional fruit and vegetable shaping tool includes a main body and a separation member. The main body has a main wall surrounding a receiving space, and a plurality of cutters that have different functions and are formed in the main wall at angularly spaced-apart positions. The separation member is removably disposed in the receiving space to isolate at least one of the cutters that is selected for performing a desired function from the rest of the cutters. The separation member is connected non-rotatably to the main wall and divides the receiving space into an unshielded operative region proximal to the at least one of the cutters, and a shielded inoperative region proximal to the rest of the cutters. |
| US09565960B2 |
Mailbox comprising two compartments
Mailbox comprising at least two compartments, a first compartment for receiving letters and a second compartment for receiving packages, each compartment comprising a respective access door, first locking means being provided for locking the door of the first compartment and second locking means being provided for locking the door of the second compartment, wherein the arrangement is such that the unlocking of the door of the second compartment locked by the second locking means is made by the unlocking of the door of the first compartment locked by the first locking means. |
| US09565959B1 |
Tea tray assembly
A tea tray assembly includes a disc having a positioning groove in a top face thereof. A positioning hole extends from a bottom wall of the positioning groove through a bottom face of the disc. A water discharge box is mounted to the bottom face of the disc and includes a body having a water discharge chamber. The body further includes an abutment portion extending transversely from an upper edge thereof and abutting the bottom face of the disc. A tightening member includes a connecting portion extending through the positioning hole of the disc. A pressing and holding portion of the connecting portion is located in the positioning groove of the disc. An outer thread of the connecting portion securely engages with an inner thread of the water discharge box, retaining the pressing and holding portion to the bottom wall of the positioning groove. |
| US09565953B2 |
Truss based display system
A display unit comprising a plurality of vertical truss members anchored to a floor surface; a plurality of horizontal rails attached to the vertical truss members thereby forming a frame; a horizontal track anchored to a floor surface in front of the vertical truss members; a plurality of cantilever supports attached across the top of the frame, the cantilever supports each having a front portion providing an upper frame and lower frame; a plurality of upper rectangular panels mounted in a first row adjacent one another in the upper frames; a plurality of lower rectangular panels mounted in the lower frames adjacent one another a second row below the first row; first and second side panels anchored to the floor track and to a plurality of the horizontal rails; a plurality of cabinets located adjacent one another between the first and second side panels and anchored to the floor track and at least one of said horizontal rails; and a plurality of display panels disposed between the top surfaces of the cabinets and the lower edges of the lower rectangular panels. |
| US09565952B1 |
Modular display and dispensing apparatus with plural dispensing tiers and method
An apparatus and method display and dispense merchandise at plural dispensing tiers at a point-of-purchase adjacent a display shelf located at a given level and extending along lateral directions. The merchandise is in the form of packages arranged serially along each of at least lower and upper paths of travel spaced apart attitudinally and extending longitudinally toward corresponding lower and upper forward dispensing locations spaced apart attitudinally and placed at the point-of-purchase. Lower dividers are placed for juxtaposition with the lower serially arranged packages, and upper dividers are coupled with the lower dividers for juxtaposition with the upper serially arranged packages such that the lower and upper forward dispensing locations are placed spaced apart attitudinally to establish the plural dispensing tiers at the point-of-purchase. A pusher-track assembly is secured between lower dividers and between upper dividers for the selective dispensing of packages at the point-of-purchase. |
| US09565942B2 |
Mounting assemblies for a gaming device and associated methods
A mounting bracket includes a substantially planar panel defining a first edge, a second edge opposite the first edge, a first surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface. The substantially planar panel defines a tapered slot open at the first edge, extending from the first edge toward the second edge, and terminating in a slot apex opposite the first edge. A bracket receptor includes an annular projection and a shaft extending from the annular projection. The annular projection extends beyond one or more sides of the shaft. The shaft of the bracket receptor is selectively positioned within the slot apex of the mounting bracket such that the annular projection of the bracket receptor is positioned adjacent the first surface of the substantially planar panel and the shaft of the bracket receptor extends beyond the second surface of the substantially planar panel. |
| US09565941B2 |
Hinge locking member
A hinge is provided, including a base plate, a hinge arm movably associated with the base plate, an adjustment cam for adjusting a displacement of the hinge arm relative to the base plate, and a locking member for preventing the hinge arm from fully disassociating with the base plate, located immediately adjacent the adjustment cam, and adapted to connect the base plate to the hinge arm in a manner that does not interfere with a range of motion provided by the adjustment cam if the adjustment cam device experiences uncontrolled displacement. |
| US09565937B1 |
Ball joint pinion for a drawer slide assembly
A drawer assembly for a consumer appliance is provided. The drawer assembly includes an anti-racking system for minimizing misalignment of an appliance drawer. More particularly, the present subject matter provides a drawer slide assembly for a drawer having some horizontal flexibility. The drawer slide assembly may have a pinion gear and connecting rod assembly that minimizes racking of the appliance drawer as it is moved into and out an appliance chamber. The appliance drawer may be attached to the appliance chamber by a ball and joint pinion gear configuration that adds another degree of freedom to the anti-racking system in order to reduce stress on the pinion gear. By adding an additional degree of freedom to the pinion gear and reducing the imposed stresses applied to the pinion gear, the performance and lifetime of the drawer assembly may be improved. |
| US09565933B2 |
Bottle rack and kit for bottle-supporting assembly
A bottle rack includes a bottle-supporting assembly having an elongate portion and support bars connected to the elongate portion, with the support bars being spaced longitudinally along the elongate portion and suitable to support bottles therebetween; and a panel having support bar apertures suitable for the support bars of the bottle-supporting assembly to extend through. The bottle-supporting assembly is secured onto the panel with the support bars extending through the apertures of the panel. The bottle supporting assembly may be supplied in the form of a kit. |
| US09565932B2 |
Portable garment hanging system for a portable wardrobe bag
A very light weight portable garment rack includes a first hanging rod segment and a second hanging rod segment, insertable into the first hanging rod segment, to assemble a garment hanging rod. Both the first and second hanging rod segments have perpendicular stub segments. First and second stanchions have upper insertable segments for insertion into the perpendicular stub segments to support the garment hanging rod, and lower insertable segments. A bottom support frame has two stanchion mounting segments, each fitted to the receive the lower insertable segments of the respective first and second stanchions. The first and second stanchions each have an upper support member having the upper insertable segment and an upper support member lower insertable segment, and a lower support member having the lower insertable segment and fitted to receive the upper support member lower insertable segment to assemble the respective stanchion. |
| US09565929B2 |
Dine and draw child lap tray apparatus
A two-part tray apparatus that includes a base tray having a desk surface for drawing and writing and a food tray having four food compartments. A resilient bottom of the base tray may rest on a lap. The food tray is nestable into the base tray and is nonslideable relative to the base tray. The base tray includes a proximal side with no upwardly extending walls to make it easy for a child to write or draw on the desk surface. Strap units are included to anchor opposite ends of the tray apparatus or may be connected to each other to form a full length shoulder strap. |
| US09565927B2 |
Oral care implement having pressure sensor and method of forming the same
A toothbrush having a pressure sensor. In one embodiment, the invention can be a toothbrush comprising: a handle; a head; a plurality of tooth cleaning elements mounted to and extending from a front surface of the head; a printed circuit board located within the head, the printed circuit board having a front surface and a rear surface; a pressure sensor operably coupled to a front surface of the printed circuit board, wherein pressure applied to the plurality of tooth cleaning elements is transmitted to the pressure sensor; and a light source attached to a rear surface of the printed circuit board, wherein the light source is illuminated upon the pressure sensor being subjected to a pressure that exceeds a predetermined threshold. |
| US09565922B2 |
Light weight modular pouch attachment system and method
An attachment system for supporting holders on a carrier, including a platform with a front side having slits in a pattern of vertically aligned and spaced apart rows, for receiving one or more elongate straps in a vertical interlocking manner for supporting a holder against the front side, a back side opposing a surface of the carrier enclosing a generally flat pocket, the slits extending through the platform, defined and bounded by edges cooperable to form a barrier to passage of particulates through the slits while allowing passage of flat straps or tabs for interlockingly securing a holder against the front side and maintaining the barrier to passage of particulates through the slits about the straps, and the back side of the platform including a first fastening component of a hook and loop fastening system and the tabs including a second component fastenable to the first to secure the tabs. |
| US09565921B1 |
Mirror for applying eye cosmetics
A magnifying cosmetic mirror for use in applying cosmetics at the eye. The cosmetic mirror is constructed to have a base mirror and side mirrors extending at obtuse angles from opposite sides of the base mirror. The side mirrors are constructed as magnifying mirrors, such as spherical concave mirrors, of a focal length that provides a magnifying view of the eye when placed above the base mirror. The magnification of the side mirrors is selected according to the separation of the side mirrors from one another, and the angles at which they extend from the base mirror. |
| US09565920B2 |
Applicator device or dispenser with applicator tip assembly
An applicator device or dispenser includes an applicator tip assembly and a housing which may, in some examples, have a reservoir for containing a product, such as a cosmetics product or a medicinal product. The applicator tip assembly may be coupled to the housing and may comprise a thermal storage applicator portion having an application face for applying the product to a surface, the thermal storage applicator portion being made from a material that is capable of storing and retaining and/or transferring thermal energy during application of the product. The applicator tip assembly may further comprise a main body portion having a product delivery passageway extending through the main body portion for dispensing a product to the application face of the thermal storage applicator portion, the main body portion configured to at least partially enclose the thermal storage applicator portion at a periphery of the thermal storage applicator portion. |
| US09565919B2 |
Antiperspirant compositions and methods for making same
A consumer product comprising packaging including a product chamber and an outer jacket at least partially surrounding the product chamber; and an antiperspirant composition disposed within the product chamber, wherein the composition exhibits an average standard deviation of less than or equal to about 5 of penetration peak force measurements taken in accordance with a penetration test method as defined herein. |
| US09565913B2 |
Active suspension case for a mobile device
An improved protective case for a mobile device is disclosed herein. The protective case may comprise a base portion, a stop, and at least one sliding or moving impact section to assist in the absorption of impact. |
| US09565912B2 |
Cement finishing tool cover
Cement finishing tool cover is provided that is configured to cover a cement-finishing tool having a bundle of fibers affixed to a frame at one. The case having a pair of spaced opposite substantially parallel face panels having an inside surface and an outside surface. At least one of said inside surface of the pair of spaced opposite substantially parallel face panels is equipped with a hanging element that is designed to engage at least portion of the frame of the cement finishing tool so as to prevent the bundle of fibers from coming in contact with a surface when the case is placed on a surface. This protects the fibers from becoming disfigured and adversely affecting the finishing of a cement surface when used. |
| US09565911B2 |
Gift card presentation devices
The disclosed invention relates generally to various embodiments of holders and packaging for giving gifts. In particular, the invention relates to various gift card holders that hold a gift card and enhance the presentation and gift giving experience for recipients and gift givers alike. The holders and packing also permit a gift card disposed therein to be visible, scanned, accessed, or otherwise activated without removing the gift card from the holder. |
| US09565910B2 |
Waterproof protective case for an electronic device
A waterproof protective case can include a front portion and a back portion configured to attach to the front portion to form the protective case. The waterproof protective case may include a port cover for covering and sealing a port opening near a feature, such as an electrical port. The port cover may include a gasket to seal the port opening, as well as a flexible member with a thinned area that flexes to allow the port cover to open and close. The protective case may include an aperture covered by a membrane to allow sound transmission through the case, and the flexible member of the port cover may include at least one opening to allow sound transmission through the flexible member. The port cover may also include an aperture covered by a membrane to allow sound transmission through the port cover. |
| US09565908B2 |
Apparatus and methods for carrying footwear
An apparatus for carrying foldable footwear that comprises a drawstring pouch having a side pocket that reversibly adjusts between undrawn and drawn states. When undrawn, the pouch is characterized by an opening at the top of the pouch that is dimensioned and configured for receiving a pair of foldable shoes in an interior of the pouch. When drawn, the pouch is characterized by a drawstring arranged on the upper portion sealing off the opening, thereby concealing the interior of the pouch. The apparatus further comprises a collapsible tote bag removably inserted in the side pocket, where the tote bag is configured to reversibly convert between unfolded and folded states. When unfolded, the tote bag is characterized by an interior portion that receives a pair of unfolded shoes, where the interior portion further includes a storage pocket. When folded, the tote bag is completely contained within the second pocket. |
| US09565905B2 |
Lower stop assembly for quick release slide fasteners
A lower stop assembly for slide fasteners comprises a left stop member and a right stop member. The inside of the right stop member is provided with a right slot and an annular orifice both extending in the direction of the inside, the annular orifice being located at the front end of the right slot and in direct communication with an opening of the right slot. The left stop member can be movably inserted into the opening of the right slot and then released from lateral notches of the right slot. As the left stop member can be released from the lateral notches of the right slot, when the left stop member needs to retreat from the right slot, the left stop member may rotate around the outer lateral wall of the annular orifice under the drive of the left slide fastener belt to come out from the right slot. |
| US09565901B2 |
Shoe toe shaping clamping device
A shoe toe shaping clamping device has a mold base and multiple clamping units. The mold base has a mold body. Each clamping unit has a clamping base, a bottom clamping unit, a top clamping unit, a clamping space, and a depth adjusting unit. The bottom clamping unit is mounted on the clamping base, is adjacent to the mold body, and has a bottom clamping surface. The top clamping unit is mounted on the clamping base and has a top clamping surface. The clamping space is formed between the top clamping surface and the bottom clamping surface. The depth adjusting unit is mounted on the bottom clamping unit and shelters two sides of the clamping space. The shoe toe shaping clamping device is applied for clamping a vamp to form a shoe toe. |
| US09565900B2 |
Shoe sole portion painting system
Automated painting of a shoe sole portion is enhanced by use of a mask cover and an air knife with a paint assembly. The mask cover is positioned in front of a paint-emitting portion of a spray nozzle and is adapted to obstruct at least a portion of the paint intended to be emitted by the spray nozzle. The air knife is coupled to the mask cover and is adapted to emit a laminar fluid flow over the mask cover. The laminar fluid flow helps to limit unwanted diffusion of the paint as it passes along its intended spray path. |
| US09565897B2 |
Footwear component for an article of footwear
A footwear component and a method of making the footwear component are disclosed. The footwear component includes a first portion and a second portion that are joined at a transition zone. The first portion and the second portion have different flexibility characteristics. The footwear component can bend at the transition zone to accommodate the natural bending of a foot. The method can include removing material from a preformed member and applying layers of different materials to form a component with different properties in different regions. |
| US09565892B2 |
Lateral support system for feet
A stability system is formed from a support wedge having a bottom, an inner surface and an outer surface and a bottom platform connected to the bottom of the support wedge and extending past the inner surface to create a space for receiving a bottom of the shoe. There are attachment devices connected to the support wedge and bottom platform for connecting the stability system to a shoe. The support wedge is formed from an elastic material that compresses to a predetermined degree upon application of a downward force, such that the stability system exerts increasing resistance as the downward force increases. |
| US09565891B2 |
Skate boot with improved flexibility
A method of making a skate boot including manufacturing a rear element including a tendon guard for covering at least a rear portion of the ankle received within the boot, and forming a direct connection at a fixed position between contacting portions of the rear element and of a remainder of the skate boot separately from the quarters, the direct connection being formed such that the rear element is an external element of the boot and such that an upper portion of the rear element is displaceable relative to the quarters in a forward and rearward direction, the upper portion of the rear element being displaceable through flexing of the rear element about the connection. |
| US09565890B2 |
Retaining device and spike devices for shoes
An apparatus including a retaining device and a plurality of flexible memory spike devices for golf. The retaining device may be adapted to be temporarily attached to a shoe. The retaining device may be adapted so that the plurality of spike devices can be attached or detached from the retaining device. The retaining device may be made of an elastomeric material. The retaining device may have a plurality of openings, and each of the plurality of spike devices can be at least partially inserted into a corresponding one of the plurality of openings to attach each of the plurality of spike devices to the retaining device. |
| US09565886B2 |
Protective headgear
A head protection system includes an elastomeric cap configured to be held in a position relative to a crown of the head of the wearer. A torus-shaped cushioning chamber is positioned between an outer surface of the elastomeric cap and the head of the wearer. A plurality of cage slats extend from the elastomeric cap between the elastomeric cap in a position relative to the crown of the head of the wearer and protect the head of the wearer from impact. |
| US09565880B2 |
Article of clothing for storing and deploying a scarf
A clothing article surrounds a wearer's upper torso. The article includes connected front portion, a collar. A sleeve is formed in the front portion. A jacket, and coat with an attachable/detachable scarf will be folded and stored in the inter portion of the front side of the collar area with elastic at each end and Velcro onto the inner portion of your collar, therefore eliminating the lost of them by any consumers, and especially children. A sleeve like collar attached to the coat and jacket for storing a scarf and making it easily deployable while in use. |
| US09565879B2 |
Clothing clip apparatus and method for using same
A clothing clip apparatus and a method for using same secure a garment in a position to allow a woman to nurse a child. A strap having a clip at one end and a ring at an opposite end secure the garment. The clothing clip apparatus attaches to a collar of the garment. The strap is dropped inside the garment, and the user grabs the ring and lifts the garment into a position for nursing the child. The ring is positioned over a top end of the clip to form a loop with the strap around the garment. Magnetic attraction between the ring and a magnet retains the garment in the desired position. The method of securing the garment using the clothing clip apparatus may be performed by the woman using one hand without assistance. A system holds a cover over the garment. |
| US09565874B2 |
Smoking article and method of manufacturing a smoking article
A smoking article comprises a first part and a second part movable relative to the first part. A control mechanism comprises a first control surface on one of the first part or second part; and a second control surface on the other of the first and second parts. The second control surface is configured to engage with the first control surface to control relative rotation between the first part and second part. |
| US09565873B2 |
Method of producing pulp for use in electronic cigarette and traditional hookah
The present application is related to an electronic cigarette liquid and a method of producing pulp for use in the electronic cigarette liquid, the method includes: using a stainless steel bathing can with a 500 Liter capacity that can endure heating and pressurizing; placing the pulp and original liquid used for bathing inside the can at a pre-determined ratio. After heating, pressurizing and bathing, the absorption of the pulp is fully attained. Then, opening a ball valve and releasing and collecting only the liquid from the bathing can and taking out the viscous pulp for packaging. The hookah pulp product is obtained with a solid extract of the hookah pulp product being 90% or above of the hookah pulp product. |
| US09565870B2 |
Dispensing nozzle with an ultrasound activator
A dispensing nozzle comprising an ultrasound emitter is disclosed. A wall of the ultrasound emitter defines a channel. The ultrasound emitter comprises an inlet, a top and a bottom. The bottom of the ultrasound emitter may comprise a conical outlet. The conical outlet comprises an outer diameter that decreases in size in a direction towards an outlet opening defined by the conical outlet. The channel may extend from the inlet to the conical outlet. The dispensing nozzle further comprises a tube. The tube may be configured to deliver free-flowing material to the inlet. The ultrasound emitter may be configured to deliver ultrasound waves to free-flowing material flowing through channel. The ultrasound emitter may be configured to induce cavitation in free-flowing material passing through the conical outlet. The cavitation may be sufficient to destroy microorganisms and reduce microbial contamination of the free-flowing material dispensed from the dispensing nozzle. |
| US09565864B2 |
Method for preserving Ziziphus jujuba
A method for preserving Ziziphus jujuba, including: 1) preservation treatment of the Ziziphus jujuba harvested by a) fumigation and b) soaking the Ziziphus jujuba in a liquid preservative at room temperature; 2) air-drying the soaked Ziziphus jujuba and placing it into polyethylene bags, and then placing the Ziziphus jujuba into an inner atmosphere of a jacketed cold and controlled atmosphere storage warehouse and cooling it at 4° C. for 24-48 hours; and after slowly reducing the temperature of the inner atmosphere to −3.0±0.1° C. over a period of 6 days, closing off the inner atmosphere and controlling its composition. During the cooling step, air is circulated between the inner atmosphere and the outer atmosphere of the jacketed cold and controlled atmosphere storage warehouse. |
| US09565861B2 |
Method of making shaped baked goods
Systems, methods, and formulas are disclosed for producing a shaped baked good with a rounded shape. In one embodiment, the formula may include a high melting point fat and a granular sugar at a weight ratio of about 1:1 to form a rounded cookie piece that minimizes flattening during baking. The cookie composition may be formed by passing a cookie dough between opposing rollers or press plates to form a web. The web may then be baked, rehydrated, separated, and deflashed to form individual rounded cookie pieces. |
| US09565858B2 |
Aqueous alcoholic microbicidal compositions comprising zinc ions
Compositions which impart a microbicidal benefit to treated surfaces which compositions comprise (or in certain preferred embodiments may consist essentially of, or may consist of): a zinc ion source material which releases zinc ions into the treatment composition, preferably a source of Zn++ ions; preferably at least from about 20% wt. of at least one alcohol, which is preferably a lower alkyl monohydric alcohol and water, optionally one or more further surfactants, further optionally one or more constituents which impart one or more advantageous technical or aesthetic benefits to the compositions, including one or more detersive surfactants; and water, wherein the composition has a pH of at least 4, preferably at least 5, wherein the surface treatment compositions, exhibit a microbicidal or germicidal or antimicrobial effect on treated inanimate surfaces, characterized in exhibiting a microbicidal benefit when tested against one or more challenge microorganisms, according to one or more of the following standardized test protocols: ASTM E1052 Standard Test Method for Efficacy of Antimicrobial Agents against Viruses in Suspension, or ASTM E1053 Standard Test Method to Assess Virucidal Activity of Chemicals Intended for Disinfection of Inanimate, Nonporous Environmental Surfaces, or European Standard Surface Test, EN13697, or AOAC Germicidal Spray Products as Disinfectant Test Method, AOAC Index, 17th Ed. (2000), preferably against poliovirus type 1 (Sabin) (“PV1”). |
| US09565850B2 |
Trap bracket
An article of manufacture for use by trappers of fur bearing animals. The article of manufacture consists of a body having a plurality of circular apertures therethrough and a plurality of elongated apertures therethrough. And, a method for positioning a trap for trapping a fur bearing animal, the method using the article of manufacture provided the trap has a tang, by the steps of: (a) positioning the article of manufacture to an object; and (b) inserting said tang into one of the elongated apertures of the article. If the trap does not have a tang, but does have a coil spring, then a clip having a tang can be inserted into the spring to adapt the trap for positioning according to the method of the instant invention. |
| US09565849B1 |
Rodent trap
A rodent trap is provided including a base having a release door formed therein to release rodents from the trap. A bait tray is provided having a cavity for retaining bait. The bait tray is removably attached to the base. The release door is sealed when the bait tray is attached to the base. The release door is opened when the bait tray is removed from the base. A top is provided having a tube with a tube opening extending therethrough. The tube opening sized to receive a rodent therethrough. A wire body extends between the top and the base. |
| US09565846B2 |
Waste baskets or the like, with insect traps
A container is combined with a base having insect combating features, i.e. for trapping and/or poisoning of insects, preferably but not necessarily combined with insect attracting elements. In particular, the container may be a waste basket, and the targeted insects may be bed bugs, and/or roaches, and/or ants. The assembly has a container portion and a base portion. The interior of the base portion is accessible by insects via one or more small gaps or openings, and contains the trapping and/or poisoning elements, which may include a replaceable glue strip or the like. Preferably, the assembly is also be provided with insect attracting means, which may include chemical attractants, carbon dioxide generation, and/or heat. In some embodiments, separate areas may be provided to combat different insects. |
| US09565844B2 |
Fishing weight
Disclosed is a hollow plastic fishing weight comprising three separate bodies, which include a hemispherical body, a tapered cylindrical body and a concave lid. All three bodies are glued together to form a single piece of the hollow plastic fishing weight. An eye is attached on the hemispherical body and the concave lid at both ends of the fishing weight. A lead weight is placed inside the fishing weight that makes the lower part of the fishing weight heavier than the top part. A plurality of pellets are placed inside the fishing weight that produce sound to attract fish towards bait. |
| US09565842B1 |
Multiple barb fish hook
A fish hook of generally conventional design with the unique features of having a point section of a pyramidal shape with a triangular cross-section. The three sides of the point section are either flat-sided or slightly concave facets extending from the point to the base of the point section. The hook has at least three barbs of different sizes with at least one barb on each edge of the cross-section. The smallest barb is near the point, and the barbs increase in size in increments down to the largest (conventional) barb at the base of the point section. The barb positions rotate sequentially in 120 degree increments around the axis of the point section from the top barb near the point to the bottom barb at the base of the point section. This multiple barb arrangement and the cutting edges of the facets results in increased and more secure hookups. |
| US09565840B2 |
Fibrotic non-human animal, and use thereof
The present invention provides a non-human animal IKKβ which shows fibrosis of tissue, since it lacks IKKβ gene in a myofibroblast- and/or smooth muscle cell-specific manner. Since the non-human animal shows pathology highly similar to scleroderma, it is extremely useful as an animal model of scleroderma. |
| US09565835B1 |
Laser and string animal toy
A laser and string animal toy having a base assembly and an arm assembly comprising a stand post that extends upward from the base assembly and a horizontally protruding flexible member attached to the stand post. A housing is attached to the flexible member. A first actuator assembly is located within the housing and a string attached to the first actuator assembly first actuator assembly moves (via a motor) the string moves around and up and down. The housing also retains a second actuator assembly that produces a downward directed laser dot. The second actuator assembly moves the laser dot across the floor. |
| US09565834B2 |
Animal brushing arrangement and method of operating animal brushing arrangement
An animal brushing arrangement and method wherein a support part, a brush, an electric motor and a rotation sensor are provided. The electric motor is arranged to rotate the brush about a rotation axis, and the rotation sensor is arranged to detect a rotational movement about the rotation axis that is caused by an external force applied to the brush, such as by an animal, when the motor is not operating, a detection of such a rotational movement being operative to activate the motor. |
| US09565833B2 |
System and method of identifying a domestic animal
A system including: a self-contained unit including a first data carrier having an electronic identification device that is readable by radio frequency and the reading of which activates an electronic data sheet in a first database; and a third data carrier including a second identification code readable by an optical reader. A method is also described which uses the reading of the third data carrier to activate an electronic data sheet in a second database, and to allow the associative data between both identification codes to be visualized. |
| US09565832B2 |
Pivotal cover assembly for a poultry drinker
A pivotal cover assembly for a poultry drinker includes a sleeve that fits over the top of a drinker. Connected to the sleeve and extending upwardly from the drinker is a primary support. Pivotally connected to the primary support, in spaced relation to the drinker, is a cover member. |
| US09565828B2 |
Republic lettuce variety
A new lettuce variety designated ‘Republic’ is described. ‘Republic’ is an iceberg lettuce variety exhibiting stability and uniformity. |
| US09565825B1 |
Maize inbred PH25BF
A novel maize variety designated PH25BF and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH25BF with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH25BF through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are provided. Hybrid maize seed, plants or plant parts are produced by crossing the variety PH25BF or a locus conversion of PH25BF with another maize variety. |
| US09565824B1 |
Maize inbred PH2FDW
A novel maize variety designated PH2FDW and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH2FDW with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2FDW through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are provided. Hybrid maize seed, plants or plant parts are produced by crossing the variety PH2FDW or a locus conversion of PH2FDW with another maize variety. |
| US09565822B1 |
Soybean variety XR37AE15X
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated XR37AE15X. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety XR37AE15X. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety XR37AE15X and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety XR37AE15X with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09565819B2 |
Bean variety SV6533GR
The invention provides seed and plants of the bean line designated SV6533GR. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of bean line SV6533GR, and to methods for producing a bean plant produced by crossing a plant of bean line SV6533GR with itself or with another bean plant, such as a plant of another line. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of a plant of bean line SV6533GR, including the pods and gametes of such plants. |
| US09565815B1 |
Maize inbred PH25KS
A novel maize variety designated PH25KS and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH25KS with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH25KS through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH25KS or a locus conversion of PH25KS with another maize variety. |
| US09565811B2 |
External cultivation liquid siphon
An external cultivation liquid siphon includes a liquid delivery equipment located in a cultivation liquid storage tank to continuously pump cultivation liquid to a plant cultivation pot and an external siphon equipment to bridge the cultivation liquid storage tank and the plant cultivation pot. The external siphon equipment has a tubular facility with variations in tubular diameters to generate siphonage action to fill the tubular facility with flowing liquid. Thus the cultivation liquid pumped by the liquid delivery equipment to the plant cultivation pot can circulate reciprocally between an upper liquid level and a lower liquid level to cultivate plants. |
| US09565810B2 |
Automated sprinkler control system
Aspects of the disclosure relate to a method that may include receiving a watering restriction for a location, detecting that a sprinkler controller is associated with a property within the location, and transmitting, to the sprinkler controller, the watering restriction. Additionally, a method may include receiving, at a sprinkler controller, a watering restriction for a location, the sprinkler controller associated with a property within the location, and adjusting, in response to the watering restriction, a sprinkling schedule for the property. Furthermore, a method may include receiving weather prediction information associated with a property, updating, in response to the weather prediction information, a sprinkling schedule for a sprinkler system associated with the property, receiving, after a time period, updated weather prediction information for the property, and updating the sprinkling schedule based on a comparison between the sprinkling schedule and the weather prediction information over the time period. |
| US09565806B2 |
Manually actuated scissors
For manually actuated shears with a ratchet mechanism it is proposed to provide an additional lever that circumvents the ratchet mechanism and enables the operation of the shears in a direct cut mode in which a single closing process of the handle levers also causes complete closing of the blade arrangement. |
| US09565804B2 |
Enhancing secondary phytochemical and nutrients in plants and plant parts
According to the invention, the object is achieved by providing all necessary conditions at optimum level to produce plant and plant parts having higher nutrients and secondary metabolites, when compared to normal plants or grown in tap water. Formulated solution containing balanced nutrients, higher levels of targeted nutrient, required pH, single or multiple eliciting factors, required concentrations of natural preservatives and maintained at required temperature and light facilitated to achieve the above object. |
| US09565802B2 |
Crop sensing system and method with immediate gap detection
An agricultural machine includes a crop row sensor which has a movable paddle which interacts with plants in the crop row, and which periodically generates a sensor signal representing a position of the paddle. A signal processing system includes a memory which stores a plurality of sensor signals. The system determines a minimum magnitude of the stored sensor signals, and generates a drop rate signal representing a change in the sensor signal in a period of time. A gap detection unit generates the gap signal if the minimum signal is less than a threshold and if the drop rate is greater than a drop rate threshold. Thus, the system generates a gap signal when the paddle encounters a gap in the crop row. |
| US09565801B2 |
Decoring mechanism with mechanized harvester
A mechanical harvester for harvesting produce with a core planted in a field is provided. The mechanical harvester includes a chassis, a positioning apparatus, a decoring device, and a transport assembly. The positioning apparatus is connected to the chassis and configured to position the produce in the ground for harvesting and decoring. The decoring device is connected to the positioning apparatus and configured to sever the core of the produce while the produce is in the ground. The transport assembly is connected to the chassis and configured to lift the cut produce from the ground and transport the cut produce to a processing unit or a storage container. |
| US09565800B2 |
Windrow shield control system for a header of an agricultural harvester
An agricultural harvester is provided which includes a chassis and harvesting wheels, transport wheels and windrow shields connected to the chassis. The transport wheels are deployed in concert with the windrow shields in order to avoid damage to the windrow shields during placement of the transport wheels into an operative, ground contacting position. A first actuator opens and closes the windrow shields for field and transport operations and windrow shield positioning mechanisms are configured to dispose the windrow shields in a plurality of cut crop opening widths when the windrow shields are in an open position. The first actuator is operated remotely in-cab to eliminate need for the harvester operator to dismount the harvester and open and close the windrow shields for field and road transport operations. The windrow shield positioning mechanisms may be manually adjusted or automatically adjusted in-cab. |
| US09565799B1 |
Puncturevine burr picker
A device usable for picking up puncturevine burrs comprises a cylindrical roller member, a scraper, a catch, a support member, and a handle member. The cylindrical roller member has a rotational axis and has an outside surface layer made of a resilient material such that the burrs will readily stick into the material. The scraper scrapes the surface of the roller member when the roller member rotates about its rotational axis. The support member holds the scraper and catch so that the scraper scrapes over the surface of the roller member during rotation. In operation, a user pushes the device over the area of the ground with burrs. Under the weight of the device itself, the burrs are picked up by the roller member and are scraped off of the roller member by the scraper, and are retained by the catch. Burrs that collect in the catch are disposed of. |
| US09572295B2 |
Electronic component mounting system, electronic component mounting method, and electronic component mounting machine
In an electronic component mounting method, a light-emitting element is temporarily fixed to a board by solder paste and adhesive, the adhesive is cured to fix a main body of the light-emitting element to the board, and solder is melted to bond a terminal of the light-emitting element to the board. The method includes: detecting a positional deviation of an emission portion in a top surface of the light-emitting element; detecting a position of the light-emitting element in a state in which the light-emitting element is held by an absorption nozzle; positioning the emission portion to a prescribed position on the board based on the positional deviation and the position of the light-emitting element; mounting the light-emitting element on the board at a position deviated from the prescribed position by the positional deviation; curing the adhesive; and heating the board to melt the solder. |
| US09572294B2 |
Circuit device and method for manufacturing same
Provided are: a circuit device which has improved connection reliability in a solder joint portion by suppressing the occurrence of sink of solder; and a method for manufacturing the circuit device. In a method for manufacturing a circuit device of the present invention, a plurality of solders (19), which are apart from each other, are firstly formed on the upper surface of a pad (18A), and a chip component (14B) and a transistor (14C) are affixed at the same time. After that, a solder paste (31) is supplied to the upper surface of the pad (18A) using a syringe (30), a heatsink (14D) is mounted on top of the solder paste (31), and melting is caused by a reflow process. There is little risk of sinking of the solders (19) in the present invention since the solders (19) are discretely arranged on the upper surface of the pad (18A). |
| US09572291B2 |
Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing same
A semiconductor device includes: a block module which internally includes a power semiconductor element and a first heatsink, and from which a main circuit terminal and a control terminal are drawn; a control substrate connected to the control terminal; a package in which the block module and the control substrate are housed; and a second heatsink to which the package is fixed by a connection screw. The connection screw is inserted into the second heatsink so as to be inclined at an inclination angle θ relative to a normal to a surface of the second heatsink. |
| US09572289B2 |
Data center with cooling system
Data center includes a first container and a second container containing data racks therein. The first container includes an air intake for inputting outside cooling air into the first container. The second container contacts the first container via a base between the first container and the second container. The base defines a cooling air passage and heated air passage both communicating the first container and the second container. The cooling air passage inputs cooling air from the first container to the second container. The heated air passage inputs heated air from the second container to the first container. |
| US09572285B2 |
Pluggable module for a communication system
A pluggable module includes a pluggable body extending between a mating end and a cable end. The pluggable body includes a single-piece, unitary shell defining a cavity. The shell is seamless around a perimeter of the shell. An internal circuit board is held in the cavity and surrounded by the unitary shell. The internal circuit board is provided at an end of a cable communicatively coupled to the internal circuit board. The pluggable body is configured to be plugged into a receptacle assembly such that the internal circuit board is communicatively coupled to a communication connector of the receptacle assembly. |
| US09572283B2 |
Thermally conductive flexible member for heat transfer
An example embodiment includes a thermal conduction system for dissipating thermal energy generated by operation of an optical subassembly that is disposed within a shell of a communication module. The thermal conduction system can include a thermally conductive flexible member that contacts the optical subassembly and the shell of the communication module. By contacting the optical subassembly and the shell, the thermal energy generated by operation of the optical subassembly can transfer from the optical subassembly to the shell. The thermally conductive flexible member defines thermally conductive flexible member holes that correspond to pins extending from the optical subassembly. The pins pass through the thermally conductive flexible member holes enabling the thermally conductive flexible member to contact the optical subassembly. |
| US09572278B2 |
Method and apparatus for mounting rack components on racks
The invention pertains to a system for mounting components to a rack comprising brackets that can be mounted to the rear of the rack through the opening in the front of rack before the component is inserted into the slot and mating sleeves running along the sides of the components. The brackets include arms that extend forwardly towards the front of the slot. After the brackets are attached, the component can be slid into the slot from the front with the sleeves sliding over and engaging the brackets. In this manner, the component can be slid into a slot on the rack with the brackets sliding into the sleeves, thereby providing support for the component along a substantial portion of the depth of the component without the need to bolt or otherwise fixedly attach the component to the bracket after the component is in the rack. Accordingly, a component can be installed in a rack without the need for any access except from the front of the rack. |
| US09572274B2 |
Securing mechanism
A securing mechanism is configured to secure an electronic device. The electronic device includes a body, a power adapter and a first data cable connecting the body with the power adapter. The securing mechanism includes a base and a cover. The base includes a second data cable. The cover defines a limiting groove and a securing portion connected with the second data cable. The body is configured to be received in the limiting groove. The power adapter is configured to be inserted into the securing portion. The second data cable is configured to be inserted into a power supply. |
| US09572271B2 |
Wireless access device isolation cabinet
Technology is provided for a wireless access device isolation cabinet for use in software testing on multiple mobile devices. The wireless access device isolation cabinet isolates each wireless access device and the mobile devices communicating with the wireless access device from other nearby wireless access devices. The wireless access device isolation cabinet can include an enclosure having a plurality of walls configured to enclose an isolation region. The walls are electrically conductive to shield electromagnetic interference from entering or exiting the isolation region. A wireless access device is disposed in the isolation region to communicate with one or more mobile devices. A device tray comprising a non-conductive panel and a pair of support beams is mounted within the isolation region and configured to support the mobile devices. |
| US09572268B2 |
Display device
To provide a display device that gives a viewer a strong stereoscopic effect or sense of depth or a natural stereoscopic effect or sense of depth in a two-dimensional image, a display device including a display portion having a curved surface is provided. The display portion may be bent in a horizontal direction or a vertical direction. Alternatively, the display portion may have a convex surface or a concave surface on a display surface side. The display device may include a frame portion. A display device including a frame portion and a display portion which has a display surface on a frame portion side, is located so as to be apart from the frame portion with a distance therebetween, and has a curved surface, in which the display portion overlaps with an opening of the frame portion, and an end portion of the display portion overlaps with the frame portion, is provided. |
| US09572267B2 |
Window member in a curved display device, method of manufacturing a window member of a curved display device, and curved display device having the same
A window member in a curved display device includes a window body having a flat portion and a curved portion. A first radius of curvature of an inner surface of the curved portion may be different from a second radius of curvature of an outer surface of the curved portion. |
| US09572265B2 |
Method of producing an electronic circuit with protection of the conductive layer
The invention concerns a method of producing a circuit including the step consisting of connecting, to a bottom wall of a cavity, an electronic component with or without an intermediate wired link, the method including a step prior to an etching step which consists of depositing a layer of protective material on a conductive layer in the bottom of the cavity, said material being a liquid material capable of hardening and, once hardened, resistant to the etching solution. |
| US09572260B2 |
Device for storing electromagnetic energy from biological source
A device having a planar substrate, the substrate having a first side and a second side, where at least one first arrangement may be provided on the first side, which has at least one first single-wire and possibly at least one first cavity, and where at least one first device for storing electromagnetic energy is provided, one end of a single-wire being connected to the device for storing the electromagnetic energy, and the other end of the single-wire being disposed possibly, as free end, in, below or abutting on the first cavity. |
| US09572258B2 |
Method of forming a substrate core with embedded capacitor and structures formed thereby
Methods of forming a microelectronic structure are described. Embodiments of those methods include forming a substrate core by attaching a first dielectric layer to a second conductive layer of a thin film capacitor, and attaching a second dielectric layer to a first conductive layer of the thin film capacitor. |
| US09572254B2 |
Suspended lattice for electrical interconnects
An electrical interconnect has a circuit substrate and an electrical connection point on the circuit substrate. The electrical connection point includes a lattice of conductive material that is adjacent a gap in the circuit substrate and has anchor points that are attached to the circuit substrate. In some configurations, a conductive epoxy encapsulates at least a portion of the lattice of conductive material and may include a second electrical connection point that is bonded to the other electrical connection point through the conductive epoxy. |
| US09572253B2 |
Element and formation method of film
A novel element is provided. A novel film formation method is provided. A novel element manufacturing method is provided. Furthermore, a film including graphene is formed at low cost and high yield. The element includes a first electrode and a second electrode located apart from the first electrode. The first electrode and the second electrode include graphene. The film including graphene is formed through a first step of forming a film including graphene oxide over a substrate, a second step of immersing the film including graphene oxide in an acidic solution, and a third step of reducing graphene oxide included in the film including graphene oxide. Furthermore, before graphene oxide included in the film including graphene oxide is reduced, the film including graphene oxide is selectively removed by a photolithography technique. |
| US09572251B2 |
Printed circuit board consisting of laminated substrates and electronic device comprising the same
Provided is a printed circuit board consisting of laminated substrates each with a fiberglass cloth contained in its resin and with a wiring arranged onto at least one of its surfaces, wherein, in at least one of substrates provided with a wiring for transmitting a higher speed signal than that transmitted by wirings arranged onto the other substrates, a fiberglass cloth having a different property from that of the other substrates is contained. |
| US09572249B2 |
Printing complex electronic circuits
A programmable circuit includes an array of printed groups of microscopic transistors or diodes. The devices are pre-formed and printed as an ink and cured. The devices in each group are connected in parallel so that each group acts as a single device. In one embodiment, about 10 devices are contained in each group so the redundancy makes each group very reliable. Each group has at least one electrical lead that terminates in a patch area on the substrate. An interconnection conductor pattern interconnects at least some of the leads of the groups in the patch area to create logic circuits for a customized application of the generic circuit. The groups may also be interconnected to be logic gates, and the gate leads terminate in the patch area. The interconnection conductor pattern then interconnects the gates for form complex logic circuits. |
| US09572247B2 |
Memory card systems comprising flexible integrated circuit element packages, and methods for manufacturing said memory card systems
A memory card system may include a flexible integrated circuit device package, an upper flexible case, a lower flexible case, a wiring structure, an anisotropic conductive film, etc. The flexible integrated circuit device package may include a material capable of being bent or folded and a flexible integrated circuit device having a connection pad for an electrical connection. The upper flexible case may include a material capable of being bent or folded and may cover the integrated circuit device package. The lower flexible case may include a material capable of being bent or folded and the flexible integrated circuit device package may be fixed to the lower flexible case. The wiring structure may include a material capable of being bent or folded, and also may include a connection wiring disposed on an inner surface of the upper flexible case for electrically connecting the flexible integrated circuit device package with an external device, a connection pin disposed on an outer surface of the upper flexible case, and a via wiring passing through the upper flexible case. The anisotropic conductive film may be disposed between the flexible integrated circuit device package and the upper flexible case for electrically connecting the connection pad with the connection wiring. |
| US09572244B1 |
Latch device for heat dissipation component
A latch device for heat dissipation component includes a main body, a first and a second elastic member, a first and a second rotary unit. Two sides of the main body are respectively formed with a first and a second perforation. The first and second elastic members are fixedly disposed on one face of a motherboard. A first and a second hook/latch section respectively protrude from the first and the second elastic members corresponding to the first and second perforations. By means of a first and a second hook/latch member, the first and second rotary units are correspondingly hooked/latch with the first and second hook/latch sections. Then, the first and second rotary units are rotated to pull upward the first and second hook/latch members; further the first and second hook/latch sections can fix the main body. Hence, a user can assemble/detach the main body without using any hand tool. |
| US09572242B2 |
Air cooled plasma torch and components thereof
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an air cooled, retract-start plasma cutting torch having improved performance. The torch comprises any one, or a combination of an improved nozzle, electrode, shield cap and swirl ring, where these components have improved geometries and physical properties which optimize plasma jet performance during cutting. |
| US09572237B2 |
Structure electron beam inspection system for inspecting extreme ultraviolet mask and structure for discharging extreme ultraviolet mask
A structure for discharging an extreme ultraviolet mask (EUV mask) is provided to discharge the EUV mask during the inspection by an electron beam inspection tool. The structure for discharging an EUV mask includes at least one grounding pin to contact conductive areas on the EUV mask, wherein the EUV mask may have further conductive layer on sidewalls or/and bottom. The inspection quality of the EUV mask is enhanced by using the electron beam inspection system because the accumulated charging on the EUU mask is grounded. |
| US09572235B2 |
Method for controlling mobile terminal and program for controlling mobile terminal
A method for controlling a mobile terminal that includes a display and a memory, and that controls one or more lighting devices that illuminate one or more spaces. The method causes a computer of the mobile terminal and includes obtaining terminal location information indicating a location of the mobile terminal, rearranging one or more scene icons corresponding to the one or more scenes on the basis of the terminal location information and the one or more pieces of scene location information, displaying the rearranged one or more scene icons on the display, and transmitting, if one of the one or more scene icons is selected by a user, a control signal for controlling the one or more lighting devices to the one or more lighting devices, so that the one or more spaces are illuminated in an illumination state indicated by a scene corresponding to the selected scene icon. |
| US09572232B2 |
Biosensing electronic devices
The device consists of measuring aspects of human activity or emotion and then communicating that information to an adjustable lighting device or electronic display (as part of a phone, tablet, computer etc) such that the color temperature (or luminance) of the display or lamp is adjusted to match the mood of the user e.g. warmer in the evening close to the end of the day, and cooler in the morning for productivity. |
| US09572230B2 |
Centralized control of area lighting hours of illumination
Systems, methods and articles for providing centralized control of area lighting hours of illumination. An illumination system includes a central control system operatively coupled to a plurality of luminaires through a power-line power distribution system. The central control system issues illumination commands to the plurality of luminaires through the power-line power distribution system. The central control system may generate commands directed to all luminaires in an illumination system, or to one or more subsets of luminaires in the lamination system. The central control system may sequentially turn on luminaires in the illumination system to reduce power surges that would otherwise occur. |
| US09572229B2 |
Wireless sensor having a controllable photosensitive circuit
A wireless sensor for measuring a light intensity comprises a photosensitive circuit that can be disabled, for example, to conserve battery power. The wireless sensor may further comprise a wireless transmitter for transmitting wireless signals, a controller and a battery for powering the photosensitive circuit, the wireless transmitter, and the controller. The photosensitive circuit may generate a light intensity control signal in response to the light intensity. The photosensitive circuit may include a photosensitive diode for conducting a current having a magnitude responsive to the light intensity. The controller may be configured to disable the photosensitive circuit by opening a controllable switch that is coupled in series with the photosensitive diode. The controller may enable the photosensitive circuit, subsequently sample the light intensity control signal at a sampling period, and then disable the photosensitive circuit after the light intensity control signal has been sampled. |
| US09572227B2 |
Intelligent lighting network for generating light avatars
Disclosed is an intelligent lighting network for facilitating operation of a lighting system including at least one controllable light source and configured to generate light representing light avatars uniquely associated one or more users of a plurality of users. The light avatar is a light pattern suitable to represent the user and/or convey information about the user to other users. |
| US09572224B2 |
Bleeder protection using thermal foldback
Thermally protected bleeder circuits for maintaining an input current of a power converter above a dimmer circuit holding current are disclosed. In one example, a bleeder control circuit may generate a bleeder control signal to control a bleeder current of the bleeder circuit based on an input current signal and a temperature signal. The bleeder control circuit may cause the bleeder current to be substantially equal to zero in response to the input current signal being greater than or equal to a reference signal, and may cause the bleeder current to be proportional to a difference between the input current signal and the reference signal in response to the input current signal being less than the reference signal. The reference signal may be constant for temperatures less than a threshold temperature, but may decrease with respect to increases in temperature for temperatures greater than the threshold temperature. |
| US09572220B2 |
LED lighting apparatus and control circuit thereof
Disclosed are an LED lighting apparatus and a control circuit thereof which controls illumination of a lamp including LEDs using a dimmer. The LED lighting apparatus includes a flicker control unit which provides a control signal corresponding to a rectified voltage having a low angle corresponding to a preset low angle region and equal to or less than a preset level or detects an initial abnormal waveform diagram of the rectified voltage and provides a control signal corresponding to the abnormal waveform period, and controls a current path for light emission of the lamp. |
| US09572217B2 |
Light emitting diode driver and method of controlling thereof having a dimmed input sense circuit
Devices, systems, software, and methods for control of light emitting diodes (LEDs) via an LED driver circuit that receives a dimmed AC input signal from a dimmer and generates an output signal to power and dim an LED element. The LED driver circuit comprises a dimmed input sense circuit, a microcontroller, and a power supply circuit. The power supply circuit generates a power supply from the dimmed AC input signal for powering the LED driver circuit. The dimmed input sense circuit detects an incoming duty cycle (Din) of the dimmed AC input signal. The microcontroller stores one or more dimming level parameters, receives the detected incoming duty cycle (Din) from the dimmed input sense circuit, and generates an output duty cycle (Dout) based on the detected incoming duty cycle (Din) and the one or more dimming level parameters. The LED driver circuit generates the output signal using the generated output duty cycle (Dout) for powering the LED element at a generated dimming level. |
| US09572215B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting and correcting improper dimmer operation
A method is provided for detecting and correcting improper operation of a lighting system including a solid state lighting load. The method includes detecting first and second values of a phase angle of a dimmer connected to a power converter driving the solid state lighting load, the first and second values corresponding to consecutive half cycles of an input mains voltage signal, and determining a difference between the first and second values. When the difference is greater than a difference threshold, indicating asymmetric waveforms of the input mains voltage signal, a selected corrective action is implemented. |
| US09572211B2 |
Method and system for improving LED lifetime and color quality in dimming apparatus
In a pulse width modulation light emitting diode (LED) controller an error amplifier and output load switch are synchronously controlled to prevent service life shortening current overshoot through the LEDs and slowing discharging currents causing color temperature shifting in the light output from the LEDs. A plurality of switching arrangements for the error amplifier and the compensation network may be provided in a single integrated circuit LED dimming controller, and outputs for controlling a variety of differently configured output power switch combinations for disconnecting or shorting the LEDs, or disconnecting the output capacitor during off times of the modulated dimming control signal. |
| US09572209B2 |
LED actuating device and method
An actuating device comprises an LED actuating module. Said LED actuating module comprises a micro-programmed control unit (MCU), an actuator, a VF-value detection module, a PN-junction temperature acquisition module and an LED lamp unit. The MCU determines the current value matched with the LED lamp unit based on the VF value detected by the VF-value detection module and the temperature value detected by the PN-junction temperature acquisition module, and then determines the width of the PWM pulse output to the actuator according to the current value, and the actuator actuates an LED to operate at the matched current value. |
| US09572206B2 |
Active valley fill power factor correction
A power converter is disclosed that includes an active valley fill (AVF) capacitor that is actively switched to provide current to a load during a portion of an alternating current (AC) input cycle. The current supplied to the load includes some current supplied by the AC input and some current supplied by the AVF capacitor. Circuitry is configured to regulate the amount of current flowing through the load, including controlling the amount of current supplied by the AVF capacitor. The duty cycle on the AVF capacitor can be adjusted to shape the AC input current waveform. |
| US09572205B2 |
LED fluorescent lamp
A light-emitting diode (LED) lamp which can replace a typical fluorescent lamp is provided. The LED lamp comprises external connection pins connected to terminals of an electronic or magnetic fluorescent lamp ballast, capacitors connected to each of the external connection pins, diodes connected to each of the capacitors and a LED array connected between the diodes, wherein an first external connection pin, a first capacitor, a first diode, an LED array, a second diode, a second capacitor and a second external connection pin are connected in series. The LED lamp also further comprises a diode connected in anti-parallel with a series circuit of the second diode and the LED array, and another diode connected in anti-parallel with a series circuit of the first diode and the LED array. |
| US09572202B2 |
Induction generator for induction heating devices and a method for the operation of an induction generator for induction heating elements
An induction generator is connected to a three-phase mains. The induction generator includes a control unit (10) connected to a current transformer (38), on one (L1) of the lines (L1, L2, L3) of the three-phase mains. The induction generator includes a number of power sections (26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36). Each power section (26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36) supplies one of the induction coils (40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50). A control unit (10) estimates and corrects harmonic distortions of the mains current via the current transformer (38). The power transferred to a heated object as a function of the frequency is stored in a memory of the control unit (10), so that the heated object is identifiable by its frequency-power characteristic. The frequency spectrum of the transferred power related to a harmonic distortion in the line (L1) is stored in the memory (10) if the distortion exceeds a predetermined limit. The harmonic distortions are corrected by the control unit (10) if a heated object with the frequency-power characteristic related to the harmonic distortion is detected. |
| US09572200B2 |
Disk having an electric connecting element and compensator plates
A disk with at least one connecting element having compensator plates, including; a substrate having an electrically conductive structure on at least one partial region of the substrate, at least one compensator plate on at least one partial region of the conductive structure, at least one electric connecting element on at least one partial region of the at least one compensator plate, a lead-free soldering mass which connects the compensator plate via at least one contact surface including; one partial region of the electrically conductive structure, wherein the difference of the thermal expansion coefficient of the substrate and the compensator plate is less than 5×10−6/° C. and wherein the connecting element comprises copper. |
| US09572199B2 |
Multimode rake receiver, cellular base station and cellular communication device
A multimode rake receiver comprise a common antenna interface, arranged to at least receive in a first mode a first CDMA radio channel carrying information encoded according to a first baseband modulation standard and to receive in a second mode a second CDMA radio channel carrying information encoded according to a second baseband modulation standard; and a common signal processing path, at least arranged to process in the first mode the first CDMA radio channel and in the second mode the second CDMA radio channel, wherein the common signal path comprises a common descrambling and de-spreading unit and a common hybrid code generating unit arranged to provide to the common descrambling and de-spreading unit chip codes applicable in the first mode to the first CDMA radio channel and in the second mode to the second CDMA radio channel. |
| US09572196B2 |
Small-sized base station device in mobile communication system
A small-sized base station employed in a mobile communication system is disclosed. To this end, the small-sized base station in a mobile communication system, according to one embodiment of the present invention, is a base station device in a mobile communication system comprising: a case which has the shape of a polyhedron and is hollow inside; a housing accommodated inside the case and having the same polyhedron shape as the case; and at least one board which is positioned between the case and the housing. |
| US09572195B2 |
Link sharing within a communication system
A method and apparatus for choosing members of a local-area network and choosing a network coordinator among the members is provided herein. During operation a mobile node will determine presence information for nodes within its local area. These nodes will be solicited by the node to be part of a local-area network. Of all nodes that accept the request to form a local area network, a network coordinator for the local-area network will be chosen by determining which node's data budget allows for the cheapest transfer of data. The node with the best data budget is then chosen to be a network coordinator. |
| US09572194B2 |
Method and device for determining continuous session support during support of LIMONET in mobile communication system
According to an embodiment of the present invention, the invention discovers an address of a LGW, which can be sued in HeNB, determines whether session continuity is supported or not when a terminal using the LGW is moved to another HeNB in a network wherein a structure supporting Session Continuity and a structure not supporting Session Continuity are mixed, and processes active mode mobility and idle mode mobility based on the same. To this end, an embodiment of the present invention provides a method for transmitting the LGW and HeNB ID association information through DNS and S1AP, and a method for processing idle mode mobility and active mode mobility by using LGW information and HeNB ID association information in MME. |
| US09572193B2 |
Device-to-device communication
There is provided a solution for improving the quality of service of end-to-end communication between at least two user terminals. The solution includes applying uplink signaling in which information related to the traffic status of a direct device-to-device communication link is transmitted. |
| US09572192B2 |
Method and system for supporting incompatible channelization of a wireless communications system
A method of supporting incompatible channelization in a wireless communications system is provided. A coordinating device determines a first set of physical parameters of a first wireless channel. The first set of physical parameters includes a channel bandwidth, a central frequency, a transmit power limit, and a modulation and coding scheme. The coordinating device establishes communication with a first set of communications devices over the first wireless channel. The coordinating device then broadcasts a channel-adjustment message and determines a protection period. The channel-adjustment message comprises a set of instructions on how to adjust to a second set of physical parameters of a second wireless channel. A second set of communications devices adjust physical parameters based on the channel-adjustment message. Finally, the coordinating device communicates with the second set of communications devices over the second wireless channel during the protection period. |
| US09572188B2 |
Communication device
A communication device may accept an instruction for establishing a wireless network to which the communication device and an external device are to belong, search for the external device in a case where the instruction is accepted, to transfer from a parent state to a non-parent state in a case where the communication device is in the parent state and the searched external device is in the parent state, and execute a forming process for forming a first wireless network to which the communication device is to belong as a child station and the external device is to belong as the parent station after the state of the communication device had transferred to the non-parent state. |
| US09572181B2 |
Method for transmitting enhanced random access sequence and machine type communication terminal
A method for transmitting an enhanced random access sequence and a machine type communication terminal, wherein node 1 generates an enhanced random access sequence according to a random access sequence and enhanced configuration information, and the node 1 sends the enhanced random access sequence on an enhanced random access channel. The embodiment of the present document performs an enhanced design on a random access channel in the LTE/LTE-A system to improve the access quality of a machine type communication terminal and ensure that a machine type communication terminal can normally access the system. |
| US09572180B2 |
System and method for indicating packet transmission time
A method for exchanging data includes generating a usage indicator for an access window, the usage indicator including a first indication of if an allowed station in a list of allowed stations needs to receive information about its resource allocation and at least one of a second indication of a start time of the access window, and a third indication of the list of allowed stations, and broadcasting the usage indicator. The method also includes exchanging data with at least one of the allowed stations within the access window in accordance with the usage indicator. |
| US09572178B1 |
Node unit of distributed antenna system
The inventive concept relates to a distributed antenna system (DAS), and more particularly, to an uplink signal transmission operation of each of node units constituting a DAS. A node unit of a DAS includes a signal input/output unit configured to receive m uplink signals from m lower node units and output the m uplink signals, and a multiplexer configured to generate a single uplink signal by selectively outputting any one of the m uplink signals at an interval of a predetermined output time. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a DAS capable of processing and outputting, as one signal, uplink signals received from a plurality of remote units, without any error. |
| US09572176B2 |
Multi-purpose radio front-end processing circuitry
Certain embodiments of the invention may be found in a method and system for antenna and radio front-end topologies for a system-on-a-chip (SOC) device that combines Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11 b/g WLAN technologies. A single chip radio device that supports WLAN and Bluetooth technologies receives a WLAN signal in a WLAN processing circuitry of the radio front-end and in a Bluetooth processing circuitry of the radio front-end. Signals generated by the WLAN processing circuitry and the Bluetooth processing circuitry from the received WLAN signal may be combined in a diversity combiner that utilizes selection diversity gain combining or maximal ratio combining (MRC). When a generated signal is below a threshold value, the signal may be dropped from the combining operation. A single antenna usage model may be utilized with the single chip radio device front-end topology to support WLAN and Bluetooth communications. |
| US09572172B2 |
Adaptive scheduling of voice traffic in a multi-carrier communication environment
The present invention provides a technique for scheduling data, and in particular, scheduling real-time or voice data for transmissions during a transmit time interval in a multi-carrier communication environment. For each transmit time interval, channel condition indicia for multiple users is determined, and an iterative scheduling process is then implemented based in part on the channel condition indicia. The iterative scheduling initially pre-assigns select tones for each of the remaining users that have not been permanently assigned tones for the given transmit time interval. Next, the remaining user having the least favorable channel conditions is selected as an active user. The newly selected active user is then permanently assigned the select tones that were initially pre-assigned to that particular user. The permanently assigned tones are removed from consideration, and the process is repeated until all the remaining users are permanently assigned unique tones for scheduling. |
| US09572171B2 |
Systems, methods, and devices for efficient device-to-device channel contention
A user equipment (UE) includes a request receipt component, an interference component, and a grant/deny component. The request receipt component is configured to receive a first signal indicating a request to transmit to the UE from a first transmitting UE and to receive one or more additional signals indicating that one or more additional transmitting UEs are requesting to transmit to corresponding target UEs. The interference component identifies, based on a received power of the first signal and the one or more additional signals, one or more potentially incompatible UEs. The incompatible UEs may include at least one of the one or more additional transmitting UEs. The grant/deny component is configured to send a signal indicating a block on transmission by the one or more incompatible UEs. |
| US09572168B2 |
Fast termination of sounding reference signals and channel quality indicator transmissions
Methods and operations in mobile terminals and base stations are disclosed which control uplink signaling. A method in a mobile terminal controls uplink signaling to a base station, and includes receiving a MAC CE from the base station. The MAC CE indicates whether at least one of SRS or CQI reports should be transmitted for one or more serving cells configured for the mobile terminal. Transmission of at least one of the SRS or the CQI reports for the one or more serving cells from the mobile terminal to the base station is selectively activated and deactivated responsive to the MAC CE. Related methods and operations by base stations and mobile terminals are disclosed. |
| US09572162B2 |
Aggregated carrier synchronization and reference signal transmitting and receiving methods, devices and systems
A node of a wireless network transmits information to a user equipment over an aggregated carrier that includes a primary carrier having a first set of primary carrier time/frequency resources and a secondary carrier having a second set of secondary carrier time/frequency resources. Synchronization signals and/or reference symbols are transmitted to the user equipment on the secondary carrier less often than on the primary carrier. An indication of when and/or how often the synchronization signals and/or reference symbols will be transmitted to the user equipment on the secondary carrier may also be transmitted to the user equipment over the primary carrier. By transmitting synchronization signals and/or reference symbols to the user equipment on the secondary carrier less often than on the primary carrier, resources of the secondary carrier may be conserved, energy efficiency of the secondary carrier may be increased, and/or interference with other cells may be reduced or prevented. |
| US09572159B2 |
Terminal device, communication method and integrated circuit
A base station device and a terminal device determine resource element mapping in which a PDSCH is mapped and perform efficient communication. The terminal device uses a first parameter set among up to 4 parameter sets in order to determine resource element (RE) mapping for the PDSCH, when decoding the PDSCH based on detection of a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) or an Enhanced Physical Downlink Control Channel (EPDCCH) with a Downlink Control Information (DCI) format 1A and transmitted on an antenna port 7, and determines RE mapping for the PDSCH by using the number of antenna ports for and/or a frequency position of a Cell-specific Reference Signal (CRS) in the serving cell when decoding the PDSCH based on detection of the PDCCH or the EPDCCH with the DCI format 1A and transmitted on antenna ports 0 to 3. |
| US09572158B2 |
Residential local break out in a communication system
Method and residential control node for enabling encrypted residential communication of user data between two wireless communication devices. The method comprises receiving a radio bearer mapping from a communication network node, establishing a connection with a first wireless communication device, in accordance with the radio bearer mapping, and establishing a connection with a second wireless communication device, in accordance with the radio bearer mapping. Furthermore, the method comprises obtaining a first key which is based on a key of the first wireless communication device, from the communication network node, and obtaining a second key which is based on a key of the second wireless communication device. Thereby, the residential control node is enabled to decrypt user data received from the first wireless communication device by the first key, and encrypting the user data by the second key, before sending the user data to the second wireless communication device. |
| US09572151B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for estimating power using data signals
Methods and network devices estimate power of signals received from a user equipment in a sector of a cellular network cell using a data signal, which is not a predetermined reference signal. An exemplary method includes (1) saving a data signal received from the user equipment in a first sector of the cellular network cell, (2) acquiring a reference signal that corresponds to the data signal as received in a second sector of the cell and demodulated, and (3) comparing the saved data signal and the reference signal to estimate power of the data signal as received in the first sector. |
| US09572150B2 |
Resource indexing for acknowledgement signals in response to receptions of multiple assignments
A method and apparatus for transmitting, by a user equipment, a hybrid automatic repeat request acknowledgement (HARQ-ACK) are provided. The method includes identifying a transmission power of the HARQ-ACK based on transmission power control information in first downlink control information for a primary cell; identifying, for a time division duplexing (TDD), a resource for transmission of the HARQ-ACK based on transmission power control information in second downlink control information with a downlink assignment index (DAI) value greater than 1; and transmitting the HARQ-ACK to a base station based on the resource on the primary cell. |
| US09572148B2 |
Method and apparatus for transceiving a downlink control channel in a wireless communication system
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for transceiving a downlink control channel. According to one embodiment of the present invention, method in which a base station transmits downlink control information in a wireless communication system comprises: a step for determining an allocatable resource region for an enhanced physical downlink control channel (E-PDCCH) of a local allocation system; a step for allocating an E-PDCCH to the determined allocatable resource region for the E-PDCCH; and a step for transmitting the downlink control information on the allocated E-PDCCH. The allocatable resource region for the E-PDCCH can be set as a group of partial resource regions in each of a plurality of partitions when a downlink system bandwidth contains said plurality of partitions. |
| US09572147B2 |
Telecommunications systems and methods for machine type communication
A method for communicating data between a base station and a terminal device in a wireless telecommunications system, for example an LTE-based system. The wireless communication system uses plural frequency sub-carriers spanning a system frequency band. Physical-layer control information for the terminal device is transmitted from the base station using sub-carriers selected from across the system frequency band, for example to provide frequency diversity. However, higher-layer data for the terminal device is transmitted using only sub-carriers selected from within a restricted frequency band which is smaller than and within the system frequency band. The terminal device is aware of the restricted frequency band, and as such need only buffer and process data within this restricted frequency band during periods where higher-layer data is being transmitted. The terminal device buffers and processes the full system frequency band during periods when physical-layer control information is transmitted. |
| US09572146B2 |
Downlink signal receiving method and user equipment, and downlink signal transmitting method and base station
According to the present invention, one or more PDCCH-SFs are set from among subframes in a predetermined duration so as to force user equipment (UE) to perform a PDCCH blind decoding (BD). Information indicating said set PDCCH-SF is provided to the UE from a base station (BS). The UE performs the PDCCH BD only in the PDCCH-SF which is set to the UE itself, and not to all subframes, and performs HARQ process(es) according to the PDCCH BD. The present invention exhibits the advantages of reducing the number of BDs which the UE has to perform and of reducing the implementation complexity of the UE. |
| US09572145B2 |
PDCCH resource utilization
The present disclosure provides coordination of assignments for the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) in a multi-sector cell based on reuse of CCE resources to user equipment (UE) in different sectors that are well isolated from each other. For non-isolated UEs the CCE resources are either repeated in all sectors for better reception performance, or transmitted in one sector while the corresponding CCEs in the other sectors are reserved. In order to achieve coordinated PDCCH assignment there is provided methods for coordinated PDCCH transmission, a system comprising transmission points which are associated with a common physical cell identity and which are controlled by a common network node. There is also provided a corresponding network node and computer readable media comprising computer program code. |
| US09572144B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting channel quality control information using PUCCH format 3 in a wireless access system
A method is provided for receiving uplink control information (UCI) in a wireless access system supporting a carrier aggregation. An evolved Node-B (eNB) transmits, to a user equipment (UE), two or more physical downlink shared channels (PDSCHs) via two or more downlink component carriers, respectively. The eNB receives, from the UE, the UCI for the two or more downlink component carriers. The UCI includes acknowledgement information and channel quality information (CQI) for each of the two or more downlink carriers. The UCI is performed by using a channel coding with respect to the UCI according to a payload size of the UCI when the UCI is transmitted by using a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) format 3. The UCI is performed by using a rate matching with respect to the channel coded UCI for the PUCCH format 3. |
| US09572137B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting reference signal in wireless communication system
A method for mapping, by a base station, a channel state information reference signal (CSI RS) in a wireless communication system, and a user equipment (UE) for performing the method, are discussed. The method according to one embodiment includes selecting a resource element (RE) set from a plurality of RE sets in a subframe of a time division duplex (TDD) frame, wherein each of the plurality of RE sets includes a pair of consecutive orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbol elements, and wherein the subframe uses an extended cyclic prefix (CP); and mapping the CSI RS to the selected RE set. |
| US09572136B2 |
Method of re-transmitting an original frame
Data bits are mapped to a lower number of slots than the number of slots available for a retransmission frame and control channels are transmitted in all available slots of the retransmission frame. The number of available slots in the retransmission frame is greater than the number of available slots in the original frame. |
| US09572135B2 |
Airtime-based packet scheduling for wireless networks
Airtime usage may be used as a factor in controlling network traffic flow to and from client devices via a wireless network interface. Received packets or other data are assigned to a quality of service profile. Additionally, a cost value for communicating the received data is determined at least in part based on an actual or estimated airtime usage for the received packet. The cost value is used to allocate wireless network airtime to data. The allocation of wireless network airtime may be varied dynamically based on operating conditions. The cost value may be based on factors including the airtime used to communicate data; whether the data is a retransmission; and wireless network overhead. The cost value of data may also be different depending on whether the data is being sent from a client device or to a client device. |
| US09572131B2 |
Network switch with integrated wireless network radios
A wireless network switch device includes wired-network switch circuitry and wireless local-area network (WLAN) radio devices integrated together within a common housing. WLAN antennas that are distributed about the WLAN coverage area can be coupled to antenna ports on the device housing. Channels are assigned to the WLAN radio devices and corresponding antennas in a manner that promotes minimization of signal interference between adjacent WLAN radio devices in the housing as well between adjacent antennas. |
| US09572130B2 |
User equipment and method for transmitting a data stream to an evolved node B
In a wireless network, a user equipment (UE) can communicate with an Evolved Node B (eNodeB). During at least some times, the UE transmits a data stream to the eNodeB, over one of several available antenna states on the UE. The antenna states can include one or more tuning states for each antenna port on the UE. At predetermined times, which can be periodic, the UE ceases transmission of the data stream, transmits a test signal sequentially over each of its antenna states, receives a signal back from the eNodeB indicating which of the antenna states provides the strongest signal, and switches to the indicated antenna state. After switching, the UE can resume transmission of the data stream over the indicated antenna state. In some examples, the UE can repeat the antenna tuning/retuning process periodically. |
| US09572129B2 |
Communications method and apparatus
Embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of communications, and provide a communications method and apparatus, which can solve a problem in the prior art that, in order to save power, when a mobility management entity (MME) delays delivering a paging message or a UE uses a long discontinuous reception (DRX) period, an exception may occur in a serving gateway (SGW). The method includes: acquiring, by an MME, information of a UE (S101); determining, by the MME according to the information, whether the UE satisfies a first preset condition (S102); if the UE satisfies the first preset condition, generating, by the MME, a first indication, where the first indication is used for instructing an SGW to retain first data or discard first data, and the first data is downlink data of the UE (S103); and sending, by the MME, the first indication to the SGW. |
| US09572125B1 |
Systems and methods for locating unrecognized computing devices
The disclosed computer-implemented method for locating unrecognized computing devices may include (1) identifying a plurality of cooperating computing devices on a wireless network that are each configured with a device location application, (2) determining a physical location for each cooperating computing device within the plurality of cooperating computing devices, (3) receiving, from the device location application on the plurality of cooperating computing devices, data about packets intercepted by the plurality of cooperating computing devices that are directed to the wireless network by an unrecognized computing device, and (4) locating the unrecognized computing device based on information received from the plurality of cooperating computing devices that identifies both the physical location for each cooperating computing device and signal strengths of the packets intercepted by the plurality of cooperating computing devices. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US09572123B2 |
Multiple time advance for radio access networks
In an example embodiment, a system may include a mobile terminal. The mobile terminal may be configured to receive a first signal including a first time advance value. The first signal may be transmitted by a first base station. The mobile terminal may be further configured to receive a second signal. The second signal may be transmitted by a second base station. The mobile base station may be further configured to determine a difference in propagation delay between the first and second signals. The mobile terminal may be further configured to determine a second time advance value by correlating the first time advance value with the difference in propagation delay. |
| US09572121B2 |
Methods and apparatus for timing synchronization during a wireless uplink random access procedure
Aspects generally relate to wireless communications and, more particularly, to methods, systems and apparatus for timing synchronization during a wireless uplink random access procedure. For example, certain aspects relate to a technique for receiving first timing advance information associated with uplink wireless communications with a base station (BS), transmitting a random access connection request message to the BS, receiving a random access response from the BS while the first timing advance information is within a valid time period, the random access response comprising second timing advance information associated with uplink wireless communications with the base station, determining, after receiving the random access response, that the valid time period for the first timing advance information has expired, and utilizing the second timing advance information for uplink communications with the BS after determining that the valid time period for the first timing advance information has expired. Numerous other aspects are provided. |
| US09572118B2 |
Communication control method and base station
A first base station is configured to be connected with a second base station via an X2 interface. The first base station includes: a controller containing at least one processor and at least one memory, and configured to execute processes of transmitting a message, which includes a first identifier, a change notification, coverage state information, and a second identifier, to the second base station before modifying a coverage of the first cell, the first identifier identifying the first cell, the change notification indicating that the first base station is planned to modify the coverage of the first cell, the coverage state information indicating that a state of the coverage after modification of the coverage, the second identifier identifying a second cell for compensating at least part of the coverage of the first cell; and modifying the coverage of the first cell after transmitting the message. |
| US09572115B2 |
Measurement report triggering for inter-cell coordination in cellular deployment
A method and device for determining whether to send a measurement report to a serving cell and determining when an inter-cell coordination procedure is likely to achieve coordination gain are disclosed. According to one aspect, a method includes performing received signal quality measurements of the serving cell and a plurality of neighboring cells. The method also includes calculating a UE metric based on the received signal quality measurements of a plurality of interfering cells and based on a scaling parameter. The method further includes comparing the calculated UE metric to a threshold to determine whether to send the measurement report to the serving cell. |
| US09572111B2 |
Uplink power control using a received reference signal
In a wireless network control information may be provided with configuration information for an uplink control channel and a margin associated with the uplink control channel. A signal including an adaptive modulation and coding report may be sent over the uplink control channel in a time interval including a time slot. The transmission power level of the signal may be derived from the margin or a measured pathloss. |
| US09572108B2 |
Systems, methods and devices for small cell activation and detection
Methods, systems, and devices for enabling wireless communication devices in a cellular wireless network to utilize small cells having coverage within a macro cell are disclosed herein. User equipment (UE) can detect the need for using a booster providing a small cell, detect availability of small cells and submit a request to infrastructure of the cellular wireless network to aid in connection with the booster that provides the small cell. The request can be enhanced with small cell location queries, small cell activation requests and/or assistance data to enable meaningful small cell selection. |
| US09572106B2 |
Dynamic bandwidth switching for reducing power consumption in wireless communication devices
Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer-program products for performing dynamic bandwidth switching between control signals and data signals of differing bandwidths are disclosed. Frame formats are disclosed in which control signals are transmitted at different bandwidths than data signals. Receiver architectures for receiving the signaling formats are disclosed. A receiver can receive a relatively narrowband control signal while consuming a relatively low power and then dynamically adjust characteristics of various components to receive a data signal at a higher bandwidth while consuming a relatively higher power. |
| US09572105B2 |
WLAN system with opportunistic transitioning to a low power state for power management
Embodiments described herein relate to providing reduced power consumption in wireless communication systems, such as 802.11 WLAN systems. Timing information regarding power save opportunities (PSOPs) may be provided in communication frames, which may inform mobile devices of expected frame exchange periods during which they may transition to a Doze state. Additional PSOP information may be included in beacon frames, which may inform mobile devices of expected multicast periods during which they may transition to a Doze state. This may operate to provide improvements in terms of power consumption. |
| US09572103B2 |
System and method for addressing discontinuous transmission in a network device
Embodiments included herein are directed towards a system and method for addressing discontinuous transmission (DTX) in a network device. Embodiments may include receiving, at a computing device, an audio signal and generating at least one silence descriptor (SID) frame associated with the audio signal. Embodiments may also include generating at least one no data frame associated with the audio signal. Embodiments may also include initiating a speech decoder, voice enhancement, and speech encoder operation for the at least one SID frame during a DTX operation and bypassing the speech decoder, voice enhancement, and speech encoder functions for the at least one no data frame. |
| US09572101B2 |
Optimization of mobile phone service during power failure
Optimization of mobile telecommunications service during a power outage at one or more base stations, wherein optimization includes identifying one or more of a plurality of base stations to which non-emergency electrical power has been interrupted; determining an initial number of users in areas corresponding to the one or more of the plurality of base stations; generating a user location probability model and a user call probability model; scheduling initial battery power operation for the plurality of base stations; monitoring user calls and user movement after the battery power operation has started; updating the user location probability model and the user call probability model based on the monitoring; and updating battery power operation scheduling for the plurality of base stations. |
| US09572100B2 |
Method and device for activating and de-activating uplink of secondary cell of terminal
An electronic device, including processing circuitry, configured to configure a plurality of secondary cells for carrier aggregation and activate/deactivate at least one of the plurality of secondary cells based on a combination of an implicit manner and an explicit manner. The processing circuitry is further configured to activate the at least one of the plurality of secondary cells in an uplink in the explicit manner according to a certain inter-band carrier aggregation scenario in which component carriers are received by separate radio frequency chains. |
| US09572098B2 |
Network access method and device
When an access point notifies a user equipment of a communications network supported by the access point, the access point also notifies the user equipment of priority information of the access point, so that the user equipment can select an access point that an operator expects the UE to select, to be connected to the communications network, thereby avoiding inconsistency between an access point, which is randomly selected by the user equipment to be connected to a communications network, and an access point that a communications network operator expects the UE to select. |
| US09572096B2 |
Method and apparatus for remote-accessing in wireless communication system
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more specifically, a method and an apparatus for remote-accessing are disclosed. A method for transmitting remote access indication information, according to one embodiment of the present invention, comprises the steps of: generating from a first network node remote access packet data network (PDN) connection indication information with respect to PDN connection of a user equipment (UE); and transmitting the remote access PDN connection indication information from the first network node to the UE, wherein the remote access PDN connection indication information can express whether the PDN connection of the UE is the remote access PDN connection. |
| US09572091B2 |
Method and electronic device for network search
A method and an electronic device for network search. The network search method in an electronic device includes scanning a frequency band corresponding to a first communication system to search for a first Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN); when discovering a second PLMN as a result of the scanning, determining whether a frequency band of the second PLMN and a frequency band of a second communication system overlap each other; and when the frequency band of the second PLMN and the frequency band of the second communication system overlap each other, scanning the other frequency band excluding the overlapping frequency band in the entire frequency band corresponding to the second communication system to search for the first PLMN. |
| US09572090B2 |
Method and apparatus for updating system information in wireless LAN system
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for updating system information in a wireless LAN system. A method for a station (STA) to update system information in a wireless communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of: if the value of a change sequence field received by the STA from an access point (AP) is different from the value of the change sequence field stored in the STA, transmitting, to the AP, a probe request frame including the change sequence field set to the value of the change sequence field stored in the STA; and a step of receiving, from the AP, a probe response frame responding to the probe request frame including the change sequence field. |
| US09572086B2 |
Personal wireless coverage maps
Example methods disclosed herein to provide a map to a wireless device include, in response to a request received from the wireless device, processing wireless session records to determine respective status of a plurality of wireless services in a first geographic region associated with the wireless device. Disclosed example methods also include, based on the processing of the wireless session records, generating map data identifying a location of the wireless device, a status of a first one of the wireless services in a second geographic region included in the first geographic region, and a status of a second one of the wireless services in a third geographic region included in the first geographic region. Disclosed example methods further include transmitting the map data to the wireless device. |
| US09572085B1 |
Use of femtocell registration to create local network
Methods and systems are provided for a femtocell to provide local access to a remote data store. The method includes a femtocell receiving a registration request and a device identifier from a wireless communication device. Responsive to receiving the request, the femtocell may provide the wireless communication device with wireless service and may use the device identifier to cause a network share to be created on a local network to which the femtocell is coupled. The network share may then provide a second device on the local network with access to a remote data store associated with the wireless communication device. After detecting an absence or de-registration of the wireless communication device, the femtocell may remove the network share. |
| US09572078B2 |
Method for accessing base station, base station, and user equipment
Embodiments of the present invention disclose a method for accessing a base station, a base station and a user equipment, belonging to the field of communications technologies. The method includes: establishing, by a current macro base station, a control plane connection with a user equipment according to an access request of the user equipment, and assigning a first cell-radio network temporary identity to the user equipment; and when receiving a measurement report of pico base stations reported by the user equipment, selecting a pico base station for the user equipment according to a preset policy so that the user equipment establishes a data plane connection with the pico base station, and notifying context information of the user equipment to the pico base station, where the context information includes the first cell-radio network temporary identity assigned to the user equipment. |
| US09572077B2 |
Inter-RAT mobility of in-device coexistence
Embodiments of system, device, and method configurations for managing inter-radio access technology (inter-RAT) mobility of handovers between a UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) or GSM EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN) and an evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) to avoid scenarios of in-device coexistence (IDC) interference are disclosed herein. In one example, the existence and types of IDC interference with an E-UTRAN Long Term Evolution (LTE)/Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) network are determined and communicated to the UTRAN/GERAN in an IDC indication signal. The IDC indication signal may communicate the existence and type of IDC interference occurring at user equipment, such as between licensed LTE/LTE-A and unlicensed industrial scientific medical (ISM) radio frequency bands. Accordingly, the UTRAN/GERAN may use information provided from the IDC indication signal to prevent a handover to the E-UTRAN that would result in IDC interference. |
| US09572073B2 |
Mobile communication system
In a mobile communication system capable of switching between a first communication state and a second communication state, in a case of a first communication state, a VoIP media signal is exchanged between a mobile station UE #1 and a mobile station UE #2 via an LTE radio access system and a node S-GW, a VoIP control signal is exchanged via the LTE radio access system, the node S-GW, and IMS, and in a case of a second communication state, a circuit-switched signal is exchanged between the mobile station UE #1 and an enhanced MSC/MGW via a 2G/3G radio access system, the VoIP media signal is exchanged between the enhanced MSC/MGW and the mobile station UE #2 via the node S-GW, and the VoIP control signal is exchanged between the enhanced MSC/MGW and the mobile station UE #2 via the node S-GW and the IMS. |
| US09572071B2 |
Autonomous determination of optimal values for handover parameters
The present invention relates to a method for adjusting handover parameters (TTT; OFF) used for handover detection within a given serving cell (CS). In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the method comprises, for respective ones of a plurality of mobile stations (UE1 . . . UEN) served by the serving cell, gathering measurement samples (M(i,CS,k); M(i,CN,k)) of the serving cell and of a respective neighboring cell (CN) carried out by a respective mobile station (UEi) at successive time instances (k), and determining delta values (Δ(i,CN,k)) indicative of the time-indexed difference between respective ones of the measurement samples of the serving cell and corresponding ones of the measurement samples of the neighboring cell. The method further comprises determining near-optimal values (TTTNO; OFFNO) for the handover parameters by statistical characterization of the ensembles of delta values for the plurality of mobile stations. The near-optimal values may be input to an iterative closed-loop optimization algorithm in order to determine optimal values (TTTO; OFFO) for the handover parameters. The present invention also relates to a handover configuration agent (150) implementing the proposed method. |
| US09572068B2 |
Systems and methods for rate adaptation in full-duplex wireless communication
This disclosure describes systems, methods, and computer-readable media related to employing rate adaptation in full-duplex communication. A first computing device may establish with a second computing device a full-duplex communication channel having a forward data transmission direction and a reverse data transmission direction. The first computing device may transmit to the second computing device a first data portion in the forward data transmission direction of the full-duplex communication channel at a default data transmission rate. The first computing device may receive a second data portion in the reverse direction of the full-duplex communication channel containing a forward channel quality information (CQI) associated with the forward data transmission direction. The first computing device may transmit a third data portion at a first data transmission rate, wherein the first data transmission rate is based at least in part on the forward CQI contained in the second data portion. |
| US09572066B2 |
Apparatus and method for access point selection
An apparatus for access point selection are disclosed. The disclosed access point selection apparatus includes: a sniffing unit configured to sniff packets transmitted to each of a multiple number of access points during a preset duration of time; a calculation unit configured to calculate a retransmission rate for each of the access points, calculate a collision probability of packets transmitted to each of the access points and a number of terminals transmitting packets to each of the access points by using the retransmission rate, and calculate an uplink packet processing rate of each of the access points by using the collision probability and the number of terminals transmitting packets; and a selection unit configured to select the access point having the highest value of the uplink packet processing rate from among the access points as the access point to which a target terminal is to be wirelessly connected. |
| US09572063B2 |
Reference signal configuration for coordinated multipoint
Coordinated Multipoint (CoMP) involves multiple transmission points or cells coordinating their individual transmissions so that a target user equipment (UE) experiences enhanced signal reception and/or reduced interference. In order to optimally implement downlink CoMP, a serving cell needs to obtain channel state information (CSI) for the downlink channels from the multiple transmission points to the UE. This disclosure deals with radio resource control (RRC) signaling for configuring the UE to obtain and report CSI for those downlink channels. |
| US09572061B2 |
Method of reporting an aggregated measurement in wireless communication system
Disclosed is the radio (wireless) communication system providing a radio communication service and the terminal, and more particularly, to a method of transmitting an aggregated measurement report to a network in an Evolved Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (E-UMTS) evolved from the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) or a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system. |
| US09572060B2 |
Channel state information reporting for component carriers for which no channel state information was calculated
The invention relates to a method for reporting channel state information from a user equipment (UE) to a eNodeB. In particular, the channel state information report is generated for all component carriers configured by the UE, independent from whether channel state information was actually calculated or not. If no channel state information is calculated for a specific component carrier, then the channel state information encodes information as to the status of said specific component carrier and thus the reason why no channel state information calculation was performed. For instance, the channel state information may encode that the status of the component carrier is deactivated, allowing the base station to check whether a component carrier is indeed activated or deactivated at the UE side. |
| US09572056B2 |
Fast signal surveyor
A system and method for characterizing a received radio frequency (RF) signal. In one embodiment, the system includes an antenna, a tuner, a sampler, a memory, and a processing unit connected to the memory, the processing unit being configured to receive a first sequence of samples from the sampler, perform a fast Fourier transform (FFT) operation, take the absolute value of a shifted complex frequency spectrum, perform a first filtering operation, perform a logarithmic operation, and perform an edge detection process to form an array of carrier centers and an array of carrier bandwidths. The processing unit is further configured to form, for each energy band identified as a result of the edge detection process, estimates of carrier characteristics and estimates of modulation characteristics. |
| US09572055B2 |
Uplink interference detection using transmission matrices
Identifying interference in a cellular network may include creating an interference neighbor list for a target base station that includes a plurality of neighboring base stations, determining a plurality of quiet resource blocks common to the plurality of neighboring base stations and the target base station, and analyzing signals received at the target base station during the plurality of quiet resource blocks. Whether to modify uplink transmission schedules, and the extent of modification, may be determined based on traffic levels. |
| US09572044B2 |
Mobile broadcast-based location determination method and apparatus
The present invention, pertaining to the field of wireless communications, discloses a mobile broadcast-based method and apparatus that includes: receiving a mobile broadcast signal; demodulating a location spreading signal inserted in the header of a time slot or a transmission frame of the mobile broadcast signal to acquire navigation message information, and measuring and acquiring location characteristic parameters, wherein the navigation message information includes the identifier of a mobile broadcast station, and the location characteristic parameters correspond to the identifier; and acquiring location data according to the location characteristic parameters and the navigation message information. According to the method and apparatus, a location spreading signal is carried in the header of a time slot or in the header of a transmission frame of the mobile broadcast signal, navigation message information is acquired by demodulating the location spreading signal, and location characteristic parameters are acquired by measurement to acquire location data. |
| US09572038B2 |
Full duplex wireless transmission with channel phase-based encryption
A method comprising: at a first transceiver, transmitting a plurality of signals to a second transceiver and receiving corresponding receive signals from the second transceiver, wherein each transmitted signal is sent using a channel perturbation; measuring a plurality of phase values, wherein each phase value is a phase difference between one of the plurality of transmitted signals and corresponding receive signal; masking a subsequent phase modulated signal employing phase rotation at the first transceiver using the plurality of phase values. |
| US09572034B1 |
Systems and methods for securing wireless networks
The disclosed computer-implemented method for securing wireless networks may include (1) receiving, at a physical access point, a request to improve the security of a wireless network that includes a client device and is serviced by an active virtual access point of the physical access point, (2) configuring a substitute virtual access point to service the wireless network by (a) configuring the substitute virtual access point to identify the wireless network using a substitute SSID and/or (b) secure the wireless network using a substitute passcode, (3) transmitting a notification that includes the substitute SSID and/or the substitute passcode to the client device that instructs the client device to connect to the wireless network via the substitute virtual access point, (4) connecting the client device to the substitute virtual access point, and (5) disabling the active virtual access point. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed. |
| US09572032B2 |
Method and system for terminal to access network and terminal
Provided are a method and system for a terminal accessing to a wireless local area network, and a terminal thereof, wherein the method includes: a terminal which does not know a wireless local area network access key sending a key acquisition request to a shared server in the wireless local area network, wherein the request carries a terminal location and a service set identifier (SSID); the shared server in the wireless local area network selecting an access key based on a correspondence relationship between the terminal location, the SSID and the access key, and sending the selected access key to the terminal; the terminal accessing to the wireless local area network according to the access key. The embodiment of the present document enables the terminal efficiently and conveniently access to a wireless local area network. |
| US09572031B2 |
Information processing device and authentication control method
Any one of information processing devices among a plurality of the information processing devices capable of communicating with one another, the information processing device includes a processor; and a memory which stores a plurality of instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the processor to execute: if the own device is first activated among the plurality of information processing devices having been shut down at a specific time, enabling a connection mode of a wireless LAN, and waiting until a connection is established from another information processing device among the plurality of information processing devices; setting authentication information based on information obtained through wireless LAN communication from the activated information processing device; and performing authentication for enabling the own device based on the authentication information. |
| US09572029B2 |
Quorum-based secure authentication
Representative embodiments of secure authentication to a resource in accordance with a predefined, electronically stored quorum-based authentication policy include causing electronic interaction among multiple devices that constitute a quorum in accordance with the policy, computationally determining whether the interaction satisfies the policy, and if so, electronically according access to the resource to one or more individuals associated with the interacting device(s). |
| US09572021B2 |
Allocation of internet protocol (IP) addresses and usage during short message service (SMS) transmission
Embodiments contemplate techniques and devices for allocating IP addresses for MTC devices, transmitting and receiving SMS using the allocated IP addresses. The MTC device may be allocated with an IP address without activating a packet data protocol (PDP) context. In addition, after the IP address has been allocated, SMS messages may be transmitted from and to MTC devices using the IP address. |
| US09572018B2 |
Handling a communication to a user equipment in a cellular wireless network
User apparatus 2 in a cellular wireless network 14 comprises a user equipment 4 having a first network interface 6 comprising a radio transceiver 8 for communicating via the cellular wireless network 14. The radio transceiver 8 may be set to a first state or to a second state. The user apparatus 2 has a second network interface 10 to a second network 16. A call to the user apparatus 2 is handled by detecting, via the second network interface 10, a request to receive a communication and dependent on the detection of the request via the second network interface 10, switching the radio transceiver 8 to the second state. The communication is then received at the user equipment 4 via the radio transceiver 8. As a result, the user equipment may receive the communication via the cellular wireless network without the need for the user equipment to be continuously camped on the cellular wireless network, so that the cellular wireless network may reduce provisioning of network resources and so reduce power consumption. |
| US09572017B2 |
Method and system for remote controlling mobile phones
A mobile device comprising a processor which is configured to run at least one of a plurality of threads, said plurality of threads comprising a mobile control thread, a priority adjusting thread and at least one other thread; a scheduler for scheduling threads to be run on said processor dependent on a priority of an thread relative to other threads, a display for displaying data to a user, an input system for a user to input commands, and a communication link for connecting said mobile device to a remote terminal, wherein, when said mobile control thread is running the processor is configured to capture data currently displayed on said display; send said captured data over said communication link; and issue an update sent notification to activate said priority adjusting thread; wherein, when said priority adjusting thread is running, the processor is configured to determine, on receipt of an update sent notification, whether a previous update sent notification issued less than a threshold time earlier, determine whether said mobile control thread has used more than a threshold amount of said processor, and if both determining steps are met reduce said priority of said mobile control thread below a priority of said at least one other thread and set a timer whereby when said timer expires, said priority of said mobile control thread is increased above said priority of said at least one other thread. |
| US09572014B2 |
Service provider activation with subscriber identity module policy
Systems and methods for activating a mobile device for use with a service provider are described. In one exemplary method, a mobile device having a currently inserted SIM card may be prepared for activation using a signing process in which an activation server generates a signed activation ticket encoded with SIM policy data that corresponds to the combination of the device and one of a number of SIM cards belonging to a set of SIM cards defined by the SIM policy data. The activation ticket is securely stored on the mobile device. In another exemplary method the mobile device may be activated in an activation process in which the device verifies an activation ticket against information specific to the device and SIM card in accordance with the SIM policy in the activation ticket, and initiates activation when the verification of the activation ticket is successful. |
| US09572011B2 |
Value added module in predictive intelligence
The present invention is provides towards a method and system for facilitating roaming tests for an operator in a telecommunication network. The method includes detecting a location update message of a subscriber to an HLR while switching from a first MSG/VLR to a second MSG/VLR, The method further includes holding by a value added module, a cancel location message being sent from the HLR to the first MSG/VLR. The method further includes conducting the roaming tests by the value added module, using the subscriber's profile data obtained from the first MSG/VLR. Further in the method the value added module releases the cancel location message to the first MSC/VLR. |
| US09572004B2 |
System and method for fast accurate detection of SMS spam numbers via monitoring grey phone space
A method and system for identifying short message service (SMS) spammers identifies senders as spammers by determining that the senders are sending SMS messages to devices included in a grey phone space. Devices in the grey phone space are identified using various methods including an analysis of call detail records. A grey ratio for a sender is determined as a ratio of messages sent to grey phone numbers by the sender to messages sent to all phone numbers by the sender. A sender is identified based on a difference between the grey ratio for the sender and a second grey ratio being above a threshold. |
| US09572003B2 |
Provision of text messages to emergency call takers
Concurrent text and voice communications can be maintained with an emergency call taker. An application executing on a mobile communications device in conjunction with a network gateway provide voice communication as well as an interactive Short Messaging System (SMS) session with a public safety answering point (PSAP). The gateway correlates and manages SMS messages with the PSAP and the mobile device. As such, a virtual session is generated over a traffic channel, that provides the advantages of a voice call as well as allowing text based communications. |
| US09572000B2 |
Facilitating social networking service connections via an ad hoc peer-to-peer network of mobile devices
A first mobile device may be configured to facilitate context-aware, graph-based interactions. For example, the first mobile device receives a first communication from a second mobile device. The first communication includes a second member identifier of a second member of the social networking service. The second member identifier may be associated with the second mobile device. In response to the receiving of the first communication, the first mobile device may determine, based on the second member identifier, that the second member is one of a plurality of members of the social networking service. The first mobile device may facilitate the establishing of the wireless peer-to-peer connection with the second mobile device based on the determining that that the second member is one of the plurality of members of the social networking service. |
| US09571999B2 |
Conditional interaction control for a virtual object
A method and system for providing conditional interaction for a virtual object (2) accessible with a mobile device (1), said mobile device (1) comprising geolocation means for assessing a real-world geographic location (PI) to said mobile device (1), and said virtual object (2) being assessed a location information (P2) corresponding to a real-world geographic location, In various embodiments at least one interaction is conditioned with said virtual object (2) through said mobile device (1), at least in function of the real-world geographic location (PI) of said mobile device (1) and the location information (P2) of said virtual object (2). In case said conditioning step is satisfied, interacting (7) with said mobile device (1) on said virtual object by modifying said location information (P2) of the virtual object (2). |
| US09571997B2 |
Communication apparatus, communication method, and program
A communication device includes a first processing unit that sends a first command to start an activation processing. The communication device also includes a second processing unit that receives the first command from the first processing unit. In addition, the communication device includes an interface between the first processing unit and the second processing unit. The first processing unit activates the interface at a predetermined interface level from among a plurality of interface levels. The second processing unit starts an application in accordance with the activated interface level. The first processing unit and the second processing unit exchange data by the activated application. The first processing unit and the second processing unit perform a deactivation processing of the activated interface. |
| US09571996B2 |
Packet-switched core network architecture for voice services on second- and third-generation wireless access networks
Communications systems and methods with an evolved packet-switched core network architecture to enable voice services on second- and third-generation wireless access networks. The systems and methods permit unmodified 2G and 3G mobile devices to conduct voice calls using conventional circuit-switched user-plane and control-plane protocols at the air interface while the voice calls are switched at the back-end using a packet-switched core network. The system may include a translation module at a controller component that is configured to provide both user-plane and control-plane translation functions between an unmodified 2G/3G mobile device that utilizes circuit-switched protocols for a voice call and the packet-switched core network that utilizes packet-switched protocols to switch the voice call. |
| US09571994B2 |
Alert systems and methodologies
A method includes programmatically placing a first call to a destination phone number associated with a line, and recording the first call as a first recording; receiving a signal corresponding to an incoming call directed to a first phone number; determining, based on stored data representing association of the first phone number with the destination phone number, that the destination phone number is associated with the first phone number; routing, based on the determination that the destination phone number is associated with the first phone number, call data corresponding to the incoming call to a destination device associated with the destination phone number, and recording the call as a second recording; comparing the second recording to the first recording, and effecting communication, based on a determination that the first and second recordings match, of an alert to one or more phone numbers. |
| US09571993B2 |
Method and system for displaying data
A system is disclosing having a portable device, a computer, a network, and a display system. The portable device includes an input means for entering data and a wireless transceiver for transmitting the data and receiving messages. The computer includes an application and a display, the application includes a filter that checks the data against a list of words and indicates on the display if the data contains at least one of the words. The network is operatively connected to the portable device and the computer. The display system is connected to the computer and includes a display screen where the data is automatically displayed on the display screen for a predetermined period of time. |
| US09571991B1 |
Opt-in tracking across messaging application platforms
The systems and methods discussed herein enable telecommunications service providers to track opt-ins (consent) to premium service and goods purchases. An industry aggregator gateway may be employed to receive short codes in messages built by IP messaging applications capable of data transmission, and may transmit the messages to telecommunications service providers and receive purchase information associated with various short codes. At least some of this purchase information is displayed to users to obtain consent to the purchase, and the consent trail from the request to the acceptance of purchase information, including terms and charges, is tracked and stored. |
| US09571990B2 |
Chat interaction between mobile phone and non-mobile phone devices
A method, computer program product, and computer system for identifying content on a computing device. A selection of an intended recipient of an electronic message is received. The content is transmitted from the computing device to a first mobile computing device. The content is transmitted from the first mobile computing device to a second mobile computing device via the electronic message. |
| US09571989B2 |
Transmission arrangement provided with a main transmitter and at least one receiver apparatus
A transmission arrangement includes a main transmitter (100) for transmitting a first broadcast transmission signal in a reception area (104), and a receiver apparatus (106) adapted to receive the first broadcast transmission signal (102) and to transmit a second broadcast transmission signal (110) in response to the reception of the first broadcast transmission signal. The first broadcast transmission signal (102) includes subsequent first information packets (IPMT1, IPMT2, IPMT3, . . . ) with subsequent first information packets (IPMTi) having at least two subsequent information blocks (IBMTi.1, IBMTi.2) having substantially the same information. The second broadcast transmission signal includes subsequent second information packets (IPRS1, IPRS2, IPRS3, . . . ) with subsequent second information packets (IPRSi) having at least one information block (IBRSi). The second information packets (IPRSi) of the second broadcast transmission signal (110) are of substantially the same length in time as the first information packets (IPMTi) of the first broadcast transmission signal and the information blocks (IBRSi) of the second information packets are of substantially the same length in time as the information blocks (IBMT i,j) of the first information packets. The receiver apparatus (106) is further adapted to transmit the second broadcast transmission signal such in time, that the formation blocks (IBMTi.2, IBMT i+1.2, . . . ) in the first information packets in the first broadcast transmission signal are correlated in time with the at least first information blocks (IBRS i, IBRS i+1, . . . ) in the second information packets in the second broadcast transmission signal. This results in an increase of the reception area of the main transmitter by the reception area of the receiver apparatus. |
| US09571988B2 |
Location based assisting apparatuses, methods and computer readable mediums
An apparatus includes at least one processor and a transceiver. The at least one processor is configured to execute computer readable instructions to: acquire first location information representing locations of a plurality of user terminals, second location information representing a location of at least one vehicle, and third location information representing a location of a destination of the plurality of user terminals; and determine a route from the location of the at least one vehicle to the location of the destination based on the first location information, the second location information and the third location information, wherein the route includes the location of each of the plurality of user terminals. The transceiver is configured to transmit the route to the plurality of user terminals. |
| US09571987B2 |
Seat management system
A seat management system includes a moving apparatus capable of wirelessly communicating directly with each of a plurality of terminal devices while autonomously moving, and an information management apparatus. The information management apparatus includes a first storage section storing therein a seat layout chart, a receiving section operable to receive identification information of a user of each of the terminal devices and current position of the moving apparatus, acquired and transmitted by the moving apparatus, a seat specifying section operable, based on layout positions of a plurality of seats indicated in the seat layout chart, and the received current position, to specify one of the seats on which a specific one of the terminal devices as a replier of the identification information is used, and a seat layout chart update section operable to add the identification information to the specified seat in the seat layout chart. |
| US09571983B1 |
Freight vehicle monitoring using telecommunications data
A method for freight vehicle monitoring includes obtaining historical telecommunications data, performing vehicle location identification using the historical telecommunications data, wherein performing the vehicle location identification comprises using a machine learning based algorithm to determine one or more meaningful vehicle locations, identifying, based on the one or more meaningful vehicle locations, if one or more telecommunications devices are those of a freight vehicle occupant, and tracking a location of the one or more telecommunications devices identified as those of a freight vehicle occupant. |
| US09571979B2 |
Methods and apparatus for cell tower location estimation using multiple types of data sources
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for estimating, based on data collected from multiple types of data sources, the locations of cell towers. A first source is ranked relative to a second source based on the associated accuracy of each source with respect to estimating the location of a cell tower. Data collected from the higher-ranking source is used to identify estimated locations for cell towers from which such data has been collected. Data collected from the lower-ranking source is thereafter used to identify estimated locations for cell towers from which such data has been collected, to the extent that an estimated location for the cell tower has not already been identified via the data collected from the higher-ranking source. In an example method, the higher-ranking source is associated with RF Layer 3 data and/or messages, and the lower-ranking source is associated with RF Layer 1 data and/or messages. |
| US09571974B2 |
Device searching method and electronic device supporting the same
An electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a first communication module configured to support a first communication method, a second communication module configured to support a second communication method, a memory configured to store data used for operations of the first communication module and the second communication module, and a processor electrically connected to the first communication module, the second communication module, and the memory. |
| US09571967B2 |
Mobile station, wireless base station device, wireless communication system, and data distribution method
To limit users to share information to those located within a certain area, a wireless communication system distributes data from a wireless base station device to a mobile station. The mobile station is a mobile station that transmits data to the wireless base station device of a cell where the mobile station is located, and includes an information identifier assigning unit for assigning an identifier when the data to transmit is of a predetermined kind. The wireless base station device is a wireless base station device that broadcasts a signal to the mobile station in the cell of the wireless base station device, and includes an information distribution determining unit for when the identifier indicating that data is of the predetermined kind is assigned to data received from the mobile station, removing the identifier from the data and generating the signal including the data from which the identifier is removed. |
| US09571964B1 |
Quantifying mobility of mobile devices via a privacy preserving mobility metric
Embodiments of the invention generate metrics quantifying the mobility of a mobile device without persisting information related to the device's specific location at any given time. Specifically, at multiple intervals, a value of a mobility metric is computed based on the distance between the current location of the mobile device and a previously identified origin location of the mobile device. The values of the mobility metric computed over a period of time quantify the overall mobility of the mobile device. The mobility metric does not provide any information regarding the specific location of the mobile device at any given time. |
| US09571960B2 |
Personalized method for enhancing service, network side device, and mobile user equipment
A personalized method for enhancing a service, a network side device and a mobile user equipment are provided. The network side device provides an enhanced service for a user equipment located at a service location preset by a user. The network side device comprises a service location determination module and an enhanced service control module. The service location determination module is configured to maintain the service location preset by the user. The enhanced service control module is configured to indicate to provide the enhanced service for the user equipment located at the service location preset by the user. The mobile user equipment comprises an enhanced service indication module. The enhanced service indication module is configured to send a user indication to the network side device to enable the network side device to provide the enhanced service for the user equipment located at the service location preset by the user. |
| US09571959B2 |
Communication device for mobile body, communication system for mobile body, and automatic time correction method featuring communication device for mobile body
The base station, which is installed in an aircraft and is capable of communicating with a terminal, comprises a wireless communication component that can be connected to the terminal, and a controller that controls the wireless communication component. The controller acquires regional information indicating at least the destination of the aircraft, determines time zone information corresponding to regional information, produces a time correction instruction according to the time zone information, and transmits the time correction instruction through the wireless communication component to the terminal. |
| US09571958B2 |
Anonymous location service for wireless networks
An anonymous location wireless network service for use in a wireless network. The service provides content providers with the location of network users without revealing their identities. The service includes a wireless network having a proxy server, a network communication link to a plurality of web sites, and a wireless communication link to a plurality of handheld devices. The proxy server blocks identity by reading the location and identity information of network devices, generating dummy identifications, relating the dummy identifications to the identity information, storing the relationships in a memory storage, and forwarding the location information and dummy identifications to the global computer network. Upon receiving messages from the global computer network, the proxy server reads the dummy identifications, looks up the related identification information in the memory storage, and forwards the data to the appropriate network devices. |
| US09571957B2 |
Systems and methods for enabling additional devices to check in to bluetooth low energy (BLE) beacons
Systems and methods are provided for checking many users in to a location using a Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) beacon. The provided systems and methods may allow a BLE beacon to facilitate a check in with a remote server that processes check ins and then disconnect from the device used to check in. The device may be assigned a unique identifier that may be broadcast from the device during the check in so that the BLE beacon can quickly scan for the identifier and connect with the device based on the identifier to provide content and other information to the device. |
| US09571956B2 |
Mobile device pairing
Systems and methods for pairing electronic devices are provided. In an example embodiment, gesture data resulting from a physical user gesture associated with a first device and a second device is received. Features are extracted from the gesture data. An association between the first device and the second device is identified based on the extracted features. A communicative coupling is initiated between the first device and the second device in response to identifying the association. |
| US09571953B2 |
Methods and systems for implementing a repetition level for a channel
At least one example embodiment discloses a user equipment (UE) including a memory configured to store a selected physical random access channel (PRACH) repetition level and a processor configured to monitor a duration of a timer, the duration indicating a length of time to use the PRACH repetition level. |
| US09571952B2 |
Offloading of data to wireless local area network
Methods, systems, and devices are described for intercepting socket calls from applications installed on a mobile device while a first wireless interface is active. The first wireless interface is a cellular interface. Upon determining to release the intercepted socket calls to the socket layer, a second wireless interface is activated. The second wireless interface is a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) interface. The sockets calls are released to the socket layer and transmitted using the activated second wireless interface. Upon substantially completing the socket calls, the second wireless interface is deactivated. The intercepting of the socket calls and the activation of the second wireless interface occurs while the mobile device is in an idle mode. |
| US09571950B1 |
System and method for audio reproduction
Systems and methods of audio reproduction are described. In one embodiment, one or more processors can be configured, for example, to receive an L channel signal and an R channel signal, to combine the L channel signal and the R channel signal, to average the combined signal, to detect an impulse signal in the averaged signal, to multiply the impulse signal, to scale the multiplied impulse signal, and to add the scaled impulse signal to the averaged signal to form a resultant signal. Sound can be generated, for example, by speakers based on at least the resultant signal. |
| US09571946B2 |
Hearing device with closure mechanism
A hearing device includes: a housing with a frame; a battery door attached to the housing and configured to pivot in relation to the housing about a pivot axis, the battery door having a side wall with a first wall surface at least partly defining a battery compartment with a battery axis, the first wall surface comprising contact points for supporting a battery, the contact points having equal distances to the battery axis, wherein a first vector extends from the battery axis and perpendicularly crosses the pivot axis in a first direction to the pivot axis; and a closure mechanism comprising a protruding member with a distal end, and an engagement member having a first arm with a first distal end, wherein the protruding member is configured to engage with the engagement member when the battery door is in a closed position. |
| US09571945B2 |
Hearing aid having receiver
A hearing aid according to an embodiment includes a hardware module, a case, and a receiver module. The hardware module is configured to control the hearing aid. The case has an open side and an internal space for accommodating the hardware module. The receiver module is united with the case to form an integrated structure. The receiver module includes a receiver connector fixedly connected at one side thereof with the case, and a receiver formed at the other side of the receiver connector. The hearing aid may further include a case interface unit fixedly formed at a closed side of the case. The hearing aids according to other embodiments are also disclosed. |
| US09571942B2 |
Hearing device and a method of compensating a frequency difference between a transmitter and receiver
A hearing device includes: a processing unit; a filter; and a wireless receiver; wherein the processing unit is configured to determine a time difference between a start of the wireless receiver and a reception of a corresponding data packet from a transmitter; wherein the filter is configured to determine a time period as a function of a plurality of time differences that include the time difference determined by the processing unit; and wherein the processing unit is further configured to control the wireless receiver such that the wireless receiver is started in the time period before reception of a subsequent data packet from the transmitter. |
| US09571941B2 |
Dynamic driver in hearing instrument
A hearing instrument includes a first speaker having a first frequency range. The hearing instrument also includes a second speaker that is disposed in the ear of a listener. The second speaker has a second frequency range that is wider than the first frequency range. A microphone unit is coupled to the first speaker and the second speaker. The first speaker creates replacement sounds within the first frequency range that replicate sounds that are lost to the listener as a result of an occlusion effect at the second speaker. The replacement sounds are presented to the listener. |
| US09571939B2 |
Hearing aid positioning system and structure
A hearing aid includes a relatively rigid shell which holds hearing aid electronics and one or more flexible, shape-retaining filaments attached to the hearing aid shell. The filament(s) extend(s) out a proximal side of the hearing aid shell having a shape which interacts with the user's ear anatomy such as the conchae bowl. The shape determines an insertion depth of the hearing aid shell into the user's ear canal, and a spring action biases the hearing aid toward the desired insertion depth. The hearing aid supported by the filament(s) provides an open, unoccluding position in the ear canal. |
| US09571930B2 |
Audio data detection with a computing device
Various techniques for detecting are described herein. In one example, a method includes detecting a position of a computing device and selecting a plurality of microphones to detect audio data based on the position of the computing device. The method can also include calculating location data corresponding to the audio data, the location data indicating the location of a user and modifying a far field gain value based on the location data. |
| US09571929B2 |
Sound accessory device and operating method thereof
A sound accessory device is provided. A receiving unit of the sound accessory device receives a first sound from a first external device. A sound output unit outputs a first sound. A sensing unit senses a second sound for triggering an output control of the first sound from outside. A control unit controls the output of the first sound, if the second sound is received. The sound for triggering the output control of the first sound includes at least any one selected from a specific word, a voiceprint representing a speech of a specific person, a horn of a vehicle, an alarm sound, a notification sound of an external device, a sound of an animal, and a doorbell sound. |
| US09571928B2 |
Wireless sound equipment
A wireless sound equipment including a band having elasticity, a housing provided at both ends of the band, the housing having a receiver holder formed in one end, a receiver coupled/decoupled to/from the receiver holder, a printed circuit board provided in the housing, a rotary member provided in the housing and an audio cable having one end connected to the rotary member and the other end connected to the receiver is provided. The rotary member includes an audio substrate connected to the printed circuit board and having a circular connecting terminal and an audio brush connected to the one end of the audio cable to transmit a signal transmitted from the printed circuit board to the audio cable while moving over the circular connecting terminal of the printed circuit board. |
| US09571927B2 |
Digital/analogue conversion
This application relates to digital-to-analogue conversion with improved noise performance. Embodiments relate to digital-to-analogue conversion circuits (300) for converting a digital audio signal to an analogue audio signal having a digital-to-analogue converter (104) operable at a plurality of DAC clock rates. A first clock controller (301-1) controls the DAC clock rate based on an indication of the amplitude of the audio signal. The DAC clock rate (CK1) may be increased for low amplitude signal, where noise is important, to reduce the in-band thermal noise of the DAC. At higher amplitudes, when noise is less audible, the DAC clock rate may be reduced to avoid distortion. The amplitude of the audio signal may be monitored by a digital level detector (302) or in some cases by an analogue level detector (303). The DAC may be an oversampling DAC with an input interpolator (101) The conversion circuit may also include a word-length reduction module (102) and a dynamic error matching module (103) whose clock rates may also be varied based on the signal. |
| US09571925B1 |
Systems and methods of reducing acoustic noise
A wearable device for detecting a user state is disclosed. The wearable device includes one or more of an accelerometer for measuring an acceleration of a user, a magnetometer for measuring a magnetic field associated with the user's change of orientation, and a gyroscope. The wearable device also includes one or more microphones for receiving audio. The wearable device may determine whether the orientation of the wearable device has changed and may designate or re-designate microphones as primary or secondary microphones. |
| US09571915B2 |
Headset equipped with material that can change in size
A headset equipped with one or more materials that can change in size to facilitate the wearing experience by the user. The change in size may provide for a more accurate fit for the user to prevent or reduce the likelihood of the headset inadvertently moving away from the user's ear (e.g., falling out from the ear canal). The changeable size may also be used to convey aspects of the received sound to provide a more powerful listening experience. The material may be constructed from an electroactive polymer that changes in size when stimulated by an electric field. The headset includes a controller with an input for a user to control the size of the material. |
| US09571914B1 |
Earbud headphones that convert into an accessory
Headphones are provided that can be formed into one or more loops of sufficient size to be worn as an accessory when the headphones are not in use. The one or loops can be formed by a magnetic closure. The headphones can be worn as a necklace, a bracelet, or around the waist. The cord of the headphones can be accessorized with one or more additional components including a chain, a thread, multiple threads, a wire, a string of beads, or a string of charms. |
| US09571913B2 |
Smart flexible interactive earplug
An embodiment of the invention provides a resiliently deformable and flexible in-ear sound device having stretchable electronic circuitry. The in-ear sound device may be configured in a variety of ways, including, but in no way limited to a smart earplug, a flexible personal sound amplification product, a personal music player, a “walkie-talkie” and the like. |
| US09571905B2 |
Pluggable module
A pluggable module is provided which is configured to be connected into a pluggable port of a radio base station. The pluggable module is associated with at least one sensor for collecting external sensor data. The pluggable module comprises at least one communication interface, a processor, and a memory for storing software comprising computer program code which, when run in the processor, causes the pluggable module to collect pre-specified external sensor data from at least one sensor associated with the pluggable module and communicate the collected external sensor data to a centralized server via the at least one communication interface. |
| US09571891B2 |
System and apparatus enabling conversation between audience and broadcast or live-streamed media
Disclosed is a system, method and apparatus for opinion polling of broadcast or live streamed media. The scalable system enables real time analysis and display of continuously updated audience opinion data. A computing device with a touchscreen may be used to input personal opinion, view program content, and observe compiled audience reaction, simultaneously. Content and reaction may also be viewed separately. Granularity of data is substantially improved as is nuanced comprehension of responses. Iterative opinion input is enabled, in both numerical rating and textual comment. Unsolicited, top-of-mind audience reaction is accommodated while latency is reduced to a near conversational level. A rich consumer data base may be correlated to opinion. The apparatus enabling system function communicates tactilly to the user the opinion being output by the device. |
| US09571889B2 |
System and method of authorizing a device in a network system
A particular method includes receiving, at a device, an identifier of a set top box. The method also includes determining, at the device, based on the identifier of the set top box, whether the set top box is capable of supporting a high-definition television service or a digital video recording service. The method further includes selectively sending a power-up event to a service provider based on determining whether the capabilities of the set top box match a pending order. |
| US09571885B2 |
Method and apparatus for an energy-efficient receiver
One or more circuits may comprise at least one first-type analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and at least one second-type ADC. The circuit(s) may be operable to receive a plurality of signals, each of which may comprise a plurality of channels. The circuit(s) may be operable to digitize a selected one or more of the channels. Which, if any, of the selected channels are digitized via the at least one first-type ADC and which, if any, of the selected channels are digitized via the at least one second-type ADC, may be based on which of the plurality of channels are the selected channels and/or based on power consumption of the circuit(s). A bandwidth of each first-type ADC may be on the order of the bandwidth of one of the received signals. A bandwidth of each second-type ADC may be on the order of the bandwidth of one of the plurality of channels. |
| US09571881B1 |
Video electronic programming guide
Systems and methods for providing a video electronic programming guide (“video EPG”) may include outputting a primary program for display on a display screen, receiving a command to activate the video EPG, and in response to receiving the command, outputting a plurality of widgets for display on a display screen. Each of the plurality of widgets may represent a category of broadcast programs. Systems and methods may include receiving a widget selection for one of the plurality of widgets and outputting a video menu corresponding to the selected widget for display on the display screen. The video menu includes a plurality of video scenes, whereby each of the plurality of video scenes represents a broadcast program categorized in the selected widget. Systems and methods may include receiving a program selection for one of the plurality of video scenes. |
| US09571880B2 |
Pixel clock generation circuit and method thereof
This invention discloses circuits and methods for generating a pixel clock. The circuits utilize an image signal of a first format to generate a pixel clock, which can be utilized to generate an image signal of a second format. The circuits include a reference clock generation circuit, an image processing circuit, and a clock adjustment circuit. The reference clock generation circuit generates a reference clock. The image processing circuit processes the image signal of the first format to generate a control signal. The clock adjustment circuit, which is coupled to the reference clock generation circuit and the image signal processing circuit, generates the pixel clock according to the reference clock and the control signal. The control signal is substantially a periodic signal, whose frequency is proportional to the frequency of a synchronization signal of the image signal of the second format. |
| US09571876B2 |
Virtual set-top box device methods and systems
An exemplary method includes virtual set-top box (“STB”) device system receiving a registration request to register a mobile computing device to operate as a virtual STB device, verifying that the mobile computing device is within a predefined vicinity of a dedicated STB device that is located at a user premises, providing, to the mobile computing device, a virtual STB key for use by the mobile computing device to operate as the virtual STB device by leveraging access rights of an end-user account of a media content distribution service to access the media content distributed by way of the media content distribution service, and facilitating sharing of the virtual STB key with a media content processing device for use by the media content processing device to access the media content distributed by way of the media content distribution service. Corresponding systems and methods are also described. |
| US09571867B2 |
Method and system for authorizing playback from multiple devices
A system and method for using content on multiple devices includes a head end associating a first user device and a second user device with a user account and authorizing the first user device and the second user device to receive content. The first user device forms a selection signal corresponding to a first content. The head end communicates the first content to the first user device corresponding to the selection signal. The first user device displays the first content on a first display associated therewith. The second user device receives the first content and displays the first content on a second display associated with the second user device. |
| US09571866B2 |
Video display system
The present disclosure relates to a system for multiplexing (i.e. combining multiple signals into one signal) both a plurality of video content (live and deferred time) and multiple video access mediums (such as cable television, satellite, internet video (clips, programming and movies), video games, DVD players, etc.) in a viewer friendly manner to enhance entertainment and other entertainment possibilities. The output of a selected video content is seen in a container known as a video container. Multiple video containers can be resized and positioned on a large screen television or other display device under viewer control. Control of video containers' video content or other content viewed, audio, and a host of other properties are done via web page controls or preferably connected mobile devices such as smart phones, tablets or other devices. |
| US09571855B2 |
Region sizing for macroblocks
Coding techniques for a video image compression system involve improving an image quality of a sequence of two or more bi-directionally predicted intermediate frames, where each of the frames includes multiple pixels. One method involves determining a brightness value of at least one pixel of each bi-directionally predicted intermediate frame in the sequence as an equal average of brightness values of pixels in non-bidirectionally predicted frames bracketing the sequence of bi-directionally predicted intermediate frames. The brightness values of the pixels in at least one of the non-bidirectionally predicted frames is converted from a non-linear representation. |
| US09571851B2 |
Inter prediction method and apparatus using adjacent pixels, and image encoding/decoding method and apparatus using same
The present disclosure relates to an inter prediction method and apparatus using adjacent pixels, and a video encoding method and apparatus using the same. The inter prediction method for a predictive encoding includes: determining a current motion vector by estimating a motion of a current block; generating a reference block indicated by the current motion vector; calculating a motion compensation coefficient or an average compensation coefficient by using pixels neighboring the current block and pixels neighboring reference block; generating a changed reference block reflecting the motion compensation coefficient or the average compensation coefficient in the reference block; and determining the changed reference block as a predicted block of the current block. The present disclosure reduces a difference between an actual block and a predicted block by more accurately predicting the block to be encoded, thereby improving the compression efficiency. |
| US09571846B2 |
Data storage and access in block processing pipelines
Block processing pipeline methods and apparatus in which reference data are stored to a memory according to tile formats to reduce memory accesses when fetching the data from the memory. When the pipeline stores reference data from a current frame being processed to memory as a reference frame, the reference samples are stored in macroblock sequential order. Each macroblock sample set is stored as a tile. Reference data may be stored in tile formats for luma and chroma. Chroma reference data may be stored in tile formats for chroma 4:2:0, 4:2:2, and/or 4:4:4 formats. A stage of the pipeline may write luma and chroma reference data for macroblocks to memory according to one or more of the macroblock tile formats in a modified knight's order. The stage may delay writing the reference data from the macroblocks until the macroblocks have been fully processed by the pipeline. |
| US09571845B2 |
Method and apparatus for video encoding for each spatial sub-area, and method and apparatus for video decoding for each spatial sub-area
Provided are a video encoding method and a video decoding method according to spatial subdivisions based on splitting a picture into a first tile and a second tile, and splitting a current tile among the first tile and the second tile into at least one slice segment, encoding the first tile and the second tile, independently from each other, and encoding maximum coding units of a current slice segment among the at least one slice segment included in the current tile, with respect to the at least one slice segment included in the current tile. |
| US09571838B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method
Provided is an image processing apparatus including: a decoding section configured to decode a prediction parameter including a gain and an offset by which each color component of a first layer is multiplied, the prediction parameter being used when an image of a second layer having a larger luminance dynamic range than the first layer is predicted from an image of the first layer, and a prediction section configured to predict the image of the second layer from the image of the first layer using the prediction parameter decoded by the decoding section. |
| US09571837B2 |
Color blending prevention in video coding
A method for color blending prevention in video coding may include selecting, in a mode decision phase of an encoding of a current video frame, to encode an output bitstream in skip mode, wherein the skip mode includes altering encoding of the coding unit by setting luma component transform coefficients for the coding unit to zero, revaluating the selection of the skip mode based on quantized chroma coefficients, the quantized chroma coefficients generated from transformed and quantized residual chroma components, confirming the selection of the skip mode when there are no non-zero quantized chroma coefficients, and revoking the selection of the skip mode when there are non-zero quantized chroma coefficients, wherein the non-zero quantized chroma coefficients are transmitted when the selection of the skip mode is revoked. |
| US09571835B2 |
Method and apparatus for processing a signal
Example embodiments are directed toward a method of decoding a multi-view video signal using a video decoding apparatus including using a global motion vector of a non-anchor current picture in a current view to determine a corresponding block. A reference block in the current view is then determined using motion information of the current block that is generated from motion information of the corresponding block. A pixel value of the current block is predicted using the reference block in order to raise efficiency in signal processing of the multi-view video signal. |
| US09571829B2 |
Method and device for encoding/decoding with quantization parameter, block size and coding unit size
An encoding includes: obtaining, by an encoder, data to be encoded, where the data to be encoded is at least one LCU; determining, a quantization depth parameter of the LCU according to a preset bit rate control algorithm, and adding the quantization depth parameter into the data to be encoded; determining, a QP of each CU according to a size of a minimum picture block and a size of each CU included in the LCU; calculating, by the encoder, a QP difference of each CU according to the QP of each CU and a QP prediction value of each CU; for each CU that satisfies a preset condition, carrying, by the encoder, the QP difference of the CU in the CU; and encoding, by the encoder, the quantization depth parameter, the QP difference of the CU that satisfies the preset condition, and each CU to obtain a bit stream. |
| US09571828B2 |
Image encoding apparatus, image encoding method and program
An image encoding apparatus includes an encoding unit which encodes an input image of a block, a calculating unit which calculates a plurality of evaluation values for the block, an identifying unit which generates identification information by comparing a plurality of evaluation values calculated by the calculating unit with a plurality of threshold values, and a controller which controls a quantization parameter on the basis of the identification information identified by the identifying unit. |
| US09571826B1 |
Integrated diagnostic and debugging of regional content distribution systems
System, method, and computer program product embodiments are disclosed for integrated diagnosis and debugging of content distribution systems. A system includes a networking module that receives, from a central server system, instructions for running network diagnostics on a cable headend. A diagnostics environment module is configured to perform diagnostic operations based on the received instructions. The networking module transmits results of the diagnostic operations to the central server system. |
| US09571824B2 |
Stereoscopic image display device and displaying method thereof
A stereoscopic image display device includes a display including a plurality of pixels and displaying an image according to image data generated by processing an input video signal, and a controller for controlling the processing of an input video signal. The controller includes an image change gap setter for setting a first image change gap by using a user's reference input value, a calculation and correction unit for calculating an actual distance of the user who views a display image based on the user's observation position coordinate data, correcting the first image change gap corresponding to the actual distance, and calculating a second image change gap, and an image mode selector for selecting an image mode realized by the display, determining the user's position point with reference to the second image change gap, and generating image data for respective image modes. |
| US09571823B2 |
Image display apparatus and method
A 3D video system is disclosed. The 3D video system includes a frame rate converter that stores an input video signal in a rate conversion frame memory included in the frame rate converter, then reads and outputs the input video signal at a doubled clock rate, a signal format converter that converts a pixel sequence of the video signal output from the frame rate converter and outputs the converted video signal, a controller that outputs a timing signal based on the converted video signal, 3D glasses that transmit light alternately to left and right eyes, and switch the transmission of the light to the left and right eyes, based on the converted video signal and the outputted timing signal, and a spatial modulator that spatially modulates light emitted from a light source, based on the converted video signal. The 3D video system enables the modulated light to be viewed stereoscopically. |
| US09571821B2 |
Stereoscopic image displaying device, object proximity detecting device, and electronic apparatus
A stereoscopic image displaying device includes an outer surface that a detection target object approaches; a stereoscopic image generating unit that generates a three-dimensional stereoscopic image based on an input video signal, and a proximity sensor unit that is disposed on a side of the outer surface that is opposite to a side that the detection target object approaches and detects proximity of the detection target object to the outer surface based on a height that is a distance from the outer surface and is set based on parallax information included in the video signal. |
| US09571814B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating stereoscopic file
A method and an apparatus are provided for reproducing a stereoscopic file. The stereoscopic file includes a value indicating a first type representing stereoscopic content with one elementary stream or a second type representing stereoscopic content with two elementary streams. The stereoscopic file also includes an svmi box for stereoscopic video media information. |
| US09571810B2 |
Method and apparatus of determining perspective model for depth map generation by utilizing region-based analysis and/or temporal smoothing
A method for generating a target perspective model referenced for depth map generation includes at least following steps: receiving a first input image; utilizing a region-based analysis unit for analyzing a plurality of regions in the first input image to extract image characteristics of the regions; and determining the target perspective model according to at least the image characteristics. Another method for generating a target perspective model referenced for depth map generation includes: receiving a first input image; determining a first perspective model in response to the first input image; and utilizing a perspective model generation unit for generating the target perspective model by a weighted sum of the first perspective model and at least one second perspective model. |
| US09571804B2 |
Optical transmission system
Provided are an optical transmission system in which one can easily set a video signal cable, and an adapter that can be used in this system. There is provided an adapter for use in an optical transmission system in which an analog video signal or a digital video signal is transmitted between a pair of adapters using light. The adapter includes a first signal determination unit configured to make a determination as to whether a first electrical signal inputted to a common input terminal is an analog video signal or a digital video signal. |
| US09571802B2 |
Method for the detection of pulsed laser radiation and imaging laser alerter
Method for detecting pulsed laser radiation having two-dimensional resolution of the direction of incidence with a CCD sensor having an imaging optic. Method includes generating, in signal processing having sampling frequency of at least 5 kHz, single images by comparing each pixel of CCD sensor to respective threshold values and by storing a pixel value exceeding the respective threshold value for an image processing, ascertaining, in the signal processing, a mean or peak value of stored pixel values of the single image pixel-by-pixel over at least 10 samples, forwarding a signal image obtained in signal processing for image processing at image frequency of 10 Hz to 500 Hz, and identifying from signal image, in an image processing, at least one signal pixel representing incident laser radiation. Method further includes determining direction of incidence of laser radiation from position of signal pixels on signal image. |
| US09571801B2 |
Photographing plan creation device and program and method for the same
The present invention provides a device for creating a photographing plan by extracting a changed point from target points to preferentially photograph the extracted point. The photographing plan creation device includes: a photographed data reception part for receiving a first photographed data photographed by a flying object; a change determination part for comparing the first photographed data to a second photographed data which is the past photographed data stored in an image data storage part; a priority setting part for setting the shooting priority based on the comparison result; a photographing possibility determination part for determining whether photography is possible at the observation time; a photographing plan creation part for creating a photographing plan based on the shooting priority and the photographing possibility determination; and a shooting command transmission part for converting the photographing plan to a command and transmitting the command to the flaying object. |
| US09571796B2 |
Noncontact measuring device
A solution including a noncontact electronic measurement device is provided. The measurement device includes one or more imaging devices configured to acquire image data of a surface of an object located in a measurement region relative to the measurement device and one or more projected pattern generators configured to generate divergent pattern(s) of structured light, which impact the surface of the object within a field of view of the imaging device when the object is located in the measurement region. Using image data acquired by the imaging device(s), a computer system can measure a set of attributes of the surface of the object and/or automatically determine whether the measurement device is within the measurement region. An embodiment is configured to be held by a human user during operation. |
| US09571795B2 |
Image processing device and image processing program
An image processing device includes: an image receiving part configured to receive an image of a target workpiece on a surface of a conveying path captured by means of the imaging unit; a position acquiring part configured to acquire a position of the target workpiece in the captured image; a tilt acquiring part configured to acquire, by using the position of the target workpiece in the captured image acquired by means of the position acquiring part, a tilt angle of an imaging plane of the imaging unit relative to the surface of conveying path; and an outputting part configured to output assistant information used for assisting in the adjustment of the posture of the imaging unit by using the acquired tilt angle. |
| US09571792B2 |
Method for generating an immersive video of a plurality of persons
A method for interfacing a plurality of videoconferencing client devices the method comprising, in a computer server (5) connected to a client devices:—receiving a first client video stream (7) from the video routing client (4);—tagging a video image of the first client video stream received from the video routing client;—sending, through a bidirectional communication channel (14), the first client video stream (21) to a mixing client (2);—receiving, through the bidirectional communication channel with the mixing client, a mixed video stream (15) from said mixing client;—detecting in the mixed video stream received from the mixing client a video image portion which is different from the tagged video image of the first client video stream;—extracting the detected video image portion from the mixed video stream;—generating a second client video stream (23) from the extracted video image portion;—sending the second client video stream to the video routing client. |
| US09571781B2 |
Display apparatus with a sensor and camera and control method thereof
A display apparatus having a sensor and camera and a control method thereof are provided. Exemplary embodiments relate to a display apparatus and a control method thereof which determines through a sensor, such as a pyroelectric infrared ray (PIR) sensor, and a camera, whether a user intends to use the display apparatus, and drives the display apparatus based on the users intentions in order to reduce booting time. |
| US09571780B2 |
Display device and method for controlling panel self refresh operation thereof
A display device includes a source unit; and a sink unit connected with the source unit via an embedded display port interface for signal transmission between the source and sink units and to enable a panel self refresh (PSR) mode for reducing power consumption; a still image detector that is included in the source unit, and analyzes an input image to detect a still image; a compressor that is included in the source unit and losslessly compresses data of the still image by using a previously stored compression algorithm; and a PSR controller that is included in the source unit, compares a size of the losslessly compressed data with a size of a frame buffer of the sink unit in order to determine whether the data of the still image can be stored in the frame buffer in a losslessly compressed format without loss. |
| US09571778B2 |
Cradle system for audiovisual equipment
Methods and apparatuses for building and reconfiguring audiovisual equipment in a video production system. A wiring cradle may be installed in the video production system and one or more electrical or optical connections may be established between the wiring cradle and another element of the video production system. Electrical connections may be established through the wiring cradle between a video processing component mounted in the wiring cradle and at least one other component of the video production system according to an interconnection configuration for the video production system. The wiring cradle physically secures the wiring cradle to a rack or enclosure. Electrical connection may be established by automatically connecting inputs or outputs based on an interconnection configuration maintained in non-volatile storage provided in the wiring cradle. |
| US09571775B1 |
Image sensor power supply rejection ratio improvement through ramp generator in continuous time readout circuitry
A ramp generator for use in readout circuitry includes an integrator coupled to receive a ramp generator input reference signal to generate a reference ramp signal coupled to be received by an analog to digital converter. A power supply compensation circuit that is coupled to generate the ramp generator input reference signal includes a delay circuit including a variable resistor and a filter capacitor coupled to receive a power supply signal. The variable resistor is tuned to match a delay ripple from the power supply to a bitline output. A capacitive voltage divider is coupled to the delay circuit to generate the ramp generator input reference signal. The capacitive voltage divider includes a first variable capacitor coupled to a second variable capacitor that are tuned to provide a capacitance ratio that matches a coupling ratio from the power supply to the bitline output. |
| US09571771B2 |
Data transfer circuit, imaging device and imaging apparatus
A data transfer circuit includes a plurality of data transfer sections which transfer pixel signals of pixel columns which are different from each other, wherein the plurality of data transfer sections include transfer lines which transfer the pixel signals read from the pixel columns of an image sensor; and amplifying sections which amplify the pixel signals output from the transfer lines, and wherein the plurality of data transfer sections are connected to each other in series. |
| US09571770B2 |
Sense circuit and method of operation thereof and photoelectric conversion array connected to inverting input of sense circuit
A sense circuit includes a differential amplifier circuit including an inverting input section, a non-inverting input section and an output section, an electrical capacitor connected between the inverting input section and the output section, and a field effect transistor including a source, a drain, and a gate. One of the source and the drain is connected to the inverting input section, and the other of the source and the drain is connected to the output section. A reference potential is supplied to the non-inverting input section, and an output section of a photoelectric conversion cell having an added switching function is connected to the inverting input section. |
| US09571769B2 |
Solid-state image pickup device and method of driving the same
A solid-state image pickup device which includes, on a semiconductor substrate, an image pickup area which includes plural columns of pixels, and plural column amplifier circuits each provided at each column of pixels or at every plural columns of pixels, wherein: each of the column amplifier circuits includes at least two amplifier circuit stages; a preceding amplifier circuit is a variable-gain amplifier circuit and the switchable gains include plural one or more gains; and a subsequent amplifier circuit is capable of amplifying, at one or more gains, the signal amplified at one or more gains in the preceding amplifier circuit. |
| US09571766B2 |
Solid-state imaging device
A solid-state imaging device includes a sensor panel section and a readout circuit section. The sensor panel section is disposed on a glass substrate and has a photodetecting section including pixels arrayed in M rows and N columns, row selection lines, and readout lines. The readout circuit section is disposed on a substrate and has N integration circuits. Rectifier circuits are connected between nodes, between N panel-side connection points and the integration circuits, and a constant potential line. Circuit elements having resistance components are connected between the nodes and readout lines. |
| US09571765B2 |
Universal four-side buttable digital CMOS imager
An imager including sub-imager pixel arrays having a plurality of four-side buttable imagers distributed on a substrate and an on-chip digitizing readout circuit. Pixel groupings formed from among the plurality of four-side buttable imagers. The readout electronics including a buffer amplifier for each of the pixel groupings and connected to respective outputs of each four-side buttable imager of the pixel grouping. A plurality of shared analog front ends, each shared analog front end connected to respective multiple buffer amplifiers from among the plurality of pixel groupings. An analog-to-digital converter located at a common centroid location relative to the plurality of shared analog front ends, the analog-to-digital converter having a fully addressable input selection to individually select an output from each of the plurality of shared analog front ends. An output of the analog-to-digital converter connected to a trace on a back surface of the wafer substrate by a through-substrate-via. |
| US09571764B2 |
Image sensor and method of driving image sensor
An image sensor includes a pixel array. The image sensor may include a photoelectric conversion device generating electric charges according to photoelectric conversion in each of a plurality of pixels, a shutter of each of the plurality of pixels controlling movements of the generated electric charges according to a drive signal, a driving line connecting the shutters of all of the plurality of pixels of the pixel array, through which the drive signal is transmitted, and a plurality of driving buffers applying the drive signal to the driving line. |
| US09571762B2 |
Signal processor and signal processing method, solid-state imaging apparatus, and electronic device
There is provided a signal processor including a phase difference detection part configured to acquire a pixel value of one light-shielding pixel having a part of a light-receiving region shielded therein and pixel values of a peripheral pixel row of the light-shielding pixel in a light shielding direction. A corrected pixel value obtained by subjecting the pixel value of the light-shielding pixel to a reduced sensitivity correction is compared with the pixel values of the peripheral pixel row to detect a phase difference of the light-shielding pixel. |
| US09571761B2 |
Image-sensing method having a very short integration time
The invention relates to image sensors, and more particularly to matrix sensors having active pixels in CMOS technology. According to the invention, a method for imaging a scene with a very short integration time, by using a standard image sensor comprising a matrix of pixels, comprising photodiodes, and charge storage nodes, is provided. Two images of the same scene are produced under identical light conditions, one of the images corresponding to integration of charges during a first time interval with a duration Tint and the other image corresponding to a second time interval with a duration T′int longer than Tint, and a difference between these two images is established, representing an image integrated during a time interval T′int−Tint. The light may be provided by a light pulse (IMP). This method may be used for observing points in a scene that lie at a well-determined distance, the brevity of the integration time allowing good precision of the observation distance. |
| US09571759B1 |
Separate range tone mapping for component images in a combined image
Use of separate range tone mapping for combined images can help minimize loss of image information in scenes that have drastically different luminance values, i.e., scenes that have both bright and shadowed regions. Separate range tone mapping is particularly useful for combined images, such as those from spherical camera systems, which may have a higher probability of including luminance variability. The resulting increased bit depth of separate range tone mapping can make the transition between different images that make up a combined image more subtle. Each of a plurality of images that make up a combined image can use a different tone map that is optimized for the particular image data of the image. Multiple tone maps that are applied to overlapping regions of the plurality of images can subsequently be combined to expand the bit depth of the overlapping regions. |
| US09571757B2 |
Using infrared images of a monitored scene to identify windows
A camera system includes memory, a lens assembly arranged to direct light from a scene onto an image sensing element, an image sensing element configured to receive light from the scene via the lens assembly, at least one infrared illuminator configured to transmit infrared light, and a processor, coupled to the image sensing element and the illuminators. The processor is configured to operate the illuminators and the image sensing element in a first mode whereby infrared light transmitted by the illuminators and reflected from the scene is used to generate a two-dimensional image of the scene. The processor is also configured to operate the illuminators and the image sensing element in a second mode whereby infrared light transmitted by the illuminators and reflected from the scene is used to detect a first region, located within the scene, having a specific material. |
| US09571749B2 |
Flicker detecting method for image capturing device
A flicker detecting method for an image capturing device includes acquiring a first image, wherein pixel values of each row in the first image are acquired during a first period; acquiring a second image, wherein pixel values of each row in the second image are acquired during a second period; generating a third image according to the first image and the second image; and detecting flickers according to the third image; wherein the first period is different from the second period. |
| US09571748B1 |
Camera flash light direction management
Systems and method for controlling camera flash direction are provided. A system includes: a computing device including a processor; an image sensor operatively connected to the processor; a flash lighting system including at least one light emitting element; and a flash direction system including a fluidics system that is controllable to selectively adjust a position of the at least one light emitting element. |
| US09571741B1 |
Smart shutter in low light
A method is disclosed for improving the quality of photographs taken in low-light conditions by adjustment of shutter speed and digital gain based on a shutter prioritization value. Using a network of sensor, a digital camera processes various parameters, such as luminance of the scene and movement of the camera or of subjects within the scene, to compute a shutter prioritization value. The value is then used to select the most appropriate shutter speed and digital gain combination from a constant exposure curve. Higher prioritization values correspond to faster shutter speeds and higher digital gain. Lower prioritization values correspond to lower shutter speeds and lower digital gain. In further embodiments, the shutter prioritization value may be manually customized by a user in order to produce artistic effects. |
| US09571738B2 |
Image processing apparatus
According to one embodiment, an image processing apparatus includes a display unit, an image acquiring unit, a reduction processor, a combining unit, and a display processor. The display unit displays images. The image acquiring unit acquires a plurality of photographed images, with photography ranges thereof being gradually changed. The reduction processor reduces the photographed images acquired by the image acquiring unit. The combining unit combines the photographed images reduced by the reduction processor to generate a preview image. The display processor displays the preview image on part of the display unit that displays the photographed images acquired by the image acquiring unit. |
| US09571736B2 |
Electronic device and method for image processing
A method for displaying images is provided, including displaying, by an electronic device, a first image obtained from an image sensor; displaying, by the electronic device, a plurality of second images together with the first image, wherein each second image is generated based on the first image and a respective image filter; and responsive to a selection of at least one second image, generating a third image based on the first image and the selected second image's respective image filter and displaying the third image in place of the first image. |
| US09571735B2 |
Digital camera having low power capture mode
A digital camera system providing a low-power image capture mode includes an image capture system, an image display and a power management system. The power management system is used to provide a normal image capture mode wherein captured digital images are displayed on the image display as they are captured, and a low-power image capture mode wherein captured digital images are not displayed on the image display as they are captured. A user interface includes a first user control for selecting between the normal image capture mode and the low-power image capture mode, and a second user control for initiating a video capture operation. The system is configured such that if the first user control is activated while a digital video is being captured, the power management system switches between the normal image capture mode and the low-power image capture mode without interrupting the video capture operation. |
| US09571733B2 |
Image capturing
A camera array and method are disclosed for capturing and processing images of an area of terrain. For each of a plurality of time-steps within a time period, using each of a plurality of cameras in a camera array, an exemplary method includes: generating an image of a respective portion of terrain, wherein the cameras in the camera array have substantially fixed positions relative to each other, and the portions of terrain are such that the whole of the area of terrain has been imaged by the end of the time period; selecting a subset of the images such that the whole of the terrain is covered by the portions of the terrain in the images in the subset; and for an image not in the subset, if an object of interest is in that image, extracting a sub-image containing the object from that image. |
| US09571732B2 |
Display device and method for controlling the same
A display device and a method for controlling the same are disclosed in which a threshold range for generating a panorama image is indicated in accordance with a bending angle of a bending portion provided between a first area of a body provided with a first camera and a second area of a body provided with a second camera, whereby the panorama image may be generated using the first camera and the second camera. |
| US09571728B2 |
Image acquisition apparatus
A stable combined image is generated from a plurality of image signals having parallax and obtained at different focal positions. An image acquisition apparatus includes an image-acquisition optical system that collects light from a subject; an image acquisition element that acquires an image of the light collected by the image-acquisition optical system; a micro-lens array having an array of multiple micro-lenses arranged such that each micro-lens covers multiple pixels of the image acquisition element; and a focal-length changing section that is disposed at a pupil position of the image-acquisition optical system and that spatially changes a focal length so as to focus light passing therethrough at a plurality of different focal positions. |
| US09571722B2 |
Viewfinder utility
Disclosed is a viewfinder utility. The viewfinder receives image information from a camera and displays it on a screen of the user's device. Also in the viewfinder's display are icons associated with applications that can accept image information from the camera. By selecting an icon, a user sends captured image information to the associated application. Because the initial user interaction is with the viewfinder rather than with the application itself, there is no confusion caused by disparate application user interfaces. The viewfinder can also prevent some “lost moments” because the viewfinder is ready to capture a fleeting image even before the application is fully up and running and ready to accept it. Finally, in some embodiments the user can concurrently select more than one icon and can thus send the same image information to more than one application. |
| US09571721B2 |
Solid-state imaging device and electronic apparatus
An imaging apparatus, for example, a solid-state imaging device, includes a phase difference pixel, and an electronic apparatus that optimizes the optical properties (pupil separation performance) of the phase difference pixel, and the optical properties (light sensitivity) of a standard pixel. The solid-state imaging device includes a standard pixel and a phase difference pixel. The standard pixel includes a first optical waveguide that guides incident light to a light receiving region. The phase difference pixel includes a second optical waveguide that guides incident light to the light receiving region, and a first light shielding film provided on the upper layer side of the second optical waveguide. The upper end of the first optical waveguide of the standard pixel and the upper end of the second optical waveguide of the phase difference pixel are located at different heights. |
| US09571719B2 |
Image-capturing apparatus
An image-capturing apparatus of the present disclosure includes a focus lens, an image sensor that captures an object image formed via the focus lens and generates image data, and a controller that calculates a value relating to an in-focus position based on (i) first image data generated by the image sensor when the focus lens is at a first position and (ii) second image data generated by the image sensor when the focus lens is moved from the first position by a first moving amount and located at a second position, and the controller changing a next moving amount of the focus lens from the first moving amount based on the calculated value relating to the in-focus position. |
| US09571714B2 |
Apparatus and method for automatically activating a camera application based on detecting an intent to capture a photograph or a video
A method of automatically activating a camera application implemented in a mobile device in locked mode starts with the processor receiving a first signal from an accelerometer. The device's processor activates the camera application when the processor determines that the mobile device has remained in a stationary portrait or landscape position for a period of time based on the first signal. Activating the camera application includes signaling by the processor to the display device to display a camera screen from a locked screen. The processor may also receive a second signal from a proximity sensor that detects presence of a nearby object to the mobile device. When the processor determines that there is presence of the nearby object to the mobile device based on the second signal, the mobile device remains in locked mode and the processor does not activate the camera application. |