| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US09827048B2 |
Integrated surgical implant delivery system and method
Systems and methods for medical device inventory tracking are described. One embodiment is a medical device inventory tracking system, including a shipping container configured to contain a medical device, a sensor coupled to the shipping container and configured to detect the presence of the medical device, and a processing circuit integrated into the shipping container and configured to receive a signal from the sensor and perform an action based upon the signal. Another embodiment is a system for monitoring a surgical procedure using a medical device in an operating room, including a camera and display mounted in the operating room and a telecommunications interface configured to permit a videoconference between personnel in the operating room and a product specialist associated with the medical device using the display and the camera. |
| US09827047B2 |
Control apparatus and control method of insertion apparatus, insertion apparatus having control apparatus, control program for insertion apparatus, and controlling integrated electronic circuit of insertion apparatus
A control apparatus of an insertion apparatus in which a state specifying unit specifies a state of an insertion member to carry out vibration control depending on the state, thereby removing getting-stuck of a tip of the insertion member with a vibration having such a proper magnitude as not to cause an overload in a case where the tip of the insertion member is gotten stuck. |
| US09827045B2 |
Laser waveguide device and laser waveguide system
A laser light waveguide device includes laser light provision units that oscillate and cause laser light to exit; a laser light waveguide path formed of an optical fiber capable of guiding the laser light; and a control unit that controls the laser light provision units. The control unit detects an illumination spot (output of the visible laser light) based on a captured image, captured by an image capturing unit, of a laser light illumination area and an area close thereto illuminated with the laser light, and controls exit of the infrared laser light by the infrared laser light provision unit based on a result of detection of the illumination spot (output of the visible laser light). |
| US09827044B2 |
Combined galvanic and pulsed optical energy for depilation
A method for photothermolysis that includes applying galvanic current energy to skin at an area of a hair follicle and applying pulsed optical energy to the skin at the area of the hair follicle at an energy level and duration so as to cause thermal destruction of a hair papilla. |
| US09827030B2 |
Cartridge system having connected feed plungers
Cartridge system for mixing and applying a mix of a medical cement. Cartridges are arranged parallel to each other and an outlet opening. The cartridges each comprise at least one opening that connect(s) the cartridges to the outlet opening, and the cartridges are bordered laterally through cartridge walls. Each cartridge comprises a feed plunger for expelling starting components of the mix from the cartridges through the openings. The feed plungers are fixedly connected to each other through at least one fin. The cartridge walls of the cartridges are connected through the fin(s). The walls comprise slits that are arranged parallel to the cartridge axis, whereby the width of the slits is well-suited for taking up the fin or fins, and the at least one fin moves through regions of the slits when the feed plungers perform a motion in the cartridges. |
| US09827027B2 |
Orthopedic anchor assembly
An orthopedic assembly is described that comprises an orthopedic device, an anchor, and a locking mechanism. The orthopedic device can be a plate member having an aperture that is configured to receive the anchor. The anchor can include a head, neck and shank portion. The head portion can include a plurality of arms separated by grooves that are capable of splaying. The assembly is configured such that when the locking mechanism is inserted into the head portion, this causes expansion of the arms of the head. This expansion locks and secures the anchor to the orthopedic device. Various instruments are provided that can deliver the locking mechanism to the anchor, and can provide impact to lock functionality. |
| US09827024B2 |
Devices and methods for breaking and retaining surgical reduction tabs
Various devices and methods for breaking and retaining surgical reduction tabs are provided. In general, the devices and methods can allow a single surgical instrument to break a plurality of surgical reduction tabs off one or more surgical implants and retain the broken tabs within the instrument. In an exemplary embodiment, a surgical instrument can include an opening at a distal end thereof that is configured to receive a surgical reduction tab therein when the tab is connected to a surgical implant. A retention element at least partially disposed within the instrument can be configured to engage the tab received in the opening so as to hold the tab securely within the instrument. With the tab received in the opening and held by the retention element, the surgical instrument can be configured to be manipulated to break the tab off the surgical implant. The broken tab can be retained within the surgical instrument by being held therein by the retention element. The instrument can be repeatedly relocated and repeatedly break off surgical reduction tabs of one or more surgical implants, with each successive tab received in the opening displacing the immediately preceding broken tab from the retention element such that a chamber formed in the instrument can simultaneously hold a plurality of broken tabs within the instrument. |
| US09827022B2 |
Growth modulation system
A spinal management system includes a stabilizing member adapted to extend substantially longitudinally along a target region of a spine tending to exhibit a defective curvature and a set of stabilizing anchors adapted for fixation to vertebrae and to receive the stabilizing member to secure the stabilizing member against substantial transverse translation relative to the vertebrae. The system also includes a first correction anchor adapted for fixation to a vertebra, a second correction anchor adapted for fixation to a vertebra, and a connection between the stabilizing member and the first correction anchor and between the first and second correction anchors adapted such that when the connection is tensioned a compressive force is selectively exerted between the first and second correction anchors. |
| US09827021B2 |
Transverse connector
The present disclosure provides a transverse connector having first and second spinal rod connecting members disposed on opposing ends of a cross member. Each spinal rod connecting member is configured to connect to a spinal rod. The first and second spinal rod connecting members are configured for multidirectional articulation relative to the cross member. |
| US09827020B2 |
Percutaneous spinal cross link system and method
A percutaneous spinal cross link system for interconnecting a spinal fusion construct on one side of the longitudinal axis of the spine with a spinal fusion construct on the other side of the longitudinal axis may include a cross bar connected at each end by a respective connector to a respective spinal fusion rod of each of the spinal fusion constructs. The connector may include a rod receiving portion adapted to receive one of the spinal fusion rods and a cross bar receiving portion adapted receive the cross bar in an orientation generally perpendicular to the spinal fusion rod. A cannula defined by two spaced apart blades may be connected to the connector for defining a minimally invasive pathway through body tissue for introduction of the cross bar to the connector. Other tools for use with the system are also disclosed. |
| US09827017B2 |
Spinal correction and secondary stabilization
Methods of correcting a spinal deformity, including securing a first rod on a first side of a spine, securing an anchor on a second side of a spine, securing a lateral coupling between the rod and the anchor, translating and derotating the spine to correct the spinal deformity by adjusting an effective length of the lateral coupling, and securing a second rod on a second side of the spine to provide secondary stabilization to the spine. |
| US09827016B2 |
Modular vertebral stabilizer
A stabilizer device for the spinal column, comprising a first body (2) and a second body (2) adapted to be mutually connected by a rod-like element (5), the first and second bodies (2) being adapted to be fitted around first and second pedicle screws (3), which are adapted to be inserted in turn in two mutually adjacent vertebrae, the first and second bodies (2) being fixable on the pedicle screws (3), the first and second bodies (2) being fork-shaped and adapted to accommodate locking means (20), the locking means (20) being adapted to pass from a position for accommodating the pedicle screw (3) to a position for locking the pedicle screw (3) within the fork-shaped body (2). |
| US09827011B2 |
Polyaxial pivot housing for external fixation system
A polyaxial pivot housing for an external fixation system, comprising a collet body having a threaded portion; a spherical member configured to be partially received by a cavity that is formed in the collet body, the spherical member having a threaded post that is configured to attach to a support member of an external fixation frame; and a threaded locking collar that is configured to orientationally lock the threaded post with respect to the external fixation frame by compressing the spherical member into the cavity as the threaded locking collar is mated with the threaded portion of the collet body. |
| US09827007B2 |
Tissue collection needle
A tissue collection needle with a hollow interior provides two opposing tips with beveled edges on facets that drive tissue toward the hollow interior where the tissue can be gathered and severed from surrounding tissue as the needle advances through a biological specimen. The points and bevels are advantageously formed from a minimal number of cuts amenable to rapid fabrication from readily available hollow needle stock. |
| US09827006B2 |
Method and apparatus for tissue grafting
Exemplary embodiments of apparatus and method for harvesting small portions of tissue (“micrografts”) to form grafts can be provided. For example, a hollow tube can be inserted into tissue at a donor site, where a distal end of the hollow tube can have two or more points or extensions to facilitate separation of the micrografts from the surrounding tissue. The exemplary apparatus can be provided that includes a plurality of such tubes for simultaneous harvesting of a plurality of micrografts. The harvested micrografts can have a small dimension, e.g., less than about 1 mm, or less than about 0.3 mm, which can promote healing of the donor site and/or viability of the harvested tissue. The micrografts can be approximately cylindrical or strip-shaped, and can be placed in a biocompatible matrix to form a graft or directly into tissue at the recipient site. Such exemplary micrografts can be obtained from skin or other types of tissue, e.g., various internal organs. |
| US09827005B2 |
Systems and methods for endoluminal valve creation
The present application pertains generally to medical systems and methods for creation of an autologous tissue valves within a mammalian body. In some embodiments, a system for creating an endoluminal valve from a blood vessel wall is provided. The system includes a tubular assembly having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end, a distal portion with a distal end, and a first lumen extending from the proximal end to a distal port located proximate the distal portion. The distal portion can have a supporting surface that extends in a longitudinal direction and is offset from a surface of the tubular assembly proximal the distal port. The system can further include a tissue dissection probe disposed within the first lumen. |
| US09826999B2 |
Methods and apparatus for treating disorders of the ear nose and throat
A device for dilating an ostium of a paranasal sinus of a human or animal subject may include: a handle; an elongate shaft having a proximal end coupled with the handle and extending to a distal end; a guidewire disposed through at least a portion of the shaft lumen; a dilator having a non-expanded configuration and an expanded configuration; and a slide member coupled with at least one of the guidewire or the dilator through the longitudinal opening of the shaft for advancing the guidewire and/or the dilator relative to the shaft. |
| US09826998B2 |
Clot retrieval system
Catheter-delivered endovascular medical devices are described. The devices may include a pull wire attached to a distal body. The distal body may be formed of a distal body outer body comprising a basket comprised of a plurality of cells defined by a plurality of basket strips and a distal body inner body located in the interior of the distal body outer body and comprising a plurality of distal braided mesh openings formed by a plurality of woven linear strands. The distal braided mesh openings may be smaller than the cells when the device is in the relaxed state. Methods of using and making the devices are also described. |
| US09826997B2 |
Retrieval device
An endoscopic device for retrieving an object from within a human body is disclosed. The device includes a support assembly, a transmitting assembly, a wire, and a net element. The support assembly has a base and a tubular member. The transmitting assembly includes a handle and a motion transmitting link fixed to the handle and extending through at least a portion of the tubular member. The wire defines a loop portion and two leg portions. A proximal end of each leg portion is secured to the link by a first connection and the two leg portions are secured to each other by at least a second connection distal from the first connection. The net element has a distally protruding portion secured to the loop portion and a proximally protruding portion secured relative to the leg portions. |
| US09826996B2 |
Systems and methods which remove material from blood vessel walls
Systems and methods for removing plaque from blood vessels by applying constant or time varying magnetic or electrical fields. In one embodiment a system includes winding configurations positioned about a central axis along which a body region may be placed. Each winding configuration generates a magnetic field in a direction which passes through the body region. A first winding configuration generates a first magnetic field component perpendicular to a second magnetic field component generated by a second winding configuration. In a related method for removing a deposit of plaque from a position along a wall of a blood vessel a magnetic field is applied which has a net direction predominantly orthogonal to the direction of the flow of blood through the vessel. |
| US09826992B2 |
Multiple portal guide
The present disclosure relates to a guide assembly. The guide assembly includes a guide having a body having a first set of marks and a joint including at least one through hole, the joint configured for sliding along the length of the body; and a first surgical device having a second set of marks, wherein the guide is coupled to the first surgical device and a longitudinal axis of the through hole is co-radial with a mark of the second set of marks when the joint is located at a mark of the first set of marks. Other guides are also disclosed. |
| US09826984B2 |
Drill with depth measurement system
A measurement system and method for determining a depth of penetration of a working portion of a surgical instrument (e.g., a rotating drill bit in a bore). A first sensor outputs a first signal representative of a displacement of the leading edge of the drill bit in the bore. A second sensor outputs a second signal representative of a force applied to the leading edge of the drill bit. A processor outputs a third signal representative of the depth of penetration of the leading edge of the drill bit when the leading edge of the drill bit passes from a first medium having a first density to a second medium having a second density. The third signal is based on the first and second signals. |
| US09826982B2 |
Distal femoral cutting guide
A method of positioning a femoral cutting guide on a distal end of a femur establishes at least a first reference plane to perform a distal femoral planar cut. The method includes inserting a mounting member into an intramedullary canal of the femur and coupling a bridge member to the mounting member. The method also includes placing a cutting guide member over a medial anterior portion of the distal femur. The cutting guide member has a first channel that establishes the first reference plane. The bridge member has a bridge channel. A wall of the bridge channel is inserted into the first channel of the cutting guide member. A mounting mechanism generates resistance between the bridge member and the cutting guide member. The resistance is overcome by positioning the cutting guide member relative to the femur. |
| US09826980B2 |
Occluder for occluding an atrial appendage and production process therefor
An occlusion device and a production process for it are described. The occlusion device consists of a mesh or braiding of at least one wire or thread wherein the occlusion device has been given a suitable design using a reshaping and/or heat-treatment process, is self-expandable, and is configured for secure anchoring in an atrial appendage of the left or right atrium of a heart. The occlusion device comprises a proximal retention region on a proximal end of the occlusion device a distal retention region and a central region between the proximal retention region and said distal retention region and wherein the occlusion device has a closed distal end without a holder, and wherein the occlusion device is at least partly of essentially spherical form, and hollow. |
| US09826979B2 |
Introducer and circular stapler
An introducer for being fitted with a circular stapler, is a flexible plastic member in a whole shape of conical with an inner cavity; the introducer has a proximal end and a distal end, outer diameter of the introducer is gradually increased from the distal end to the proximal end and a maximum outer diameter of the proximal end is less than or equal to a maximum outer diameter of a staple cartridge assembly; when pulled by an external force, the plastic member may be unwound spirally and finally forms a strip body capable of being disengaged from the circular stapler. The introducer provided by the present disclosure has the advantages that: as the maximum outer diameter of the introducer is approximately equal to the maximum outer diameter of the staple cartridge assembly, the process of introducing can be achieved without bad influence resulting from increasing the outer diameter of the circular stapler. Moreover, the introducer can be pulled out from the circular stapler in one piece in the form of a strip, so that the operation is convenient and no additional step can be added for the subsequent operation of the circular stapler. |
| US09826974B2 |
Suturing and knotting integrated device for laparaoscopic surgery and associated knotting assembly
A surgical suturing and knotting integrated device includes a knotting assembly and an operation/control apparatus. The knotting assembly has a suture pre-tied with a slipknot and a loop. In use, the knotting assembly is mounted on a front end of the operation/control apparatus and the front end of the operation/control apparatus is extended into a patient's abdominal cavity to perform laparoscopic surgery. In suturing process, the operation/control apparatus is used to enlarge the loop of the suture, whereby the suture and one end of the suturing needle can be easily passed through the loop. Then, the operation/control apparatus is used to minify the loop and detach the slipknot of the suture from the knotting assembly and change the slipknot into a fixed knot. |
| US09826973B2 |
Method and apparatus for attaching tissue to bone, including the provision and use of a novel knotless suture anchor system
Apparatus for securing an object to bone, the apparatus comprising: an anchor, the anchor comprising: a body comprising an opening for receiving a filament therein; and a locking element movably mounted to the body for selectively locking the filament to the body; and an inserter for deploying the anchor in bone, the inserter comprising: a handle; an overtube extending distally from the handle; a carriage movably mounted to the handle; a shaft movably mounted within the overtube and connected to the carriage and releasably connected to the body of the anchor, the shaft being hollow; and a rod movably mounted within the shaft and connected to the locking element. |
| US09826971B2 |
Soft anchor made from suture filament and suture tape
An anchor is provided for placement in or against tissue. The anchor includes a fibrous construct and at least a first filament. Each filament passes through the construct in at least three passing locations including a first location nearest a first end of the construct, a last location nearest a second end of said construct, and at least one intermediate location between said first passing location and said last passing location. In an undeployed state, each filament extends a first length between said first location and said last location. In a deployed state, each filament extends a second length between the first location and the last location. The second length is shorter than said first length. |
| US09826969B2 |
Adjustable suture knot
Knots and methods of forming knots made of flexible material for use in a surgical environment are described. The knots include one or more ways to unlock at least a portion of the knot. |
| US09826968B2 |
Surgical access system and related methods
A system for accessing a surgical target site and related methods, involving an initial distraction system for creating an initial distraction corridor, and an assembly capable of distracting from the initial distraction corridor to a secondary distraction corridor and thereafter sequentially receiving a plurality of retractor blades for retracting from the secondary distraction corridor to thereby create an operative corridor to the surgical target site, both of which may be equipped with one or more electrodes for use in detecting the existence of (and optionally the distance and/or direction to) neural structures before, during, and after the establishment of an operative corridor to a surgical target site. |
| US09826964B2 |
Device, kit and method for closure of a body lumen puncture
A medical device and method for closure of a puncture in a body lumen are disclosed. The device has an aggregate (10) of a support structure (20) and a substantially fluid tight patch member (30) attached thereto at an attachment unit (40). The aggregate has a first, temporary delivery shape, for delivery to an interior of said body lumen and to be subsequently subjected to a change of shape to a second shape, which is a tubular shape. When delivered in said body lumen, the patch member is arranged radially outside of said tubular support structure and arranged towards an inner tissue wall of the body lumen. The aggregate is the detached from a delivery device and said puncture is intraluminally closed in a leakage tight manner, advantageously supported by a physiological pressure of a body fluid in said body lumen. The device may biodegrade over time. |
| US09826962B2 |
Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus
The ultrasound probe transmits and receives ultrasonic waves in different directions and the diagnostic apparatus body combines a plurality of images captured in the different directions of transmission and reception to produce an ultrasound image. In this process, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus measures the temperature of the ultrasound probe to change the ultrasound transmission and reception for producing a composite ultrasound image or makes the directions of transmission and reception in the last ultrasound image in one composite ultrasound image coincide with those in the first ultrasound image in its temporally adjacent composite ultrasound image. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus thus enables consistent ultrasound diagnosis against heat generated in the integrated circuit board of the ultrasound probe while simplifying the control of the ultrasound transmission and reception. |
| US09826955B2 |
Air conduction sensor and a system and a method for monitoring a health condition
According to embodiments of the present invention, an air conduction sensor for detecting a sound from a user is provided. The air conduction sensor includes a housing comprising an opening, wherein a rim of the opening is configured to at least substantially attach to a skin or a clothing of the user; a microphone coupled to the housing such that there is an air gap between the microphone and the skin or the clothing, and wherein the microphone is configured to detect the sound. A system and a method for monitoring a health condition of a user are also provided. |
| US09826950B2 |
Mammography apparatus and method to adjust or tune the mechanical settings of such a mammography apparatus
A method to adjust or tune mechanical settings of a mammography apparatus comprising an x-ray source, a paddle and a detector with a detector cover, wherein before executing an x-ray measurement a patient's breast is placed and compressed between the detector cover and the paddle, wherein prior to the x-ray measurement reaction forces between the mammography apparatus and the patient's breast are minimized. The invention relates further to a mammography apparatus comprising an x-ray source, a paddle and a detector with a detector cover, which apparatus is provided with at least one weighing means to measure the downwards forces exerted by (the part of) the apparatus above the weighing means towards the ground. |
| US09826948B2 |
X-ray detector and method of configuring the same
Provided is an X-ray detector including: a data transceiver configured to wirelessly receive identification (ID) information relating to a central controller from the central controller when the X-ray detector is in a sharing mode in which the X-ray detector exchanges certain data with the central controller; and a processor configured to perform a configuration based on the received ID information. |
| US09826945B2 |
Fail safe radiation concealment mechanism
An aspect of an embodiment of the invention, relates to an imaging capsule for scanning inside a living body with a fail-safe radiation mechanism that prevents the emission of radiation from the imaging capsule until the imaging capsule is instructed to emit radiation and power is available to activate a motor to unblock the emission of radiation. Optionally, when power is not available the imaging capsule automatically, blocks the emission of radiation. |
| US09826944B2 |
Radiation detector and X-ray CT apparatus provided therewith
An X-ray detector and an X-ray CT apparatus that facilitate collimator plate arrangement are characterized by comprising radiation detection element arrays in which a plurality of radiation detection elements detecting a radiation generated from a radiation source are arranged in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, collimator plates that are arranged along the first direction on the radiation source side of the radiation detection element arrays to remove scattered radiations, and collimator plate support members that have grooves supporting the collimator plate and are arranged along the second direction between the radiation detection elements. |
| US09826942B2 |
Correcting and reconstructing x-ray images using patient motion vectors extracted from marker positions in x-ray images
A method and a system for correcting and reconstruing a plurality of projection images based on detected patient motion. The method includes obtaining a plurality of projection images generated by a scanner. Each of the plurality of projection images includes at least three markers. Each of the at least three markers has a measured three-dimensional position and measured positions on a detector panel of the scanner in a first dimension and a second dimension. The method further includes determining a position error vector for each of the plurality of projection images based on the at least three markers in each of the plurality of projection images, the position error vector defining patient motion in the projection image. The method finally includes combining each position error vector for each of the plurality of projection images with geometric parameters associated with the scanner to derive a projection matrix for each of the plurality of projection images, and generating reconstructed images corrected for patient motion from the plurality of projection images and the projection matrix for each of the plurality of projection images. |
| US09826938B2 |
Motion compensation for optical heart rate sensors
A method of optical heart rate sensing includes receiving a motion frequency from a motion sensor and receiving an optical signal from an optical sensor. The motion frequency is then filtered from the optical signal, and an estimated heart rate frequency is determined based on the filtered optical signal. A heart rate is reported that is based on the motion frequency, but not based on the estimated heart rate frequency, when a local neighbor magnitude ratio of the estimated heart rate frequency is below a confidence threshold. |
| US09826937B2 |
Method and apparatus for reducing motion artifacts in ECG signals
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for reducing motion artifacts in ECG signals. According to an aspect of the present invention, there is proposed a method of reducing motion artifacts in ECG signals, comprising: acquiring a current beat from a continuously measured ECG signal of a patient; calculating a correlation coefficient between a previous mean value beat and the current beat in the ECG signal; determining the weights to be assigned to the previous mean value beat and the current beat based on the correlation coefficient; and calculating a current mean value beat based on the previous mean value beat, the current beat, and the weights thereof. Accordingly, the novel method of deriving the current mean value beat may reduce ECG artifacts due to patient movement in such a manner that the SNR of the ECG signal can be improved substantially. |
| US09826934B2 |
Non-invasive intracranial pressure system
Non-invasive intracranial pressure detection and/or monitoring and use of data with respect thereto. Illustratively, with respect to a method, there can be a method to digitally produce and communicate intracranial pressure data from skull deformation electric signals, the method including: receiving, from at least one sensor, detected skull deformation electric signals at electrical equipment configured to transform and process the skull deformation signals that are received; transforming and processing, by the electrical equipment, the received skull deformation electric signals to produce digital intracranial pressure data; and outputting, by the electrical equipment, the digital intracranial pressure data via an output device operably associated with the electrical equipment to render the digital intracranial pressure data. |
| US09826933B2 |
System for control of a prosthetic device
A system for control of a prosthetic device includes at least one Inertial Measurement Unit detecting orientation of a user's foot. The at least one Inertial Measurement Unit is in communication with a device module configured to command at least one actuator of a prosthetic device. The at least one Inertial Measurement unit sends output signals related to orientation of the user's foot to the device module and the device module controls the at least one actuator of the prosthetic device based on the signals from the at least one Inertial Measurement Unit. |
| US09826930B2 |
Adjusting alarms based on sleep onset latency
In some implementations, a mobile device can adjust an alarm setting based on the sleep onset latency duration detected for a user of the mobile device. For example, sleep onset latency can be the amount of time it takes for the user to fall asleep after the user attempts to go to sleep (e.g., goes to bed). The mobile device can determine when the user intends or attempts to go to sleep based on detected sleep ritual activities. Sleep ritual activities can include those activities a user performs in preparation for sleep. The mobile device can determine when the user is asleep based on detected sleep signals (e.g., biometric data, sounds, etc.). In some implementations, the mobile device can determine recurring patterns of long or short sleep onset latency and present suggestions that might help the user sleep better or feel more rested. |
| US09826926B2 |
Implantable sensor element
The invention relates to a sensor element for detecting at least one analyte in a body fluid or in a body tissue, particularly for determining at least one metabolite concentration in a body fluid. The sensor element comprises an implantable, one-piece shaped body, which comprises a sensor end and a coupling end. The shaped body comprises, in the area of the sensor end, at least one sensor area, which comprises at least one sensor material. The sensor material changes at least one optically measurable property in the presence of the analyte. The shaped body also has at least one optically transparent coupling part, which is designed to transmit electromagnetic radiation in at least one spectral range between the sensor area and the coupling end. In the sensor area, the shaped body has at least one optically transparent matrix material, and the analyte can at least partially diffuse through the matrix material to the sensor material. The sensor material is embedded in the matrix material. The coupling part is formed at least partially by the matrix material. |
| US09826922B2 |
System and method for automatically discovering, characterizing, classifying and semi-automatically labeling animal behavior and quantitative phenotyping of behaviors in animals
A method for studying the behavior of an animal in an experimental area including stimulating the animal using a stimulus device; collecting data from the animal using a data collection device; analyzing the collected data; and developing a quantitative behavioral primitive from the analyzed data. A system for studying the behavior of an animal in an experimental area including a stimulus device for stimulating the animal; a data collection device for collecting data from the animal; a device for analyzing the collected data; and a device for developing a quantitative behavioral primitive from the analyzed data. A computer implemented method, a computer system and a nontransitory computer readable storage medium related to the same. Also, a method and apparatus for automatically discovering, characterizing and classifying the behavior of an animal in an experimental area. Further, use of a depth camera and/or a touch sensitive device related to the same. |
| US09826918B2 |
Method and device for detecting the surface structure and properties of a probe
A method for detecting the surface structure and composition of a sample by means of a scanning unit, in particular for detecting traces, which are induced by contact of the skin of the human body on the surface of an object or absorbed by means of a trace carrier. The sample and the scanning unit are moved in relation to one another. The sample surface is irradiated line-by-line using a light beam or laser beam emitted from the scanning unit. The light beam or laser beam reflected from the sample surface is detected, and a digital image of the topography of the sample surface and the intensity of the reflected light beam or laser beam is generated from deviations of the reflected light beam or laser beam from the emitted light beam or laser beam to illustrate the composition of the sample surface. |
| US09826917B1 |
Electrode harness and method of taking electrical measurements
The present invention relates to an electrode harness and more particularly to an electrode harness with various features, which enhance the use and performance of the electrode harness. The present invention further relates to a method of taking biopotential measurements. The electrode harness and methods of the present invention allow for use with most applications where biopotential measurements are taken. The electrode harness can be used in ECG (or EKG), EEG, EMG, and other such biopotential measurement applications. Because of the versatility of various embodiments of the present invention, preferably the electrode harness can be adjusted for different applications or for application to various sized and shaped subjects. The electrode harness is further preferably part of a system, which includes either wireless or tethered bridges between the electrode harness and a monitor, and preferably includes various forms of processors for analyzing the biopotential signal. |
| US09826915B2 |
Systems and methods for assessing heart function
Systems and methods can be used to provide an indication of heart function, such as an indication of mechanical function or hemodynamics of the heart, based on electrical data. For example, a method for assessing a function of the heart can include determining a time-based electrical characteristic for a plurality of points distributed across a spatial region of the heart. The plurality of points can be grouped into at least two subsets of points based on at least one of a spatial location for the plurality of points or the time-based electrical characteristics for the plurality of points. An indication of synchrony for the heart can be quantified based on relative analysis of the determined time-based electrical characteristic for each of the at least two subsets of points. |
| US09826913B2 |
Non-invasive intracranial pressure monitoring system and method thereof
A system which includes a first sensor placed proximate to a perfusion field of an artery receiving blood which emanates from the cranial cavity is configured to monitor pulsations of the artery receiving blood which emanates from the cranial cavity artery. A second sensor placed proximate to a perfusion field of an artery which does not receive blood emanating from the cranial cavity and approximately the same distance from the heart as the first sensor configured to monitor pulsations of the artery which does not receive blood emanating from the cranial cavity. A third sensor placed distally from a heart is configured to monitor pulsations of a distal artery. A processing system responsive to signals from the first, second, and third sensors is configured to determine intracranial pressure. |
| US09826910B2 |
Sensor mounting assembly for sensored guidewire and associated devices, systems, and methods
Intravascular devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, a guidewire system for treating a patient includes an internal sensor mount having a body and a first cutout extending through a wall of the body; a core wire secured to the internal sensor mount; a sensor assembly for detecting a physiological characteristic of a patient secured to the internal sensor mount; an external housing disposed about the internal sensor mount and including an opening in communication with the cutout of the internal sensor mount; a proximal flexible member secured to at least one of the internal sensor mount and the external housing; a first distal flexible member secured to at least one of the internal sensor mount and the external housing; and at least one conductor electrically coupled to the sensor assembly and extending proximally beyond the internal sensor mount through the proximal flexible member. |
| US09826908B2 |
Devices, systems and methods for testing cardiac exercise functions
The present disclosure discloses a device, system and method for testing cardiac exercise functions. Chronotropic Competence Indices (CCIs) are proposed to quantitatively describe the adaptation capability of cardiopulmonary system in response to exercise intensity variation in terms of heart rate changes, and thereby describes the dynamic process of the heart in the body metabolic process. The present disclosure discloses a device which measures the CCIs in real time by using the wearable technology, and referred to as Cardiac Exercise Test (CET). Compared with the Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPX) and parameters measured by the CPX such as a maximum oxygen uptake, the CCIs have clear clinical meanings and specific normal reference values; and the CET reduces the risk of the test. It is simple to use, and can be used anytime anywhere. It is of great importance in wide clinical applications, and is of great significance in prevention and rehabilitation of cardiopulmonary disease. |
| US09826907B2 |
Wearable electronic device for determining user health status
Particular embodiments described herein provide for a wearable electronic device, such as a bracelet, coupled to a plurality of electronic components (which may include any type of components, elements, circuitry, etc.). One particular implementation of a wearable electronic device may include a plurality of sensors configured to measure at least one health parameter of a first user associated with the wearable electronic device, and a control module in communication with the plurality of sensors. The control module includes a processor configured to receive a plurality of health parameter measurements from at least a subset of the plurality of sensors, and determine a general health state of the first user based upon the received health parameter measurements. |
| US09826903B2 |
Multi modal method and system for transmitting information about a subject
The present invention is directed to multimodal communications means for transmitting signals representing physiological, performance, and contextual information associated with a subject. In an exemplary embodiment, the multimodal communications means includes multiple radio subsystems (or modes) that enable connection to an external monitoring device to be acquired in a wide range of settings where a single radio mode would be ineffective. Additionally, combining the multimodal communications means of the invention with real-time data-processing allows the communications functionality to be engaged only when data determined to be relevant to the user is identified. |
| US09826902B2 |
Sensor guide wire device and system including a sensor guide wire device
A sensor guide wire device (200) for intravascular measurements of a physiological variable in a living body is disclosed. The sensor guide wire (200) may comprise a sensor element (213) and a connector unit (220). The connector unit (220) is attachable to a signal converting device (310). The sensor element (213) provides the signal converting device (310) with a signal indicative of a physiological variable sensed by the sensor element (213). Furthermore, the connector unit (220) comprises a battery (222). A system (300) comprising the sensor guide wire device (200) and the signal converting device (310) is also disclosed. |
| US09826900B2 |
Surgical microscope with integrated optical coherence tomography and display systems
An ophthalmic surgical microscope includes a beam coupler positioned along an optical path of the surgical microscope between a first eyepiece and magnifying/focusing optics, the beam coupler operable to direct the OCT imaging beam along a first portion of the optical path of the surgical microscope between the beam coupler and a patient's eye (an OCT image being generated based on a reflected portion of the OCT imaging beam). The surgical microscope additionally includes a real-time data projection unit operable to project the OCT image generated by the OCT system and a beam splitter positioned along the optical path of the surgical microscope between a second eyepiece and the magnifying/focusing optics. The beam splitter is operable to direct the projected OCT image along a second portion of the optical path of the surgical microscope between the beam splitter and the second eyepiece such that the projected OCT image is viewable through the second eyepiece. |
| US09826898B1 |
Color vision assessment for displays
An electronic device may include a display and control circuitry that operates the display. The control circuitry may be configured to daltonize input images to produce daltonized output images that allow a user with color vision deficiency to see a range of detail that the user would otherwise miss. The daltonization algorithm may be specific to the type and severity of color vision deficiency that the user has. The control circuitry may conduct a color vision assessment using the display. The color vision assessment may include a sequence of test images that are each displayed for a predetermined period of time before moving to the next test image in the sequence. Each test image may include a color patch on a neutral background. A predetermined number of severity levels for each type of color vision deficiency may be tested during the color vision assessment. |
| US09826893B2 |
Electronic endoscope system and light source for endoscope
A light source device for an electronic endoscope includes a light source that emits light having a visible light wavelength region and an optical filter that has transmission peaks at a plurality of particular wavelengths in a continuous wavelength region including the visible light wavelength region. The plurality of particular wavelengths include wavelengths of around 420 nm, around 550 nm and around 650 nm. The optical filter has a constant transmissivity higher than zero and lower than a half of each of the transmission peaks in a wavelength region between the transmission peaks and the constant transmissivity in the wavelength region between the transmission peaks is higher than a transmissivity in a wavelength region other than between the transmission peaks. |
| US09826892B2 |
Medical device visualization system
Embodiments of the disclosure may include a medical device comprising an elongate member including a proximal region and a distal region. The elongate member can further include a handle at the proximal region and a tip at the distal region. The tip can include one or more openings, wherein one of the one or more openings at least partially houses an illumination unit. The illumination unit may further comprise a light source, a near-field diffuser proximate to the light source, and a far-field aperture proximate to the light source. |
| US09826890B2 |
Endoscope and manufacturing method of endoscope
An endoscope which promotes downsizing and cost reduction, and a manufacturing method of an endoscope are provided. For this reason, in an endoscope, a lens unit containing a lens in a lens tube, an image capturing element of which an image capturing surface is covered with element cover glass, and an adhesive resin fixing the lens unit of which an optical axis of the lens is coincident with the center of the image capturing surface to the element cover glass with a separation portion are disposed. |
| US09826889B2 |
Display device, medical device, display method and program
A display device configured to display an endoscopic image obtained by an endoscope for observing an object is provided. The display device includes a projecting unit configured to project coordinate axes set to the object onto the endoscopic image, and a display unit configured to display thereon the endoscopic image and the coordinate axes projected onto the endoscopic image. |
| US09826888B2 |
Endoscope having power transmission electrode and treatment tool having power reception electrode, and endoscope system
An endoscope system having: an endoscope having: an endoscope insertion section configured to be inserted into a subject, wherein the endoscope insertion section defines a channel having a distal opening; and a power transmission electrode arranged to the endoscope insertion section and electrically connected to a power source configured to output a high-frequency power; and a treatment tool having: an electrically powered treatment device; a treatment tool insertion section attached to the electrically powered treatment device, wherein the treatment tool insertion section is configured to be arranged in the channel of the endoscope; and a power reception electrode arranged to the treatment tool insertion section, wherein the power reception electrode is separated from the power transmission electrode to form a capacitor to transfer power from the power source through an electric field between the power transmission electrode and the power reception electrode to power the electrically powered treatment device. |
| US09826884B2 |
Image processing device for correcting captured image based on extracted irregularity information and enhancement level, information storage device, and image processing method
An image processing device includes an image acquisition section that acquires a captured image that includes an image of an object, the captured image being an image captured by an imaging section, a distance information acquisition section that acquires distance information based on the distance from the imaging section to the object when the imaging section captured the captured image, an irregularity information acquisition section that acquires extracted irregularity information from the acquired distance information, the extracted irregularity information being information that represents irregular parts extracted from the object, and an enhancement section that performs an enhancement process on an enhancement target, the enhancement target being an irregular part that is represented by the extracted irregularity information and agrees with characteristics specified by known characteristic information, the known characteristic information being information that represents known characteristics relating to the structure of the object. |
| US09826882B2 |
Rotating filter for a dishwasher and methods of cleaning a rotating filter
A pump and filter assembly including an impeller adapted to recirculate liquid, a housing defining an interior and exterior, a rotating filter having an upstream surface and a downstream surface, the filter located within the interior such that liquid being pumped through the pump and filter assembly passes through the filter from the upstream surface to the downstream surface to effect a filtering of the liquid, and a granular agent supply with granular agent cleaning the rotating filter by scouring the filter. |
| US09826881B2 |
Silverware, flatware or parts washer apparatus and method thereof
An apparatus and a method of washing (or pre-washing) silverware/flatware, or one or more other objects/parts is provided. The apparatus and method utilizes a fluid-push/pull pumping system and method in which generally an entire volume of fluid is pushed or pulled through a cavity of a housing in which the silverware/flatware or other objects/parts are located. The housing is configured to hold a mass of silverware or other item(s) within the cavity. The pumping system is configured to pump generally an entire volume of fluid is out of the cavity, and to direct the pumped fluid back into the cavity to create a generally continuous flow of generally an entire volume of fluid through the cavity, thereby causing the fluid to flow through the mass of silverware or other item(s). |
| US09826877B2 |
Gel wipe composition comprising a superabsorbent gel fiber
A fibrous gel-wipe, methods making the gel-wipe and methods of using the gel-wipe, suitable for use in personal care and household cleansing applications, which gel-wipe includes a superabsorbent gel fiber and a liquid cleansing composition. |
| US09826875B2 |
Cleaning tool
To provide a production method for a cleaning tool and a cleaning body with which the attachment of a holding tool to the cleaning body is facilitated. Provided is a production method for a cleaning tool provided with a cleaning sheet, and a holding tool for holding the cleaning sheet. The cleaning sheet is provided with: a base part; and a first fiber assembly which is bonded to the base part. The production process includes a step in which tensile force imparted to the first fiber assembly is released, and fibers in a state of having been stretched by the tensile force are shrunk to form bent regions in the base part. |
| US09826873B2 |
Traveling body device
Provided is an electric cleaning device capable of easily and reliably directing a camera toward an object and imaging the object. An electric cleaning device includes an electric vacuum cleaner main body capable of autonomously traveling, and a charging device that guides the electric vacuum cleaner main body, and can image an object. A control part has an imaging mode in which the control part makes a main body case travel so as to approach the charging device in line with guide signals received by a light receiving part, and performs imaging in a set direction with a camera based on the guide signals when the main body case reaches a position at a predetermined distance from the charging device. |
| US09826871B2 |
Robot cleaner, automatic exhaust station and robot cleaner system having the same
A robot cleaner provided with a shutter to open or close an inlet of a dust box when the dust box is separated from a body of the robot cleaner. Another robot cleaner, which docks with an automatic exhaust station, is also disclosed, together with the automatic exhaust station. The latter robot cleaner includes a shutter to be automatically opened by air discharged from the automatic exhaust station in a docked state of the robot cleaner to exhaust dust from the dust box, in order to allow even heavy dust to be easily exhausted. |
| US09826870B2 |
Robotic vacuum cleaner
A robotic vacuum cleaner for autonomously cleaning surfaces. The robotic vacuum cleaner comprises an appliance housing and a side arm. The side arm is movably mounted on the appliance housing. A brush element is disposed on the side arm. The side arm projects, in a first position, in front of the appliance housing in part and, in a second position, is received by the appliance housing. The side arm comprising a first arm element having a first end and a second end. The first arm element is movably mounted in the appliance housing at the first end. The side arm comprises a second arm element having a first end and a second end. The second arm element is movably mounted in the appliance housing at the first end and is movably connected to the second end of the first arm element at the second end. |
| US09826865B2 |
Hand dryer apparatus
A hand dryer includes a housing including a hand insertion portion and nozzles communicating with the hand insertion portion, a high-pressure air stream generation device placed inside the housing, hand detection sensors detecting a user's hand inserted into the hand insertion portion, a control unit that, when the hand detection sensors detect the user's hand, operates the high-pressure air stream generation device to cause an air stream to jet out from the nozzles, and a drain tank collecting droplets blown off the user's hand and scattered in the hand insertion portion. The hand dryer includes a drain conductive plate placed to face the top surface of the drain tank and a control circuit detecting the water level of the drain tank based on capacitance generated in the drain conductive plate. |
| US09826864B2 |
Product roll cutting and handling mechanism and method
A hands-free paper product dispenser has three separate IR emitter and sensor circuits, two controlling the length and/or number of sheets of paper cut and dispensed, and the third used both to safety interlock the cutter mechanism and to control retention of each cut sheet by the dispenser until removed from the dispenser by a user. A novel cutting mechanism and associated upper and lower pinch plates are employed to both hold the paper during cutting and assure a straight and unfrayed cut. |
| US09826860B2 |
Food storage container and strainer device
A container with strainer divider is appointed to filter liquid from a food product to maintain freshness. The liquid strainer divider has a main body portion with a plurality of closely arranged apertures having small diameters. The body portion terminates at a perimeter with a perimeter rim. The perimeter rim and perimeter of the main body portion of the liquid strainer divider are adapted to be received and abut against walls of a container and the plurality of straining holes or apertures of the liquid strainer divider function to separate liquid to the bottom wall of the container. The liquid strainer divider is formed having a plurality of interconnected shallow peaks and valleys, wherein the peaks are formed as a convex arched curve with sloping walls terminating to valleys that are conversely concave arched curves so as to form an interconnected waved structure. |
| US09826858B2 |
Hot fluid preparation unit for a fully automatic coffee machine
A hot fluid preparation unit for a fully automatic coffee machine is specified. With the goal of reducing the heating-up time of a fluid, the solution according to the invention provides that the hot fluid preparation unit has a temperature control device, a fluid heating arrangement, a rectifier circuit and a power semiconductor switching device. The rectifier circuit is connected at an input of the rectifier circuit to an AC voltage supply and at an output of the rectifier circuit, via the power semiconductor switching device, to the fluid heating arrangement. The power semiconductor switching device is designed in a controllable manner such that it selectively switches through the output of the rectifier circuit to the fluid heating arrangement. The temperature control device is configured to control the power semiconductor switching device in a pulsed manner, in order thus to perform a temperature adjustment. |
| US09826857B2 |
Coffee machine with a multi-cellular capsule seat
A coffee machine with a multi-cellular capsule seat having a base, a lower body and an upper body; a multi-cellular capsule seat is provided inside the upper body; at least two coffee capsules are placed side by side inside the multi-cellular capsule seat; a front inner cover is provided on the multi-cellular capsule seat; a right side of the front inner cover is provided with a front inner cover water inlet; the front inner cover water inlet is in communication with a second inlet provided at a middle part of a surface of the second coffee capsule; the second inlet is provided with a second upper piercing pin; a second piercing position seal ring is provided on the second upper piercing pin. The present invention has a simple structure and can double the working capacity, thereby increasing working efficiency. |
| US09826856B1 |
Coffee dispenser
The coffee dispenser disclosed herein may serve a single serving of coffee. The coffee dispenser may have a mixing chamber that combines one or more liquid concentrates and heated water, and dispenses a single serving of coffee. The coffee dispenser may have a forth control to select the forth level of the serving of coffee dispensed. The liquid concentrate may be a coffee extract. |
| US09826855B2 |
Circulator cooker with alarm system
A sous-vide circulator cooker that sounds an audible alarm when the system raises the temperature of the water to a determined temperature. The sous-vide circulator cooker includes temperature sensors, heaters and a pump to circulator temperature controlled fluids. The system also contains a speaker or buzzer that can play alarms or music when the system comes to a predetermined temperature. In at least one embodiment, the sous-vide circulator can also distinguish between self-heating and user-induced temperature changes, and will sound alarms accordingly. |
| US09826853B1 |
Mailbox system with illuminated address information
A mailbox system includes a mailbox body for receiving and storing mail items. One or more receiver units are disposed along an outside facing surface of the mailbox body and function to receive at least one address indicator having a plurality of lighted elements along a front facing surface thereof. An internal controller having a power unit is positioned within the mailbox body. The power unit includes at least one battery and at least one solar cell for supplying the necessary electrical information to the receiver unit and the address indicators. Physical markings are disposed along the address indicator and form address information. When activated, the plurality of lighted elements display address information. |
| US09826843B1 |
Stackable shelf tray for a retail display
A tray and corner post type packaging system for shipping and displaying palletized products is provided. The packaging system is made from three folded and glued blanks and includes four corner posts and a central support. |
| US09826835B1 |
Self-adjusting furniture glide
A self-adjusting furniture glide attachable to an article of furniture is described. The self-adjusting furniture glide comprises an outer shell comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion and the lower portion are joined together to form a hollow cavity and a center member disposed in the outer shell. The center member is seated in the outer shell above a cup-shaped cushion, and comprises a means capable of attaching the self-adjustable furniture guide to an article of furniture attached to a top surface of the center member. The center member is capable of vertical movement within the outer shell and the vertical movement of the center member in the outer shell compresses the cup-shaped cushion. |
| US09826834B2 |
Cabinet foot and cabinet foot system
A foot for a cabinet comprises a body having a longitudinal axis, an upper end and a lower end, a leveler adjustably connected to the lower end of the body and mounting locations. The leveler is adjustable to vary a longitudinal dimension of the foot. The mounting locations are on the body and ferromagnetically couple one or more foundation members in place adjacent the foot. A foot system and other components are also described. |
| US09826831B1 |
Ruggedized portable storage and transport unit
Disclosed is a portable storage and transport unit that can be easily moved, even through rough terrain, to any desired location. The unit includes a continuous supported work surface area around its entire perimeter, as well as multiple methods of adjusting the unit's center of gravity to reduce the effort needed to move it. The unit includes an optional weather shelter, the ability to be towed by a vehicle even when fully loaded, and a separate gear rack to accommodate efficient wheeled transport of even more gear. |
| US09826828B1 |
Cabinet assembly system utilizing cooperating grooved components
A cabinet that hangs on a wall and directs forces in such a manner so as to provide a stronger assembly. The cabinet includes a front frame, joinery, and a plurality of panels. The joinery attaches some of the plurality of panels to each other and to the front frame, and directs the forces from the some of the plurality of panels to the front frame so as to provide the stronger assembly. |
| US09826824B2 |
Cosmetic brush cleaning aid
A cosmetic brush cleaning apparatus and processes for streamlining cleaning, drying, and/or storing cosmetic brushes are described. The cosmetic brush cleaning apparatus may include elevated elements to aid in cleaning and drawing out make-up, dirt, debris, etc., in the fibrous heads of cosmetic brushes. The cosmetic brush cleaning apparatus may include draining mechanisms for removing excess water resulting from the cleaning process. The cosmetic brush cleaning apparatus may include an elevated wall that follows a contour of the cosmetic brush cleaning apparatus for retaining water within the elevated wall of the cosmetic cleaning apparatus and/or securing cosmetic brushes for drying and storing cosmetic brushes. The cosmetic brush cleaning apparatus may include one or more additional drying elements for drying and/or storing the cosmetic brushes. The cosmetic brush cleaning system enables users to deep clean cosmetic brushes efficiently and conveniently dry and/or store the cosmetic brushes. |
| US09826823B1 |
Heated shaving brush assembly
A heated shaving brush having a housing with an interior space that houses a shaft that acts as a tube to allow shaving cream or similar lubricating agent to pass through to a bristle assembly that a user applies to their body. The shaft is adjacent to a heating element that is powered by alternating or direct current, thereby heating the shaving cream as it passes through the hollowed shaft. A graduated knob can modulate the speed at which the shaving cream passes through the shaft, thereby increasing or decreasing the temperature of the shaving cream before it is applied to a user's face. |
| US09826822B2 |
Toothbrush
A manual toothbrush having oral hygiene elements arranged in polygons with an oral hygiene element at each apex, and having plural polygons nested within each other. The oral hygiene elements may be bristles, which may be of two different types, or elastomer elements and may contain tooth-polishing additive. The toothbrush head surface may be flat or may have its region distal from the handle angled up. |
| US09826815B2 |
Application device
An application device capable of applying at least two products either simultaneously or independently as per the requirement. The application device of the present invention comprises a cover, a gripping member and at least two applicators wherein the gripping member comprises of at least two receptacles for holding at least two products and the at least two applicators are in fluid communication with the at least two receptacles. The at least two applicators comprise of an applicator element wherein the applicator element may have a suitable shape such as but not limited to a tip. |
| US09826813B2 |
Airless pump container equipped with impregnated member and absorbing member
An airless pump container equipped with an impregnated member and an absorbing member includes: a container main body (10); a pushing plate (20); an impregnated member (30) installed inside of the container main body (10); a shielding member (40); a pump holder (60) coupled to the upper portion of the shielding member (40); an airless pump (50) installed on the inside of the shielding member (40) and the pump holder (60); an absorbing member holder (70) coupled to the upper end of the airless pump (50); an absorbing member (90); and a moving member (100) for fixing the absorbing member (90). The impregnated member is impregnated with content in a gel-state. |
| US09826811B1 |
Smoothing soft roller
A soft roller system that provides for a moisture retaining outer casing that keeps hair from drying out, a firm, yet flexible honeycomb type core that allows the foam roller to keep its shape under compression that is caused by the pressure of the head during sleep, and a moisture retaining band to secure the ends of a tress of hair between the soft fabric casing and smoothing band to secure the ends of the hair and protect the hair from breakage and ware. |
| US09826807B1 |
Umbrella support apparatus
Umbrella support apparatuses and kits are provided. The umbrella support apparatus may be used to support umbrellas where stability is desired. The umbrella support apparatus includes an umbrella or be used with existing umbrellas having a support shaft, a collar connected to an approximate mid-point of the support shaft, at least one auxiliary support shaft angularly connected to the collar with a connector for supporting the umbrella against an external force. |
| US09826804B1 |
Circular jewelry cage with changeable raised insert
A jewelry cage holds one of multiple circular discs. These circular discs are interchangeable and can have raised indicia above a circular portion of the disc, which are viewable through a portal of the cage. The cage itself can be two parts, hinged together and sized to hold the disc there-in when the cage is closed. |
| US09826803B2 |
Your view
The present invention discloses an article of jewelry, preferably a necklace with a hologram. The disclosed apparatus is provided with a hologram to display various things within the necklace and make it appear more stylish and enhancing the decorative appeal. The disclosed apparatus is capable of interacting with the multimedia devices like phone and can connect with them to display images and other things present in them via hologram in the necklace. |
| US09826802B2 |
Device for attaching a piece of jewellery, particularly an earring
The earring device (1) includes: a shaft (2) suitable for passing through the orifice; a catch (3) hinged with the shaft, the catch being suitable for adopting an unlocked position, wherein the catch is aligned with the shaft and a plurality of locking positions (17) along the shaft, wherein the catch is arranged transversely relative to the shaft; elements (17, 31, 32, 33) for reversibly locking the catch in one of the locking positions. The device makes it possible to adapt the earring to the thickness of the ear wearing same. The device is also suitable for other parts of the body liable to be pierced for the purposes of visual appeal. |
| US09826800B2 |
Belt buckle for a safety belt system
A belt buckle for a safety belt system for latching a belt buckle (1) with a casing (4), and a locking mechanism (3) arranged in the casing (4), and a spring element (13) loading the latching mechanism (3) in the closing direction, and a damping element that acts against the closing direction of the lathing mechanism (3). The damping element is formed by a soft layer arranged on the inside of the casing (4) on an anticipated impact surface of one of the components of the latching mechanism (3) during the latching or unlatching movement (3). |
| US09826799B2 |
Uppers and articles incorporating same
A composite shell for an upper may include a base layer and a fiber-reinforced layer. The base layer may comprise a mesh or other type of textile material and may extend at least over sides of a generally foot-shaped interior region of the upper. The fiber-reinforced layer may be at least partially bonded to the base layer. The fiber-reinforced layer may extend at least from a lower portion of the base layer generally corresponding to a footbed perimeter to at least a top portion of the base layer generally corresponding to part of an instep region. The fiber-reinforced layer may include a plurality of strips extending from the lower portion to the top portion, the strips separated by inter-strip gaps in the fiber-reinforced layer. |
| US09826797B2 |
Support structures for an article of footwear and methods of manufacturing support structures
Embodiments provide a support structure for an article of footwear, which may include upper and lower support elements, upper and lower members, a compression element disposed between the upper and lower members, and a torsion element. A vertical force applied to the upper support element compresses the compression element, rotationally displaces in a first direction the upper member relative to the lower member, rotationally displaces in the first direction a second portion of the torsion element relative to a first portion of the torsion element, deflects a torsion loading portion of the torsion element, and moves the upper member vertically toward the lower member. Upon release of the force, the torsion loading portion rotationally displaces in a second direction opposite to the first direction the second portion of the torsion element relative to the first portion. Embodiments of methods of manufacturing a support structure are also disclosed. |
| US09826793B2 |
Mask coupling apparatus
A mask coupling apparatus coupled to an outer surface of a helmet and couplings of a mask including an adjusting mechanism comprising a single elastic strap coupled to the mask at both ends via the couplings, where the ends of the elastic strap are free to adjust the length of the mask coupling apparatus. |
| US09826790B2 |
Pre-tied multi-knotted necktie
A pre tied necktie comprising a braided knot. The pre tied necktie is available in a vast array of colors and styles, from conservative solids to more flashy designs that contains dots, stripes or even cartoon characters. |
| US09826788B2 |
Shooting glove
A glove that does not have to be removed and allows quick bare index finger trigger contact for shooting of a pistol or rifle. Simple modification of a standard five fingered glove that still allows for normal use after the modification. My invention allows for instant bare finger contact with a control surface, such as a trigger, touch screen display and casting of a fishing line from a spinning reel. |
| US09826786B2 |
Horizontal flat-fold filtering face-piece respirator having indicia of symmetry
A horizontal flat-fold, filtering face-piece respirator 10 that includes a harness 14 and a mask body 12 that has a front surface, a first perimeter 24a, and a longitudinal axis 34. A nose clip 30 is secured to the mask body 12 centrally and adjacent to the first perimeter 24a of the mask body 12. An indicia 32 that is visible on the front surface of the mask body 12 in a vicinity of the nose clip 30 is provided to highlight a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the nose clip. The use of such an indicia, visible from the mask body front surface, enables a user to readily identify where the nose clip may be bent to prepare it for donning by the wearer. |
| US09826784B1 |
Bra with a pocket
An article of clothing providing a pocket for safely and securing concealing a self-defense device in an easily accessible location. The article of clothing may be a bra or tank-top having a pocket or sheath made of a cut-resistant material and configured for removably securing a knife or dagger. The pocket may also be configured to removably secure an aerosol canister containing a chemistry configured to deter an attacker, such as pepper spray. In one embodiment, the article of clothing is a bra with a pocket position between the two cups of the bra. The pocket is configured to removably secure a sheath made of a cut-resistant material, wherein the sheath is configured to removably secure a knife or dagger. |
| US09826783B2 |
Chest binder
A chest binder for holding breast tissue substantially flat relative to a thorax of a wearer's body has a front panel of an elasticized fabric, an inner front panel of a non-stretch material, and a back panel of the elasticized fabric. The front panel and the inner front panel are at least partially joined along corresponding peripheral edges by seams of stitching and are slidable with respect to each other between the peripheral edges. The front panel and the back panel are at least partially joined along corresponding peripheral edges by seams of stitching. The beast tissue of the wearer is held substantially flat relative to the thorax of the wearer's body when the chest binder covers the thorax. |
| US09826782B2 |
Penis retainer and penis securing method
Male undergarment (penis retainer) 50 associated with one embodiment comprises tubular cloth member 55, which is a retainer main body; front connecting cord 58a, which is a connecting member for installing the retainer main body on a human body, one end of front connecting cord 58a being attached to the lower side of a front open portion of tubular cloth member 55; clip 59a, which is attached to the tip of front connecting cord 58a; back connecting cord 58b, one end of which is attached to the upper side of a back open portion of tubular cloth member 55; and clip 59b, which is attached to the tip of back connecting cord 58b. When securing the penis, the penis is inserted into the interior of tubular cloth member 55. |
| US09826774B2 |
Container assembly that adds dry flavoring to a neck of a bottle
A container assembly moistens a neck of a bottle and then applies a dry flavoring to the moistened neck. The container assembly includes a base with two side-by-side dispenser trays. One dispenser tray includes a liquid used to moisten the bottle, and another dispenser tray includes the dry flavoring used to coat portions of the moistened bottle. |
| US09826772B2 |
Methods and compositions for affecting the flavor and aroma profile of consumables
This document relates to food products containing highly conjugated heterocyclic rings complexed to an iron ion and one or more flavor precursors, and using such food products to modulate the flavor and/or aroma profile of other foods. The food products described herein can be prepared in various ways and can be formulated to be free of animal products. |
| US09826771B2 |
Apparatus and related methods for preparing popcorn
A heated air popcorn popper provides easy access and clean up through the use of a detachable popping pitcher. The detachable popping pitcher defines an interior popping volume in which heated air is used to cause unpopped kernels to pop and form popped popcorn. The detachable popping pitcher includes a pitcher handle allowing a user to grasp and manipulate the popping pitcher when selectively detaching and attaching the popping pitcher to the popcorn popper. The detachable popping pitcher is completely removable from a popper housing such that loading unpopped kernels into the popping pitcher is simplified and the user need not be concerned about access being awkward or limited. The detachable popping pitcher can be fully removed from the popper housing following popping such that any remaining unpopped or popped kernels can be emptied from the detachable popping pitcher and the detachable popping pitcher can be cleaned. |
| US09826770B2 |
Antimicrobial compositions comprising esters of hydroxycarboxylic acids
Antimicrobial compositions, especially those useful when applied topically, particularly to mucosal tissues (i.e., mucous membranes), including, in particular, a fatty alcohol ester of a hydroxycarboxylic acid, alkoxylated derivatives thereof, or combinations thereof. The compositions can also include an enhancer component, a surfactant component, a hydrophobic component, and/or a hydrophilic component. Such compositions provide effective topical antimicrobial activity and are accordingly useful in the treatment and/or prevention of conditions that are caused, or aggravated by, microorganisms (including viruses). |
| US09826768B2 |
Process for preparing an aqueous solution of a methylcellulose
A process for preparing an aqueous solution of a methylcellulose having anhydroglucose units joined by 1-4 linkages wherein hydroxy groups of anhydroglucose units are substituted with methyl groups such that s23/s26 is 0.36 or less, wherein s23 is the molar fraction of anhydroglucose units wherein only the two hydroxy groups in the 2- and 3-positions of the anhydroglucose unit are substituted with methyl groups and wherein s26 is the molar fraction of anhydroglucose units wherein only the two hydroxy groups in the 2- and 6-positions of the anhydroglucose unit are substituted with methyl groups, comprises the step of mixing the methylcellulose with an aqueous liquid at a temperature of not higher than 10° C. at a shear rate of at least 1000 s−1. |
| US09826767B2 |
Infant formula with a low content of MCFAS in specific proportions and a relatively high content of unsaturated fatty acids, and its use in promoting the healthy establishment of cognitive function in infants
The invention concerns a synthetic infant formula composition with a low content of medium-chain fatty acids in specific proportions and a relatively high content of unsaturated fatty acids, preferably polyunsaturated fatty acids. This composition is for infants, preferably preterm infants. This composition has been designed to promote the healthy establishment of cognitive function. |
| US09826765B2 |
Dried noodle and process for producing the same
Provided is a dried noodle having a porosity in the cross-sectional area of the noodle of from 0.1 to 15%, a unit porosity in the cross-sectional area of the noodle of from 0.01 to 1%, a gelatinization degree of 30 to 75% and a porous structure. |
| US09826763B2 |
Stabilizer composition of microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose, method for making, and uses
The subject matter of this invention is a composition and method of making a water-dispersible, stabilizing colloidal microcrystalline cellulose:xarboxymethylcellulose composition. The method of making the composition does not require a salt solution as an anti-slip agent. |
| US09826761B2 |
Compositions and methods for mitigating dietary sulfur in animals
The invention is related to compositions including sulfide binding agents and related methods. In an embodiment, the invention includes a composition including saponins, and a sulfide binding agent, the sulfide binding agent comprising a metal containing compound. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of processing animal feed including contacting an animal feed material with a composition, the composition comprising a sulfide binding agent, the sulfide binding agent comprising a metal containing compound. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method of treating animals for dietary sulfur overload including administering to an animal an effective amount of a composition comprising a sulfide binding agent, the sulfide binding agent comprising a metal containing compound. In an embodiment, the invention includes a method for reducing ruminal sulfide concentrations including administering to an animal an effective amount of a composition comprising a sulfide binding agent, the sulfide binding agent comprising a metal containing compound. Other embodiments are included herein. |
| US09826753B2 |
Method of assembling frozen dessert container, method of packaging frozen dessert, frozen dessert container, frozen dessert product, and method of preparing drink
A molding container including a lid that can be smoothly pulled out of a molded frozen dessert with no damage to the molded frozen dessert is provided. A frozen dessert container assembling method of assembling: a main body capable of containing a frozen dessert; a first lid including a first peripheral edge portion and a protrusion that forms an inner space on the inner radius side of the first peripheral edge portion; and a second lid including a second peripheral edge portion and a cover portion is provided. This method includes the steps of: feeding the main body; causing the protrusion of the first lid to be contained in the main body and fitting the first peripheral edge portion and an opening of the main body to each other; and covering the inner space of the first lid with the cover portion of the second lid and fitting the first peripheral edge portion and the second peripheral edge portion to each other. |
| US09826752B2 |
Machine and method for the thermal treatment of liquid and semi-liquid food products
A machine for the thermal treatment of liquid and semi-liquid food products includes at least two tanks for containing respective products to be subjected to the thermal treatment, at least one dispenser for dispensing the product contained in said tanks, at least one stirrer mounted inside each tank for mixing the product contained therein, and thermal treatment means operatively acting on the products contained in the containers. The thermal treatment means includes at least one circuit for circulation of an operating fluid and two first heat exchangers operating according to a thermodynamic cycle; each of the two heat exchangers being associated with a respective tank. The thermal treatment means is configured to implement at least one operating mode of removing heat from the respective tank by one heat exchanger and simultaneously transferring heat to the respective tank by the other heat exchanger. |
| US09826749B2 |
Shrimp processing apparatus and methods
Apparatus and methods for deheading and peeling shrimp hydraulically using the Venturi Effect. A shrimp-laden fluid is pumped through a conduit system including one or more venturi tubes. The acceleration of the fluid through the venturis detaches the heads and loosens or detaches the shells from the shrimp. The venturis may be used in conjunction with a roller peeler to increase peeling quality. An inspection station receives shrimp from the roller peeler and directs incompletely peeled shrimp back to the peeler or one or more of the venturis. |
| US09826744B2 |
Cooking apparatus having divider storage portion
A cooking apparatus includes a main body; a cooking chamber defined in the main body; a removable divider designed to be placed in the cooking chamber to partition the cooking chamber; a drawer, which has a storage space therein, to be slidably extracted and retracted; a drawer receiving space defined beneath the cooking chamber to receive the drawer; a divider storage space arranged between the cooking chamber and the drawer receiving space to store the divider removed from the cooking chamber; and an insulation member provided between the cooking chamber and the divider storage space. The divider storage space is accessible while the drawer is open. |
| US09826743B2 |
Compositions comprising recombinant bacillus cells and another biological control agent
The present invention relates to a composition comprising a) recombinant exosporium-producing Bacillus cells that express a fusion protein comprising: (i) at least one plant growth stimulating protein or peptide and (ii) a targeting sequence that localizes the fusion protein to the exosporium of the Bacillus cells; and b) at least one further biological control agent selected from particular microorganisms disclosed herein and/or a mutant of a specific strain of a microorganism disclosed herein having all identifying characteristics of the respective strain, and/or at least one metabolite produced by the respective strain, and/or at least one metabolite produced by the respective strain that exhibits activity against insects, mites, nematodes and/or phytopathogens in a synergistically effective amount. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of this composition as well as a method for enhancing plant growth, promoting plant health, and/or reducing overall damage of plants and plant parts. |
| US09826741B2 |
Tetrazolinone compound and application thereof
A tetrazolinone compound represented by formula (1): wherein A represents the following group A1, A2, A3, or A4; A; in which R6 represents a hydrogen atom, a C1-C4 alkyl group optionally having one or more halogen atoms, etc.; R7 and R8 each represents a hydrogen atom, a C1-C4 alkyl group optionally having one or more halogen atoms, etc.; E1, E2, E3, J1, J2, J3, J4, G1, G2, and G3 each represents a hydrogen atom, etc.; has excellent control activity against pests. |
| US09826739B2 |
Non-aqueous active ingredient concentrates having an herbicidal effect
The present invention relates to active compound concentrates having herbicidal action, comprising a) from 10 to 100 g/l of at least one 4-benzoyl-substituted pyrazole compound of the formula I in which R1, R3 independently of one another are hydrogen, halogen, methyl, halomethyl, methoxy, halomethoxy, methylthio, methylsulfinyl or methylsulfonyl; R2 is a 5-membered heterocyclic radical which is unsubstituted or carries 1, 2, 3 or 4 substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, C1-C6-alkyl, C1-C4-alkoxy, C1-C4-haloalkyl, C1-C4-haloalkoxy and C1-C4-alkylthio; R4 is hydrogen, halogen or methyl; R5 is C1-C6-alkyl, C3-C6-cycloalkyl or C3-C6-cycloalkylmethyl; and R6 is hydrogen or C1-C4-alkyl; or one of its agriculturally useful salts, b) from 200 to 700 g/l of 2-chloro-N-(2,4-dimethyl-3-thienyl)-N-(2-methoxy-1-methylethyl)acetamide, and c) from 10 to 200 g/l of at least one surfactant S selected from a mixture of at least one anionic surfactant and at least one nonionic surfactant, where the components a), b) and c) are present dissolved in a mixture of organic solvents consisting to at least 95% by weight, based on the solvent mixture, of d1) at least one aprotic polar organic solvent having a miscibility with water at 25° C. and 1 bar of at least 50 g/l, and d2) at least one organic solvent having a solubility in water at 25° C. and 1 bar of less than 5 g/l. |
| US09826738B2 |
Turfgrass fungicide formulation with pigment
Oil-in-water fungicidal formulations are prepared having pigment dispersed therein, the pigment being stable within the oil-in-water emulsion as a result of the addition of suitable silicone surfactants and suitable emulsifiers. The formulations can be prepared either as a 2-pack formulation or as a single formulation. In the case of the single formulation polyethylene glycol is also added. In either case, the formulations show a synergistic effect through the addition of the pigment, the resulting formulations having an increased efficacy. Further, the formulations show a synergistic effect when mixed with conventional chemical fungicides, both being added in reduced amounts compared to recommended rates. |
| US09826725B2 |
Level winding mechanism for dual-bearing reel
A level winding mechanism for a dual-bearing reel includes a worm shaft, a guide member and a slide member. The guide member has a tubular shape and is disposed radially outside of the worm shaft. The slide member has a first through hole and an accommodation recess. The first through hole enables the guide member to penetrate therethrough. The accommodation recess is formed on the inner surface of the first through hole. The slide member is configured to slide along the guide member. |
| US09826723B2 |
Methods compositions and systems for production of recombinant spider silk polypeptides
Disclosed are methods, compositions, and systems for transforming silkworms to produce spider silk and analogs of spider silk. In certain embodiments, the method may include inserting a DNA sequence coding for at least a portion of a spider silk fibroin polypeptide, or an analog of a spider silk fibroin polypeptide, positioned between at least a portion of the 5′ and 3′ ends of a silkworm fibroin gene to generate a fusion gene construct having a sequence that encodes for a polypeptide comprising both spider silk fibroin and silkworm silk fibroin sequences. In certain embodiments, the fused gene is able to replace a native gene present in the silkworm such that the transformed silkworm expresses a polypeptide comprising a spider silk fibroin polypeptide, or an analog thereof, and expresses significantly less of the native silkworm silk. |
| US09826718B2 |
Pet collar with collapsible bowl
A wearable collar device having an integrated collapsible bowl for containing water, food, treats and the like. The device can also be used to carry keys, bags, etc. The bowl is flattened during storage and use and can be expanded to contain liquids. The collar includes a body and a pair of opposed elongated ends adapted to be tied around a pet's neck. The ends allow the collar to accommodate a range of neck sizes. The bowl is defined by a sheet of material folded in a unique manner. The fold lines allow the bowl to be collapsed into a consistently flat form. |
| US09826716B2 |
Absorbent article for pet
Provided is an absorbent article for pets that can prevent side leakage of urine.In an absorbent article for a pet including a liquid permeable inner layer sheet, a liquid impermeable outer layer sheet, and an absorbent core provided between the inner layer sheet and the outer layer sheet, the absorbent core is provided only on a region closer to a belly facing region than a cutting line in which the tail of the pet is inserted, the cutting line being positioned in an intermediate region, and a body facing surface of the inner layer sheet has an area, at least overlapping the absorbent core in plan view, in which a recessed-and-protruded region is positioned, the recessed-and-protruded region including ridges and grooves that are alternately arranged side by side in a lateral direction while extending in a longitudinal direction. |
| US09826715B2 |
Remote interaction device
Systems, devices, and methods are provided for remote interaction with a subject in an environment. The device has audio-visual recording and transmitting functionality to provide an operator at a remote location with an audio-visual feed of the environment near the device. The device also has a light emission component which the operator controls and which projects light onto a surface in the environment in the vicinity of the device. The systems, devices, and methods provide operators with the ability to interact with pets and provide exercise and stimulation to pets when their owners are away. |
| US09826714B2 |
Tracking sensor
Tracking tags for attachment to an object or animal. The tracking tags may include low-power long-range transmitters drawing power from a battery or a renewable energy source. The tracking tags may also each include a microcontroller having a sleep-mode module enabling nearly no quiescent current to be drawn when the microcontroller is in a sleep-mode. The microcontroller may enter into a sleep-mode for long periods of time following a short period of sending data to the low-power long-range transmitter. The short period of sending data may be approximately one-twentieth of the long sleep-mode period. The tracking tags may also include sensors for determining an ambient temperature or biometric data about an animal to which the tracking tag is attached. Locations of the tracking tags may be determined using signal trilateration and/or signal triangulation. |
| US09826713B2 |
Animal muzzle pattern scanning device
A handheld device for scanning a muzzle pattern of an animal, the device comprising: a scanning segment configured to fit over the muzzle of the animal and a plurality of scanning cameras attached to the scanning segment for capturing the muzzle pattern from different angles. The device further comprises an image processor for combining and processing scanned muzzle patterns from the plurality of scanning cameras and displaying the processed muzzle pattern on an image viewer. A handle segment comprising a plurality of control buttons and a communication interface for connecting and transferring data to an external device. |
| US09826711B1 |
All purpose pet cart
A rolling cart/carrier that self-rights a pet contained in the rolling cart/carrier regardless of what terrain is traversed, and is height-adjustable so as to allow comfortable rolling of the rolling cart/carrier by a user. The rolling cart/carrier includes a cart and a carrier. The cart is height-adjustable so as to allow comfortable rolling of the rolling cart/carrier by the user. The carrier is replaceably attached to the cart, and self-rights the pet contained in the carrier regardless of what terrain is traversed by the cart. |
| US09826709B2 |
Teat treatment method and apparatus
An automatic teat treatment method and apparatus uses a control system and an associated robot apparatus with an arm that carries a treatment apparatus, to establish a treatment operation start time and establish the presence of an animal at a treatment location, and then (i) initiate detection of a spatial teat position of a first teat, (ii) register the spatial position, (iii) derive a dedicated teat-treating action, (iv) carry out the teat-treating action, and (v) successively repeat the initiating, registering, deriving, and treating steps once in respect of each teat until all teats are treated, where, when after the start time, a predefined point in time is passed before any of the preceding steps is completed, the method is interrupted and a default treating action for treating all remaining untreated teats is derived and carried out by the treatment apparatus and thereafter the robot arm is retracted. |
| US09826707B1 |
Maize inbred PH2FP0
A novel maize variety designated PH2FP0 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH2FP0 with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2FP0 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 PH2FP0 or a locus conversion of PH2FP0 with another maize variety. |
| US09826705B1 |
Maize inbred PH2DWN
A novel maize variety designated PH2DWN and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH2DWN with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2DWN 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 PH2DWN or a locus conversion of PH2DWN with another maize variety. |
| US09826697B1 |
Plants and seeds of hybrid corn variety CH601447
According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH601447. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH601447, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH601447 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 CH601447. |
| US09826695B1 |
Maize hybrid X05H211
A novel maize variety designated X05H211 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are produced by crossing inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant by crossing hybrid maize variety X05H211 with another maize plant are disclosed. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X05H211 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X05H211, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X05H211. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X05H211. |
| US09826694B1 |
Maize hybrid X08H838
A novel maize variety designated X08H838 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are produced by crossing inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant by crossing hybrid maize variety X08H838 with another maize plant are disclosed. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X08H838 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X08H838, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X08H838. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X08H838. |
| US09826693B2 |
Wheat cultivar BZ9W09-2075
The invention relates to the wheat cultivar designated BZ9W09-2075. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the wheat cultivar BZ9W09-2075. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the wheat cultivar BZ9W09-2075 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing wheat plants by crossing the wheat cultivar BZ9W09-2075 with itself or another wheat cultivar and plants produced by such methods. |
| US09826684B2 |
Remote server
There is provided a remote server that receives a machine type, an operating day, a position, a load factor, an engine rotational speed, a traveling speed, and a fuel consumption amount. The remote server identifies a working position based on the position, selects past operating days of an operation status corresponding to a current load factor of the same machine at the same working position, identifies a minimum fuel consumption amount out of fuel consumption amounts corresponding to the selected past operating days, and compares a current fuel consumption amount with the past minimum fuel consumption amount. If the current fuel consumption amount is larger than the past minimum fuel consumption amount, the remote server transmits an engine rotational speed and a traveling speed during a working period of the minimum fuel consumption amount, to a predetermined communication terminal corresponding to information for machine identification. |
| US09826675B2 |
Gauge wheel assembly with hinge
A hinge for a gauge wheel arm for movably swinging the gauge wheel away from the agricultural equipment, such as an agricultural planter, is disclosed. The hinge is located along the length of the gauge wheel arm for rotating the gauge wheel away from the agricultural equipment to expose an inner surface of the gauge wheel and an interior portion of the agricultural equipment. The gauge wheel arm rotates about an angle of rotation formed by the hinge and permitting rotation between 0 and 180 degrees. The gauge wheel arm may also include a lock bolt for preventing rotation of the gauge wheel when desired. |
| US09826672B1 |
Implement and method for preparing and maintaining dirt arena footing
An implement is disclosed for smoothing grounds that include at least a compact base having a top surface and a lesser compact footing on top of the base. The implement includes a frame having a front portion, a central portion, a rear portion, and a width. Wheels are mounted for rotation directly to the frame, and tools are carried by the frame for engagement with the ground. The tools include a specially shaped cleaving blade connected to the rear portion of the frame by a tool support, which securely connects the cleaving blade at predetermined heights. The blade has a front shaving edge and a rear compressing edge. The blade extends straight across the width of the frame so as to maximize the drag displaced on the frame during use of the blade. Arrangement of the wheels directly on the frame provides optimal stabilization of the frame during operation of the blade. |
| US09832919B2 |
Electronic circuit component mounting head
An electronic circuit component mounting head which mounts electronic circuit components to a circuit substrate is provided. The mounting head includes a rotating/raising/lowering axis held on a head main body as to be capable of rotation and of being raised/lowered, a suction nozzle held on the rotating/raising/lowering axis as to be capable of being raised/lowered and not capable of being rotated relatively, and the rotating/raising/lowering axis and suction nozzle can be rotated as necessary by an electric motor. A raising/lowering driving member is held on head main body as to be capable of being raised/lowered, and is raised/lowered by a first linear motor. A first engaging section of the raising/lowering driving member is engaged with the rotating/raising/lowering axis, and a second engaging section of a second linear motor is held on the raising/lowering driving member engaged with suction nozzle. |
| US09832917B2 |
Electromagnetic wave absorbing sheet and method of manufacturing the same and electronic device using the same
Provided are an electromagnetic wave absorbing sheet which is a thin film and a low cost and has an excellent electromagnetic wave absorbing rate, a method of manufacturing the same, and an electronic device using the same. The electromagnetic wave absorbing sheet includes: at least one layer thin-film magnetic sheet which is separated into a plurality of fine pieces; a protective film that is adhered on one surface of the thin-film magnetic sheet; and a double-sided tape that is adhered on the other surface of the thin-film magnetic sheet. |
| US09832916B2 |
EMI shielding device for an optical transceiver
An EMI shielding device for an optical transceiver is disclosed. The EMI shielding device includes a shell with an optical and electrical interfaces al opposed ends. The shell includes a base and an upper cover. The upper cover includes a plate having at least two flanks, each having a lateral plate that extends downward. The base includes a base plate having at least two flanks, each having a base side baffle. The upper covet plate is located between the base side baffles. The lower ends or surfaces of the upper cover lateral plates have serrations thereon. A conductive gasket under the serrations contacts the base. The conductive gasket and the serrations result in reliable multipoint contact between the upper cover lateral plates and the base, thereby providing reliable electrical continuity between the upper cover and the base, and reducing electromagnetic leakage. |
| US09832912B2 |
Computer server heat regulation utilizing integrated precision air flow
Disclosed is system, method, and rack stand portion for the advantageous cooling of computer equipment 305. The rack stand 200 includes a hollow body 210, 212 that may be formed of cartridges 2416. Gas from an airflow source 5204 is guided into the rack stand body and then into a sealed case of the computer equipment. Air flow is then guided out of the computer equipment for recirculation, exhaust, or other purpose. |
| US09832911B2 |
Air handling unit and method of operating the same
An air handling unit, particularly for data center cooling, operates to cool a flow of return air from a conditioned space using a flow of ambient air. The return air is recirculated to the conditioned space as supply air. The flow of ambient air can be adiabatically cooled to a lower temperature to provide additional cooling. A flow of makeup air can be joined with the cooled return air to form the supply air, and can be sourced from the ambient environment directly or from the heated flow of ambient air. |
| US09832908B2 |
Electronic apparatus
A plurality of vent perforations are formed on a side face of an electronic apparatus and communicate the inside and the outside of the electronic apparatus with each other therethrough. The electronic apparatus includes a fan which sucks or discharges air through the plurality of vent perforations. A groove is formed on the side face of the electronic apparatus and extends in a forward and rearward direction. The plurality of vent holes are formed on an inner face of the groove of the side face. With the structure, the vent holes can be suppressed from being closed up when the electronic apparatus is placed vertically, and the drop of the ventilation efficiency can be suppressed. |
| US09832905B2 |
Server system
A system includes a rack and one or more server systems mounted in the rack. A server system includes at least one sever node and each server node includes an array of devices including mass storage devices and at least one server device. Segments of the array of devices of a particular server node are mounted in sub-node chassis that include intra node connectors. Multiple sub-node chassis that each include devices such as mass storage devices or server devices of the sever node couple together via the intra node connectors when installed in a server system chassis to form a server node. Each server node of a server system may be a separate logical node. Also, the sub-node chassis of a server node may be configured for vertical airflow through the sub-node chassis in addition to cross airflow. |
| US09832903B2 |
Power semiconductor module device
Second fixation portions of a terminal conversion adaptor are fitted into and engaged with engagement portions abutting on first fixation portions of a power semiconductor module. By use of one common fixation screw, each of the fixation portions and each of the second fixation portions are fixed to a cooler. Pin connection type external connection terminals of the power semiconductor module are connected to conversion terminals (which are provided with screw connection portions) of the terminal conversion adaptor so that the pin connection type external connection terminals can be converted into screw connection. Thus, it is possible to provide a conversion adaptor which can convert a connection form of each external connection terminal of a power semiconductor module easily and a power semiconductor module device in which the connection form of the external connection terminal can be converted into a desired connection form by the conversion adaptor. |
| US09832901B2 |
Printed circuit board mounting and grounding device
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed toward techniques and configurations for a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly mountable to a computer chassis. In one instance, the PCB assembly may comprise a PCB having two through holes and a PCB mounting device that may include a U-shaped component having a non-linear portion and two rods extended from the non-linear portion and a housing having a base with protrusions extending from ends of the base. The rods may be extended through the protrusions such that the base and the non-linear portion of the U-shaped component form an opening to engage a mounting element of the chassis. The extended portions of the rods may be inserted into and soldered to the through holes of the PCB, to electrically couple the PCB to the PCB mounting device and the chassis to ground the PCB. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed. |
| US09832896B2 |
Flat cable wiring structure
A flat cable wiring structure includes an operation mechanism that detects a physical operation made on an operating surface and outputs a detection signal, a control board, disposed facing the operating surface of the operation mechanism, that outputs a driving signal for imparting vibration to the operation mechanism on the basis of the detection signal, and a flat cable that electrically connects the operation mechanism and the control board. The flat cable includes a routing portion that extends from the operation mechanism to the control board along a movement direction of the operation mechanism. The routing portion includes a bending portion that bends at a bending angle allowing the routing portion to be routed along the control board. |
| US09832894B1 |
Secure electronic device and disassembling tool
A secure electronic device with matching disassembling tool includes a housing and an electronic element. The disassembling tool includes a securing member, a first elastic disassembling member, and a second disassembling member. The securing member is mounted to the housing. The securing member includes an elastic locking block locked to the electronic element. The first elastic disassembling member can reach and be inserted into the securing member. The second disassembling member is inserted in the first disassembling member. When the second disassembling member is then rotated, the first disassembling member is deformed to press the elastic locking block, which unlocks from the electronic element. |
| US09832893B2 |
Electronic apparatus with case having unitary fixture reinforcement and roof for connector aperture
A first roof extends over and covers an area above an aperture through which an input connector is accessible, so as to receive water drops flowing down along a side surface of a case. A first reinforcement reinforces a fixture by which the case is fixed to a fixed surface. The first roof and the first reinforcement are a single piece of material. Thus, since the first roof and the first reinforcement are the single piece of material, if the first roof is provided to the case, there is no need to form the first roof and the first reinforcement separately. Therefore, it is possible to prevent generation of additional mold production cost and material cost for the first roof. |
| US09832890B2 |
Cover window, method of manufacturing the cover window, and display device including the cover window
A cover window includes a light-transmitting substrate, a metal layer pattern on the light-transmitting substrate, the metal layer pattern being in a peripheral region of the light-transmitting substrate, a first light-blocking layer pattern on the metal layer pattern, a second light-blocking layer pattern extending from the light-transmitting substrate to the first light-blocking layer pattern, the second light-blocking layer pattern covering inner side surfaces of the metal layer pattern and the first light-blocking layer pattern, and a light-transmitting area on the light-transmitting substrate, the light-transmitting area being surrounded by the second light-blocking layer pattern. |
| US09832888B1 |
Circuit board and method for making the same
A method of manufacture of a circuit board without annular through-hole rings and thus allowing a higher component density includes a base layer, a first wire pattern layer, and a second wire pattern layer on both sides of the base layer. A portion of the base layer not covered by the first wire pattern layer defines at least one first hole. The circuit board further includes a wire layer. The wire layer includes at least a first portion and a second portion connecting to the first portion. The first portion is filled in the first hole. The second portion is formed on the first portion extending away from the base layer. A diameter of the second portion is less than an aperture diameter of the first hole. The wire layer is electrically conductive between the first wire pattern layer and the second wire pattern layer through the first portion. |
| US09832876B2 |
CPU package substrates with removable memory mechanical interfaces
Configurable central processing unit (CPU) package substrates are disclosed. A package substrate is described that includes a processing device interface. The package substrate also includes a memory device electrical interface disposed on the package substrate. The package substrate also includes a removable memory mechanical interface disposed proximately to the memory device electrical interface. The removable memory mechanical interface is to allow a memory device to be easily removed from the package substrate after attachment of the memory device to the package substrate. |
| US09832874B2 |
Method of forming a printed circuit board assembly
A printed circuit board (PCB) assembly includes a first PCB and a second PCB disposed substantially parallel and opposite to each other, such that a second side of the first PCB is opposite to a first side of the second PCB; wherein the second PCB has a first set of side connectors on its first side and a second set of side connectors on its second side, configured for both electrical power supply to and signal communication with the second PCB; the second PCB both electrically and mechanically connected to the second side of the first PCB via a first elastomeric connector; and the second PCB electrically connected to the first PCB via its second set of side connectors and a flexible electrical connector that is electrically connected to the second set of side connectors and the first PCB. |
| US09832873B2 |
Circuit board structure
A circuit board structure includes an inner circuit structure and a first build-up circuit structure. The inner circuit structure includes a core layer having an upper surface and a lower surface, a first patterned circuit layer disposed on the upper surface, a second patterned circuit layer disposed on the lower surface and a conductive through hole connecting the first and the second patterned circuit layers. The first build-up circuit structure at least has a cavity and an inner dielectric layer. The inner dielectric layer has an opening connecting the cavity and exposing a portion of the first patterned circuit layer. A hole diameter of the opening is smaller than a hole diameter of cavity. A height difference is between an inner surface of the inner dielectric layer exposed by the cavity and a top surface of the first patterned circuit layer exposed by the opening. |
| US09832869B2 |
Polyamide films and process for preparation
The invention relates to a stretched polymer film made of a polyamide composition comprising a semi-crystalline semi-aromatic polyamide (PPA), wherein the PPA consists of repeat units derived from aromatic dicarboxylic acid comprising at least 80 mole % of terephthalic acid, relative to the total amount of aromatic dicarboxylic acid; and diamine comprising at least 5 mole % 1,4-butanediamine and at least 5 mole % 1,6-hexanediamine, relative to the total amount of diamine, the combined amount of 1,4-butanediamine and 1,6-hexanediamine being at least 60 mole % relative to the total amount of diamine; and 0-2 mole % of other monomeric units, relative to the total amount of aromatic dicarboxylic acid, diamine and other monomeric units. The invention further relates to a process for preparing the polyamide film by melt extrusion and stretching of the film. |
| US09832865B2 |
Methods and devices for providing increased routing flexibility in multi-layer printed circuit boards
A build-up process for fabricating a multi-layer PCB is provided during which a mezzanine redistribution, or routing, structure is formed within one of the PCB dielectric material layers that allows additional electrical interconnections (i.e., traces and crossovers) to be made within that layer, thereby obviating the need to add an additional PCB layer in order to make those interconnections. The mezzanine redistribution structure also can be interconnected with the metal layers that are above and below it to further increase routing complexity and flexibility. The mezzanine redistribution structure can be formed without increasing the total thickness of the PCB and without substantially increasing costs. |
| US09832862B2 |
Conductive film, display device provided with same, and method for evaluating conductive film
The conductive film includes a transparent substrate and a conductive portion having a wiring pattern, in which when the wiring pattern is observed from at least one visual point, with respect to frequencies and intensities of moires which are calculated respectively from peak frequencies and peak intensities of predetermined data and peak frequencies and peak intensities of another predetermined data, an evaluation index of moire, which is calculated from evaluation values of moires obtained by applying visual response characteristics of a human being to the intensities of the moires according to an observation distance at the frequencies of the respective moires that are equal to or lower than the maximum frequency of moire specified according to display resolution of the display unit, is equal to or less than a predetermined value. |
| US09832860B2 |
Panel level fabrication of package substrates with integrated stiffeners
Techniques are disclosed for forming a package substrate with integrated stiffener. A panel of package substrates are provided. An adhesion layer is then formed on each package substrate of the panel of package substrates. A panel of stiffeners are then attached to the panel of package substrates by the adhesion layer, each stiffener corresponding to a respective package substrate. The panel of package substrates is then singulated into individual package substrates with integrated stiffeners. The stiffeners on the singulated package substrates include tabs that extend to the edges of the package substrates. |
| US09832859B2 |
Printed circuit board assembly and method of manufacturing the same
A printed circuit board (PCB) assembly includes a PCB, electronic components mounted on the PCB, a shield can provided to block electromagnetic waves of the electronic components, and an insulating layer provided to prevent an electrical short between the electronic components and the shield can, and the insulating layer is sprayed and formed on the shield can. The insulating layer which is sprayed and formed on the shield can does not have an adhesive layer, and thus the thickness thereof can be remarkably reduced compared to insulating materials requiring an adhesive layer. |
| US09832858B2 |
Display device
A display device includes a first substrate, a second substrate that covers the first substrate, a sealing member between the first and second substrates, the sealing member bonding the first and second substrates to each other, and one or more heating parts between the first substrate and the sealing member to apply heat to the sealing member during a sealing process of bonding the first and second substrates to each other. |
| US09832856B2 |
Circuit board
Disclosed are a circuit board and a method of manufacturing the same. The circuit board includes an insulating part, a heat-transfer body disposed in the insulating part, the heat-transfer body including a thermally conductive material formed in a column shape, and a function hole penetrating the heat-transfer body between a top surface and a bottom surface of the heat-transfer body. |
| US09832854B2 |
Systems and methods for stabilization of droplet-plasma interaction via laser energy modulation
In a laser produced plasma (LPP) extreme ultraviolet (EUV) system, a droplet is irradiated by a laser pulse to produce a plasma in a chamber. This generates forces that cause the plasma to destabilize and subsequent droplets to have their flight trajectory and speed altered as they approach the plasma. This destabilization is detectable from oscillations in the amount of EUV energy generated. To reduce the oscillations by stabilizing the plasma and travel of the droplets, a proportional-integral (PI) controller algorithm is used to modify an energy of subsequent laser pulses based on the EUV energy generated in the chamber. By modifying the energy of subsequent laser pulses, the plasma stabilizes, which reduces effects on droplet flight and stabilizes the amount of EUV energy generated, allowing the plasma chamber to operate for longer intervals and to lower the amount of reserve power maintained by a laser source. |
| US09832848B2 |
Lighting system and method for controlling lighting system
A lighting system includes: a lighting device; a lighting controller; and a system controller. The system controller includes: a timer; a schedule storage for storing schedule information; a first communication circuit; and an instruction controller which causes a first communication circuit to transmit control information which includes an instruction associated with time indicated by a counter value. The lighting controller includes: a sensor which detects a person in a space where the lighting device is disposed, and brightness of the space; a second communication circuit; and a dimming controller which switches to one of modes that is indicated in the control information from another of the modes and executes the one of the modes, where the modes include (a) a human detection mode, (b) a brightness detection mode, and (c) a dimming level fixed mode. |
| US09832845B2 |
Lighting control system and lighting control method thereof
A lighting device included in a network of a plurality of lighting devices includes: a lighting unit; a communication interface configured to receive a control signal generated at an external device directly from the external device or by way of another lighting device in the network, depending on a connection relationship between the plurality of lighting devices; a memory configured to store information about the lighting device; and a controller configured to, according to the control signal and the information about the lighting device, selectively perform one of controlling an operation of the lighting unit and relaying the control signal to at least one other lighting device in the network through the communication interface to control an operation of at least one target lighting device included in the network. Here, the at least one other lighting device itself may be the at least one target lighting device. |
| US09832841B2 |
Wall-plate-switch system and method
In one example, a wall plate may have or include an electrical circuit. The electrical circuit may include a switch and a light sensor supported on a base in the form of a circuit board. A switch cover may cover the light sensor and selectively move with respect to the base through a first range of motion. The switch cover may actuate the switch, when moving through the first range of motion. Additionally, the switch cover may be transparent or semitransparent to enable light to pass through and reach the light sensor regardless of where the switch cover is within the first range of motion. |
| US09832835B2 |
LED fluorescent lamp
An LED fluorescent lamp connected to an electronic fluorescent lamp ballast comprises a plurality of external connection pins having at least, a first connection pin connected to a terminal of the electronic fluorescent lamp ballast and a second connection pin connected to another terminal of the electronic fluorescent lamp ballast, an LED array including a plurality of LEDs connected in series, one or more diodes connected in series between the first connection pin and the second connection pin, one or more resistors connected in series between the first connection pin and the second connection pin. The LED array, the one or more resistors and the one or more diodes are connected in series with each other between the first connection pin and the second connection pin. |
| US09832833B1 |
Smart lighting by outdoor wall-mounted or ceiling mounted light fixtures and/or connected light bulbs
An apparatus comprising a communication circuit and a processing circuit. The communication circuit may be configured to connect to a network based on a communications protocol. The processing circuit may be configured to control a light based on a pre-defined condition. The processing circuit may determine a location of the apparatus based on an identifier. The processing circuit may synchronize to a universal clock via the network. The processing circuit may determine a local time based on (a) the universal clock and (b) the location, both received from a device connected to the apparatus through the network. The processing circuit may receive input from the device. The processing circuit may calculate the pre-defined condition based on (a) the local time and (b) the input from the device. The processing circuit may determine whether the pre-defined condition has been met. |
| US09832832B2 |
Methods, systems, and apparatus for providing variable illumination
Digital Control Ready (DCR) is a two-way open standard for controlling and managing next-generation fixtures. A DCR-enabled lighting fixture responds to digital control signals from a separate digital light agent (DLA) instead of analog dimming signals, eliminating the need for digital-to-analog signal conditioning, fixture-to-fixture variations in response, and calibration specific to each fixture. In addition, a DCR-enabled lighting fixture may also report its power consumption, measured light output, measured color temperature, temperature, and/or other operating parameters to the DLA via the same bidirectional data link that carries the digital control signals to the fixture. The DLA processes these signals in a feedback loop to implement more precise lighting control. The DCR-enabled lighting fixture also transforms AC power to DC power and supplies (and measures) DC power to the DLA via a DCR interface. These features enable intelligent, networked DCR lighting systems operate with lower power (energy) consumption, greater flexibility, and simpler installation than other intelligent lighting networks. |
| US09832831B2 |
Electric light and daylight control system with a dual-mode light sensor
An electric light and external light control system for a space with a dual-mode light sensor is proposed. The dual-mode light sensor (106) measures and computes the amount of external light and electrical light incident on its sensing surface. The individual measured light components (total light, electric light and external light) are transmitted to the window treatment controller (103) and the electric light controller (102). The controllers (102, 103) use this information to optimally control the lighting condition to meet user requirements and reduce energy consumption. Both controllers (102, 103) operate concurrently and independently, but are linked via the dual-mode sensor (106). |
| US09832825B2 |
Signal transmitting device, signal receiving device, lighting system, illuminating fixture, and illuminating system
The signal transmitting device includes: a transmitter-side input for receiving a first DC voltage; a transmitter-side output for outputting a second DC voltage; and a voltage conversion circuit configured to convert the first DC voltage into the second DC voltage. Further, the signal transmitting device includes a control circuit configured to control the voltage conversion circuit so that the second DC voltage has a voltage value (selected from a first voltage value and a second voltage value) which changes according to transmission data in a predetermined transmission period. |
| US09832820B2 |
Domestic appliance with controlled door opening
A domestic appliance (for example, a microwave oven), comprising: a housing; a front door; a retention mechanism (for example including a latch), located within the housing and engageable with the door; wherein the retention mechanism is movable between a first configuration, in which the door is retained in a closed position, and a second configuration, in which the door is non-engaged; an electromechanical actuator (for example a relay), adapted to move the retention mechanism out of said first configuration; and a controller (for example a microprocessor coupled to the relay, the microprocessor being operable in responsive to one or more signals to activate the relay, and thereby release the door from the closed position. Under spring bias, the door thus opens to about 30-45 degrees. The microprocessor-controlled door opening may be operable in three or more modes, including: actuation of a touch switch, remote control, or a microwave end of cooking. |
| US09832818B2 |
Resistive heating coatings containing graphenic carbon particles
Resistive heating assemblies comprising a substrate, a conductive coating comprising graphenic carbon particles applied to at least a portion of the substrate, and a source of electrical current connected to the conductive coating are disclosed. Conductive coatings comprising graphenic carbon particles having a thickness of less than 100 microns and an electrical conductivity of greater than 10,000 S/m are also disclosed. |
| US09832815B2 |
Method and system for managing communication in wireless communication network
A method and system for managing communication in a Multi-User Reusing One time Slot (MUROS) based communication network is provided. The method includes selecting a first communication device from a plurality of communication devices in the communication network, determining a Timing Advance (TA) associated with the first communication device and identifying a type of the first communication device, identifying a second communication device from the plurality of communication devices based on a TA associated with the second communication device, a type of the second communication device, the TA of the first communication device, and the type of the first communication device, and pairing the first communication device and the second communication device in a first time slot for establishing communication with the plurality of communication devices. |
| US09832812B2 |
Communication apparatus, method for controlling communication apparatus, and program
A communication apparatus includes a determination unit configured to determine whether the communication apparatus has joined a wireless network established with another communication apparatus prior to start of a predetermined service, and a leaving unit configured to perform processing for leaving the wireless network according to a result of determination by the determination unit when the predetermined service ends. |
| US09832811B2 |
Adaptive physical layer warm-up for LTE TDD C-DRX power optimization
Methods and apparatus to reduce power consumption in user equipment (UE) that operates in a connected discontinuous reception (C-DRX) mode while in communication with wireless network are disclosed. A C-DRX warm-up period before the UE enters an on-duration is adjusted dynamically based on one or more factors including a time division duplex (TDD) uplink/downlink (UL/DL) subframe configuration, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) values, and Doppler shift values. The C-DRX warm-up period is adapted based on the pattern of DL subframes in the UL/DL subframe configuration by including DL subframes that best contribute to channel estimation and adaptive tracking loops based on measured SNR and Doppler shift conditions. Favorable channel conditions, such as higher SNR and lower Doppler shift, can require fewer DL subframes and consequently shorter C-DRX warm-up periods. Higher Doppler shift values indicate more rapidly varying channel conditions and require DL subframes positioned closer to the start of the on-duration. |
| US09832808B2 |
Method to provide dual connectivity using LTE master eNodeB and Wi-Fi based secondary eNodeB
A first network device may operate as a base station in a wireless wide area network (WWAN) and may establish a WWAN connection with a user device. A media access control (MAC) address of the user device may be obtained and sent to a second network device which operates an access point for a wireless local area network (WLAN). An acknowledgement containing a first service set identifier of the WLAN may be received from the second network device and sent to the user device to set up a secondary connection. An identifier for ordered data communication may used to enable in order communication through both the first and the second network devices. Data to be transmitted to the user device may be split into a first portion and a second portion, and transmitted through the WWAN connection and to the second network device for transmission to the user device via the WLAN respectively. |
| US09832807B2 |
Method and device for mode switching
A method and device for mode switching includes: a first base station sending a message including mode switching information to a first User Equipment (UE) to trigger the first UE to perform mode switching according to indication information of a mode in the mode switching information. The problem of poorer service continuity caused by mode switching inflexibility in the related is solved, and the effect of improving overall throughput of a system is further achieved. |
| US09832806B2 |
Method for processing radio link failure and device therefor
A method may be provided for processing a radio link failure (RLF) when a terminal accesses at least two cells from different base stations. The method may include configuring a dual connection of at least one cell associated with a first bases station and at least one cell associated with a second base station, detecting the occurrence of an RLF of at least one cell from the at least one cell associated with the first base station and/or the at least one cell associated with the second base station, transmitting a signal related to the RLF to the first base station or second base station, and receiving setting information for processing the RLF. |
| US09832804B2 |
Device and method for wireless communication
[Object] To make it possible to prevent a direct connection between unintended wireless communication terminals without distributing identification information of wireless communication terminals.[Solution] There is provided a device including an acquisition unit configured to acquire identification information that is identification information for a direct connection between two wireless communication terminals and is issued by another device that is different from the two wireless communication terminals, and a control unit configured to perform control for the direct connection using the identification information. |
| US09832803B2 |
Communication control method, user terminal, and communication apparatus
A user terminal comprises: a receiver configured to: receive first information for a Device to Device (D2D) discovery procedure for discovering a proximity terminal, from a serving cell; and receive second information for the D2D discovery procedure from another cell of another frequency different from a frequency of the serving cell in order to receive a discovery signal by the D2D discovery procedure in the another frequency from another user terminal. |
| US09832802B2 |
Facilitating communications via a mobile internet-enabled connection interface
Apparatus, methods and systems facilitating communications via a mobile internet-enabled connection interface are provided. One apparatus is configured to perform various operations, including detecting a wired connection with a first device coupled to a physical port of physical ports of the apparatus; and determining information indicative of a service provided via a second device, wherein the first device is a device configured to communicate with a device at a same location of the first device and to whom the first device is connected within a local area network at the same location of the first device and the device. The operations also include facilitating the establishment of a communication path over a network between the apparatus and the second device for service provisioning between the second device and the first device, wherein the second device is located at a different location from the first device. |
| US09832801B2 |
Method for determining channel hopping sequence for device-to-device communication in wireless communication and apparatus for same
The present invention relates to a method for performing device-to-device (D2D) communication in a wireless communication system. Particularly, the method comprises the step of discovering, by a first device performing channel hopping and D2D communication, a second device for which a new D2D communication is to be performed, wherein: the first device discovers the second device on the basis of a first channel hopping sequence in a first time interval within a total discovery period which is a channel hopping period, and is configured to perform channel hopping on the basis of a second channel hopping sequence in a second time interval within the total discovery period; and the total discovery period of the first device is determined on the basis of the second channel hopping sequence in the second time interval and the number of repetitions of the second channel hopping sequence. |
| US09832794B2 |
Communications device and method for improving the transmission of random access messages
A communications device to transmit data to a mobile communications network includes one or more network elements providing a wireless access interface for communication. The communications device includes a controller controlling a transmitter to transmit a random access message to a first network element via a random access channel of the wireless access interface common to one or more other communications devices, to receive in response an acknowledgement indicating an allocation of communications resources of a shared up-link channel for the communications device to transmit signals to the mobile communications network, or a negative acknowledgment indicating the communications device has not been allocated communications resources of the shared up-link channel. After detecting random access failure conditions by the controller, the controller in combination with the transmitter re-transmits the random access message one or more times, with a variable delay greater than or equal to a delay of a previous re-transmission. |
| US09832790B2 |
Methods and apparatus to transmit data in a connectionless mode
Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture to transmit data in a connectionless mode are disclosed. An example method includes identifying, at a node in a wireless network, that a user equipment has indicated that the user equipment will communicate data without establishing a bearer with the wireless network. A random access channel (RACH) message transmitted to the node from the user equipment is accessed by the node. A preamble from the RACH message is extracted as the data. The data is inspected to identify a destination address of the data. The data is relayed to the destination address. |
| US09832783B2 |
Selecting first or second subscriber identity module based on priority
A communication device may be provided. The communication device may include a first communication circuit configured to perform a first communication activity; a second communication circuit configured to perform a second communication activity; a priority weight determination circuit configured to determine a first priority weight based on an activity history of the first communication circuit and configured to determine a second priority weight based on an activity history of the second communication circuit; and a resource distribution circuit configured to determine based on the first priority weight and based on the second priority weight whether the first communication circuit shall perform the first communication activity at a pre-determined point in time or whether the second communication circuit shall perform the second communication activity at the pre-determined point in time. |
| US09832775B2 |
Communication resource allocation systems and methods
A channel descriptor management message is transmitted on a broadcast connection to a mobile terminal. The channel descriptor management message provides a format for a frame. The frame includes a resource space. The channel descriptor management message defines a plurality of channels within the resource space and allocates at least one of the channels to a plurality of users. Subsequent resource allocation messages may refer to a location within a channel rather than a location within the entire resource space. |
| US09832773B1 |
Method of scheduling communication in a wireless communication network
A system and method of scheduling communication in a wireless communication network are provided. A first access node can determine a scheduling scheme based on data addressed to wireless devices in communication with the first, second, and third access nodes. The data addressed to the wireless devices in communication with the first access node can be transmitted during a first subframe of the scheduling scheme where the first access node does not transmit data addressed to the wireless devices in communication with the first access node during a second subframe of the scheduling scheme. The second and third access nodes can be instructed to assign data addressed to wireless devices that do not meet a signal condition threshold to be transmitted during the first subframe and to assign data addressed to wireless devices that meet the signal condition threshold to be transmitted during the second subframe. |
| US09832771B2 |
Communication control apparatus, computer-readable storage medium having stored therein communication control program, communication control method, and information processing system
Provided is a game apparatus which stores, in an outbox for individual-transmission data, individual-transmission data the destinations of which are individually specified, and stores, in an outbox for universal-transmission data, universal-transmission data the destinations of which are all terminals. A plurality of pieces of data is stored in the outbox for individual-transmission data, and information regarding the destination thereof and the information regarding the source thereof are added to each piece of data. When the outbox for individual-transmission data is full, all data stored in the outbox is retrieved, and one frame which includes the plurality of pieces of data is generated and transmitted. |
| US09832764B2 |
Radio base station, user terminal, radio communication system and radio communication method
The present invention is designed to make it possible to adequately form the search space candidates to be used in the blind decoding of downlink control information when the radio resource region for downlink control channels is expanded. The radio base station of the present invention is a radio base station that transmits downlink control information for a user terminal by using an enhanced downlink control channel that is frequency-division-multiplexed with a downlink shared data channel, and has a configuring section that configures, for the user terminal, a plurality of resource sets that are each formed by including a plurality of resource blocks allocated to the enhanced downlink control channel, and a determining section that determines enhanced control channel elements to constitute a plurality of search space candidates such that the plurality of search space candidates of each resource set are all placed in different resource blocks. |
| US09832757B2 |
Mobile terminal and processor
A mobile terminal is used in a mobile communication system including a general cell supporting a broadcast distribution of MBMS data and a specific cell not supporting a broadcast distribution of MBMS data. The mobile terminal has a controller that executes an autonomous search that searches for a specific cell to which the mobile terminal is allowed to connect. In an idle state, the controller halts the autonomous search when the user terminal receives the MBMS data from the general cell. |
| US09832755B2 |
Exchange, wireless network control device, wireless network device, and wireless communication network system
An RNC includes: a first call request reception unit configured to receive from an exchange a first call request to only an already located wireless cell; a presumably located wireless cell derivation unit configured to derive a presumably located wireless cell in which a target communication terminal device is presumably located; a first call making unit configured to make a call to the already located wireless cell and the presumably located wireless cell; a call response signal transmission unit configured to transmit a response signal to the call, to the exchange; a second call request reception unit configured to receive from the exchange a second call request to a wireless cell different from the already located wireless cell, in a case where the response signal to the first call request has not been transmitted; and a second call making unit configured to make the call to the different wireless cell. |
| US09832751B2 |
Systems and methods for providing location specific content and notifications utilizing beacons and drones
Venue information is stored, the venue information including a first location portion of the venue and a second location portion of the venue. An actual presence of a location sensing mobile device is identified within the venue, the actual presence identified based on beacon signals received from a beacon associated with the first location portion of the venue. A first drone associated with the first location portion of the venue is selected based on the actual presence. First sensor data is received from the first drone. A virtual presence of the location sensing mobile device is received, the virtual presence being different from the actual presence. A second drone associated with the second location portion of the venue is selected based on the virtual presence. Second sensor data is received from the second drone. The first and second sensor data is transmitted to the location sensing mobile device. |
| US09832745B2 |
Transport stream packets with time stamp generation by medium access control
Provided is a method of transmitting transport stream packets from a terminal connected to a network including generating a time stamp with reference to time information managed in synchronization with other terminals by a medium access control (MAC) layer in order to control medium use in the network; processing the transport stream packets by using the time stamp; and transmitting the processed transport stream packets. |
| US09832742B2 |
Method for determining transmit power and user equipment
The present disclosure discloses a method for determining transmit power and a user equipment, which relates to the field of information technologies, and can improve a success rate of establishing a connection between the user equipment and a base station. The method includes: determining, according to a preconfigured rule, a transmit power used for sending a random access message; and, sending the random access message to a base station by using the determined transmit power. The present disclosure is applicable to establishment of the connection between the user equipment and the base station. |
| US09832738B2 |
Method for controlling transmit power of a mobile station
Method and apparatus for controlling a transmit power of a mobile station are disclosed. Mobile stations in direct communication on a cross link (XL) receive control parameters from a base station. A first mobile station (a receiving mobile station) may calculate a correction parameter for power offset for transmissions from a second mobile station (a transmitting mobile station) to the first mobile station, and send it to the second mobile station. The correction parameter may be generated within the maximum and minimum limits. The second mobile station may calculate a transmit power level for a transmission to the first mobile station based on the correction parameter, measurements on resources allocated for cross links for mobile station-to-mobile station direct communications, an interference measurement received from the first mobile station, and a path loss to the first mobile station. |
| US09832731B2 |
Methods and arrangements in a wireless communication system
The present invention relates to methods and arrangements in a wireless communication system, and in particular to uplink outer loop power control.A Node B identifies if a UE from which the Node B receives data is in a predetermined set of power challenged situations. The Node B transmits to the RNC an indication to hold the SIR target of the UE if the UE has been identified to be in a power challenged situation. As a consequence, the uplink outer loop power control (OLPC) procedure in the RNC will not change the SIR target of the UE. This implies that the output power level of the UE remains unchanged as long as the UE remains in the power challenged situation. Thus, user and network performance are improved in the wireless communication system. |
| US09832730B2 |
Power management of communication devices
A communication device receives at least a portion of a packet. Power is reduced to a subset of components of a communication device. The subset of components for which power is reduced is determined based, at least in part, on a length of the packet. The power is reduced for a time period based, at least in part, on the length of the packet. |
| US09832728B2 |
Dynamic point to point mobile network including origination user interface aspects system and method
A computationally implemented system and method that is designed to, but is not limited to: electronically processing mobile operating system object code at least partially from mobile device storage to direct to one or more origination mobile communication device display surfaces an origination mobile communication device user interface presentation of communication characteristics information regarding one or more mobile operating system based communication devices for operation as one or more ad hoc intermediary relays of one or more fallback communication networks upon initiation thereof for communication between an origination mobile communication device and a destination electronic communication device. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. |
| US09832726B2 |
Systems and methods for blocking excessive transmitter message signaling
The present disclosure relates to transmitting assistance information from a first node to a second node. In one embodiment, a first node includes a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver. In response to transmitting a preference indicator for a first configuration to a second node via the wireless transmitter or receiving a reconfiguration request associated with the preference indicator for the first configuration, the first node starts a timer set to a value that defines an amount of time before the first node is permitted to transmit a preference indicator for a second configuration to the second node. The first node then blocks transmission of the preference indicator for the second configuration to the second node until the timer has expired. In this manner, excessive signaling of preference indicators from the first node to the second node is avoided. |
| US09832722B2 |
Information processing apparatus, control method, and program
In an information processing apparatus, a transmission unit transmits information stored by a storage unit to a communication apparatus when an access point corresponding to the information stored by the storage unit is an access point to which the communication apparatus is connectable, and transmits to the communication apparatus information on an access point selected using a displayed list when an access point corresponding to the information stored by the storage unit is not an access point to which the communication apparatus is connectable. The information processing apparatus communicates with the communication apparatus via an access point corresponding to information transmitted by the transmission unit. |
| US09832718B2 |
Portable information terminal using near field communication
When a portable information terminal operates in an unused state, a predetermined access point is searched for. As a result, when the predetermined access point is detected, a connection to the predetermined access point is established, and a predetermined data communication process is performed. |
| US09832717B2 |
Method and apparatus for layer 3 configuration in a heterogeneous network
Methods, systems and apparatus are provided for camping, assisted serving cell addition or removal, and discontinuous reception (DRX) in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. In other aspects, enhancements to Layer 1 channels and uplink timing alignments are provided in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. In further aspects, assisted serving cell Layer 2 architecture and transport channels are provided in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. In further aspects, collaborated HARQ solutions are provided in networks having a macro cell and at least one assisted serving cell. |
| US09832714B2 |
Method and system for network node selection based user equipment agent assisted modification of temporary identity in 3G and 4G networks
The embodiments described herein relate generally to a method and system for using mobility management entity (MME) or Serving GPRS Support Node (SGSN) pooling features depending on whether it is a 3G or 4G network and adding an enhancement in the User Equipment (UE) whereby it uses location information (e.g., broadcast Public Land Mobile Network Identity (PLMN ID), Tracking Area (TA), Cell Identification, Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates or the like) to decide from which MME or SGSN it should obtain services. |
| US09832713B2 |
Methods and devices for cell discovery
This disclosure sets forth methods and devices for communication between mobile devices and base stations with active and dormant states. In an embodiment, a base station transmits system information during an active state of the base station with at least one system-information message. The at least one system-information message includes a SystemInformationBlockType1 (“SIB1”) message with a first update-indicator field. The base station selects an update value that indicates whether the system information has changed since a previous transmission of a previous SIB1 message. The base station transmits at least one dormant-state message during a dormant state of the base station with the selected update value in a second update-indicator field of the at least one dormant-state message. |
| US09832712B2 |
User terminal and network apparatus
A user terminal according to the present invention is a user terminal in a mobile communication system that supports D2D communication that is direct device-to-device communication. The user terminal comprises: a receiver configured to receive, from a network device, D2D terminal information on another user terminal located around the user terminal, the network apparatus managing a location of the another user terminal that distributes information by the D2D communication; and a controller configured to perform control for discovering the another user terminal, on the basis of the D2D terminal information. |
| US09832710B1 |
Method and system for controlled broadcasting of system identification
A method and system for controlling broadcast of system identification. A base station may broadcast in one or more timeslots of a control channel, as a System Identifier (SID) of the base station, a particular SID, but may broadcast in one or more other timeslots of the control channel, as a SID of the base station, a different SID. In addition, when a mobile station registers to be served by the base station, the base station may determine which slot(s) of the control channel the mobile station will monitor and may broadcast in the determined slot(s) a SID that may help to keep the mobile station from transitioning to be served by a different base station. |
| US09832707B2 |
Multi-path radio transmission input/output devices, network, systems and methods with on demand, prioritized routing protocol
Devices, networks, systems and methods for coordinating industrial control and monitoring communications on multi-path radio frequency transmission mesh networks include establishing path metrics allowing a respective comparison of a plurality of available communication paths between neighboring radios communicating in the mesh network. Replies to route requests may be delayed based on the path metrics of available paths for message transmission to ensure that the best available connection routes through the mesh network can be understood and utilized. |
| US09832706B2 |
Information dissemination in a multi-technology communication network
A method for information dissemination in a multi-technology communication network wherein network nodes are equipped with first communication means for operating via a long range communication network and with second communication means for performing short-range communication includes performing, by a central entity, the steps of determining coverage areas of the network nodes; establishing dissimilarity relations between network nodes with respect to the coverage areas of the network nodes such that a dissimilarity relation index value is larger for two network nodes covering less similar areas; and selecting, subject to configurable constraints, network nodes with a highest dissimilarity relation index value as mobile infrastructure nodes that are intended to act as relay and/or forwarder nodes for supporting optimal information penetration in a given destination dissemination area. |
| US09832705B1 |
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for topology management and geographic routing in mobile ad-hoc networks
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for topology management and geographic routing in mobile ad-hoc networks are disclosed. One method for geographic routing in mobile ad-hoc networks includes receiving a first packet requiring routing at a first mobile node configured to operate in a mobile ad-hoc network where the first mobile node and other mobile nodes move relative to each other and are connected using directional wireless communications links. The method also includes performing greedy routing for the first packet, and in response to determining that no next hop neighbor node is closer to the destination than the first mobile node, performing face routing of the first packet, wherein performing greedy routing or face routing includes storing local topology information at the mobile nodes and using the local topology information when making routing decisions. |
| US09832699B2 |
Communication control method, user terminal, cellular base station, and access point
A communication control method according to a first aspect is a method for performing offloading to switch traffic to be transmitted and received between a user terminal and a cellular base station to a wireless LAN system. The communication control method comprises: a step A in which the user terminal transmits a wireless LAN terminal identifier being an identifier of the user terminal in the wireless LAN system, to the cellular base station; and a step B in which the cellular base station, before performing the offloading, transmits the wireless LAN terminal identifier received from the user terminal to an access point of the wireless LAN system. The wireless LAN terminal identifier is used for wireless authentication of the user terminal at the access point. |
| US09832693B2 |
Method and apparatus for carrier aggregation
The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for controlling carrier aggregation. In the method, a terminal performs carrier aggregation from a first base station so that a Pcell, which is one carrier from among carriers controlled by the first base station, is used for setting another carrier to be an Scell. The terminal performs carrier aggregation from a second base station so that one carrier having the function of the Pcell from among carriers controlled by the second base station, is used for setting another carrier to be an Scell. The terminal transceiver a downlink channel and an uplink channels with the first base station and the second base station, according to settings of the Pcell and the Scell of each of the first base station and the second base station. |
| US09832691B2 |
Cell ID expansion and hierarchical cell ID structures
In some embodiments, a network node has an associated cell identifier (“cell ID”). The network node creates a primary synchronization signal (PSS), a first secondary synchronization signal, and one or more additional secondary synchronization signals. The combination of signals defines the cell ID. The cell ID is one of N possible cell IDs and N is determined by multiplying: a number of possible values for the PSS; a number of possible values for the first secondary synchronization signal; and for each additional secondary synchronization signal, a number of possible values for the additional secondary synchronization signal, such that N is greater than a legacy number of possible cell IDs determined by multiplying the number of possible values for the PSS and the number of possible values for the first secondary synchronization signal. The network node transmits the combination of the created signals. |
| US09832689B2 |
Cell handover method, base station and system
Embodiments of the present invention provide a cell handover method, a base station and a system, which relate to the field of wireless communications technologies. The method includes: determining, by a source eNB according to uplink RSRP of a UE in a serving cell and a target cell, whether to hand over the UE from the serving cell to the target cell; and if yes, acquiring UE parameters including TA of the UE in the target cell, and sending UE data and the UE parameters to a target eNB, where the TA is used for uplink synchronization between the target eNB and the UE. |
| US09832688B2 |
Intelligent re-provisioning of base stations for circuit-switched fallback
Embodiments are described that may help to provide wireless service in a circuit-switched fall back scenario. In particular, when a user entity (UE) falls back from a first network to a second network to conduct a voice call, the first network may instruct the UE to scan a certain predetermined channel or channels for coverage from the second network. However, certain types of base stations typically operate on unlisted channels that differ from the predetermined channels that the UE is instructed to scan. Accordingly, a UE may pre-emptively scan unlisted channels, and report any unlisted channel that is detected to the first network. The first network can then coordinate with the second network to re-provision the base station that was operating on an unlisted channel, to instead operate on one of the predetermined channels that a UE will be instructed to scan during fall back to the second network. |
| US09832676B2 |
Apparatuses and methods for steering data traffic between heterogeneous networks
A mobile communication device is provided with a first wireless module, a second wireless module, and a controller module. The first and second wireless modules perform wireless transmissions and receptions to and from a telecommunication network and an AP using a cellular technology and an SRW technology, respectively. The controller module receives, from the telecommunication network via the first wireless module, at least one RAN rule and information concerning an amount of the data traffic to be offloaded and a level of granularity of the data traffic to be reported for offloading. Also, the controller module receives a first traffic offloading request from the telecommunication network via the first wireless module in response to determining that one of the RAN rule is satisfied, and offloads data traffic indicated by the first traffic offloading request from the telecommunication network to the AP via the second wireless module. |
| US09832675B2 |
System and method for interference detection
Solutions for interference detection are provided. A frequency band is scanned (200) for transmissions of a transmission system. One or more parameters are determined (202) from the obtained scanning results. At least one determined parameter is compared (204) to a threshold value. On the basis of the comparison it is determined (206) that an unknown transmission exists on a given frequency band. One or more transmission systems are determined (208) which may be the cause of the unknown transmission. At least part of the given frequency band is scanned (210) for transmissions of the determined one or more transmission system; and on the basis of the scanning the system causing the unknown transmission is determined. Information related to the system and transmission parameters of the unknown transmission are decoded (212). |
| US09832674B2 |
Cloud controller for self-optimized networks
A management system implemented in a cloud computing environment for automatically managing a plurality of Wi-Fi access points in a network can receive information from each of the plurality of Wi-Fi access points. The system can analyze the received information from each Wi-Fi access point to determine at least one operation condition of at least one Wi-Fi access and determine at least one new operation setting for the at least one Wi-Fi access point based on the analyzed information. The system can remotely configure the at least one Wi-Fi access point based on the at least one new operation setting. |
| US09832671B2 |
Modeling radio access networks
A method, a computer program product and a device, the method is for evaluating a state of a radio access network (RAN), and may include parsing control plane massages that are exchanged between the RAN and a core network that is coupled to the RAN; and determining, by an edge bandwidth manager, a current state of the RAN based on the control plane massages. |
| US09832669B2 |
Extensible kernel for adaptive application enhancement
Resource use by applications used by user equipment (UE) is adaptively controlled. A UE can comprise a modem-network kernel component that can be well partitioned from modem operations and can facilitate adaptively controlling use of functional blocks for applications of the UE, and enhancing use of network resources in connection with use of applications by the UE. The kernel component can operate in a protected area of the baseband and can utilize APIs and interfaces available to it by existing modem stacks and UE operating systems. The kernel component can interact with the communication network to adaptively present network enabler functions to other parts of the system. The kernel component can facilitate managing secure communication with the communication network to facilitate proper cross-layer optimization practices, including capabilities for compression and decompression, rate shaping, and event notification associated with the communication network and UE subsystems. |
| US09832666B2 |
Device and method for self-interference cancellation
A method for self-interference cancellation in a wireless communication device. The wireless communication device has an estimator, a transmitter and a cancellation device. The estimator is configured to estimate a known signal received from a second wireless communication device when the second wireless communication device is utilized less than a predetermined threshold. The transmitter is configured to transmit within a coherence time of the estimated known signal, a predetermined signal. The cancellation device is configured to cancel the estimated known signal from a received signal. |
| US09832661B2 |
Access point management
Access point management is described. In an implementation, a method includes selecting one of a plurality of clients, in which each of the clients has a client profile which describes the client's experience with one or more of a plurality of access points. The selecting is performed based on one or more of the client profiles. A determination is made as to whether at least one of the access points utilized by the selected client should be replaced by another one of the access points. The determination includes establishing whether a difference between a connectivity score for the at least one access point and a connectivity score for the other access point exceeds an inertia value. |
| US09832656B2 |
Macro network optimization with assistance from Femto cells
A received signal strength indicator returned from a femto cell is employed to optimize a multiple access wireless communication network. For example, a method operable in a wireless communications network is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a received signal strength indicator from a femto cell situated in a geographical area within a multiple access wireless communication network, and optimizing the multiple access wireless communication network as a function of the received signal strength indicator. |
| US09832654B2 |
Network sharing for LTE-U/LAA cells operating on unlicensed spectrum
Various communication devices may benefit from network sharing. For example, network sharing may be beneficial for long term evolution on unlicensed band (LTE-U) and/or licensed-assisted access (LAA) cells operating on an unlicensed spectrum according to the third generation partnership project. Further, LTE enhancements may be implemented for LAA to unlicensed spectrum, including LTE-U. A method may include preparing information related to a carrier and/or cell operating on a non-licensed spectrum. The method may also include providing, from a network element operating on a licensed spectrum to a user equipment, the information related to the carrier and/or cell operating on the non-licensed spectrum. |
| US09832653B2 |
Dynamic allocation of wireless spectrum for utilization by wireless operator networks
Certain embodiments herein are directed to determining an allocation of wireless spectrum, which may include one or more frequencies for communicating content, among operator networks that provide wireless (for example, cellular) services to their customers. Information associated with a supply of wireless spectrum and a demand for wireless spectrum may be analyzed to determine an allocation of the wireless spectrum. Various techniques may be used to determine the allocation, such as various types of auctions, mathematical or statistical techniques, and/or heuristic approaches that may consider various factors. Upon determining an allocation of the wireless spectrum, configuration information associated with the wireless spectrum may be determined and sent to one or more devices associated with respective operator networks, where the configuration information may be used to configure the operator network to utilize the allocated wireless spectrum. |
| US09832652B1 |
Methods and systems for managing coverage area changes using base station signaling
Disclosed is a method and system for managing coverage area changes using base station signaling. The method may involve a first base station increasing the distance of coverage of the first base station on a first carrier frequency such that the extended coverage extends to a coverage area of a second base station on the first carrier frequency. The second base station may also be providing the coverage area on a second carrier frequency. The method may also involve causing one or more UEs being served by the second base station on the second frequency to prioritize operating on the first carrier frequency of the second base station over operating on the second carrier frequency of the second base station. |
| US09832649B1 |
Secure ID authentication
A secure ID authentication system for authenticating over a multi-channel cellular radio network a response from a user module comprising a SIM card to a request from an application programming interface (API) to authenticate a transaction, in which; a request is sent to an identity application server (IAS) holding a database of user module ID information; the IAS transmits the request over a first channel of the cellular network as a class 2 SMS message to the SIM card; the SIM card causes the request to be displayed on the user module; when a response is entered, the user module encrypts the response and associated data and transmits the encrypted data over a second channel of the cellular network to an over-the-air (OTA) gateway to the IAS; and the IAS decrypts the data and transmits the response to the API. |
| US09832647B1 |
Systems and methods for keyword- and location-based user authentication
Systems and methods for keyword— and location-based user authentication are disclosed. An example method includes, detecting a user request by a first user to complete a gaming task; detecting a user acceptance by a second user to accept the gaming task; tracking a first plurality of locations of the first user; tracking a second plurality of locations of the second user; obtaining a first keyword through a first user device associated with the first user; obtaining a second keyword through a second user device associated with the second user; authenticating the first user in accordance with the second keyword and the first plurality of locations; authenticating the second user in accordance with the first keyword and the second plurality of locations; and deeming the gaming task completed in accordance with authenticating the first user and authenticating the second user. |
| US09832643B2 |
Automated verification of a telephone number
A system and method for automatically verifying a telephone number proffered by a user of an application. During registration or installation of the application, client software is installed on the user's mobile device (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet computer). One of a pool of telephone numbers for outgoing calls is selected, and a call is initiated to the proffered number by the system. The software executing on the user's device detects the incoming call, extracts caller identification data (i.e., the originating telephone number), formats a data communication (e.g., an http request) to include the data, and sends it to the system. The system receives the data communication and compares the data with the originating number. If they match, the user's telephone number is verified. The outgoing call from the system may be canceled before it rings at the device if the data communication is received in time. |
| US09832640B2 |
Wireless connection authentication method and server
A wireless connection authentication method includes: receiving first information transmitted by a first access point according to a message transmitted from a first wireless communications apparatus; receiving second information transmitted by a second access point according to a message transmitted from a second wireless communications apparatus which has already established communication with a second access point; and, if the first access point indicated in the first information and the second access point indicated in the second information are the same access point, determining the same access point as a connection destination access point of the first wireless communications apparatus. |
| US09832636B2 |
Method, device and system for determining working mode of data card type terminal
Provided are a method, device and system for determining a working mode of a data card type terminal. In the method, when a data card type terminal is connected to a wireless AP/CPE or PC, the data card type terminal determines whether a working mode request from the wireless AP/CPE is received; if so, sets a working mode of the data card type terminal to a wireless AP/CPE working mode; otherwise, sets the working mode of the data card type terminal to a PC working mode. In the solution, when the data card type terminal is connected to the wireless AP/CPE or PC, the data card type terminal determines whether a working mode request from the wireless AP/CPE exists, if so, sets a working mode of the data card type terminal to an AP/CPE working mode, while if not, sets the working mode of the data card type terminal to a PC working mode, so that the data card type terminal can automatically adjust, through interaction with the PC or wireless AP/CPE device, the working mode according to different working environments without manual interference of a user. |
| US09832634B2 |
Method for providing multi-number service
A method for providing a multi number service using a universal integrated circuit card (UICC) comprises the steps of: according to a command received from the outside of a UICC, selecting any one subscriber identification information set among a plurality of subscriber identification information sets stored in a memory allocated to a subscriber identification information set managing application; and activating the selected subscriber identification information set. |
| US09832632B2 |
Methods and systems for varying channel scanning duration
A device that includes one or more processors may receive instructions to scan, at a given time, one or more channels in one or more frequency bands for presence of wireless devices in an environment of the device. The device may also identify one or more operations of the device that are occurring at the given time. The device may also adjust a duration of scanning the one or more channels based on the identified operations. The device may also cause a wireless receiver of the device to scan, for the adjusted duration, the one or more channels for the presence of the wireless devices. |
| US09832629B2 |
Discovery signals and network synchronization signals design in LTE
Base stations (such as small cells) may support active and dormant states. To facilitate state transitions, these cells may transmit discovery signals. The transmission design of both discovery signals and network synchronization signals from small cells should provide for regular periodicity, while supporting the benefit of transitioning between active and dormant states. Disclosed is a method, a computer program product, and an apparatus that determine a first reference signal for at least one of discovery or measurement, and a second reference signal for synchronization, where both the first reference signal and the second reference signal are based on a same type of reference signal. |
| US09832628B2 |
Cost-effective mobile connectivity protocols
Structures and protocols are presented for signaling a status or decision concerning a wireless service or device within a region to a network participant or other communication device (smartphone or motor vehicle, e.g.). |
| US09832623B2 |
Energy-efficient push/poll notification service
Techniques for energy efficient notification services are described. A telecommunications device may acquire multimedia/notification service data from various upstream units, e.g., one or more multimedia/notification service servers, at least one push notification service server and/or a storage system. The telecommunications device may select a communication channel between the telecommunications device and the various upstream units for acquiring multimedia/notification service data. The telecommunications device may select the communications channel based at least in part on efficiencies, e.g., it may select the most energy efficient communications channel. The telecommunications device may, in some instances, acquire the multimedia/notification service data as pushes from one or more upstream units (e.g., a push notification service server), and may, in some instances, acquire the multimedia/notification service data as pulls from one or more upstream units (e.g., one or more multimedia/notification service servers and/or a storage system). |
| US09832621B2 |
Method, terminal, server, and system for audio signal transmission
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a real-time voice transmission method and an associated mobile terminal. The method includes: starting collecting voice signal in response to a first user instruction; while collecting the voice signal: encoding and compressing the collected voice signal into voice data; identifying the voice data as a voice data segment and adding a transmission sequence identifier to the voice data segment when the length of voice data reaches a preset data length; generating and displaying a first visual indicator after sending the voice data segment to a voice server; stopping collecting the voice signal in response to a second user instruction; identifying remaining voice data as a last voice data segment and adding a last transmission sequence identifier to the last voice data segment; and generating and displaying a second visual indicator after sending the last voice data segment to the voice server. |
| US09832619B2 |
Automated generation of recommended response messages
An electronic device providing a message service includes: a communication unit configured to exchange a message with another device; a display configured to display a message received from the another device, a message input by the electronic device, and at least one response message generated by the electronic device, all together on a message service screen of the display; and a processor configured to determine whether the received message includes an inquiry, and provide at least one piece of recommended content based on the inquiry in response to the received message being determined as including the inquiry, and transmit the at least one response message comprising the at least one piece of recommended content to the other device. |
| US09832618B2 |
Vehicle-mounted device used in intelligent transport system, communication method, and intelligent transport system using these device and method
An intelligent transport system includes an access point which puts a plurality of channels under control and casts various information and a vehicle-mounted device which directly communicates with the access point or is mounted on a vehicle which performs multi-hop communication, the access point includes broadcast means which broadcast a content of the information to be casted to a plurality of channels as service information, and the vehicle-mounted device includes channel switching means which perform a channel switching so that a desired service can be received on the basis of the service information. |
| US09832616B2 |
Apparatus and method for localization of a mobile wireless device using radio signal parameters
An apparatus for mobile device localization is provided with a primary device. The primary device is configured to transmit a first signal at a first transmission power level to a secondary device and to receive a response signal that is indicative of a quality indicator of the first signal as received by the secondary device. The primary device is further configured to determine a second transmission power level based on the quality indicator; transmit a second signal at the second transmission power level to the secondary device; and to determine a distance between the primary device and the secondary device based on a filtered transmission power level value. |
| US09832613B2 |
Positioning of mobile device
There is provided a solution for detecting and filtering inaccurate measurement results used for positioning a mobile device. A method comprises as performed by an apparatus: determining locations of a plurality of fixed positioning nodes; receiving a measurement report from a mobile device, the measurement report comprising a plurality of measurement values measured by the mobile device, wherein each measurement value comprises a reference signal time difference indicating a radio propagation time difference between the mobile device and two different positioning nodes; determining, on the basis of threshold comparison, that at least one of the plurality of measurement values is associated with an inaccurate measurement; modifying, autonomously by the apparatus, said at least one of the plurality of measurement values; and computing a location of the mobile device on the basis of a plurality of measurement values resulting from said modifying. |
| US09832612B2 |
Generic positioning protocol
In an aspect, a generic positioning protocol (GPP) may be used to support satellite-based positioning methods and terrestrial-based positioning methods for different access types. A terminal may exchange a first GPP message with first information for a positioning method and an access type supported by GPP. The terminal may exchange a second GPP message with second information for the positioning method and the access type. Each GPP message may include at least one position element, and each position element may be for a specific positioning method. The terminal may obtain a position estimate for itself based on the second information. In another aspect, positioning may be performed based on measurements for cells of different wireless access types. In yet another aspect, received transmission times may be transformed to converted times based on common timing, which may be applicable for multiple wireless access types. |
| US09832604B1 |
Location determination of a mobile device based on various parameters
Locating a mobile device in the event of an emergency may be based on common location techniques, such as GPS and geolocation. Additional location techniques may be performed in a sample method of operation which includes receiving a call for assistance from a mobile device, retrieving location information associated with a mobile communication signal associated with the mobile device, retrieving environmental factors associated with an estimated location of the mobile device, and determining the mobile device location based on the mobile communication signal and the environmental factors. |
| US09832603B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining a wireless device's location after shutdown
A wireless data processing device is described which periodically exits an unpowered state and transmits location data. For example, one embodiment of a wireless data processing device comprises: power circuitry for maintaining the wireless data processing device in a powered or unpowered state, the power circuitry causing the wireless data processing device to enter into an unpowered state responsive to user input; a timer to periodically power up the wireless device or portion thereof in response to reaching a predetermined time; a location services module determining a current location of the wireless data processing device using one or more specified location determination techniques; a transmit thread transmitting the current location of the wireless device over one or more specified communication channels; and the power circuitry powering down the wireless data processing device a second time after the current location has been transmitted. |
| US09832600B2 |
Communication system and communication method
A communication system includes a first communication terminal and a second communication terminal. The first communication terminal provides first terminal identification information read out from a memory to a first mobile terminal. The second communication terminal obtains the first terminal identification information from a second mobile terminal, the second mobile terminal being a mobile terminal that has received the first terminal identification information from the first mobile terminal through a first communication session. The second communication terminal further transmits a request for starting communication with the first communication terminal to establish a second communication session with the first communication terminal. |
| US09832597B2 |
Method and apparatus for starting device-to-device operation in wireless communication system
A method and apparatus for starting a device-to-device (D2D) operation in a wireless communication system is provided. A user equipment (UE) supporting proximity services (ProSe) starts a D2D operation if at least one of conditions is satisfied. For example, when the UE detects radio link failure or handover failure, when a radio resource control (RRC) connection re-establishment procedure fails, when any cell is not detected, when neither an acceptable cell or suitable cell is found, when RRC connection release is received, or when the UE enters an idle mode, the UE may start the D2D operation. |
| US09832587B1 |
Assisted near-distance communication using binaural cues
Techniques are described for assisting near distance communications. A first device comprising a receiver, a sensor and a processor may be configured to perform the assisted near distance communication techniques. The receiver may receive, from a second device located within a conversational distance to the first device, monophonic audio data representative of the near distance communication. The sensor may generate a sensor signal representative of spatial information of the near distance communication. The processor may render, based on the spatial information and the monophonic audio data, multi-dimensional audio data in which the near distance communication originates in a soundfield from a location of the second device relative to the first device. The processor may next output the multi-dimensional audio data to a transducer so as to reproduce the near distance communication in multiple dimensions. |
| US09832584B2 |
Method for measuring HOA loudness level and device for measuring HOA loudness level
The invention relates to Higher-Order Ambisonics (HOA) Content Loudness Level Adjustment. A method for adjusting a loudness level of a HOA audio signal on a transmitting side comprises steps of measuring loudness of only the W-channel of the HOA audio signal, and leveling HOA master gain for all channels of the HOA signal according to the measured loudness of the W-channel. |
| US09832582B2 |
Sound effect control method and apparatus
The present invention relates to a sound effect control method and apparatus, where the method includes: when a hands-free call is performed for a mobile terminal, detecting whether a hands-free call channel of the mobile terminal is shielded; and adjusting a configuration of the hands-free call channel of the mobile terminal and/or outputting an alarm signal to inform a user that the hands-free call channel is shielded, when it is detected that the hands-free call channel of the mobile terminal is shielded. According to the method, when a hands-free call is performed for a mobile terminal, whether a hands-free call channel of the mobile terminal is shielded is detected; when it is shielded, a configuration of the hands-free call channel of the mobile terminal is adjusted and/or an alarm signal is output, which can effectively improve quality of the hands-free call of the mobile terminal. |
| US09832579B2 |
Encapsulated hearing device
The present invention relates to an encapulated hearing device (50), e.g. for long-term wear, in which an electronics module (10) is encapsulated into a thermoformed hull (30) by means of an appropriate adhesive (41). This thermoformed hull (30) acts as an improved barrier between the electronics module (10) and the environment of the inner ear, reducing the risk of moisture reaching electrical components. |
| US09832578B2 |
Enabling concurrent proprietary audio and Bluetooth low energy using enhanced LE link layer for hearing device
A battery-powered mobile device allows concurrent wireless transception of control data via standard Bluetooth low energy (BLE) and proprietary audio streaming, using the same physical layer of the radio. Following each BLE connection event, an enhanced link layer clocks a remaining duration of the current idle time period. Requests provided to the enhanced link layer include time slot information for the proprietary audio bursts. The enhanced link layer determines, based on the time slot information, whether each requested burst can be completed during the remaining duration of the current idle time period, appropriately linking payload information of each packet with the BLE control data stack or with a proprietary audio stack, with the BLE control data having priority over the proprietary audio requests. |
| US09832577B2 |
Sound processor apparatuses that facilitate low power component type detection and communication with a programming system
An exemplary sound processor apparatus included in an auditory prosthesis system includes 1) an interface assembly that includes at least a first contact, 2) a first switchable current source having an output coupled to the first contact of the interface assembly by way of a first data line, 3) a differential transmitter having an output coupled to the first contact of the interface assembly by way of the first data line, 4) a differential receiver having an input coupled to the first contact of the interface assembly by way of the first data line, and 5) a control module communicatively coupled to the first switchable current source, the differential transmitter, and the differential receiver and configured to selectively operate in a component type detection mode and in a programming mode. Corresponding sound processor apparatuses, systems, and methods are also described. |
| US09832575B2 |
Wireless sound transmission and method
A system for providing sound to at least one user has at least one audio signal source, a transmission unit with a digital transmitter audio data packets from the audio signal source via a wireless digital audio link; at least one receiver unit having at least one digital receiver; and a hearing stimulator responsive to audio signals from the receiver unit. The transmission unit encodes the audio signal as audio data blocks distributed onto at least two audio data packets, one of which is a low-quality packet, and one of which is a high quality packet only a low-quality version of the audio signal being retrievable from the low-quality packets, and a high-quality version of the audio signal being retrievable from both the low-quality packets and the high-quality packets. The low-quality packets and the high-quality packets are transmitted in respective dedicated slots of a multiple access protocol frame. |
| US09832569B1 |
Multichannel acoustic echo cancellation with unique individual channel estimations
A multi-channel echo cancellation system that dynamically adapts to changes in acoustic conditions. The system does not require a sequence of “start-up” tones to determine the impulse responses. Rather, the adaptive filters approximate estimated transfer functions for each channel. A secondary adaptive filter adjusts cancellation to adapt to changes in the actual transfer functions over time after the adaptive filters have been trained, even if the reference signals are not unique relative to each other. |
| US09832567B2 |
Acoustic port with an embedded membrane
An electronic device having an assembly is disclosed. The assembly is designed to regulate fluid flow into the electronic device. The assembly may include a membrane having air-permeable and liquid-resistant properties. In other to protect the membrane, the assembly includes a support member and a compressible membrane. Also, the assembly may further include a first housing member and a second housing member that combine to surround the membrane. Each feature of the assembly may include an opening to allow air to pass the assembly. When disposed in an opening of the electronic device, the assembly allows the device to receive air that is used by an operational component in the electronic device. The assembly protects the operational component from liquid ingress while allowing the operational component to communicate with the environment external to the device. The operation component may include a microphone, an audio speaker, or a pressure sensor. |
| US09832561B2 |
Detachable audio system for head-mounted displays
A detachable audio system with an interface plate mounted on a head strap, and a mounting plate assembly removably attachable to the interface plate with a portion of the strap between the plates to provide independent electrical and mechanical connections between the plates. The mounting plate assembly connects to an earbud assembly via a flexible audio cable. The mounting plate assembly has a threaded attachment member that mates with a threaded attachment member on the interface plate. A pair of electrical connectors on opposing sides of the threaded attachment member protrude from spaced apart cylindrical bosses, such that when the mounting plate is attached to the interlace plate, independent mechanical and electrical connections are provided for detachable retention and operation of the earbud assembly. |
| US09832560B1 |
Headset providing private and detachable loudspeaker audio and external device charging
Disclosed is a headset for playing audio and charging an external electronic device. The headset includes a first earpiece including a first inner speaker and a first outer speaker, a second earpiece including a second inner speaker and a second outer speaker, a selector operable to select play modes, the play modes including a first play mode and a second play mode, the first play mode being configured to play audio via the inner speakers, the second play mode being configured to play audio via the outer speakers, and a chargeable power bank being configured to provide power through a power output jack. One or more of the speakers may include a chargeable power bank for providing power to an external device and/or a wireless communicator for receiving audio signals. One or more of the speakers may be detachably securable to a headband. |
| US09832557B2 |
Slim microspeaker
A microspeaker includes a frame, magnetic circuit, voice coil configured to generate vibration by mutual electromagnetic force with the magnetic circuit, vibration plate configured to vibrate together according to the vibration of the voice coil to generate a sound, and suspension configured to guide a vibration direction of the vibration plate and voice coil. The suspension has a central portion attached to the voice coil, an annular outer circumferential portion formed to be spaced apart from the central portion by a predetermined interval, and a connection portion connecting the central and outer circumferential portions and configured to perform a damping function. The central portion has an outer end having the same height as the connection and outer circumferential portions, an inner end positioned to be higher than the outer end, and a step portion connecting the outer end and inner end. The voice coil is attached to the inner end. |
| US09832554B2 |
Magnetic floating loudspeaker
A magnetic floating speaker includes a seat having a shell and a magnetic floating controller and a lower magnet both received in the shell. A floating member floating and located above the seat has a cover, a bass unit, two full range units and an upper magnet all received in the cover. The magnetism of the upper magnet and the lower magnet is mutually exclusive. The bass unit is surrounded by said two full range units and faces to a first direction, said two full range units face to a second direction and a third direction respectively which located at two sides of the first direction, the second direction and the third direction each forms an acute angle with the first direction respectively. |
| US09832551B2 |
Optical transmission device and optical transmission control method
An optical transmission device includes: a receiver configured to receive a signal including data; a generator configured to generate an output clock to output the data based on a signal clock synchronized with the signal; and a controller configured to control a frequency of the output clock based on a first amount of the data so that the output clock follows a clock of a transmission source of the data. |
| US09832545B2 |
System and method for providing a distributed directional aperture
A distributed directional aperture (DDA) system provides the capability to receive and/or transmit signals, limiting that reception or transmission to a 3-dimensional beam. The DDA system includes sensing and/or emitting array subsystems which comprise sensors and/or emitters distributed across, within, or under the skin of an aircraft, ship, ground vehicle, or fixed installation. The sensors receive energy, convert the received signals to digital information, and transmit that information via a telemetry subsystem to a beamformer subsystem. The beamformer subsystem analyzes the received signals from the sensors and/or emitters in order to determine the signal content from a specific direction. The emitters transmit energy, converting signals received from the beamformer subsystem via the telemetry subsystem into energy emissions. Methods of providing the DDA system including subsystems thereof are also disclosed. |
| US09832542B2 |
Patch panel system and jack module attachment thereto
A jack module includes a chassis, a frame, and jacks. The jack module is configured to releasably hold any of a plurality of types of jacks. Each jack is configured to releasably mount to the frame. The frame is configured to couple to the chassis so that rear portions of the jacks extend rearwardly from the chassis. The jack module mounts to a rear of a patch panel frame by coupling the jack module to a faceplate mounted at a front of the patch panel frame. |
| US09832540B2 |
Method and apparatus for hybrid transcoding of a media program
A method and apparatus for encoding a source media program is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of transcoding the source media program to produce a constant video quality transcoded version of the media program, determining if a portion of constant video quality version of the transcoded media program fails to satisfy a constraint, if the portion of the transcoded media program fails to satisfy the constraint, adjusting at least one transcoding parameter of a set of transcoding parameters, transcoding the portion of the source media program according to the adjusted at least one transcoding parameter to produce a constant bit rate version of the portion of the transcoded media program, and substituting the constant bit rate version of the portion of the transcoded media program for the constant video quality portion of the transcoded media program. |
| US09832539B2 |
Method and apparatus for communicating emergency information
A method that incorporates teachings of the subject disclosure may include, for example transmitting, by a system comprising a processor, via a first emergency media channel a first video stream comprising first evacuation routing information for a first evacuation group responsive to receiving a notification of an emergency event, instructing, by the system, a first media processor device to select the first emergency media channel while disabling selection of other media channels according to the first evacuation routing information, where the content of the emergency media channel is presented at a display device by way of the first media processor device, and enabling, by the system, the first media processor device to select the other media channels responsive to receiving user input acknowledging the emergency media channel. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09832537B2 |
Methods and systems for recording and sharing digital video
A method includes receiving and processing an electronic signal that represents television content to provide a first media signal that is playable to present a forward-playback of the television content. The method also includes, responsive to a first instruction, providing a second media signal that is playable to present a reverse-playback of the television content, and recording a portion of the television content that corresponds to the reverse-playback. Further, the method includes, responsive to a second instruction, stopping the recording of the television content. In addition, the method includes, responsive to a third instruction, saving one or more recorded portions of the television content. The method also includes, responsive to receiving a fourth instruction, communicating the saved recording of the television content to a separate computing device. |
| US09832535B2 |
Remote control video modulator
A video modulator is presented. The modulator includes a video input interface, a video modulation circuit, a video output interface, a communication interface, and control circuitry. The video input interface is configured to receive a video signal to be modulated, the video modulation circuit is configured to modulate the video signal, and the video output interface is configured to transmit the modulated video signal. The communication interface is configured to receive a command via a communication link to control the video modulator. The control circuitry is configured to receive the command from the communication interface and to control at least one of the video input interface, the video modulation circuit, and the video output interface based on the command. |
| US09832534B2 |
Content transmission device and content playback device
A content transmission unit (22) is provided that performs chunk transfer of a segment to a client (2) in subsegment unit, the subsegment being formed by dividing the segment into a plurality of pieces after receiving a request requiring transmission of the segment from the client (2). |
| US09832526B2 |
Smart playback method for TV programs and associated control device
A smart playback method for TV programs includes: converting voice data to text data including a plurality of words; selecting a keyword from the words in the text data; providing a TV program according to the keyword; and controlling a screen to play the TV program. |
| US09832525B2 |
Set-top disk health diagnostics
Methods, systems, and computer readable media can be operable to monitor for and alert the occurrence of pre-failure indicators at a set-top box (STB) disk. Results of self-monitoring tests, short tests, and maximum/minimum performance tests may be used to identify the potential for a STB disk failure. Moreover, critical error events at the STB may be logged, and the health of the STB disk may be determined based on the logged critical error events. Test results and critical error event logs may be used to predict an impending failure of a STB disk, and a notification may be output to a user or technician indicating the potential need to replace the STB or STB disk. |
| US09832523B2 |
Commercial detection based on audio fingerprinting
A commercial detection system generates a probe audio fingerprint of an audio signal associated with a media stream on a broadcast channel and determines whether the media stream has commercial content based on analysis of the probe audio fingerprint. The commercial detection system determines whether a same match between the probe audio fingerprint and a reference audio fingerprint is observed across multiple broadcast channels. Responsive to the number of same matches exceeding a predetermined threshold, the commercial detection system determines that the media stream has commercial content. The commercial detection system may also apply a trained feature analysis model to extracted acoustic features of the audio signal. The commercial detection system determines whether the media stream has commercial content based on a confidence score assigned to the probe audio fingerprint. The commercial detection system reduces false positive detection using program guide information of the media stream. |
| US09832518B2 |
Synchronization of processing media streams by one or more media processing devices
Methods, media processing devices and cache nodes for enabling instant synchronization of processing of data units of a primary media stream and of one or more secondary streams by at least one media processing device are described. The method may comprise the steps of: selecting a primary media stream that is broadcasted by a broadcast source, said primary media stream being associated with at least one secondary stream; receiving data units of said primary media stream and data units of said at least one secondary media streams; providing cache timing information associated with a time delay between the availability by said at least one media processing device to data units of said primary stream and to corresponding data units of said secondary stream; and, requesting one or more cache data units from at least one cache server on the basis of said cache timing information, wherein at least part of said cache data units correspond to data units of said primary media stream that, at the time the primary media stream was selected by said media processing device, were already broadcasted by said broadcast source. |
| US09832516B2 |
Systems and methods for multiple device interaction with selectably presentable media streams
A system for multiple device interaction with selectably presentable multimedia content includes an output engine, an input engine, a manager, and a memory that stores selectably presentable multimedia content segments. Each content segment represents a predefined portion of one or more content paths. The output engine, executing on a first device, receives a subset of the content segments, assembles them into a seamless multimedia presentation that is one of the content paths, and plays the assembled multimedia presentation. The input engine, executing on a second device, receives user interactions associated with the multimedia presentation, and the manager coordinates the multimedia presentation among multiple devices based on the user interactions. A method implementing the above steps is also included. |
| US09832514B2 |
Receiver of television and/or radio signals, configured to prepare access to content included in said television and/or radio signals based on the geographical location of said receiver
A receiver of radio and/or television signals, where the signals are transmitted via radio by transmitters and are received by said receiver, including: a means for receiving signals via radio that, through tuning information, is configurable for reception of content of the received radio and/or television signals; a memory means containing at least geographic transmission information, which includes geographical areas of coverage of the transmitters that transmit the signals received by the reception means, wherein the geographical transmission information is comparable with the tuning information; and a central computing unit configured to determine the geographical location of the receiver according to the geographical transmission information and the tuning information, the central computing unit also being configured to prepare access to the tuning information based on the geographical location of the receiver in order to organize access to the contents relating to the location of the receiver. |
| US09832511B2 |
Set-top box with enhanced controls
A set-top box with enhanced content and system and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a wireless transceiver is located within a housing, which also interconnectively includes a television input, television output, a processor, and memory. The set-top box may establish a pairing with a proximate wireless-enabled interactive programmable device having a display. Content, such music, for example, may be imported from the proximate wireless-enabled interactive programmable device and provided to the television. While the music is playing, the set-top box may generate and provide to the television a control signal that includes instructions to adjust the brightness of the television by dimming the television. |
| US09832510B2 |
Deceptive indicia profile generation from communications interactions
Systems, methods, computer-readable storage mediums including computer-readable instructions and/or circuitry for generating deceptive indicia profiles may implement operations including, but not limited to: detecting one or more indicia of deception associated with one or more signals associated with communication content provided by a participant in a first communications interaction; detecting one or more indicia of deception associated with one or more signals associated with communications content provided by the participant in a second communications interaction; generating a deceptive indicia profile for the participant according to indicia of deception detected in the communications content provided by the participant in the first communications interaction and indicia of deception detected in the communications content provided by the participant in the second communications interaction; and providing a notification associated with the deceptive indicia profile for the participant to the participant. |
| US09832508B2 |
System and method for home security monitoring using a television set-top box
Techniques disclosed herein enable automated home security monitoring via a television connected to a set-top box, such as a cable set-top box. Such techniques integrate the television with a home security system. A television viewer can use the television to control, interact, and automatically receive information about home security events in real-time. A television viewer can control lighting, and room temperature, and arm/disarm sensors in the home such as door sensors, motion detectors, cameras, etc, as well as access camera images. Events from such sensors can be monitored or viewed on the television set when they are triggered. For example, when triggered, an icon representing the sensor can be shown on the television screen, or in case of a camera, an image or video can be shown that cause the triggered event. |
| US09832503B2 |
Optimizing ABR segment sizes for mobile video outage coverage in an ABR streaming network
A scheme for optimizing segment sizes for an adaptive bitrate (ABR) streaming client engaged in a current ABR streaming session. In one implementation, a determination is made whether a wireless UE device executing the ABR streaming client is approaching a radio white spot area. If so, a video buffer of the ABR client is configured to preload a fixed number of segments having an adjusted size depending on the duration of the radio white spot area. The preloaded segments may comprise lower quality video segments, and as the wireless UE device exits the radio white spot area, the segment size and/or bitrates may be restored depending on the signal quality. |
| US09832501B2 |
Video programming and suggestion system
A system may receive a first list of users of a provider network. For each of the first list of users, the system may obtain data pertaining to the user's categories of interest from a social media system; infer video programs based on the data; infer a list of one or more video channels based on the video programs; score the one or more video channels; rank the list of one or more video channels based on the scores; and recommend the ranked list of one or more video channels. |
| US09832497B2 |
Marker-based inter-destination media synchronization
A method and a system enabling inter-destination synchronization of processing of content of at least a first and second media stream, wherein said first and second media stream are associated with one or more markers for marking one or more content parts of said first and second media streams respectively. The method comprises the steps of: detecting a first marked content part in said first media stream and a second marked content part in said second media stream, said first and second market content part being associated with a first and second marker respectively; associating first timing information, preferably comprising a first clock time, with said detected first marked content part and associating second timing information, preferably comprising a second clock time, with said detected second marked content part; determining a timing difference on the basis of said first and second timing information; and, generating on the basis of said timing difference synchronization information for enabling a first and/or second synchronization client to adjust the processing of said first and/or second media stream respectively. |
| US09832495B2 |
Hospitality media system that avoids network congestion and server load while providing media experience within guest room, and computer server and method thereof
A method of servicing requests for information at a server includes receiving a request for information from a client device, and determining a number of attempts of the request made by the client device. Both the client device and the server may count the number of attempts for each request. When the number of attempts is greater than a threshold, the method includes servicing the request and sending the information to the client device. When the number of attempts is not greater than the threshold, the method includes sending a service unavailable message to the client device. A retry-after delay may be calculated by the server according to a predicted time for the server to exit an overloaded state and included in the service unavailable message. The predicted time may take into account both requests currently being serviced and requests that have been scheduled to be serviced in the future. |
| US09832493B2 |
Method and apparatus for processing audio/video file
A method and apparatus for processing an audio/video file. By determining an audio/video file to be processed and then determining loadable audio/video promotion information for the audio/video file according to at least one of attribute information about a target user and attribute information about the audio/video file, the disclosed embodiments can carry out a merge operation on the audio/video file and the audio/video promotion information. Since the audio/video promotion information is promotion information matching at least one of the attribute information about the target user and the attribute information about the audio/video file, pushing audio/video promotion information during the playing of the audio/video file will arouse the interest of the target user so as to perform a further operation behavior on the audio/video promotion information such that accurate pushing of the audio/video promotion information can be ensured, thereby improving the conversion rate of the audio/video promotion information. |
| US09832485B2 |
Context adaptive entropy coding for non-square blocks in video coding
Disclosed are techniques for coding coefficients of a video block having a non-square shape defined by a width and a height, comprising coding one or more of x- and y-coordinates that indicate a position of a last non-zero coefficient within the block according to an associated scanning order, including coding each coordinate by determining one or more contexts used to code the coordinate based on one of the width and the height that corresponds to the coordinate, and coding the coordinate by performing a context adaptive entropy coding process based on the contexts. Also disclosed are techniques for coding information that identifies positions of non-zero coefficients within the block, including determining one or more contexts used to code the information based on one or more of the width and the height, and coding the information by performing a context adaptive entropy coding process based on the contexts. |
| US09832479B2 |
Motion estimation apparatus and method for multiview video
A motion estimation apparatus and method (carried out electronically) provides for encoding of multiview video, such as stereoscopic video, by providing motion estimation for pixels in a dependent eye view, using motion vector information from a colocated group of pixels in a base eye view and neighboring pixels to the colocated group of pixels in the base eye view. The method and apparatus encodes a group of pixels in a dependent eye view based on the estimated motion vector information. The method and apparatus may also include obtaining a frame of pixels that includes both base eye view pixels and dependent eye pixels so that, for example, frame compatible format packing can be employed. In one example, estimating the motion vector information for a block of pixels, for example, in a dependent eye view is based on a median value calculation of motion vectors for a block of pixels in a base eye view and motion vectors for neighboring blocks of pixels to the colocated group of pixels in the base eye view. An apparatus and method may include transmitting the encoded dependent eye view and base eye view information to another device and decoding the encoded dependent eye view and base eye view information for display. |
| US09832474B2 |
Method and apparatus for setting reference picture index of temporal merging candidate
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for setting a reference picture index of a temporal merging candidate. An inter-picture prediction method using a temporal merging candidate can include the steps of: determining a reference picture index for a current block; and inducing a temporal merging candidate block of the current block and calculating a temporal merging candidate from the temporal merging candidate block, wherein the reference picture index of the temporal merging candidate can be calculated regardless of whether a block other than the current block is decoded. Accordingly, a video processing speed can be increased and video processing complexity can be reduced. |
| US09832464B2 |
Method and apparatus for encoding/decoding image using transform skip flag
Provided is a method for decoding an image. The method may include deciding a prediction mode that corresponds to a chroma component block; deciding a transform skip mode of the chroma component block from a plurality of transform skip mode candidates, according to the prediction mode that corresponds to the chroma component block; and reverse-transforming the chroma component block on the basis of the transform skip mode that is decided. |
| US09832460B2 |
Image coding apparatus, method for coding image, program therefor, image decoding apparatus, method for decoding image, and program therefor
An image coding method for dividing an input image into a plurality of divisional blocks having different sizes, and coding the image for each of the divisional blocks includes acquiring attribute information of a target block, setting a control parameter for controlling an image quality of the target block, determining a prediction control parameter based on the attribute information, calculating a difference value between the control parameter and the prediction control parameter, and coding the calculated difference value. |
| US09832457B2 |
Autostereoscopic 3D image display device for flattening viewing zone and minimizing dynamic crosstalk
The present invention relates to a 3D image display device and includes an image display panel for displaying a 3D image, a control unit for controlling a viewpoint image, and a viewer position tracking system for determining the position of a viewer's pupil and transmitting positional information to the control unit, wherein the image display panel provides multiple viewpoints such as four or more viewpoints, and the intersection of the viewing zone for any one of the multiple viewpoints with the field of view of an adjacent viewpoint is at least 85% of the maximum brightness of one viewpoint. |
| US09832450B2 |
Methods and apparatus for generating and using reduced resolution images and/or communicating such images to a playback or content distribution device
Methods and apparatus for using selective resolution reduction on images to be transmitted and/or used by a playback device are described. Prior to transmission one or more images of an environment are captured. Based on image content, motion detection and/or user input a resolution reduction operation is selected and performed. The reduced resolution image is communicated to a playback device along with information indicating a UV map corresponding to the selected resolution allocation that should be used by the playback device for rendering the communicated image. By changing the resolution allocation used and which UV map is used by the playback device different resolution allocations can be made with respect to different portions of the environment while allowing the number of pixels in transmitted images to remain constant. The playback device renders the individual images with the UV map corresponding to the resolution allocation used to generate the individual images. |
| US09832449B2 |
Methods and apparatus for controlling a viewing position
Methods and apparatus for allowing a user to switch viewing positions and/or perspective while viewing an environment, e.g., as part of a 3D playback/viewing experience, are described. In various embodiments images of the environment are captured using cameras placed at multiple camera positions. During viewing a user can select which camera position he/she would like to experience the environment from. While experiencing the environment from the perspective of a first camera position the user may switch from the first to a second camera position by looking at the second position. A visual indication is provided to the user to indicate that the user can select the other camera position as his/her viewing position. If a user input indicates a desired viewing position change, a switch to the alternate viewing position is made and the user is presented with images captured from the perspective of the user selected alternative viewing position. |
| US09832448B2 |
Multi-processor support for array imagers
Using the techniques discussed herein, a set of images is captured by one or more array imagers (106). Each array imager includes multiple imagers configured in various manners. Each array imager captures multiple images of substantially a same scene at substantially a same time. The images captured by each array image are encoded by multiple processors (112, 114). Each processor can encode sets of images captured by a different array imager, or each processor can encode different sets of images captured by the same array imager. The encoding of the images is performed using various image-compression techniques so that the information that results from the encoding is smaller, in terms of storage size, than the uncompressed images. |
| US09832447B2 |
Image processing system and image processing program
In the present invention, the following are provided: a 3D information generating unit (3) for generating 3D information as the data of a group of a plurality of points formed by projecting the values of respective pixels of a moving object in accordance with depth information detected from an image pickup image; an overlooking image generating unit (4) for generating an overlooking image by synthesizing the 3D information of the moving object with a space image of an image pickup target region; and a display control unit (5) for displaying the overlooking image. The present invention is configured so that, even in a case where there are multiple image pickup target regions in a large-scale building in which the floor configuration is complicated, it is unnecessary to display multiple image pickup images using split screen display, and by displaying one overlooking image formed by synthesizing the 3D information of the moving objects formed from the groups of a plurality of points with each of a plurality of image pickup target regions which are included in the entire space of the building, the overall state of the building can be ascertained in one glance by confirming the overlooking image. |
| US09832444B2 |
Three-dimensional object detection device
A three-dimensional object detection device includes an image capturing unit, an image conversion unit, a three-dimensional object detection unit and a light source detection unit. The image conversion unit converts a viewpoint of the images obtained by the image capturing unit to create bird's-eye view images. The three-dimensional object detection unit detects a presence of a three-dimensional object within the adjacent lane. The three-dimensional object detection unit determines the presence of the three-dimensional object within the adjacent lane-when the difference waveform information is at a threshold value or higher. The three-dimensional object detection unit set a threshold value lower so that the three-dimensional object is more readily detected in a rearward area than forward area with respect to a line connecting the light source and the image capturing unit. |
| US09832441B2 |
Supplemental content on a mobile device
Methods, systems, devices, and software are described for providing supplemental content for presentation on a mobile device that identifies a video and a portion within the video. In one embodiment, a system includes a mobile device with an integrated video camera that tracks a display playing a movie. The mobile device automatically identifies the current scene in the movie and then accesses supplemental non-video content related to the identified scene. The accessed supplemental non-video content (e.g., audio, tactile, olfactory data) is then presented to the user at the same time the movie is played. |
| US09832440B2 |
Reproduction device, reproduction method, and recording medium that display graphics based on tone mapping
The present technology relates to a reproduction device, a reproduction method, and a recording medium capable of displaying graphics with a broader dynamic range of luminance and appropriate brightness. The reproduction device reads a Tone_map stream and a graphics stream of an extended graphics from a recording device, wherein the recording device records the Tone_map stream including HDR information indicating a luminance feature of the extended graphics which are first graphics with a first luminance range different from and broader than a second luminance range, and a luminance conversion definition information used in luminance conversion from the extended graphics to standard graphics. The standard graphics are graphics with the second luminance range. The reproduction device converts the extended graphics into the standard graphics based on the luminance conversion definition information of the extended graphics included in the Tone map stream. |
| US09832437B2 |
Color sequential display
Described are improved approaches to implement color sequential displays that can mitigate problems with conventional display technologies. Color-breakup is mitigated by modifying the original color channels and adding one or more additional color channels derived from the original ones. |
| US09832436B1 |
Image projection system and image projection method
An image projection system includes an infrared ray projection apparatus that projects a pattern image for shape measurement toward a projection target, an imaging device that captures the pattern image, a calculation device that acquires three-dimensional shape information of the projection target based on the captured pattern image and converts a content image into a projection content image corresponding to the projection target based on the three-dimensional shape information, and a visible light projection apparatus that is disposed in a different position from the infrared ray projection apparatus and projects the projection content image toward the projection target, in which the calculation device, based on images of a visible light image projected by the visible light projection apparatus and a non-visible light image projected by the infrared ray projection apparatus, executes processing of associating each pixel of the non-visible light image with each pixel of the visible light image. |
| US09832435B2 |
Optical scanning image forming apparatus and optical scanning image forming method
An optical scanning image forming apparatus includes: a light source section; an illumination scanning section; a light detection section; a calculation section calculating a drive waveform for providing a illumination light scanning pattern; and an image drawing section drawing an image, based on detection light detected by the light detection section and image construction coordinates, the calculation section providing different light scanning patterns to the illumination scanning section and calculating distortion correction data, based on comparison between data on the detection lights detected when scanned in the different scanning patterns. An optical scanning image forming method includes: providing different light scanning patterns to an illumination scanning section which scans the illumination light from a light source section to irradiate an object with the illumination light; and calculating distortion correction data, based on comparison between data on the detection light detected when scanned in the different scanning patterns. |
| US09832426B2 |
Around view monitor system and monitoring method
The present disclosure relates to an around view monitor (AVM) system that provides image information on the ambient conditions of a vehicle to a driver. In displaying a top-view image in which the front, rear, left, and right conditions of a vehicle are seen downward from a portion over the vehicle, an AVM system and method checks a driving state or driving direction of the vehicle on the basis of information received from sensors and elements included in the vehicle, and outputs the top-view image which is suitably edited depending on the driving conditions, thereby providing information necessary for driving to a driver. |
| US09832415B2 |
TV set base with a supporting and a retracted state
In one aspect, a TV set is provided. A base includes two supporting mounts. One end of the first supporting mount is rotatably connected with a back side of a display screen assembly. The second supporting mount includes two supporting arms symmetrically disposed on two sides of the first supporting mount. One end of each supporting arm is rotatably connected with the first supporting mount respectively at a rotatory connection point. When the base is in a supporting state, for each supporting arm, a triangular supporting structure is formed by the rotatory connection point, the other end of the first supporting mount, and the other end of the supporting arm. When the base is in a retracted state, the first supporting mount is attached to the back side of the display screen assembly, and the second supporting mount is superimposed on an outer side wall of the first supporting mount. |
| US09832414B2 |
System and circuit for television power state control
A system and circuit for television power state control are disclosed. In one embodiment, a power management circuit is coupled to a television and interposed between a video feed and an image display engine as well as between an audio feed and a speaker. The power management circuit selectively alternates the television between three states: powered ON/operating state (first state); power standby state (second state); and no/low power state (third state). Utilized with a television in a commercial application, the system and circuit are employed to provide accelerated turn-on time to receive an image for user interaction, while providing sufficient control to maintain energy power savings. |
| US09832413B2 |
Automated channel detection with one-way control of a channel source
Features of various implementations are used to enable delivery of matched functionality, content and/or services, as a part of an interactive television suite of technologies. In some implementations, a content delivery process is enabled so that communication between the primary TV receiver and a supplemental set-top box is reduced in order to avoid the need for one or more provider-specific APIs. For example, one aspect of the disclosure is a method of identifying a media program by capturing display data from the media program, and extracting text from the display data in response to determining that the display data includes the text overlay, wherein the extracted text is associated with the media program. In some implementations, a supplemental set-top box is configured to operate a primary TV receiver, without a provider-specific API, in order to determine the channel line-up available to a particular subscriber through the primary TV receiver. |
| US09832409B2 |
Image sensor
A high-accurate imaging increased in time resolution can be made. The camera device is provided with a plurality of pixels that include a light-receiving surface embedded region to convert incident light into charges, a charge accumulation region to accumulate the charges, and a gate electrode to control the charges to be transferred from the light-receiving surface embedded region to the charge accumulation region, and are one-dimensionally arranged in each of a plurality of columns, a timing generation circuit which generates a control pulse voltage to be applied to the gate electrode, and a correction circuit unit which is provided in accordance with each of a plurality of columns of the pixels, delays the control pulse voltage in a variable time, and applies the control pulse voltage to the gate electrodes of the plurality of pixels belonging to a column corresponding to the control pulse voltage. |
| US09832403B2 |
Solid-state imaging device, electronic apparatus, and inspection apparatus
A solid-state imaging device includes a first pixel and a second pixel. The first pixel includes a light-shielding part having an opening of a predetermined size. The second pixel includes a light-shielding part having an opening of the predetermined size at a position different from a position of the opening of the first pixel. |
| US09832402B2 |
Row and column noise correction with defective pixel processing
Row and column noise calibration and correction includes obtaining pixel values from a row/column of calibration pixels and from a corresponding row/column of bright pixels. Defective calibration pixels are detected based on the pixel values of the row/column of calibration pixels. For example, calibration pixels with pixel values outside a predetermined range may be detected as defective. The pixel values of defective calibration pixels may be removed from the pixel data, or a corrected pixel value substituted in lieu thereof. An average of the pixel values of the row/column of calibration pixels is used to correct the pixel values of the corresponding row/column of bright pixels. |
| US09832400B2 |
Image sensor and method of sensing image
An image sensor includes a pixel array unit including an active pixel area including active pixels, a first dark area including first dark pixels, and a second dark area including second dark pixels, an offset extractor configured to extract a final dark offset value, and a corrector configured to correct pixel data values of the active pixels based on the final dark offset value. The offset extractor extracts a per-column dark offset value, a global dark offset value, a per-row average, and a per-row noise value, selects one of the extracted per-column dark offset value and global dark offset value, and extracts the final dark offset value from the per-row noise value and either the per-column dark offset value or the global dark offset value. |
| US09832397B2 |
Image taping in a multi-camera array
Multiple cameras are arranged in an array at a pitch, roll, and yaw that allow the cameras to have adjacent fields of view such that each camera is pointed inward relative to the array. The read window of an image sensor of each camera in a multi-camera array can be adjusted to minimize the overlap between adjacent fields of view, to maximize the correlation within the overlapping portions of the fields of view, and to correct for manufacturing and assembly tolerances. Images from cameras in a multi-camera array with adjacent fields of view can be manipulated using low-power warping and cropping techniques, and can be taped together to form a final image. |
| US09832394B2 |
Adaptive low-light view modes
This document describes techniques and apparatuses for implementing adaptive low-light view modes. These techniques and apparatuse enable a computing device to capture infrared (IR) imagery at a particular location and retrieve, based on the particular location, previously-captured imagery that corresponds with the IR imagery. The IR imagery and previously-captured imagery can then be combined to provide composite imagery, which is presented to a user. By so doing, the user's view of the particular location can be enhanced, particularly in low-light conditions. |
| US09832390B2 |
Image capturing device
A first photographing mode in which plural pieces of image information are acquired while a configuration of an exposure is fixed and a focus position is changed and a second photographing mode in which plural pieces of the image information are acquired while the focus position is fixed and the configuration of the exposure is changed are included, and image processing is performed from the pieces of image information that are acquired in the first photographing mode and the second photographing mode. |
| US09832389B2 |
Apparatus for generating image and method thereof
An apparatus includes an image conversion unit suitable for converting a short exposure block according to an exposure ratio; a motion and saturation detection unit suitable for receiving a long exposure block and an L short exposure block converted by the image conversion unit, and detecting motion and saturation; a radiance map generation unit suitable for fusing the long and L short exposure blocks using a guided filter, and generating a radiance map; a luminance acquirement unit suitable for acquiring luminance of the radiance map, and generating luminance using the L short exposure block or respectively generating luminance using the long and L short exposure blocks; and a dynamic range compression unit suitable for performing global tone mapping using the luminance acquired by the luminance acquirement unit, and compressing a dynamic range. |
| US09832388B2 |
Deinterleaving interleaved high dynamic range image by using YUV interpolation
Systems and methods for generating high dynamic images from interleaved Bayer array data with high spatial resolution and reduced sampling artifacts. Bayer array data are demosaiced into components of the YUV color space before deinterleaving. The Y component and the UV components can be derived from the Bayer array data through demosiac convolution processes. A respective convolution is performed between a convolution kernel and a set of adjacent pixels of the Bayer array that are in the same color channel. A convolution kernel is selected based the mosaic pattern of the Bayer array and the color channels of the set of adjacent pixels. The Y data and UV data are deinterleaved and interpolated into frames of short exposure and long exposures in the second color space. The short exposure and long exposure frames are then blended and converted back to a RGB frame representing a high dynamic range image. |
| US09832386B2 |
External recognition apparatus and excavation machine using external recognition apparatus
An external recognition apparatus and an excavation machine using the external recognition apparatus, the external recognition apparatus including: a three-dimensional distance measurement device configured to acquire distance information in a three-dimensional space in a predetermined, region which is under a hydraulic shovel and which includes a region to be excavated by the hydraulic shovel; a plane surface estimation unit configured to estimate a plane surface in the predetermined region based on the distance information; and an excavation object region recognition unit configured to recognize the region to be excavated in the predetermined region based on the plane surface and the distance information. |
| US09832385B2 |
Display device and control method
A display device includes circuitry configured to: selectively execute a first control and a second control, the first control performing both a capture process by an image capturing device and an image recognition process which detects specific object from an image captured by the image capturing device, and the second control performing the capture process from among the capture process and the image recognition device, and display a content corresponding to the specific object on the image during an execution of the first control when the specific object is detected from the image in the image recognition process during the execution of the first control. |
| US09832381B2 |
Optical image stabilization for thin cameras
Systems and methods for optical image stabilization of thin cameras are disclosed. An image stabilization system for a camera system includes a stabilization platform configured to support a camera system, a camera housing, a fulcrum rotationally and pivotally connecting the stabilization platform to the camera housing, the fulcrum configured such that the stabilization platform can tilt and rotate relative to the camera housing in at least one of the pitch, roll, and yaw directions, at least one gyroscope rigidly connected to the stabilization platform, and at least one actuator coupled to the stabilization platform and configured to cause tilting or rotation of the stabilization platform in at least one of the pitch, roll, and yaw directions. |
| US09832378B2 |
Exposure mapping and dynamic thresholding for blending of multiple images using floating exposure
Special blend operations for wide area-of-view image generation utilizing a “floating auto exposure” scheme are described. Pixel values in the two images being stitched together are blended within a transition band around a “seam.” identified in the overlap region between the images after changes in exposure and/or color saturation are accounted for. In some embodiments, changes in exposure and/or color saturation are accounted for through the use of one or more exposure mapping curves, the selection and use of which are based, at least in part, on a determined “Exposure Ratio” value, i.e., the amount that the camera's exposure settings have deviated from their initial capture settings. In other embodiments, the Exposure Ratio value is also used to determine regions along the seam where either: alpha blending, Poisson blending—or a combination of the two—should be used to blend in the transitional areas on each side of the seam. |
| US09832370B2 |
Cognitive sensor and method of operating of the same
A cognitive sensor and a method of operating the same. The cognitive sensor includes a sensor unit, which generates electric signals in response to outside stimulations; a signal processing unit, which generates sensed data regarding the outside stimulations by processing electric signals generated by the sensor unit; a cognitive circuit unit, which specifies an area of interest in the sensed data processed by the signal processing unit; and an output unit, which outputs the sensed data generated by the signal processing unit, wherein at least a portion of the sensed data output by the output unit is sensed data regarding the area of interest. |
| US09832367B2 |
Viewing device
An apparatus to capture and display an image of an object includes a frame, at least one optical sensor for capturing the image of the object, means for moving the frame relative to a surface of the object in a first direction, and means for moving the optical sensor relative to the frame in a second direction. |
| US09832366B2 |
Focusing method
A method and system are provided for focusing an imaging device on a liquid sample flowing through a field of view of the imaging device. Objects are segmented in the captured frames and used to account for the fact that the sample is flowing. Object velocities are calculated and used in selecting an appropriate focus value. The calculation of a focus measure takes account of the number of objects in captured frames in order to ensure a consistent calculation of the focus measure. |
| US09832365B2 |
Autofocus based on differential measurements
The present invention relates to the field of digital pathology and in particular to whole slide scanners. A tilted autofocus image sensor images an oblique cross-section of the slide. For focusing multiple sequential overlapping images, which have been taken by the tilted sensor, are compared. The axial position of the tissue layer can be determined from the polar error signal resulting from this differential measurement. |
| US09832363B2 |
Imaging apparatus, control method of imaging apparatus, and non-transitory storage medium storing control program of imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus includes a reading unit, a display unit, and a control unit. The reading unit reads pixel signals from imaging pixels and focus detection pixels. The display unit displays an image. When both exposure/reading of the imaging pixels and the focus detection pixels are achievable within time corresponding to a display frame rate of the display unit, the control unit controls to alternate the exposure/reading of the imaging pixels and the exposure/reading of the focus detection pixels. When both the exposure/reading of imaging pixels and the focus detection pixels are not achievable within the time, the control unit controls to perform the exposure of the imaging pixels and the focus detection pixels at the same time and read the pixel signals of the imaging pixels and the focus detection pixels after the end of the exposure of the imaging pixels and the focus detection pixels. |
| US09832361B2 |
Imaging apparatus capable of accurately focusing an object intended by a user and method of controlling imaging apparatus
An imaging apparatus includes an imaging optical system, an imaging element acquiring an image of an object, a unit that acquires distance information corresponding to distance between the imaging optical system and the object, a unit that generates a map information corresponding to the image based on the distance information, a unit that is able to detect touch operation of a user on a display unit displaying the image and that detects a position in the image corresponding to a position touched by the user, and a control unit configured to acquire the distance information at the position of the acquired image from the map information to set the position as a focus point according to the acquired distance information, or configured to display, on the display unit, an enlarged image obtained by cutting an area of part of the image including the position. |
| US09832360B2 |
Image capturing apparatus and method of controlling the same
An image capturing apparatus comprises an image sensor that includes a pixel array in which a plurality of unit pixels, each having a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements, are arranged in matrix, and a plurality of column output lines respectively provided in columns of the pixel array, and a control unit that performs control such that in a case in which signals from a portion of photoelectric conversion elements of each of the plurality of unit pixels is to be read out, signals from a plurality of unit pixels that are arranged in the same column of the pixel array are output simultaneously to one column output line out of the plurality of column output lines. |
| US09832355B2 |
Image-reading apparatus and image-reading auxiliary apparatus
An image-reading auxiliary apparatus includes a housing that shields a medium from environmental light, an external device holding unit that holds an external device that captures an image of the medium, a light source that illuminates the medium, an illuminance sensor that detects whether the external device is held by the external device holding unit, a housing control unit that controls the light source so as not to emit light when the illuminance sensor detects that the external device is not held by the external device holding unit, and an opening/closing interlocking switch that activates the housing control unit to start to control the light source when the housing is opened from a folded state. |
| US09832353B2 |
Methods for encoding, decoding and interpreting auxiliary data in media signals
The disclosure relates to digital watermarking, steganography, and specifically to message coding protocols used in conjunction with digital watermarking and steganographic encoding/decoding and payload interpretation methods. One claim recites a method for interpreting a data structure having fixed and variable message portions, the method comprising: processing the fixed message portion to determine a version of the variable message portion; decoding the entire payload field of the variable message portion according to the determined version; and interpreting only a portion of the decoded payload field according to the determined version. Of course, other features and claims are provided too. |
| US09832351B1 |
Reduced complexity video filtering using stepped overlapped transforms
Pseudorandom overlapped block processing may be provided. First, a first temporal sequence of video frames corrupted with noise may be received. Next, matched frames may be producing by frame matching video frames of the first temporal sequence according to a first stage of processing. Then the matched frames may be denoised according to a second stage of processing. The second stage of processing may commence responsive to completion of the first stage of processing for all the video frames of the first temporal sequence. The second stage of processing may comprise overlapped block processing. The overlapped block processing may comprise pseudorandom overlapped block processing having no successive pixels both horizontally and vertically that are one-sized in transforms. |
| US09832350B2 |
Image processing apparatus, printing apparatus, image processing method, and printing method
An image processing method includes performing first halftone processing and second halftone processing. The second halftone processing is performed, for a second kind of color in advance among a plurality of colors constituting an original image, in units of blocks each consisting of a plurality of pixels that constitute the original image and the second kind of color is converted into an amount of second kind of ink corresponding to the second kind of color among the plurality of inks. The first halftone processing is performed, for the first kind of color, for each pixel that constitutes the original image or each pixel group having a smaller number of pixels than the block and the first kind of color is converted into an amount of first kind of ink corresponding to the first kind of color among the plurality of inks. |
| US09832348B2 |
Apparatus, program, and method for correcting generated recording data based upon transparency information
A recording data generation apparatus is provided that generates recording data in CMYK form including color information related to CMYK values and color information other than the CMYK values based on image data in RGB form including color information related to RGB values and transparency information related to transparency degree. |
| US09832347B2 |
Crum chip and image forming device for authentication and communication, and methods thereof
A Customer Replaceable Unit Monitoring (CRUM) chip, an image forming apparatus, and a method of authenticating are provided. The apparatus includes a main body that includes a main controller controlling operations of the apparatus, a consumable unit mounted on the main body to communicate with the main controller, and a CRUM chip that is provided in the consumable unit and stores information regarding the consumable unit. The main controller and the CRUM chip transmit and receive signals that include data and integrity detection data between each other. The integrity detection data is generated by using previous integrity detection data. |
| US09832346B2 |
Image forming apparatus, and system and method for supporting preparation of application form
An image forming apparatus includes a user interface, circuitry, and an image forming device. The user interface receives, from an applicant, an instruction for selecting a desired application form having an entry field in which personal information is to be entered, and receives an input of individual authentication information of the applicant. The circuitry unlocks an IC card based upon the individual authentication information of the applicant to acquire personal information of the applicant from the IC card, and generates an application form for output from a template of the selected application form and the personal information acquired from the IC card. The image forming device outputs the generated application form. |
| US09832345B2 |
Information processor, image forming apparatus, terminal apparatus, information processing system and non-transitory computer readable medium for establishing connection between apparatuses
An information processor includes: a responding unit that transmits data including a predetermined password to a terminal apparatus to make a response to an inquiry from the terminal apparatus, without user operation; and a connection establishing unit that performs processing to establish connection in a case where a connection request using the predetermined password transmitted by the responding unit is accepted from the terminal apparatus, the connection request being regarded as a request to establish connection between the information processor and the terminal apparatus. |
| US09832340B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method of performing error notification and error recovery functions in image forming apparatus
A method of performing error notification and error recovery functions in an image forming apparatus includes detecting by one or more sub-processors an error of a main processor for controlling the sub-processors; controlling an interface function of the image forming apparatus if the error is detected; outputting information about the detected error; and recovering the detected error by controlling an operation of the main processor. |
| US09832339B1 |
Image forming system, image forming method and information processing apparatus
An image forming system includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses, a print request receiving portion, a dividing portion, and a print job transmitting portion. The print request receiving portion receives a print request for a print object. The dividing portion, when a total number of pages to be printed is equal to or greater than a preset smallest number of pages, divides the print object into a plurality of page groups. The print job transmitting portion generates a plurality of divided print jobs that respectively correspond to the plurality of page groups divided by the dividing portion, and transmits the plurality of divided print jobs to the plurality of image forming apparatuses, respectively. |
| US09832337B2 |
Image forming apparatus and control method of image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a printing portion, a receiving portion, an image reading portion for reading one surface and another surface connected to the one surface of a material to be housed, so as to generate individual image data of the one surface and the another surface, and a controlling portion configured to recognize a size of the material to be housed based on the individual image data, to generate paper bag image data that is image data of a development of the paper bag in which the entire of the material to be housed can fit, the development being with tabs for sticking for assembly, and to control the printing portion to print the development with tabs for sticking based on the paper bag image data. |
| US09832336B2 |
Image-reading device that reads images by using spread-spectrum clock
In an image-reading device, a counting unit counts a number of clock cycles of a spread-spectrum clock as a counter value. A correcting unit corrects one of the counter value and a reference clock cycle number based on a phase detected by the phase detecting unit when the counting unit counts. A comparing unit compares the counter value and the reference clock cycle number and determines whether the counter value and the reference clock cycle number satisfy a prescribed relationship. A time length setting unit sets a length of at least one of a reading time and an irradiation time based on: a timing when the counting unit starts counting to set the time length; and a timing when the comparing unit determines that the compared values satisfy the prescribed relationship, such that the time length set by the time length setting unit remains constant. |
| US09832331B2 |
Image reading apparatus and image forming apparatus
An image reading apparatus includes first and second image reading units, and first and second transparent guides disposed along a conveyance path and guiding a document passing through a conveyance path. The first and second transparent guides are disposed to oppose to each other across the conveyance path. The image reading apparatus also includes a grounding portion provided on one of the first and second transparent guides and a conductive portion electrically connecting the first and second transparent guides with each other. |
| US09832328B2 |
Character recognition apparatus and character recognition method
In accordance with an embodiment, a character recognition apparatus comprises a decolorization control section configured to carry out a decolorization processing for a sheet; an image reading control section configured to carry out an image reading processing for the sheet to which the decolorization processing is carried out; and a character recognition processing section configured to carry out a character recognition processing for a decolorized image read through the reading processing after the decolorization processing is carried out or for a generated image generated according to the decolorized image. |
| US09832322B1 |
Techniques to transform network resource requests to zero rated network requests
Techniques to transform network resource requests to zero rated network requests are described. Some embodiments are particularly directed to techniques transform network resource requests on a cellular network to zero rating by replacing the destination of the request with a zero-rated source for the network resource. In one embodiment, for example, an apparatus may comprise a data store and a network access component. The data store may be operative to store a plurality of zero-rating rewrite rules. The network access component may be operative to receive a network request from an application component on the mobile device, the network request for access to a network resource; compare the network resource to the plurality of zero-rating rewrite rules to identify a zero-rating rewrite rule matching the network resource; transform the network request to a zero-rated network request for the network resource using the identified zero-rating rewrite rule; and perform the zero-rated network request. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09832321B2 |
Method for collect call service based on voip technology and system thereof
One embodiment of the present invention provides a collect call method and system thereof, more particularly, in order to charge the called party with a uniform toll for collect call, which is determined by only the type and location of called party terminal. In one embodiment, the collect call method, system and a counsel service providing method use a free VoIP network for part of the voice call link and a charge PSTN network for the rest of the voice call link. In one embodiment, if the first link corresponding to the collect call request is established, the collect call switch calls the called party terminal to establish the second link, and billing on the second link is initiated. |
| US09832317B2 |
Methods and apparatus to obtain voice messages
Methods and apparatus to obtain voice messages are disclosed. One example method includes receiving at a mobile device an indication to access voicemail, determining if visual voicemail is available, and initiating a call to a voicemail system in response to determining that visual voicemail is unavailable. |
| US09832315B1 |
Database allocation and analytics for service call centers
A method for routing customer service requests to call centers includes collecting data associated with customer service experience between a customer and a call center regarding a completed customer call. The collected data is analyzed to determine a quality of customer service for one or more completed calls between the customer and the call center. A nature of an incoming customer call is determined. The incoming customer call is routed to a call center based upon making reference to the analyzed collected data such that the nature of the customer call matches with corresponding one or more favorable attributes of the call center. |
| US09832313B1 |
Personalized devices for out-bound and in-bound inmate calling and communication
Systems and techniques are disclosed for establishing inbound calls and outbound calls involving inmates and outside parties. One exemplary technique receives input identifying authorized sources who are authorized to initiate and conduct calls with an inmate and stores a list of the authorized sources. The list, for example, can include telephone numbers, VOIP caller identifiers, and/or call privileges associated with the sources. The technique receives an inbound call directed to the inmate and determines whether the source of the inbound call is authorized or not, for example, by comparing information about the source with information in the list of authorized sources and/or based on the call privileges. If the source is authorized, the call is permitted. If not the technique routes the call to a payment interface for the caller to provide payment information. |
| US09832312B2 |
Audio call screening for hosted voicemail systems
The present invention allows a user to screen messages being left at a hosted voicemail system from a telephone terminal. Incoming calls intended for the telephone terminal are routed to the voicemail system immediately or after attempting to connect incoming call to the telephone terminal. As the caller is leaving a message at the voicemail system, a connection between the incoming call, voicemail system, and telephone terminal is established to allow the user to listen to the message and decide whether to take the call. The user may decide to take the call or let the caller finish leaving the message. In one embodiment, the telephone terminal is equipped to open only the speaker channel for monitoring the message and will provide a fully bi-directional connection if the user takes the call. The supporting switch and telephone terminal communicate with each other to facilitate the monitoring and taking of calls. |
| US09832311B2 |
Method and system for the mass sending of messages
A method and system for sending messages in a telecommunications network, in which digital messages which contain information on the desired reply address are mass sent, and messages, which are sent on the basis of the reply-address information are received. The reply-address information of each mass-sent message is converted to correspond to a predefined dialog, in which the stage of the dialog defines unequivocally the reply-address information, so that the transmission and reception of the messages are implemented in different parts of the telecommunications system. |
| US09832309B2 |
Method and apparatus to detect a stale number
A method and apparatus for detecting a stale number. A stale number detection device obtains a call number, a call number contact creation date, and a call number issue date for the call number. The stale number detection device determines that a stale number state exists when the call number issue date is later than the call number contact creation date. The stale number detection device generates a stale number notification based on the stale number state. |
| US09832308B1 |
Caller preview data and call messages based on caller preview data
Implementations of the present application relate to caller preview data and call messages based on caller preview data. In some implementations, a method includes sending, by a caller device, a call request to one or more callee devices, and establishing a connection to at least one callee device prior to receipt of an acceptance of the call request by the callee device. At least a portion of caller preview data is transmitted to the callee device over the connection prior to the receipt of the call acceptance. In response to determining that the at least a portion of the caller preview data has been transmitted for a particular time period without receipt of the acceptance of the call request, information is transmitted to instruct a call message to be stored on the callee device, where the call message includes at least a part of the caller preview data. |
| US09832306B2 |
Detecting driving with a wearable computing device
A wearable computing device is described that detects an indication of movement associated with the wearable computing device when a user of the wearable computing device detected being located within a moving vehicle. Based at least in part on the indication of movement, a determination is made that the user of the wearable computing device is currently driving the moving vehicle. An operation is performed based on the determination that the user of the wearable computing device is currently driving the moving vehicle. |
| US09832305B2 |
Configure smartphone based on user sleep status
Various systems and methods for configuring a smartphone based on a user's sleep status are described herein. A compute device includes a determination module to determine a physiological state of a person and a configuration module to configure a quiet mode of the compute device based on the physiological state of the person. |
| US09832302B2 |
Communication apparatus
A communication apparatus may perform: receiving a specific signal from a first external apparatus via a second interface; changing a state of a first interface from a first state to a second state, in a case where the specific signal including predetermined information is received via the second interface while the state of the first interface is the first state; maintaining the state of the first interface in the first state, in a case where the specific signal not including the predetermined information is received while the state of the first interface is the first state; and performing a communication of target data with the first external apparatus via the first interface being in the second state, after the state of the first interface has been changed to the second state. |
| US09832299B2 |
Background noise reduction in voice communication
Technologies are generally described for a noise cancellation scheme for voice communications. In some examples, a system configured to cancel background noise in voice communication may include a user device configured to capture a background sound; and a server configured to receive the background sound captured by the user device, identify a source of the background sound from among a plurality of predetermined sound sources, and generate a reference background sound based at least in part on the identified source. |
| US09832288B2 |
Extremely high frequency converter
An extremely high frequency (EHF) protocol converter may include a transducer, an EHF communication circuit, a protocol conversion circuit, and a circuit port. The transducer may be configured to convert between an electromagnetic EHF data signal and an electrical EHF signal. The EHF communication circuit may be configured to convert between a baseband data signal and the electrical EHF signal. The protocol conversion circuit may be adapted to convert between the baseband data signal having data formatted according to a first data protocol associated with a first external device and a second baseband data signal having data formatted according to a second data protocol associated with a second external device. The second data protocol may be different from the first data protocol. The circuit port may conduct the second baseband data signal to the second external device. |
| US09832286B2 |
Asynchronous ubiquitous protocol
Disclosed is a method for managing one or more transmission routes for a remote unit in a communication network, the remote unit maintaining a list of hop destinations, the method comprising: receiving a poll request; in response to receiving the poll request, transmitting a poll message to a first hop destination; listening for a transmission of the poll message from the first hop destination to determine whether the first hop destination transmitted the poll message; and, updating the list of hop destinations based on whether the first hop destination transmitted the poll message. |
| US09832280B2 |
User profile configuring method and device
A personal construction method and device are provided, the method includes: obtaining log information of a user; filtering the log information to obtain a key field of the log information; extracting a tag identifier of the key field; obtaining tag information based on the tag identifier and the key field, wherein the tag information comprises the number of times the tag identifier appears within a first predetermined time period; determining a category of interest corresponding to the identifier information based on the tag identifier; and obtaining a user interest degree corresponding to the category of interest based on the tag information. |
| US09832278B2 |
Utility-based invalidation propagation scheme selection for distributed cache consistency
A computerized method for dynamic consistency management of server side cache management units in a distributed cache, comprising: updating a server side cache management unit by a client; assigning each of a plurality of server side cache management units to one of a plurality of propagation topology groups according to an analysis of a plurality of cache usage measurements thereof, each of said propagation topology groups is associated with a different write request propagation scheme; and managing client update notifications of members of each of said propagation topology groups according to the respective said different write request propagation scheme which is associated therewith. |
| US09832277B2 |
Systems and methods for adaptive partitioning in distributed cache memories
Methods and systems for performing adaptive partitioning of a distributed cache partitioned in cache slices are provided. The slices of the distributed cache are assigned to different computer nodes of the cluster based on a routing table. After a pre-determined period of time, the cache slices can be re-assigned to other computer nodes of the cluster based on access statistics and a new routing table is provided that corresponds to the re-assignment of the cache slices to the computer nodes of the cluster. |
| US09832269B2 |
Methods for migrating data between heterogeneous storage platforms and devices thereof
A method, non-transitory computer readable medium, and storage controller computing device that establishes an application interface and a source interface to a programmable switch. A flow table of the programmable switch is updated to insert routing actions associated with the application and source interfaces. Next, when an application request received from an application is locally serviceable is determined. When the determination indicates the application request is not locally serviceable, a migration request for data associated with the application request is sent to the programmable switch from the source interface and a destination address of a source storage server is used. Additionally, a migration response to the migration request including the data from the source storage server is received from the source interface. The data is then stored locally in a destination storage server and thereby is migrated from the source storage server. |
| US09832268B2 |
System, method, and medium for managing priority in requests to in-memory data grid (IMDG)
An in-memory data grid (IMDG) server includes an i/o interface for transmitting and receiving data over a network. A random access memory (RAM) is configured with the IMDG which stores plural different data sets that may be requested for retrieval by applications that can connect to the IMDG server through the network. A processor receives requests for retrieval of data from the IMDG data sets, and sends the requested data to the requesting application. The IMDG server also includes a request prioritizer that determines, when two or more applications, which are competing applications that defined as having requests co-pending at the IMDG server to retrieve one or more of the data sets, which of the competing applications has the highest priority relative to the other competing applications. The request prioritizer causes a data set requested by the application with the highest priority to be handled before requests from the applications. |
| US09832267B2 |
Resource arbitration for shared-write access via persistent reservation
Described is a technology by which an owner node in a server cluster maintains ownership of a storage mechanism through a persistent reservation mechanism, while allowing non-owning nodes read and write access to the storage mechanism. An owner node writes a reservation key to a registration table associated with the storage mechanism. Non-owning nodes write a shared key that gives them read and write access. The owner node validates the shared keys against cluster membership data, and preempts (e.g., removes) any key deemed not valid. The owner node also defends ownership against challenges to ownership made by other nodes, so that another node can take over ownership if a (formerly) owning node is unable to defend, e.g., because of a failure. |
| US09832257B2 |
Service acquisition techniques for wireless communications systems
Improved service acquisition techniques for wireless communications systems are described. In one embodiment, for example, an apparatus may comprise a processor circuit, a service acquisition application for execution by the processor circuit to select multiple services for attempted acquisition, and a service management module for execution by the processor circuit to attempt to acquire the multiple services according to a connection mode, the service management module to attempt to acquire the multiple services concurrently when the connection mode comprises a concurrent connection mode. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09832255B2 |
Event distribution method, control device, and processor on software-defined network
An event distribution method, a control device, and a processor on a software-defined network (SDN), where an event distribution module processes, in a preset order using a first workflow that includes at least two event processing nodes, an event that is generated by a device object generating module, and sends a processed event to a first application program processing module using a first application event processing node. The first workflow is created according to an instruction of the first application program processing module, so that the event that is sent to the first application program processing module can be processed according to the instruction of the first application program processing module. Therefore, the event that is sent to the application program processing module does not need to meet a predetermined requirement. |
| US09832254B2 |
Receiver network component for operation in a communication network, communication network and method for operating a communication network
A receiver network component operates in a communication network of an automation system. The component receives data messages sent redundantly by transmitter network components of the communication network and rejects duplicates of an already received data message. Interoperability of network components from different manufacturers is ensured even for device-redundant transmitter network components and redundant transmission of data messages is achieve with comparatively low complexity. The receiver network component is prompted by reception of a current data message from one of the transmitter network devices to check whether a data message with identical useful data has already been received from another transmitter network component. The data message is processed if it is received for the first time and it is rejected as a duplicate if it is a data message with such useful data that have already been received in an earlier data message from another transmitter network component. |
| US09832253B2 |
Content pre-render and pre-fetch techniques
Content pre-render and pre-fetch techniques are described. In one or more implementations, a likelihood is predicted of subsequent navigation to content associated with a network address based at least in part on monitored navigation performed by a computing device to one or more network addresses. A determination is then made whether to cause the computing device to pre-fetch and pre-render the content based at least in part on the prediction. |
| US09832252B2 |
Systems, methods, and computer program products for third party authentication in communication services
A method includes receiving a request from a first user at a first device to set up a communication session with a second user at a second device, in response to the request, directing the first device to authenticate the first user with a third party authentication service, receiving an authentication result corresponding to the first user, verifying the authentication result using information from the third party authentication service, and in response to verifying the authentication result, establishing the communication session on behalf of the first user. |
| US09832251B2 |
System and method for content streaming in a network environment
Streaming content with an electronic device includes incrementally downloading content data at a first quality level from a content server over a network. Triggered by receipt of a notification indicative of predicted network congestion, the electronic device requests and downloads a next increment of the content data at a second quality level lower than the first quality level from the content server. |
| US09832249B2 |
Systems and methods for streaming media content
Disclosed are various embodiments for facilitating streaming of media content. Video content is retrieved over a network from one or more client devices capturing video content. Data items associated with the plurality of video content are also retrieved. A list order for the plurality of video content is determined according to at least a portion of the retrieved data items, and a user interface is encoded for display where the user interface contains a plurality of items corresponding to the plurality of video content, the items being positioned within the user interface according to the list order. |
| US09832248B2 |
Device and method for switching from a first data stream to a second data stream
A device receives first and second data streams representing an audio and/or video content. The device is configured beforehand so as to disseminate the content from the first stream. Following a command for switching from the first stream to the second stream, the device determines by correlation a reference point in the first stream and in the second stream, and determines an offset in time from time-stamping information associated with the reference point in each of the first and second streams. Before switching, the device: pauses the second stream until the offset in time is absorbed when the offset in time indicates that the first stream is late; decreases a frame rate of the first stream until the offset in time is absorbed when the offset in time indicates that the first stream is in advance. |
| US09832246B2 |
Personal content server apparatus and methods
Personal content server apparatus and associated methods that allow a user (e.g., cable or satellite network subscriber) to access content, such as a video program, from a location outside the subscriber's network. In one embodiment, a personal content server streams the content to the subscriber over a network connection from the local e.g., (subscription) network to a remote network upon authorization by a content manager process. Various access, business or operational rules are applied depending on the content and delivery mode; e.g., to live video broadcast, video-on-demand (VOD), or archived content from the subscriber's digital video recorder (DVR) or networked PVR. Secondary content (e.g., promotions, advertisements, etc.) can also be selectively replaced if desired in order to make the remotely delivered content more appropriate to the remote user's context. |
| US09832244B2 |
Dynamic quality adjustment based on changing streaming constraints
A method and apparatus for dynamic quality adjustment of digital media based on changing streaming constraints is provided. A digital media server sends a digital media stream according to a set of streaming constraints to a requesting client. Audio and visual information may be sent to a requesting client together in a single stream, or separately in multiple streams. A client sends a request over a control network to the digital media server indicating information of a particular type is no longer desired. In response to receiving the signal, the video server ceases transmission of that particular type of information to the signaling client, thus relaxing streaming constraints. As a result of the techniques described herein, an improved quality digital presentation is available for the client and, consequently, when a viewer signals that a particular type of information is not desired, that particular type of information is not transmitted to the client, which thereby reduces the streaming constraints on a video streaming service, and improved quality digital media information may be sent to any client using the freed-up portion of the bandwidth previously allocated to the signaling client. |
| US09832240B2 |
Managing access to a conference call
Managing access to a conference call includes obtaining, via a calendar application, a list of participants, the list of participants includes a number of participants to be included in a conference call, identifying, from the list of participants, a first portion of the participants that have personal passcodes, generating guest passcodes for a second portion of the participants associated with the list of participants that do not have the personal passcodes, and permitting, based on the personal passcodes or the guest passcodes, each of the participants to participate in the conference call. |
| US09832237B2 |
Collaborative online document editing
A technique for facilitating online collaboration among users of client machines allows multiple users to work together and concurrently on a set of documents. In response to a request from a user, a server opens a document in a software application running on the server and virtualizes the software application to the client machines. Multiple users can then operate the software application from the respective client machines to edit the document via remote control. The server multiplexes pointer input from the client machines to provide pointer input to the software application from one user at a time. Multiplexing of pointer input takes place seamlessly and automatically in response to user activity with respect to the virtualized software application. |
| US09832236B2 |
Collaborative session control transfer and inter-device transfer in internet protocol multimedia subsystem
An Internet Protocol (IP) multimedia subsystem (IMS) network node receives a first collaborative session control signaling from a first wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU) for an existing IMS collaborative session between at least the first WTRU and a second WTRU. The first WTRU is the initial controller of the session. The IMS network node detects that the first collaborative session control signaling from the first WTRU is degraded, and responsively initiates transfer of control of the session to the second WTRU at least in part by: transmitting an IMS-network-node-initiated collaborative session control transfer request to the second WTRU, receiving an acceptance from the second WTRU, and receiving a second collaborative session control signaling for the session from the second WTRU. The session is maintained, at least in part, through the IMS network node both before and after the second WTRU becomes the new controller. |
| US09832235B2 |
Method and apparatus for extending the use of an IMS oriented handling of telecommunications services
A method for extending IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS)-oriented handling of telecommunications services within a telecommunications network for a subscriber using circuit switched (CS) connectivity, wherein an identification information of the subscriber is natively lacking an IMS identity and/or IMS profile within the telecommunications network, includes: generating, at least temporarily, by an identity management functionality of the telecommunications network, an IMS identity and/or IMS profile with respect to the subscriber. |
| US09832228B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer program products for managing firewall change requests in a communication network
A method of managing firewall change requests for a communication network includes providing a change request interface comprising a plurality of change request form types, each request form including an interface for entering requestor identification information, Internet Protocol (IP) address information, change implementation schedule information, and submission information specifying any requestor instructions for implementing the change, receiving completed change request forms from at least one requestor, arranging the completed change request forms in a request queue, and presenting the request queue to at least one administrator responsible for implementing firewall changes in the communication network. |
| US09832227B2 |
System and method for network level protection against malicious software
A method in one example implementation includes receiving information related to a network access attempt on a first computing device with the information identifying a software program file associated with the network access attempt. The method also includes evaluating a first criterion to determine whether network traffic associated with the software program file is permitted and then creating a restriction rule to block the network traffic if the network traffic is not permitted. The first criterion includes a trust status of the software program file. In specific embodiments, the method includes pushing the restriction rule to a network protection device that intercepts the network traffic associated with the software program file and applies the restriction rule to the network traffic. In more specific embodiments, the method includes searching a whitelist identifying trustworthy software program files to determine the trust status of the software program file. |
| US09832226B2 |
Automatic curation and modification of virtualized computer programs
In an embodiment, a data processing method comprises receiving a first instance of computer program data at a security unit having one or more processors; executing the first instance of the computer program data in a monitored environment; observing and recording identification information for each of a plurality of functions called by the first instance of the computer program data; sending the identification information to one or more security enforcement endpoints over a computer network; and generating one or more instructions describing security protections to implement for function calls not included in the identification information in a second instance of the computer program data, and sending the instructions to one or more security enforcement endpoints over a computer network. |
| US09832225B2 |
Identity theft countermeasures
In some embodiments, techniques for computer security comprise preventing and/or mitigating identity theft such as phishing. |
| US09832223B2 |
Technologies for protecting systems and data to prevent cyber-attacks
Technologies for protecting systems and data of an organization from malware include a data integrity server configured to receive a data file for import from an external source. The data integrity server analyzes the received data file with multiple anti-malware engines to determine whether the data file includes hidden malware. The data integrity server discards the data file in response to a determination that the data file includes hidden malware. Additionally, the data integrity server verifies the type of the received data file based on the file extension associated with the received data file. The data integrity server cleans the received data file in response to verification of the file type. The cleaned data file is transmitted to a computing device to be imported. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09832222B2 |
Anti-malware mobile content data management apparatus and method
There is provided an anti-malware mobile content data management apparatus, for use in managing content data within an input electronic file containing content data to be sent over a wireless network including at least one mobile device being served by the wireless network, at least one tokenizer to tokenize the content data contained within the input electronic file into a tagged generic representation of the content data, a content management engine to apply a predetermined content management policy to the tagged generic representation of the content data to form content-managed tagged generic content data and a validator to create validated content-managed content data by being arranged to ensure the content-managed content data represented in the content-managed tagged generic representation conforms to any predefined limits and rules applied to each form of content data appearing in the content data of the input electronic file, wherein an output of the validator is operably coupled to the wireless network, and arranged to provide a substitute output electronic file derived from the validated content-managed content data. There is also provided an anti-malware mobile content data management method, wireless network and mobile device. |
| US09832207B2 |
Input verification
In an example, a computing device may an input verification engine (IVE) that provides input verification services within a trusted execution environment (TEE), including a memory enclave. Taking a Java-based Android application as an example, the IVE securely verifies and validates user inputs for sensitive computing applications, without exposing the inputs to external applications. The IVE may be implemented in native C/C++ or similar, or may provide instructions to dynamically provision an enclave and import a minimal Java Virtual Machine (JVM) into the enclave so that the IVE can run in Java. The IVE may also contain binary analysis tools to analyze an input binary to identify and tag portions that receive user input, so that in a binary translation, those portions can be run within the enclave. |
| US09832197B2 |
Generating link information to access a file stored in a storage area associated with user identification information
An information processing apparatus includes a memory that includes a first storage area and a second storage area and a processor that generates link information to access the file stored in the first storage area, in the second storage area associated with the user identification information associated with the first storage area, requests a notification server that transmits a notification, with identification information that identifies a communication apparatus that corresponds to the user identification information associated with the first storage area, and transfers, in response to a request from the communication apparatus that receives the notification, the link information stored in the second storage area associated with the user identification information corresponding to the communication apparatus and that further transfers, in response to access of the file by the communication apparatus using the link information, the file obtained from the first area to the communication apparatus. |
| US09832194B2 |
Generating and using ephemeral identifiers and message integrity codes
Systems and methods for generating and using ephemeral identifiers are provided. One example method includes determining, by one or more computing devices, a current time-count. The method includes determining, by the one or more computing devices, a time-modified identifier based at least in part on a static identifier and the current time-count. The method includes determining, by the one or more computing devices, an ephemeral identifier based at least in part on the time-modified identifier and a rotation key. One example system includes a plurality of beacon devices, at least one observing entity, and at least one verifying entity. |
| US09832187B2 |
Managing display of private information
In one example, a method includes receiving a first indication of an incoming communication and determining that the incoming communication includes private information. The method may also include outputting, for display at a wearable computing device, a second indication of the incoming communication, wherein the indication includes non-private information. The method may also include determining, based on motion data generated by the wearable computing device, that a user of the wearable computing device is likely viewing the wearable computing device. The method may also include outputting, for display at the wearable computing device, an indication of the private information. |
| US09832185B2 |
Request-specific authentication for accessing web service resources
Requests for access to Web service resources are evaluated based on the type of request that is received. Requests are not granted unless sufficient proof of authentication is provided to grant that request. An authentication service evaluates one or more factors to determine whether or not to authenticate the client. After being authenticated by the authentication service, proof of authentication is provided to the Web service, which grants access to the Web service resource. |
| US09832184B2 |
Controls and administration of privileged accounts system
Apparatus and methods for enhancing group access accountability are provided. The method may include receiving a request from a user to access a system and user-identifying information associated with the user. The method may also include querying a database to retrieve a group ID number associated with at least a portion of the user-identifying information and access permissions associated with the group ID number. The method may further include querying a database to retrieve a user ID and password associated with the group ID number. The user ID and password may be selected from a group of usernames and passwords associated with the group ID number. The method may additionally include flagging the user ID and password with a flag, the flag indicating that the user ID and password are in use, and transmitting the user ID and password to the user. |
| US09832182B2 |
Method for securing an electronic document
The object of this invention is a method for securing an electronic document. In particular, this invention relates to a method that prevents the forging of documents in which an electronic chip is incorporated. To that end, the invention proposes a method in which the data on the document medium are associated with a fingerprint of the document, so as to make them inseparable. That fingerprint is determined on the basis of measurable physical units of the electronic chip or the medium. Thus, the invention allows the combination of the physical protection of the document and the protection of the chip so as to reinforce the security of said documents. |
| US09832180B2 |
Authentication system and method for operating an authentication system
An authentication system for authenticating a human requester requesting a service, wherein the authentication system is configured to establish via a first and a second port of the authentication system an authentication communication channel comprising a first communication channel to the requester and a second communication channel to a human authenticator, such that at least one of an audio stream of a voice of the requester, a video stream of a face of the requester and a 3D-data stream of the face of the requester is transmittable between the end node device of the requester and the end node device of the authenticator; and to record a confirmation message of the authenticator, wherein the confirmation message confirms or rejects at least one of the claimed identity and the requested service. |
| US09832179B2 |
Stateless server-based encryption associated with a distribution list
An example method of decrypting electronic messages includes receiving, by an authentication module of a decryptor device, authentication requests from a plurality of destination clients. The method also includes receiving, by a decryption module of the decryptor device, encrypted electronic messages from the plurality of destination clients. The encrypted electronic messages are derived from a common electronic message sent by a common source client. The method further includes authenticating, based on an authentication table, the plurality of destination clients. The authentication table stores user credentials that are used to authenticate destination clients. The method also includes for each encrypted electronic message received from an authenticated destination client of the plurality of destination clients, decrypting the encrypted electronic message using a common private key and providing the decrypted electronic message to the authenticated destination client. The private key is stored at the decryptor device. |
| US09832174B2 |
Authentication for cluster peering
A method and system for authenticating of the pairing of computing devices is described. In an example, a passphrase is established on computing devices. The pairing between two devices is initiated by a first device by communicating independently generated data, wherein the generated data is used along with the passphrase on each of the devices to derive a common pairing key. The pairing is authenticated by using at least a first portion of the common pairing key through a key exchange protocol. Further, a shared secret code is derived using a second portion of the common pairing key and stored to be used indirectly to secure future communication between the paired devices. |
| US09832170B2 |
Application acceleration as a service system and method
Disclosed are systems and methods to provide application acceleration as a service. In one embodiment, a system includes a head office to serve an enterprise application comprised of a collaborative document. The system also includes a branch office to request the collaborative document from the head office. The enterprise application may also include a computed document and/or a static document. In addition, the system also includes a set of Point of Presence (POP) locations between the head office and the branch office to communicate the collaborative document, the computed document and the static document on behalf of the head office from a closest POP location to the head office to a closest POP location to the branch office and then onward to the branch office. |
| US09832167B2 |
Method for configuring internet protocal address of small cell
A method for configuring an Internet protocol (IP) address of a small cell includes determining whether the small cell has received authorization from a core network of a mobile operator, determining whether the core network has priority over a local network to connect to the small cell, obtaining a local IP address from a dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) function implemented in the small cell or in an access point of the local network of the small cell, and using a core network IP address assigned to the small cell by the core network when the core network has priority over the local network. The small cell determines whether the core network IP address is the same as the local IP address. When the core network IP address is the same as the local IP address, the local IP address of the small cell is changed. |
| US09832166B1 |
Optical communication system to automatically configure remote optical nodes
An optical communication system to automatically configure remote optical nodes. The optical communication system comprising a core router configured to transmit a control optical signal at a control transmit wavelength. The optical communication system further comprising one or more remote optical nodes configured to receive the control optical signal at the control transmit wavelength and to transmit an attach request at the control transmit wavelength to the core router. The core router is further configured to receive the attach request and to assign an Internet Protocol (IP) address, a data transmit wavelength, and a mode to the remote optical nodes. The remote optical node are further configured to tune to the assigned data transmit wavelength and operate in the assigned mode. |
| US09832163B1 |
Data processing systems and methods for electronically processing social media content
Data processing systems and methods for processing social media content include a social media module having access to multiple social media platforms associated with a user. The social media module receives media content preferences from the user and retrieves social media content according to those preferences. The social media module provides social media posts corresponding to the retrieved content and schedules the social media posts for distribution over a determined time period. The social media module posts the social media posts across multiple social media platforms according to the schedule over the determined time period. |
| US09832161B2 |
System and method for social awareness textiles
A method, computer program product, and computer system for identifying attribute information of at least a first wearable associated with an outfit of a user. Information about an event may be received. An electronic message may be sent about whether at least a portion of the outfit is recommended for wearing at the event based upon, at least in part, the attribute information of at least the first wearable and the information about the event. |
| US09832159B1 |
System and method for a skill exchange platform using social computing
Exemplary embodiments may provide a skill exchange platform to improve collaboration and skill unitization throughout an entity. The skill exchange platform may provide participants an application or widget that enables them to both submit and receive “Asks” from other users based on their expertise. As a part of the system, points may be used as a unifying currency. Participants can volunteer or utilize incentives enabled by a gaming infrastructure and point system. Points may be accumulated by participants by responding to Asks. These points may then be used for a variety of benefits. Embodiments may include a skill exchange game. The goal of the game may be earn points towards corporate rewards as well as recognition through responding to Asks. The game may have a set of rules as well as different modes. |
| US09832157B2 |
Method and system for presenting event notifications in a social media environment
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method and system for providing notification of events. Specifically, embodiments disclosed herein describe a method and system for generating dynamic messages based on events and transmitting the dynamic messages to various users over a social networking platform. Embodiments include receiving product data and comparing the product data to a set of predefined trigger parameters. If it is determined that the product data satisfies one or more of the trigger parameters, a dynamic message is generated. In certain embodiments, the content of the dynamic message is based, at least in part, on the product data. The generated dynamic message is then automatically transmitted to a set of recipients over the social networking platform. |
| US09832155B2 |
Methods and apparatus to monitor impressions of social media messages
Methods and apparatus are disclosed to monitor impressions of social media messages. An example method includes receiving at a server a request for media, the request addressed to a uniform resource locator, the request corresponding to a social media message to be presented with the media, and the request including a user identifier. The method also includes crediting the social media message with an impression based on the request being addressed to the uniform resource locator. The method also includes identifying that the impression corresponds to an original intended recipient of the social media message based on the user identifier matching a second user identifier stored in a list of subscribers that subscribe to receive messages from an original sender of the social media message. |
| US09832148B2 |
System and method for attaching a remotely stored attachment to an email
An electronic mail message sent from a sender device is received by an email server. The electronic mail message includes an attachment holder block including an authentication token and an address of an attachment stored at a remote server. The authentication token is transmitted to the remote server to login to the remote server to access the attachment. The attachment is retrieved from the remote server using the address of the attachment. The attachment is attached to the electronic mail message by replacing the attachment holder block with the attachment. The electronic mail message including the attachment is transmitted to a recipient. |
| US09832147B2 |
Email sending and receiving method and terminal
Disclosed are an email sending and receiving method and a terminal. The sending method comprises: submitting an email text, and packaging, by coding, the email text and a storing ID of an enclosure uploaded in advance; determining whether an email receiver is a local domain account, and if yes, storing the email into a storage server; otherwise, obtaining the enclosure from the storage server according to the storing ID of the enclosure, recoding the enclosure and the email text into an email and then sending the email to an out-of-band server. |
| US09832133B2 |
Network node for controlling transport of data in a wireless communication network
A first network node, for supporting transport of data in a wireless communication network. One or more first data transmission connections, for first data flows, are established between the first network node and one or more service providing entities. One or more second data transmission connections, for second data flows associated with the first data flows, are established between the first network node and one or more wireless terminals via a target node. The first network node obtains a buffer measure that is indicative of a buffering degree at the target node for a first group of the second data flows. The first network node controls, based on the obtained buffer measure, a transmission pace between the first network node and the target node for a second group of the second data flows. |
| US09832126B1 |
Reduction in network congestion
A system, method and non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising instructions that when read by a processor perform receiving a list including a plurality of possible recipients of telephony network connections, the recipients identified by a telephony number, determining a status characteristic of the intended recipient based on the addressing information, based on the status characteristic, determining whether the intended recipient would successfully receive a telephony connection request if the telephony connection request was forwarded to the intended recipient, and indicating the determination of whether the intended recipient would successfully receive the telephony connection request on the list. |
| US09832122B2 |
System and method for identification of large-data flows
Apparatus, systems and methods may be used to monitor data flows and to select and track particularly large data flows. A method of tracking data flows and identifying large-data (“elephant”) flows comprises extracting fields from a packet of data to construct a flow key, computing a hash value on the flow key to provide a hashed flow signature, entering and/or comparing the hashed flow signature with entries in a flow hash table. Each hash table entry includes a byte count for a respective flow. When the byte count for a flow exceeds a threshold value, the flow is added to a large-data flow (“elephant”) table and the flow is then tracked in the large-data flow table. |
| US09832120B2 |
Packet routing apparatus, interface circuit and packet routing method
A packet routing apparatus includes a plurality of interface units each includes, a first memory in which a plurality of routing information used in a routing of a packet are stored, a second memory in which the plurality of routing information are stored, the number of the routing information stored in the second memory being smaller than the number of the routing information stored in the first memory, and a retrieval unit configured to detect a packet length of the packet received at any of the plurality of ports, perform the routing based on the plurality of routing information stored in the second memory when the detected packet length is less than a predetermined value, and perform the routing based on the plurality of routing information stored in the first memory when the detected packet length is greater than or equal to the predetermined value. |
| US09832118B1 |
Linking resource instances to virtual networks in provider network environments
Methods and apparatus that allow clients to connect resource instances to virtual networks in provider network environments via private IP. Via private IP linking methods and apparatus, a client of a provider network can establish private IP communications between the client's resource instances on the provider network and the client's resource instances provisioned in the client's virtual network via links from the private IP address space of the virtual network to the private IP address space of the provider network. The provider network client resource instances remain part of the client's provider network implementation and may thus also communicate with other resource instances on the provider network and/or with entities on external networks via public IP while communicating with the virtual network resource instances via private IP. |
| US09832115B2 |
Label-switched packets with device-independent labels
In one embodiment, a device-independent label is associated with multiple network devices such that the packet switching devices in a network will forward a packet based on the device-independent label to one of these multiple network devices. In one embodiment, these device-independent labels include, but are not limited to, domain-identifying labels and forwarding-punt labels. In one embodiment, a domain-identifying label is defined as a label that identifies a plurality of network nodes without identifying a single particular network node, single particular interface, nor single particular link. In one embodiment, a first-domain forwarding-punt label is placed at the top of the label stack to identify to forward the label-switched packet to any one of a plurality of designated forwarding nodes corresponding to the first-domain forwarding-punt label (e.g., for sending to a packet switching device which will have forwarding information for the second domain-identifying label). |
| US09832111B2 |
OFS in-band communication method and OFS
An OFS in-band communication method and an OFS are disclosed. The method includes: receiving an LLDP data packet; creating a controller list entry or updating a controller list entry when it is determined, by using a role sub-field, that a sender type of the received LLDP data packet is OFC; acquiring a first-time TCP handshake packet used for establishing a TCP connection, and checking, according to a destination MAC and a destination IP that are carried in the TCP handshake packet, whether a corresponding controller list entry exists in a controller list; and if yes, updating a flow entry according to the MAC, the IP, and the in_port in the corresponding controller list entry in the controller list, so that an OFS can forward, by using a flow table, a packet to be sent to an OFC to the OFC. |
| US09832110B2 |
Identifying, translating and filtering shared risk groups in communications networks
A method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium are disclosed for processing shared risk group (SRG) information in communications networks. The method includes processing, at a first network layer, first network information comprising a plurality of SRG identifiers. The processing includes producing second network information comprising a smaller number of SRG identifiers than that of the plurality of SRG identifiers. The method further includes sending at least a portion of the second network information to the second network layer. The apparatus includes a network interface adapted to send network information comprising SRG information, a processor coupled to the network interface, and a memory coupled to the processor and adapted to store program instructions operable when executed to carry out steps of the method. The storage medium is configured to store program instructions that when executed are configured to cause a processor to carry out steps of the method. |
| US09832103B2 |
Method and apparatus for secure communication via multiple communication paths
A method for sending and receiving a data through multiple communication paths and an apparatus for receiving a data through multiple communication paths. A method for receiving a data through multiple communication paths by an apparatus for receiving a data includes receiving at least t (here, 0 |
| US09832102B2 |
Automatic establishment of redundant paths with cautious restoration in a packet network
A method is implemented by a network device executing a local computation engine and a link state routing protocol. The local computation engine and the link state protocol support automatic establishment of redundant paths and cautious restoration in a packet network. The method includes receiving an explicit path (EP) type length value (TLV) via a link state routing protocol, executing a shortest path algorithm to obtain a shortest path for loose hops of a path identified by the EP TLV, the shortest path to be a primary path, updating a network graph to prune links of the primary path or bias links of the primary path, and calculating a backup path using the shortest path algorithm on the updated network graph. |
| US09832101B2 |
Method and apparatus for negotiating “keep-alive” message frequencies of applications running on a mobile station
A method and apparatus are described for negotiating “keep-alive” message frequencies of applications running on a wireless transmit/receive unit (WTRU). A node may include a negotiation and synchronization function (NSF) configured to collect information including frequencies of keep-alive messages required by application servers for different applications running on the WTRU, and send a keep-alive message frequency negotiation request message to the application servers to negotiate for a more proper frequency for each application on behalf of the WTRU. The node may further include a buffering and caching function (BCF) configured to cache and buffer application specific attributes including an indication of whether each of the applications needs to send periodic keep-alive messages to an associated application server. The node may be a packet data network gateway, a negotiation and caching gateway, or a serving gateway. |
| US09832097B2 |
Method and apparatus for MPLS label allocation for a BGP MAC-VPN
The invention includes a method and apparatus for distributing flooding labels within a Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) infrastructure supporting Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) Media Access Control (MAC) Virtual Private Networking (VPN). |
| US09832089B2 |
Detecting leakage of OFDM signals from an HFC network
Detecting a leak of an OFDM signal from an HFC network, where the HFC network extends over a network area. The OFDM signal includes a first continuous pilot subcarrier having a first harmonic. The first harmonic is defined by a pre-determined first frequency. The method or apparatus comprises the steps of or means for: (a) moving a leakage detector through the network area; (b) tuning the leakage detector to receive the first harmonic of the OFDM signal, based on the pre-determined first frequency of the first harmonic; (c) with the leakage detector, receiving over-the-air, at a received first frequency, the first harmonic of the OFDM signal leaked from the HFC network; and (d) with the leakage detector, detecting the first harmonic received in step (c), whereby the leak of the OFDM signal is detected based on the detection of the first harmonic. |
| US09832087B2 |
Enterprise integration with cloud-based multimedia system
Techniques are described herein for facilitating a connection between a cloud networking platform and a unified communication system, where the cloud networking platform hosts communication services including real-time communications for client devices, and the unified communication system hosts communication services including real-time communications for on-prem devices that are associated with the unified communication system. Events associated with the cloud networking platform are monitored at the unified communication system, via a cloud connector device of the unified communication system, where events are associated with users who are registered with client devices and on-prem devices, and the events include real-time communications. A notification is provided to one or more client devices registered to a first user in response to an on-prem device also registered to the first user receiving a real-time communication request from a device of another user. |
| US09832085B1 |
System for estimating unknown attributes of interest in the under-determined inverse problem and a process of accomplishing the same
A method for solving an under-determined inverse problem or network inference/tomography problem in per-flow size, delay, loss and throughput inference in a computer network, through a system is presented. The method includes the following steps, which are not necessarily in order. First, establishing the computer network having a plurality of nodes wherein the per-flow size, the delay, the loss and the throughput inference are unknown. An original observation or routing matrix determines how flows are appeared on the links and construct the measurements. Next, performing a learning phase to obtain an optimal observation matrix or pseudo-optimal observation matrix. After that, performing a computer controller adaptive measurement and inference phase to estimate the set of unknowns using the measurement quantities, and a function of one of the set consisting of: the optimal observation matrix, the original observation matrix, or both. |
| US09832075B2 |
Terminal management method and apparatus
In terminal management method, a server sends operation information for performing a management operation on a target terminal to a gateway. The operation information carries a return format of an execution result of an operation command for performing the management operation on the target terminal. After receiving an operation command execution result sent by the target terminal, of the operation command and if there is an indication of a return format for the operation command execution result, the gateway processes the operation command execution result according to the indicated return format of the operation command execution result to obtain an operation command execution result conforming to the return format. The operation command execution result conforming to the return format is sent to the server. |
| US09832073B2 |
Analyzing network configuration complexity
Techniques are provided for generating a network complexity score. In one approach, a plurality of node configurations that includes a first node configuration and a second node configuration are analyzed. A network complexity score is generated for a network based, at least in part, on one or more of (a) a degree of similarity between the first node configuration and the second node configuration or (b) a dependency between the first node configuration and the second node configuration. |
| US09832065B2 |
Apparatus and method for soft-decision demodulating in non-square quadrature amplitude modulation
Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for soft-decision demodulating in non-square quadrature amplitude modulation. The apparatus includes: a signal receiving unit receiving a quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) modulated signal at an m modulation degree at a transmitting side; a soft-decision bit calculating unit determining a soft-decision bit value by calculating log likelihood ratios (LLRs) for m bits of the received QAM modulated signal; and a signal decoding unit restoring the received QAM modulated signal based on the determined soft-decision bit value, in which the soft-decision bit calculating unit defines a log likelihood ratio calculation equation by approximating soft-decision boundary points of constellation points for m bits of non-square QAM having odd bits, respectively. |
| US09832058B2 |
Apparatus and method for scrambling control field information for wireless communications
In wireless communications, a high-efficiency (HE) physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU) includes an HE signal-B (SIG-B) field. In order to prevent undesirably large peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR) transmissions caused by repeated information in the HE SIG-B field, the HE SIG-B field may be scrambled. Scrambling of the HE SIG-B field may include scrambling of modulated data tones of each of one or more HE SIG-B field channels of the HE SIG-B field. This scrambling may include applying a phase rotation to the modulated data tones within each of the one or more HE SIG-B field channels. This scrambling (or phase rotation) is performed in addition to a phase rotation applied to each entire HE SIG-B field channel that is commonly referred to as a gamma rotation. |
| US09832056B2 |
Apparatus for transmitting broadcast signals, apparatus for receiving broadcast signals, method for transmitting broadcast signals and method for receiving broadcast signals
A method and an apparatus for transmitting broadcast signals thereof are disclosed. The apparatus for transmitting broadcast signals comprises an encoder for encoding service data corresponding to each of a plurality of data transmission units, an encoder for encoding physical signaling data by a shortening scheme and a puncturing scheme, a mapper for mapping the encoded service data onto constellations, a frame builder for building at least one signal frame including preamble data, a modulator for modulating the at least one signal frame by an OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplex) scheme, a transmitter for transmitting the broadcast signals carrying the at least one modulated signal frame. |
| US09832053B2 |
Method and apparatus for reconstructing desired signal in case of using full duplex radio (FDR) scheme
The apparatus for reconstructing a desired signal using a full duplex radio (FDR) scheme includes: a digital self-interference cancellation unit configured to output a first digital signal; a demodulator configured to demodulate the first digital signal; a modulator configured to modulate the demodulated first digital signal; an attenuator configured to attenuate the modulated first digital signal by applying an attenuation coefficient to the modulated first digital signal; and an operation unit configured to receive the attenuated first digital signal and the first digital signal, and transmit a residual signal to the digital self-interference cancellation unit, wherein the residual signal is obtained by subtracting the attenuated first digital signal from the first digital signal. |
| US09832052B2 |
Mobile communications system
A modulation scheme for use in a digital mobile radio communications system. The modulation scheme uses a four slot time-division multiple access scheme with 12.5 kHz channels. Each 12.5 kHz channel contains plural sub-carriers and each sub-carrier is modulated with a modulation scheme that encodes at least 4 bits per symbol. The modulation scheme can be used in a standalone mobile radio communications system, or in a hybrid mobile radio communications system that also uses standard TETRA modulation schemes. |
| US09832051B2 |
Front-end system for a radio device
The present disclosure relates to a front-end system for a radio device comprising: a charge generator circuit arranged for receiving a digital baseband signal, a first converter circuit arranged for calculating at least one charge value based on the digital baseband signal, a second converter circuit arranged for converting the at least one charge value into at least one electrical charge, and a modulator circuit arranged for generating a radio frequency signal based on the at least one electrical charge and at least one local oscillator signal. |
| US09832046B2 |
High speed communications system
Transmission of baseband and carrier-modulated vector codewords, using a plurality of encoders, each encoder configured to receive information bits and to generate a set of baseband-encoded symbols representing a vector codeword; one or more modulation circuits, each modulation circuit configured to operate on a corresponding set of baseband-encoded symbols, and using a respective unique carrier frequency, to generate a set of carrier-modulated encoded symbols; and, a summation circuit configured to generate a set of wire-specific outputs, each wire-specific output representing a sum of respective symbols of the carrier-modulated encoded symbols and at least one set of baseband-encoded symbols. |
| US09832039B2 |
Network monitoring method, relay device, and network monitoring system
A network monitoring method executed by a plurality of relay devices within a network includes stopping, by a first relay device, transfer of a data frame received via a port at which a loop in the network is detected when the loop is detected; transmitting a first search frame configured to identify one or more relay devices included in a path in which the loop has occurred; receiving, by a second relay device, the first search frame; transmitting a second search frame obtained by storing identifying information identifying the second relay device in a data region of the first search frame; and identifying, by the first relay device, the one or more relay devices included in the loop using information included in the data region of a third search frame generated from the second frame by passing through one or more relay devices, when the third search frame is received. |
| US09832037B2 |
Method and apparatus for register setting via multiplexed chip contacts
A method and apparatus for setting an internal register of an integrated circuit (IC) via a multiplexed pin which also passes an RF signal is provided. An internal RF signal path couples the pin to an internal terminal for the RF signal, and a register setting signal path couples the pin to an internal register. The internal register may be an address register, such as a USID address register of a MIPI RFFE bus. A capacitor on the RF signal path may block the constant voltage, and a resistor or inductor on the register setting signal path may block the RF signal. The integrated circuit may include an RF section and a controller section, where the controller section may be used to control the RF section. The controller section is responsive to an address associated with the address register. |
| US09832031B2 |
Bit index explicit replication forwarding using replication cache
A data packet forwarding method including receiving, by a network node, a data packet that comprises a bit string, a BFIR identifier (ID), and a multicast replication path (MRP) ID, wherein the BFIR ID identifies an ingress network node for a multicast group, and wherein the MRP ID identifies the multicast group, identifying an entry in a BIER Replication Path Cache Table (BRCT) using the BFIR ID and the MRP ID, wherein the entry identifies a replication neighbor (NBR) list associated with the BFIR ID and the MRP ID, and forwarding the data packet in accordance with the replication NBR list. |
| US09832028B2 |
Automatic power budget management for power-over-Ethernet apparatus
A power-over-Ethernet (PoE) apparatus is provided with PSE controllers that are cooperable to manage a global power budget of the PoE apparatus automatically. Information indicative of the global power budget is conveyed to a group of PSE controllers. The PSE controllers cooperate collectively to allocate the global power budget among themselves automatically and autonomously. This is accomplished in simple fashion without using a separate, programmed microcontroller. Each PSE controller also manages its own local power budget, allocating available local power among its own power sourcing ports. |
| US09832023B2 |
Verification of authenticity and responsiveness of biometric evidence and/or other evidence
Authenticity and responsiveness of evidence (e.g., biometric evidence) may be validated without regard for whether there is direct control over a sensor that acquired the evidence. In some implementations, only a data block containing evidence that is (1) appended with a server-generated challenge (e.g., a nonce) and (2) signed by the sensor may validate that the evidence is responsive to a current request and belongs to a current session. In some implementations, trust may be established and/or enhanced due to one or more security features (e.g., anti-spoofing, anti-tampering, and/or other security features) being collocated with the sensor at the actual sampling site. |
| US09832020B2 |
Cryptographic protocol for portable devices
Embodiments are directed towards communicating using a mobile device that performs actions including. A mobile device may be provisioned with an access point such that a provisioning key and a provisioning token for each of the provisioned access points may be stored on the mobile device. The mobile device may be determined to be in the presence of a provisioned access point based on the provisioning key and an advertising nonce. The advertising nonce may be encrypted with the provisioning key. A communication channel between the mobile device and the access point may be established based on a session nonce, the advertising nonce, and the provisioning key. A session key may be generated based in part on the advertising nonce and a message counter. And, encrypted message packets that include a message and a message authentication tag may be communicated to the access point. |
| US09832018B2 |
Method of generating a public key for an electronic device and electronic device
A method for generating a public key for an electronic device is provided, wherein the method comprises generating a public key 103 based on a private key and a unique identifier associated with the electronic device 200. |
| US09832011B1 |
Performance indicator for phase locked loops
Performance indicator circuitry is provided for characterizing performance of a phase locked loop (PLL) in a phase path of a polar modulator or polar transmitter that is used to generate a phase modulated RF signal. The PLL includes an oscillator, a high pass path, and a low pass path. The low pass path includes a loop filter. The performance indicator circuitry includes first input circuitry and parameter calculation circuitry. The first input circuitry is configured to input a loop filter signal from the loop filter. The parameter calculation circuitry is configured to compute a value for a performance indicator based on the loop filter signal and control or characterize an aspect of operation of the PLL based on the value. |
| US09832006B1 |
Method, apparatus and system for deskewing parallel interface links
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a clock channel to receive and distribute a clock signal to a plurality of data channels. At least some of the data channels may include: a first sampler to sample data; a second sampler to sample the data; and a deskew calibration circuit to receive first sampled data from the first sampler and second sampled data from the second sampler and generate a local calibration signal for use in the corresponding data channel. The apparatus may further include a global deskew calibration circuit to receive the clock signal from the clock channel, receive the first sampled data and the second sampled data from the plurality of data channels, and generate a global calibration signal for provision to the plurality of data channels. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US09832003B2 |
Systems and methods for self-interference canceller tuning
A system for self-interference canceller tuning includes a transmit coupler that creates a sampled analog transmit signal; an analog self-interference canceller that transforms the sampled analog transmit signal to an analog self-interference cancellation signal according to a set of tuning parameters, the set of tuning parameters comprising complex weights for a set of taps of the analog self-interference canceller; a tuning circuit that calculates the set of tuning parameters, and applies the set of tuning parameters to the analog self-interference canceller based on component calibration data of the analog self-interference canceller; and a receive coupler that combines the analog self-interference cancellation signal with the analog receive signal to reduce self-interference in the analog receive signal. |
| US09832001B2 |
Terminal device, base station, communication system, and communication method
The present invention provides a base station, a terminal device, a communication system, and a communication method configured to efficiently specify a physical uplink control channel resource in a case that the base station notifies the terminal device of control information through an enhanced physical downlink control channel or in a case that a cell radius is small. The terminal device in communication with the base station monitors a physical downlink control channel placed in a common search space and an enhanced physical downlink control channel placed in a terminal-specific search space. Upon detecting the enhanced physical downlink control channel, the terminal device maps response information to a physical uplink control channel resource determined in response to at least an index of an element forming the detected enhanced physical downlink control channel and an individual shift amount individually configured on a per terminal device basis, and then reports the base station of the mapped response information. |
| US09832000B2 |
Method and apparatus for signal interference processing
A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, a method for measuring a power level in at least a portion of a plurality of resource blocks occurring in a radio frequency spectrum, wherein the measuring occurs for a plurality of time cycles to generate a plurality of power level measurements, calculating a baseline power level according to at least a portion of the plurality of power levels, determining a threshold from the baseline power level, and monitoring at least a portion of the plurality of resource blocks for signal interference according to the threshold. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US09831999B2 |
Enhanced discontinued transmission and reception methods
Methods for operating a small cell in a discontinued reception (DRX) mode include maintaining the small cell in a discontinuous transmission (DTX) mode during a first time period having a plurality of first time slots. The methods include transmitting common reference signals in a predetermined number of second time slots prior to the first time slots and in a predetermined number of third time slots following commencement of the first time slots. The methods include discontinuing transmission of the common reference signals and common channel signals if mobile devices are in a discontinuous reception mode during the first time period. The methods include discontinuing transmission of the common reference signals during a predetermined number of fourth time slots following commencement of the first time period if there is no dedicated common transmission to the mobile devices. |
| US09831998B2 |
Apparatus and method for feeding back channel quality information and scheduling apparatus and method using the same in a wireless communication system
An apparatus and method are provided for feeding back channel quality information and performing scheduling using the fed-back channel quality information in a wireless communication system based on Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA). In the OFDMA wireless communication system, forward performance degradation due to a decrease in an amount of reverse channel quality information is reduced, and also an increase in the reverse load due to channel quality information feedback is suppressed. A base station controls power of a physical channel using information fed back from a mobile station. In a method for feeding back channel quality information from the mobile station, sub-band-by-sub-band channel quality information is measured and channel-by-channel quality information of a number of channels is transmitted in order of sub-bands of better channel quality information. Average channel quality information for a total band is measured and transmitted. |
| US09831991B2 |
Cooperative communication method and system, access network device, and user equipment
Embodiments of the present invention provide a cooperative communication method and system, an access network device, and a user equipment. The method includes, when a access network device receives downlink data belonging to a first user equipment UE, if it is determined that a supporting UE in a support list of the first UE cannot serve as a current supporting UE of the downlink data, establishing a cooperative communication relationship between a second UE and the first UE, that is, setting the second UE as the current supporting UE of the first UE. The second UE is another UE except the first UE and the supporting UE in the support list of the first UE. The downlink data is sent to the second UE, so that the second UE sends the downlink data to the first UE. |
| US09831989B2 |
Method for setting starting position of data channel in wireless communication system and device using method
Provided are a method for setting a starting position in a time domain of a data channel in a wireless communication system and a device using the method thereof. The method comprises the steps of: receiving position information notifying the position at which data channels start in a plurality of subframes; receiving a control channel in a first downlink subframe; and receiving at least one data channel scheduled by the control channel in the plurality of the downlink subframes, wherein the position at which the data channel starts in the plurality of the downlink subframes is determined on the basis of the position information. |
| US09831988B2 |
Method of exchanging data packages between first and second portable communication devices
The present disclosure relates to a method of exchanging data packages between first and second portable communication devices over a bi-directional wireless communication channel. The method includes generating, by the first portable communication device, a first data package belonging to a first packet category comprising audio data or to a second packet category without audio data and transmitting the first data package from the first portable communication device to the second portable communication device through the wireless communication channel. Where an acknowledgement indicator of the second data package is unset or the second data package is absent, the first portable communication device retransmits the first data package from the first to the second portable communication device for at the most N times if the first data package belongs to the first packet category; N being a positive integer between 1 and 4. |
| US09831986B2 |
Digital television transmitting system and receiving system and method of processing broadcasting data
A method and transmitting system for processing data are discussed. The method according to an embodiment includes randomizing enhanced data; first encoding the randomized enhanced data to add first parity data for error correction, thereby forming a frame; dividing data of the frame into a plurality of groups, wherein the plurality of groups have a same size; first interleaving data of each group; second interleaving the first-interleaved data; encoding signaling information at a code rate; and transmitting a broadcast signal including the second-interleaved enhanced data and the encoded signaling information. Second encoding on the randomized enhanced data is selectively performed, wherein, when the second encoding is performed, second parity data for error detection are added to the randomized enhanced data. The signaling information includes transmission parameters to indicate whether the second encoding is performed. |
| US09831984B1 |
Method and device for error decision
A method of error decision, comprising: for each of a plurality of demodulated decision information in a codeword, identifying by a controller, a decoded bit for the demodulated decision as an erasable error bit if the demodulated decision information is larger than a first threshold and smaller than a second threshold; for all the identified erasable error bits, enumerating by a calculator, all possible combinations of the identified erasable error bits; for each combination of all enumerated possible combinations feeding by the calculator, each combination with all other decided decoded bits of the code word into a header correction checker; performing, by the header correction checker, header correction checking for each combination; and outputting, by a decision circuit connected to the header correction checker, a combination with a correct header correction check (HEC) result as an output sequence. |
| US09831982B2 |
Method and radio node for enabling use of high order modulation in a radio communication with a user equipment
A method and radio node for enabling higher-order modulation in a radio communication with a first UE. A first table configuration comprises at least one of a first Modulation and Coding Scheme, MCS, table and a first Channel Quality Indicator, CQI, table which tables support a certain maximum modulation order. When the radio node detects that a modulation order higher than the maximum modulation order of the first table configuration is potentially possible to use in the radio communication, the radio node instructs the first UE to apply a second table configuration which comprises at least one of a second MCS table and a second CQI table which second tables support the higher modulation order. At least one entry for at least one modulation order in the tables of the first table configuration is maintained in the tables of the second table configuration as a fall-back in case it is desirable to use the at least one modulation order of the first table configuration when the second table configuration is applied. Thereby, a higher data rate can be achieved in the radio communication. |
| US09831980B2 |
Systems and methods for vehicle tracking
The invention concerns a vehicle tracking network including a plurality of subscriber vehicles and a control-center; and systems and methods for tracking vehicles, which are subscribers to such vehicle tracking network. In certain implementations, the method for tracking a subscriber vehicle includes the following operations carried out at the subscriber vehicle: monitoring operation of one or more services related to at least one of a wireless network communication service and positioning service associated with the subscriber vehicle; upon detecting a failure in at least one of said services, generating a corresponding distress signal encoded to be identifiable by other subscriber vehicle(s) of the vehicle tracking network; and broadcasting the encoded distress signal such that it is detectable by one or more of the other subscriber vehicles of the vehicle tracking network, which are located in the vicinity of the subscriber vehicle broadcasting the distress signal. Another subscriber vehicle(s), which receive the distress signal, may thereby initiate automatic notification of the condition of the vehicle broadcasting the distress signal to the control center. |
| US09831978B1 |
Method and system for controlling spectral occupancy
Aspects of the disclosure provided systems and methods which mitigate negative effects of Spectral Hole Burning when spectral changes are made. Embodiments of the disclosure are directed to methods and systems which preform spectral holes for the range of wavelength channels expected to be used in the optical communication system. In some embodiments this is achieved by controlling the network to ensure optical power is provided at each of a set of idle tone wavelengths distributed across the spectral band used in the optical communication system. In some embodiments a routing and spectrum assignment function satisfies new service requests while maintaining power to the set of idle tone wavelength functions. In some embodiments a network control function configures Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers to broadcast idle tone wavelengths to provide power to each idle tone in each section. |
| US09831968B2 |
Digital switching signal sequence for switching purposes, apparatus for including said digital switching signal sequence in a digital audio information signal, and apparatus for receiving the information signal provided with the switching signal sequence
A digital switching signal sequence is realized as a previously digitized, high-pass filtered white noise signal of a predetermined length T, with a high-pass cut-off frequency which lies above the frequency where the loudness threshold characteristic in silence of the human hearing has its highest sensitivity, if possible. The switching signal sequence is employed for switching purposes (206), e.g., for switching between two information signals (201, 207). |
| US09831967B2 |
Accessing radio content from a non-radio source
Systems and methods are provided for accessing broadcast media items and segments from non-broadcast sources. In response to detecting that a user has not finished listening to a broadcast segment (e.g., a radio segment), an electronic device can automatically identify and access an alternate, non-broadcast source for the same broadcast segment (e.g., a corresponding podcast episode). Using the electronic device, a user can play back the segment from the non-broadcast source, starting playback at the last position of the broadcast segment when the user stopped listening to the broadcast. In some embodiments, the electronic device can update library counts (e.g., play counts and new/not new tags) based on media items and segments played back as part of a media broadcast. |
| US09831966B2 |
Method and device for continuation of multimedia playback
The present invention provides a method for continuation of multimedia playback, comprising receiving a radio broadcast comprising audio and/or video content at a first mobile electronic device, playing back said content, accessing a data connection, searching for a source of said content provided via said data connection, and stopping playback of said content from said radio broadcast and starting playback of said content from said source if at least one source is found. The switching to another content source can also be performed in the opposite direction. The invention also provides devices for performing the multimedia playback continuation method. |
| US09831958B2 |
Resource allocation for superposition coding
When the codeword level interference cancellation (CW-IC) is used at the receiver in conjunction with the superposition coding scheme at the transmitter, in order to guarantee the success of signal reception, restrictions of scheduling decisions in resource allocation of superposed transport blocks may occur. A method to mitigate the scheduling restrictions is proposed. For a low-geometry UE in NOMA operation, one sub-band is used as the basic scheduling unit. As a result, data in resource blocks scheduled for NOMA operation and data in resource blocks scheduled for other non-NOMA operation correspond to different transport blocks. Therefore, a high-geometric UE only needs to decode the data scheduled for NOMA. The base station does not need to impose additional scheduling restrictions and signaling overhead. |
| US09831957B2 |
Self-equalizing photo detector
A self-equalizing photo-detector (SEPD) includes, in part, a multitude of optical splitters and photo detectors, and at least one optical delay element. The first optical splitter splits an optical signal into second and third optical signals. The optical delay element delays the second optical signal to generate a fourth optical signal. The second optical splitter splits a signal representative of the fourth optical signal to generate fifth and sixth optical signals. The first photo detector receives the third optical signal via a first optical path, has an anode terminal coupled to an output terminal of the detector and a cathode terminal coupled to a first supply voltage. The second photo detector receives the sixth optical signal via a second optical path, has an anode terminal coupled to a second supply voltage and a cathode terminal coupled to the output terminal of the detector. |
| US09831956B2 |
Signal processing device and signal processing method
A nonlinear compensation unit (300) includes a first compensation unit (350) and a second compensation unit (360). The first compensation unit (350) compensates for each of two polarization signals Ex and Ey so as to cancel a first amount of phase rotation which is the amount of phase rotation calculated based on the signal strength of the two polarization signals Ex and Ey. The second compensation unit (360) compensates for each of the two polarization signals Ex and Ey so as to cancel a second amount of phase rotation which is the amount of phase rotation calculated based on the perturbative component of the two polarization signals Ex and Ey. The first compensation unit (350) includes a strength calculation unit (302), a first filter unit (304), and a first phase modulation unit (306). The second compensation unit (360) includes a perturbative component calculation unit (316), a second filter unit (318), a second phase modulation unit (322), and a third phase modulation unit (330). |
| US09831955B2 |
Systems, devices, and methods for photonic to radio frequency downconversion
A system, method, and device for RF upconversion. The system can include a laser, two EAMs, a photonic filter, a photonic service filter, two photodiodes, and a mixer. The first EAM can convert a received RF signal into the photonic domain by modulating an optical signal (received from the laser) based on the received RF signal to output a modulated optical signal. The photonic filter can output a filtered optical signal based on the modulated optical signal to the first photodiode which can output a filtered RF signal in the RF domain. The second EAM can output an LO modulated optical signal based on a received LO to the service filter which can output a filtered LO optical signal to the second photodiode which can output a filtered LO signal in the RF domain. The mixer can mix the filtered RF and LO signals to generate an IF signal. |
| US09831952B2 |
Optical bandwidth manager
A system may receive user input that identifies network entities in an optical network. The system may provide a user interface that displays a representation of the network entities and of optical link types configured to carry optical signals among the network entities. The system may receive user input that identifies a particular optical link type, and may display a representation of optical links, of the particular optical link type, that are associated with the network entities. The system may also display an indication of an allocation status of the optical links. The system may receive user input that identifies an available optical link to be allocated for an optical transmission, and may provide, to the network entities and based on the user input, information that identifies the available optical link to permit the available optical link to be allocated for the optical transmission between the network entities. |
| US09831951B2 |
Optically balanced opto-electrical oscillator
An opto-electrical oscillator includes, in part, first and second optical phase modulators, a coupler, an optical-to-electrical signal conversion circuit, and a control circuit. The first optical phase modulator modulates the phase of a first optical signal in response to a first feedback signal to generate a first phase modulated signal. The second optical phase modulator modulates the phase of a second optical signal in response to a second feedback signal to generate a second phase modulated signal. The first and second optical signals travel through first and second optical paths respectively and are generated from the same optical source. The optical-to-electrical signal conversion circuit receives an optical signal from the coupler and in response generates an electrical signal applied to the control circuit. The output signals of the control circuit cause the first and second feedback signals to be out of phase. |
| US09831949B2 |
Modulation device, light emitting device, and light emission system
A modulation device includes a modulator circuit that causes a light source to perform light communication, storage storing an internal ID, and a control circuit that determines whether an external ID is input into the modulation device. When the control circuit determines that the external ID is input into the modulation device, the control circuit causes the input external ID to be input, as a modulation signal, into the modulator circuit. When the control circuit determines that the external ID is not input into the modulation device, the control circuit causes the internal ID stored in the storage to be input, as a modulation signal, into the modulator circuit. |
| US09831945B2 |
Methods, apparatuses and system for monitoring ROADM optical network
Provided are methods, apparatuses and a system for monitoring a Reconfigurable Optical Add Drop Multiplexer (ROADM) optical network. The method includes: loading, in an optical signal at a sending end, a wavelength label frequency and attribute information of a channel used for transmitting the optical signal; sending the wavelength label frequency and/or the attribute information; receiving, at a monitoring end, the optical signal and acquiring, from the optical signal, the wavelength label frequency and/or the attribute information of the channel used for transmitting the optical signal; and monitoring the ROADM optical network according to the wavelength label frequency and/or the attribute information. The technical solution solves the technical problem in related art that the ROADM optical network cannot be effectively monitored, and achieves the effective monitoring of the ROADM optical network. |
| US09831943B2 |
Repeater OTDR using repeater based raman pumps
A submarine optical repeater includes a submarine amplifier module, which further includes a pumping laser module and an optical detector module. The pumping laser module generates optical amplifications within an optical cable, and, in the case of a fault in the optical cable, the optical detector module detects at least one characteristic of an optical signal caused by the fault in the optical cable. This configuration then identifies a particular signal characteristic that indicates a fault within the optical cable. |
| US09831942B2 |
Methods and systems for recovery in coherent optical networks
A method for receiving, by circuitry of an optical node adapted for wavelength multiplexing and wavelength switching, over an OSC an optical signal comprising overhead information indicative of status of at least one of an optical layer in an OTN; terminating the optical signal; notifying software of the status of the optical layer; detecting, based on the status of the optical layer, a uni-directional or bi-directional failure of a working path between the optical node and a second optical node, wherein the working path carries data traffic from the first optical node to the second optical node in the OTN when there is no failure in the working path; and switching, triggered by the uni-directional or bi-directional failure of the working path, to select the data traffic from a protection path, wherein the protection path carries data traffic between the optical node and the second optical node. |
| US09831941B2 |
Wireless receiver
A method and apparatus for a wireless receiver are described herein. A user equipment (UE) may process control information in a first time slot of a transmission time interval (TTI) having a plurality of time slots. The UE may, in response to the control information including valid resource assignment information for the UE, receive data in the first time slot and another time slot of the TTI. The UE may, in response to the control information not including valid resource assignment information for the UE, discontinue reception in the TTI. The UE may discontinue reception for another time slot of the TTI. The circuitry may be further configured to receive a transmission indicating that a base station will discontinuously transmit to the UE. The control information may be processed prior to processing any of the data symbols of the TTI. |
| US09831937B2 |
Communication system and method for the transmission of audio data signals from an aircraft cockpit to a ground station
A communication system installed in an aircraft, the system comprising a transmitter configured to transmit audio data signals to a ground recording station provided with memories for the recording of the data, at least one audio assembly per pilot of the aircraft for transmitting and receiving audio data signals, a CVR recorder and an audio management unit connected to each audio assembly, to the CVR recorder and to the transmitter, the unit being configured to transfer the audio signals received or transmitted by an audio assembly to the transmitter and to the CVR recorder. Each audio assembly comprises an in-use detection system connected to the transmitter and configured to transmit to the transmitter a signal representative of the in-use state of the audio assembly. The transmitter transmits the audio data signals received from the management unit to the ground recording station on reception of the signal. |
| US09831931B2 |
Apparatus and method for digital beam-forming with low-resolution quantization
An antenna arrangement configured for digital beam-forming of a transmit signal comprising; a number N>1 of digital to analog converters, DACs, each of the N DACs being arranged to receive one respective digital transmit signal component, and to convert and output an analog transmit signal component, each of the N DACs having a respective resolution below a resolution required to fulfill a regulatory radio requirement in an interchangeable antenna arrangement arranged for transmission by a single antenna element connected to a single DAC; and N antenna elements, each of the N antenna elements being configured to receive one respective analog transmit signal component and to transmit the analog transmit signal component as part of the digitally beam-formed transmit signal. |
| US09831918B2 |
Secure wireless peer-peer connection using near-field communication
A system (100) for establishing a secure wireless peer-to-peer (P2P) connection using near-field communication (NFC) comprising a first device (105), the first device (105) comprising near-field communication hardware (115) to communicate with a second device (110) and obtain a handover select record, in which the handover select record comprises data to establish a secure wireless peer-to-peer (P2P) connection with the second device (110), and in which a context of the first device (105) and second device (110) defines an action to be initiated on the second device (110). |
| US09831917B2 |
Electric field coupling type wireless electric power transmitting system and electric power receiving apparatus included in the same
An electric power receiving apparatus of an electric power transmitting system includes an overvoltage suppressing unit connected in parallel to a resonant circuit. The overvoltage suppressing unit is formed by an impedance element. Impedance of the impedance element is set to such a value that a rise in a voltage across at least one pair of electric power receiving electrodes is suppressed as compared to a case in which the impedance element is not connected, in the process in which coupling capacitance Cm between electric power transmitting electrodes and the electric power receiving electrodes changes from a value held while the electric power transmitting electrodes and the electric power receiving electrodes are in a predetermined positional relationship during normal electric power transmission to substantially zero. |
| US09831916B2 |
Method and system for transmitting data via direct current lines
The disclosure relates to a method for transmitting data via direct current lines for energy transmission from a first communication unit to a second communication unit. The method includes generating a high-frequency test signal having a predefined voltage amplitude by the first or the second communication unit and coupling the high-frequency test signal onto the direct current lines. The method further includes determining a current level caused by the high-frequency test signal on the direct current lines by the first communication unit, and determining a voltage amplitude for a high-frequency signal based on the current level caused by the test signal. The method also includes coupling a high-frequency signal having the predetermined voltage amplitude onto the direct current lines by the first communication unit. The disclosure also relates to a system for transmitting data via direct current lines for energy transmission and to a photovoltaic installation having such a system. |
| US09831915B2 |
Transmitter, communications system and method for transmitting data signals
A transmitter for transmitting data signals to at least one communications device over a wired network on a plurality of carriers is provided, wherein the carriers are located in frequencies being allocated by one or more radio services, wherein each of the radio services is allocated to one or a plurality of frequency bands, the transmitter comprising a symbol generator configured to generate symbols based on the data signals; a processor configured to generate copies of the symbols and to determine an allocation of the copies onto the plurality of carriers, wherein a first copy and a second copy of each symbol are allocated to carriers located in frequency bands that are allocated to different radio services; and a modulator configured to modulate the copies of the symbols on the carriers in accordance with the determined allocation. |
| US09831911B2 |
Communication apparatus and communication method
A wireless communication terminal apparatus wherein CoMP communication can normally be performed without increasing the overhead of an upstream line control channel. In this apparatus, a spreading unit primarily spreads a response signal by use of a ZAC sequence established by a control unit. A spreading unit secondarily spreads the response signal, to which CP has been added, by use of a block-wise spread code sequence established by the control unit. The control unit controls, in accordance with sequence numbers and a hopping pattern established therein, the circular shift amount of the ZAC sequence to be used for the primary spread in the spreading unit and the block-wise spread code sequence to be used for the secondary spread in the spreading unit. The hopping pattern established in the control unit is a hopping pattern common to a plurality of base stations that CoMP-receive the response signal. |
| US09831903B1 |
Update of a trusted name list
Methods, devices, and servers for as-needed update of a trusted list are provided herein. An electronic subscriber identity module (eSIM) server receives a request for an eSIM of a particular type from a wireless device. The eSIM server evaluates the particular type and requests an eSIM of the particular type from a second eSIM server, which is not initially trusted by a secure element (SE) of the wireless device. The eSIM server sends a policy update to the wireless device. The wireless device passes the policy update to the SE, for example, a universal integrated circuit card (UICC). The UICC updates the trusted list with an identity of the second eSIM server. When the wireless device downloads a bound profile package (BPP) containing an eSIM from the second eSIM server, the UICC validates the BPP based on the updated trusted list. The eSIM is then installed on the UICC. |
| US09831900B2 |
Wireless communication device
A wireless communication device includes an antenna, a DPDC, an amplifier, a coupler, and a bias output unit. The DPDC performs distortion compensation on a transmission signal based on a feedback signal. The amplifier amplifies the transmission signal subjected to the distortion compensation by the DPDC. The coupler splits the transmission signal amplified by the amplifier into a transmission signal output to the antenna and the feedback signal input to the DPDC. The DPDC measures an index based on a reflected wave obtained by reflection of the transmission signal split by the coupler from the antenna. The bias output unit applies a bias voltage for controlling an efficiency of an amplifier to the amplifier in accordance with the index measured by the DPDC. |
| US09831898B2 |
Radio frequency transmitter noise cancellation
Transmitter noise cancellation may be applied on a channel by channel basis to active channels of an incoming radio frequency signal received at a receiver. A noise cancellation filter may be provided for each active channel in a predetermined signal band. Applying noise cancellation on a per active channel basis instead of to the entire receive band may substantially reduce the filtering requirement and number of filter coefficients or taps to save power and reduce manufacturing costs. Channelized transmitter noise cancellers, multi transmitter-receiver cross coupling cancellers, and hybrid full signal band and channelized transmitter noise cancellers are also provided. |
| US09831897B2 |
Directional coupler and diplexer
A directional coupler includes rectangular waveguides each including: a pair of protruding sections which are provided on a first narrow wall or a second narrow wall, which are provided symmetrically with respect to an opening, and which protrude from one of the first and second narrow walls toward the other; and other protruding section which protrudes from the second narrow wall toward the opening. |
| US09831896B2 |
Low density parity check code for terrestrial cloud broadcast
Provided is an LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) code for terrestrial cloud broadcast. A method of encoding input information based on an LDPC (Low Density Parity Check) includes receiving information and encoding the input information with an LDPC codeword using a parity check matrix, wherein the parity check matrix may have a structure obtained by combining a first parity check matrix for an LDPC code having a higher code rate than a reference value with a second parity check matrix for an LDPC code having a lower code rate than the reference value. |
| US09831893B2 |
Information processing device, data compression method and data compression program
An information processing device includes: a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory and the processor configured to: generate compressed data, in sets of a prescribed size, in respect of one set of object data, in accordance with each of a plurality of compression methods; and select compressed data of the compression method which has completed compression of the object data first, among the plurality of compression methods. |
| US09831888B1 |
Sort-and delay time-to-digital converter
A sort-and-delay time-to-digital converter (TDC) is provided, made up of a plurality of serially connected sort-and-delay circuits. Each sort-and-delay circuit accepts a time-differential input signal with a first edge separated from a second edge by an input duration of time. The first and second edges are selectively routed as a time-differential output signal with a delayed edge separated from a trailing edge by an output duration of time representing a compression of the input duration of time. Each sort-and-delay circuit also supplies a TDC coded bit (e.g., Gray code) indicating the order in which the first and second edges are routed as leading and trailing edges. The TDC outputs a digital output signal representing the initial input duration of time associated with the initial time-differential input signal received by the initial sort-and-delay circuit. Associated TDC, sort-and-delay, and time amplification methods are also provided. |
| US09831885B2 |
System for conversion between analog domain and digital domain with mismatch error shaping
The invention provides a system for conversion between analog domain and digital domain with mismatch error shaping, including a DAC, a first injection circuit coupled to the DAC, and a second injection circuit coupled to the DAC. The DAC generates a first analog value in response to a first digital value, and generates a second analog value in response to a second digital value. The first injection circuit enables an analog injection value to be injected to the second analog value when the DAC generates the second analog value, wherein the analog injection value is converted from a digital injection value formed by a subset of bits of the first digital value. The second injection circuit injects the digital injection value to the second digital value, or combines the digital injection value and a related value obtained according to the second analog value. |
| US09831882B1 |
Fast-response hybrid lock detector
The invention concerns an apparatus comprising an analog circuit and a digital circuit. The analog circuit may be configured to generate an enable signal in response to (i) a comparison of a width of an up pulse and a pre-determined width and (ii) a comparison of a width of a down pulse and the pre-determined width. The up pulse and the down pulse may be generated in response to a comparison of a feedback signal and a reference signal. The enable signal may be active when both the comparisons are within a pre-determined threshold. The digital circuit may be configured to generate an output signal representing a lock status between (i) the feedback signal and (ii) the reference signal. The lock status may be determined (a) during a decision window based on a number of pulses of the reference signal and (b) when the enable signal is active. |
| US09831880B1 |
Systems and methods for automatic bandwidth and damping factor optimization of circuits
Systems and methods for automatically controlling one or more parameters of a digital phase-locked loop (DPLL) circuit are provided. A phase error signal generated by a phase detector of the DPLL circuit is received. A delayed version of the phase error signal is generated. A product of the phase error signal and the delayed version of the phase error signal is generated. The product is integrated, and a first output for controlling a gain of a proportional path of the DPLL circuit is generated based on the integrated product. The first output is down-sampled. A least-mean-square (LMS) filter is used to generate a second output that minimizes a value of the down-sampled output. A gain of an integral path of the DPLL is controlled based on the second output. |
| US09831876B2 |
Receiver circuitry and method for converting an input signal from a source voltage domain into an output signal for a destination voltage domain
The present invention provides a receiver circuit and method for receiving an input signal from a source voltage domain and converting the input signal into an output signal for a destination voltage domain. The source voltage domain operates from a supply voltage that exceeds a stressing threshold of components within the receiver circuitry, and the receiver circuitry is configured to operate from the supply voltage of the source voltage domain. The receiver circuitry comprises first internal signal generation circuitry configured to convert the input signal into a first internal signal in a first voltage range, and second internal signal generation circuitry configured to convert the input signal into a second internal signal in a second voltage range. Signal evaluation circuitry establishes a logic high voltage threshold and a logic low voltage threshold dependent on the supply voltage, and employs the first and second internal signals in order to detect based on the logic high voltage threshold and logic low voltage threshold when the input signal transitions between a logic low level and a logic high level (in either direction). Output generation circuitry then generates the output signal in dependence on the detection performed by the signal evaluation circuitry. The first voltage range and the second voltage range are such that the first internal signal and second internal signal will not exceed the stressing threshold of components in the signal evaluation circuitry. The receiver circuitry is able to reliably detect transitions in the input signal in situations where the supply voltage of the source voltage domain exceeds the stressing threshold of the receiver's components, but without overstress of the receiver's components. |
| US09831875B2 |
Circuit technique to enhance slew rate for high speed applications
A circuit is disclosed. The circuit includes an output driver with a pull-up device, and a pull-down device. The circuit also includes a pre-driver, configured to generate a first signal for the pull-up device and to generate a second signal for the pull-down device, a first positive feedback circuit configured to increase the slew rate of the first signal in response to a transition in the second signal, and a second positive feedback circuit configured to increase the slew rate of the second signal in response to a transition in the first signal. |
| US09831871B2 |
Touch panel comprising a piezoelectric material
A touch panel according to the embodiment includes a substrate including an effective area and a dummy area surrounding the effective area; a transparent electrode on the substrate; and an outer dummy layer on the dummy area, wherein the outer dummy layer comprises a piezoelectric material. |
| US09831870B2 |
Proximity switch assembly and method of tuning same
A proximity switch assembly and method for detecting activation of a proximity switch assembly and tuning the assembly. The assembly includes proximity switches each having a proximity sensor providing a sense activation field and control circuitry processing the activation field to sense activation. The method of tuning includes generating an activation field with a proximity sensor, generating a signal in response to the activation field, detecting noise associated with the signal, and adjusting a parameter based on the detected noise, wherein the parameter is used to detect a proximity state such as activation of the proximity switch. |
| US09831869B2 |
Radio frequency switching circuit with distributed switches
An RF switching device having distributed shunt switches distributed along transmission lines to improve RF bandwidth as well as the signal isolation of the device. The shunt switches may be physically positioned on both sides of the transmission lines to keep an integrated circuit (IC) design essentially symmetrical so as to provide predictable and reliable operational characteristics. Some embodiments include stacked FET shunt switches and series switches to tolerate high voltages. In some embodiments, the gate resistor for each FET shunt switch is divided into two or more portions. |
| US09831868B2 |
Driving circuit for driving a piezoelectric element
A drive signal generator includes a drive signal generator that generates a drive signal for driving a capacitive load. In the drive signal generator, a set of a first MOSFET and a second MOSFET which are electrically connected in series between a wire of a high potential and a wire of a low potential is arranged in plurality in series. A part or all of the first MOSFETs and the second MOSFETs in the plurality of sets have different sizes from each other. |
| US09831861B2 |
Phase detector
A phase detection circuit includes a first sample circuit, a second sample circuit, and a third sample circuit. The first sample circuit may be configured to sample a first signal based on a first phase of a second signal to generate a first sample of the first signal and to output the first sample. The second sample circuit may be configured to sample the first signal based on a second phase of the second signal to generate a second sample of the first signal and to output second sample. The third sample circuit coupled to the first sample circuit and to the second sample circuit. The third sample circuit may be configured to sample the first sample based on a change of the second sample to generate a third sample and to output the third sample. |
| US09831859B2 |
Buffer circuit, semiconductor integrated circuit, and system including the buffer circuit
According to an embodiment, a buffer circuit may be provided. The buffer circuit may include a first buffer configured to receive first and second external clock signals and generate a first pre-clock signal based on falling timings of the first and second external clock signals. The buffer circuit may include a second buffer configured to receive the first and second external clock signals and generate a second pre-clock signal based on raising timings of the first and second external clock signals. |
| US09831857B2 |
Power splitter with programmable output phase shift
Devices and methods for implementing an RF integrated circuit device operatively configured to provide the function of RF power splitter with programmable output phase shift are described. Configurable and adjustable phase shift units for use in such IC device are also described. |
| US09831853B2 |
Current-controlled CMOS logic family
Various circuit techniques for implementing ultra high speed circuits use current-controlled CMOS (C3MOS) logic fabricated in conventional CMOS process technology. An entire family of logic elements including inverter/buffers, level shifters, NAND, NOR, XOR gates, latches, flip-flops and the like are implemented using C3MOS techniques. Optimum balance between power consumption and speed for each circuit application is achieve by combining high speed C3MOS logic with low power conventional CMOS logic. The combined C3MOS/CMOS logic allows greater integration of circuits such as high speed transceivers used in fiber optic communication systems. |
| US09831847B2 |
Transformer based impedance matching network and related power amplifier, ADPLL and transmitter based thereon
A novel and useful transmitter (TX) architecture for ultra-low power (ULP) radios. An all-digital PLL employs a digitally controlled oscillator (DCO) having switching current sources to reduce supply voltage and power consumption without sacrificing phase noise and startup margins. It also reduces 1/f noise allowing the ADPLL after settling to reduce its sampling rate or shut it off entirely during direct DCO data modulation. A switching power amplifier integrates its matching network while operating in class-E/F2 to maximally enhance its efficiency. The transmitter has been realized in 28 nm CMOS and satisfies all metal density and other manufacturing rules. It consumes 3.6 mW/5.5 mW while delivering 0 dBm/3 dBm RF power in Bluetooth Low-Energy. |
| US09831846B2 |
Power conversion system
For power conversion, a power conversion system includes a plurality of power converters and a phase shifting transformer. The phase shifting transformer includes 3-phase primary windings, a core and a plurality of m secondary winding groups. Each of the secondary winding groups includes n secondary windings in electromagnetic communication with a corresponding primary winding and feeding the plurality of power converters. Phase angle sets of the secondary winding groups are all different with a non-zero secondary winding phase shift between any two secondary winding groups. |
| US09831842B2 |
Semiconductor integrated circuit, variable gain amplifier, and sensing system
Provided is a semiconductor integrated circuit including a pad Pd1 provided on one end side of a resistive element R1 externally provided, a pad Pd5 provided on a different end side of the resistive element R1; an operation amplifier A1, a signal line L11 wired between an output terminal of the operation amplifier A1 and the pad Pd1, a signal line L21 wired between an inverting input terminal of the operation amplifier A1 and the pad Pd5, a ESD protection element r11 provided to the signal line L11, and a signal line L31, through which a voltage signal of the pad Pd1 is transmitted. The signal line L31 is connected to the pad Pd1. |
| US09831841B2 |
Switchable base feed circuit for radio-frequency power amplifiers
Switchable base feed circuit for radio-frequency (RF) power amplifiers. In some embodiments, an RF power amplifier (PA) circuit can include a transistor having a base, a collector, and an emitter, with the transistor being configured to amplify an RF signal. The PA circuit can further include a bias circuit configured to provide a base bias signal to the base of the transistor. The PA circuit can further include a switchable base feed circuit implemented between the bias circuit and the base of the transistor. The switchable base feed circuit can be configured to provide a plurality of different resistance values for the base bias signal between the bias circuit and the base of the transistor. Such a PA circuit can be implemented in products such as a die, a module, and a wireless device. |
| US09831840B2 |
Amplifier circuit and method for adaptive amplifier biasing
Disclosed examples include amplifier circuits with a first stage to amplify an input voltage signal according to a first stage gain to provide a first stage output voltage signal, and a second stage to provide an amplifier output voltage signal. A bias circuit provides an amplifier bias current signal to a current mirror circuit coupled with the first stage to control a first stage bias current, and an adjustment circuit to reduce the amplifier bias current signal and increase the first stage gain when the input voltage signal is near a first supply voltage or a second supply voltage. |
| US09831839B2 |
Power stage with switched mode amplifier and linear amplifier
A method for producing an output voltage to a load may include, in a power stage comprising power converter having a power inductor, a plurality of switches arranged to sequentially operate in a plurality of switch configurations, and an output for producing the output voltage comprising a first output terminal and a second output terminal, controlling the linear amplifier to transfer electrical energy from the input source of the power stage to the load in accordance with one or more least significant bits of a digital input signal, and controlling the power converter in accordance with bits of the digital input signal other than the one or more least significant bits to sequentially apply switch configurations from the plurality of switch configurations to selectively activate or deactivate each of the plurality of switches in order to transfer electrical energy from the input source of the power stage to the load. |
| US09831837B2 |
Dynamic power divider circuits and methods
The present disclosure includes dynamic power divider circuits and methods. In one embodiment, a dynamic power divider includes first and second quarter wave lines that receive an input signal and produce first and second signal on second terminals of the lines. Dynamic power division of the input signal uses a variable impedance circuit between the second terminal of the first quarter wave line and the second terminal of the second quarter wave line. The variable impedance may reduce impedance between two output paths as the input signal power increases or increase impedance between the output paths as the input signal power decreases. |
| US09831836B1 |
Automatic gain control (AGC) circuit and method to control amplifier gain based on a duration of an overload condition
An automatic gain control (AGC) circuit and method are provided herein to control the gain, and the gain step size, of an amplifier circuit based on a duration of a detected overload condition. According to one embodiment, a method of gain control may include comparing a received signal to a threshold value, detecting an overload condition if the received signal exceeds the threshold value, detecting a duration of the overload condition, and controlling the gain, and the gain step size, of the amplifier circuit based on the detected duration of the overload condition. |
| US09831828B1 |
Solar cell testing apparatus and solar cell testing method
A solar cell testing apparatus is provided that tests bypass diodes in a solar cell string constructed by connecting a plurality of solar cell modules, which include solar cells and the bypass diodes, in series for failures in the open position. The solar cell testing apparatus includes a unidirectional element that is connected between a positive electrode and a negative electrode of the solar cell string, and a voltage applier that applies a test voltage across the positive electrode and the negative electrode of the solar cell string to which the unidirectional element is connected. The solar cell testing apparatus also includes a current detector that detects a current flowing in the solar cell string, and a processor that executes processes that measure a current value of a shorted current of a solar cell string and tests for failures. |
| US09831822B1 |
Telescopic mechanism and photovoltaic panel cleaning equipment having same
A telescopic mechanism arranged on a cleaning rack of a photovoltaic panel cleaning equipment configured for cleaning photovoltaic panels is disclosed. The cleaning rack includes a first connecting rod, a second connecting rod, a third connecting rod and a fourth connecting rod, which are detachably connected, a first fixed rod being arranged on the first connecting rod, a second fixed rod and a third fixed rod being arranged between second connecting rod and fourth connecting rod, a fourth fixed rod being arranged on third connecting rod. Telescopic mechanism includes a first telescopic unit and a second telescopic unit, first telescopic unit is detachably-mounted between first and second fixed rods and the second telescopic unit is detachably-mounted between third and fourth fixed rods. By adopting the telescopic mechanism, photovoltaic panel cleaning equipment can automatically move from one photovoltaic panel array to another photovoltaic panel array in cooperation with obstacle crossing mechanism. |
| US09831817B2 |
Solar panel mounting base and system for solar panel installation
A solar panel mounting base and system for solar panel installation uses a mounting base that is injection molded to include different connection locations which provide flexibility when installing solar panels to the mounting bases. Attachment clamps are secured to the mounting base using carriage bolts which are secured to the mounting base in an attachment well and allow the installer to attach solar panels from the top which makes installation easy and fast. The attachment clamps have a horizontal and vertical portion that use grooves to adjustably secure the two together when in the desired location. Ballast blocks are used to provide a non-invasive installation. In an array, multiple bases are used to provide the structure to support the solar array. Installers may vary the angle the solar panels form 5 degrees to 10 degrees by selecting the appropriate connection location. |
| US09831815B2 |
Drive control device using PWM control of synchronous rectification type
A drive control device includes: a driver including a circuit and configured to drive a motor; and a controller configured to control the driver. The controller is configured to: in a period other than a stop period during driving of the motor, control the driver by a PWM control of a synchronous rectification type, the stop period lasting for a specified time or longer during the driving of the motor; and in the stop period during the driving of the motor, suspend the PWM control of the synchronous rectification type and control the driver such that the motor is set to a short-circuit brake state or a disconnected state. |
| US09831814B2 |
Electric motor drive control device, electrically driven power steering device, electrically driven brake device, and electrically driven pump device
An electric motor drive control device includes: an inverter circuit that converts DC power inputted via a DC bus to multiphase AC power and outputs the multiphase AC power to an electric motor; a current detector that detects a DC current flowing in the DC bus; a PWM generator that generates PWM signals and outputs the PWM signals to the inverter circuit; a current calculator that calculates a current value for each of phases to be flowed to the electric motor based upon a value of the DC current and the PWM signals; and a current controller that generates a command signal based upon the current value, and outputs the command signal to the PWM generator, wherein: if one of the phases of the AC power has become missing, the current calculator determines which phase is one that has become missing and calculates current values for other phases. |
| US09831813B2 |
Motor driving apparatus
A motor driving apparatus includes a boosting section, a drive voltage output section, a detecting section, a storage section and a determining section. The boosting section generates a post-boosting voltage by boosting an input voltage. The drive voltage output section generates a drive voltage to drive a motor using the post-boosting voltage. The detecting section detects a value of the input voltage or a variation width relative to a reference value of the input voltage as variation power source variation information when there is power source variation. The storage section stores target value association information associating the power source variation information and a boosting target value of the post-boosting voltage. The determining section determines the boosting target value based on the power source variation information and target value association information. The target value association information is determined based on a range of operations of the drive voltage output section. |
| US09831809B1 |
Rotor position sensing system for three phase motors and related methods
A system and method for sensing rotor position of a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) includes a controller coupled with the PMSM and causing a plurality of voltage pulses to be applied thereto. A timer and/or an analog-to-digital converter is coupled with the PMSM and measures a plurality of values (measured values) from a three-phase inverter coupled with the PMSM. Each measured value may correspond with one of the plurality of voltage pulses and includes a current value or time value corresponding with an inductance of the PMSM. One or more logic elements calculates, based on the measured values and on one or more position algorithms, a position of a rotor of the PMSM relative to a stator of the PMSM. The system is configured to calculate the position of the rotor when the rotor is in a stopped configuration and when the rotor is in a rotating configuration. |
| US09831808B1 |
Rotor position sensing system for three phase motors and related methods
A system and method for sensing rotor position of a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) includes a controller coupled with the PMSM and causing a plurality of voltage pulses to be applied thereto. A timer and/or an analog-to-digital converter is coupled with the PMSM and measures a plurality of values (measured values) from a three-phase inverter coupled with the PMSM. Each measured value may correspond with one of the plurality of voltage pulses and includes a current value or time value corresponding with an inductance of the PMSM. One or more logic elements calculates, based on the measured values and on one or more position algorithms, a position of a rotor of the PMSM relative to a stator of the PMSM. The system is configured to calculate the position of the rotor when the rotor is in a stopped configuration and when the rotor is in a rotating configuration. |
| US09831805B2 |
Method for acquiring constant torque of electronically commutated motors
A method for acquiring a constant torque of an ECM, the method including: A) acquiring a target torque value T0 input from external; B) when the motor is in a non-use state, operating the motor and acquiring an initial rotational speed rpm by the microprocessor; and when the motor is in an operating state, acquiring a current rotational speed rpm by the microprocessor; C) calculating a corresponding target bus current value Itad by the microprocessor using the function of a DC bus current Itad=F(T, rpm) according to the target torque T0 and acquired rotational speed rpm, in which T represents a torque value output by the motor; and D) comparing the target bus current Itad with a real-time bus current Ibus by the microprocessor in a closed-loop control according to the detected real-time bus current Ibus. |
| US09831803B2 |
Membrane-based nano-electromechanical systems device and methods to make and use same
Nano-electromechanical systems (NEMS) devices that utilize thin electrically conductive membranes, which can be, for example, graphene membranes. The membrane-based NEMS devices can be used as sensors, electrical relays, adjustable angle mirror devices, variable impedance devices, and devices performing other functions. |