| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09604042B2 |
Tissue modification methods and apparatus
A method and apparatus for treating a stricture in a body lumen. The method comprises (a) sensing pressure being exerted by a treatment device on the stricture, (b) determining if enough force is being exerted on the stricture, (c) if enough force is being exerted on the stricture, timing the application of enough force, (d) determining if too much force is being exerted by the treatment device on the stricture, (e) if too much force is being applied to the stricture, decrementing the force being applied to the stricture, (f) determining if not enough force is being applied to the stricture, (g) if not enough force is being applied to the stricture incrementing the force being applied to the stricture, and (h) repeating (a)-(g) until (i) a desired pressure has been maintained on the tissue for a desired time. The apparatus comprises a device for exerting pressure on the stricture, a controller for controlling the amount of pressure the device exerts on the stricture, and a pressure sensor for sensing the pressure being exerted on the stricture by the device. |
| US09604039B2 |
Unobstructing microdevices for self-clearing implantable catheters
A self-clearing actuator configured to be positioned in a pore providing fluid communication into a central lumen of a ventricular catheter body is described. The actuator extends into a central bore via a cantilever beam having a first end emanating at the central bore and a second end terminating at the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to reciprocate within the central bore between a first position extending downward at an angle into the central bore and a second position substantially at or above the external surface of the catheter. The cantilever beam is stressed, e.g. via a composite compress layer, such that it is preloaded to nominally curve downward to extend the actuator into the second position. The actuator is preferably a magnet responsive to magnetic field such that the magnetic field drives the actuator toward the first position. |
| US09604032B2 |
Elastic cap for the protection of the distal end of a catheter having an inner and an outer hose
An elastic cap for covering the distal end of a catheter having inner and outer hoses, characterized in that the cap consists essentially of an elastic material, has a cavity in which the distal end of the inner and the outer hose of a catheter can be received, and the cap has a first opening via which the cavity is accessible from the outside, wherein prior to receiving the distal end of the catheter, the first opening has a diameter which is not larger than the outer diameter of the inner hose of the catheter and wherein the first opening is elastically expandable to a diameter which corresponds to the outer diameter of the outer hose. |
| US09604031B2 |
Medical article securement systems and methods of using same
Brackets, systems comprising a bracket, and methods for securing medical articles. The bracket can include a base, a post coupled to the base and extending upwardly from the base in a direction generally normal to a first major surface of the base, and an arm coupled to the base and extending generally parallel to the first major surface of the base. The arm can be spaced a distance from the first major surface of the base to define a channel under the arm that is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the medical article. The arm can be cantilevered, and the post and the arm can each be fixed with respect to the base. Methods can include abutting an external surface of the medical article against the post; and moving a portion of the medical article into the channel defined by the arm. |
| US09604030B2 |
Valves and hubs for tubular devices and methods for making and using them
A hub for a sheath, catheter, or other tubular device includes a first hub portion including a first hub lumen sized for receiving a medical device therethrough, and a second hub portion including a second hub lumen, the second hub portion coupled to the first hub portion such that the first and second hub lumens are aligned with one another and the first and second hub portions are spaced apart from one another to define a gap. A valve is secured within the gap between the first and second hub portions that includes a valve passage therethrough, e.g., for accommodating receiving a medical device through the first and second hub lumens into the tubular device, while providing a substantially fluid tight seal. |
| US09604027B2 |
Gas-treatment devices
An HME has exchange elements (4) at opposite ends of a tubular housing (1, 101) and a central port (2) for connection to a tracheal tube (3). An oxygen port (5, 105, 105′) is located centrally with the major part of it being contained within a recess (40, 140, 140′) on the exterior of the housing and extending at right angles to the length of the housing. The oxygen port (5, 105, 105′) opens into a wider passage (32, 32′) extending within the housing, which opens on the external face (30) of the two exchange elements (4). A large suction aperture (60) aligns with the port (2) opening to the tracheal tube (3) and is covered by a hinged flap (61) when not in use. |
| US09604023B2 |
Respiratory mask with ribbed contacting surface
A patient interface device (8) for delivering a flow of breathing gas to an airway of a patient is provided that includes a patient contacting component (9, 90) having a patient contacting surface structured to engage the face of the patient when the patient interface device is donned by the patient, the patient contacting surface also including a plurality of ribs (40, 52, 62, 72, 82, 96) extending therefrom. The patient contacting component may be, without limitation, a mask having a mask cushion, a forehead support having a forehead cushion, a cheek pad or a chin pad. |
| US09604022B2 |
Portable manual ventilation device
A portable, compact closed circuit ventilation device for manual ventilation of a patient undergoing a surgical or medical procedure that requires sedation as well as emergency management of respiratory failure. One example embodiment includes a closed breathing circuit having a manually squeezable bag, a carbon dioxide absorption canister, a plurality of valves, a gas port and a plurality of sensors for measuring Tidal Volume (TV), Peak Airway Pressure (PAP) and End Tidal CO2 (ETCO2). Another example embodiment includes an open breathing circuit having a bag, valves and sensors. A monitor displays the sensor measurements during the respiratory phases. In a spontaneously breathing patient the device may be used to assess the adequacy of patient's respiratory efforts. During manual or assisted ventilation, the monitor assures safe and efficacious ventilation by the closed breathing circuit. |
| US09604018B2 |
Aerosol therapy device
The disclosure relates to an aerosol therapy device including: a housing; an aerosol generator, which is arranged in the housing; an air inlet, which is formed in the housing upstream of the aerosol generator; and an air outlet, which is formed in the housing downstream of the aerosol generator to administer the aerosol produced, wherein an air flow from the air inlet to the air outlet can be generated by a negative pressure at the air outlet, wherein the air flow flows around the aerosol generator, wherein a truncated-cone-shaped flow channel, the central axis of which extends in a curved manner, is arranged between the aerosol generator and the air outlet. |
| US09604016B2 |
Bent capillary tube aerosol generator
An apparatus for generating aerosol comprises a capillary tube comprising at least one bend, fluid inlets, and an outlet along the bend. The capillary tube is heated to a temperature sufficient to volatilize fluid in the capillary tube, such that the volatilized fluid discharges from the outlet to form an aerosol. |
| US09604015B2 |
Single-use syringe
The present invention relates to a single-use syringe comprising a barrel (10) having an internal surface defining a chamber for retaining a fluid, a plunger (1) formed by an elongated body including a plurality of longitudinal fins (2) and optionally a piston (3) connected to the end of the plunger close to the needle, the external surface of the piston or of the end of the plunger in the case of not including a piston being in leak-tight connection with the internal surface of the barrel, where the barrel has a general external shape of a cylinder of revolution with a constant radius circular base and a variable internal shape, forming the wall of the barrel with variable thickness, generating a chamber inside which a plunger incorporating a plurality of fins (2) slides; each of the longitudinal fins (2) of the plunger has a constant height along its entire length but different from that of at least one of the other fins, which height is suitable in each fin so that the plunger (1) can be inserted tightly without the capability of rotating about itself through the space defined by the variable internal radius of the barrel; the length of at least one of the fins is also different from the length of at least one of the other fins so that the plunger includes a weakened area in the form of a hole at the end of the plunger close to the needle; the barrel further comprises at least two grooves in the internal face of the barrel, at least one being located in the distal part (8) and at least one in the proximal part (9) of the barrel with respect to the needle. |
| US09604014B2 |
System for detecting and removing a gas bubble from a vascular infusion line
A system for detecting and removing a gas bubble from a vascular infusion line, comprising a disposable cassette adapted for disposition intermediate the fluid line, the disposable cassette comprising a body comprising an inlet port, a chamber, an outlet port, and a purge port, a first passageway connecting the inlet port to the chamber, the first passageway comprising a first bubble detection section where a gas bubble may be detected within the first passageway, a second passageway connecting the chamber with the outlet port, and a first pinch valve disposed along the second passageway intermediate the chamber and the outlet port, and a third passageway connecting the chamber with the purge port, the third passageway comprising a second bubble detection section where a gas bubble may be detected within the third passageway, and a second pinch valve disposed along the third passageway intermediate the chamber and the bubble detection section. |
| US09604012B2 |
Barrel with cap, pre-filled syringe, and cap with connector
A barrel with a cap, a pre-filled syringe, and a cap with a connector that accommodate connection-receiving bodies of the Luer lock type and of the slip-in type, are provided. Some versions include: a connector (3) detachably coupled to a cap (2) so as to be separated from the barrel (1) together with the cap (2) when the connector (3) is located at an initial position where the connector (3) is attached to a barrel (1) via the cap (2); and a connector-side engaging part (33) that engages a barrel-side engaging part (13) of the barrel (1) when the connector (3) is located at an attached position that is closer to a proximal end in an axial direction of the barrel (1) than the initial position, allowing the connector (3) to remain attached to the barrel (1) by being detached from the cap (2) separated from a nozzle (11). |
| US09604011B2 |
Safety device for a pre-filled syringe and injection device
According to the invention, a safety device for a pre-filled syringe comprises a hollow support body for retaining the pre-filled syringe, a hollow needle shield that is movable relative to the support body from a first position to a second position, releasable mounting means to mount the pre-filled syringe within the support body and a spring means arranged within the support body in a non-energized or only slightly energized state. The movement of the needle shield from the first position to the second position fully energizes the spring means. |
| US09604009B2 |
Drive mechanisms suitable for use in drug delivery devices
A drive mechanism suitable for use in drug delivery devices is disclosed. The drive mechanism may be used with injector-type drug delivery devices, such as those permitting a user to set the delivery dose. The drive mechanism may include a housing, a dose dial sleeve, and a drive sleeve. A clutch is configured to permit rotation of the drive sleeve and the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are coupled through the clutch. Conversely, when the dose dial sleeve and drive sleeve are in a de-coupled state, rotation of the dose dial sleeve with respect to the housing is permitted and rotation of the drive sleeve with respect to the housing is prevented. In the de-coupled state, axial movement of the drive sleeve transfers force in a longitudinal direction for actuation of a drug delivery device. |
| US09603999B2 |
Infusion system using optical imager for controlling flow and method thereof
A method of operating an infusion pump includes transmitting light through or around a drop of fluid suspended from an end of a drip tube for the infusion pump, the end of the drip tube located in a drip chamber for the infusion pump, wherein the drip tube is configured for connection to a source of the fluid; receiving, using an optical system for the pump, light transmitted through or around the drop; transmitting, to a specially programmed microprocessor and using the optical system, data regarding the received light; and, using the microprocessor to calculate a volume of the drop using the data. |
| US09603996B2 |
System and method for insulin pump medical device including a slider assembly wherein images on display allow for highlighting and magnifying images
A medical system includes an input assembly for receiving one or more user inputs. The input assembly includes at least one slider assembly for providing an input signal. Processing logic receives the input signal from the input assembly and provides a first output signal and a second output signal. A display assembly is configured to receive, at least in part, the first output signal from the processing logic and render information viewable by the user. The second output signal is provided to one or more medical system components. The information rendered on the display assembly may be manipulatable by the user and at least a portion of the information rendered may be magnified. |
| US09603988B2 |
Subcutaneous vascular access ports
Ports for accessing vessels within a patient include passageways that can guide needles or other access devices directly into the vessels. The ports can be implanted subcutaneously within a patient. Some ports may be used in the creation and use of vascular access buttonholes. |
| US09603986B2 |
Device and method for processing and producing autologous platelet-rich plasma
A system and method are provided, including an integrated single-use kit, for processing whole blood to produce platelet rich plasma. A two stage spinning membrane separator, has a first stage for receiving whole blood and separating substantially all red blood cells from plasma and platelets, and a second stage for further separating platelet rich plasma from plasma. A first waste container is in fluid communication with the first stage of the separator for receiving separated red blood cells, while a second waste container is in fluid communication with the second stage of the separator for receiving separated plasma. An outlet line is in fluid communication with the second stage of the separator for receiving platelet rich plasma, and a reinfusion container is removably connected to the outlet line for receiving platelet rich plasma from the second stage of the separator. |
| US09603985B2 |
Blood treatment systems and methods
Dialysis systems comprising actuators that cooperate to perform dialysis functions and sensors that cooperate to monitor dialysis functions are disclosed. According to one aspect, such a hemodialysis system comprises a user interface model layer, a therapy layer, below the user interface model layer, and a machine layer below the therapy layer. The user interface model layer is configured to manage the state of a graphical user interface and receive inputs from a graphical user interface. The therapy layer is configured to run state machines that generate therapy commands based at least in part on the inputs from the graphical user interface. The machine layer is configured to provide commands for the actuators based on the therapy commands. |
| US09603984B2 |
Triple helix driveline cable and methods of assembly and use
A power cable having improved durability and associated methods of assembly and use are described herein. In one aspect, the power cable is adapted for use in powering an implantable circulatory pump system. The cable includes one or more conductors of uninsulated wire strands that are loosely packed so as to move relative one another during cable flexure. The driveline cable may include a plurality of conductors, each comprised of multiple uninsulated bundles of uninsulated, loosely packed wire strands of a conductive material, that are wrapped about a central core. The cable may include at least six conductors, each conductor having at least 200 wire strands of a 30 gauge or higher. The cable may include the plurality of wire strands wound in a Litz style configuration to provide improved durability over many cycles of use at reduced cost, improved integrity of the electrical connection and reduced diameter. |
| US09603983B2 |
Catheter pump arrangement and flexible shaft arrangement having a core
The invention relates to a flexible shaft arrangement having a flexible hollow shaft which has an end at the drive side and an end at the output side, wherein the hollow shaft is reinforced sectionally between these ends by a core extending in its interior. Stiffer and more flexible sections can hereby be selectively positioned within the shaft arrangement. |
| US09603982B2 |
Highly efficient breastpump and system for expressing breastmilk
The present invention provides a breastshield for use in a breastpumping system for expressing milk, the breastshield being of such a construction that substantially limits the amount of air between the breast/nipple and the breastshield surrounding the breast/nipple, and most preferably virtually eliminates any air at least in the area of the breast and nipple. In some embodiments, any air in the breastpumping system is substantially eliminated. With the amount of air limited, the mechanism used for generating the pressure difference in the breastshield (e.g., vacuum or negative pressure), such as a diaphragm pump, does not need to do as much work. Less energy is required for the expression of milk, and thus the size of pump used can be decreased, thereby reducing the overall cost of the device. |
| US09603977B2 |
Use of bacterial polysaccharides for biofilm inhibition
A method comprises preventing or inhibiting bacterial adhesion and/or bacterial biofilm development by treating a substrate with a composition of a soluble group II capsular polysaccharide obtained from a bacterial strain. |
| US09603974B2 |
Coating composition and medical device
A coating composition for drug-eluting medical devices, which enables a medical device to be delivered to a target tissue for the purpose of treating an affected blood vessel part such as restenosis, without easy separation of a drug from the medical device during the delivery process is provided. The coating composition for drug-eluting medical devices contains a water-insoluble drug and at least one selected from the group consisting of ester compounds of amino acids, which have a hydropathy index of the amino acid of zero or less than zero, and salts thereof. A drug coating layer, a drug-eluting medical device and a method of treatment are also provided. |
| US09603973B2 |
Local delivery of water-soluble or water-insoluble therapeutic agents to the surface of body lumens
A method and device for local delivery of a water-insoluble therapeutic agent to the tissue of a normal or diseased body lumen is disclosed. An expandable structure of a medical disposable device, such as a balloon of a balloon catheter, is coated with a non-durable coating which comprises poly(HEMA) complexed with iodine and has a substantially water-insoluble therapeutic agent dispersed therein. The medical disposable device is inserted into a body lumen, and expanded to contact the non-durable coating against the body lumen and deliver the substantially water-insoluble therapeutic agent to the body lumen tissue. |
| US09603972B2 |
Implant with antimicrobial coating
The invention relates to an implant with a coating (23) which releases silver ions in the human body and as a result has antimicrobial action. According to the invention, a first surface component of the coating (23) is formed by an anode material (25). A second surface component of the coating (23) is formed by a cathode material (26). The cathode material is higher in the electrochemical voltage series than the anode material (25). The cathode material (26) and the anode material (25) are connected to one another in an electrically conductive manner. Together with the body electrolyte in the environment of the implant, the anode material (25) and the cathode material (26) form a multitude of local galvanic elements. The antimicrobial action of the coating (23) is improved as a result. |
| US09603970B2 |
Biodegradable shape-memory material and method
A biodegradable material with shape retention ability may be prepared using a process that includes (a) dissolving a polymer that in a first solvent to obtain a first solution; (b) dissolving a poly-N-vinyl lactam (e.g., polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP)) in a second solvent to obtain a second solution; (c) mixing the first solution with the second solution to obtain a liquid mixture; and (d) preparing the biodegradable material using the liquid mixture in an electrospinning process. The polymer may include a copolymer of lactide and caprolactone, where the lactide preferably includes L-lactide. The first solution may be an aprotic solvent, preferably ethyl acetate. |
| US09603967B2 |
Placental tissue assembly
A placental tissue assembly for treating wounds or surfaces of a patient has one or more layers of placental tissue and a backing material. The one or more layers of placental tissue have a first side and a second side. The backing material is adhered to and covers one of either the first or second sides of the one or more layers of placental tissue to create the assembly. The assembly when applied onto a surface to be treated on the side of the tissue opposite the backing material adheres to the surface with an attachment force greater than an attachment force of the backing material adhered to the first or second side. This allows the backing material to be released leaving the placental tissue affixed to the surface to be treated. |
| US09603964B2 |
Hemostatic devices
Hemostatic devices for promoting blood clotting can include a substrate (e.g., gauze, textile, sponge, sponge matrix, one or more fibers, etc.), a hemostatic material disposed thereon such as kaolin clay, and a binder material such as crosslinked calcium alginate with a high guluronate monomer molar percentage disposed on the substrate to substantially retain the hemostatic material material. When the device is used to treat a bleeding wound, at least a portion of the clay material comes into contact with blood to accelerate clotting. Moreover, when exposed to blood, the binder has low solubility and retains a majority of the clay material on the gauze. A bandage that can be applied to a bleeding wound to promote blood clotting includes a flexible substrate and a gauze substrate mounted thereon. |
| US09603961B2 |
Equipment for sanitizing the air conditioning system of vehicles by means of radiant catalytic ionization
An object of this certificate of addition includes the compaction of the equipment into two modules (1 and 2) on a smaller scale so as to enable the installation of the modules directly in the air conditioning system of transportation vehicles or other means of transportation. |
| US09603960B2 |
Flexible article for UV disinfection
A device including a flexible substrate and an ultraviolet radiation system is disclosed. The ultraviolet radiation system can include at least one ultraviolet radiation source configured to emit ultraviolet radiation towards a surface to be disinfected, an ultraviolet transparent component configured to focus the ultraviolet radiation, and a control system configured to control the at least one ultraviolet radiation source. The device can include a hand article, such as a glove. |
| US09603941B2 |
Method of preparing dendritic drugs
Synthetic design of drug-incorporated novel dendrimer structures for quantitatively controlled drug delivery. The dendritic drugs have better control and thus a quantitative drug release can be obtained. There are no prior art dendritic drugs that control release both sequentially and quantitatively like the dendritic drugs disclosed herein. The dendritic drugs are formed by incorporating multiple same type drug units or more than two different drug types into a dendritic cascade structure to form a dendrimer drug. |
| US09603939B2 |
Platform drug delivery system utilizing crystal engineering and theanine dissolution
A method of treating Hodgkin's disease in a subject. The method involves administering to the subject an effective amount of a water-soluble composition which includes a cocrystal composition containing doxorubicin and a theanine enantiomer. |
| US09603935B2 |
Oral dispersible films
Described herein are orodispersible films comprising a film forming hydrophobic polymer, a disintegrant, a plasticizer and a stabilizer. |
| US09603931B2 |
Macromolecule for delivering protein, polypeptide or peptide drugs and a production method for the same, and a slow release composition for protein, polypeptide or peptide drugs and a production method for the same
The present invention relates to a macromolecule for delivering protein, polypeptide or peptide drugs and to a production method for the same, as well as to a slow release composition for protein, polypeptide or peptide drugs comprising the same, and more specifically relates to a polylactic acid derivative compound of Chemical formula 1 of which the numerical average molecular weight is no more than 7000 daltons and to a production method for the same, as well as to a slow release composition for protein, polypeptide or peptide drugs using the same and to a production method for the same. |
| US09603929B2 |
Combination of an oxidant, a photosensitizer and a wound healing agent for oral disinfecton and treatment of oral disease
The present document describes methods of use of photo activated compositions for oral disinfection and/or treatments which comprise at least one oxidant, at least one photoactivator capable of activating the oxidant, and at least one healing factor chosen from hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and allantoin, in association with a pharmacologically acceptable carrier. |
| US09603921B2 |
Virosome particles comprising antigens from influenza virus and hepatitis b virus
The present invention provides a virosome comprising a virosomal membrane comprising at least one lipid and envelope proteins of an enveloped virus and of the virosome and attached to said envelope proteins. Furthermore, the invention provides a vaccine comprising the virosome of the invention and, a method for the production of a virosome of the invention. Moreover, the invention provides a use of a virosome of the invention for the preparation of a vaccine, e.g. for the prevention or alleviation of a disease related to an HBV infection, and a method for the vaccination of a subject. |
| US09603916B2 |
Treatment and prevention of malaria
There are provided antigens, vectors encoding the antigens, and antibodies and other binding compounds to the antigens and uses thereof in the prevention or treatment of malaria. In particular, compositions are provided comprising a Reticulocyte-binding protein Homologue 5 (PfRH5) antigen having at least 90% identity with SEQ ID NO: 1, or a fragment thereof; or which comprise a viral vector that expresses PfRH5 antigen having at least 90% identity with SEQ ID NO: 2, or a fragment thereof. |
| US09603914B2 |
Mutant strains of Neospora and uses thereof
A mutant strain of Neospora spp, in which the function of the NcMIC3 protein and/or the function of the NcMIC1 protein is suppressed, and uses thereof in a pharmaceutical composition or in a vaccine composition. |
| US09603913B2 |
Globo H and related anti-cancer vaccines with novel glycolipid adjuvants
An immunogenic composition containing a glycan conjugate including a carrier protein, and a glycan including Globo H, an immunogenic fragment thereof, or stage-specific embryonic antigen-4 (SSEA-4), wherein the glycan is conjugated with the carrier protein through a linker. |
| US09603909B2 |
Composition capable of improving stability of bacteriophage lysin proteins
The present invention relates to a composition for improving the stability of bacteriophage originated lysin proteins greatly even when the composition contains the bacteriophage originated lysin proteins at a high concentration. More precisely, the present invention relates to a method and a composition for improving significantly the stability of SAL-1 or LysK, the bacteriophage originated lysin protein, included at a high concentration in the composition. |
| US09603908B2 |
Subcutaneous administration of iduronate-2-sulfatase
The present invention provides, among other things, compositions, kits and methods for subcutaneous delivery of lysosomal enzymes for effective treatment of lysosomal storage diseases. In some embodiments, the present invention provides methods for treating Hunter syndrome by subcutaneous administration of a replacement iduronate-2-sulfatase (I2S) protein. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a kit comprising an arrangement of components for subcutaneously administering iduronate-2-sulfatase (I2S) protein. |
| US09603907B2 |
Dry powder formulations of dNase I
DNase I formulations for pulmonary administration and, more particularly, but not exclusively, a dry powder formulation comprising, as an active ingredient, human DNase I, methods, dry powder inhalation devices and systems for the therapeutic use thereof are provided. |
| US09603901B2 |
Treatment of short bowel syndrome patients with colon-in-continuity
Intestinal absorption is enhanced in short bowel syndrome patients presenting with colon-in-continuity by treatment with a GLP-2 receptor agonist, such as teduglutide. |
| US09603898B2 |
Formulations of diluted amino acid segments and methods for making same
A formulation of a diluted amino acid segment is prepared by mixing an amino acid segment and a diluting agent to form a mixture. The mixture is serially diluted to produce a diluted formulation. The amino acid segment includes a peptide sequence that is the same as a portion of a longer peptide sequence found in a naturally occurring material. A homeopathic remedy can be prepared using the formulation. |
| US09603890B2 |
Methods for increasing the selective efficacy of gene therapy using CAR peptide and heparan-sulfate mediated macropinocytosis
Disclosed are compositions and methods for triggering disease selective macropinocytosis. The compositions can serve as a marker of disease activity and as a trigger of enhanced macropinocytosis in tissues undergoing disease remodeling such as wound healing, cancer, PAH, inflammation, diabetes, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, diseases of the endometrium, psoriasis, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, fibrotic disorders, interstitial cystitis, autoimmune diseases, asthma, acute lung injury, and adult respiratory distress syndrome. The compositions can also serve as a receptor for disease selective cell penetrating peptides in the cells and extracellular matrix of diseased tissues. |
| US09603887B2 |
Cannabinoid composition including a cytochrome p450 enzyme inhibitor
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising non-decarboxylated Δ9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), Cannabidiol (CBD), and at least one small molecule selected from Citric Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Citrus Essential Oil(s), Lecithin, one or more sugar(s), Resvertrol, and combinations thereof, wherein the composition exhibits an increased but negated psychoactivity with concurrent enhancement in therapeutic potency of THC and/or CBD. The present invention is further directed to methods of treating one or more disease(s) or disorder(s) modulated by the activation of the Cannabinoid CB1 and/or CB2 receptors, by administering a therapeutically effective amount of the composition of the present invention to a subject in need thereof. |
| US09603886B1 |
Method for treating a hangover
A juice drink for hangover treatment containing juiced ingredients of red onion, cucumber, and a leafy green vegetable, such as romaine lettuce to treat a hangover after consumption of alcohol. |
| US09603882B2 |
Method for modulating Th17 cells and method for treating a disease related to modulation of Th17 cells
The disclosure provides a method for modulating Th17 cells, including: administering an Antrodia cinnamomea (also named Antrodia camphorata or Taiwanofungus camphoratus) extract to a subject in need thereof, wherein the Antrodia cinnamomea extract has an effect of modulating Th17 cells. The Antrodia cinnamomea extract may include a fruiting body extract of Antrodia cinnamomea or a mycelium extract of Antrodia cinnamomea. |
| US09603880B2 |
Composition containing bacterium belonging to genus lactobacillus
A composition containing a Lactobacillus pentosus TUA4337L strain (accession number: NITE BP-1479), characterized in that the strain has proliferation ability in the small intestines and/or the large intestine, and preferably the small intestines, after having survived in the intestinal tract. Since the composition of the present invention contains lactic acid bacteria having proliferation ability in the intestinal tract, when ingested in the body, the lactic acid bacteria survive to the intestinal tract and proliferate, whereby the fat absorption can be blocked, and the weight gains can be blocked, so that the composition can be suitably used for the purposes of dieting effects. |
| US09603878B2 |
Probiotic and prebiotic compositions, and methods of use thereof for treatment and prevention of graft versus host disease
Probiotic compositions containing non-pathogenic microbial entities, e.g., bacterial or fungal entities, are described herein. The probiotic compositions may optionally contain or be used in conjunction with one or more prebiotics. Uses of the probiotic compositions to treat or prevent transplant disorders, e.g., graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), in a subject are also provided. |
| US09603876B2 |
Compositions and methods for restoring gastrointestinal microbiota following antibiotic treatment
The present invention relates to characterizing changes in mammalian bacterial gastrointestinal, cutaneous and nasal microbiota associated with antibiotic treatment and various disease conditions (such as asthma, allergy, obesity, metabolic syndrome, gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), eosinophilic esophagitis, gastro-esophageal junction adenocarcinomas (GEJAC), infections due to bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Clostridium difficile, vancomycin-resistant enterococci, etc.) and related diagnostic and therapeutic methods. Therapeutic methods of the invention involve the use of live bacterial inoculants that are capable of restoring healthy mammalian bacterial gastrointestinal, skin, and nasal microbiota. |
| US09603875B1 |
Method of making a consumable product with purified embryonated Trichuris suis ova
A method of making a consumable product containing purified embryonated Trichuris suis ova (TSO) preferably includes steps of: storing the TSO in an acidic solution; adding a food preservative to the acidic solution to produce a preservative-acid-solution; forming a mixing solution by raising the pH of the preservative-acidic-solution to match the pH of a food substance by titrating the preservative-acidic-solution with an acid neutralizer so that the pH changes at a rate of not more than 1 pH unit per 24 hours, preferably to a pH not higher than 5.0; and producing the consumable product by combining the mixing solution and the food substance while maintaining the temperature of the consumable product between 1 degree Centigrade and 47 degrees Centigrade. |
| US09603874B2 |
Method for enhancing a function of a T cell
Disclosed is a method for enhancing the function of a T cell, which is characterized by inhibiting the expression of programmed death-1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) and/or programmed death-1 ligand 2 (PD-L2) in the T cell. Also disclosed is a function-enhanced T cell which is produced by the function enhancement method. Further disclosed is a therapeutic agent comprising the function-enhanced T cell. The T cell can enhance an immune response to cancer, and is useful in an immunotherapy effective for cancer and the treatment or prevention of infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases. |
| US09603872B2 |
Methods and compositions for mitochondrial replacement therapy
The invention features methods, kits, and compositions for mitochondrial replacement in the treatment of disorders arising from mitochondrial dysfunction. The invention also features methods of diagnosing neuropsychiatric (e.g., bipolar disorder) and neurodegenerative disorders based on mitochondrial structural abnormalities. |
| US09603871B2 |
Methods of treating gastroesophageal reflux disease
Methods of treating gastro-esophageal reflux disease in a subject are provided. The methods can include administering an effective amount of a formulation to treat the gastroesophageal reflux disease, the formulation having a water soluble tannin combined with hydrogen peroxide in a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient; wherein, the tannin has a molecular weight ranging from about 170 Daltons to about 4000 Daltons; the tannin:peroxide weight ratio ranges from about 1:1000 to about 10:1; and, the composition at least inhibits a gastrointestinal spasm associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease in the subject when compared to a second subject in a control group in which the composition was not administered. |
| US09603870B2 |
Gold-based nanocrystals for medical treatments and electrochemical manufacturing processes therefor
The present invention relates to novel gold nanocrystals and nanocrystal shape distributions that have surfaces that are substantially free from organic impurities or films. Specifically, the surfaces are “clean” relative to the surfaces of gold nanoparticles made using chemical reduction processes that require organic reductants and/or surfactants to grow gold nanoparticles from gold ions in solution. The invention includes novel electrochemical manufacturing apparatuses and techniques for making the gold-based nanocrystals. The invention further includes pharmaceutical compositions thereof and the use of the gold nanocrystals or suspensions or colloids thereof for the treatment or prevention of diseases or conditions for which gold therapy is already known and more generally for conditions resulting from pathological cellular activation, such as inflammatory (including chronic inflammatory) conditions, autoimmune conditions, hypersensitivity reactions and/or cancerous diseases or conditions In one embodiment, the condition is mediated by MIF (macrophage migration inhibiting factor). |
| US09603866B2 |
Anti-fatigue composition, formulation and use thereof
An anti-fatigue composition consisting of 20(S)-protopanoxadiol and lycium barbarum polysaccharide. Experiments prove that the composition exhibits a significant anti-fatigue effect. In comparison with the effect attained by the single use of lycium barbarum polysaccharide or 20(S)-protopanoxadiol, the combined use of 20(S)-protopanoxadiol and lycium barbarum polysaccharide exerts an obvious synergistic effect. |
| US09603860B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions comprising active drugs, contraceptive kits comprising active drugs, and methods of administering the same
A pharmaceutical composition comprising an active contraceptive drug and one or more pharmaceutically-acceptable excipients. The pharmaceutical composition, when subjected to an in vitro dissolution test according to the USP XXIII Paddle Method, results in no more than 50% of said active drug initially present being dissolved within 30 minutes, and at least 50% of the active drug being dissolved in a time range from about 3 hours to about 4 hours. The pharmaceutical composition is administered daily to a patient having a BMI of about 25 kg/m2 or more for at least a portion of a treatment cycle. The pharmaceutical composition does not cause a number of days of bleeding events in the patient exceeding an average of 15% per treatment cycle in consecutive treatment cycles of administration after an initial treatment cycle of administration. |
| US09603856B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition or group of compositions for inhibiting autocrine HCG production in adult human cells
A pharmaceutical composition for use as medicament that inhibits inhibits autocrine Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) production and thus carcinogenesis in adult human cells, the composition comprising at least a first pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and an active agent that is a competitively binding progesterone antagonist binding to steroid receptors of human cells, wherein the composition is provided in units designed for the monthly, semi-annual or annual application of the active agent in annual dosages in the range between 0.1 mg to 10.0 mg per kg of person/body-weight. |
| US09603853B2 |
Formulations of viloxazine
Modified release formulations of viloxazine and methods of administering the same are disclosed. High-drug load formulations of viloxazine are further disclosed. |
| US09603851B2 |
Combination therapy
The present invention relates to methods for treating and/or preventing metabolic diseases comprising the combined administration of a GLP-1 receptor agonist and a DPP-4 inhibitor. |
| US09603847B2 |
Compositions and uses thereof
Compositions and their use in the treatment or prevention of hyperglycemia and related diseases or disorders are disclosed. |
| US09603846B2 |
Process for the preparation of apixaban
A crystalline Form N-1 of apixaban substantially free from one or more of: 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-7-oxo-6-(4-(2-oxopiperidin-1-yl)phenyl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-c]pyridine-3-carboxylic acid; 7-oxo-6-(4-(2-oxopiperidin-1-yl)phenyl)-1-phenyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-c]pyridine-3-carboxamide; or methyl 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-7-oxo-6-(4-(2-oxopiperidin-1-yl)phenyl)-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-c]pyridine-3-carboxylate, relative to apixaban by area percentage of HPLC and having a mean particle size equal to or greater than 100 μm. |
| US09603842B2 |
Pharmaceutical composition containing verbenone derivative for treating or preventing neurodegenerative disease
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition or a functional health food comprising a verbenone derivative and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof as active ingredients for treating or preventing a neurodegenerative disease. More specifically, the verbenone derivative according to the present invention reduces neuronal cell death and oxidative stress, and is highly effective in preventing ischemic brain damage and inflammatory cell migration in rats, thereby providing the pharmaceutical composition or the functional health food which is useful in treating neurodegenerative diseases. |
| US09603837B2 |
IPA as a therapeutic agent and a biomarker for disease risk for Huntington's disease
Indole-3-propionic acid as a marker and for treatment for Huntington Disease. |
| US09603832B2 |
Substituted 2-[2-(phenyl) ethylamino]alkaneamide derivatives and their use as sodium and/or calcium channel modulators
Substituted 2-[2-(phenyl)ethylamino]alkaneamide derivatives of formula (I) wherein X, Y, Z, R, R1, R2, R3, R′3 R4, R5, R6, R7 have the meanings defined in the specification and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, pharmaceutical compositions containing them as active ingredient and their use as sodium and/or calcium channel modulators useful in preventing, alleviating and curing a wide range of pathologies, including, but not limited to, neurological, cognitive, psychiatric, inflammatory, urogenital and gastrointestinal diseases, where the above mechanisms have been described as playing a pathological role. |
| US09603827B2 |
Method for preventing and/or treating hairy wart disease
Provided is a novel method for preventing and/or treating hairy wart disease which is a hoof and leg disease of ungulates. The method is carried out by administering an isothiocyanic acid ester such as allyl isothiocyanate to a hoof of an ungulate. Examples of ungulates targeted for application of the present invention include cows such as dairy cows as well as sheep, pigs and horses. |
| US09603826B2 |
Methods of reducing the risk of a cardiovascular event in a subject on statin therapy
In various embodiments, the present invention provides methods of reducing the risk of a cardiovascular event in a subject on statin therapy and, in particular, a method of reducing the risk of a cardiovascular event in a subject on statin therapy having a fasting baseline triglyceride level of about 135 mg/dL to about 500 mg/dL, and administering to the subject a pharmaceutical composition comprising about 1 g to about 4 g of eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl ester or a derivative thereof. |
| US09603823B2 |
Use of medium chain triglycerides for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease and other diseases resulting from reduced neuronal metabolism II
Methods and compositions for treating or preventing, the occurrence of senile dementia of the Alzheimer's type, or other conditions arising from reduced neuronal metabolism and leading to lessened cognitive function are described. In a preferred embodiment the administration of triglycerides or fatty acids with chain lengths between 5 and 12, to said patient at a level to produce an improvement in cognitive ability. |
| US09603819B2 |
Substituted aminobutyric derivatives as neprilysin inhibitors
The present invention provides a compound of formula I′; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R1, R2, R3, X and n are defined herein. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the compounds of the invention, and its therapeutic uses. The present invention further provides a combination of pharmacologically active agents and a pharmaceutical composition. |
| US09603817B2 |
Methods, compositions, and kits for treating pain and pruritis
The invention features a method for inhibiting one or more voltage-gated ion channels in a cell by contacting the cell with (i) a first compound that activates a channel-forming receptor that is present on nociceptors and/or pruriceptors; and (ii) a second compound that inhibits one or more voltage-gated ion channels when applied to the internal face of the channels but does not substantially inhibit said channels when applied to the external face of the channels, wherein the second compound is capable of entering nociceptors or pruriceptors through the channel-forming receptor when the receptor is activated. The invention also features a quarternary amine derivative or other permanently or transiently charged derivative of a compound that inhibits one or more voltage-gated ion channels when applied to the internal face of the channels but does not substantially inhibit said channels when applied to the external face of the channels. |
| US09603816B2 |
Process
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of S-[2-[1-(2 -ethylbutyl)cyclohexylcarbonylamino]-phenyl] 2-methylthiopropionate which is useful as a pharmaceutically active compound. |
| US09603811B2 |
Pharmaceutical compositions of carotenoid chylomicrons
The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a chylomicron and a carotenoid. The present invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising a micelle and a carotenoid, suspended in an aqueous solution and suitable for intravenous administration. The bioavailability of the carotenoid of the pharmaceutical composition is higher relative to the bioavailability of free carotenoid. |
| US09603809B2 |
Methods of treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Therapeutic compositions and methods for treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include dosage forms that deliver a therapeutic amount of active drug in a delayed and controlled release formulation. The dosage form can be administered at night and drug release is delayed for from 5 to 7 hours or longer, followed by an ascending release rate. When administered at night the composition provides early morning improvement in symptoms of ADHD and sustained improvement over a period of at least 12 hours. |
| US09603804B2 |
Solid pharmaceutical composition
[Problem] To provide a solid pharmaceutical composition which contains a compound represented by general formula (1) or a salt thereof and suppresses decomposition of said compound or salt thereof, and a production method of said solid pharmaceutical composition.[Solution] This solid pharmaceutical composition contains a compound represented by general formula (1) or a salt thereof, a cellulosic excipient, and an acidic substance of pH 4.0 or less. |
| US09603802B2 |
Extrusion
The invention relates to a process for preparing a controlled release pharmaceutical extrudate using a melt extruder, wherein the melt extruder comprises a die-head supporting a die-plate in which orifices are located, and a cutter adjacent to the die-head, and wherein the cutter cuts the extruded mix as it emerges under pressure and still molten or softened from the orifices of the die-plate. |
| US09603801B2 |
Bioerodible silicon-based compositions for delivery of therapeutic agents
The invention comprises a composition comprising a bioerodible porous silicon-based carrier material wherein the carrier material carries at least one large molecule therapeutic agent and at least one amorphous sugar, optionally further comprising a crystallization inhibitor. The composition may be used in vitro or in vivo to deliver the therapeutic agent, preferably in a controlled fashion over an intended period of time such as over multiple days, weeks or months. The composition may be used for treating or preventing conditions of a patient such as chronic diseases. |
| US09603800B2 |
Methods of treating inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and disorders using nanolipogels
Compositions and methods for treating or ameliorating the symptoms of inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder are described herein. The compositions contain a nanolipogel for sustained delivery of an effective amount of one or more active agents of choice, preferably a drug for treating or ameliorating the symptoms of inflammatory or autoimmune disease or disorder. The nanolipogel includes a lipid bilayer surrounding a hydrogel core, which may optionally include a host molecule, for example, an absorbent such as a cyclodextrin or ion-exchange resin. In preferred embodiments at least one of active agents is an immunosuppressant. |
| US09603799B2 |
Liposomal vaccine adjuvants and methods of making and using same
A vaccine adjuvant composition comprising: a lipid selected from the group consisting of: dipalmitoyl phosphatidlcholine (DPPC), dipalmitoyl phosphatidylglycerol (DPPG), dioleoyl phosphatidylcholine (DOPC), and cholesterol and containing a positively or negatively charged lipid with associated/entrapped protein antigen. |
| US09603790B2 |
Cosmetic compositions comprising marine plants
The present invention relates to a cosmetic active ingredient for improving the appearance of the skin beneath the eyes. More particularly, the present invention relates to a cosmetic active ingredient comprising an extract of the marine algae, Fucus vesiculosus. The present invention also relates to topical cosmetic compositions comprising as an active component an extract of the marine algae, Fucus vesiculosus, alone or in combination with additional cosmetic active ingredients, to reduce the appearance of dark circles in skin beneath the eye. |
| US09603785B2 |
Sunscreen/insect repellant compositions and methods of making and using the same
The present invention is directed to combination sunscreen and insect repellant compositions. The combination sunscreen and insect repellant compositions contain (i) diethyl toluamide (or N,N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide or DEET), (ii) one or more sunscreen components, with each sunscreen component being capable of absorbing ultraviolet light rays, and (iii) a polymeric binder system of one or more C10-30 alkyl acrylate polymers or co-polymers, and one or more C12-22 alkyl methacrylate polymers or co-polymers. The combination sunscreen and insect repellant compositions may contain additional composition components such as butyloctyl salicylate, a crosslinked polyacrylate polymer, and deionized water. The present invention is also directed to methods of making and using combination sunscreen and insect repellant compositions. |
| US09603784B2 |
Process for treating sol-gel capsules
The present invention relates to a process for treating sol-gel capsules comprising a cosmetic or pharmaceutical active material with an inorganic material, as well as sol-gel capsules produced by a process according to the present invention and formulations comprising such sol-gel capsules. |
| US09603782B2 |
Anhydrous soft solid composition comprising hydrophobic silica aerogel particles, at least one oil and at least one solid fatty substance
The present invention relates to an anhydrous composition comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium: a) at least hydrophobic silica aerogel particles with a specific surface area per unit of mass (SM) ranging from 500 to 1500 m2/g, preferably from 600 to 1200 m2/g and better still from 600 to 800 m2/g, and a size expressed as the mean volume diameter (D[0.5]) ranging from 1 to 30 μm; b) at least one solid fatty substance; c) at least one oil; the said composition having a hardness measured at 32° C. and at a humidity of 40% ranging from 15 kPa to 150 kPa and preferably ranging from 20 kPa to 100 kPa. The present invention also relates to a cosmetic process for treating and/or caring for human keratin materials, characterized in that it consists in applying to the surface of the keratin material at least one composition as defined previously. The present invention also relates to a cosmetic process for treating human perspiration and/or perspiration-related body odor, which consists in applying to the surface of a human keratin material at least one composition as defined previously comprising at least one deodorant active agent and/or one antiperspirant active agent. |
| US09603775B2 |
Delamination resistant pharmaceutical glass containers containing active pharmaceutical ingredients
The present invention is based, at least in part, on the identification of a pharmaceutical container formed, at least in part, of a glass composition which exhibits a reduced propensity to delaminate, i.e., a reduced propensity to shed glass particulates. As a result, the presently claimed containers are particularly suited for storage of pharmaceutical compositions and, specifically, a pharmaceutical solution comprising a pharmaceutically active ingredient, for example, VELCADE (bortezomib), STELARA (Ustekinumab), SIMPONI (golimumab), siltuximab, and AMG 403 (fulranumab). |
| US09603774B2 |
Evidence-based acupuncture and moxibustion meridian-acupoint treating and detecting instrument supporting multiplexed output and method of use thereof
A multipath-output-supporting evidence-based acupuncture and moxibustion acupoint therapeutic and detecting instrument and a using method thereof. The therapeutic and detecting instrument comprises a CPU core unit, a communication module, an audio module and a plurality of detecting, diagnosis and treatment circuits. The detecting, diagnosis and treatment circuit comprises an acupoint detecting unit and an acupoint acupuncture and moxibustion unit. The acupoint detecting unit comprises a resistance detecting circuit and an A/D digital converting circuit. The acupoint acupuncture and moxibustion unit comprises a D/A pulse current generating circuit and an amplifying circuit. The CPU core unit comprises an ARM processor, a memory, an auxiliary circuit and an evidence-based acupuncture and moxibustion therapeutic system, and the ARM processor is connected with the evidence-based acupuncture and moxibustion therapeutic system. |
| US09603773B2 |
Methods and systems for treating cardiovascular disease using an implantable electroacupuncture device
An exemplary method treating a cardiovascular disease in a patient includes 1) generating, by an electroacupuncture device implanted beneath a skin surface of the patient at an acupoint corresponding to a median nerve of the patient, stimulation sessions at a duty cycle that is less than 0.05, wherein the duty cycle is a ratio of T3 to T4, each stimulation session included in the stimulation sessions has a duration of T3 minutes and occurs at a rate of once every T4 minutes, and the electroacupuncture device comprises a central electrode of a first polarity and an annular electrode of a second polarity and that is spaced apart from the central electrode; and 2) applying, by the electroacupuncture device, the stimulation sessions to the median nerve by way of the central electrode and the annular electrode in accordance with the duty cycle. |
| US09603768B1 |
Foot flexion and extension machine
An ankle flexion and extension machine including a lower leg backing beam having upper and lower ends; a support arm cantilevering from the lower leg backing beam; an arm mounting pivot joint interconnecting the lower leg backing beam's lower end and the support arm's proximal end; a foot plate; a plate mounting pivot joint interconnecting the foot plate and the support arm's distal end, the plate mounting pivot joint being adapted for facilitating dorsiflecting and plantarflecting pivoting movements of the foot plate with respect to the lower leg backing beam; a reversible electric motor connected operatively to the foot plate, the reversible electric motor being adapted for driving the pivoting movement of the foot plate; a floor support base; and a triangulating frame supporting the lower leg backing beam, the support arm and the foot plate over the floor support base. |
| US09603767B1 |
Cremains storage assembly
A cremains storage assembly includes a fishing lure that may be cast into a body of water. The fishing lure may contain cremains. A sleeve is coupled to the fishing lure and the sleeve may fill the fishing lure with the cremains. A cap is removably coupled to the sleeve and the cap may retain the cremains in the fishing lure. |
| US09603763B2 |
Disposable shower bucket and the privacy jacket
These new inventions aim to solve problems that are related to healthcare concerns. Each invention is designed to scope the needs of patients whether they are at home, in a nursing home, or a hospital facility. These products are designed to be hassle-free when removing them on and off the patient. Both of them will provide privacy, safety, and dignity allowing the patients to be respected. The privacy jacket is a two component garment with a medium top pocket on the left side. It also has an opening at the arm and neck with three snaps down the right side. The privacy jacket shields the body and provide warmth while the patient is using it, and it has a secret pocket inside the back panel. The pocket holds the collapsible disposable bucket. The disposable bucket is comprised of a soft, molded texture, with padded sections that absorbs both feces and urine. It has flexible elastic wings that expand into a bucket to fit underneath the shower chair. These devices will help improve the way patients receive healthcare. |
| US09603762B2 |
Wheelchair suspension
A suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame, at least one drive assembly and at least one caster pivot arm. The at least one drive assembly and the at least one caster pivot arm are pivotally connected to the frame at a common pivot axis such that the drive assembly and the front caster pivot arm are pivotable relative to one another. |
| US09603761B2 |
Walking assist apparatus
A walking assist apparatus includes a pair of wheels, at least one first driving unit that drives the pair of wheels, a main body that rotatably supports the pair of wheels, and a grip that is disposed at one end of the main body to be able to be gripped. The walking assist apparatus includes a sensor unit configured to detect an angular change in an inclination angle of the main body in a pitch direction, and a first control unit configured and programmed to control an operation of the at least one first driving unit based on an output of the sensor unit such that the angular change of the main body is zero. |
| US09603760B2 |
Lift apparatus for a vehicle
A lift apparatus (100) for a vehicle comprises a lifting platform (115) and a movable connection assembly (110) for deploying and operating the lifting platform (115). The movable connection assembly (110) comprises at least two pairs of hydraulically driven lifting arms (145, 146) on either side of the lifting platform (115) and pivotally connected at a first end to a base (140) and at a second end to the lifting platform (115), at least two hydraulic actuators being disposed in connection with each pair of arms (145, 146) acting in substantially the same direction as each other. The hydraulic actuators are powered by a common source. The lift can be used to allow wheelchair bound passengers to board the vehicle or for lifting heavy articles onto the vehicle. |
| US09603753B2 |
Fluid absorbent surgical device for cannulas
A surgical device that absorbs fluid material on a surface of a cannula comprises a handle, and an absorbent portion coupled to a first end of the handle. The absorbent portion comprises a plurality of absorbent discs separated by at least one spacer. The plurality of absorbent discs and the at least one spacer are disposed about a post, and the at least one spacer is restrained from axial movement relative to the post. |
| US09603750B2 |
Method and apparatus for producing composite structure
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for forming a composite structure, preferably for use in an absorbent structure used within the personal hygiene industry, such as for instance feminine hygiene garments, baby diapers and pants and adult incontinence garments. The present invention preferably provides a method and apparatus for depositing and positioning particulate materials in a desired pattern onto a moving carrier layer. The method allows accurate forming of a pattern of particulate material clusters at high production speed having improved attachment properties, with reduced raw material usage and relative low cost. The present invention foresees in the need for improved thin, flexible, lightweight absorbent structure having optimal absorption, distribution and retention. |
| US09603746B2 |
Sound attenuation
A sound attenuation system can include a first end that can include a shaft and a flange, the flange can be coupled to the shaft, and a second end that can include a filter stem and a cap. The filter stem can have a hole. The cap can have a first position in which the cap occludes the hole and can have a second position in which the cap is clear of the hole. |
| US09603738B2 |
Implants with controlled drug delivery features and methods of using same
Disclosed herein are drug delivery devices and methods for the treatment of ocular disorders requiring targeted and controlled administration of a drug to an interior portion of the eye for reduction or prevention of symptoms of the disorder. The devices are capable of controlled release of one or more, drugs and may also Include structures which allow for treatment of Increased intraocular pressure by permitting aqueous humor to flow out of the anterior chamber of the eye through the device. |
| US09603737B2 |
Portable urinal systems and methods of collecting urine
A portable urinal system including a handheld urinal and a reservoir. The handheld urinal has a neck assembly, with a user operated neck valve assembly permitting urine to flow through the neck assembly, and a urinal cup coupled to the neck assembly so that upon use of the urinal and operation of the neck valve assembly by the user, urine flows through the neck assembly into the urinal cup. The reservoir has a larger volume than the urinal cup and includes a lid assembly with a substantially rigid spout assembly and a reservoir cup. Urine is transferred from the urinal to the reservoir when the user couples the urinal cup to the spout assembly and opens the spout assembly such that urine collected in the urinal cup drains into the reservoir cup. |
| US09603734B2 |
Introducer for an iliac side branch device
An introduction arrangement for a fenestrated or branched stent graft (13) intended for deployment into the lumen of a vessel having a blind vessel extending from it. The introducer (1) has a distal end intended to remain outside a patient in use and a proximal end with a nose cone dilator (11) and an arrangement to retain the branched stent graft distally of the nose cone dilator. A sheath (15) on the introducer extends over the branched stent graft to the nose cone dilator. An indwelling catheter (22) extends from the distal end of the introducer and enters the fenestration or side arm and through to the nose cone dilator, the indwelling catheter has a guide wire (29) extending through it. The guide wire can be extended beyond the nose cone dilator in use before the sheath is withdrawn from the branched stent graft so that it can be snared from the contra-lateral artery. |
| US09603731B2 |
Helical hybrid stent
An expandable helical stent is provided, wherein the stent may be formed of an amorphous metal alloy or other non-amorphous metal with a securement. The stent is formed from flat or tubular metal in a helical coiled structure which has an undulating pattern. The main stent component may be formed of a single helically coiled component. Alternatively, a plurality of helically coiled ribbons may be used to form a stent heterogeneous in design, material, or other characteristic particular to that stent. The helical tubular structure may be secured with a securement, such as a weld, interlock or a polymer, to maintain the helical coils in a tubular configuration. The helical coils of the main stent component may be spaced apart or nestled to each other. The nestling of the undulation of adjacent helical coils contributes to maintaining the tubular shape of the helically coiled stent. In addition, the nestling of helical coils may prevent the polymer layer from sagging at any point between cycles of the helical coils. |
| US09603730B2 |
Endoluminal device and method
An endoluminal device can be configured for precise positioning during deployment within a vessel. The endoluminal device can be a tack, stent, vascular implant or other type of implant. The endoluminal device can have circumferential member with an undulating configuration having multiple inward and outward apexes and struts extending therebetween. Two of the struts can be used to establish a foot for the precise positioning of the device during deployment. A method of placing the endoluminal device can include withdrawing an outer sheath such that a portion of the endoluminal device is expanded prior to the rest of the endoluminal device. |
| US09603727B2 |
Intravascular stent
An expandable stent for implantation in a body lumen, such as an artery, is disclosed. The stent consists of a plurality of radially expandable cylindrical rings generally aligned on a common longitudinal stent axis and interconnected by one or more interconnecting links placed so that the stent is flexible in the longitudinal direction. The link pattern is optimized to reduce strain on the links and enhance longitudinal flexibility and security of the stent. The stent includes a distal end ring and a proximal end ring that have a length that is shorter than the length of the body rings. |
| US09603714B2 |
Spacer and expanding device
An expanding device for expanding the spacing between bones is provided. The expanding device includes a spacer configured to be expandable and disposed between the bones, a catheter provided with the spacer at a distal end thereof and adapted to introduce a filler into the spacer, and a sheath having a lumen through which the catheter is inserted and in which the spacer before expansion can be housed. The spacer includes a spacer body configured to be expandable, an introduction section through which a filler is introduced into a rear-end-side expansion section of the spacer body, and a bypass passage through which part of the filler in the introduction section is introduced into a distal-end-side expansion section of the spacer body. |
| US09603713B2 |
Bi-directional fixating/locking transvertebral body screw/intervertebral cage stand-alone constructs and posterior cervical and lumbar interarticulating joint stapling guns and devices for spinal fusion
A bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screw/cage apparatus, a posterior lumbar facet staple and a staple gun for a posterior lumbar facet staple, a posterior cervical facet joint staple, and a staple gun for a posterior cervical facet joint staple are provided. The BDFT apparatus includes an intervertebral cage including a plurality of internal angled screw guides, a plurality of screw members, and a screw locking mechanism that prevents the screw members from pulling out of the internal angled screw guides. The internal angled screw guides orient a first screw member superiorly and a second screw member inferiorly. The intervertebral cage is adapted for posterior lumbar intervertebral placement, anterior lumbar intervertebral placement, anterio-lateral thoracic intervertebral placement, or anterior cervical intervertebral placement. |
| US09603707B2 |
Dipping mandrel with a gap
A mandrel (5) for molding polymer valve leaflets for heart valve prostheses is disclosed, including a body portion (52) including an outer surface with ridges (60) and contoured surfaces (64) corresponding to the leaflets, the upper edge of the contoured surfaces corresponding to the free upper edge of the leaflets, and the mandrel including a mandrel extension (54) above the body portion, and a gap (68) extending around the mandrel between the upper edge of the contoured surface and the mandrel extension. A process for producing these polymer valve leaflets is also disclosed by dip coating with this mandrel and removing the polymer film created at the gap, preferably by applying suction or blowing thereto. |
| US09603705B2 |
Two-stage collapsible/expandable prosthetic heart valves and anchoring systems
Prosthetic heart valve apparatus is adapted for delivery into a patient in a circumferentially collapsed condition, followed by circumferential re-expansion at the implant site in the patient. The apparatus includes an annular anchoring structure that can be implanted in the patient first. The apparatus further includes an annular valve support structure, which supports a flexible leaflet structure of the valve. The support and leaflet structures are initially separate from the anchoring structure, but they can be implanted in the patient by interengagement of the support structure with the already-implanted anchoring structure. |
| US09603704B2 |
In situ adjustable optical mask
Implantable corneal and intraocular implants such as a mask are provided. The mask can improve the vision of a patient, such as by being configured to increase the depth of focus of an eye of a patient. The mask can include an aperture configured to transmit along an optical axis substantially all visible incident light. The mask can further include a transition portion that surrounds at least a portion of the aperture. This portion can be configured to switch from one level of opacity to another level of opacity through the use of a controllably variable absorbance feature such as a switchable photochromic chromophore within a polymer matrix. |
| US09603703B2 |
Intraocular lens and methods for providing accommodative vision
An accommodating intraocular lens for providing a range of accommodative vision contains an optic and a haptic. The optic is disposed about an optical axis and includes an anterior surface and a posterior surface defining a clear aperture of the optic. The haptic is at least partially disposed inside the optic and includes an inner structure, an outer structure, and a plurality of arms disposed between and connecting the inner structure and the outer structure. The inner structure is circumferentially disposed about the optical axis, while the outer structure is circumferentially disposed about the inner structure and has an outer face. Each arm has proximal portion adjacent the inner structure and a distal portion adjacent the outer structure that is bifurcated in a radial direction from the proximal portion. The intraocular lens also has an outer surface defined by outer surfaces of the plurality of arms and an outer surface of the outer structure. The inner structure and at least a portion of the arms are disposed inside the clear aperture. The distal portion of each arm has a larger axial extent than an axial extent of the inner portion. The distal portion of each arm has a larger axial extent along the outer surface than an axial extent of the outer structure along the outer surface. |
| US09603701B2 |
Flexible artificial lens accommodated by means of pressure or electrical condictivity
An artificial lens for an eye (10) is described. According to the present invention, an artificial lens for an eye is now provided, in which the focal width can change. This is realized according to the invention by providing the artificial lens with two or more media (12, 13) that are flexible in shape as lens elements and that the two media that are flexible in shape stand in direct contact with one another. The media that are flexible in shape are preferably disposed in an uptake container forming a lens body (11). |
| US09603693B2 |
Dual net vascular filtration devices and related systems and methods
According to one aspect of the disclosure, a dual net vascular filtration device comprises a central frame, a proximal filter net attached to a proximal end of the central frame, and a distal filter net attached to a distal end of the central frame. Upon deployment, the distal filter net can be configured to evert into the proximal filter net. |
| US09603691B2 |
System and method for estrus detection using real-time location
A method for estrus detection includes storing location information associated with a dairy livestock. This information includes coordinate locations of the dairy livestock within a free stall pen at each of a plurality of times during a time period including a first time and a second time. The coordinate locations comprise at least a first (X, Y, Z) location of the dairy livestock at the first time and a second (X, Y, Z) location of the dairy livestock at the second time. The method further includes determining, based on at least the first and second (X, Y, Z) locations, a turn index parameter indicating a number of times the dairy livestock reverses directions during the time period. The method further includes determining whether the dairy livestock is likely to be in estrus based at least in part upon whether the determined turn index parameter is in excess of a baseline turn index parameter by more than a first predefined amount. |
| US09603685B2 |
Method of manufacturing an interdental cleaner
An elongated core comprising a nylon or polypropylene is extruded. An interdental cleaner portion, comprising fingers, is injection molded about a first portion of the core. The interdental cleaner portion has thermoplastic elastomer. A handle portion is injection molded about a second portion of the core. The handle portion has polypropylene. |
| US09603681B2 |
Systems and methods for attachment of dental prostheses
Dental implant systems for releasable attachment of dental prostheses are shown and described. Each of the dental implant systems includes an implant body, a prosthesis body, and an abutment body with a locking device. The locking device includes a magnetically attractable member having a first end coupled to a spring and a second end. The magnetically attractable member is moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The dental implant system further includes a void configured to receive the second end, the magnetically attractable member being at least partially disposed within the void in the locked position, the magnetically attractable member being free of the void in the unlocked position. |
| US09603678B2 |
System of compensatory slanted copings, converters and extenders and abutments of universal coupling over osseointegrated implants
The present invention refers to a system of prosthetic components consisting of Compensatory Slanted Copings and Abutments of Universal Coupling that function as a set of coupled parts that allow corrections of slants that vary between OQ and 60Q, of fixing osseointeg rated implants, including zygomatic fixations, and it provides a cap, molding transferer and screws for fastening and locking. This system of copings and abutments provides properties of conversion and extension of the implants. Its shape provides better occlusal stability and favorable biomechanics, since the forces are better distributed, diminishing the concentration of tension on the fitting platform of the implant, as well as the screws. The abutments of the universal coupling can be readjusted and be cemented or screwed. In the present system, the superior platform of the coping and the inferior base of the abutment are universalized, since the inferior platform of the coping corrects the slant of the implant. It has screws for fastening and for locking of the coping/abutment set. The characteristics of this system provide great versatility, which allows it to be used in various areas of medicine. |
| US09603677B2 |
Pre-fabricated ligature with variable friction
A pre-fabricated ligature with variable friction includes a ligature made of nitinol (1) with a rectangular outline similar to an “O” format, which has free ends (2) that can be deflected to meet the need for affixing of the arch wire (3) to the bracket (5), resulting in variable friction force. |
| US09603676B1 |
Instrument with laser proximity sensor
A hand held instrument and method in which a working element is to be placed by an operator into contact with a workpiece employ a laser proximity sensor arrangement adapted to sense proximity of the working element to the workpiece. A controller is responsive to the proximity sensor arrangement for activating a power source to actuate the working element in response to the working element reaching a predetermined proximity to the workpiece, as the working element is moved by the operator toward placement into contact with the workpiece. The predetermined proximity is such that the working element will reach a fully-operating condition prior to contact with the workpiece, whereby the working element will be at the fully-operating condition upon contact with the workpiece. |
| US09603674B2 |
Method to protect the esophagus and other mediastinal structures during cardiac and thoracic interventions
Devices and methods are disclosed for preventing injury to a target tissue in proximity to the heart. The methods may include the use a device to externally manipulate the heart to move a portion of the heart away from the target tissue. The methods may also include applying therapy to the heart with the device. |
| US09603671B2 |
Systems, methods and devices for anatomical registration and surgical localization
Systems, methods and devices are disclosed for use in electronic guidance systems for surgical navigation to determine the relationship between the three-dimensional coordinates of an anatomy of a patient and those of an electronic guidance system. These coordinates are required to assist in the determination of the angles with respect to which components, such as, an acetabular prosthesis, are inserted into a body of the patient. In one such example, during hip replacement surgery, a surgeon receives guidance of how to place an acetabular prosthesis in the body of the patient, specifically in the pelvis. |
| US09603669B2 |
Pressure sensing for a multi-arm catheter
A method for operating a medical probe includes pressing a distal end of the medical probe, which includes one or more arms that extend diagonally outward from a central shaft and have respective position transducers coupled thereto, against an intra-body surface, so as to cause the arms to exert pressure on the surface and bend with respect to the central shaft in response to the pressure. Positions of the respective position transducers coupled to the arms are measured, and the pressure exerted by the arms is estimated responsively to the measured positions. |
| US09603668B2 |
Dynamic 3D lung map view for tool navigation inside the lung
A method for implementing a dynamic three-dimensional lung map view for navigating a probe inside a patient's lungs includes loading a navigation plan into a navigation system, the navigation plan including a planned pathway shown in a 3D model generated from a plurality of CT images, inserting the probe into a patient's airways, registering a sensed location of the probe with the planned pathway, selecting a target in the navigation plan, presenting a view of the 3D model showing the planned pathway and indicating the sensed location of the probe, navigating the probe through the airways of the patient's lungs toward the target, iteratively adjusting the presented view of the 3D model showing the planned pathway based on the sensed location of the probe, and updating the presented view by removing at least a part of an object forming part of the 3D model. |
| US09603667B2 |
Master-slave robotic surgical system and method
A system comprising a platform assembly comprising a master platform and a slave platform, both the master platform and the slave platform being moveable, the platform assembly further comprising a force feedback control arrangement for applying a force to the master platform in response to a force exerted on a slave device mounted on the platform. |
| US09603666B2 |
Controller definition of a robotic remote center of motion
A robotic surgical system employs a surgical instrument (20), a robot (40) for navigating the surgical instrument (20) relative to an anatomical region (10) within a coordinate system (42) of the robot (40), and a robot controller (43) for defining a remote center of motion for a spherical rotation of the surgical instrument (20) within the coordinate system (42) of the robot (40) based on a physical location within the coordinate system (42) of the robot (40) of a port (12) into the anatomical region (10). The definition of the remote center of rotation is used by the robot controller (43) to command the robot (40) to align the remote center of motion of the surgical instrument (20) with the port (12) into the anatomical region (10) for spherically rotating the surgical instrument (20) relative to the port (12) into the anatomical region (10). |
| US09603665B2 |
Systems and methods for establishing virtual constraint boundaries
Systems and methods for establishing and tracking virtual boundaries. The virtual boundaries can delineate zones in which an instrument is not permitted during a surgical procedure. The virtual boundaries can also delineate zones in which the surgical instrument is permitted during the surgical procedure. The virtual boundaries can also identify objects or structures to be treated by the instrument or to be avoided by the instrument during the surgical procedure. |
| US09603664B2 |
Ablation catheter system
In order to sufficiently cauterize a target site existing in a deep portion of a cardiac muscle tissue even in the case where the fat layer attached to an epicardium is thick or where the cardiac muscle is thickened due to cardiac hypertrophy and the like, provided is an ablation catheter comprising: an elongated catheter main body; an electrode for ablation placed in a leading end part of the catheter main body; and an optical fiber that is placed along a longitudinal direction of the catheter main body, includes an emission end formed on a leading end surface of the catheter main body, and emits a laser beam guided therethrough from the emission end. |
| US09603663B2 |
System and method for chemically cooling an ablation antenna
A method of performing an ablation procedure includes inserting an antenna assembly into tissue and supplying energy thereto for application to tissue. The method also includes causing contact between a first material and at least one other material disposed within the antenna assembly to thermally regulate the antenna assembly. According to another embodiment, an ablation system includes an energy delivery assembly. A first chamber is defined within the energy delivery assembly and is configured to hold a first chemical. Another chamber is defined within the energy delivery assembly and is configured to hold at least one other chemical. The first chamber and the other chamber are configured to selectively and fluidly communicate with each other to cause contact between the first chemical and the at least one other chemical to cause an endothermic reaction and/or an exothermic reaction. |
| US09603662B2 |
Electrosurgical devices with balun structure for air exposure of antenna radiating section and method of directing energy to tissue using same
An energy applicator for directing energy to tissue includes a feedline having an inner conductor, an outer conductor and a dielectric material disposed therebetween, and an antenna assembly having a radiating section operably coupled to the feedline. The energy applicator also includes a first balun structure configured to substantially confine energy to the radiating section when the energy applicator is energized and disposed in tissue, and a second balun structure configured to substantially prevent energy emitted from the radiating section from propagating proximal to the second balun structure along the feedline when the energy applicator is energized but not disposed in tissue. |
| US09603660B2 |
Magnetically coupling devices for mapping and/or ablating
Systems for ablating tissue can include a pair of electrode assemblies. The electrode assemblies can automatically align on opposing sides of operative tissue due to magnetic interaction. One assembly can move automatically in response to the other assembly due to the magnetic interaction. Some systems are capable of cooling the electrode assemblies during ablation procedures. |
| US09603659B2 |
Ablation device with ionically conductive balloon
Devices, systems, and methods for performing ablation therapy on body tissue are disclosed. An example ablation device for treating body tissue includes an ionically conductive balloon and a radio-frequency electrode that delivers RF energy into a distal section of the balloon. The balloon can have a composite structure with a non-conductive section and a conductive section. A method for fabricating a semi-permeable ablation balloon using ionizing radiation and an etching process is also disclosed. |
| US09603657B2 |
Vacuum coagulation probe for atrial fibrillation treatment
An embodiment of the invention includes a surgical device for coagulating soil tissue such as atrial tissue in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and atrial tachycardia. The surgical device can include at least one elongate member comprising conductive elements adapted to coagulate soft tissue when radiofrequency or direct current energy is transmitted to the conductive elements. Openings through said conductive elements are routed through lumens in the elongate member to a vacuum source to actively engage the soft tissue surface intended to coagulate into intimate contact with the conductive elements to facilitate the coagulation process and ensure the lesions created are consistent, contiguous, and transmural. The embodiments of the invention can also incorporate cooling openings positioned near the conductive elements and coupled with a vacuum source or an injection source to transport fluid though the cooling openings causing the soft tissue surface to cool thus pushing the maximum temperature deeper into tissue. The embodiments of the invention can also incorporate features to tunnel between anatomic structures or dissect around the desired tissue surface to coagulate thereby enabling less invasive positioning of the soft tissue coagulating device and ensuring reliable and consistent heating of the soft tissue. |
| US09603656B1 |
Arthroscopic devices and methods
A medical device includes an elongated sleeve having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end and a distal end. A cutting member having a plurality of sharp edges is formed from a wear-resistant ceramic material is carried at the distal end of the elongated sleeve. A motor drive is coupled to the proximal end of the elongated sleeve to rotate the sleeve at cutting member at high RPMs to cut bone and other hard tissue. An electrode is carried in a distal portion of ceramic cutting member for RF ablation of tissue when the sleeve and cutting member are is a stationary position. In methods of use, (i) the ceramic member can be engaged against bone and then rotated at high speed to cut bone tissue, and (ii) the ceramic member can be held in a stationary (non-rotating) position to engage tissue and RF energy can be delivered to the electrode to create a plasma that ablates tissue. |
| US09603655B2 |
Electrosurgical instrument
An electrosurgical instrument includes a proximal end and a distal end having a jaw member assembly at the distal end including a first jaw member and a second jaw member movable relative thereto. The jaw members can be transferred relative to each other from an opening position into a gripping position in which they are arranged to be closer to each other than in the opening position. Each jaw member has at least one electrode connectable to an electric power source and electrodes of both jaw members being adapted to interact for sealing body tissue held between the jaw members in the gripping position, actuating means for transferring the jaw members from the opening position into the gripping position and means for limiting the closing width of the jaw members, when they are transferred from the opening position into the gripping position. |
| US09603651B2 |
Methods for simultaneous cardiac substrate mapping using spatial correlation maps between neighboring unipolar electrograms
A base cardiac electrogram signal at a base electrode is recorded for a predetermined amount of time. A plurality of cardiac electrogram signals at a plurality of electrodes other than the base electrode are recorded for the predetermined amount of time. The base cardiac electrogram signal is compared with each of the plurality of cardiac electrogram signals. The similarities between the base cardiac electrogram signal and each of the plurality of cardiac electrogram signals is determined. A specific area of cardiac tissue where the base electrode is positioned is mapped based at least in part on the determined similarities. |
| US09603644B2 |
Methods and devices for delivery of medicine to bone
A bone screw includes a shaft, a cannulated portion formed in the shaft, and a fenestration in the shaft connecting the cannulated portion to an exterior of the bone screw. A wall between the cannulated portion and the exterior of the bone screw includes a first wall portion having a different thickness than a second wall portion. |
| US09603641B2 |
Device for osteosynthesis
A device for osteosynthesis includes a body having a proximal surface, a distal surface configured and dimensioned to face a target portion of bone over which the body is to be mounted and a through opening extending through the body from the proximal surface to the distal surface along a central axis. The through hole includes a first protrusion extending from an inner surface thereof toward the central axis. The first protrusion is biased toward an unstressed state in which the first protrusion extends into the through opening to a first distance from the central axis. The first protrusion is movable toward the inner surface when subjected to a force directed outward from the central axis. |
| US09603638B2 |
Spinal stabilization system
A spinal stabilization system and method are provided for treating a patient's spinal column, for maintaining preselected spacing and movement between adjacent vertebrae in a spinal column, and for providing overall stability thereto. The system includes interlaminar members positioned in the spaces intermediate a first vertebra and the vertebrae positioned immediately above and immediately below and adjacent to the first vertebra. The interlaminar members are operatively connected to one another by an adjustable support structure and cooperate therewith to maintain the preselected spacing between adjacent vertebrae and to provide overall stability to the spinal column. |
| US09603635B2 |
Orthopedic fixation devices and methods of installation thereof
The present invention is generally directed to orthopedic fixation devices that comprise a coupling element and a bone fastener, whereby the bone fastener can be loaded into the coupling element through the bottom of a bore in the coupling element. The orthopedic fixation devices described herein can include modular locking clamp assemblies that can be fixed onto fasteners that are already implanted in bone. The modular locking clamp assemblies can include polyaxial locking clamp assemblies, as well as monoaxial locking clamp assemblies. |
| US09603630B2 |
Rotatable base multi-axial screw assembly
A multi-axial screw assembly comprises a receiver member, a base member, a crown and a bone anchoring member. The receiver member has an aperture configured to receive the base member and an internal groove. The base has a deflectable ring configured to mate with the internal groove of the receiver member and a slot configured to allow the deflectable ring to compress to a diameter less than the diameter of the aperture such that the base member may be compressed and axially received within the receiver member. The base member is axially restrained within the base member relative to the receiver member while allowed to rotate relative to the receiver member. The crown is received within the receiver member along the central axis of the receiver member. The crown maintains the diameter of the deflectable ring greater than the diameter of the aperture. |
| US09603628B2 |
Systems and methods for spinal rod insertion and reduction
A guide assembly includes a spinal screw assembly having a bone screw and a spinal rod holder; and a spinal rod guide having first and second elongated arc portions defining a pair of longitudinal slots extending along the first and second arc portions, each of the first and second arc portions further defining at least one recess extending transversely from each of the longitudinal slots, the at least one recess configured to receive at least a portion of a reduction tool to enable reduction of a spinal rod received within the spinal rod holder. |
| US09603627B2 |
Polyaxial pedicle screw having provisional fastening means
A polyaxial pedicle screw includes a screwed shaft section for anchoring the pedicle screw in a vertebra, on one axial end of which a shaft head is configured which is coupled in a rotating and/or pivoting manner as well as in a tensile-force transmitting manner to a receiving sleeve for a longitudinal support. The receiving sleeve has a fastening means for selective positional fastening of the receiving sleeve with respect to the shaft section, the fastening means at least consisting of an inlay/pin mounted in the receiving sleeve and acting on the shaft head, and a locking element acting on the inlay/pin. The inlay/pin is configured with attachment points or engagement elements, which are not covered or overlapped by the locking element, for the provisional introduction of a compressive force on the inlay/pin parallel to the locking element. |
| US09603621B2 |
Low-resistance general sealing apparatus for trocar, and trocar
Disclosed are a low-resistance general sealing apparatus for a trocar and a trocar. A sealing ring (3) is compressed between an upper guiding mechanism (1) and a lower guiding mechanism (2). A smooth transition between the upper guiding mechanism (1) and the lower guiding mechanism (2) minimizes the contact area between the sealing ring (3) and a surgical instrument, which not only provides a guiding function when different forms of surgical instrument are inserted or removed, but also maximally transforms a “soft-hard” friction area between the sealing ring (3) and the surgical instrument into a “hard-hard” friction area between the plastics of upper and lower guiding mechanisms and an outer metal sheath of the surgical instrument, thereby greatly reducing the motion resistance, and meanwhile, having an excellent sealing effect. The sealing apparatus and the trocar are also applicable to instruments with diameters between 5 mm and 12 mm. |
| US09603614B2 |
Medical gripping device
The present invention relates to an endoscope cap with a holding and withdrawal device for a tissue clip (4) that can be placed onto a spreading sleeve (3) of the endoscope cap (1). The endoscope cap comprises an end groove (7) that opens at the front edge of the spreading sleeve (3) and that slits open the cap wall on both sides, and a withdrawal thread or web (11) that radially traverses the end groove (7) in a forward axial cap section and that is introduced or can be introduced slideably into an endoscope channel for actuation thereof at a radial inside of the endoscope cap (1). |
| US09603612B2 |
Soft tissue reconstruction
Methods and instruments for reconstructing soft tissues of a skeletal joint such as for example of the foot or hand are presented. |
| US09603608B2 |
Method for forming non-circular cartilage grafts
A technique for knee replacement surgery that allow for the removal of an oval oblong-shaped allograft bone and cartilage plug from a donor distal femur. The technique uses instruments including (i) sizing guides to match the recipient's femoral size and curvature to that of a donor femur (the sizing guides also acting as a wide pin placement template for the donor distal femur); (ii) osteotomes that cut the curved and straight portions of the implant shape (these may be disposable or reusable); and (iii) templates that fit over the guide pins and have openings to allow the osteotomes to cut the donor femur plug to the correct size, shape and depth. The instruments allow for a non-circular shape to be extracted from a donor femur for use in a bone-saving osteoarthritis distal femur resurfacing procedure. |
| US09603606B2 |
Dental instrument
The present invention refers to an instrument, configured as a dental instrument or surgical instrument, the instrument comprising a shaft and a substantially rotation-symmetrical head which is attached to the shaft and provided with a plurality of cutting blades, the cutting blades being arranged distributed around the whole circumference of the head, in relation to a centric rotational axis of the instrument, characterized in that each cutting blade has a geometry differing from the other cutting blades. |
| US09603603B2 |
Deflectable finger connection feature on surgical saw blade
A surgical cutting blade for cutting bone material when the blade is coupled to a hand-held surgical saw includes a distal portion comprising a plurality of cutting teeth, a shank portion adjacent the distal portion, and a proximal portion adjacent the shank portion. The proximal portion may include a longitudinally extending slot having a proximal opening. The slot may be shaped to receive a portion of the surgical saw through the proximal opening. The proximal portion may have a plurality of deflectable fingers respectively separated from a plurality of main body portions by respective gaps. The plurality of deflectable fingers may extend adjacent the longitudinally extending slot, and may deflect into the gaps to increase and decrease a width of a portion of the slot. |
| US09603597B2 |
Surgical fastener
Various embodiments of a non-deforming surgical fastener are discussed. In one embodiment, the fastener includes two legs and a backspan extending between the two legs. The fastener also includes a backspan thickness that is adapted to reduce the pressure and/or increase the holding strength applied to underlying materials. The non-deforming fastener is constructed and arranged to retain substantially the same shape before, during and after deployment into the target implantation site. |
| US09603595B2 |
Surgical instrument comprising an adjustable system configured to accommodate different jaw heights
A surgical instrument can comprise a first jaw, a second jaw, and a firing system configured to be advanced relative to the first jaw and the second jaw. The firing system can comprise a firing member including a first portion configured to engage the first jaw and a second portion configured to engage the second jaw in order to position the first jaw and the second jaw relative to one another. |
| US09603594B2 |
Ratcheting mechanism for surgical stapling device
A surgical stapling device comprising a housing, an elongated portion, an end effector, and a movable handle disposed in mechanical cooperation with the housing and movable between a first open position and a second approximated position for affecting a function of the end effector. A ratchet mechanism is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the movable handle and is configured to substantially prevent the movable handle from moving towards its first open position until the movable handle reaches a predetermined position. |
| US09603592B2 |
Laparoscopic suture device with autoloading and suture capture
A suturing device provided. The suturing device may include at least a firing aperture, a drive mechanism and an autoloading mechanism. The firing aperture may include at least one needle rotatably disposed therein configured to engage a suture for deployment. The drive mechanism may be operatively coupled to the needle and configured to advance the needle from a retracted position to an extended position during engagement, and retract the needle from the extended position to the retracted position during disengagement. The autoloading mechanism may be operatively coupled to the drive mechanism and configured to slidably retrieve and position a suture to be deployed over the firing aperture during disengagement of the drive mechanism. |
| US09603590B2 |
Single-arm stabilizer having suction capability
A single-arm stabilizer having suction capability includes a single, small leg through which suction can be applied. The leg has an upper surface and a lower surface that are spaced apart to define a chamber. The lower surface includes a plurality of openings that are disposed adjacent each other. A support arm is connected to the leg in order to position the leg as desired. A suction line is in fluid communication with the chamber in order to create a vacuum within the chamber. The stabilizer can be used to stabilize any desired portion of a patient's body, but is particularly effective at stabilizing the septum of a patient's heart. Such stabilization can be accomplished by inserting the leg into the patient's heart through the aorta. |
| US09603583B2 |
Method, apparatus, and system for analyzing elastography of tissue using one-dimensional ultrasound probe
A method of analyzing elastography of tissue using a one-dimensional (1D) ultrasound probe. The method includes: acquiring two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound images with respect to a region of interest (ROI) of an object to be diagnosed, to which a shear wave is induced, using the 1D ultrasound probe; measuring a displacement of the shear wave from the acquired 2D ultrasound images; estimating a change rate in the displacement of the shear wave along a y-axis direction orthogonal to a 2D plane on which the 2D ultrasound images are shown, using the measured displacement; and analyzing elastography information of tissue in the ROI using the measured displacement and the estimated displacement change rate. |
| US09603581B2 |
Ultrasonic transducer and method of manufacturing the same
An ultrasonic transducer includes: a first electrode layer disposed on an upper substrate and a support; a second electrode layer which is disposed on a lower surface of the upper substrate and is separated from the first electrode layer; an upper electrode disposed on an upper surface of a membrane to contact an upper surface of the first electrode layer; a trench formed through the upper electrode, the membrane, the support, and the upper substrate; and a pad substrate disposed under the upper substrate and including bonding pads that electrically connect to the first and second electrode layers, respectively. |
| US09603580B2 |
High frequency ultrasound probe
A high frequency ultrasound probe includes a substrate having a number of transducer elements on it and a ground plane that is electrically coupled by one or more vias to a conductive frame that supports the substrate. The conductive frame is electrically coupled to a ground plane of a printed circuit having conductors that are coupled to the transducer elements. |
| US09603577B2 |
X-ray imaging apparatus and control method thereof
An X-ray imaging apparatus and control method for the X-ray imaging apparatus are provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray source to generate X-ray beams, and to irradiate the X-ray beams onto an object; a first X-ray detector configured to detect X-ray beams transmitted through the object and generate a first phase contrast signal; an X-ray obtainer including an X-ray collimator and a second X-ray detector, wherein the X-ray collimator is spaced apart from the object by a predetermined distance, and configured to focus the X-ray beams transmitted through the object, and wherein the second X-ray detector is configured to detect the focused X-ray beams and generate a second phase contrast signal based on the detected X-ray beams; and an image processor configured to create a phase contrast image and an absorption image of the object. |
| US09603575B2 |
X-ray imaging apparatus and method of operating the same
An X-ray imaging apparatus and a method of operating the X-ray imaging method are provided. The X-ray imaging apparatus includes a first panel configured to contact an object; an X-ray generator configured to maintain a uniform distance with the first panel and configured to generate an X-ray; a second panel facing the first panel and configured to contact the object; and an X-ray detector configured to detect the X-ray transmitted to the object. |
| US09603574B2 |
Reconfigurable electronic substrate
The present disclosure relates to the fabrication of electrical components and, in particular to the use of a reconfigurable substrate to which a flexible circuit may be affixed. In certain embodiments, the reconfigurable substrate may be moved between different configurations, certain of which are suitable for fabrication and certain of which are suitable for operation. |
| US09603571B2 |
Wearable electrocardiogram measurement device and method for compressing an electrocardiogram
A wearable electrocardiogram measurement device and a method for compressing an electrocardiogram are disclosed. A heart detection unit detects a heart activity status of a human body to obtain electrocardiogram data. A processor of a portable host proceeds with bandwidth decomposition and quantization by using quantization scales to obtain quantized results. An integer part of each quantized result is set as a quantized datum. A decimal portion of each quantized result is set as a truncated error datum. Each quantization scale is multiplied by a corresponding truncated error datum to obtain a product. If a distortion value obtained by adding the products fulfills a distortion default value range, the quantized data are encoded to obtain compressed electrocardiogram data for storage in a data storage unit of the host. If the distortion value does not fulfill the distortion default value range, an adjustment step is repeated. |
| US09603568B2 |
Apparatus and methods for corrective guidance of eating behavior after weight loss surgery
Apparatuses and methods for corrective guidance of eating behavior of a patient equipped with a gastric restriction device. The apparatus provides continuous monitoring or one or more parameters related to food passing through the gastric restriction device. Each monitored parameter is processed to provide a visual indication of the current eating behavior. The visual indication is used as input to the patient or a caregiver to modify the eating behavior. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes an emergency relief mechanism that automatically relieves excess pressure developing in the gastric restriction device. In some embodiments, the apparatus is enabled to deliver an appetite suppressant to modify the eating behavior. |
| US09603566B2 |
Sleep awaking system and method
Provided are a sleep awaking system and a sleep awaking method. The system comprises: a sign parameter collecting module for collecting a sign parameter of a human body; a time determining module for determining whether the present time is a REM determining time; a REM determining module for obtaining the sign parameter and determining whether the human body is in a REM stage according to the sign parameter in a REM determining period when the time determining module determines that the present time is the REM determining time; an awaking module for awaking the human body after a pre-awaking period when the REM determining module determines that the human body is in the REM stage and causing the human body to enter the REM stage within the pre-awaking period and awaking the human body after the pre-awaking period when the REM determining module determines that the human body is not in the REM stage, wherein the REM determining period and the pre-awaking period pass in turn from the REM determining time to the awaking time. The above system and method realize awaking the human body in the REM stage, making the human body feel a clear mind, act agilely, and full of spirit and energy after being awaked, which is good for health of the human body. |
| US09603564B2 |
Methods and systems for assessing psychological characteristics
A method for assessing an emotional response from a test subject includes presenting, for a first predetermined period of time, a plurality of stimuli to the test subject through a first computer implemented interface. The method further includes, in response to presenting at least one stimulus, receiving, within a second predetermined period of time, at least one test subject response from the test subject through a second computer implemented interface. The method further includes determining a quantitative emotional profile of the test subject based on the at least one test subject response. |
| US09603561B2 |
Methods and systems for improving the reliability of orthogonally redundant sensors
Methods and systems for sensor calibration and sensor glucose (SG) fusion are used advantageously to improve the accuracy and reliability of orthogonally redundant glucose sensor devices, which may include optical and electrochemical glucose sensors. Calibration for both sensors may be achieved via fixed-offset and/or dynamic regression methodologies, depending, e.g., on sensor stability and Isig-Ratio pair correlation. For SG fusion, respective integrity checks may be performed for SG values from the optical and electrochemical sensors, and the SG values calibrated if the integrity checks are passed. Integrity checks may include checking for sensitivity loss, noise, and drift. If the integrity checks are failed, in-line sensor mapping between the electrochemical and optical sensors may be performed prior to calibration. The electrochemical and optical SG values may be weighted (as a function of the respective sensor's overall reliability index (RI)) and the weighted SGs combined to obtain a single, fused SG value. |
| US09603559B2 |
Capillary refill time diagnostic apparatus and methods
An apparatus for measuring capillary refill time has a measurement module containing at least two radiation sources and at least one detector configured to detect radiation from each source that interacts with and is received from a measurement region of a patient or subject. One radiation source may be characterized by a wavelength that is absorbed substantially equally by oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin. The other radiation source may be substantially unaffected by the presence or absence of blood in the measurement region. The measurement module may be applied against a measurement region of a patient for a first time period, and the released from the measurement region for a second time period, and detected signals processed to quantitatively evaluate capillary refill time. |
| US09603558B2 |
Methods and devices for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes
Methods and devices for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes are disclosed in which an analyte concentration within a peritoneal fluid of a human subject may be determined by implanting an analyte sensor apparatus in the subject where the apparatus may comprise a housing and a flexible sensing catheter which has a lumen with a plurality of apertures and an exterior surface with an analyte sensor affixed thereto. The catheter may comprise a proximal end attached to the housing and the remaining end may be positioned freely within the peritoneal space to contact peritoneal fluid where an analyte concentration in the peritoneal fluid may be sensed. The housing may be anchored at a subcutaneous site proximate the peritoneal space. The sensed analyte concentration may then be transduced into a transmittable electrical signal. |
| US09603557B2 |
Transcutaneous analyte sensor
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for measuring an analyte in a host. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for transcutaneous measurement of glucose in a host. |
| US09603555B2 |
Motion/vibration detection system and method with self-injection locking
A motion/vibration detection system and method therefore are provided. The system includes a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter includes a transmit/receive antenna unit and a first oscillator. The receiver includes a receiving unit and a demodulation unit. The transmit/receive antenna unit receives an output signal from the first oscillator and transmits a detection signal. The detection signal is reflected from at least one object under detection into a reflected detection signal, which is received by the transmit/receive antenna unit. The transmit/receive antenna unit injects the reflected detection signal into the first oscillator and accordingly the first oscillator is under a self-injection locking mode. The receiving unit receives the detection signal. The demodulation unit demodulates the detection signal received by the receiving unit into a baseband output signal, to extract at least one motion/vibration information of the objection under detection. |
| US09603552B2 |
Measuring method, pedestal and measuring system for determining biometric data of human feet
The invention relates to a measuring method for determining biometric data of human feet, comprising the following steps providing a reference object, which has at least one reference pattern, providing a freely moveable image recording device, automatically detecting the relative position and the alignment of the image recording device relative to the reference object using the at least one reference pattern, automatically recording of several images by the image recording device, wherein each individual image is only recorded, when the relative position and the alignment of the image recording device relative to the reference object corresponds to a triggering position predetermined for the respective image, determining biometric data of the at least one foot by means of the recorded images.Furthermore, the present invention relates to a measuring system as well as a pedestal for determining biometric data of human feet. |
| US09603550B2 |
State characterization based on multi-variate data fusion techniques
The ingestible event marker data framework provides a uniform, comprehensive framework to enable various functions and utilities related to ingestible event marker data (IEM data). Included are a receiver adapted to be associated with a body of an individual, the receiver configured to receive IEM data; a hub to receive the IEM data; and at least one IEM data system to receive the data from the hub. Among other information, behavioral data and predictive inferences may be provided. |
| US09603543B2 |
Method and apparatus for atrial arrhythmia episode detection
A method and implantable medical device for determining an atrial arrhythmia event that includes sensing a cardiac signal, determining an atrial arrhythmia score for identifying the arrhythmia event in response to the sensed cardiac signal, determining a sensing window in response to the sensed cardiac signal, the sensing window having a first portion and a second portion, determining signal characteristics of the sensed cardiac signal within the first portion and within the second portion, determining whether the sensed cardiac signal within the first portion and within the second portion corresponds to a P-wave in response to the determined signal characteristics, determining whether a signal to noise ratio of the sensed cardiac signal within the first portion and the second portion of the sensing window is satisfied, determining whether to update the arrhythmia score in response to the determined P-wave and the determined signal to noise ratio, and determining whether to delivery an arrhythmia therapy in response to the updated arrhythmia score. |
| US09603539B2 |
Systems and methods for modeling electrical activity of an anatomical structure
A system for modeling electrical activity of an anatomical structure. The system includes a database that is configured to store cell set data corresponding to a group of cells of the anatomical structure. The cell set data includes a cell model that represents electrical activity of the group of cells. The cell model has a model parameter that relates to ion channels in the cells. The electrical activity represented by the cell model is at least partially based upon the model parameter. The system also includes a user interface that is configured to accept user inputs to change the model parameter and thereby change the electrical activity represented by the cell model to form a reconfigured cell model. The system also includes a display that is configured to display the user inputs and a processor that is configured to determine the electrical activity of the anatomical structure using the reconfigured cell model. |
| US09603538B2 |
Implantable cuff and method for functional electrical stimulation and monitoring
An implantable cuff includes an elastic collar, at least one conductive segment disposed on or within the elastic collar, and at least one conductor in electrical communication with the at least one conductive segment. The elastic collar defines an internal opening configured to receive an internal body tissue. At least a portion of the elastic collar includes a stiffening region having a stiffness greater than a second region of the elastic collar. The at least one conductor is configured to operably mate with an apparatus capable of delivering electrical stimulation to, and/or recording an electrical activity of, the internal body tissue. |
| US09603535B2 |
Method and system for determining life threatening condition via bodily worn sensors
A system for determining a life threatening condition of a human may include at least one mobility sensor couplable to a human body and configured to measure mobility parameters of said human body; at least one physiological sensor couplable to a human body and configured to measure physiological parameters of said human body; at least one environmental sensor configured to measure environmental parameters indicative of an environment of said human body; and a computer processor configured to apply a decision function configured to determine a predefined life endangering condition of said human body, based on said measured mobility, physiological, and environmental parameters, and statistical relationship therebetween. |
| US09603534B2 |
Method and system for estimating momentary cardiovascular performance reserve
The invention relates to a method for determining a cardiovascular performance reserve for each individual patient, comprising the steps of: a) receiving input physiological data from the patient for obtaining a parameter Z which is or approximates the product of the Stroke Volume (SV) by the Systemic Vascular Resistance (SVR); b) providing a value representing the Respiratory Rate (RR) of said patient, wherein the Respiratory Rate (RR) value is provided by measurements using dedicated device(s), calculations from the input physiological data or manually by using best estimate; c) providing anthropometric data of said patient for calculating the Body Surface Area (BSA) of said individual, wherein the anthropometric data includes at least body dimensions (such as height and weight) of said patient; d) calculating the Cardiovascular Reserve (CVR) by using said Z parameter and said RR according to following formula: CVR=(Z/RR); e) calculating a Cardiovascular Reserve Index (CVRI) by standardizing said CVR (by said BSA) and normalizing it to a scale of 1 according to the following formula: CVRI=CVR/(BSA*4); and outputting said Cardiovascular Reserve Index. |
| US09603532B2 |
Automated identification of occlusion location in the cuprit coronary artery
A diagnostic ECG system analyzes lead traces for evidence of ST elevation in the lead signals. The pattern of ST elevation in leads having predetermined vantage points to the electrical activity of the heart and, in some instances, the presence of ST depression in certain other leads, identifies a specific coronary artery or branch as the culprit coronary artery for an acute ischemic event. ECG measurements which are associated with the identity of specific arterial occlusion locations are calculated and used to form a classifier of the probability of occlusion at different locations. The location identified as having the highest probability is indicated to a user as the most likely occlusion location. |
| US09603527B2 |
Person positioning and health care monitoring system
A person positioning and health care monitoring system includes a monitoring center, a RFID tag device, and a tracking module. The monitoring center includes positioning data corresponding to a target. The RFID tag device is located on the target and includes a memory storing a target identification (ID) number and an infrared LED. Each tracking module includes infrared cameras and an RFID device. The tracking module uses the RFID device to communicate with the RFID tag device so as to receive the target identification (ID) number. The tracking module communicates with the monitoring center so as to provide the target identification (ID) number and orientation data corresponding to the target for the monitoring center. The monitoring center determines coordinates of the target according to coordinates of the tracking module and the orientation data corresponding to the target. |
| US09603526B2 |
Systems and methods for compound motor action potential monitoring with neuromodulation of the pelvis and other body regions
An electromyography muscle sensing system including a sensor platform and a cloud-based data analysis and storage platform. The sensor platform has an electromyography muscle sensor having sensing electrodes and a signal processing circuit having a sensor output, an analog-to-digital converter having a digital output, a memory, a communications device, a display indicating a status and an indication of CMAP presence, a microcontroller maintaining a record of a current procedure, transmitting in real-time the record, determining if CMAP is being achieved, and displaying a status or indication of CMAP. The data analysis and storage platform has a database, organizes and stores the output data, maintains a history of each procedure, analyzes the output data and defines a successful CMAP outcome, predicts an outcome of the current procedure if the output data correlates with stored output data of a successful CMAP outcome, and real-time communicates the outcome of the current procedure. |
| US09603521B2 |
Medical measuring device
A measuring device for non-invasive determination of at least one physiological parameter includes at least one diagnostic sensor unit to generate measuring signals, and an evaluation unit for processing of measuring signals. The diagnostic sensor unit is integrated into or connectible to the keyboard of a computer or into a mobile device of entertainment or communication technology, with the diagnostic sensor unit including: an optical measuring unit including at least one radiation source for irradiation of the examined body tissue and at least one radiation sensor for detection of the radiation scattered and/or transmitted from the body tissue, and/or an ECG unit for capturing an ECG signal via two or more ECG electrodes, and/or a temperature or heat sensor, and/or a bio-electrical impedance measuring unit. |
| US09603519B2 |
Ophthalmic range finding
Embodiments of the invention provide methods and systems for analyzing the ophthalmic anatomy of a patient posterior to the cornea. The method may include scanning a focus of a femtosecond laser beam along a path within the patient's eye. A portion of the path may be disposed posterior to the patient's cornea. The method may also include acquiring a first reflectance image and a second reflectance image associated with the focus disposed respectively at a first location of the path and a second location of the path. The method may further include determining the presence or absence of an ophthalmic anatomical feature of the eye based on a comparison between the first reflectance image and the second reflectance image. |
| US09603517B2 |
Computerized pupillary distance measurement system and method
The present disclosure relates generally to a system and method for determining the pupillary distance of a person, more particularly determining the person's pupillary distance by using a computerized screen. The system and method do not require the trip or expense of a doctor or store visit, and are optimized for convenience and cost effectiveness. In a general embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for determining a pupillary distance of a person without physically measuring the pupillary distance with a device. The method includes receiving a front facial image of the person, determining a scale of the image based on an estimated canthal distance, and determining the pupillary distance of the person based, in part, on the determined scale of the image. |
| US09603515B2 |
Catheter for tracheo-bronchial suction with visualization means
A catheter for tracheal or bronchial suction including a unit for displaying the artificial airways, the trachea and the bronchial tree so as to allow the removal of secretions; in particular, the catheter for tracheal or bronchial suction includes optical fibers, a microcamera or another visualization technology positioned in the distal end. The operator can identify the position of the distal end, of the artificial airways, of the trachea and of the bronchial tree on the screen. Therefore, it is possible to ensure that the tube of the catheter is adjacent to or inside collections of fluid secretions or other material to be sucked up. The suction can be selectively applied to avoid damage to the mucosa and to facilitate the more complete elimination of secretions. |
| US09603512B2 |
Wirelessly powered medical devices and instruments
A medical device that is wirelessly powered by a resonant magnetic field, the device automatically coupling to a power transmitter in a control unit when brought within a threshold radius. In one embodiment, the control unit automatically identifies the medical device and automatically adjusts its settings to control the medical device, where the device and power transceivers may be provided detachable from either or both the endoscope/camera and camera control unit or may be provide integral to either one or both. |
| US09603510B2 |
Method and apparatus for delivering an endoscope via microsurgical instruments while performing microscopic surgery
The present invention relates to a surgical apparatus that includes a surgical instrument including an elongated shaft extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end, a working element coupled to the distal end of the elongated shaft for manipulating tissue; an endoscope having a tubular body including an image fiber, an endoscopic lens coupled to a distal end of the tubular body and operably coupled to the image fiber, the endoscopic lens defining a viewing field about a central axis; and the endoscope mounted to the elongated shaft of the surgical instrument, the endoscopic lens protruding from an outer longitudinal surface of the elongated shaft, the central axis of the viewing field being oblique to the longitudinal axis of the elongated shaft and intersecting the outer longitudinal surface, the working element located within the viewing field and separated from the central axis by a distance. |
| US09603508B2 |
Method for capturing and displaying endoscopic maps
A method for capturing and displaying endoscopic maps is disclosed generally comprising providing an endoscope with a view vector that pivots relative to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope, programming a scan trajectory along which the view vector moves relative to the longitudinal axis of the endoscope to provide a predefined sequence of views of a surface, and capturing a sequence of images corresponding to the predefined sequence of views as the view vector moves along that scan trajectory. A set of configuration coordinates is associated with each of the captured images, and the images and the coordinates associated therewith are used to create a map of the interior surface that is larger than the view attending the view vector. |
| US09603504B2 |
Footwear cleaning device
Various apparatus for cleaning footwear are described. One footwear cleaning apparatus includes a box having an open top surface for receiving a piece of footwear; and a plurality of brushes arrayed within the box and positioned substantially parallel to a bottom surface of the box, wherein the plurality of brushes includes at least one first brush configured to contact a first side surface of the piece of footwear, at least one second brush configured to contact a different, second side surface of the piece of footwear, and at least one third brush configured to contact a bottom surface of the piece of footwear, and wherein the at least one first brush and the at least one second brush are configured to, when actuated, rotate towards a center of the box about an axis that is substantially parallel to the bottom surface of the box. |
| US09603500B2 |
Domestic appliance
A domestic appliance includes a housing, a base support configured to support the housing on a floor, and a communication module configured to send and/or receive data wirelessly. The communication module is disposed within the base support, with the base support being made of plastic, at least in an area adjacent to the communication module. |
| US09603498B2 |
Separating apparatus in a vacuum cleaner
A vacuum cleaner having a vac motor and a separating assembly for separating out dust particles entrained in an airflow drawn through the separator by the vac motor. The separating assembly is a multi-stage separating assembly comprising a primary separation stage and a secondary, non-cyclonic separation stage which is downstream of the primary separation stage, the non-cyclonic separation stage comprising a flow bend for changing the direction of the airflow thereby to separate out dust particles entrained in the airflow. A primary dust collector is provided for collecting dust particles separated out by the first separation stage, and a secondary dust collector is provided for collecting the dust particles separated out by the flow bend, wherein the primary dust collector at least partly surrounds the secondary dust collector. |
| US09603497B2 |
Handheld blower
A handheld blower includes a housing having an air inlet and a duct assembly mounted in front of the air inlet, the duct assembly including a duct connected with the housing, a motor and a fan mounted in the duct, a battery, and a blowpipe connected to the housing by the duct assembly, the blowpipe defining a central axis in the length direction, and a handle arranged above the housing and the battery. The handle includes a gripping portion arranged on opposite sides of a plane in which the gravity center of the blower is located, and the plane is parallel to a central axis of the blowpipe and substantially perpendicular to a working ground. The gravity center of the handheld blower is adjacent to the gripping portion which enhances the handling comfort and reduces operator fatigue during long times of operation. |
| US09603494B1 |
Foamed soap dispensing structure
A foamed soap dispensing structure comprises a container, a cover set, a faucet, and a foaming unit. The foaming unit has a foaming member and an outer ring. The foaming member has two inlets and a foam material. The outer ring has an assembling end corresponding to a connection end of a soap providing portion of the faucet. When the foaming unit is clogged, the foaming unit may be pulled out by an user so that the assembling end may be separated from the connection end of the soap providing portion to easily replace the foaming member and then to achieve the effect of easy construction. |
| US09603491B2 |
Expanding curtain
An expanding curtain does not require the addition or installation of a new curved rod and/or any external curtain supports, control devices, or adapters to expand the usable space in the enclosure area and/or prevent the inward intrusion of the curtain towards the user. Rather, the curtain itself may have the strength, rigidity and/or fortitude to form an outwardly extended shape (e.g., away from the enclosure area) that may hold it in place, thus, expanding the amount of space available for utilization by the user of the enclosure area. The curtain easily and rapidly mounts and thereafter may be easily slidable/manipulated between an open and closed position. The curtain may surround, divide and/or provide privacy to a specific area and/or confined space. The curtain may also maintain a mold, mildew and germ resistant facade, while remaining inexpensive to manufacture. |
| US09603487B2 |
Self-cleaning deadweight holder for fryer apparatus
The invention relates to a self-cleaning deadweight holder configured to hold a deadweight within a cooking apparatus. In some embodiments, the holder may comprise a top plate, an exhaust cylinder, a bottom plate, a plurality of support plates, and a plurality of guide plates. The top plate may include a through hole disposed at substantially a center of the top plate and configured to allow at least one of liquid and steam to pass therethrough. An outer diameter of the bottom plate may be less than an outer diameter of the top plate and an outer diameter of each of the plurality of guide plates, and the plurality of guide plates may be configured to permit movement of the deadweight therethrough. In some embodiments, the cooking apparatus may comprise a cooking chamber, a steam box, a vent tube, an exhaust tube, a drain tube, and a pressure relief tube. |
| US09603486B2 |
Barbecue cooking assembly
A barbecue cooking assembly includes a rotating disk capable of rotating around a shaft and a skewer for impaling food. Several skewer brackets are disposed on the rotating disk. The edge of a disk surface of the rotating disk is provided with a first notch corresponding to each skewer bracket. The end of the skewer bracket is fixedly connected to the disk surface, and the other end extends in a direction far away from the center of the rotating disk to form a limit piece parallel to the disk surface. The limit piece is provided with a second notch corresponding to the first notch and disposed coaxially with the first notch. |
| US09603484B2 |
Ceramic cooker rotisserie
A rotisserie device useful in a partially opened, hinged, covered grill includes a support ring that is shaped and configured to inhibit airflow into and out of the grill when the cover is partially opened. The support ring includes one or more cover supporting portions or chocks that hold the cover and base apart when the cover is partially opened, and one or more apertures through the ring that can receive a rotatable spindle which serves as or which drives a removable, rotatable rotisserie spit. |
| US09603483B2 |
Self-heating systems and methods for rapidly heating a comestible substance
Self-heating systems for rapidly and effectively heating a comestible substance are disclosed. Self-heating systems generally include a reaction chamber and a heating chamber. The heating chamber contains a substance to be heated. The reaction chamber contains reactants that, when contacted, exothermically react. The containers and reactants can be configured to heat at least six fluid ounces of comestible substance in less than one minute. The solid chemical reactant mixture can comprise magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, and/or calcium oxide. Methods for heating at least six fluid ounces of comestible substance in less than one minute are also provided. |
| US09603480B2 |
System, package, apparatus and method for dosing coffee beans
A system for dosing coffee beans, comprising a coffee bean package provided with at least one wall which at least partly encloses an inner space for multiple dosages of coffee beans, and a coffee bean outlet for delivering coffee beans, and an apparatus provided with a coffee bean grinder, a coffee bean inlet for supplying coffee beans from the coffee bean package to the grinder, a connecting device for connecting the coffee bean package to the apparatus, so that the coffee bean outlet can be connected to the coffee bean inlet, and a dosing device provided with a dosing space which is arranged for feeding-through one predetermined dose of coffee beans from the coffee bean outlet to the coffee bean inlet. |
| US09603475B2 |
Food tray cup holder
A cup holder for holding a plurality of cups on a food tray comprises a pair of spaced apart lower lip extensions for fitting onto the food tray; a sidewall region extending upwardly from each lower lip extension; and a top plane region that connects both sidewall regions and extends: substantially perpendicular to the sidewall regions and substantially parallel to a flat upper surface of the food tray. This top plane region includes a plurality of spaced apart apertures that hold a beverage cup while transporting food and drinks on the food tray. |
| US09603472B2 |
Popcorn salt holding and dispensing system and method
A popcorn salt holding and dispensing system and method includes a container that has a quantity of popcorn therein. The container has a bottom wall and a peripheral wall which is attached to and extends upwardly therefrom. The peripheral wall has an upper edge defining an opening extending into the container. A housing has salt therein and the housing includes a first end, a second end and a perimeter wall extending between the first and second ends. The first end has a plurality of apertures extending therethrough to allow salt from the housing to flow outwardly of the housing through the apertures. The housing is removably coupled to the container with a mounting and moved back and forth over the popcorn to deposit salt on the popcorn. |
| US09603471B2 |
Beverage lid cover for enhancing aroma
A lid for a beverage cup includes a mouth opening, an aroma opening, and a concentrator member. The mouth opening is positioned closer to a rim of the lid than the aroma opening. An area of the aroma opening is greater than an area of the mouth opening. The concentrator member surrounds the aroma opening and extends from a plane formed by the aroma opening to a height above the aroma opening. A cross sectional area of the concentrator decreases in a direction from a base to an upper end of the concentrator, creating a concentration of beverage aromas in the space surrounding a user's nose. The concentrator channels a concentrated amount of aroma to the nose, providing an enhanced drinking and tasting experience. |
| US09603469B2 |
Apparatuses and kits for displaying items
A item-displaying apparatus and kit includes a post member having at least one opening formed in a sidewall thereof and at least one item-supporting frame. The frame includes a first branch member adapted to be inserted within the at least one opening, a second branch member having a item holder at its first portion and a linking member extending between the first branch member and the second branch member. When the first branch member is inserted into the at least one opening and a force is applied on the item holder, a second portion of the second branch member engages the sidewall of the post member. |
| US09603453B2 |
Reclining chair with tilting action to provide heart-rest position
A reclining health-care chair includes: a base configured to rest on an underlying surface; a frame including a pair of opposed arms; a seat; a backrest; a footrest; a tilting mechanism comprising a plurality of pivotally interconnected links, the tilting mechanism attached to the base and to the seat and configured to control movement of the seat relative to the base; a reclining mechanism comprising a plurality of pivotally interconnected links, the reclining mechanism attached to the backrest, footrest, seat, frame and tilting mechanism to control relative movement of the backrest, footrest, frame and seat relative to the base; and a power actuating unit attached to the seat and to the tilting mechanism. The chair is movable between (a) an upright position, in which the footrest is retracted beneath the seat, the seat defines an angle α relative to the underlying surface, and the backrest defines an angle ε relative to the underlying surface, and (b) a fully reclined position, in which the footrest is extended in front of the seat, the seat defines an angle γ relative to the underlying surface that is greater than the angle α, the backrest defines an angle δ relative to the underlying surface that is less than the angle ε, and the footrest is positioned such that an occupant's feet are higher than the occupant's heart. |
| US09603447B2 |
Reading material carrier and stand
A reading material carrier and stand is a device that is utilized to store and transport books and other reading materials as well as serve as a stand for convenient reading and writing. The device features a hollow spine and a foldable housing shell with a slide-out accessory panel and a slide-out writing panel. The accessory panel is capable of storing accessories while the writing panel provides a rigid and flat surface on which to write. The device additionally features a snake lamp for illumination during reading and writing that is flexible and may be adjusted to an orientation that is convenient for the user. The device is able to serve as a stand and may be mounted to a desk or similar object via a securing clamp. When folded for convenient transportation, the device may be easily transported through a carrying strap. |
| US09603445B2 |
Work top with extensible retaining means
Provided is a work top with extensible retainer. An extensible retainer may be configured as a U-shaped bracket either introduced laterally into the work top or introduced into a retaining frame, located beneath the work top, or introduced laterally into a drawer, located beneath the work top, or guided through bracket holders fitted beneath the work top. If an extensible retainer is in the extended state, then it is possible to fit waste containers therein. An extensible retainer allow containers to be fitted in a space-saving and straightforward manner. An extensible retainer may be fitted on more than one side of the work top. A plurality of extensible retainers in combination with one another may receive one or more containers. |
| US09603444B2 |
Toothbrush having oral care fluid delivery
A fluid dispensing toothbrush. In one aspect, the toothbrush comprises a body having a reservoir containing an oral care fluid therein, the oral care fluid being delivered to an applicator via capillary action. The toothbrush comprises an actuator for moving either the applicator and/or the reservoir between different positions. |
| US09603442B2 |
Oral care implement with fluid applicator and method of assembling the same
An oral care implement, such as a toothbrush, having a wick applicator and a method of assembling the same. The implement includes a head, a handle connected to the head by a neck portion, and a recess. The recess is arranged for receipt of the wick applicator. The handle includes an internal fluid reservoir holding a fluid in communication with the recess. The wick applicator is arranged to enable a fluid to pass therethrough by capillary action and has a first end portion and a second end portion. The second portion of the wick applicator comprises at least one projection for engaging at least one cooperating portion of the recess to secure the wick applicator in the recess at an operative position, whereupon the wick applicator is in fluid communication with the fluid in the reservoir. |
| US09603436B2 |
Applicator
An applicator for delivering an application liquid fed from a reservoir, from a delivery port to an outside by way of an interior space of an application body, includes a spacer inserted in the interior space of the application body. In this applicator, a clearance between an exterior face of the spacer and an interior face of the application body forms a communication passage for flowing the application liquid, and the application liquid is delivered from the delivery port by way of the communication passage. |
| US09603434B2 |
Mechanism of lipstick tube
A lipstick tube cartridge core comprising a ball (1), a fork (2), a spiral (3), and a cartridge (4). The spiral (3) and the cartridge (4) are provided therebetween with a keyway structure (33 and 43) arranged in the axial direction and an engaging ring (31 and 42) and engaging groove (32 and 41) structure arranged in the circumferential direction. As the spiral (3) and the cartridge (4) are provided therebetween with the keyway structure (33) arranged in the axial direction and the engaging ring (31 and 42) and engaging groove (32 and 41) structure arranged in the circumferential direction, retention of the spiral (3) and of the cartridge (4) is implemented without using a glue, thus preventing a scenario in which a cosmetic paste is contaminated by the glue. |
| US09603428B1 |
Portable workstation
The portable workstation includes a case having a base, a first side wall and a second side wall, a back side wall positioned between the first side wall and the second side wall, and a selectively pivotable cover including an upper side and a lower side. The lower side of the pivotable cover can have a screen for displaying media, such as visual images. An upper compartment is positioned beneath the selectively pivotable cover and a plurality of drawers is positioned beneath the upper compartment. A locking mechanism is positioned in communicating relation with each of the plurality of drawers. A telescopic handle is coupled to the back side wall. A ruler section is positioned opposite the back side wall. At least one wheel is positioned in communicating relation with the base. |
| US09603425B2 |
Case for electronic tablet
A case incorporates a built-in stand for an electronic device, such as an electronic tablet computer, which the case houses. The case protects the electronic device and allows a user to view and access the device without removing it from the case. The built-in stand is adjustable and allows for multiple viewing angles. |
| US09603421B2 |
Channel setting
A gem setting comprising a first wall with a first groove and a second wall with a second groove, the first wall and the second wall having a channel between them and the first groove facing towards the second groove such that when the plurality of gems are set into the channel the crown of the gems extends above the first wall top and the second wall top; four soldering prongs attached to the ends of the walls and a ring portion, wherein the ring portion is soldered to the four soldering prongs to enclose the plurality of gems in the channel. |
| US09603420B2 |
Systems and methods for umbrella/parasol/personal sunshade closure
A bracelet or other type of body jewelry, such as a necklace, an anklet, a belly chain, or earrings, secures the canopy of the umbrella, parasol, or personal sunshade in place and closed when not in use. A method of closure eliminates the need for snaps, straps, Velcro, buttons, etc. on the umbrella's canopy. The user slides the bracelet, or other type of body jewelry, onto the canopy to keep the canopy closed, and slides the jewelry off of the canopy and puts it on their wrist, or other body part, when they want to open and use the umbrella, parasol, or personal sunshade. |
| US09603416B1 |
Systems and methods for adjusting variable geometry, height, weight distribution dynamics in orthotic devices and equipment
An active suspension orthotic support system is disclosed. The suspension orthotic support system comprises at least one variable resistance beam extending from a heel section to a mid-arch section of the footwear, wherein rotation of the variable resistance beam from a first position to a second position causes a resistance provided by the variable resistance beam to vary between a minimum resistance to a maximum resistance. |
| US09603409B2 |
Customizable replacement strap converter system for flip flop sandals
A customizable replacement strap converter system for flip flop sandals provides the ability to convert flip flop sandals into lace-up sandals. Converter pegs are inserted into a stock sandal sole after the stock straps have been removed. A plurality of straps is then threaded through loop bands of the converter pegs in order to create a custom strap arrangement 21. |
| US09603407B2 |
Interdigitated cellular cushioning
An interdigitated cellular cushioning system includes an array of void cells protruding from each of two binding layers interdigitated between the two binding layers. Peaks of each of the void cells are attached to the opposite binding layer forming the interdigitated cellular cushioning system. The interdigitated cellular cushioning system may be used to absorb and distribute a source of kinetic energy incident on the interdigitated cellular cushioning system (e.g., an impact or explosion) so that the amount of force transmitted through the interdigitated cellular cushioning system is low enough that it does not cause injury to personnel or damage to personnel and/or equipment adjacent the interdigitated cellular cushioning system. |
| US09603404B2 |
Helmet system and safety device for use with a helmet
A helmet system has a restraint feature for deterring neck injuries that includes a helmet having an attachment member at the rear of the helmet and a tether coupled to the attachment member at the rear of the helmet. The tether couples the helmet to a part of the body of a user in order to limit movement of the helmet. A safety feature for use with a helmet in order to deter neck injuries includes a tether having a first connector at one end for fixedly mating with a helmet and a second connector at the other end for mating with a part of a body of a user. The tether is positionable in the rear neck area of a user. |
| US09603400B2 |
Golf shirt with improved fit and contrast
The present invention is directed to a golf shirt with two laterally-opposed textile bands affixed thereto that are less stretchable than a textile used to construct the torso portion and the shoulder portion of the shirt. A first end of each band is adhered to a skirt of the collar portion, and a second end is adhered to a free end of the shirt. One side of the length of the pair of bands is adhered to the shirt at each point between the first and second end. When the shirt is worn by a person, and the person addresses a golf ball (e.g., extends his arms in front of his body and/or partially clasps his hands together around a golf club), the textile used to construct the bands pulls the sleeve portion away from the wearer and/or decreases a movement associated with the sleeve portion. |
| US09603399B1 |
Sleeve assembly for a garment and method of manufacture
Sleeve assembly for a shirt includes a sleeve adapted to receive an arm and a cuff. An outer surface of the cuff is connected to a lower edge region of the sleeve at a location between upper and lower edges of the cuff to define a cuff extension portion. The sleeve assembly is foldable from the unfolded condition to a first folded condition about the location at which the cuff is connected to the sleeve. The sleeve assembly is foldable from the first folded condition to a second folded condition about a location at which a free edge of the cuff abuts the sleeve to place a portion of the sleeve on an outer side of the sleeve assembly and an outer surface of the cuff extension portion between two portions of the sleeve. |
| US09603395B2 |
Filtering face-piece respirator having darted mask body
A cup-shaped filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that has a multi-layer filtering structure 16. The mask body 12 includes at least one dart 60 permanently bonded in the filtering structure 16, the dart 60 tapering from a center plane 32 of the mask body 12 to a side edge of the mask body. The dart 60 inhibits collapse of the cup-shaped form of the respirator 10. |
| US09603394B2 |
Batting pad for adjusting location of bat in batter's hand
A batting pad comprising a body made from a cushioning material and having a ring portion adapted to fit over a batter's thumb and an appendage to cushion the palm area between a batter's thumb and index finger. The appendage has a thickness T at its thickest point located between the first end and the distant end, and the thickness T of the appendage is selected to optimize an angle of a bat in the batter's hand relative to a line parallel to the batter's forearm, the angle being determined by the thickness T of the appendage displacing the bat toward the tip of the batter's index finger and causing the bat to contact the palm of the batter's hand near the batter's little finger. |
| US09603390B2 |
Atomizer and electronic cigarette having same
An atomizer with a compact structure and convenient assembly is provided. The atomizer includes an atomizing sleeve and an atomizing assembly fixed therein, a liquid reserving space configured for storing a tobacco liquid is defined in the atomizing sleeve. The atomizing assembly includes a fixing sleeve and a porous body arranged therein, an aerosol passage and at least one liquid opening are formed in the fixing sleeve. The porous body absorbs tobacco liquid through the at least one liquid opening, and the porous body is hollow inside and having an atomizing space defined therein. A heating coil configured for heating tobacco liquid absorbed from the porous body into tobacco aerosol is fixed in the atomizing space. The aerosol passage configured for ejecting the tobacco aerosol is in communication with the atomizing space. An electronic cigarette having the atomizer is also provided. |
| US09603388B2 |
Electrically heated smoking system comprising at least two units
An electrically heated smoking system is provided, including a secondary unit capable of receiving a smoking article having an aerosol-forming substrate. The secondary unit includes at least one heating element and an interface for connection to a primary power supply, and further includes a secondary power supply and secondary circuitry. The secondary circuitry is arranged to control supply of electrical power from the secondary power supply to the at least one heating element: (a) in a pre-heating mode during which the substrate temperature is increased to an operating temperature; (b) in a smoking mode, during which the substrate temperature is maintained at substantially the operating temperature; and (c) in a charging mode, so that the secondary power supply has sufficient charge to increase the substrate temperature to the operating temperature in the pre-heating mode and to maintain the substrate temperature at substantially the operating temperature during the smoking mode. |
| US09603386B2 |
Method and device for heating control of an electronic cigarette
A method and device for heating control of an electronic cigarette are provided, wherein, the method includes steps as below: S1. sensing whether there is a smoke signal via a sensor or a switch, if yes, executing step S2; S2. activating a timer to record time and turn on a semiconductor switch so as to heat the heating element in a full output power mode; S3. heating the heating element in a constant power mode when the recording time of the timer arrives at a first preset time T0. When implementing the present invention, the adoption of the two heating methods for heating element makes an optimized atomization effect and an excellent taste of smoking possible, which is not affected by the changeable voltage of the battery. |
| US09603385B2 |
Immobilized diluents for smoking articles
Immobilized diluents in a smoking article are provided, wherein diluents can be immobilized through absorption and/or adsorption of the diluents into immobilizing materials, such as sorbents like silica gels. By immobilizing diluents, the diluents can be available for vaporization, while still being protected from migration and/or loss of the diluents in a smoking article. |
| US09603383B2 |
Gas entrainment in flowable foods
A method of entraining gas in a flowable food product comprising the steps of accelerating the flowable food product in a flow direction through a flow channel that includes a ramp. Gas is injected into the flowable food product transverse to the flow direction through a porous surface or plate while the food product traverses the ramp to generate a froth. An apparatus for entraining gas in a food product, comprises a source of flowable food product and a food product pump to accelerate the food product through a flow channel. A ramp is disposed in the flow channel as well as a porous surface forming a wall of the flow channel opposite the ramp. A source of gas is in communication with the porous surface, wherein gas is entrained in the food product as it passes by the ramp and the porous surface. |
| US09603382B2 |
Cooked poultry product and method of making the same
A poultry product prepared by removing bones from a poultry carcass and compressing the remaining meat portion of the carcass into a mold. The mold is placed in an oven and the poultry product is cooked. Once cooked and removed from the mold, the poultry product retains an appearance of the mold which may be the shape of a traditionally-prepared poultry carcass. The poultry product can be wrapped and sold as a prepared food product. |
| US09603380B2 |
Multifunctional refrigerant container and method of operating such a refrigerant container
A refrigerant container, which is in particular suitable for use in a cooling system designed for operation with a two-phase refrigerant, includes a receiving space for receiving a refrigerant that is disposed in an interior of the refrigerant container. Disposed in the receiving space of the refrigerant container is a heat exchanger allowing passage of a further refrigerant therethrough and being configured to remove heat from refrigerant in the liquid and/or gaseous state of aggregation that is received in the receiving space in order to supercool the refrigerant and/or convert the refrigerant to the liquid state of aggregation. |
| US09603378B2 |
Polypeptides having α-xylosidase activity and polynucleotides encoding same
The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having α-xylosidase activity, catalytic domains and polynucleotides encoding the polypeptides, catalytic domains. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the polynucleotides as well as methods of producing and using the polypeptides and catalytic domains. |
| US09603373B2 |
Glucosyl stevia composition
Glucosyl stevia compositions are prepared from steviol glycosides of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni. The glucosylation was performed by cyclodextrin glucanotransferase using the starch as source of glucose residues. The glucosyl stevia compositions were purified to >95% content of total steviol glycosides. The compositions can be used as sweetness enhancers, flavors, flavor enhancers and sweeteners in foods, beverages, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. |
| US09603372B2 |
Wood chip smoker for outdoor grills
A wood chip smoker is adapted for use in an outdoor grill that has a grate and a cover movable between open and closed positions. The smoker has a base for placement on the grill grate, a perforated section mounted on the base and provided with open spaces that collectively define an inlet area, a chimney extending above the perforated section, a regulator mounted on the chimney and movable between open and closed positions for the introduction of wood chips, and an outlet area for the outflow of smoke formed in at least one of the chimney and regulator, said outlet area being between 2 and 25% of the inlet area in size. |
| US09603369B2 |
Clonostachys rosea inoculated plant materials with fungicides and adjuvants
Clonostachys rosea strains have novel usefulness as inoculants of plants promoting plant vigor, health, growth, yield and a reduction of competitive stress caused by other fungi when used alone or sequentially with many fungicides in an integrated pest management system (IPM). Seed and foliar uses are shown to inoculate and subsequently achieve endophytic colonization of the portion of the plant treated. While the germinating conidia of this organism has been shown to tolerate several fungicide groups, the established mycelium of Clonostachys rosea is significantly more tolerant to systemic fungicides facilitating use in seed and foliar applications. Seed treatment and colonization may occur at any time after harvest resulting in endophyte enhanced seed that ignores or is marginally altered by other fungal organisms and may be suitable for Feed, Food and Seed uses. |
| US09603361B2 |
Virucidal composition
The invention relates to a virucidal composition comprising based on the compositionfrom 80 to 99 wt-% of a C2-C4 monoalcohol or a mixture thereof,from 0.1 to lower 2 wt-% of an organic acid,from 0.1 to 1 wt-% of an alkoxylated monoglyceride and/or alkoxylated diglyceride,wherein the pH value of the composition is from pH 3.3 to 5 and the remainder up to 100 wt-% is water.The invention further describes a method of inactivating viruses, and a product comprising the virucidal composition and means for applying it. |
| US09603358B2 |
Additives for use in wood preservation
The present invention relates to a wood preservative formulation comprising a biocidal agent which is a copper or zinc ion complexed with an amino compound selected from the group consisting of ammonia, a water soluble amine or alkanolamine and an aminocarboxylic acid and a stabilizer, as well as to aqueous treatment solutions comprising such a formulation and methods of treating wood or other cellulosic material utilizing said formulation. |
| US09603357B2 |
Method and device to evaporate active ingredients from a liquid solution
A method to evaporate active ingredients from a liquid solution, in which said liquid solution includes a solvent and at least one type of active ingredient, the method including dispensing in controlled time periods doses of said liquid solution on a liquid retaining support, where the solvent is evaporated from the support such that only the active ingredient remains on the support, and where the active ingredient is evaporated from the support after most of the solvent has evaporated. |
| US09603355B2 |
Composition for cryopreservation of cells and tissues
A composition for cryopreservation of cells and tissues of human and other animals in a safe manner without using toxic substances such as DMSO, as well as for freeze preserving or freeze-drying of foods and pharmaceuticals. In embodiments, ε-poly-L-lysine is reacted with succinic anhydride so that 60% or more of amino groups are blocked; and, thus obtained polymer compound is added to Dulbecco-modified eagle MEM culture medium (DMEM) on market sale to form a cryopreservation liquid. In embodiments for foods or pharmaceuticals, the ε-poly-L-lysine derivative was added by 0.5-10 wt % to curb freeze concentration. |
| US09603350B2 |
Above-ground termite station having a container and method of mounting the container
An above-ground termite station includes a container having a base, a side, and a lid together defining an interior space of the container. The side has at least two peripheral openings in spaced relationship with each other about a periphery of the container. Each of the peripheral openings is at least partially closed by a respective access closure that can be selectively removed to provide access to the interior space of the container through the peripheral opening. The container is mountable on an above-ground mounting surface with the base in generally opposed relationship with and abutting against the mounting surface. The lid is positionable between a closed position and an open position to permit access to the interior space of the container. A cartridge is sized and configured for insertion in and removal from the interior space of the container. |
| US09603347B2 |
Adjustable fishing rod
A fishing rod can be switched between greater rigidity in one configuration to greater flexibility in another configuration. The configuration having greater flexibility is useful when enhanced sensitivity to fish strikes is desired. |
| US09603346B2 |
Aquarium lighting system
An aquarium includes a curved aquarium housing that supports water, the water including a water surface that separates water from air within the housing. The aquarium also includes a lighting system coupled to the aquarium housing, the lighting system including an arm and a light element disposed at an end of the arm and outside of the aquarium housing that directs light into the aquarium housing at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the water surface. |
| US09603334B1 |
Maize inbred PH2D2J
A novel maize variety designated PH2D2J and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH2D2J with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2D2J 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 PH2D2J or a locus conversion of PH2D2J with another maize variety. |
| US09603332B1 |
Maize inbred PH2G07
A novel maize variety designated PH2G07 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH2G07 with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2G07 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 PH2G07 or a locus conversion of PH2G07 with another maize variety. |
| US09603331B1 |
Soybean variety XR39V15X
The invention relates to the soybean variety designated XR39V15X. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the soybean variety XR39V15X. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the soybean variety XR39V15X and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing soybean plants by crossing the soybean variety XR39V15X with itself or another soybean variety and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09603330B2 |
Snap pea variety sugar 153
The present invention provides novel snap pea cultivar Sugar 153 and plant parts, seed, and tissue culture therefrom. The invention also provides methods for producing a pea plant by crossing the pea plants of the invention with themselves or another pea plant. The invention also provides pea plants produced from such a crossing as well as plant parts, seed, and tissue culture therefrom. |
| US09603323B1 |
Hybrid corn variety 570102
The invention provides seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated 570102. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety 570102, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety 570102 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety 570102. |
| US09603320B1 |
Melon cultivars ME296, ME297, ME298 and ME299
The present invention provides novel melon plants and plant parts, seed, fruit, and tissue culture therefrom. The invention also provides methods for producing a melon plant by crossing the melon plants of the invention with themselves or another melon plant. The invention also provides plants produced from such a crossing as well as plant parts, seed, fruit, and tissue culture therefrom. |
| US09603310B2 |
Lopping shears with offset blade
Loppers include first and second elongated handles that are both directly connected and indirectly connected through a linkage assembly. The first handle has a static blade having a concave shearing edge extending generally transverse from the longitudinal axis of the first handle. The second handle has a curved end portion that curves toward the first handle and is pivotally secured to the static blade. An articulated blade has a convex cutting edge and is rotatably secured to the static blade. A link connects the curved end portion to an end of the articulated blade. Movement of the second handle relative to the first handle pivots the curved end portion about the static blade, thereby moving the cutting edge relative to the shearing edge via the link. The static blade and articulate blade are offset from the handles and extend generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the first handle. |
| US09603307B2 |
Leaf screen cleaner
A leaf screen cleaner system to remove crop material such as leaves and stalks from one or more leaf screens of a combine harvester, the system including a slotted carriage movable in opposing directions, a screen having plural members, each of the plural members disposed in a respective slot of the carriage. A pulley assembly is coupled to the carriage and a feeder house is coupled to the pulley assembly. Based on pivotal motion of the feeder house, the carriage moves relative to the screen along the plural members. |
| US09603305B2 |
Retractable row crop tire guard
A tire guard for a wheel of an agricultural vehicle includes a fender having a first width substantially covering a width of the wheel and a crop shield having a forward area and a back area. A first bracket connects the fender to the wheel and a second bracket connects the crop shield to the wheel. The crop shield is movable over the fender between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the forward area of the crop shield is disposed proximate an upper portion of the wheel and the back area of the crop shield is disposed proximate a rear portion of the wheel. In the second position, the forward area of the crop shield is disposed proximate a front portion of the wheel and the back area of the crop shield is disposed proximate an upper portion of the wheel. |
| US09603303B2 |
Universal mounting assembly for a utility vehicle and a system incorporating the same
A system and method for detachably securing an attachment to a zero-turn utility vehicle such as a zero-turn, stand-on mower. The system includes a mounting assembly provided on a hydraulically operated support member on the utility vehicle's frame; and a connector assembly provided on the attachment. The mounting assembly includes a pivotable plate member that is inserted into the complementary shaped connector assembly. The plate member includes a locking rod at an upper end. The connector assembly has side walls and a top wall that surround the plate member when the mounting assembly is engaged with the connector assembly. The top wall overhangs and captures the locking rod between the top wall and a back wall of the attachment. A locking mechanism secures the mounting assembly and connector assembly together. Moving the attachment is accomplished by actuating the hydraulic system on the utility vehicle to move the support member. |
| US09603302B2 |
Agricultural working machine having a display device
An agricultural working machine has at least one working unit and a display device for displaying or adjusting parameters of the working machine the at least one working unit of both. The display device has a display unit with jointly depictable display elements for visualization of parameter-based values, the display elements preferably arranged concentrically in a form of circular-ring sections. The display device also includes at least one bar display that at least partially encircles the display elements radially on the outer side. Indicator element for displaying a defined value are disposed on the at least one bar display. |
| US09603299B2 |
Multiple seed-type planting system with on-row selective delivery
A system for planting multiple types of seed and automatically switching between the varieties during planting in a single planting pass of a planting session of row-crop or other planting of an agricultural field. The system may include a bulk storage system, an on-row storage system, and a charging system that selectively delivers seeds of different varieties from the bulk storage system to the on-row storage system. The system may include a seed metering system that can be controlled at each of multiple row units to selectively plant different types or varieties of seed based on seed type or variety zones agricultural field, which may correspond to field characteristics defined in a seed variety prescription map. |
| US09603296B2 |
Wearing point attachment for plough share with asymmetric hole pattern
An attachment system for a wearing point on a plough share includes a wearing point forming one of a connection socket and a connection pin, and a holder configured to receive the wearing point and to be fixed to the plough share. The holder forms an other of the connection socket and the connection pin. The connection pin and the connection socket are provided with complementary, cooperating guide portions. The holder is provided with a first bolt-hole group and a second bolt-hole group. The first bolt-hole group is complementary to an attachment-hole group of a left-hand plough share, and the second bolt-hole group is complementary to an attachment-hole group of a right-hand plough share. |
| US09609795B2 |
Method of supplying solder to printed circuit board
Provided is a solder supply method of supplying, onto a mask sheet, solder to be printed on a printed circuit board. The method includes calculating an amount of solder supplied for a plurality of points in an X direction that is a lengthwise direction of a squeegee, and changing the amount of solder supplied at each point in the X direction based on a result of the calculation. |
| US09609787B2 |
Portable electronic device and battery pack for the same
A portable electronic device and a battery pack for the portable electronic device are provided. The portable electronic device includes a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) in which at least one electronic component is disposed, and a battery pack including a heat conductor separately disposed at a gap from the PCB and that transfers heat generated in the electronic component to a battery cell. |
| US09609780B2 |
Optoelectronic sensor having at least two circuit boards held via functional elements
The invention relates to an optoelectronic sensor, in particular to a light grid (10), having at least two circuit boards (19, 19-x) which are to be arranged one after the other in a longitudinal direction (16, z direction) and on which a plurality of light transmitters (18) and/or light receivers (20) are arranged in series, wherein the circuit boards (19-1, 19-2) are fixed in a desired position with respect to one another by a functional element (34) and wherein the circuit boards (19-1, 19-2) are held in a housing (12). It is proposed to provide an improved optoelectronic sensor, in particular a light grid, that the housing (12) is configured as a section and the circuit boards (19-1, 19-2) are held via the functional elements (34) in oppositely disposed grooves (50, 52) of the section (12) which extend in the longitudinal direction (16, z direction) so that the functional elements (34) position the circuit boards (19-1, 19-2) in a fixed position perpendicular (in the x-y plane) to the longitudinal direction (16, z direction). |
| US09609779B1 |
Apparatus for securing printed circuit boards
Apparatus and methods are provided for securing a component such as a printed circuit board in a device at a single edge of the component, thereby facilitating removal and replacement, increasing unobstructed access for attachments and cabling, and improving potential density capacity of the components within a device. |
| US09609776B2 |
Visual display device
A visual display includes a plurality of display panels. Each of the display panels is secured to a common support device and independently movable relative to an axis associated with the common support device. The display panels are positionable in a first position. |
| US09609770B2 |
Hinge torque fixing structure
A hinge torque fixing structure, comprising a hinge, a fulcrum and a torque shrapnel, wherein one end of the hinge is used for connecting a main body of electronic products, and the opposite end is provided with a circular hinge hole; one end of the fulcrum is used for connecting a lid of the main body, which is characterized in: the torque shrapnel is a ring-shaped polygonal shrapnel, wherein one end of the torque shrapnel is provided with an opening, each of two ends of the opening forming an outwardly protruding flange; when the torque shrapnel is disposed between the hinge and the hinge hole, the torque by rotating the hinge relative to the hinge hole is enhanced to keep the hinge closely rotated relative to the hinge hole without loose when there is an angle therebetween during positioning. |
| US09609769B2 |
System and method for ventilating and isolating electrical equipment
According to various embodiments, a system includes a power center or other electrical system. The system includes an enclosure having a ventilation opening and an isolation assembly. The isolation assembly includes a deformable portion and a blocking portion. The blocking portion is capable of substantially blocking the ventilation opening with a blocking surface. The deformable portion is configured to deform due to a level of pressure being applied to the isolation assembly such that the deformable portion plastically deforms and carries the blocking surface toward the ventilation opening. |
| US09609768B2 |
Wall mounting apparatus
A wall mounting apparatus includes a container defining a mounting hole therein, a lock device received in the container, and a connector engaging with the container and the lock device to assemble the container on a determined position stably. The lock device includes a driver, an electrical connector electrically connecting the driver, and an engaging plate driven by the driver. A recess is defined in the engaging plate. One end of the connector is mounted on the determined position, and the other end thereof extends through the mounting hole and supports the container. The electrical connector is turned off to make the driver drive the engaging plate moving towards the connector to make the connector insert in the recess of the engaging plate and be clasped by the engaging plate. |
| US09609765B2 |
Chassis of electronic device
A chassis for an electronic device may include a first metal layer to form an inner surface of the chassis, an insulating layer on the first metal layer, and a second metal layer on the insulating layer. The second metal layer may be connected to a ground area of a circuit board to be provided in the chassis. |
| US09609757B2 |
Vehicle vision system camera assembly with coaxial connector
A system for assembling a camera for a vision system of a vehicle includes a circuit board having an imaging array sensor disposed thereat, with the circuit board having connector circuitry at a side thereof. A lens barrel is provided and the circuit board is attached at the lens barrel. Solder pads are provided at the connector circuitry. A coaxial connector is provided and the coaxial connector is aligned with the connector circuitry at the circuit board. The system includes determining when the coaxial connector is aligned with the connector circuitry at the circuit board. When the coaxial connector is determined to be aligned with the connector circuitry, the coaxial connector is attached at the connector circuitry, with attaching the coaxial connector at the connector circuitry including soldering the coaxial connector at the connector circuitry via the solder pads. |
| US09609754B2 |
Package for mounting electronic element, electronic device, and imaging module
There are provided a package for mounting an electronic element which can be reduced in size and an electronic device. A package for mounting an electronic element includes an insulating base including a frame section; an electrode pad disposed on an upper surface of the frame section; a first wall conductor disposed in an upper end part of an inner wall of the frame section so as to be electrically connected to the electrode pad; and a wiring conductor embedded within the frame section so as to be electrically connected to the first wall conductor. Consequently, the package for mounting an electronic element can be reduced in size, and is capable of suppressing electrical short-circuiting between the wiring conductor and an electronic element and of suppressing occurrence of a crack in the insulating base. |
| US09609753B2 |
Multilayer ceramic capacitor and board for mounting of the same
A multilayer ceramic capacitor may include three external electrodes disposed on a mounting surface of a ceramic body and spaced apart from each other, and first and second lead-out portions extended from a first internal electrode so as to be exposed through the mounting surface of the ceramic body and spaced apart from each other in a length direction of the ceramic body have one or more space portions, respectively, and a board for mounting thereof is provided. |
| US09609749B2 |
Printed circuit board having power/ground ball pad array
A printed circuit board includes a laminated core including at least an internal conductive layer, and a build-up layer on the laminated core. The build-up layer includes a top conductive layer. A plurality of microvias is disposed in the build-up layer to electrically connect the top conductive layer with the internal conductive layer. A power/ground ball pad array is disposed in the top conductive layer. The power/ground ball pad array includes power ball pads and ground ball pads arranged in an array with a fixed ball pad pitch P. The power/ground ball pad array includes a 4-ball pad unit area that is comprised of only one ground ball pad and three power ball pads, or comprised of only one power ball pad and three ground ball pads. The 4-ball pad unit area has a rectangular shape and a dimension of about 2P×2P. |
| US09609748B2 |
Semiconductor module comprising printed circuit board and method for producing a semiconductor module comprising a printed circuit board
A semiconductor module includes a printed circuit board, a ceramic substrate and a semiconductor chip. The printed circuit board includes an insulating material, a cutout formed in the insulating material, and a first metallization layer, which is partly embedded into the insulating material. The first metallization layer includes a conductor track projection projecting into the cutout. The ceramic substrate includes a dielectric, ceramic insulation carrier, and an upper substrate metallization applied to a top side of the insulation carrier. The semiconductor chip is arranged on the upper substrate metallization, and the first metallization layer is mechanically and electrically conductively connected to the upper substrate metallization at the conductor track projection. |
| US09609739B2 |
Electronic device
According to one embodiment, an electronic device according to an embodiment includes, for example, a board, a first electronic component, and a heat dissipation member. The board includes a first face. The heat dissipation member is disposed at a side opposite to the first face of the first electronic component. The heat dissipation member is thermally connected to the first electronic component. The heat dissipation member includes a first extending portion, a second extending portion, and a plurality of third extending portions. The first extending portion extends along the first face. The second extending portion is positioned away, in a direction that intersects the first face, from the first extending portion by a space. The second extending portion extends along the first face. The plurality of the third extending portions are connected to the first extending portion and the second extending portion. The plurality of the third extending portions are positioned away from each other by a space. |
| US09609738B1 |
Graphite sheet to redirect SMT components during thermal exposure
A formed graphite sheet is shaped and sized as a protective shield positioned over an electronic component coupled to a PCB. The formed graphite sheet is used to protect a body of the electronic component from heat applied during the assembly of the electronic component to the PCB, such as the heating steps used in SMT and through-hole technology. The formed graphite sheet is shaped to selective direct impinging heat. The heat can be directly away from the entire electronic component. Alternatively, the heat can be selectively directed away from some portions of the electronic component and toward other portions of the electronic component. |
| US09609736B2 |
Touch panel and method of manufacturing the same
Disclosed are a touch panel and a method of manufacturing the same. A touch panel includes: a substrate on which an active area and an inactive area are defined, in which the substrate includes a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a third lateral side, and a fourth lateral side surrounding the active area and the inactive area is disposed at only two of the first lateral side, the second lateral side, the third lateral side, and the fourth lateral side; a sensing electrode pattern on the active area; and a wire pattern connected to the sensing electrode pattern, wherein the wire pattern is disposed at the inactive area. A use region on a front surface of the touch panel is maximized by removing a bezel formed at a side of the touch panel to improve convenience of a user. |
| US09609732B2 |
Laser-driven light source for generating light from a plasma in an pressurized chamber
An apparatus for producing light includes a chamber and an ignition source that ionizes a gas within the chamber. The apparatus also includes at least one laser that provides energy to the ionized gas within the chamber to produce a high brightness light. The laser can provide a substantially continuous amount of energy to the ionized gas to generate a substantially continuous high brightness light. |
| US09609730B2 |
Adjustment of VUV emission of a plasma via collisional resonant energy transfer to an energy absorber gas
Disclosed are methods of adjusting the emission of vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) radiation from a plasma in a semiconductor processing chamber. The methods may include generating a plasma in the processing chamber which includes a VUV-emitter gas and a collisional energy absorber gas, and adjusting the emission of VUV radiation from the plasma by altering the concentration ratio of the VUV-emitter gas to collisional energy absorber gas in the plasma. In some embodiments, the VUV-emitter gas may be helium and the collisional energy absorber gas may be neon, and in certain such embodiments, adjusting VUV emission may include flowing helium and/or neon into the processing chamber in a proportion so as to alter the concentration ratio of helium to neon in the plasma. Also disclosed are apparatuses which implement the foregoing methods. |
| US09609728B2 |
Lighting system and method of controlling the same
A lighting system according to the embodiment includes a lighting device; and a graphic user interface displayed on a touch screen of a lighting control device to control the lighting device. The graphic user interface includes a first region to display a map for an installation space of the lighting device and a lighting icon corresponding to the lighting device in the map; and a second region to display a menu for setting a control condition of the lighting device corresponding to the lighting icon. The map includes a plurality of division spaces obtained by dividing the installation space into a plurality of regions and the lighting icon is displayed in a specific division space corresponding to an actual installation portion of the lighting device. |
| US09609722B2 |
Multi-mode lighting system with proximity sensor
Described herein is a lighting system capable of responding to user input provided via proximity sensors. In some embodiments, proximity sensors are communicatively coupled to a processor capable of receiving input from the sensors. The sensors may be arranged in a row such that an object moving down the row proximate to the sensors may trigger each sensor sequentially. In some embodiments, the lighting system may alter a beam configuration or cycle between various lighting modes in response to receiving input from the proximity sensors. In some embodiments, the order in which the sensor input is received may be used to determine which lighting mode to cycle to. |
| US09609721B1 |
Light controller
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for performing actions based on a determined relative composition of light. In some implementations, data representing an amount of ambient light detected within the portion of the property by a light sensor located at the portion of the property is initially obtained. Data indicating (i) a shape of an optical spectra for a natural light source, and (ii) a shape of an optical spectra for a non-natural light source is then obtained. A relative composition of the ambient light detected within the portion of the property is determined. An estimated amount of natural light within the portion of the property is then determined. In response, the amount of light output by one or more light sources located at the portion of the property is adjusted. |
| US09609718B1 |
In-vehicle equipment
A FET of a power supply reverse connection protection section is connected between a battery and an electronic device, and at a time of reverse connection of the battery, the FET is turned off and a parasitic diode of the FET prevents a current flowing in a direction opposite to a direction at a time of normal connection. A transformer is used in a DC/DC converter of a first power supply section that supplies power to a control section, and a voltage generated in a secondary winding is applied to the FET. |
| US09609716B2 |
Undervoltage protection circuit for LED lamp
An undervoltage protection circuit for LED lamp includes a DC/DC converter, and a controlling circuit module. The controlling circuit module includes a signal collecting unit configured for collecting a signal, a signal comparing unit electrically connected to the signal collecting unit, and a signal processing unit electrically connected to the signal comparing unit. The signal comparing unit is configured for comparing a signal input from the signal collecting unit with a threshold voltage. The signal processing unit is configured for processing the signal output of the signal collecting unit to turn on or turn off the DC/DC converter. Whenever the voltage input is less than the threshold voltage which indicates an undervoltage condition, the controlling circuit module produces a high level and causes the DC/DC converter to not work as a result. Inversely, the controlling circuit module drops to a low level and the DC/DC converter begins to work. |
| US09609713B1 |
Kind of pulse width dimming control circuit for LED phase cut dimming power supply
The invention discloses a kind of pulse width dimming control circuit for LED phase cut dimming power supply, which comprises LED phase cut dimming power supply circuit and pulse width dimming control circuit. The pulse width dimming control circuit is composed of voltage sampling amplification circuit, signal conversion circuit, photoelectric coupler and pulse width PWM control circuit. The signal input terminal of the voltage sampling amplification circuit is connected to the live wire L and the null line N after passing through the anti-interference circuit for voltage sampling. The output control part of the pulse width PWM control circuit consists of a field-effect transistor, the drain electrode of which connects to LED lamp. The Invention is a kind of pulse width dimming control circuit for LED phase cut dimming power supply, which has no restriction on load power and has strong compatibility with phase cut dimmer, wide dimming range. |
| US09609712B2 |
Signal generating method and circuit for controlling dimming of LED
The present disclosure provides a signal generating method and a circuit for controlling dimming of an LED. The method comprises generating a first pulse signal, the first pulse signal comprising information of P bits gray levels, P being an integer, wherein the minimum pulse-width of the first pulse is N, N is an integer; generating a second pulse signal after the first pulse signal, the second pulse signal comprising information of Q bits gray levels, Q being an integer, wherein the amplitude of the second pulse signal is different from the amplitude of the first pulse signal, the minimum pulse-width of the second pulse is the same as the minimum pulse-width of the first pulse; and utilizing the first pulse signal and the second pulse signal to represent gray levels information of the LED. |
| US09609709B2 |
Multi-segment LED components and LED lighting apparatus including the same
An integrated circuit component can include an integrated circuit package and a plurality of terminals provided on the exterior of the integrated circuit package. The terminals are configured to provide electrical connectivity to an interior of the integrated circuit package and a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) segments that includes an LED string in the interior of the package, coupled to the plurality of terminals. |
| US09609707B2 |
Portable lighting devices
A method for controlling a portable lighting device. The device has a switched-mode power supply, a light source, a high frequency switch, a controller controlling the operation of the light source and a user interface for inputting commands to the controller. A DC power source has a negative pole that is connected by only one single electric contact with the lighting device tail. The method for controlling a portable lighting device includes connecting a DC power source, an inductor, a light source, a high frequency switch and a resistor in series, measuring a voltage across the resistor, and controlling the high frequency switch dependent on the voltage measured across the resistor. |
| US09609705B2 |
Switching control circuit, light apparatus comprising the same and switching control method
A switching control circuit includes a switching trigger unit that receives a sensing voltage, which senses a driving current that includes a first and second driving current sections, and that provides a first switching trigger signal based on the sensing voltage in the second current section, an off-time control unit configured to provide a second switching trigger signal in the first driving current section to control a maximum off-time of a driving switching element and a switching control unit configured to turn on the driving switching element based on the first or second switching trigger signal. |
| US09609704B2 |
Load control device having stuck relay detection
A load control device (e.g., a switching device) for controlling power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical device (e.g., a lighting load) may be configured to detect that a relay is stuck closed and attempt to fix the relay. The relay of the load control device may be adapted to be coupled between the source and the electrical device to control the power delivered to the electrical device so as to generate a switched-hot voltage. The load control device may comprise a detect circuit configured to generate a detect signal indicating a magnitude of the switched-hot voltage, and a control circuit configured to monitor the detect signal. The control circuit may be configured to determine that the relay is stuck closed in response to the detect signal, and to control the relay in order to attempt to fix the relay by repeatedly closing and opening the relay. |
| US09609701B2 |
Switch-mode drive sensing of reverse recovery in bipolar junction transistor (BJT)-based power converters
A bipolar junction transistor (BJT) may be used in a power stage DC-to-DC converter, such as a converter in LED-based light bulbs. The power stage may be operated by a controller to maintain a desired current output to the LED load. The controller may operate the power stage by monitoring a start and end of a reverse recovery time of the BJT. Information regarding the start and end of the reverse recovery time may be used in the control of the power stage to improve efficiency of the power stage. |
| US09609697B2 |
Cooktop and method for operating a cooktop
A cooktop is provided that includes heating elements which are combined to a heating zone; a power supply to generate a heating current that operates the heating elements; a switch to open and close a power circuit that includes the power supply and one of the heating elements; and a controller that determines a characteristic variable of the heating current, actuates the switch as a function of a selected power level to operate the heating zone, and activates, in a first operating state, two of the heating elements, which are combined to form the heating zone, in different phases of a heating period. |
| US09609696B2 |
Cooking device
There is provided a cooking device which can easily carry out heating setting when performing heating control according to a set temperature. A cooking device includes a heating unit (4) operable to heat an object to be heated; an operation unit (8) including temperature setting switch (11, 12a, 12b) for setting a heating temperature; a temperature sensor (7) operable to detect a temperature of the object to be heated; and a control unit (5) operable to control the heating unit so that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is equal to the set temperature set by using the temperature setting switch; wherein the control unit automatically sets the cooking mode based on the set temperature. |
| US09609695B2 |
Heat-generating film, and heat-generating product comprising same
The present invention relates to a heat-generating film and to a heat-generating product comprising same. The heat-generating film of the present invention can continuously and stably generate heat even at a low voltage, for example, at a voltage of 12V or lower. In addition, the heat-generating film of the present invention has excellent comfort properties, filling properties, and flexibility. Accordingly, the heat-generating film of the present invention can be applied to a variety of heat-generating products, for example to a heat-generating sheet for a vehicle or for a baby stroller, or to a variety of portable heat-generating products or the like to exhibit superior effects. |
| US09609693B2 |
Heating system and method of testing a semiconductor device using a heating system
A heating system is described for generating heat and bringing heat to a semiconductor device under test. The heating system comprises a conduction heating unit comprising a heating resistor, a thermal contact area for thermally contacting the semiconductor device under test, and a thermally conductive and electrically insulating connection between the heating resistor and the thermal contact area. The heating resistor is operable to generate a user-defined amount of heat and arranged to provide a part of the heat generated by the heating resistor to the thermal contact area via the thermally conductive and electrically insulating connection. It is also described that the heating system may further comprise a convection heating chamber operable to provide a user-defined heat-controlled convection to the semiconductor device under test. A method of testing a semiconductor device using a heating system is also described. |
| US09609691B2 |
Remote radio equipment
An RRH includes a power supply device, an AISG interface, a PA, and a control unit. The PA is operated by a power source with a first voltage or a second voltage that is lower than the first voltage and amplifies a transmission signal. The AISG interface is connected to an antenna control device operated by the power source with the second voltage. The power supply device supplies the power source to the PA and the power source to the antenna control device to the AISG interface. When the antenna control device is operated, the control unit controls such that the power supply device generates the power source with the second voltage, supplies the generated power source to the PA and the antenna control device, and increase power of the transmission signal output from the PA that is operated by the power source with the second voltage. |
| US09609689B2 |
Method and apparatus for self configuration of LTE e-Node Bs
The present invention is a procedure for a self configuring eNB/E-UTRAN. The eNB/E-UTRAN interacts with the Enhanced Packet Core (EPC) of the LTE network in order to complete the mutual authentication task between the eNB and the EPC and other operating procedures in the eNB self configuration phase. |
| US09609680B2 |
Signaling flows and buffer status report for a group in device-to-device broadcast communication
Methods, systems, and devices are described for device-to-device (D2D) wireless communication. A device may transmit an initiation message to a base station indicating that the device desires to initiate a D2D communication session. The device may then receive a response from the base station that includes parameters for configuration of the D2D session. When it has data to send to another device, the device may transmit buffer status report (BSR) to the base station. The base station may respond with a grant of D2D scheduling assignment (SA) configured according to the previously sent parameters. For example, the message may be scrambled with a D2D temporary identity sequence. In some cases, the device may transmit a group identification (ID) code to the base station, and the group ID may be associated with an index, so an SA for that group can be reference by index. |
| US09609679B2 |
Wireless local area communication method and terminal supporting the same
Methods and terminals for sharing content are described. In one method, an application is activated, upon detection of an event for executing the application, on a terminal, and an application screen having at least one content is displayed. Upon detecting a touch input for selecting, at least one content is selected. Upon detecting a touch input on a transmission button on the application screen, the selected at least one content is transmitted to an external terminal. In another method, an application screen having at least one icon for executing function is displayed; a touch input for selecting an icon associated with content to be received from an external terminal is detected; at least one identifier broadcast by the external terminal is displayed; and at least one content is received from the external terminal corresponding to the selected identifier, upon detection of a touch input for selecting at least one identifier. |
| US09609678B2 |
Method and apparatus for asynchronous Direct Link Setup in WLAN system
A method for a wireless local area network, the method including selecting, by an access point (AP), a direct link setup (DLS) channel among a plurality of channels, the DLS channel being used for a communication of a DLS link between a first station and a second station; and transmitting, by the AP, a control frame to the first station and the second station, the control frame including a channel field indicating the DLS channel. |
| US09609676B1 |
Efficient transition from discovery to link establishment
A method includes receiving, via a first communication interface of a first station, a probe request signal transmitted by a second station, and determining, at the first station, a connectivity type to be used in establishing a wireless communication link between the first and second stations. The determined connectivity type is associated with a different, second communication interface of the first station. The method also includes generating, at the first station, a probe response signal, at least in part by generating a first field within the probe response signal. The first field specifies an address of the second communication interface. The method also includes transmitting, via the first communication interface, the probe response signal to the second station. The address of the second communication interface specified in the first field is useable by the second station to establish the wireless communication link between the first and second stations. |
| US09609675B2 |
Method and apparatus for monitoring control channel
Provided are a method and an apparatus for monitoring a control channel in a sub-frame including a plurality of orthogonal frequency division multiplexings (OFDMs) in a time division duplex (TDD)-based wireless communication system. A wireless device monitors a downlink control channel in at least one OFDM symbol after an OFDM symbol receives a primary synchronization signal (PSS) in the sub-frame. |
| US09609674B2 |
Machine-to-machine domain proxy
A node of a first machine-to-machine service provider, M2M SP, is provided. The node of the first M2M SP communicates with a gateway node and a node of a second M2M SP. At least one communication interface configured to receive, from the gateway node, a register message for registering a service capability layer, SCL, of the gateway node with the second NSCL. A processor configured to transmit the register message to the second NSCL and receive a response indicating whether the second NSCL registered the SCL. If the second NSCL registered the SCL, generating a resource instructing the node of the first M2M SP to proxy traffic of the SCL. |
| US09609673B2 |
Communication apparatus, control method, and storage medium
A communication apparatus according to the present invention includes a storage unit that stores, when the communication apparatus is connected to a first wireless network at a predetermined position, information about the predetermined position, a detection unit that detects whether the communication apparatus exists within a predetermined range including the predetermined position, and a transmission unit that transmits predetermined information, for connecting another communication apparatus to the first wireless network, to the another communication apparatus using a second communication system with a lower power consumption than a first communication system used in the first wireless network in response to the detection unit detecting that the communication apparatus exists within the predetermined range. |
| US09609670B2 |
Address space partitioning and filtering for discretionary wireless connection response
A system and method for providing wireless communications between a medical controller hub and an implant node are disclosed. The hub transmits signals to facilitate communication connections with the node. The signals include connection invitation polls with identification parameters. A node monitors the hub's transmissions for the connection invitation polls. When a poll is detected, the node compares the identification parameters to a list of preferred identification values. If the received identification parameter is on the preferred list, and the node and hub are not already connected, then the node responds to the connection invitation poll. If the received identification parameter is not on the preferred list, then the node continues to monitor hub transmissions for other connection invitation polls that include identification parameters that are on the preferred list. |
| US09609668B2 |
Communication device and method for communicating data using a common identifier
A communications device, communicating data via a mobile radio network, includes a transmitter/receiver communicating data to/from a mobile radio network via a wireless access interface, and a module storing information identifying the communications device to the mobile radio network, the stored information including a same common identifier in each of an associated group of communications devices, the common identifier to establish communications sessions to communicate data to/from any of the associated communications devices. The group of communications devices may communicate machine type communications for a particular application, for example disposed in a vehicle, to report certain parameters. With spatial proximity of the communications devices, each can receive control plane signalling data and accordingly communication of signalling data is as if broadcast to a local environment in which the group of communications devices are disposed, to save communications bandwidth proportional to the number of devices in the group. |
| US09609665B2 |
Method and apparatus for channel access in wireless LAN system
The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly, to a method and an apparatus for accessing a channel in a wireless LAN system. According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method for performing channel access by a station (STA) of a wireless communication system comprises: a step of receiving, from an access point (AP), information about the time window which does not allow channel access of a traffic indication map (TIM) mode STA; and a step of performing channel access based on the time window. In the event that the STA is a non-TIM mode STA, the channel access is performed in the time window. In the event that the STA is a TIM mode STA, the channel access is performed in the time interval indicated by the TIM, excluding the time window. |
| US09609661B2 |
Wireless communication device, wireless communication system, and wireless communication method
There is provided a wireless communication device that may prevent a degradation of QoS of communications caused by a schedule change. A wireless communication device in a wireless communication system that transits and receives a traffic stream using a millimeter wave includes a schedule generator, a transmitter, and a receiver, the schedule generator generating a schedule for at least one wireless station, which communicates with the wireless communication device, to transmit a plurality of traffic streams, the transmitter transmitting the generated schedule to the wireless station using a broadcast frame, the receiver receiving QoS requests transmitted by the respective wireless stations, each of the QoS requests including a current MCS index and a range of available MCS indexes for transmitting a traffic stream. In accordance with the QoS requests received by the receiver the schedule generator sets a period for periodically allocating respective transmission time periods of the plurality of traffic streams, and generates a schedule in which, in each period, an interval is provided between transmission time periods of the plurality of traffic streams, the transmission time periods being next to each other. |
| US09609660B2 |
System and method for adaptive downlink scheduler for wireless networks
The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable media for efficient scheduling of downlink data traffic at a base station. The method may comprise: receiving one or more downlink data packets from a second protocol layer. Thereafter, the one or more downlink packets may be classified into one or more categories of packets based on transmission type and radio transmission state of the one or more downlink packets. Further, one or more first packets from each of the one or more categories of packets may be scheduled based on a pre-determined priority order of the one or more categories of packets and a predetermined packet transmission share associated with each of the one or more categories of packets. Finally, the one or more first packets are transmitted from the one or more categories of packets in a transmission time interval. |
| US09609659B2 |
Multiplexing of control and data with varying power offsets in a SC-FDMA system
Systems and methodologies are described that facilitate multiplexing of control information and data for common transmission in a localized FDM wireless communication system. Localized FDM transmission of control and data channels can be achieved by, for example, multiplexing control information with data and transmitting the control information and data using resources and transmission schemes specified for transmission of the data. To ensure the reliability of control information multiplexed with data, a power offset can be applied to the control information to provide varying protection levels for the control information based on properties of the data resources into which it is embedded in order to maintain a predetermined signal quality for the control information independent of the data resources. |
| US09609656B2 |
Method for adjusting resource configuration, radio network controller, and base station
The present application provides a method for adjusting resource configuration, a radio network controller, and a base station. The method includes sending configuration information of an uplink common enhanced dedicated transport channel E-DCH resource pool to a base station, where the configuration information of an uplink common E-DCH resource pool includes information of a first resource pool to which a first transmission time interval corresponds and information of a second resource pool to which a second transmission time interval corresponds. Indication information is sent by the base station according to usage of at least one of the resource pools. Configuration of the first resource pool can be adjusted according to the indication information. In embodiments of the present application, the range of the resource pool can be dynamically adjusted in the case that a plurality of transmission time intervals coexists. |
| US09609653B2 |
Spectral stitching method to increase instantaneous bandwidth in vector signal generators
Embodiments are described of devices and methods for processing a signal using a plurality of vector signal generators (VSGs). A digital signal may be provided to a plurality of signal paths, each of which may process a respective frequency band of the signal, the respective frequency bands having regions of overlap. The gain and phase of each signal path may be adjusted such that continuity of phase and magnitude are preserved through the regions of overlap. The adjustment of gain and phase may be accomplished by a complex multiply with a complex calibration constant. The calibration constant may be determined for each signal path by comparing the gain and phase of one or more calibration tones generated within each region of overlap. Each signal path may comprise a VSG to convert the respective signal to an analog signal, which may be combined to obtain a composite signal. |
| US09609652B2 |
Frequency band adaptive wireless communication
A system, apparatus and method is disclosed for multiband wireless communication. Frequency bands and/or transmission formats are identified as available within a range for wireless communication. The system evaluates signal quality metrics for each frequency band and selects a communication method based on the evaluation. Multiple frequency bands and communication methods can be utilized by the system such that a combination of licensed, unlicensed, semilicensed, and overlapped frequency bands can be simultaneously used for communication. The system monitors communications and can report link performance for adaptive control of the selected communication methods. |
| US09609651B1 |
Exchanging uplink and downlink carrier frequencies
A wireless air interface may be defined for communication with a wireless communication device (WCD). The wireless air interface may include paired low-frequency channels and paired high-frequency channels, where the paired low-frequency channels include a low-frequency downlink channel and a low-frequency uplink channel, and where the paired high-frequency channels include a high-frequency downlink channel and a high-frequency uplink channel. It may be determined that, on at least one of the downlink or uplink channels, the WCD is experiencing a quality of wireless coverage below a threshold wireless coverage value. Possibly in response to the WCD experiencing the quality of wireless coverage below the threshold wireless coverage value, the downlink and uplink channels may be reconfigured so that the paired low-frequency channels include two low-frequency uplink channels and the paired high-frequency channels include two high-frequency downlink channels. |
| US09609650B2 |
Adaptive uplink/downlink timeslot assignment in a hybrid wireless time division multiple access/code division multiple access communication system
A method and apparatus for adaptive uplink/downlink resource assignment may include determining uplink interference associated with each of several uplink resources. A wireless network device may produce an uplink list with values for the uplink resources. The device may compare a downlink power level to at least one threshold for each of the downlink resources, wherein at least two of the downlink resources are each associated with a different portion of a frame. The device may produce a downlink list, which may be a bit stream providing an indication, for each downlink resource, indicating whether each of the downlink resources have a downlink power level which is less than or equal to the at least one threshold. The device may send the uplink and downlink lists and may receive an uplink list and a downlink list from each of several neighboring wireless network devices. |
| US09609645B2 |
Method for transmitting downlink control channel in a mobile communications system and a method for mapping the control channel to physical resource using block interleaver in a mobile communications system
A method for transmitting a downlink control channel in a mobile communication system and a method for mapping the control channel to physical resources using a block interleaver are provided. In order to transmit a downlink control channel in a mobile communication system, information bits are modulated to generate one or more modulation symbols according to a specific modulation scheme, the modulation symbols are interleaved using a block interleaver, and the interleaved modulated symbols are mapped to resource elements allocated for transmission of at least one control channel in a subframe, thereby transmitting the at least one control channel. |
| US09609642B2 |
Control channel resource transmission method, user equipment and base station
Embodiments of the present invention provide a control channel resource transmission method including: obtaining, by a user equipment, a configuration parameter in a candidate control channel set according to a preset protocol and/or higher-layer signaling sent by a base station, where the higher-layer signaling is used to notify the configuration parameter; determining an antenna port according to the obtained configuration parameter; receiving, by using the antenna port, a control channel or a control channel element sent by the base station; and determining, by the base station, the antenna port according to the same configuration parameter as that of the user equipment, and sending, by using the antenna port, the control channel or the control channel element to the user equipment. The embodiments of the present invention are applicable to control channel resource transmission. |
| US09609636B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting control information
A method of transmitting uplink control information at a communication apparatus configured with a plurality of cells including a first cell and a second cell in a wireless communication system is provided. A first set of one or more Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) signals is received within M downlink subframes through the first cell, where M≧1. A second set of zero or more PDSCH signals is received within N downlink subframes through the second cell, where N≧1. Acknowledgment information is transmitted on an uplink subframe. The acknowledgment information includes acknowledgment information for the first set and acknowledgment information for the second set. A PDSCH signal without a corresponding Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) signal is present among the first set. |
| US09609633B2 |
Method for communicating data using bandwidth request channel, user equipment and base station conducting the same
The present invention relates to a data transmitting method using a bandwidth request channel and a user terminal and a base station conducting the same. The present invention provides a communication method by a user terminal which transmits data to a base station via a bandwidth request channel, including: generating a preamble for bandwidth request; determining whether a message for the bandwidth request is generated; generating a first signal value to be operated with the preamble when it is determined that the message is generated and generating a second signal value to be operated with the preamble when it is determined that the message is not generated; operating the preamble with the generated first signal value or second signal value; and transmitting a signal including the operated preamble to the base station, thereby reducing overhead occurring when the bandwidth request information is demodulated. |
| US09609631B2 |
Wireless communication apparatuses and related methods
An embodiment of the invention provides a method to be performed by a first wireless communication apparatus in communicating with a second wireless communication apparatus. First, the first wireless communication apparatus determines whether a plurality of sub-channels are simultaneously available for the second wireless communication apparatus. Then, the first wireless communication apparatus simultaneously uses the sub-channels to transmit a plurality of divergent copies of a data segment to the second wireless communication apparatus, respectively, if the sub-channels are simultaneously available for the second wireless communication apparatus. |
| US09609630B2 |
Uplink antenna selection device and method
An uplink antenna selection device and method are provided. The device comprises: at least two antennas; at least one antenna feed connected to each antenna, each antenna configured to transmit data on a respective given transmission band paired with a respective associated receive band; and, a processor, in communication with the at least one antenna feed. The processor is configured to: for each of the antennas, determine a respective quality-of-signal (QOS) parameter of at least one respective receive band adjacent to the respective given transmission band, the at least one respective receive band different from the respective associated receive band paired with the respective given transmission band; and control the at least one antenna feed to select one of the antennas for transmitting data on the respective given transmission band based on the respective QOS parameter of the at least one respective receive band for each of the antennas. |
| US09609626B1 |
Cellular paging via WLAN
Systems and methods for routing pages to cellular phones (UE) not connected to a cellular network, but connected to a wireless local area network (I-WLAN), are disclosed. The system can route cellular pages to disconnected cellular devices using 3GPP AAA components, such as a Third Generation Partnership Project authentication, authorization, and accounting (3GPP AAA) server. The system can route pages via a home location register (HLR) connected to the I-WLAN or a mobile switching center (MSC) connected to the I-WLAN. The system can determine an appropriate MSC based on proximity of the MSC to the last known location of the UE, for example, or based on the MSC with the lowest utilization rates. The system can send a page to the UE via the I-WLAN instructing the UE to reconnect to the cellular network. The system can then send cellular data to the UE using the cellular network. |
| US09609622B2 |
Provision of a customised alerting notification
A customized alerting notification is provided to a user equipment (2) in a wireless communications network comprising a first radio access network (26) and a second radio access network (24). A first message (6, 18, 20) is received from the user equipment at a core network server (4, 16), of the first radio access network on attachment of the user equipment to the first radio access network, the message comprising an indication of a customized alerting notification capability of the user equipment in the second radio access network. In response to initiation of handover of the user equipment from the first radio access network to the second radio access network during an alerting phase of a call initiated from the user equipment using the first radio access network, a second message (12, 22) comprising the indication is sent from the core network server of the first radio access network to a mobility controller (10) coupled with the second radio access network. FIG. 3 to accompany the abstract. |
| US09609621B2 |
Tracking warning, and blocking unsafe texting in moving vehicles including telematics systems
System and methods are described to track and warn a person suspected of texting while driving, or alternately to block texting for drivers of moving vehicles. The position and speed of cell phones, and a GPS-enabled telematics system if present, are compared with those of other GPS-enabled devices in the vicinity. If the position and speed of a phone track that of one or more neighboring phones or a telematics system, it is assumed that a cell phone user may under certain conditions be texting while driving. For circumstances where persons suspected to be in the same vehicle utilize different service providers, parameters such any of cell phone position, velocity, and direction of travel are time-stamped and then compared. Texting is detected emanating directly from cell phones, or from a telematics system in a vehicle, or via a WiFi hotspot of a cell phone in the vehicle. |
| US09609618B2 |
System and method for hand-in disambiguation using user equipment WiFi location in a network environment
An example method is provided in one example embodiment and includes receiving a handover request from a first radio network to handover a user equipment (UE) to a second radio network, wherein the handover request includes an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI) for a user associated with the UE and a pseudo cell identifier (ID); determining a target channel configuration for the UE using the pseudo cell ID; querying a third radio network using the user IMSI to determine a location of the UE, wherein at least one access point in the third radio network is in communication with the UE; and selecting a particular target access point in the second radio network for handover of the UE based, at least in part, on the location of the UE, the target channel configuration for the UE and a location of the particular target access point. |
| US09609607B2 |
Main synchronization sequence design method for global covering multi-beam satellite LTE
Disclosed is a main synchronization sequence design method for global covering multi-beam satellite LTE, comprising the follow steps: extending a standard Zadoff-Chu sequence to a generalized Zadoff-Chu sequence so as to obtain an initial candidate main synchronization sequence set of more candidate sequences; gradually narrowing down the candidate main synchronization sequence set according to a selection standard of a main synchronization sequence to obtain a final candidate main synchronization sequence set; and obtaining a main synchronization sequence set with optimal eclectic performance and complexity from the final candidate main synchronization sequence set. According to the present invention, a main synchronization sequence with optimal eclectic performance and calculation complexity can be designed for a global covering same-frequency networking multi-beam satellite LTE system. |
| US09609606B2 |
Method for integrating network subscribers into an ad-hoc network and an associated ad-hoc network
A method for integrating network subscribers into a time-synchronized ad-hoc network forms individual clusters in each case of regionally adjacent network subscribers and implements a time synchronization of the network subscribers within each cluster. Following this, a network subscriber at the periphery of each cluster is selected in order to identify at least one network subscriber to be integrated into the respective cluster. Finally, the subscribers of the respective cluster are time-synchronized with every identified network subscriber. |
| US09609603B2 |
Communication control method, communication system, and management server
A management server in a network including a first transmitting device that communicates with a first receiving device and a second transmitting device that communicates with a second receiving device. The management server includes a network interface that receives a parameter corresponding to a level of improvement of communication quality at the second receiving device, and a processor that calculates an allowable interference amount at the first receiving device based on the parameter. |
| US09609602B2 |
Always-on bearer for small data transfers in LTE systems
When a UE in an LTE system enters the RRC_IDLE state, only the S5/S8 EPS bearer context is retained, and the S1-U, S1-AP and radio bearers are released. These bearers have to be re-established on per UE basis when the UE returns to RRC_CONNECTED state. A number of UE applications may send small data frequently, which causes the UE to toggle between IDLE and CONNECTED states. This leads to a great deal of signaling overhead as the radio bearer and the S1-U bearer must be frequently re-established as the UE transitions between IDLE to CONNECTED states. Described herein are methods and systems that provide an always-on S1-U bearer to reduce this signaling overhead. |
| US09609592B2 |
Operating user equipments in a wireless communication network
A method for operating a first user equipment in a wireless communication network, a method for operating a second user equipment in a wireless communication network, a method for operating a wireless communication network, and a wireless communication system are described. |
| US09609590B2 |
Eco-friendly power over ethernet
The present disclosure discloses a method and network device for providing an eco-friendly PoE mechanism in a WLAN. Specifically, a network device determines that an access point (AP) is connected to two or more network devices that include functionality to power the first AP, selects a first network device and causes the first network device to power the AP instead of the second network device, which is currently powering the AP. Moreover, the network device disables power supply on a first port of the second network device that is connected to the AP, causing the first network device to supply power to the AP via a second port of the first network device that is connected to the AP. Subsequent to the first network device supplying power to the AP via the second port, the network device enables the power supply on the first port of the second network device. |
| US09609589B2 |
Apparatus and method for processing downlink signal
An apparatus includes a downlink signal differentiating unit is configured to receive a downlink signal and differentiate a type of the downlink signal. A public baseband processing unit is connected to the downlink signal differentiating unit and is configured to receive a public downlink signal obtained by the downlink signal differentiating unit by the differentiating, to encode and modulate the public downlink signal to obtain a public baseband signal, and to transmit the public baseband signal to a carrier unit. A traffic baseband processing unit is connected to the downlink signal differentiating unit, and is configured to receive a traffic downlink signal obtained by the downlink signal differentiating unit by the differentiating, to encode and modulate the traffic downlink signal to obtain a traffic baseband signal, and to transmit the traffic baseband signal to the carrier unit. |
| US09609583B2 |
Method, system and electronic apparatus for searching nearby apparatus
A method, a system and an electronic apparatus for searching nearby apparatuses are proposed. The method includes: searching at least one first apparatus belonging to a first subnet which the electronic apparatus belongs to, and accordingly generating a first list; scanning at least one access point (AP) near the electronic apparatus, and accordingly generating a first AP list; uploading the first AP list to a server, and receiving a second list from the server, where the second list includes at least one second apparatus, and a similarity between a second AP list of each second apparatus and the first AP list is higher than a predetermined threshold; and uniting the first list and the second list to generate a pairing list including at least one apparatus to be paired. |
| US09609577B1 |
Mobile device security
Techniques for providing friction-free transactions using geolocation and user identifiers are described herein. These techniques may ascertain a user's location based on a location of a mobile device. A transaction between the user and a merchant may be completed with zero or minimal input from the user based on the geolocation of the mobile device and the user identifiers. In some implementations, a transaction initiated earlier is completed when the mobile device arrives at the merchant. Additionally, a parent-child or similar relationship may be established between multiple devices. Security on the mobile device based may be provided by biometric identification and calculation of variance from regular movement patterns. Advertisements may be sent to the mobile device based on bids from merchants near to the mobile device. Promotions may be sent to the mobile device when more than a threshold number of mobile devices are located at the same merchant. |
| US09609574B2 |
Apparatus and method for accessing a back-end service
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a first software defined network element is created in local communication with a gateway of a core network portion of a mobility network. Establishment of first logical network connection facilitated between the first software defined network element and a second network element in local communication with a remotely accessible system, such as a back-end system of an enterprise data center or cloud service provider. A request from a mobile device serviced by the mobility network is received for access to a service of the remotely accessible system. The request and/or a translation of the request is forwarded to the second network element by way of the first logical network connection. The second network element forwards the translated request to the remotely accessible system. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09609573B2 |
Path control method, wireless communication system, path control device, and non-transitory computer readable medium
Provided are a path control method, a wireless communication system, a path control device, and a non-transitory computer readable medium which are capable of securing efficient traffic accommodation, while maintaining communication quality. The path control method controls a communication path by selecting one path from among a plurality of path candidates with respect to a specific piece of traffic in a network constituted of a radio link provided with an adaptive modulation function. A requested band of the piece of traffic is compared with an allocatable band allocatable to a first path candidate that is included in the plurality of path candidates and that satisfies a degree of stability requested by the piece of traffic by a first modulation method. As a result of the comparison, when the requested band of the piece of traffic is larger than the allocatable band, a penalty cost due to transmission using a band usable by a second modulation method having a lower degree of stability is given to the first path candidate so that the first path candidate is less likely to be selected as compared with the other path candidates for selecting one path from among the plurality of path candidates. |
| US09609569B2 |
High-speed mobile broadband access by slewing between vehicular narrowbeam transceiver and fixed transceivers along prescribed path
In one embodiment, a method comprises: establishing a first broadband data link between a first mobile narrowbeam transceiver positioned on a vehicle and a first fixed narrowbeam transceiver mounted along a prescribed path of the vehicle; and switching from the first broadband data link, by the first mobile narrowbeam transceiver, to a second broadband data link with a second fixed narrowbeam transceiver mounted along the prescribed path after the first fixed narrowbeam transceiver, enabling the vehicle to maintain continuous broadband access to a wide area network via a prescribed sequence of the fixed narrowbeam transceivers along the prescribed path. |
| US09609567B2 |
Multihomed communication device
A method and a user equipment (UE) for routing a data packet in a wireless communication network are discussed. The method according to an embodiment includes establishing, by the UE, a packet data network (PDN) connection via a 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) cellular network; obtaining, by the UE from an Access Network Discovery and Selection Function (ANDSF) server, a routing rule including information on an access point name (APN) and a priority of the APN, the APN identifying a packet data network (PDN) connection; and performing, by the UE, an offload function by selecting a gateway via the 3GPP cellar network based on the priority of the APN. The routing rule comprises identification information in the form of an IP 5-tuple allowing the UE to route the data packet. |
| US09609565B2 |
Mechanism to enable WiFi offload based on power preference of user equipment
In typical UEs, scanning for WiFi access points (APs) can consume a significant amount of power. This scanning occurs when the UE is connected through the cellular network, but does not occur when the UE is connected to a WiFi network. As a result, offloading a UE from a cellular network to a WiFi network can allow the UE to conserve power. An issue with existing cellular networks is that the UE cannot inform a cellular network that the UE is running low on power, and therefore cannot direct the cellular network to offload the UE for power conservation reasons. A technique discussed herein allows the UE to indicate its power saving needs to the cellular network. In response, the cellular network can lower (or raise) a particular threshold, so that the UE now exceeds (or no longer exceeds) the threshold, and initiates offloading. |
| US09609558B2 |
Restoring connectivity of a user device to an LTE network
User devices may search for cellular networks that provide the best available service, such as Long-Term Evolution (“LTE”) networks. If such a network is unavailable, the user device may connect to a different network, such as a Code Division Multiple Access 2000 1X network. When connected to the 1X network, the user device may not attempt to search for the LTE network unless the user device enters an idle mode, even if the LTE network becomes available while connected to the 1X network. Systems and/or methods, described herein, may “force” the user device into idle mode, while the user device is actively communicating via the 1X network, so that the user device may search for the LTE network. Forcing the user device into idle mode may include interrupting communications, which may include causing traffic, output by network applications of the user device, to not be transmitted from the user device. |
| US09609556B1 |
Facilitating network transfer based on network conditions
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media, for facilitating providing network transfer messages based on network conditions are provided. In embodiments, one or more network-condition data that indicate a network condition of a first wireless network being used by a mobile device are received. The network-condition data are utilized to determine a transmission time attribute that indicates a time or a frequency at which to transmit a set of network transfer messages that provide an indication for the mobile device to seek a second wireless network. The set of network transfer messages are transmitted in accordance with the determined transmission time attribute. |
| US09609554B2 |
Methods, apparatuses, related computer program product and data structure for deciding on a signaling scheme for handover
A first method (and related first apparatus) includes transmitting, in a handover request message, an indication of a first protocol version; a second method (and related second apparatus) includes receiving, in the handover request message, the indication, deciding, based on the received indication and a second protocol version, on a value of an information element included in a handover request acknowledgement message to be transmitted, the information element indicating usage of a first or second signaling scheme, and transmitting the handover request acknowledgement message including the information element; and in the first method receiving the handover request acknowledgement message including the information element; and a third method (and related third apparatus) including receiving the handover command message including the information element, and configuring according to one of the first and second signaling schemes indicated by the information element. |
| US09609549B2 |
Dynamic network load rebalancing
A network device includes a communication interface. A processing system is coupled to the communication interface. A memory system is coupled to the processing system and includes instructions that, when executed by the processing system, cause the processing system to receive first traffic though the communication interface and forward the first traffic downstream though the communication interface using a first path. The memory system also includes instructions that, when executed by the processing system, cause the processing system receive a congestion notification from a downstream network device through the communication interface and determine whether the congestion notification is associated with the first traffic. In response to the first traffic being associated with the congestion notification, the processor determines whether a second path exists for forwarding subsequent traffic that is associated with the congestion notification downstream though the communication interface. |
| US09609546B2 |
Systems and methods for electronic news gathering
A system comprising: at least one network modem configured to communicate wirelessly with at least one base station; and a subsystem configured to provide data packets to the at least one network modem to be transmitted wirelessly to the at least one base station, the subsystem comprising at least one video encoder configured to receive at least one input video signal and provide at least some of the data packets based on the at least one input video signal, wherein: the at least one network modem is further configured to provide network condition information to the subsystem; and the subsystem is further configured to adjust at least one operating parameter of the at least one video encoder based at least in part on the network condition information received from the at least one network modem. |
| US09609545B2 |
Communication system and base station device
In a wireless base station device, a PDCP buffer unit temporarily stores data sent from a core network device for the purpose of sending the data to a mobile station device. A data measurement unit measures the volume of data stored in a PDCP buffer unit. On the basis of a measurement value of the data volume measured by the data measurement unit, the congestion state determination unit determines whether or not the PDCP buffer unit is in a congestion state. In the core network device, a sending data storage unit stores data to be sent to the wireless base station device. On the basis of a result of the determination by the congestion state determination unit, a transmission/reception unit sends the data stored in the sending data storage unit to the wireless base station device. In this way, loss of data communicated between the communication devices is reduced. |
| US09609544B2 |
Device-assisted services for protecting network capacity
A system comprising a processor of a communications device configured to monitor a network service usage activity of the communications device in network communication, classify the network service usage activity for differential network access control for protecting network capacity, and associate the network service usage activity with a network service usage control policy based on a classification of the network service usage activity to facilitate differential network access control for protecting network capacity; and a memory coupled to the processor and configured to provide the processor with instructions. |
| US09609525B1 |
Beacon placement suggestion based on target region
One embodiment provides a system for suggesting placement of beacons within a venue. The system performs operations including receiving a floor plan for a venue, receiving user-specified input identifying a defined area within the floor plan to target, and determining an arrangement of beacons for providing beacon coverage for the defined area. A total number of beacons to include within the defined area is determined. For each beacon, a corresponding location within the defined area to position the beacon at is also determined. The arrangement of beacons is determined based on historical location data for the venue, user-specified preferences for the venue, signal strength of the beacons, and available power levels for the beacons. |
| US09609523B2 |
Relaying operation between base stations using white spaces in wireless access system
Disclosed is a wireless communication system using white spaces and a base station that does not have its own backhaul, starts wireless communications without radiating radio waves of frequencies causing interference with primary users. A BS being in isolation starts a wireless communication with a CPE, connected to the internet, so as to access a database to acquire a list of frequencies available for transmission. The BS uses a predetermined frequency to perform the wireless communication with the CPE, and acquires, via this wireless communication, the list of frequencies available for transmission. Thereafter, the BS performs wireless communications with the CPE and with another CPE on the basis of the acquired list of frequencies available for transmission. The BS can hold, in advance, information of the predetermined frequency for which it has been estimated that the BS will cause no interference with the wireless communications of the primary users. |
| US09609519B2 |
Cloud-based site-to-site virtual private network
A method and system for virtualization of access points are disclosed. According to certain embodiments, access points at virtual private networks can act as soft VPN gateways. |
| US09609511B2 |
Determining a user based on features
A signal may be emitted by an emitter or transducer. The signal may be sensed by a sensor, such as an accelerometer. Features of a body part or portion may be one of detected, extracted, or constructed from the sensed signal. It may be determined whether the body part or portion matches that of a user, such as an authorized user, based on the features. |
| US09609504B2 |
Node and method for monitoring a visitor location register registration of a wireless device
Example embodiments presented herein are directed towards a Mobility Management Entity (MME) and a Visitor Location Register (VLR) node, as well as corresponding methods therein, for monitoring a VLR node registration of a wireless device The MME is currently serving. |
| US09609491B2 |
Server apparatus, communication apparatus, and communication method
A server apparatus, a communication apparatus, and a communication method are disclosed. Communication terminals forming a group are capable of performing push-to-talk group communication through the server apparatus. In reception of a call setting request from a first communication terminal of the group by the receiver, when the group includes a second communication terminal to which call setting fails, the transmitter transmits, to a communication terminal of the group, an instruction to execute a discovery processing of discovering a communication partner terminal capable of performing a direct communication with the communication terminal without passing through the server apparatus. When a result of the discovery processing reveals that a third communication terminal that has received the instruction from the server apparatus is capable of performing the direct communication with the second communication terminal, call setting between the server apparatus and the second communication terminal is performed through the third communication terminal. |
| US09609486B2 |
Location and time-aware systems and methods for mobile user context detection
Methods and systems for providing situational user contexts to mobile applications, allowing for delivery of the relevant content without exposing mobile users' locations and other personal data. A plurality of space-time contexts (STCs) are stored in computer memory, with each STC representing a situational environment as a function of location and time. A mobile user device is associated with at least one of the STCs based on, for example, the location of the device and the current time. The associated STCs are provided to an application interested in delivering context-specific data to the user of the mobile user device. |
| US09609483B2 |
System for characterizing geographical locations based on multi sensors anonymous data sources
System and method for characterizing a geographical location by finding the behavioral patterns of groups of users of mobile devices being in the vicinity of the geographical location. Accordingly, after an examined Point of Interest is determined, signaling data related to the users is aggregated over a limited period of time, from the cellular network they use. The location, including change in the location of the users, is continuously calculated and cross-checked with anonymous multi-sensors with data records from external data sources. Then the mobility patterns of users are derived and the users are classified to groups according to the cross-checking results. Finally, the geographical location is characterized according to the mobility patterns and the classification. |
| US09609479B1 |
Geo-fenced event alerts
A method, computer program product, and computer system is provided. A processor identifies an event based, at least in part, on a first news article. A processor determines a first area of impact for the event based, at least in part, on the first news article. Responsive to a determination that a current location of a first user is within the first area of impact, a processor sends a first message to the first user based, at least in part, on the first news article. |
| US09609467B2 |
System and method for pairing a plurality of wireless devices
Various embodiments of an invention for pairing a plurality of wireless devices using wireless communications is disclosed. A method for pairing a plurality of devices comprises attenuating a pairing signal emitted from a wireless device within a pairing enclosure during a pairing procedure. A power level of the pairing signal that is emitted through the pairing enclosure is received at a pairing signal receiver. The pairing procedure is permitted to continue when the power level of the pairing signal is less than a predetermined power level. |
| US09609466B2 |
Guide segment identification
An identification apparatus is provided herein. The identification apparatus may include an identification mechanism coupled to a first guide segment and a reader mechanism coupled to second guide segment. The reader mechanism may receive a set of data of the identification mechanism via a proximity connectivity method. The reader mechanism may communicate the set of data to a controller. |
| US09609465B2 |
Multi-role Bluetooth device and Bluetooth connection method thereof
The present invention relates to a multi-role Bluetooth device and more particularly to a multi-role Bluetooth handset. The multi-role Bluetooth device stores a plurality of SDPs (Service Discovery Protocols), and establishes Bluetooth connection with an electronic device by one of SDPs. The multi-role Bluetooth device can establish Bluetooth connection with the electronic device by a first SDP, and transmit and/or receive data to the electronic device each other via Bluetooth connection. Furthermore, the multi-role Bluetooth device also can establish Bluetooth connection with the electronic device by a second SDP, and transmit a control signal to the electronic device via Bluetooth connection to control the electronic device to execute particular function thereof. |
| US09609463B2 |
Structure of mobile terminal operating in a mobile communication system supporting device to device communication and operation method therefor
A mobile terminal in a mobile communication system supporting device to device (D2D) communication, and a method for operating the mobile terminal are provided. The terminal includes a first radio frequency (RF) chain configured to transmit a mobile communication signal and a second RF chain configured to receive a mobile communication signal, for mobile communication with a base station, a switching unit including a plurality of switches configured to establish transmission and reception paths in the first and second RF chains, and a controller configured to control switching of the switching unit to establish transmission and reception paths of a D2D communication signal for D2D communication by combining a part of the first RF chain with a part of the second RF chain. The combination of the parts of the first and second RF chains is different according to a D2D communication frequency band. |
| US09609461B2 |
Relay scheme between narrow frequency band and broad frequency band devices
Methods, systems, and devices are described for improving uplink communications of machine type communication (MTC) devices. In some embodiments, an MTC device may perform a discovery operation on a first narrow frequency band, establish a first communication link with a discovered relay device on a second narrow frequency band, and transmit MTC data on the second narrow frequency band to the discovered relay device to be relayed to a third device on a second communication link on a broad frequency band. In another embodiment, a first device may participate in a discovery operation with a second device. The first device may establish a communication link with the second device on a first narrow frequency band and receive data from the second device on a second narrow frequency band. The first device may relay the data to a third device over a second communication link on a broad frequency band. |
| US09609451B2 |
Multi-rate system for audio processing
A multi-rate audio processing system and method provides real-time measurement and processing of amplitude/phase changes in the transition band of the lowest frequency subband caused by the audio processing that can be used to apply amplitude/phase compensation to the higher subband(s). Tone signals may be injected into the transition band to provide strong tonal content for measurement and processing. The real-time measurement and compensation adapts to time-varying amplitude/phase changes regardless of the source of the change (e.g. non-linear time-varying linear or user control parameters) and provides universal applicability for any linear audio processing. |
| US09609447B2 |
Audio jack insertion/removal fault detection
This document discusses, among other things, circuits and methods for providing an indication of an impedance between a detecting pin and a first signal pin of an audio socket using first and second comparators to, among other things, determine if moisture is present in the audio socket. If moisture is present in the audio socket, communication between an audio processing unit and the audio socket can be disabled. |
| US09609444B2 |
Sound processors having contamination resistant control panels and implantable cochlear stimulation systems including the same
Sound processors and systems including sound processors are disclosed. |
| US09609443B2 |
In-the-ear hearing aid having combined antennas
An in-the-ear hearing aid having a first end and a second end, includes: a microphone; a printed circuit board; a receiver; a battery having a first side and a second side, where the battery is located at the second end; one or more wireless communication units; a first antenna interconnected with one of the one or more wireless communication units, wherein the first antenna is located at the second end; and a second antenna located at the second end, wherein the second antenna is located closer to the second side of the battery than the first side; wherein the printed circuit board is located closer to the first side of the battery than the second side; and wherein the first antenna is fed from the printed circuit board, and comprises an antenna part that is located closer to the second side of the battery than the first side. |
| US09609440B2 |
Template for implanting a housing of a hearing instrument
The invention relates to a template for implanting a housing of an implantable unit of a partially implantable hearing instrument, comprising a template plate comprising an implant position marking opening and a template position indicating element which extends substantially normal with regard to the surface of the template plate, wherein the implant position marking opening is designed to mark the position of a receptacle to be created in the patient's temporal bone for receiving an elevated housing positioning portion of the housing, and wherein the template position indicating element is a projection designed to be seen or felt by a surgeon through the patient's skin when the template plate is positioned at the patient's skull to mark the position of said receptacle. |
| US09609439B2 |
Method of detecting sound using a micro-electro-mechanical system optical microphone
A micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) optical sensor, method of detecting sound using the MEMS optical sensor and method of manufacturing. The MEMS optical sensor including a substrate having a base portion and a vertically extending support portion. The sensor further including a top plate having a compliant membrane configured to vibrate in response to acoustic waves, the top plate connected to the support portion and having a reflective surface. The sensor also includes a back plate connected to the support portion, the back plate having a grating portion positioned below the reflective surface portion and a base plate connected to the support portion at a position below the back plate. A light emitter, a light detector and circuitry operable to tilt the top plate and the back plate with respect to the base plate so as to direct the reflected laser light toward the light detector are further provided. |
| US09609437B2 |
Diaphragms for loudspeaker drive units
A diaphragm for a loudspeaker drive unit or for a microphone includes a rigid dome-shaped member having a thickness that varies from a first thicker thickness at a first location at the periphery of the dome-shaped member to a second thinner thickness at a second location, which is nearer to the center of the dome-shaped member. There is a step-wise change in thickness at a location between the first location and the second location. Having greater thickness at the periphery of the dome-shaped member may improve stiffness of the diaphragm and may allow for an increased break-up frequency. Having thinner material elsewhere in the dome-shaped member may allow the mass of the diaphragm to be kept low and may result in better acoustic sensitivity. |
| US09609436B2 |
Systems and methods for audio creation and delivery
Systems and methods of providing an audio signal are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method of producing an audio signal includes applying, for example, a head related transfer function (HRTF) and a transducer position compensation filter to an input audio signal to generate an enhanced audio signal configured to be transmitted toward an entrance of the user's ear from a transducer carried by a headset and spaced apart from the entrance to a user's ear. |
| US09609432B2 |
Microphone with automatic bias control
A microphone comprising an automatic bias control providing a better signal quality is proposed. The microphone comprises a bias control circuit that can provide two or more voltages to the microphone's capacitor. The bias control circuit increases the voltage if the collapse frequency is low and decreases the voltage if the collapse frequency is high. |
| US09609415B2 |
Headphones with cable management
Headphones that have one or two earphones. A headband carries the earphones such that they are held against the head of a wearer. A coupling member is located between the earphone and the headband, the coupling member pivotably mounted to the headband at a joint having a first axis around which the coupling member pivots, such that the earphone can be moved from a deployed position in which the earphone is positioned to be worn by the wearer to a stowed position in which the earphone is located closer to the headband than it is in the deployed position. A conductive cable runs from the earphone to the headband through the coupling member. The cable is held in place at a first anchor location in the headband, proximate the coupling member. There is slack in the cable between the first anchor location and the coupling member at least when the earphone is in the deployed position. The coupling member comprises a rigid loop overlying the cable and located adjacent to the slack in the cable, the loop extending away from the first axis. When the earphone is moved from the stowed position to the deployed position the rigid loop pushes the slack in the cable into the headband. |
| US09609414B2 |
Earphone with at least one air orifice
An earphone with at least one air orifice contains a body. The body includes at least one slot defined on a rear cap thereof, and each of the at least one slot has at least one air orifice formed therein. Thereby, the air discharges or draws to vibrate the speaker via the at least one air orifice to reduce resistance of the air against the speaker and to enhance tone quality, when the speaker vibrates in a closed space. |
| US09609411B2 |
Microphone environmental protection device
A device for protecting a microphone sensing surface, such as a diaphragm, from the detrimental effects of the ambient environment. The device incorporates a perforated surface to protect the microphone and in conjunction with a chamber volume creates an acoustic resonance in the 1 kHz to 20 kHz spectrum, which improves the microphone signal-to-noise ratio performance. The microphone is acoustically coupled to the chamber volume for sensing pressure of the ambient environment. There is no line of sight to the microphone sensing surface from the ambient environment, so that rain, wind and sand have no direct path to the microphone sensing surface. The perforations of the outer surface are small to prevent objects from contacting the microphone sensing surface via a direct path. Water drains from the chamber volume and does not become trapped if an embodiment of the invention is temporarily submerged so that the microphone returns to normal operation quickly. |
| US09609408B2 |
Directional control of a vehicle microphone
A hands-free audio system for a vehicle and method of using the system is described. The method includes controlling the directionality of a vehicle microphone. The steps of the method may include: (a) receiving a sensor value from at least one of a vehicle seat position sensor, a vehicle seat orientation sensor, or a vehicle mirror orientation sensor; (b) based on the received sensor value(s) of step (a), determining an origin of a vehicle user's speech; and (c) controlling the microphone sensitivity directionality based on the determined origin. |
| US09609407B2 |
Method of manufacturing an audio equipped fan assembly
An audio equipped fan is disclosed having a housing defining an inner cavity, a motor disposed at least partially in the inner cavity of the housing and having an output shaft extending therefrom that is rotatable by the motor, a fan connected to the output shaft of the motor and rotatable therewith, a grille connected to the housing and positioned in alignment with the fan, the grille having an interior side and an exterior side and defining first openings through which air may flow while the fan is rotated and second openings through which sound may travel, and having a speaker connected to at least one of the housing, motor, fan and grille and aligned on the interior side of the grille with the second openings of the grille so that sound may travel from the speaker through the grille. Related methods are also disclosed. |
| US09609405B2 |
Slim profile loudspeaker
A narrow-profile balanced subwoofer or similar speaker includes a number of drivers placed side by side in the same lateral plane, with a first set of drivers facing one direction and second set of drivers facing the opposite direction. Their orientation is such that the sum of the forces from the first set of drivers is equal and opposite the sum of the forces from the second set of drivers, thus cancelling, and the sum of the moments from all of the drivers about a center or pivot point substantially equals zero. The speaker may include three or more drivers, symmetrically or asymmetrically spaced. The drivers may be of the same or different sizes, and the audio signal amplitudes may be adjusted to help balance the speaker. Each set of drivers may output sound into separate sound ducts, which may output sound from one or more apertures. |
| US09609404B2 |
Telecommunications module
A cable boot is mounted to a telecommunications module housing an optical component, wherein the cable boot extends outwardly from the module. The cable boot is mounted by axially passing the cable boot over a plurality of cables carrying fiber optic signals leading to the optical component, axially passing a portion of the cable boot through a cutout defined on a main housing of the telecommunications module, placing a boot retainer over the boot in a direction transverse to the axial direction to capture the flexible boot against movement both in the axial direction and the transverse direction, and mounting a cover on the main housing to capture the boot retainer against the main housing. |
| US09609400B2 |
Reconfigurable and variable-rate shared multi-transponder architecture for flexible ethernet-based optical networks
Systems and methods for data transport, including receiving one or more signals into a reconfigurable and flexible rate shared rate multi-transponder network architecture, wherein the network architecture includes one or more transponders with multiple line side interfaces and one or more client side interfaces. The transponders are configured to map one or more signals to multiple parallel Virtual Ethernet Links, remove idle characters from the one or more signals, buffer one or more blocks of characters using an intermediate block buffer, activate and deactivate one or more portions of input/output electrical lanes of an Ethernet module, multiplex and demultiplex the one or more signals to and from the input/output electrical lanes to enable sharing of a single optical transceiver by multiple independent signals, and insert blocks of idle characters to enable transmission over a lower rate transmission pipe. |
| US09609399B2 |
Automatic reporting of prognosis data from wireless mesh sensors to cloud
A apparatus is provided that includes a plurality of wireless sensors arranged into a mesh network, wherein each of the plurality of sensors detects threats within a secured geographic area, a processor of each of the plurality of sensors that detects operational and environmental operating conditions of a respective one of the plurality of sensors and reports the operational and environmental operating conditions, a control panel processor that receives and correlates at least one of the operational and environmental operating conditions of the respective one of the plurality of sensors to a potential failure mode and reports the potential failure mode to a cloud application, and a cloud processor of the cloud application that determines a location of the respective one of the plurality of sensors and reports the potential failure mode and the location to a person responsible for the respective one of the plurality of sensors. |
| US09609398B2 |
Content and posted-information time-series link method, and information processing terminal
An information processing terminal includes an operation part to receive a user's operation, an output part to play back an arbitrarily input content while outputting posted information which is posted on the WEB in connection with the content, and a controller to output a content at a playback time, correlated to a posted time of posted information selected via the user's operation, to the output part with reference to a time table which stores the playback position of the content in connection with the posted time of the posted information relating to the content. The controller aligns a plurality of posted information, correlated to a desired content, in an order of posted times on the screen. Upon receiving a user's scroll operation, it is possible to scroll and display a plurality of posted information at the predetermined position on the screen. |
| US09609396B2 |
System for retrieval of executable applications
A system for retrieval of executable applications, comprising: a broadcast tele-vision receiver apparatus; and a server; wherein the broadcast television receiver apparatus includes a communication unit having an interface for bidirectional communication with a network and adapted to determine channel information from a currently decoded channel carried in a broadcast television signal, the channel information identifying the currently decoded channel, the communication unit being further adapted to send the channel information to a server over the network, and to receive application information from the server, the application information describing a set of applications which are available for execution, and to receive executable code components for the set of applications corresponding to the application information, and wherein the broadcast television receiver apparatus further includes a data processor adapted to execute the application while the channel is decoded; and wherein the server is adapted to receive the channel information over the network, to determine the application information by analyzing the channel information, and to send the application information to the communication unit. |
| US09609395B2 |
Second screen subtitles function
Systems for, and methods of, displaying video information comprising: a second screen device obtaining current play position data of a video being played on a primary screen device (e.g., obtaining from the primary screen device an identification of a current play position of the video, or obtaining information to generate an acoustic fingerprint of the video); determining a current play position of the video playing on the primary screen device based upon the current play position data (e.g., identification of the current play position or the acoustic fingerprint); downloading information (e.g., video map, subtitles, moral principles, objectionable content, memorable content, performers, geographical maps, shopping, plot point, item, ratings, and trivia information) over a computer communications network into the memory of the second screen device; and displaying information on the second screen device synchronized with the contemporaneously played video on the primary screen device. |
| US09609390B2 |
System and method for providing contextual functionality for presented content
The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, electronic devices and applications for presentation and control of content. In one embodiment, a method for presentation of a user interface associated with content presented by a display device includes running an application by a device, wherein the application is configured to present a user interface based on content displayed by a display device, and receiving data from the display device, wherein the data is associated with content displayed by the display device. The method also includes presenting a user interface on the device by the application based on data received from the display device, wherein graphical elements and functions of the user interface are presented based on content displayed by the display device, and wherein graphical elements of the user interface are selectable to generate commands for the display device. |
| US09609388B2 |
Method and set top box for use in a multimedia system
A multimedia server receives a plurality of programs of a multimedia source. The multimedia server includes a tuning module to receive the plurality of programs and to select a set of programs from the plurality of programs based on a set of program select commands that is derived from select requests. A program mixer mixes the set of programs into a stream of program data. One or more transceiving modules transmit the stream of program data on to corresponding communication paths and receive the select requests. A client module produces the select requests for one or more clients. The client module includes a selection module to produce at least one of the select requests. A network interface controller transmits at least one of select requests to the multimedia server and receives the stream of program data via the communication path or paths in response. |
| US09609387B2 |
Communication device, communication system, and communication control method
A communication device that receives, from a different communication device, video data being encoded in a scalable manner, decodes received video data, and reproduces and outputs the video data, that comprises: a subjective-quality information acquiring unit acquiring subjective quality information where a combination of values of multiple items related to a coding setting of video data is related to an evaluation result of a subjective quality with regard to video data; a determining unit determining levels of priority of the items in accordance with one of a purpose of video data received from the different device and a user's setting operation; a generating unit generating coding setting information for determining a coding setting of video data received from the different device in accordance with the subjective quality information and the levels of priority of the items; and a notifying unit notifying the coding setting information to the difference device. |
| US09609386B2 |
System and methods for analyzing content engagement in conjunction with social media
Various embodiments disclose a system and methods for media content analysis based at least in part upon social media data. In some embodiments, a computer system may identify social media messages corresponding to televised content. For example, following the uploading of a television show (or advertisement) to an Internet website, or transmission across a television network, viewers and non-viewers of the show may begin commenting upon the show. The system may correlate the number of viewers of the show with the social media messages to generate one or more metrics describing relations between the show's viewership and the show's social media effects. |
| US09609385B2 |
Methods and apparatus to detect people
Methods and apparatus to detect people are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a receiver to obtain respective light information for a plurality of segments of an image, each of the segments corresponding to a portion of a media exposure environment; a pulse identifier to detect a first human pulse pattern in the light information associated with a first one of the segments; and a grouper to determine whether the light information associated with a threshold amount of the segments proximate the first one of the segments includes the first human pulse pattern identified in the first one of the segments, and to generate a presence indication when the light information associated with the threshold amount of the segments proximate the first segment includes the first human pulse pattern. |
| US09609383B1 |
Directional audio for virtual environments
Technology is described for providing audio for digital content. The digital content may be provided to a plurality of devices. Each device may be associated with a profile. At least one group of profiles may be identified from the plurality of devices that share an affiliation. The group of profiles may be represented as a group of environment objects in the digital content. A location may be identified within the digital content that corresponds to the group of environment objects. Audio may be received for the devices. The audio may be received while the digital content is being transmitted to the plurality of devices. The audio may be transmitted to the plurality of devices for directional audio playback. The audio may be directed to correspond with the virtual location of the at least one group of environment objects in the digital content. |
| US09609382B2 |
Apparatus and method for wireless communications
An apparatus and method for wireless communications are provided. The apparatus for wireless communications includes a media access control processing unit providing a plurality of sub-packets, and a transmitting/receiving unit outputting a packet that includes the plurality of sub-packets using a plurality of transmission modes. |
| US09609367B2 |
Signal processing device, signal processing method, program, and signal transmission system
The present disclosure relates to a signal processing device, a signal processing method, a program, and a signal transmission system, capable of enabling video switching in frame units of an original video signal. A pixel thinning control unit thin out every other pair of two neighboring samples of each line from N consecutive frames of a video signal including an m*n(48P-60P)*N/r:g:b/10-bit or 12-bit signal in which the number of pixels per frame exceeds the number of pixels specified in an HD format at intervals of 2N lines, map the thinned every other pair of two neighboring pixel samples to first to 4N-th sub images including an m′*n′/48P-60P/r′:g′:b′/10-bit or 12-bit signal, and arrange a vertical blanking region between two of N regions in which pixel samples of respective frames of the first video signal are mapped in each sub image. |
| US09609363B2 |
Method and apparatus for obtaining size of transform block
The present disclosure provides a method for obtaining a size of a transform block, where the method includes: obtaining a dividing manner of an image block; and obtaining size information of a post-dividing transform block according to the dividing manner of the image block and a width and a height of a pre-dividing transform block. By using the method for obtaining a size of a transform block provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure, a size of a transform block may be coded according to a dividing manner of an image block or a height and a width of a pre-dividing transform block, thereby effectively improving coding efficiency. |
| US09609359B2 |
Image decoding apparatus adaptively determining a scan pattern according to an intra prediction mode
Provided is an image decoding apparatus that receives an intra prediction mode and one-dimensional (1D) quantized coefficients, restores a quantized transform block by inversely scanning the 1D quantized coefficients, inversely quantizes the quantized transform block using a quantization step size, inversely transforms the transform block to generate a residual block, and generates a prediction block according to the intra prediction mode. When a size of the transform block is 8×8, the quantized transform block is divided into a plurality of sub-blocks, and the plurality of sub-blocks and coefficients of each sub-block are scanned using a same scan pattern determined according to the intra prediction mode. When the intra prediction mode is a horizontal mode, the scan pattern is a vertical scan. |
| US09609358B2 |
Performing video encoding mode decisions based on down-scaled macroblock texture complexity
A method and apparatus are described for performing video encoding mode decisions in a video transcoding system. A down-scaled frame may be received that includes at least one macroblock. The down-scaled frame may be associated with a full-scale frame having a plurality of macroblocks that have been downsampled. A weighting factor and a distance measure factor may be determined for each of the macroblocks in the full-scale frame. Predicted blocks may be generated based on the weighting and distance measure factors. |
| US09609357B2 |
Non-zero rounding and prediction mode selection techniques in video encoding
In one aspect of this disclosure, rounding adjustments to bi-directional predictive data may be purposely eliminated to provide predictive data that lacks any rounding bias. In this case, rounded and unrounded predictive data may both be considered in a rate-distortion analysis to identify the best data for prediction of a given video block. In another aspect of this disclosure, techniques are described for selecting among default weighted prediction, implicit weighted prediction, and explicit weighted prediction. In this context, techniques are also described for adding offset to prediction data, e.g., using the format of explicit weighted prediction to allow for offsets to predictive data that is otherwise determined by implicit or default weighted prediction. |
| US09609356B2 |
Moving picture coding method and apparatus with candidate motion vectors
A moving picture coding method for coding a current block derives a first candidate having a first motion vector predictor derived from a first motion vector that has been used to code a first block. It is determined whether a total number of one or more candidates having the first candidate is less than a maximum candidate number, and a second candidate having a second motion vector predictor is derived when the total number of the one or more candidates having the first candidate is less than the maximum candidate number. The second motion vector predictor is a zero vector. A candidate for coding the current block is selected out of the plurality of candidates having the first candidate and the second candidate. |
| US09609348B2 |
Systems and methods for video content analysis
Video analytics systems and methods are described that typically comprise a video encoder operable to generate macroblock video analytics metadata (VAMD) from a video frame. Functional modules receive the VAMD and an encoded version of the video frame is configured to generate video analytics information related to the frame using the VAMD and the encoded video frame. The downstream decoder can use the VAMD to obtain a global motion vector related to the frame, detect and track motion of an object within the frame and monitor a line provided or found within the frame. Traversals of the line by a moving object can be detected and counted using information in the VAMD and the line may be part of a polygon that delineates an area to be monitored within the encoded frame. The VAMD can comprise macroblock level and video frame level information. |
| US09609337B2 |
Temporal motion data candidate derivation in video coding
A method for derivation of a temporal motion data (TMD) candidate for a prediction unit (PU) in video encoding or video decoding is provided. The derived TMD candidate is for inclusion in an inter-prediction candidate list for the PU. The method includes determining a primary TMD position relative to a co-located PU in a co-located largest coding unit (LCU), wherein the co-located PU is a block in a reference picture having a same size, shape, and coordinates as the PU, and selecting at least some motion data of a secondary TMD position as the TMD candidate when the primary TMD position is in a bottom neighboring LCU or in a bottom right neighboring LCU of the co-located LCU, wherein the secondary TMD position is determined relative to the co-located PU. |
| US09609334B2 |
Method and apparatus for encoding/decoding image using variable-size macroblocks
A video encoding apparatus using a tree structure, includes: a splitter to generate a partition flag indicating whether each block, starting from a block corresponding to an uppermost layer of the tree structure, is divided into four blocks of a lower layer; and an encoder to encode, into a bitstream, the partition flag and prediction type information on a block which is not further divided in the tree structure, wherein, when a block of a first layer is divided into four blocks of a second layer which is a lower layer of the first layer, the encoder is configured to encode the partition flag for each of the four blocks of the second layer in a predetermined order. |
| US09609332B2 |
Adjusting encoding parameters at a mobile device based on a change in available network bandwidth
A method includes encoding, at a mobile device having a camera, a first portion of a media stream captured by the camera based on an encoding parameter. The method also includes sending the encoded first portion of the media stream from the mobile device to a computing device via a network connection. The method further includes detecting a change in available network bandwidth of the network connection. The method includes automatically adjusting the encoding parameter in response to the change in the available network bandwidth. The method also includes encoding a second portion of the media stream based on the adjusted encoding parameter and sending the encoded second portion of the media stream from the mobile device to the computing device. |
| US09609331B2 |
Camera parameter-assisted video frame rate up conversion
This disclosure describes methods and apparatus for decoding data. In one aspect, the method comprises decoding encoded video data to obtain decoded video frame data, the encoded video data comprising encoded video frame data encoded at a first frame rate and embedded data. The method further comprises determining a camera parameter from the embedded data and up-converting the decoded video frame data to a second frame rate based on the camera parameter. The determined camera parameter may be, for example, a parameter associated with one or more of a zoom factor, an auto focus status, lens position information, frame luma information, an auto exposure (AE) convergence status, an automatic white balance (AWB) convergence status, global motion information, and frame blurriness information, and the like. An encoding device may embed the camera parameter(s) in an encoded video bit stream for a decoder to utilize during frame rate up-conversion. |
| US09609330B2 |
Content adaptive entropy coding of modes and reference types data for next generation video
Techniques related to content adaptive entropy coding of modes and reference types data are described. |
| US09609325B2 |
Apparatus for decoding an image
Provided is an apparatus for decoding an image that adaptively filters reference pixels according to an intra prediction mode and a size of a prediction block, and generates the prediction block according to the intra prediction mode. When the reference pixels for a second directional intra prediction mode are filtered, the reference pixels for a first directional intra prediction mode, that is closer to an intra prediction mode having the direction of 45° with reference to a horizontal mode than the second directional intra prediction mode is, are also filtered. The first and the second intra prediction modes exist between the horizontal mode and the intra prediction mode having the direction of 45° with reference to the horizontal mode. The number of intra prediction modes in which the filter is applied increases as the size of the prediction block increases. |
| US09609324B2 |
Image encoding/decoding method and device using coefficients of adaptive interpolation filter
An image encoding and decoding method comprising: a coefficient calculator for calculating adaptive interpolation filter coefficient of a current frame; an image encoder for interpolating reference frames using the adaptive interpolation filter coefficient of the current frame and encoding the current frame using the interpolated reference frames; a filter flag encoder for generating and encoding a coefficient-inserted flag or coefficient non-inserted flag as a filter flag according to the adaptive interpolation filter coefficient of the current frame; a coefficient encoder for encoding the adaptive interpolation filter coefficient of the current frame when the filter flag is a coefficient-inserted flag; and a bit stream generator for generating and outputting a bit stream, which includes the encoded current frame and encoded filter flag, and further includes encoded adaptive interpolation filter coefficient of the current frame when the filter flag is the coefficient-inserted flag. |
| US09609317B1 |
Video transcoder stream multiplexing systems and methods
In some embodiments, a video (e.g. MPEG-2, H.264) transcoder channel pool is used to transcode multiple independent videos (programs) per channel substantially concurrently. A syntactically-unified combined input video stream is assembled by interleaving segments of different input video streams. The combined stream may be a container stream or elementary stream. Each segment includes one or more groups of pictures (GOP). The combined stream includes the payload video data of the input streams in unmodified form, and modified header data characterizing the combined stream as a single video stream. The combined input stream is transcoded using a single transcoder channel/input port to generate a combined output video stream. Multiple independent output video streams are assembled by de-interleaving segments of the combined output video stream according to stored interleaving break identifiers. Assembling the output video streams includes updating output video stream header fields according to stored header field data. |
| US09609311B2 |
Stereoscopic display system and image display method thereof
A stereoscopic display system including a display apparatus and an image guiding plate is provided. The display apparatus provides diverge images. The display apparatus includes a plurality of stereoscopic display unit groups. Each of the stereoscopic display unit groups includes at least one stereoscopic display unit. Each of the stereoscopic display units includes a plurality of pixel groups. In each of the stereoscopic display units, the pixel groups provide a plurality of image beams corresponding to parts of the diverge images. Different stereoscopic display units correspond to different parts of the diverge images. The image guiding plate is disposed on a transmission path of the image beams. The image guiding plate includes a plurality of optical structures arranged periodically, so as to respectively guide the image beams to a plurality of directions. Furthermore, an image display method of the foregoing stereoscopic display system is provided. |
| US09609306B2 |
Hierarchical binary structured light patterns
A method of image processing in a structured light imaging device is provided that includes receiving a captured image of a scene, wherein the captured image is captured by a camera of a projector-camera pair in the structured light imaging system, and wherein the captured image includes a pre-determined hierarchical binary pattern projected into the scene by the projector, wherein the pre-determined hierarchical binary pattern was formed by iteratively scaling a lower resolution binary pattern to multiple successively higher resolutions, rectifying the captured image to generated a rectified captured image, extracting a binary image from the rectified captured image at full resolution and at each resolution used to generate the pre-determined hierarchical binary pattern, and using the binary images to generate a depth map of the captured image. |
| US09609305B1 |
Feature-based rectification of stereo cameras
Depth information can be used to assist with image processing functionality, such as various calibration approaches to determine and correct for misalignments between cameras. In at least some embodiments, depth information obtained from stereo imaging or distance sensing, for example, can be used to segment an image or frame of video into at least a foreground object and a background object. Once the foreground and background object has been determined, information about that objects can be used to determine a mapping, and once a subsequent stereoscopic image is captured using the cameras, the mapping can be applied to each image to account for misalignment effects due to a misaligned stereo camera pair before providing the stereoscopic image for display. |
| US09609303B2 |
Image generation apparatus and method for controlling the same
An image generation apparatus includes a holding unit configured to acquire and hold pixel values of pixel groups that serve as targets for comparison from the respective first and second images; a reading unit configured to sequentially read out, from the pixel values of the respective pixel groups that are held in the holding unit, pixel values in one direction for each area that is set depending on a pixel position of the range image; a calculation unit configured to calculate an evaluation value based on the pixel values read out by the reading unit; an estimation unit configured to estimate the subject distance based on the evaluation value; and a generation unit configured to generate a range image based on the subject distance estimated by the estimation unit. |
| US09609302B2 |
Image processing device, imaging device, image processing method, and recording medium
An image processing method according to the present invention cuts out partial images corresponding to trimming regions, which is specified for multiple viewpoint images of a stereoscopic image obtained by pupil-division-scheme imaging, from the respective viewpoint images, generates a stereoscopic partial image including multiple partial images, generates parallax information that indicates the parallax between the partial images, adjusts the parallax between the partial images based on the parallax information, and then, for the partial images after the parallax adjustment, enhances the sharpness as the adjusted parallax amount decreases and reduces the sharpness as the adjusted parallax amount increases. |
| US09609299B2 |
Creating time lapse video in real-time
A time lapse video is created in real-time, without post-production. User configurations are set for a time lapse video recording. A real-time video feed is received into a buffer. Based on a user configuration for frequency, certain frames in the buffer can be discarded prior to generating the video file. The time lapse video is output as a video file according to user configurations. |
| US09609297B2 |
Image capturing apparatus performing exposure control and exposure control method
In an image capturing apparatus, a subject image is converted into an image signal, which undergoes automatic correction processing including white balance correction processing, and further undergoes image quality change processing. A first evaluation value indicating a largest value of an R signal, a G signal, and a B signal of the image signal undergone the image quality change processing and a second evaluation value indicating a luminance of the image signal undergone the image quality change processing are detected. A control evaluation value is calculated using weighted average of the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value according to at least one of an amount of image quality changing effect due to the image quality change processing and a reliability of the automatic correction processing, and exposure control is performed based on the control evaluation value. |
| US09609294B2 |
Illumination device, projection type image display device, and optical device
To provide an illumination device and a projection type image display device that illuminate an area to be illuminated (image formation area) under conditions where speckle noise is less noticeable.An illumination device according to the present invention includes: a light source 11 that emits coherent light; an optical scanning section 15 that scans the coherent light emitted from the light source 11; a lens array 22 including a plurality of element lenses and configured to diverge the light scanned by the optical scanning section; an optical path conversion system 23 configured to control a diverging angle of the diverging light to be emitted from respective points of the lens array 22 and to allow the diverging light whose diverging angle has been controlled to illuminate an area to be illuminated sequentially in an overlapping manner. |
| US09609293B2 |
Wavelength converting member and projector including the wavelength converting member
A wavelength converting member includes at least a first, second, and third regions, circumferentially on a disc-shaped light-transmissive substrate. The first region includes, from a light incident direction, a first and second phosphor layers. The first phosphor layer includes a first phosphor to absorb at least part of incident light and to emit a first light having a wavelength different from the incident light. The first phosphor layer defines an indentation in a surface on the second phosphor layer side, with a depth a half or more of the thickness of a portion of the first phosphor layer absent of the indentation. The second phosphor layer includes a second phosphor to absorb at least part of the first light emitted by the first phosphor and to emit a second light having a wavelength different from the first light, and is disposed in the indentation of the first phosphor layer. |
| US09609291B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method, and program
To provide an apparatus that generates an RGB pattern data from an image pickup signal by an image pickup element having an RGBW pattern and a method. An edge detection unit analyzes an output signal of the image pickup signal of the RGBW pattern to obtain edge information corresponding to the respective pixels, and a texture detection unit generates texture information. Furthermore, a parameter calculation unit executes an interpolation processing in which an applied pixel position is changed in accordance with an edge direction of a transform target pixel to generate parameters equivalent to an interpolation pixel value. In a blend processing unit, the parameters generated by the parameter calculation unit, the edge information, and the texture information are input, in accordance with the edge information and the texture information corresponding to the transform pixel, a blend ratio of the parameters calculated by the parameter calculation unit is changed, the blend processing is executed, and a transform pixel value is decided. |
| US09609289B2 |
Vision system for vehicle
A vision system for a vehicle includes a forward viewing camera and an image processor operable to process image data captured by the camera. Responsive at least in part to processing of captured image data, lane markers of a road along which the vehicle is traveling are detected, other vehicles are detected, and road curvature of the road along which the vehicle is traveling is determined. The vehicle includes a global positioning system and a vehicle communication system operable for wireless communication with an external control located remote from the vehicle. The current geographic location of the vehicle and data derived from captured image data are wirelessly communicated to the external control. The received current geographic location and data are processed at the external control and information that is derived, at least in part, from such processing is wirelessly communicated from the external control to the equipped vehicle. |
| US09609286B2 |
Endoscope
In the endoscope of the present invention, first electronic components and second electronic components are provided inside an elongated insertion portion, and a solid ground pattern that extends over a greater range than the first electronic components is interposed between the first electronic components and the second electronic components. |
| US09609280B2 |
Method for controlling access to a plurality of channels by a receiver/decoder
A method for controlling access to a plurality of channels by a unit comprising a security module, each channel being encrypted by a specific control word and having a channel identifier, this method comprising the steps of: tuning to a first channel having first channel identifier and receiving first messages containing a first control word; decrypting the first messages and using the first control word; storing the first control word and the first channel identifier; tuning to a second channel having second channel identifier; calculating the second control word by: calculating a root control word with an inverse cryptographic function F−1 using the first control word and the first channel identifier; calculating the second control word with the cryptographic function F using the root control word and the second channel identifier; and using the second control word to access the second channel. |
| US09609278B2 |
Method and system for auxiliary data detection and delivery
A method and system for auxiliary data detection. Data is received on a hand-held device from a display of a signal on a monitor. The signal is visually displayed on the monitor at a frequency. A modulated video signal is received on the hand-held device from a display device. The modulated video signal contains auxiliary data modulated within a video signal in a substantially invisible way. The modulated video signal is demodulated to obtain the auxiliary data. At least one of the data or the auxiliary data is processed to identify a promotional opportunity available through the hand-held device. The user of the hand-held device is notified of availability of the promotional opportunity through the hand-held device. |
| US09609277B1 |
Playback system of video conference record and method for video conferencing record
A playback system for a video conferencing record includes a first electronic device obtaining a video conferencing record and a second electronic device receiving the video conferencing record. The second electronic device analyzes the video conferencing record into a plurality of chunks based on recognizing each dialog in the video conferencing record, analyzing the topic intensity of each dialog, and analyzes the relevance of each chunk to move it out of a dialog or add it to another. Video clips from the video conferencing record can be retrieved according to a keyword index, and the video clips accordingly displayed on a display. A playback method for such video conferencing record or the parts is also provided. |
| US09609276B2 |
Resource-adaptive video encoder sharing in multipoint control unit
Systems and methods of video conferencing, in which existing video encoders associated with a multipoint control unit (MCU) can be shared among conference participant devices, depending upon the availability of processor and/or memory resources for the MCU. In making decisions regarding the sharing of video encoders, the systems and methods take into account various parameters associated with potential conference participant devices and the total cost of the processor/memory resources for the MCU, to determine whether a video encoder of the MCU can be shared with, or allocated to, the respective conference participant devices. By determining whether to share or allocate a video encoder of the MCU, depending upon the available processor/memory resources for the MCU, the MCU can be made to operate with increased stability. The systems and methods can be applied to any application that sends the same content to multiple receivers, including announcement and video streaming applications. |
| US09609273B2 |
System and method for not displaying duplicate images in a video conference
A video conference is established between a first video device and a second video device. The first video device captures a first participant's images in the video conference. The first participant's image is also captured as part of the video conference via the second video device (i.e., there are duplicate images of the first participant's image being captured). The first participant's image is detected as being captured by the first video device and the second video device in the video conference. For example, the duplicate images can be determined based on facial recognition. In response to detecting that the first participant's image is being captured by the first video device and the second video device in the video conference, the process automatically forbears from displaying at least one of the first participant's image captured by the first and second video devices. |
| US09609269B2 |
Remote web-based visitation system for prisons
A web-based video conferencing system and method for providing remote visitation with inmates incarnated in a prison. All visitations are initiated by the inmates and no endpoint control by prison personnel is required. “Jail-hardened” terminals in the prison communicate via Internet with visitor Internet-enabled devices. Payment for services is paid by visitors using an on-line payment service relieving prison personnel of any handling of money. All calls (excluding clergy, lawyers, etc.) are typically recorded and no routine monitoring is required by prison personnel. Inmates use the “jail-hardened” terminals to initiate video conference using only a 12-key telephone style keypad. A fee-per-minute is charged. Time is tracked for each call and the call duration and remaining time for a call based upon the maximum allowed call length and an inmate's available minutes are displayed for both the visitor and the inmate. |
| US09609263B2 |
Optical unit and projective display device
In an optical unit of a projective display device which projects light source light reflected by a DMD, one prism of TIR prisms has a first boundary surface which is arranged in parallel to an emission surface of the light source light of other prism at a predetermined distance and on which the light source light from other prism is incident and a second boundary surface which is provided to face the DMD and emits the light source light illuminating the DMD and on which reflected light from the DMD is incident. When a swinging angle of minute mirrors of the DMD is set as ±θ, a refractive index of the prisms is set as n, an angle formed by the first boundary surface and the second boundary surface is set as β, and an emission angle of the light source light with respect to the DMD in the second boundary surface is set as α, the swinging angle θ, the refractive index n, the angle β, and the angle α satisfy a predetermined relation. |
| US09609262B2 |
Device for adaptive projection
Embodiments of the invention describe apparatuses, systems and methods for dynamic projector calibration. Embodiments of the invention execute operations for capturing, via an image sensor included in a projector device, image data of an area around the projector device. Said image sensor captures 3D distance information as well as image pixel information of the surrounding area. A projection area is selected based (in part) on surface properties of the projection area determined from the image data.The projector may be calibrated (e.g., projection brightness, color balance, angle, etc.) based on the captured image data. A user I/O interface is projected onto the selected projection area, and the projector may be further (i.e., dynamically) calibrated based on captured image data of the projected user I/O interface. |
| US09609256B2 |
Solid-state image sensor, method of controlling the same, and storage medium
A solid-state image sensor comprises unit pixels, each unit pixel including photodiodes, transfer switches, a floating diffusion portion, and reset means, and an AD converter, wherein the AD converter includes a reference signal generator and a comparator that compares the reference signal and analog signal and vary an output depending on a magnitude relationship, the floating diffusion portion accumulates a first signal obtained by transferring a signal of at least one of the photodiodes, and adds, to the first signal, a second signal obtained by transferring a signal of at least one of the photodiodes, and the AD converter operates in a first AD conversion mode when AD-converting the first signal, and operates in a second AD conversion mode when AD-converting the second signal. |
| US09609254B2 |
Compact row decoder with multiple voltage support
The present invention provides a compact row decoder with multiple voltage support. The row decoder may include a global driver and a plurality of row-level drivers. The global driver may include one or more voltage level shifters that are operable to provide multiple voltages required to drive each of the plurality of row-level drivers. The plurality of row-level drivers each may include only one voltage level shifter. In an example, the row-level driver includes an address decoder implemented in a digital domain providing an address selection signal, a voltage level shifter to convert the address selection signal to an analog domain, and a row driver receiving driving signals from the global driver. The row driver has no voltage level shifter contained therein. Thus, the row-level drivers and the row decoder may be very compact. The present invention further provides a CMOS image sensor including the row decoder and a method of operating the CMOS image sensor. |
| US09609253B2 |
Solid state imaging device having a shared pixel structure and electronic apparatus
A solid state imaging device includes a pixel array unit in which color filters of a plurality of colors are arrayed with four pixels of vertical 2 pixels×horizontal 2 pixels as a same color unit that receives light of the same color, shared pixel transistors that are commonly used by a plurality of pixels are intensively arranged in one predetermined pixel in a unit of sharing, and a color of the color filter of a pixel where the shared pixel transistors are intensively arranged is a predetermined color among the plurality of colors. The present technology can be applied, for example, to a solid state imaging device such as a back-surface irradiation type CMOS image sensor. |
| US09609247B2 |
Solid-state imaging device performing feed-forward control of multiplication factor of multiplication register to match dynamic range of the device with the intensity distribution of incident light
A solid-state imaging device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is a charge multiplying solid-state imaging device, and includes an imaging area 10 that generates a charge according to the amount of incident light, an output register unit 20 that receives the charge from the imaging area 10, and a multiplication register unit 28 that multiplies the charge from the output register 20, and performs feed-forward control of the multiplication factor of the multiplication register unit 28 according to the charge amount from the imaging area 10. |
| US09609241B2 |
Image sensor pixel array having output response curve including logarithmic pattern for image sensor based terminal
There is described in one embodiment an indicia reading terminal having an image sensor pixel array incorporated therein, wherein the terminal is operative for decoding of decodable indicia and for providing color frames of image data for storage or transmission. An image sensor based terminal in one embodiment can include an image sensor having a hybrid monochrome and color image sensor pixel array wherein the image sensor pixel array includes a first subset of monochrome pixels and a second subset of color pixels. In one embodiment, an output response curve for the image sensor pixel array can include a logarithmic pattern. |
| US09609240B2 |
Solid state imaging device, method of controlling solid state imaging device, and program for controlling solid state imaging device
A solid state imaging device includes: a pixel array unit that has a plurality of pixels 2-dimensionally arranged in a matrix and a plurality of signal lines arranged along a column direction; A/D conversion units that are provided corresponding to the respective signal lines and convert an analog signal output from a pixel through the signal line into a digital signal; and a switching unit that switches or converts the analog signal output through each signal line into a digital signal using any of an A/D conversion unit provided corresponding to the signal line through which the analog signal is transmitted, and an A/D conversion unit provided corresponding to a signal line other than the signal line through which the analog signal is transmitted. |
| US09609239B2 |
Infrared image sensor
An image sensor includes a substrate, a plurality of visible light photosensitive devices, an infrared photosensitive device, a plurality of color filters, an infrared band-pass filter, a micro-lens layer and an infrared filter layer. The plurality of visible light photosensitive devices and the infrared photosensitive device are disposed in the substrate, wherein the plurality of visible light photosensitive devices and the infrared photosensitive device are arranged in an array. The plurality of color filters are respectively disposed to cover the plurality of visible light photosensitive device. In addition, the infrared band-pass filter disposed to cover the infrared photosensitive device. Furthermore, the micro-lens layer is disposed on the plurality of color filters and the infrared band-pass filter. The infrared filter layer is disposed to cover the plurality of visible light photosensitive device. |
| US09609238B2 |
Method for modeling a three-dimensional topological surface of an object from long-wave-infrared radiation emitted from the object
A method and apparatus is provided for modeling a three-dimensional topological surface of an object acquiring, using a thermal imaging camera, a first image of the object, wherein the first image comprises a plurality of pixels each representative of at least one component of thermal data, calculating a normal vector for each pixel in the first image, corresponding to the normal vector on a surface of the object, generating a three-dimensional model representing a surface of the object based on aggregating the normal vector for each pixel together in the first image. |
| US09609235B2 |
Digital camera, information processing method, and computer program
A digital camera includes: a RAW data conversion unit that converts pixel values of respective colors of RAW data into values corresponding to predetermined spectral characteristics; and an output image conversion unit that converts the values corresponding to the spectral characteristics converted in the RAW data conversion unit, into predetermined output image data. |
| US09609233B2 |
Method and system for luminance adjustment of images in an image sequence
Disclosed are a method and apparatus for adjusting a set of luminance values associated with a set of visual elements in a current frame (310) of a video sequence for object detection (370). The method determines (410,430,450), for each of a plurality of scenarios (SO, SI, S2), a set of adjusted luminance values based on a corresponding luminance compensation value, and accumulates (460), for each scenario, a set of brightness counts and darkness counts of the current frame based on the set of adjusted luminance values. A metric (470) is calculated for each scenario based on the set of brightness counts and darkness counts and one of scenarios is selected based on the calculated metric. The method then selects (350) the adjusted luminance value associated with the selected scenario as an adjusted set of luminance values associated with the current frame of the video sequence. |
| US09609232B2 |
Imaging apparatus capable of notification of information about a presence of a flicker and execution of processing for reducing an influence of the flicker, a control method for an imaging apparatus, and a non-transitory recording medium recording a program for causing a computer to execute a control method
At least one imaging apparatus includes a sensor configured to output a signal according to an incident light amount, a calculation unit configured to calculate an evaluation value in regard to a flicker based on the output signal from the sensor, a notification unit configured to notify a user of information about a presence of the flicker based on the evaluation value, and a control unit configured to control processing for reducing an influence of the flicker based on the evaluation value. When the evaluation value is equal to or larger than a first threshold value, the notification unit notifies the user of the information about the presence of the flicker. When the evaluation value is equal to or larger than a second threshold value which is larger than the first threshold value, the control unit performs control to carry out processing for reducing the influence of the flicker. |
| US09609231B2 |
Imaging system and imaging method
An imaging system 100 for imaging a sample in a medium carried in a container WP as an imaging object comprises: an imager 21 which obtains an original image by imaging the imaging object; and a data processor 33 which generates multi-gradation image data by performing a gradation correction on the original image, wherein the data processor 33 associates a luminance value corresponding to a luminance of the medium in the original image with a maximum gradation value in the gradation correction. |
| US09609223B2 |
Image pickup element, image pickup apparatus, and method and program for controlling the same
An image pickup element generates an AF evaluation value to be used for image-pickup in accordance with an image signal corresponding to a voltage signal obtained from a first pixel group among a plurality of pixels. The image pickup element further outputs an image signal corresponding to a voltage signal obtained from a second pixel group among the plurality of pixels as a live-view display signal for image display. In accordance with the AF evaluation value, a control unit controls a mechanical optical unit having a focus lens and performs live-view display on an image display unit in accordance with the live-view display signal. |
| US09609219B2 |
Suspension system for a camera lens element
A camera lens element is suspended on a support structure by balls that allow movement of the camera lens elementorthogonal to the optical axis and plural flexures connected between the support structure and the camera lens element to bias them against the balls while permitting said movement of the camera lens elementorthogonal to the optical axis. Lateral movement is driven by a lateral actuation arrangement comprising plural SMA actuator wires. The flexures provide a lateral biasing force that biases the camera lens element towards a central position. An electrical connection is made through the flexures from the support structure to the camera lens element. The flexures may be connected to laminated structures. |
| US09609216B2 |
Image-displaying device and method for controlling image-displaying device
An image capturing device includes an image capturing unit capturing an image at a timing based on a first frame rate and outputs data corresponding to the image after a first period, an image data generation unit generating image data based on the output data and outputting the image data after a second period, a display unit displaying a display image based on the image data after the second period and at a timing based on a second frame rate, and a mode selecting unit selecting a first or second mode. The first mode prioritizes reduction in a display delay time. The second mode prioritizes image quality of the display image over reduction in the display delay time. A total period of the first and second periods is less than or equal to a first vertical synchronization period based on the first frame rate when the first mode is selected. |
| US09609215B2 |
Moving-image recording/reproduction apparatus
A moving-image recording/reproduction apparatus includes a first image processing apparatus configured to divide a region of an image signal into first and second regions when the image signal of each frame in a high-resolution moving image is input and generate first moving-image data by performing moving-image processing on the image signal of the first region and a second image processing apparatus configured to generate second moving-image data by performing the moving-image processing on the image signal of the second region. High-resolution moving-image data corresponding to the high-resolution moving-image obtained by combining the first and second moving-image data and low-resolution moving-image data corresponding to a low-resolution moving image having the same angle of view as the high-resolution moving image generated by the first or second image processing apparatuses are associated and recorded and the high- or low-resolution moving-image data is selected according to an image resolution that can be displayed. |
| US09609213B2 |
Solid-state imaging device and driving method of solid-state imaging device, and electronic equipment
The solid-state imaging device of the present disclosure includes a signal processing unit including an AD converter that digitizes an analog pixel signal read from each pixel of the pixel array unit to a signal line, the signal processing unit transferring digitized pixel data at a first speed higher than a frame rate; a memory unit that stores the pixel data transferred from the signal processing unit; a data processing unit that reads pixel data at a second speed lower than the first speed from the memory unit; and a control unit that, when the pixel data is read from the memory unit, controls to stop operation of a current source connected with the signal line and operation of at least the AD converter of the signal processing unit. |
| US09609212B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method, and image system
An image processing apparatus detecting a plurality of joint positions between a plurality of input images includes a target image generation unit configured to generate a plurality of target images to be searched in a second input image among the input images from a first input image among the input images; a characteristic amount calculation unit configured to calculate a characteristic amount for each of the target images generated by the target image generation unit; and a matching calculation unit configured to calculate a matching between the target image of interest among the target images having the characteristic amounts calculated by the characteristic amount calculation unit, and a part of the second input image, using an evaluation method depending on the characteristic amounts calculated by the characteristic amount calculation unit. |
| US09609208B2 |
Image generation method, image generation apparatus, program, and storage medium
An image generation method is provided for generating an output image from an input image acquired by an image sensor that has an array of multiple pixels, each of which has arranged therein multiple sub-pixels that each receive a light beam that passes through a different pupil sub-area of an imaging optical system. The method includes a step of generating multiple parallax images that respectively correspond to the different pupil sub-areas; a step of generating multiple pixel shifted images by performing different shifting for each of the parallax images according to a virtual image forming plane of the imaging optical system; and a step of generating an output image that has a higher resolution than the resolution of the parallax images from the pixel shifted images through composition processing. |
| US09609199B2 |
Image processing apparatus, system, method, and medium
An image processing apparatus capable of communicating with an external apparatus via a network includes, a combining unit configured to combine a plurality of images captured under different exposure conditions, an exposure setting unit configured to acquire an image under a set exposure condition, a reception unit configured to receive a command for specifying an operation of the combining unit and the exposure setting unit from the external apparatus, and a first control unit configured to control a timing of the operation of the exposure setting unit, specified by the command received by the reception unit, based on an operation state of at least one of the combining unit and the exposure setting unit. |
| US09609197B1 |
Systems and methods for dewarping images
A computer-implemented method comprises: extracting a setting from a description file of a virtual pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera used to capture an original image through a wide-angle lens; determining a first set of coordinates of a pixel of the original image for each cell of a sparse conversion map represented as a first look-up table, wherein the sparse conversion map corresponds to a sparse grid of pixels of an output image; determining, via interpolating the first set of coordinates, a second set of coordinates of a pixel of the original image for each cell of a full conversion map, wherein the second set of coordinates is represented as a second look-up table, wherein the full conversion map corresponds to a full grid of pixels of the output image; instructing a display to present the output image, wherein the original image is less rectilinear than the output image. |
| US09609192B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method and program, and imaging apparatus
An image processing apparatus has a plurality of optical systems arranged two-dimensionally and a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements which are two-dimensionally arranged for each of the plurality of optical systems and are used to photoelectrically convert an image from each optical system, and inter-frame prediction encodes a plurality of image frames each having a different parallax, which are formed by the plurality of photoelectric conversion elements. |
| US09609189B2 |
Camera module
There is provided a camera module including a lens barrel including at least one lens disposed on an optical axis, a housing having the lens barrel disposed therein, and an infrared (IR) filter bonded to an inside of the housing and disposed below the lens barrel, wherein the IR filter has a coating material applied to a portion of one surface thereof so as to block diffusely reflected light. |
| US09609183B2 |
Camera module and electronic device including the same
There is provided a camera module including: a lens housing in which a lens is disposed; a glass cover formed of a transparent material and covering the lens housing; and a coil conductive part formed between an outer surface of the lens and an inner surface of the glass cover. |
| US09609182B1 |
Context and content based automated image and media sharing
Digital media can be automatically transferred between a digital capture device or storage device and one or more other devices with little or no user intervention. Media can be selected for automatic transfer based on one or more media-content or media-context characteristics. |
| US09609177B2 |
To generate a print specification color separation look-up table
In a method to generate a print specification color separation look-up table, a device color space is sampled to provide at least one sampled value. The sampled value is transformed to a device independent color space. The transformed sampled value is gamut mapped using a source color gamut and a color separation color gamut to provide a color separation value. The gamut mapping is performed in an expansion mode and a compression mode. |
| US09609175B2 |
Method for generating PDF trapping objects without knowing the description of the contours
A method for creating PDF trapping objects from a PDF page description without a known contour description by using a computer for a printing process includes using the computer to generate a colored tiling pattern out of a part of the PDF page description without the top object to be choked, using the computer for clipping with a mask of the background object, using the computer for clipping with the top object or text to limit following frame additions to the top object, using the computer for adding a frame to the top object, using the generated colored tiling pattern as an inner frame between the background object and the top object, using the computer for adding a frame to the top object while activating overprinting of the background in the required object colors and using the computer for inserting the trapped top object into the PDF page description. |
| US09609170B1 |
Method and apparatus for generating a multi-layer correlation mark via a monochrome printer
A method, non-transitory computer readable medium and apparatus for generating a multi-layer correlation mark via a monochrome printer are disclosed. For example, the method includes setting a first scalar value of a channel of the monochrome printer, setting a second scalar value of the channel of the monochrome printer, generating a first layer of the multi-layer correlation mark at the first scalar value of the channel, generating a second layer of the multi-layer correlation mark at the second scalar value of the channel and printing the multi-layer correlation mark comprising the first layer at the first scalar value of the channel and the second layer at the second scalar value of the channel. |
| US09609169B2 |
Interactive decor
Interactive décor and systems and methods of printing an interactive pattern using an inkjet printer are disclosed. An interactive décor may comprise a substrate, and an interactive pattern printed on the substrate. The interactive pattern is addressable using a reader device, but is substantially indiscernible to a naked eye at a viewing distance. A decorative image is printed over the interactive pattern. The decorative image is predominant to the naked eye. |
| US09609168B2 |
Printing apparatus
A printing apparatus, including an image reader unit, a printer unit, and a controller, is provided. The controller executes an image reading process; a printing process; a standby process to hold the printer unit in a second condition, wherein the printer unit is enabled to print through a preparatory action, on standby during a time period between completion of the printing process and elapse of a standby period; a shifting process to shift the printer unit from the second condition to a first condition, wherein the preparatory action is required to enable the printer unit to print; and a changing process, wherein, if a document cover in the image reading unit is open during the time period between the completion of the printing process and elapse of the standby period, the standby period is changed from a first period to a second period that is longer than the first period. |
| US09609166B2 |
Transporting apparatus and printing apparatus including the same
Transporting apparatus includes a transporting section configured to transport continuous-form paper, an imaging apparatus including a light applying section for emitting light toward the continuous-form paper, and an imaging element for taking images of continuous-form paper based on the light from the light applying section, a transportation amount computing section configured to compute the transportation amount of the continuous-form paper based on the images of the continuous-form paper, and a transporting control section configured to control the transporting section based on the transportation amount. The imaging element includes a valid pixel area including a plurality of pixels where electric charge can be accumulated in accordance with the light reflected on the continuous-form paper, and a shading area including a plurality of pixels where the reflected light can be shaded. The light applying section emits light within a duration of reading a pixel signal of the shading area. |
| US09609158B2 |
Image forming device with plate partioning reverse path and buffer unit
An image forming device having a printer unit, a post-processing unit, and an eject tray. The printer unit forms images on recording sheets, and the post-processing unit performs processing on a recoding sheet stack composed of one or more recording sheets output from the printer unit before the recording sheet stack is ejected onto the eject tray. The image forming device includes: a buffer unit that, while a first recording sheet resides in the post-processing unit for the post-processing, holds a second recording sheet therein, the second recording sheet output from the printer unit subsequent to the first recording sheet; and a reverse path that reverses recording sheets when the image forming device performs duplex printing. In a plan view of the image forming device taken along a vertical direction, the post-processing unit, the buffer unit, and the reverse path at least partially cover one another. |
| US09609156B2 |
Function execution apparatus, function execution method, and non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions therefor
A function execution method includes a selection step in which the a user is encouraged to select multiple shortcut functions to be executed subsequently from among a registered plurality shortcut functions each of which is configured to be executed with user of a preliminarily setting value necessary for executing the particular function, a continuous execution registration step in which a continuous execution function configured to execute the multiple shortcut functions selected in the selection step such that the multiple functions are executed in accordance with a particular order, a displaying step in which a continuous execution key corresponding to the continuous execution functions registered in the continuous execution registration step, and a continuous execution step in which, when the continuous execution key displayed by the displaying step is selected, the controller executes the multiple shortcut functions constituting the continuous execution function in accordance with the execution order. |
| US09609155B2 |
Image processing device, image processing method, and storage medium storing image processing program
A print order reception apparatus displays one of an image selection screen and an editing content changing screen. In the image selection screen, a list display area for showing a plurality of thumbnail images and a finished print display area for showing target images, which are selected in the list display area, in a finished state are displayed side by side. In the editing content changing screen, the finished print display area and an editing command display area for showing edit buttons each for editing the target images are displayed side by side. A selection section selects and displays any one of the screens. |
| US09609154B2 |
Image display operation device and image forming apparatus including the image display operation device
An image forming apparatus includes a document reader, a storage for storing image data, an image output unit and a control unit. The control unit includes: a function setup controller for setting up the image output conditions of output images; and a control-unit side controller having a function of displaying a function setup screen corresponding to the function setup controller, on a display panel. The function setup controller has an additional input mode having a function of reading documents a multiple number of times to form multiple sheaves of documents. The additional input mode includes: an individual setup function of setting up individual image output conditions for each sheaf of documents and an all-in setup function of setting up identical image output conditions for all sheaves of documents. When the additional input mode is set up, the control unit-side controller offers a display of a setup change suggestion of the image output conditions for the next input on the display screen at the stage where the first image data input has been completed. |
| US09609152B2 |
System, user interface display control method, server, information processing apparatus and storage medium
A server provides a file to display a user interface to an information processing apparatus in accordance with a request from the information processing apparatus, and instructs the information processing apparatus to send the device information of the information processing apparatus to the server. The information processing apparatus acquires the device information of the information processing apparatus in accordance with the instruction, and sends, to the server, the device information of the information processing apparatus together with the request of the file to display the user interface. The server receives the device information of the information processing apparatus, and provides, to the information processing apparatus, the file to display the user interface based on the device information of the information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus displays, based on the provided file, the user interface based on the device information of the information processing apparatus. |
| US09609147B2 |
Non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer program for information processing device, information processing device, and method for controlling information processing device
An information processing device may receive first communication device identification information for identifying a first communication device that can be communicated using a first wireless communication interface. The information processing device may receive second communication device identification information for identifying a second communication device that can be communicated using a second wireless communication interface. The information processing device may display, on a display unit, a first image indicating the first communication device. The information processing device may display a second image indicating the second communication device identified by the received second communication device identification information. The displaying of the second image may be performed only in a case that particular information has not been received. The particular information may indicate that the second communication device identified by the received second communication device identification information can be communicated using the first wireless communication interface. |
| US09609146B2 |
Management system, management device and image forming apparatus
A management device performs any one of first processing where an image forming apparatus whose operation set as a mode transfer operation is the same as an unauthorized operation detecting image forming apparatus is made to change the presently set mode transfer operation, second processing where image forming apparatuses which belong to a group that the unauthorized operation detecting image forming apparatus belongs to are made to change the presently set mode transfer operation and third processing where the image forming apparatuses which belong to the group that the unauthorized operation detecting image forming apparatus belongs to are prevented from being transferred to a maintenance mode. |
| US09609144B2 |
Method for policy control and charging for D2D services
Systems and methods are provided for providing policy control and charging for device to device (D2D) services. A network entity transmits, to at least one mobile entity, configuration data including device-to-device data, and receives, from the at least one mobile entity, an accounting report associated with device-to-device communication. The network entity transmits, to a charging function entity, a charging report based on the accounting report received from the at least one mobile entity. A policy control function entity performs a policy control and enforcement based at least on the accounting report received from the at least one mobile entity. |
| US09609139B1 |
Methods and systems for providing telecommunications services
The present invention is related to telecommunications. A call processing system receives a first call from a caller intended for a first person. A notification regarding the first call is transmitted over a network to a terminal associated with the first person. A user interface is displayed on the terminal via which the first person can indicate that a callback message is to be transmitted to the caller. The callback message is transmitted to the caller, wherein the callback message includes an identification of the first person, a callback control, and text indicating that the caller is to activate the control to initiate another call to the first person. At least partly in response to the caller activating the control, A second call to be placed via which the first person and caller are connected. |
| US09609134B2 |
Utilizing voice biometrics
Methods, systems, computer-readable media, and apparatuses for handling calls based on a voice biometric confidence score are presented. In some embodiments, a computing device may receive a voice sample associated with a telephone call. Subsequently, the computing device may determine a voice biometric confidence score based on the voice sample. The computing device then may determine to route the telephone call to a certain endpoint based on the voice biometric confidence score. |
| US09609128B2 |
Emergency signal for M2M devices
A method includes receiving, at a server connected to a network, a plurality of emergency alerts from a plurality of devices connected to the network. The method also includes analyzing, by the server, the plurality of emergency alerts to determine an emergency type of each of the plurality of emergency alerts. The method includes categorizing, by the server, the plurality of emergency alerts based on the emergency type of each of the plurality of emergency alerts. The method includes prioritizing a first category of the plurality of emergency alerts and consolidating the plurality of emergency alerts of the first category into a consolidated alert. The method includes causing the consolidated alert to be provided to an emergency responder. |
| US09609125B2 |
Control of telecommunications system
A telecommunications server (2) controlling a plurality of telecommunications terminals (4) connected to a packet switched telecommunications system (40, 41), responds to call events (20) by transmitting an alert (251, 252) to each of the terminals. If the server is not capable of processing all the required event alerts in parallel, it processes the event alerts to the terminals in a predetermined sequence, according to stored prioritization rules (60). The priority accorded to an individual terminal may be set according to the alert mode (visual-only, or audible) currently set for that terminal (or the user currently using the terminal) for that call type or calling party. |
| US09609124B2 |
Methods and systems for management of video and ring tones among mobile devices
Provided herein are methods and systems for a sender-controlled contact media content type that can be sent among mobile devices, including addressing the contacts systems and methods of such devices to provide rich interactions among users upon the occurrence of contact events. |
| US09609121B1 |
System and method for third party monitoring of voice and video calls
A system is described herein that facilitates the monitoring of inmate communications. The system provides a remotely-accessible means for a reviewer to monitor a call between an inmate and another person. The system includes a monitoring server and a monitoring station. The monitoring server is configured to receive a call and call information from a communication center and process the call for monitoring, schedule a review of the call; and store the call, the call information, and scheduling data. The monitoring station is configured to receive the call and the call information from the monitoring server based on the scheduling data, and to display the identifying information and facilitate the review of the call. |
| US09609116B2 |
Establishing an ad-hoc group based on addresses in an e-mail
This invention describes a method for establishing an ad-hoc group based on addresses of users in a message (e.g., an e-mail) received or sent using a pre-selected communication method (e.g., an e-mail communication) by an electronic device. Any recipient or a sender of the e-mail message can use the e-mail addresses in the message in order to establish a permanent (stored in the device) or a temporary (used immediately in a context of another communication application) ad-hoc group. The user may select all or only a part of the people (other users) into the ad-hoc group. The group-data can have several types of addresses of users such as phone numbers, SIP addresses, wireless village IDs, etc. needed in conjunction with desired applications. Creating the ad-hoc group from the e-mail message can utilize information that already exists in the electronic device and, if needed, acquired additional information from a remote service. |
| US09609108B2 |
Electronic device, control method, and control program
An electronic device according to one of aspects includes: a display for displaying a notification screen that includes a notification area for notifying information; and a controller for shifting, when detecting an operation, the notification screen displayed on the display to an editing screen for editing the notification screen. |
| US09609100B2 |
Tabletop mobile device and beverage holder
A retaining apparatus for propping an electronic mobile device in an upright orientation is provided. The retaining apparatus has two planar and opposing surfaces, wherein each surface provides an isosceles-trapezoidal slot. Though the two slots have different widths and lengths, they both provide tapering sidewalls that overhang bottom portions of the associated slot, thereby adapting each slot to selectively engage a peripheral edge of a mobile electronic device between the tapering sidewalls and the overhanging bottom portions, and in turn enabling the propping of the mobile electronic device in the upright orientation. Adjacent to each slot, the retaining apparatus may provide frictionally engaging material for removably securing a beverage container thereto. |
| US09609094B2 |
Mobile device
A mobile phone includes an antenna housing made of a resin, an insert metal plate made of a metal, which is buried in the antenna housing and has a connecting portion exposed from an outer surface of the antenna housing, and an antenna element provided on the outer surface of the antenna housing and brought into contact with the connecting portion. A boundary between a region where the antenna element is in contact with the connecting portion and a region where the antenna element is in contact with the antenna housing is nonlinear. With this structure, a mobile device is provided in which deterioration of the antenna performance is reduced even in the event of being subjected to an excessive external shock. |
| US09609091B2 |
Transceiver that indicates the packet bandwidth in a wireless OFDM network with multiple overlapped frequency bands
A wireless OFDM transceiver uses subcarrier characteristics, such as phase and amplitude, to detect the bandwidth of a received packet. By detecting different subcarrier characteristics in the long training symbols of a packet at the receiver, the packet is associated with different bandwidths. The different bandwidths are used in a wireless network where devices can communicate using different frequency bands that overlap one another and where one is wider than the other. |
| US09609090B2 |
Signaling method
A signaling method is provided by a device in a WLAN. The device includes signaling information in an address field, generates a MAC frame including the address field, and transmits a PHY frame including a data field into which the MAC frame is inserted. |
| US09609089B2 |
Identifying reset source and reason in a TCP session
A system, and computer program product for identifying reset source and reason in a TCP session are provided in the illustrative embodiments. A reset packet is prepared for the TCP session. An identifier associated with the target data processing system is added using a first header in the reset packet. The identifier associated with the target data processing system is unknown to a sender a data packet in the TCP session. The sender sends the data packet to another data processing system during the TCP session. A reason for resetting the TCP session is added using a second header in the reset packet. The TCP session is reset by sending the reset packet. |
| US09609088B2 |
Method for delivery of messages in a communication system
The invention relates to a method in which a message is received to a communication server from a node. The communication server obtains user information with recipient information in the message. The user information comprises user entity state and user entity protocol information. A first protocol is determined to become a preferred protocol based on the user entity protocol information. The delivery of said message is attempted with a delivery mechanism of the preferred protocol. A second protocol is determined to become the preferred protocol with said user entity protocol information upon a failure to deliver said message with said first protocol. The attempting of the delivery of said message is repeated with a delivery mechanism of the preferred protocol. |
| US09609086B2 |
Virtual machine mobility using OpenFlow
A method for migrating virtual machines (VMs) that includes creating a temporary storage area. The temporary storage area is created by a controller in a network that is in a first state. The configuration data for a VM is stored in the temporary storage area. The network is provisioned from the first state to a second state. The provisioning is by the controller and based on network locations of a source server and a target server. A message is transmitted to the target server. The message includes a request to migrate the VM from the source server to the target server, and an address of the temporary storage area. It is determined that the migration has completed and the temporary storage area is removed based on the determining that the migrant has completed. |
| US09609085B2 |
Broadcast-based update management
A first computing device establishes an update service associated with an identifier. When the first computing device receives a broadcast message from a second computing device that includes a network address of the second computing device, the first computing device transmits to the network address a message including the identifier associated with the update service. The update service receives from the second computing device a request including the identifier and in return transmits to the second computing device information about available updates. |
| US09609084B2 |
Optimizing multimedia streaming in WLANs (wireless local access networks) with a remote SDN (software-defined networking) controller
An SDN controller to provision network resources at a data plane to keep progressive downloads of multimedia files proportional to encoding rates is disclosed. Packets from a new or unknown flow being downloaded at a default rate are forwarded from an access point, or other device, to an SDN controller for analysis. If a progressive download of a multimedia file (e.g., a video file) in progress is detected, an encoding rate of frames for the multimedia file is determined. A target download rate for the multimedia file at the access point is determined based on the encoding rate, in an embodiment. Other optional factors also take into account network-wide data plane information gathered by the SDN controller from various points on the network. Additionally, a playback history for a particular multimedia file can affect the target download rate, based on whether, for example, a file is likely to be quickly halted. |
| US09609080B2 |
Systems and methods for device identity delegation for application software
A method implemented in a delegating server for binding a device identity to a software application comprises receiving registration data from a client device executing a software application and assigning a device identifier to the client device and registering the client device with the delegating server based on the registration data. The method further comprises facilitating communication between the client device and the service provider based on the device identifier, wherein the delegating server is located between the client device and the service provider. |
| US09609079B1 |
Methods for improved cache maintenance and devices thereof
A method, non-transitory computer readable medium, and application acceleration management (AAM) computing device that modifies an obtained master playlist file such that a first set of meta information is appended to a network address of a secondary playlist file. The secondary playlist file is obtained and modified such that the first and second sets of meta information are appended to a network address of a media file. Alternatively to modifying the playlist files, first and second cookies including the first set of meta information and the first and second sets of meta information, respectively, can be used. A cache score is generated for the media file based on the first and second sets of meta information included in a request for the media file. The media file is obtained, stored in a cache as associated with the cache score, and sent in response to the request. |
| US09609076B1 |
Criteria-based data push
Embodiments relate to criteria-based data push. An aspect includes receiving, by a criteria request server, a data push request from a user, the data push request specifying criteria for particular data to be pushed and a user device to receive the particular data. Another aspect includes forwarding the data push request to an incoming data monitor. Another aspect includes monitoring, by the incoming data monitor, incoming data received from one or more content providers. Yet another aspect includes, based on detecting the particular data that is specified by the data push request in the incoming data by the incoming data monitor, pushing the particular data to the user device. |
| US09609069B2 |
Administering a remote session between a target computing device and a remote computing device
Administering a remote session between a target computing device and a remote computing device, including: identifying, by a remote session administration module, a confidentiality level of content displayed by a target computing device, the target computing device engaged in a remote session with remote computing device, the remote session carried out by software executed by the target computing device, software executed by the remote computing device, and an active data communication link between the target computing device and the remote computing device; and controlling, by the remote session administration module, the remote session in dependence upon the confidentiality level of content displayed by the target computing device. |
| US09609067B2 |
Proxy captive portal traffic for input-limited devices
A system for registering an input-limited device such as a media player with a captive access point that requires completion of a portal web page prior to allowing client devices access to a network such as the Internet. Such captive access points are commonly found in hotels, and may be used for both freely provided public WiFi and for connections that require providing payment. For registration, the input-limited device operates as a proxy, relaying communications with the captive access point back-and-forth to a second device with rich user-input capabilities via an independent communications channel. Registration information is provided to the access point as though it originated with the media player, allowing the media player to acquire access to the network. |
| US09609066B2 |
Enhanced discovery for ad-hoc meetings
Systems, methods, and software are disclosed herein for enhancing ad-hoc online meetings. In an implementation, a service client receives an initial handoff of an online session from an initial service client that was ongoing between the initial service client and at least one other service client. The service client detects when proximate to an in-room service client. When proximate to the in-room service client, the service client initiate a subsequent handoff of the online session to the in-room service client. |
| US09609065B2 |
Bridge for implementing a converged network protocol to facilitate communication between different communication protocol networks
Provided are a computer program product, system, and method for implementing a converged network protocol to facilitate communication between different communication protocol networks. There are configuration parameters in a memory for communication between the first adaptor implementing a first communication protocol and the second adaptor in a converged network protocol to indicate to the second adaptor that the converged network protocol is supported. A packet is received at the first adaptor encoded in a second communication protocol directed to a third communication protocol network, forwarded to the second adaptor, and then forwarded to the third communication protocol network. A command is received at the second adaptor, directed to the first adaptor, to implement a first function in the converged network protocol for communication between the first and second adaptors. A second function in the first communication protocol to implement the first function is transmitted to the first adaptor. |
| US09609063B2 |
Method, device and system for logging in Unix-like virtual container
Various embodiments of the present disclosure describe a method, apparatus and system for logging in a Unix-like virtual container. The method include establishing a corresponding relationship between a Unix-like virtual container and a port on a host running the Unix-like virtual container; establishing a transparent pipe between the Unix-like virtual container and the host port based on the corresponding relationship, establishing a first connection between the Unix-like virtual container and the host port based on the transparent pipe; receiving a script command through the host port, and sending the script command to the Unix-like virtual container according to the first connection. Employing embodiments of the present disclosure, the Unix-like virtual container can be logged in through the connection between the host port and the Unix-like virtual container, the information security of the Unix-like virtual container can be ensured, and the access efficiency can be improved through asynchronous access. |
| US09609062B2 |
Semantic mappings from human readable messages to programmatic interfaces
A mechanism for semantically mapping Internet of Things (IoT) devices maps human-readable information from an Internet of Things (IoT) device to a programmatic interface to enable a user to control the IoT device. The human-readable information includes at least one of text, video, audio, haptics, and images. |
| US09609059B2 |
Synchronization of shared identifiers across servers in an IMS network
Methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, are described for synchronization of shared initial filter criteria in an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) network. A first computing device in the IMS network transmits a registration request to a second computing device in the IMS network. The first computing device receives a response to the registration request from the second computing device, including an identifier associated with a shared initial filter criteria set stored at the first computing device. The first computing device determines whether the shared initial filter criteria set corresponding to the identifier is stored at the first computing device and transmits a retrieval request to the second computing device if the shared initial filter criteria set corresponding to the identifier is not stored. The first computing device receives the shared initial filter criteria set from the second computing device, and stores the shared initial filter criteria set. |
| US09609054B2 |
Load balancing scalable storage utilizing optimization modules
A method includes determining that a trigger condition of a triggered optimization module of a plurality of optimization modules is met and optimizing scalable storage based on an optimization routine. The optimization routine includes providing a plurality of candidate operations and for a selected optimization module of the plurality of optimization modules that has a higher priority than the triggered optimization module, removing a candidate operation from the plurality of candidate operations that would diminish a modeled state of the scalable storage for the selected optimization module. The optimization routine also includes determining at least one operation of the plurality of candidate operations that would improve the modeled state of the scalable storage for the triggered optimization module and updating the modeled state of the scalable storage to model executing the at least one operation. The method further includes executing the at least one operation. |
| US09609053B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for voice service access
A scheduling server receives a voice service group access request from a user terminal, wherein the voice service group access request carries an identifier of a voice service group that a user of the user terminal is to join. The scheduling server determines a candidate voice server set according to a region where the user terminal is located and/or a network operator of the user terminal. If the number of online users in the voice service group identified by the identifier in the voice service group access request does not exceed a predefined threshold, a relationship between the voice service group and a first voice server providing services for the voice service group is found in a storage area and the first voice server belongs to the candidate voice server set, the user terminal accesses the voice service group via the first voice server. |
| US09609052B2 |
Distributing application traffic to servers based on dynamic service response time
A service gateway processes a service request received from a host by: relaying the service request from the service gateway to a server over a service session between the service gateway and the server; determining a service request time for the service session; receiving by the service gateway a service response from the server; determining by the service gateway a service response time; calculating by the service gateway a service processing time for the service request from the service request time and the service response time; comparing the service processing time with an expected service processing time; and updating a server busy indicator for the server in response to the comparing. If the service processing time exceeds the expected service processing time, the server busy indicator is updated to indicate that the server is busy. Otherwise, the server busy indicator is updated to indicate that the server is not busy. |
| US09609049B2 |
Frame-rate conversion in a distributed computing system
Described herein are, among other things, distributed processing methods and systems for frame rate conversion. In an embodiment, a transcoding management machine manages a distributed transcoding process, creating a plurality of video segments and assigning the video segments across a set of distributed transcoding resources for frame rate conversion. The management machine typically sends a given segment to a given transcoding resource along with instructions to convert the frame rate to a specified output frame rate. In addition, the management machine can send certain transcoding assistance information that preferably facilitates the frame rate change process and helps the transcoding resource to create a more accurate output segment. Hence, in some embodiments, each transcoding resource can perform its transcode job independently, but with reference to the input segment it is responsible for transcoding and the assistance information provided by the management machine. |
| US09609047B2 |
Cloud computing infrastructure
A first node comprises a web server with a network interface configured to connect the web server to a plurality of second nodes of a cloud infrastructure. The first node has physical storage, connected to the web server, the physical storage comprising at least a master database of a multi-master database system of the cloud computing infrastructure, the master database configured to store atomic code units and data redundantly as part of the multi-master database system, the atomic code units defining the dynamic web application. The web server receives requests comprising input data and identifiers of individual ones of the atomic code units, at least some of the requests originating from client devices using the dynamic web application. The web server executes, in response to requests, individual ones of the atomic code units in dependence on state of the master database, such that the dynamic web application is executed. |
| US09609046B2 |
Lane level road views
Methods for providing a lane-level road view include: (a) accessing lane-specific data comprising information characterizing a first segment of a first lane of a road in a direction of travel; and (b) communicating at least a portion of the lane-specific data to a client. Apparatuses for providing lane-level road views are described. |
| US09609045B2 |
Information processing system and data management method
The server device includes: an allocation unit for allocating a unique identifier to each of first data and second data; a management unit for managing a correspondence between the identifier and a method for accessing the first data or second data identified by the identifier; a presentation unit for presenting the identifier managed by the management unit to the client device; a conversion unit for converting an identifier-specifying request for access to the first data or second data from the client device into a method for accessing the first data or second data corresponding to the identifier using an access method associated by the management unit with the identifier; and a data access unit for requesting access to the first data or second data using the access method converted to by the conversion unit, and sending an access result to the client device. |
| US09609040B2 |
Efficient bitrate adaptation in video communications over IP networks
Systems and methods of dynamically adapting multimedia data transmit rates of data senders to available bandwidths of data receivers, in which the available bandwidths are estimated by the data senders using at least reception quality feedback information provided in real-time transport control protocol (RTCP) report packets. The data senders can obtain several bandwidth estimation parameters, such as a packet loss ratio and a round trip delay, from the reception quality feedback information, as well as multimedia data transmit rates from the data senders to the data receivers, and obtain estimates of the available bandwidths of the data receivers using at least the bandwidth estimation parameters and multimedia data transmit rates. Further, using the estimated available bandwidth, the data senders can dynamically adapt the multimedia data transmit rates to the available bandwidths for more reliably achieving the quality of experience (QoE) desired and/or required for multimedia data transmissions. |
| US09609039B2 |
Splice signalling buffer characteristics
In one method embodiments, providing a transport stream to a client device, the transport stream comprising a head stream and a tail stream, the head stream and the tail stream each comprising a compressed video sequence; providing information in a transport stream packet associated with the head stream, the information configured to cause the client device to selectively control an output of at least one of a plurality of pictures of the head stream yet to be output from a decoded picture buffer (DPB) at an out-point from the head stream to the trail stream. |
| US09609038B2 |
Scaling content communicated over a network
An architecture is provided that can scale content resolution in order to mitigate errors in a provisioned service of a communication network, such as a wireless service or a femtocell service that integrates with DSL or other broadband carriers. The architecture can identify fault conditions relating to e.g., bandwidth oversubscription or symbolization integrity. Based upon such identification, the architecture can alter encoding format codecs of certain types of content in order to reduce their resolution/quality, thereby mitigating bandwidth oversubscription fault conditions or freeing up space (without necessarily increasing bandwidth) to insert additional FEC code. |
| US09609037B2 |
System and method for transferring playlists
A method, computer program product and computing device for selecting at least one playlist for transfer, the at least one playlist being stored on a first personal media device. The at least one playlist is converted to a common format, thus generating a first common format playlist. Communication is established with a second personal media device. The first common format playlist is transferred to the second personal media device. |
| US09609034B2 |
Methods and apparatus for transcoding metadata
Methods and apparatus for transcoding metadata are disclosed. Example methods disclosed herein to meter media content presented by a media device includes accessing first metadata accompanying media to be presented by the media device, the first metadata not being detectable by a metering device collecting audience measurement data associated the media device, transcoding the first metadata into second metadata having a format that is detectable by the metering device and capable of being inserted into at least one of an audio signal or a video signal corresponding to the media to presented by the media device, inserting the second metadata into the at least one of the audio signal or the video signal, and providing the at least one of the audio signal or the video signal with the inserted second metadata to the media device for presentation. |
| US09609031B1 |
Propagating state information to network nodes
Method and apparatus for propagating state information updates are disclosed. In the method and apparatus, a node establishes connections with one or more nodes of a plurality of nodes based at least in part on the number of connections retained by each node of the plurality of nodes. The node may then propagate state information updates to the one or more nodes. |
| US09609030B2 |
Immersive and interactive videoconference room environment
An arrangement for a collaborative videoconferencing environment is disclosed. A display having a substantially “L-shaped” configuration allows for display of collaborative materials and video of remote participants simultaneously, which provides for a more natural interaction for a meeting participant interacting with the collaborative materials. Additionally, a camera is arranged to focus on the meeting participants shoulder while the meeting participant is interacting with the collaborative materials. Such location of the camera provides a more natural view of the collaborator to remote users. |
| US09609027B2 |
Communication system architecture
Disclosed herein is an instance of a media modality controller of a communication system which is assigned to convey media modality control signals of a communication event to respective media modality agents of endpoints of the communication event without accessing respective call agents of the endpoints. The media modality controller instance is so assigned independently of a call controller of the communication system and responsive to an instruction received via the network. The media modality controller instance is released from said assignment responsive to the media modality controller instance returning a response to the received instruction while the call controller continues to operate in communication with the call agents of the endpoints. |
| US09609025B1 |
Protection of sensitive data from unauthorized access
A method and associated computing system. Data received by a computing environment includes a mixture of non-sensitive data and sensitive data along with related metadata indicative of a sensitivity of the sensitive data. The computing system includes the computing environment. An operation is performed on the sensitive data in the computing environment by: (a) determining that the data used for the operation are sensitive data, (b) intercepting the operation on the sensitive data, and (c) registering newly created sensitive data, as a result of the operation, with metadata indicating one or more addresses of the sensitive data. An external access to the sensitive data in the computing environment is intercepted. A compliance firewall rule is applied to the sensitive data intended to leave the computing environment. The compliance firewall rule defines an action to be applied to the sensitive data such that the sensitive data are protected against unauthorized access. |
| US09609020B2 |
Systems and methods to enforce security policies on the loading, linking, and execution of native code by mobile applications running inside of virtual machines
Methods and systems described herein relate to enhancing security on a device by enforcing one or more policies on the loading, linking, and/or executing of native code by one or more applications executing on the device. |
| US09609017B1 |
Methods for preventing a distributed denial service attack and devices thereof
A method, non-transitory computer readable medium and global traffic manager computing device for preventing distributed denial of service attack comprising machine executable code which when executed by at least one processor, causes the processor to perform steps including obtaining network information relating to a request in response to receiving the request. A rating is determined for the obtained network information based on one or more network parameters. An action to be taken for the received request is determined based on a comparison of the determined rating and a threshold rating. The determined action is executed for the received request. |
| US09609015B2 |
Systems and methods for dynamic cloud-based malware behavior analysis
A cloud-based method, a behavioral analysis system, and a cloud-based security system can include a plurality of nodes communicatively coupled to one or more users, wherein the plurality of nodes each perform inline monitoring for one of the one or more users for security comprising malware detection and preclusion; and a behavioral analysis system communicatively coupled to the plurality of nodes, wherein the behavioral analysis system performs offline analysis for any suspicious content from the one or more users which is flagged by the plurality of nodes; wherein the plurality of nodes each comprise a set of known malware signatures for the inline monitoring that is periodically updated by the behavioral analysis system based on the offline analysis for the suspicious content. |
| US09609014B2 |
Method and apparatus for preventing insertion of malicious content at a named data network router
An object-forwarding device can block a malicious Content Object from being inserted into an Interest's reverse path over a named data network. During operation, the device can receive a Content Object via a first interface, and can perform a lookup operation in a Pending Interest Table (PIT) to identify a PIT entry for an Interest associated with the Content Object. The device then determines, from the PIT entry, an egress interface used to forward the Interest. If the device determines that the egress interface of the PIT entry matches the first interface for the Content Object, the device forwards the Content Object via a return interface specified in the PIT entry. On the other hand, if the egress interface of the PIT entry does not match the first interface for the Content Object, the device can block the Content Object. |
| US09609012B2 |
Detection of infected network devices and fast-flux networks by tracking URL and DNS resolution changes
A system and method for detecting Fast-Flux malware are presented. Domain name system (DNS) lookup requests to DNS servers from a local area network (LAN) to a wide area network (WAN) are monitored. The DNS lookup requests comprise requests to resolve uniform resource locators (URLs) to network addresses. The network addresses (IP) received from the DNS servers for the DNS lookup requests are monitored provide a URL-to-IP associations list. The DNS servers used for the DNS lookup requests for the URLs are monitored to provide a DNS Domain-to-DNS server associations list. A suspicious URL log based on the URL-to-IP associations list, and a suspicious DNS log based on the DNS Domain-to-DNS server associations list are generated. |
| US09609005B2 |
Cross-view malware detection
In an example, a cross-view detection engine is disclosed for detecting malware behavior. Malware may attempt to avoid detection by remaining in volatile memory for as long as possible, and writing to disk only when necessary. To avoid detection, the malware may also provide a pseudo-driver at a file system level that performs legitimate-looking dummy operations. A firmware-level driver may simultaneously perform malicious operations. The cross-view detection engine detects this behavior by deconstructing call traces from the file system-level operations, and reconstructing call traces from firmware-level operations. If the traces do not match, the object may be flagged as suspicious. |
| US09608992B2 |
Mobile terminal device
A mobile terminal device includes a display control module 100 performing display control on display modules 11 and 21 and a setting module 100 setting an icon to be kept secret according to a setting operation. In this arrangement, the display control module 100 performs control such that the secret icon set by the setting module 100 is not included in an icon display screen. |