| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07921672B2 |
Method for manufacturing GRIN lens
A method for manufacturing a GRIN lens includes the steps of forming a wet gel provided with a concentration distribution having a different concentration of a refractive index distribution imparting metal that differs in concentration in a radial direction, drying the wet gel to form a dry gel having a bulk specific gravity ρ (g/cm3), sintering the dry gel to form a GRIN lens base material and stretching the GRIN lens base material while heating. The method is characterized in that, in the step of sintering the dry gel, partial pressures of oxygen during sintering at 800° C. or higher are 10−1 Pa or lower and also the relation between a rate of temperature increase v (° C./hr) and a bulk density ρ of the dry gel during sintering at 1,000 to 1,150° C. is defined by v≦105*EXP (−12ρ). As a result of this, the GRIN lens, which has a large numerical aperture and a small diameter, can stably and easily be manufactured. |
| US07921671B2 |
Refrigerant flow divider
A refrigerant flow divider is made up of an inlet pipe 12 through which refrigerant Xin flows in, a main body 11 of which the inside is a cavity, and a plurality of branching pipes 13 through which refrigerant Xout flows out. When the length of the above described main body 11 of the flow divider is L mm and the inner diameter of the above described main body 11 of the flow divider is D2 mm, the relationship 2≦L/D2≦8 holds, and thus, a flow divider can be gained, where discrepancy (variation) in the flow rate ratio in the respective paths for the flow discharged from the outlet of the flow divider and entering the heat exchanger is small and pressure loss is small when there is a change of approximately ±10° in the installation angle, a change in the dryness of the refrigerant at the inlet (0.2 to 0.4) or a change in the flow rate of the refrigerant (50% to 100%). |
| US07921670B2 |
Refrigeration apparatus
A refrigeration apparatus is configured to perform a refrigeration cycle operation in which a high-pressure side attains a pressure that exceeds the critical pressure of a refrigerant used in the refrigeration cycle operation. The refrigeration apparatus includes a refrigerant circuit and a control unit. The refrigerant circuit has a plurality of constituent components including a compressor, a cooler, an expansion mechanism, and a heater. The control unit is operatively coupled to control at least one of the constituent components such that a quasi-subcooling degree is within a predetermined temperature range, the quasi-subcooling degree being a temperature difference between a quasi-condensation temperature and a cooler outlet refrigerant temperature, with the quasi-condensation temperature being the refrigerant temperature at which isobaric specific heat capacity of the refrigerant at the refrigerant pressure on the high-pressure side of the refrigeration cycle is at a maximum. |
| US07921667B2 |
Refrigerator and/or freezer comprising an ice-cube maker
The present invention relates to a refrigerator and/or freezer comprising an ice-cube maker with an ice-cube tray and with means by which the ice-cube tray can be moved out of its operating position into a cleaning position, wherein the refrigerator and/or freezer has a replication unit by means of which an option relating to the cleaning of the ice-cube tray can be replicated; wherein a selection unit is provided by means of which the replicated option can be selected; and wherein a control is provided by means of which the means of moving the ice-cube tray out of its operating position into a cleaning position are activated after selection of the option. |
| US07921665B2 |
Air conditioning equipment, signal transmission method, and signal transmission method for air conditioning equipment
An air conditioning equipment having an in-room unit connected to one end of the refrigerant pipes and an out-room unit connected to the other end of the refrigerant pipes. The air conditioning equipment includes signal coupling portions which are respectively disposed at both end parts of the refrigerant pipes. Each of the signal coupling portions couples an alternating current (AC) control signal to the refrigerant pipes and exhibits a predetermined impedance with respect to an AC electric signal. The configuration of the air conditioning equipment brings forth the advantages that the electrical insulation devices used in the prior art are dispensed with, and the signal transmissions between the in-room unit and the out-room unit can be performed by a simple apparatus configuration. |
| US07921664B2 |
Method and apparatus for high heat flux heat transfer
The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for high heat flux heat transfer. The subject invention can be utilized to transfer heat from a heat source to a coolant such that the transferred heat can be effectively transported to another location. Examples of heat sources from which heat can be transferred from include, for example, fluids and surfaces. The coolant to which the heat is transferred can be sprayed onto a surface which is in thermal contact with the heat source, such that the coolant sprayed onto the surface in thermal contact with the heat absorbs heat from the surface and carries the absorbed heat away as the coolant leaves the surface. The surface can be, for example, the surface of an interface plate in thermal contact with the heat source or a surface integral with the heat source. The coolant sprayed onto the surface can initially be a liquid and remain a liquid after absorbing the heat, or can in part or in whole be converted to a gas or vapor after absorbing the heat. The coolant can be sprayed onto the surface, for example, as a stream of liquid after being atomized, or in other ways which allow the coolant to contact the surface and absorb heat. Once the heat is absorbed by the coolant, the coolant can be transported to another location so as to transport the absorbed heat as well. |
| US07921663B2 |
Heat pipe heat sink
A heat sink (1), has heat pipes (3) which are disposed in a high temperature section (A) of a base plate (2) on which a heating element (4) is disposed so that the heat pipes (3) extend from the high temperature section (A) to low temperature sections (B) in different directions. |
| US07921659B2 |
Transport refrigeration system
Self-contained refrigeration units include evaporator modules, condenser modules, compressor modules, control subassemblies, and all other refrigeration components in compact interconnected modular packages. The modules, which are assembled in rigid or flexible self-contained monoblock refrigeration units, are installable, removable and replaceable as complete self-contained refrigeration units without requiring transport downtime for servicing and repairing of the refrigeration units. Vehicles with refrigeration systems arrive at a distributor and have malfunctioning units removed and complete units replaced and installed and are back on the road within minutes. Dealers' inventories are small and non complex and dealers' workers need not be skilled transport refrigeration mechanics. Dealer trucks have light cranes to remove and replace complete self-contained refrigeration units on site. |
| US07921657B2 |
Methods and systems for cryogenic cooling
Methods and systems are provided for cooling an object with a cryogen having a critical point defined by a critical-point pressure and a critical-point temperature. A pressure of the cryogen is raised above a pressure value determined to provide the cryogen at a reduced molar volume that prevents vapor lock. Thereafter, the cryogen is placed in thermal communication with the object to increase a temperature of the cryogen along a thermodynamic path that maintains the pressure greater than the critical-point pressure for a duration that the cryogen and object are in thermal communication. |
| US07921656B2 |
Equipment and process for liquefaction of LNG boiloff gas
A design for equipment and process for reliquefaction of LNG boiloff gas, primarily for shipboard installation, has high thermodynamic efficiency and lower capital cost, smaller size (volume, footprint), lower weight, and less need for maintenance than systems utilizing the prior art. The main refrigerant gas compressor is reduced to a single stage turbocompressor. Optional elements include: compression of boiloff gas at ambient temperature; compression of boiloff gas in one or two stages; turboexpansion of refrigerant gas incorporating one or two turboexpanders; turboexpander energy recovery by mechanical loading, compressor drive, or electric generator; refrigerant sidestream for cooling at the lowest temperatures. |
| US07921650B2 |
Fuel spraying apparatus of gas turbine engine
A fuel spraying apparatus of a gas turbine engine includes a first fuel spraying section configured to spray fuel for diffusion combustion and a second fuel spraying section configured to spray fuel for premixed combustion. The second fuel spraying section is disposed so as to surround the first fuel spraying section. The apparatus further includes an air curtain generating section disposed between the first fuel spraying section and the second fuel spraying section. The air curtain generating section is configured to generate an air curtain which defines an outer edge of a diffusion combustion area in a combustion chamber. |
| US07921648B2 |
Exhaust gas turbocharger internal combustion engine
An exhaust gas turbocharger internal combustion engine is disclosed including at least one cylinder in a fuel-air mixture is pre-compressed by a compressor and compressed and burned. Exhaust gas is evacuated from the cylinder and released in a turbine, wherein part of the evacuated exhaust gas is recirculated before being released in the turbine, via a high-pressure recirculation system including an exhaust gas cooling device including at least two cooling circuits guided through heat exchanging blocks successively connected in the flow direction of the exhaust gas. The heat exchanging block arranged furthest downstream in the flow direction of the exhaust gas is vertically arranged such that exhaust gas passes through the block parallel to the working line, wherein a condensate collection and/or evacuation device is provided on the lower end of the block. |
| US07921645B2 |
Corrugated thermal actuator
A thermal actuator for micro mechanical or micro electro-mechanical devices comprises a supporting substrate; an actuator extension portion; an anchor block extending from the substrate; a first group of at least two elongate corrugated arms attached at a first end thereof to a heating circuit at the anchor block and at a second end to the extension portion, the first group being arranged to be conductively heated through connection to the heating circuit; and a second group of at least two elongate corrugated arms attached at a first end to the anchor block and at a second end to the extension portion, the second group not being connected to a heating circuit and being spaced apart from the first group. The first edge of the at least two elongate corrugated arms of the first group and a first edge of the at least two elongate corrugated arms of the second group are in a common plane. |
| US07921641B2 |
Arrangement and method for delivering hydraulic fluid in a work vehicle
An arrangement for delivering hydraulic fluid to at least one hydraulic actuator of a work vehicle for moving a work implement and/or steering the vehicle includes at least two pumps which are adapted to be operatively driven by a power source and adapted to operatively drive said at least one hydraulic actuator via hydraulic fluid. A first pump is operated with a phase shift relative to a second pump. |
| US07921640B2 |
Exhaust gas waste heat recovery
An exhaust heat recovery heat exchanger assembly for use along a main exhaust flow path of an exhaust system for an engine, and a method of operation, is disclosed. The exhaust heat recovery heat exchanger includes a sealed vacuum chamber, including a hydride pellet mounted in the chamber, and electrical leads extending from the hydride pellet. An exhaust chamber along the main exhaust flow path is located along an inner wall of the vacuum chamber. A housing surrounds the vacuum chamber and defines a heat receiving medium chamber. A heat receiving medium flows through the heat receiving medium chamber and absorbs heat from the exhaust flowing through the exhaust chamber when an electric current is applied to the hydride pellet. |
| US07921638B2 |
Bi-propellant rocket motor having controlled thermal management
A bi-propellant rocket motor having controlled thermal management is disclosed. The rocket motor produces thrust using a solid or gel-phase primary propellant that can be either fuel- or oxidizer-rich, with a complementary self-pressurizing secondary propellant selected to balance the primary propellant in terms of the equivalence ratio. The motor houses multiple propellant grains arranged in such a configuration that each chamber containing a primary grain serves as both propellant storage and the main combustion chamber for that propellant grain as it burns with the secondary propellant. The secondary propellant is stored separately, and the flow routed past the primary propellant chamber to provide cooling for adjacent primary propellant chambers limiting the temperature rise in the motor structure. |
| US07921633B2 |
System and method employing direct gasification for power generation
A power generation system (10) and method of operating a power generation system (10). An exemplary power generation system (10) shown in FIG. 1 includes a gasification system (2) for generating a supply (33) of a first gas comprising hydrogen and a supply (39) of a second gas comprising carbon monoxide based on a chemical breakdown of hydrocarbons in a melt (17). A component system (3) produces a supply of steam (99) by reacting one of the streams of gas and a steam turbine (120) generates mechanical power by expanding the steam (99). In an associated method, a melt (17) is created in a gasifier (12) which then receives a hydrocarbon source (22) to generate a continuous supply (33) of a first gas comprising hydrogen while increasing concentration of dissolved carbon in the melt (17). Hydrogen present in the first gas is supplied to a first combustor (90). A continuous supply (39) of a second gas comprising carbon monoxide is generated with carbon present in the melt (17). Carbon monoxide present in the second gas is supplied to a second combustor (80). |
| US07921631B2 |
Method of recovering energy from a fluid catalytic cracking unit for overall carbon dioxide reduction
In at least one embodiment of the present invention, a method of recovering energy from a FCC unit having a reactor and a regenerator for overall CO2 reduction is provided. The method comprises cooling syngas to a predetermined low temperature to define cooled syngas. A turbo-expander including a first compressor is provided. The turbo-expander train is configured to combust and expand gas to drive the first compressor. The cooled syngas is compressed with the first compressor to define compressed syngas. A first stream of gas comprising CO2 and a second stream of gas comprising CO are separated from the compressed syngas. O2 and the first and second streams of gas are introduced to the turbo-expander train. The first stream of gas is expanded and the second stream of gas is combusted and expanded with the O2 to recover energy, driving the first compressor and producing the syngas. |
| US07921630B2 |
Method for optimizing the transport of a multiaxial contexture during production
A method for producing a multiaxial contexture, preferably from carbon fibers, in which a mono-axial contexture is wound from at least one storage device about a winding plane, wherein the winding plane and the at least one storage device rotate about one another, in order to wind the mono-axial contexture about the winding plane, wherein the winding plane. In order to avoid distortions or twisting of the particular fibers of a mono-axial contexture, a slanted orientation of the longitudinal axis of the winding plane with reference to the direction of gravity is proposed. |
| US07921629B2 |
Method for improving the transport of multiaxial contexture during production
A method for producing a multiaxial contexture, from fiber materials, winds mono-axial contexture from at least one storage device about a winding plane, wherein the winding plane and the at least one storage device rotate about one another, in order to wind the mono-axial contexture about the winding plane. In order to prevent twisting the mono-axial contextures and to facilitate pulling it off from the winding plane, a vibration drive is proposed, which imparts mechanical vibrations onto the winding plane. |
| US07921627B2 |
Interlocking belt guards for a draper header
A harvesting machine includes a harvesting header with a header frame, a cutterbar assembly attached to the header frame along the length thereof and configured to cut a crop, and a draper assembly positioned behind the cutterbar assembly and operable to receive severed crop material from the cutterbar assembly. The draper assembly includes a center draper that delivers crop material to a feeder house of the harvesting machine and oppositely spaced side drapers that deliver crop material to the center draper. The harvesting header is operable to flex and thereby follow an uneven terrain. |
| US07921626B2 |
Apparatus and method for controlling the speed of a combine harvester
Apparatus for controlling the speed of a combine harvester (10) includes one or more sensors (48) each generating one or more signals that correspond during use of the combine harvester to variables of a harvesting process. The apparatus further includes a processor and one or more control devices operatively connected in a feedback arrangement including two loops. In a first loop, a first signal (28) corresponding to the ground speed of the combine harvester (10) is fed back as an input to a first control device (42) that is capable of adjusting the ground speed relative to a set value. In a second loop, the first signal (28) is fed together with a second signal (34) indicative of the flow rate of crop through the combine harvester to a second control device (32) that generates as a third signal (31) the set value, the third signal being input to the first control device (42). |
| US07921624B2 |
Unitary transporter base and shaper and slip frame former for forming a transportable container
The present invention relates to a method of producing a transportable container for bulk goods. A bag is placed through a former opening of a slip frame former which surrounds a portion of the bag. The bag receives the bulk goods from a feed source. A stretch wrap is disposed radially about a bottom support and a portion of the slip frame former to initially form the transportable container. At least one of the slip frame former and the bottom support moves relative to other in response to the fill level of the bulk goods in the bag. During filling, the slip frame former is maintained at a position surrounding the fill level of the bulk goods in the bag. As the fill level increases in the bag, previously disposed portions of stretch wrap are disengaged from the slip frame former to squeeze the filled portions of the bag and lock together the bulk goods as additional portions of stretch wrap are disposed around the slip frame former. |
| US07921622B2 |
Machine for wrapping groups of cigarettes in packets
In a cigarette packer, groups of single cigarettes are first assembled by a formation unit and placed in trays carried by a conveyor, then directed in succession along a set feed path, advancing sideways-on, toward a wrapping unit by which each one is enveloped in a transparent or at least partly transparent wrapper; during the transfer from the formation unit to the wrapping unit, the trays are directed past a print unit stationed along the feed path, by which at least one graphic element such as lettering or a logo is impressed on at least one cigarette making up each group. |
| US07921620B2 |
Method of framing a wall penetration
A method of affixing a frame around a wall penetration such as a window box before siding panels are affixed to the wall. The frame has front and back faces and inner and outer edges, a primary channel extending along the outer edge, and a flange extending along the outer edge, The steps include: placing the window frame around the window box; affixing the flange to the wall; placing a first panel against the wall and inserting a vertical edge of the first panel into a primary channel of the frame; affixing the first panel to the wall; inserting a vertical edge of a second panel into the primary channel and engaging a longitudinal edge of the second panel with a longitudinal edge of the first panel; affixing the second panel to the wall; and repeating steps until the all sides of the frame engage siding panels. |
| US07921613B2 |
Terraced structured land joint and assembly system
Terraced structured land joint and assembly system is disclosed, and includes a plurality of ball joints, each providing monolithic anchors for a plurality of compression and tension members. Tension members reside within compression members. Compression/tension members are linked between ball joints by couplers and turnbuckles, defining structured land including planar space frames, horizontal truss members, and vertical truss members. Structural forces are transferred through the ball joints into horizontal and vertical truss members, with resultant loads transferred to the ground. |
| US07921612B2 |
Method and device for supporting a structure
A method and device for supporting a structure above a fixed surface. The device can include a support pedestal whose height is adjustable through a range of heights without a substantial gap in the obtainable heights. |
| US07921610B2 |
System, method, and apparatus for frame assembly and building
An A-frame assembly for constructing a building comprises only five major components that are formed from square, galvanized steel hollow tubing. These components include corner braces, side braces, a top brace, beams, and straight tubing. The straight tubing interconnects the other components to form a triangular frame assembly. The corner braces are secured with concrete footings or a complete foundation. A number of the frame assemblies are arrayed to form the basis of a structure. The frame assemblies are spaced apart from each other, joined with additional square tubing, and include an attic space and service spaces between the corner braces. A roofing structure is secured to the joined frame assemblies to complete the structural phase of the assembly. |
| US07921604B2 |
Storm proof aluma-foam housing unit
An aluminum-foam structural housing unit that is storm-proof, self-contained, and built to withstand natural disaster conditions resulting from hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and fire, and then assist its inhabitants immediately thereafter when interruptions in public utility system service can be experienced. The combined use of aluminum alloy and foam as its building materials gives the unit its great strength, as well as the versatility needed to face natural disaster conditions while providing absolute resistance to heavy winds, flooding, earthquake and fire. Since the unit is buoyant, during flooding conditions it lifts from the ground and is guided by vertical poles to maintain a horizontal orientation. The unit also automatically disconnects from public utility systems as lifting occurs, and it then provides its inhabitants with self-contained sources of water, electrical energy, and sewage management. Thus, the unit is designed to adjust to the flow of nature, instead of working against it. |
| US07921603B2 |
Systems for a fire-resistant door jamb
A fire-resistant door jamb system may incorporate wood components, fire-resistant material, intumescent material and may include a bracket set including an L-shaped fixed bracket for installing a door jamb assembly in a wall. |
| US07921601B2 |
Water amusement system with trees
A water amusement system may include a composite tree and an elevated structure. A composite tree may include a base having an artificial trunk portion. The base may be coupled to a surface. Living plants may be coupled to the base. Portions of the living plants may form branches of the composite tree. In some embodiments, the living plants are living trees. The water amusement system may include a water amusement ride coupled to the base. The water amusement ride may include an access point configured to allow participants to access the water amusement ride from the structure. The access point may be positioned adjacent to the base. |
| US07921595B1 |
Floating biomass producing system
A water based biomass producing system that is disposed in a body of water, for example a freshwater lake or a sea, and is capable of producing a biomass that can be converted into a biofuel. The system relies on a pool of freshwater that is suspended in the body of water to grow the biomass. The pool is contained within a flexible polymeric membrane that is impermeable to the water of the body of water. The membrane is suspended in the body of water by a float. A filtration system is connected to the float that has an inlet that is for introduction of water from the body of water and an outlet that is for discharging freshwater into the pool. A biomass extractor is provided to harvest the biomass from the freshwater pool. The harvested biomass can then be converted into a biofuel. |
| US07921593B2 |
Rodent trap having a snare
A trap having a housing, and a snare pivotally joined with the housing. The trap has an opening that provides a passageway for a rodent to enter the housing. The snare may pivot between a first position and a second position. In the first position, a rodent may enter the housing and position itself at least partially in the snare. A trigger is located inside the housing, so that when the trigger is triggered by a rodent, the snare pivots to its second position, snaring at least a portion of the rodent in the snare, and trapping against the housing. |
| US07921590B2 |
Composite firearm barrel reinforcement
A chamber reinforcement for composite firearm barrel and method for forming the same. In one embodiment, the barrel includes an inner tube defining a bore that provides a bullet path and an outer sleeve preferably made of a material lighter in weight than the tube. In some embodiments, the inner tube is made of a material that preferably has a greater density and strength than the outer sleeve. The reinforcement in one embodiment may be in the form of an end cap disposed on a portion of the sleeve. The reinforcement preferably is made of a material comparable to the inner tube in density and strength to reinforce the area where a chamber is formed for receiving a cartridge. In the preferred fabrication, the reinforcement, tube, and sleeve are forged together to provide a strong and unitary structure for withstanding combustion pressures and forces associated with discharging the firearm. |
| US07921589B1 |
Single action firearm action
A new firearm action is described. The action may be adapted to single-shot handguns and rifles, lever-action firearms, single-action revolvers or to other types of firearms. The new firearm action provides a safety device in a firearm that does not affect the trigger pull when firing the firearm and maintains a durable and reliable action. The trigger cannot be pulled when it is in the safe position, and when the action is in the safe position, the hammer cannot contact the firing pin. The action does not allow the barrel of the firearm to be opened when the hammer is in the cocked position. It also keeps the barrel from being closed if the hammer is cocked when the barrel is in the open position. The hammer cannot contact the firing pin if the top slide is in the retracted position. |
| US07921588B2 |
Safeguard system for ensuring device operation in conformance with governing laws
A safeguard system ensures device operation in conformance with governing laws for devices such as directed energy weapons or surveillance systems, whose misuse may discomfort, harm or otherwise violate the legal rights of a person. A legal protocol is defined by rules embodying the laws that govern the use of the device and requires as inputs an authorization to use the device and input condition(s) relating to at least one of a use of the device, an attribute of a human target of the device and an operational environment of the device and human target. The safeguard system applies the rules to the authorization and input condition(s) to generate a control signal that ensures the device is used in conformance with the legal protocol. A documentation system records the authorization, input condition(s) applied rules, and control signal. |
| US07921584B2 |
Kinetic sculptural system and assembly of interconnected modules
The kinetic sculptural system of interconnected modules has multiple configurable positions (e.g., square or sphere). One system has a central coupler and eight struts each with a pivot element at its distal end. Modules move on the struts radially and rotate 180 degrees in a slotted radial passageway. The slot and radial channel are coextensive. To configure the system, modules are moved outboard, then rotated 180 degrees, the moved inboard as a toy or puzzle or object of art. The kinetic sculptural system can be configured with n struts wherein n is greater than 1 and the central coupler rests upon an imaginary ground plane (such as a hemispheric central coupler rising above a ground plane). Each movable module has a complementary first and second inboard shape and the module shapes complement each other to form a compressed first and second shape. |
| US07921583B2 |
Label sleeve for medication dosage reminder and confirmation systems
A medication dosage reminder and confirmation sleeve apparatus and associated method for use in connection with a medicine container, comprising: a sleeve material, comprising a closed surface with a circumference substantially equal to a circumference of the medicine container with which the apparatus is to be used, wherein the sleeve material will conform to a shape of, and fit snugly upon, the medicine container, when placed over at least part of the medicine container; and affixed to the sleeve material, at least one tearable dosage reminder and confirmation sheet comprising a plurality of dosage tabs; wherein: when one of the dosage tabs is removed from the dosage reminder and confirmation sheet, a residue remains attached to the dosage reminder and confirmation sheet to indicate that the dose associated with the removed tab has been consumed; and the sleeve material in combination with the at least one tearable dosage reminder and confirmation sheet can, at will, be attached to, removed from, and adjusted upon the medicine container. |
| US07921582B2 |
Information organization product and method
A method wherein an indicia is selected from one of diverse indicia sources. A holder may be selected from a holder source, and a display is selected from a display source. The indicia is placed in the display or the indicia and holder unit are placed in the display such that the desired information is displayed. The flap portions of the display are manipulated to expose or conceal releasable. reusable adhesive portions. An easel insert or easel attachment allows for a standing position on a counter top or table. |
| US07921577B2 |
Method and apparatus for drying sprinkler piping networks
A sprinkler system and a method for mitigating scaling, microbiological influenced corrosion and oxidative corrosion are disclosed. The system includes a piping network in fluid communication with a source of pressurized water and an air pump. The network is vented to the ambient. The air pump moves initially dry ambient air through the system, either by maintaining a negative or a positive air pressure within the network. The dry air absorbs residual water within the network and exhausts it to the ambient. Rate of air flow through the system is controlled by restrictor elements such as orifices, throttle valves or venturies within the piping network. |
| US07921574B2 |
Ruler with safety shield
A tool for aiding marking or cutting is described. A V-shaped member having an edge formed at an exterior apex of the V for guiding a marker or cutting tool. The exterior surfaces of the V-shaped member may have a material applied having a higher coefficient of friction than that of the V-shaped member. The edge at the apex of the V may have two substantially planar surfaces, each of which forms a complimentary angle with the interior apex angle of the V, or a thin metal portion formed in the exterior apex of the V so that an edge thereof protrudes sloping towards a surface on which the tool is laid. A graduated scale may be applied to an exterior surface of the tool at a location near the apex. |
| US07921573B1 |
Monitoring verticality of a sinking caisson
A method of monitoring verticality of a sinking caisson having a tip. A pole is inserted into the earth to a pole depth substantially corresponding to a desired final depth of the caisson tip, one or more levels are coupled to the pole, and an elevation of the levels(s) is established. Scales are carried on an interior surface of the caisson in spaced circumferential locations and in reference to the caisson tip, and the level(s) is applied to the scales to indicate heights from the caisson tip corresponding to the circumferential locations of the scales. Tip elevations corresponding to the circumferential locations of the scales are determined by subtracting the indicated heights from the established elevation of the level(s). Any tilt of the caisson is calculated from any differences among the determined tip elevations. |
| US07921572B2 |
Accuracy indications for an electronic compass in a portable device
Multiple instances of a geomagnetic field are calculated. Multiple instances of an average magnitude of a subset of the instances of the geomagnetic field are also calculated. When the average magnitude changes by more than a first predetermined threshold, the user is informed that compass accuracy has degraded. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. |
| US07921569B2 |
Tool assembly apparatus having a recessed tip and a method for its use
A tool assembly is disclosed that provides reciprocating motion to a tip of the assembly. The tool assembly has a drive assembly, a shaft assembly and a retraction mechanism contained within a housing. The tip of the shaft assembly protrudes from the housing during a portion of the stroke of the drive mechanism and upon disengagement of a motor of the drive assembly, the tip of the shaft assembly is recessed within the housing of the tool assembly. |
| US07921566B2 |
Hair trimmer
A hair trimmer includes a main body, a cutter block and a comb attachment. The cutter block has a stationary blade and a movable blade, both of which are comb-shaped and are slidably in contact with each other. In addition, the cutter block is protrudingly installed at one end of the main body. The comb attachment has a plurality of comb tooth-shaped sections and covers the cutter block. The comb tooth-shaped sections are provided with cut-off hair deflectors to prevent hairs cut by the cutter block from outwardly scattering away from the comb attachment. Furthermore, cut-off hair deflectors located between two neighboring comb tooth-shaped sections are disposed at relatively inner and outer positions. |
| US07921564B2 |
Method of assembling a crossbar with a dashboard, and a centering device
The invention concerns the assembly of a cross-member and an instrument panel. The invention concerns an assembly method including assembling a ventilation element (40, 42) on a cross-member (26, 28), and assembling the panel instrument on the cross-member (26, 28) such that a centering device penetrates into the orifice. The method includes: prior to assembling the ventilation elements (40, 42) on the cross-member (26, 28), arranging thereon a base (10) of the centering device of reduced height so that it does not obstruct the assembling of the ventilation elements (40, 42), and, prior to assembling the instrument panel on the cross-member (26, 28), arranging, on the base (10), a body of the centering device. The invention is applicable to motor vehicle cockpits. |
| US07921563B2 |
Method of making grille badge
An example grille badge includes an outer member and an inner member configured to be snapped together. The inner member includes a living hinge to facilitate the connection to the outer member. The inner member is at least initially inserted into the outer member in a bent position, the inner member being bent or snapped into place via the living hinge provided thereto during manufacturing and/or assembly. In certain example embodiments, the outer element includes at least one slot for receiving at least one corresponding tab provided to the inner element. In certain example embodiments, the inner and outer members include corresponding snap features for securing the connection therebetween. An assembled grille badge may be connected, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle (e.g., to the vehicle, to a front-end assembly, to a grille, etc.), for example, using one or more snap features. |
| US07921562B2 |
Welding method and steel plate deck
A method of welding a deck plate and a closed section rib both constituting a steel plate deck, comprising: working a root portion of the closed section rib to have a flat surface in parallel with a surface of the deck plate; and welding the deck plate and the closed section rib while making the flat surface of the closed section rib to be in contact with the surface of the deck plate. |
| US07921559B2 |
Flat tube, flat tube heat exchanger, and method of manufacturing same
A number of flat tubes, flat tube heat exchangers, and methods of manufacturing both are described and illustrated. The flat tubes can be constructed of one, two, or more pieces of sheet material. A profiled insert integral with the flat tube or constructed from another sheet of material can be used to define multiple flow channels through the flat tube. The flat tubes can be constructed of relatively thin material, and can be reinforced with folds of the flat tube material and/or of an insert in areas subject to higher pressure and thermal stresses. Also, the relatively thin flat tube material can have a corrosion layer enabling the material to resist failure due to corrosion. Heat exchangers having such flat tubes connected to collection tubes are also disclosed, as are manners in which such tubes can be provided with fins. |
| US07921558B2 |
Non-cylindrical refrigerant conduit and method of making same
A heat exchanger assembly includes an outlet header extending along an outlet axis to define an outlet cavity and an inlet header defining an inlet cavity. A plurality of refrigerant tubes extends from the inlet header through the outlet header and into the outlet cavity. A collector conduit having a generally semi-circular conduit cross-section defining an arced surface and a chord surface interconnected with rounded ends is disposed in the outlet header and includes a conduit body portion and at least one conduit end portion interconnected by a conduit transition portion with the conduit body portion being offset from the conduit end portion. The conduit body portion is engaged to an interior surface of the outlet header to space the conduit body portion from the refrigerant tubes and the conduit end portion is coaxial with the outlet header axis to provide a central outlet for the refrigerant vapor. |
| US07921554B2 |
Method for manufacturing a medical electrical lead connector ring
A method of manufacturing a medical electrical device is presented. An inner diameter and an outer diameter of a connector ring is machined to form a first and a second flange extending from the inner diameter. An electric discharge machining wire burner is used to form a conductor channel in the inner diameter of the connector ring. A conductor is positioned within the conductor channel. A first distal end of the first flange is coupled to a second distal end of the second flange. |
| US07921553B2 |
Method of making a customized wireless communication device
A method of making a customized wireless communication device (100) is disclosed. It can include the steps of: inputting (110) customer requirements; generating (120) a checklist of customer requirements; providing (130) an extruded housing with an opening defining a pocket configured to receive electrical components; and removing (140) material from the extruded housing to form an industrial design having at least one receptacle integral to the extruded housing to receive an antenna module and display module. The method is adapted to allow a designer to customize the look and feel of an electronic device, such as wireless communication device. This method is attractive to a customer. |
| US07921551B2 |
Electronic component mounting method
An electronic component mounting method includes a step of applying a resin composition (3) including solder powder, convective additive and resin having fluidity at the melting temperature of the solder powder on a main surface of a wiring substrate (1) provided with conductive wirings and connecting terminals, a step of preparing a group of electronic components consisting of a plurality of electronic components (7, 8 and 9) including at least a passive component, the respective electronic components comprising electrode terminals, position-aligning connecting terminals with the electrode terminals, and making the group of electronic components abut a surface of the resin composition, a step of heating at least the resin composition so as to melt solder powder and make the solder powder self-assembled between the connecting terminals and the electrode terminals by the convective additive, and thereby connecting the connecting terminals and the electrode terminals by soldering, and a step of fixedly adhering the group of electronic components to the wiring substrate using the resin by hardening the resin in the resin composition. Accordingly, a mounting process can be remarkably simplified without forming bumps in advance. |
| US07921548B2 |
Method of manufacturing a heater retention spring
A method of manufacturing a heater having a heating element, an insulator and a spring is disclosed. The method includes forming a spring from an annealed superalloy material, heat treating the spring after forming, positioning the heating element in contact with the insulator, and biasedly engaging the spring with the insulator to maintain contact between the insulator and the heating element. |
| US07921547B2 |
Method of magnetizing permanent magnet for a motor
In a method for magnetizing a permanent magnet for a motor, the permanent magnet has a thickness t in a radial direction of the permanent magnet satisfying the relation of t≦πD/(NM−π), where D represents an inner diameter of the permanent magnet having a value of 20 mm or less, N represents the number of the magnetic domains of the permanent magnet, and M represents the number of alternating current phases for driving the motor. In a first magnetizing step, the permanent magnet is magnetized in one direction corresponding to the radial direction. In a second magnetizing step, the permanent magnet magnetized in the first magnetizing step is magnetized to form inverse magnetic domains that are arranged at regular intervals in the radial direction and that reverse the magnetizing direction of the permanent magnet. |
| US07921541B2 |
Method for forming an electroactive polymer transducer
The present invention provides electroactive polymers, transducers and devices that maintain pre-strain in one or more portions of an electroactive polymer. Electroactive polymers described herein may include a pre-strained portion and a stiffened portion configured to maintain pre-strain in the pre-strained portion. One fabrication technique applies pre-strain to a partially cured electroactive polymer. The partially cured polymer is then further cured to stiffen and maintain the pre-strain. In another fabrication technique, a support layer is coupled to the polymer that maintains pre-strain in a portion of an electroactive polymer. Another embodiment of the invention cures a polymer precursor to maintain pre-strain in an electroactive polymer. |
| US07921535B2 |
Method of setting up a machine for die cutting
A method for improving die-cutting involving first creating a back plate footprint, possessing impressions of the imperfections found in the cutting surface of a die-cutting machine. This method provides die-cutters a simple, inexpensive way to dramatically improve the alignment of die-cutting knives for making cuts. The method uses a malleable material that will readily receive an impression of imperfections of a cutting surface when some pressure is provided, but the material must also be capable of hardening into a useable solid material. The principles of this method may be applied to all die-cutting machines by making a back plate footprint of the die-cutter in question and by properly inserting it back into the chase where the impressions contained therein will press down on the material below it so as to better align the cutting knives of the die being used. |
| US07921531B2 |
Pneumatic battering ram and method therefor
A pneumatic battering ram is disclosed. The battering ram has a housing, a pressurized air tank, a ramming head, and a pivotable ramming edge. Air released from the air tank into the housing forces the ramming head outward against an enclosure to forcibly open it. Where a slug is inserted into the housing, air released from the pressurized air tank into the housing causes the slug to hit the inner surface of the ramming head, forcing it outwardly against the enclosure. |
| US07921530B2 |
Low swage load fastening system and method
A fastener installation tool including an anvil member having a swage cavity, a collet having a pull section with a fastener engagement end and a plurality of teeth, and an anvil member. The plurality of teeth includes a first tooth with a first inner diameter, and each of the remainder of teeth includes a second inner diameter, the first inner diameter being greater than the second inner diameter. The collet has a protrusion extending the length of the pull section to increase the contact area with the anvil member. The anvil member includes a swage cavity with an entrance section, a swage land located adjacent to the entrance section, and an inner bore located adjacent to the swage land. |
| US07921527B2 |
Towel clip
A towel clip for securing a towel around the waist of a user, the towel clip typically including a body. The body has a longitudinal axis, and an inner and outer surface. The body has a first leg and a second leg and a bridge section. The bridge section is typically semicircular and the first leg and second extend outward therefrom. An embodiment of Applicant's towel clip includes a convex upper rail located on the inner surface of the first leg and a pair of convex lower rails spaced apart on the lower legs and extending upward from the inner surface of the lower leg. The bridge section is resilient and the legs will spread apart to exert pressure on a folded towel to secure the same. |
| US07921524B2 |
Release mechanism for releasing magnetically releasable anti-theft devices
The present invention describes a release mechanism (1) for releasing magnetically releasable anti-theft devices consisting of a multiplicity of permanent magnets in the form of a Halbach array, which are disposed on a plane. While the highly magnetised top side (10) of the release mechanism (1) is covered by the cover plate (6) on the release side, a base plate (5) used for mounting or support is located on the underside (11) of the release mechanism (1). The permanent magnets encompass a continuous, self-contained frame magnet (2), which is magnetised in an axial direction and has a first recess. Inserted in this first recess is a segmented magnet (3), wherein the individual segments are magnetised perpendicularly to the magnetization direction of the frame magnet (2) and a second recess is left open, in which an axially magnetised magnetic core (4) is inserted. |
| US07921519B2 |
Apparatus for the fibre-sorting or fibre-selection of a fibre bundle comprising textile fibres, especially for combing
In an apparatus for the fiber-sorting or fiber-selection of a fiber bundle comprising textile fibers, especially for combing, which is supplied by a supply device to a fiber-sorting device, especially a combing device, having clamping devices which clamp the fiber bundle at a distance from its free end, which is combed to remove non-clamped constituents, the clamping devices each comprise two clamping jaws. To increase productivity and to enable an improved combed sliver to be obtained, downstream of the supply device there are arranged at least two rotatably mounted rollers rotating rapidly without interruption, the clamping devices being spaced apart in the region of the periphery of the rollers, and the clamping jaws of the each clamping device are arranged to be movable in relation to one another and separately drivable. |
| US07921515B2 |
Hinge and collapsible device utilizing the same
A hinge includes a first connecting member, a shaft, a second connecting member, a first fixing member rotatably mounted to the shaft, a ring immovable fixed to the shaft and abutting against the first fixing member, a number of biasing members all rotationally mounted to the shaft, and a fastener. The shaft extends from the first connecting member, with a threaded distal end of the shaft engaging with the fastener. The second connecting member defines a first depressed portion, a through hole transversely passing through the first depressed portion for rotationally fitting about the shaft, and a fixing slot in a first end of the second connecting member. The first fixing member is received in the first depressed portion, and a fixing protrusion extends from the first fixing member for engaging with the fixing slot. |
| US07921513B2 |
Hinge assembly
A hinge assembly includes a first plate member having a ball and a stem connected to the ball. A second plate member has a socket retainer for receiving and securing the ball therein. The second plate member has a channel formed therein for receiving the stem. |
| US07921511B2 |
Door closer
A door closer comprises a spindle journaled in a housing and connected to turn with a door. Upon rotation of the spindle, a cam carried by the spindle effects linear movement of a slide assembly relative to the housing. A piston is connected with the slide assembly. Passages are provided in the housing to permit flow of fluid in the housing in response to movement of the piston. A spring assembly disposed outside of the housing is connected to the piston. Rotation of the spindle and cam during door opening moves the slide assembly, thereby compressing the spring assembly for storing energy for urging the piston and the slide assembly in the opposite door closing direction. |
| US07921505B1 |
Collapsible broom and dustpan
A collapsible broom and dustpan provide convenient, compact storage for use in RVs, mobile homes, efficiency apartments and the like with limited closet and storage space. The broom includes a standard telescoping handle which is affixed to a pivot joint on the broom head. The handle can be extended and rotated to a variety of selected angles. Tabs on the locking member within the pivot joint engage the handle girdle which surrounds the locking member. The locking member is spring loaded to maintain the handle at a desired position. The dustpan includes a handgrip which will accommodate the broom handle while the dustpan tray receives the broom head for compact storage. C-shaped clamps within the grip and a catch within the dustpan tray hold the broom within the dustpan until manually released therefrom. |
| US07921503B1 |
Structure of windshield wiper
A windshield wiper includes a blade assembly, which has a primary frame member having opposite ends to which secondary frame members are respectively connected. The primary frame member forms a central opening delimited by two side walls. A retain carrying a positioning bar is received in the opening. An arm coupler is received in the opening and has an inner wall section and an outer wall section through which mounting holes are defined. Fixing pawls extend downward from the inner wall section to engage the retainer for fixing the arm coupler. The mounting holes serve to couple to a wiper arm of a vehicle for driving reciprocal motion of the windshield wiper. The arm coupler can be mounted to the primary frame member in different directions so that the windshield wiper is suitable for both left hand drive vehicles and right hand drive vehicles. |
| US07921501B2 |
Eraser for blackboard
An eraser includes a housing (20) having a receiving chamber (21), a collection zone (23) and a plurality of reinforcing ribs (26), a mounting board (30) mounted on the housing, a cleaning member (40) mounted on the mounting board, a support bracket (50) mounted on the housing, a door (60) removably mounted on the housing to cover the collection zone, a hollow separation member (70) mounted in the housing to separate the receiving chamber from the collection zone, and a control valve (80) movable to open the separation member so as to connect the receiving chamber with the collection zone or to close the separation member so as to interrupt a connection between the receiving chamber and the collection zone, and two decorative covers mounted on the housing and each abutting the reinforcing ribs. |
| US07921500B2 |
Flexible formed sheets for treating surfaces
A surface treatment tool formed from a thin sheet of flexible material, typically a polymer, shaped to store and dispense fluid, scrub, abrade, scrape off and retain debris, including particulates from treated surfaces, and including an array of closely spaced hollow mushroom-shaped protrusions that store (after a bottom sheet which is not shown is added), and then release fluids during rubbing via perforated faces, and upstanding mushroom shapes carrying soft rubbing faces which have harder scraper edges constituting operable faces with gaps between faces leading into a sunken labyrinth into which loosened debris is scraped up and retained. |
| US07921498B2 |
Mop with attached wringer
A connection assembly configured to secure a mop head to an elongate member is provided. In one embodiment, a connector may include an insert having a plurality of tabs with an inner portion and an outward extending outer portion that extends radially outward from and traverse to an elongate member when the insert is properly mounted to the elongate member. The connector may include an inner member comprising a plurality of depressions configured to engage the inner portion of the plurality of tabs of the insert. A collar having an inner wall may also be utilized, wherein at least a portion of the inner wall is of a generally circular cross-section configured to engage the outward extending outer portion of the plurality of tabs. Connection assemblies may further comprise a wringer cup configured to be mounted on the elongate member. |
| US07921496B2 |
Electric toothbrush
An electric toothbrush includes a case in which a motor is installed, at least one toothbrush handle, which is installed in the case, for rotating and swinging at a predetermined angle has a brush at a tip. A power transmitter, which is installed in the case between the motor and the toothbrush handle, rotates the toothbrush handle, and a vibration generator, which is installed in the case between the motor and the toothbrush handle, reciprocates the toothbrush handle. |
| US07921492B2 |
Method of controlling laundry treatment machine
A method of controlling a laundry treatment machine is provided in which a siphon phenomenon may be detected before performing a requested laundry treatment operation by performing an intermittent water supply operation and detecting a variation, if any, in a water level in a tub of a washing machine. Such a method may prevent was water form being discharged due to a siphon phenomenon, prevent the waste of wash water, and minimize the amount of time taken to discharge wash water and perform a washing operation. Such a method may also prevent the waste of detergent by using a water supply valve for a pre-washing operation to detect the siphon phenomenon. Such a method may also prevent a water supply failure from being mistaken as a siphon phenomenon by keeping a water supply valve open for a predefined amount of time and then detecting a variation, if any, in the water level in the tub. |
| US07921482B2 |
Adjustable plumbing fittings
An adjustable plumbing fitting has a piston rotatably and telescopically engaged in a housing, with one end of the housing adapted to be connected to a first plumbing part, and a cylindrical extension on the piston projecting from an opposite end of the housing and adapted to be connected to a second plumbing part. In one embodiment, two housings and associated pistons are integrally joined together to form a T-fitting for connecting the overflow and drain of a bathtub. In another embodiment, the housing is integrally formed with a J-shaped drain trap, and in another embodiment the housing and/or piston is integrally formed with a water closet flange. |
| US07921479B2 |
Water-conserving urinal block and holder
A system for conserving water in a conventional water-based urinal where the water has been shut off, the block includes a first block portion that makes up about forty percent to sixty percent of the urinal block and has a first portion composition substantially similar to a conventional, non-paradichlorobenzene block used in water-based urinals for deodorizing during each flush, and a second block portion that makes up about forty to sixty percent of the urinal block and has a second portion composition of a blended mixture of a non-paradichlorobenzene block portion, an odor counteractant gel, and a bacterial culture gel. |
| US07921472B2 |
Garment associated to protective inflatable devices
Garment (10) comprising means (20, 30) for active protection of the upper part of the body against falls and/or impacts with obstacles, in which a single active protection means (20, 30) extends from one side to the other of the chest above the sternum. |
| US07921467B2 |
Diving suit
A diving suit made of a rubber material comprising HNBR (hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber) is disclosed, as well as a process for the production of the diving suit and the use of HNBR in a rubber material of a diving suit for use in contaminated water. |
| US07926112B2 |
System for protecting a computing system from harmful active content in documents
A system protects a computing device from potentially harmful code in a document by receiving a data structure representation of the document and adding dynamically one or more definitions of potentially harmful active content to an editable configuration file. Each definition identifies potentially harmful active content and specifies an action to be performed on that potentially harmful active content if that potentially harmful active content is found in the document. The editable configuration file is parsed to generate a data structure representation of the one or more definitions in the editable configuration file. The data structure representation of the document is compared with the data structure representation of the one or more definitions of potentially harmful active content to identify potentially harmful active content within the document. The document is modified to render harmless any identified potentially harmful active content before presenting the document to the computing device. |
| US07926106B1 |
Utilizing early exclusive volume access and direct volume manipulation to remove protected files
Upon detection of a rootkit, a host computer system is rebooted. The boot process is interrupted. Access to a media, e.g., a volume or disk, containing the rootkit is gained and the media is directly accessed. The rootkit is disabled, e.g., renamed or deleted, and the host computer system is rebooted a second time. If the rootkit has not been previously removed, e.g., only renamed, the rootkit is removed, e.g., using a conventional antivirus application. Thus, upon detection of a rootkit, the rootkit is removed without a clean boot. |
| US07926104B1 |
Methods and systems for network attack detection and prevention through redirection
Methods and systems for detection and/or prevention of network attacks can include the use of multiple and/or time-dependent addresses coupled with filtering by the directory or naming service. The directory service can respond to requests for the address of a resource by returning an address that can be relocated over time by coordinating the directory service entry with the host and network address configuration data and/or by returning an address specific to the requestor. Thus, the directory service can track and build profiles of matches between requestors and accesses. The methods and systems can use the time dependent addresses and profiles to distinguish legitimate accesses from unauthorized or malicious ones. Requests for non-valid addresses can be misdirected to “empty” addresses or to detection devices. |
| US07926103B2 |
System and method for preventing replay attacks
Preventing replay attacks on servers. At least one Bloom filter may be set up in a server for tracking requests received from clients. Identifying data may be generated for each request. The identifying data may be checked against the Bloom filter array. If a match is found, the message may be a replay and may be rejected. If a match is not found, the request identifying data may be added to the Bloom filter and the request may be processed. |
| US07926099B1 |
Computer-implemented method and system for security event transport using a message bus
A computer-implemented device provides security events from publishers to subscribers. There is provided a message bus, configured to contain a plurality of security events. Also provided is a receiver unit, responsive to a plurality of publishers, to receive the plurality of security events from the publishers. There is also a queue unit, responsive to receipt of the security events, to queue the plurality of security events in the message bus. Also, there is a transport unit, responsive to the security events in the message bus, to transport the plurality of security events in the message bus to a plurality of subscribers. |
| US07926095B1 |
Efficient authentication system for primary and secondary servers
An efficient authentication method for providing a user access to a primary server and at least one secondary server. An efficient authentication system for primary and secondary servers for providing secure access to a user. |
| US07926085B2 |
System and method for providing an interactive, visual complement to an audio program
A system and method for providing an interactive, visual complement to one or more audio programs. In one aspect, the system comprises an audio subsystem for generating an audio signal corresponding to a sound recording. The system also comprises a video subsystem for generating a video image specification based, at least in part, on the sound recording. In one aspect, the audio signal and video image specification are transmitted to an audio/video signal transmission system. The transmission system receives the video image specification and generates a video signal that conforms to the video image specification. The video signal and the audio signal are transmitted to at least one consumer receiver. In this way, the system provides a visual complement to an audio program. |
| US07926083B2 |
Process and adaptive and progressive system for the secured distribution of fixed pictures coded in wavelets
A process for secured distribution of digital fixed pictures in the form of streams comprising sequences of data each containing a part of information of the picture comprising: modifying the original stream by modifying at least a part of the data sequences to produces a stream modified in the same nominal format as the original stream, transmitting the modified stream, and reconstruction of the modified stream with a decoder in addressee equipment, wherein the reconstruction is adaptive and progressive as a function of information coming from a digital profile of an addressee user. |
| US07926081B2 |
Method and system for forming a countdown clock channel output
A system and method includes an automation system and a scheduling system generating a schedule having a countdown time for a countdown clock assembly and communicating the schedule to an automation system. The system also includes a content repository storing promotional content and a clock background in the content repository. The automation system retrieves the promotional content and the clock background from the content repository, stores the promotional content and the clock background, forms a countdown clock assembly from the promotional content and the clock background and inserts the countdown clock assembly into a channel signal. |
| US07926078B2 |
Virtual video on demand using multiple encrypted video segments
A method and apparatus for providing a virtual video on demand services is disclosed. The method and apparatus disclose the storing of a segment of the video program in advance for VOD viewing at a later time. When the subscriber selects VOD service, a pre-stored video segment is retrieved for presentation to the subscriber. Remaining video program segments simultaneously broadcast on a plurality of channels are recorded in parallel while the pre-stored video program segment is retrieved and presented to the user. |
| US07926076B2 |
Displaying advertisement on user terminal
A method of displaying an independent advertisement while providing a broadcasting service and a user terminal executing the method are disclosed. In one embodiment, the user terminal outputs broadcast data, received from a broadcasting system, during a broadcast program output period, then outputs stored advertisement data received earlier from an advertisement server or advertisement data received real time during a predetermined advertisement data output period, and outputs broadcast data received real time at the end of the advertisement data output period. According to at least one embodiment, a broadcasting device and an advertising device can be separated to have targeted advertisements delivered to a user during a commercial time of regular broadcasting, maximizing the effect of advertisement. |
| US07926068B2 |
Printing interface for a computer platform
A printing interface provides facilities for handling print server properties, print queues, print commands, printing-related operations, and the like. These facilities allow developers to access and utilize various printing-related information and functions. |
| US07926065B2 |
Method and system for dynamically specifying a format for data provided by a web service invocation
A method and system for dynamically specifying a format for data provided by a web service invocation. A server providing a web service receives a client request for data residing on the server. The server receives an executable template script within the request. The template script includes an instruction for invoking a function residing in the server and a definition specifying a format to structure the requested data. The server executes the template script to perform the instruction, invoke the function to retrieve the data, and generate formatted data based on the definition. The formatted data is the retrieved data structured in the format specified by the definition. The server sends the formatted data to the client. |
| US07926062B2 |
Interrupt and exception handling for multi-streaming digital processors
A multi-streaming processor has a plurality of streams for streaming one or more instruction threads, a set of functional resources for processing instructions from streams, and interrupt handler logic. The logic detects and maps interrupts and exceptions to one or more specific streams. In some embodiments, one interrupt or exception may be mapped to two or more streams, and in others two or more interrupts or exceptions may be mapped to one stream. Mapping may be static and determined at processor design, programmable, with data stored and amendable, or conditional and dynamic, the interrupt logic executing an algorithm sensitive to variables to determine the mapping. Interrupts may be external interrupts generated by devices external to the processor software (internal) interrupts generated by active streams, or conditional, based on variables. After interrupts are acknowledged, streams to which interrupts or exceptions are mapped are vectored to appropriate service routines. In a synchronous method, no vectoring occurs until all streams to which an interrupt is mapped acknowledge the interrupt. |
| US07926060B2 |
iMEM reconfigurable architecture
A computing system that includes a number of processing elements, a memory and a multi-task controller. In one embodiment, the path between the resource manager and the processing elements is the same for all processing elements. In another embodiment, the data path is different between different processing elements. A processing element receives a request via a strobe signal and data on a path between the resource manager and the processing element and reports status on the data path via a different strobe signal. The request to the processing element may specify floating point computations, as well as sorting operations. The processing element can use an auxiliary memory to aid in the sorting operations. Push and pop functions are processed by the processing element to facilitate the loading of multiple data operands in the processing element. |
| US07926057B2 |
Scheduling of computer jobs employing dynamically determined top job party
A facility is presented for scheduling computer jobs of a computing environment having a plurality of computing nodes. The facility includes scheduling N sequential computer jobs of a job queue until achieving a top job party, wherein N≧2, and the number of jobs in the top job party is dynamically determined by monitoring backfill window coverage of the computing nodes by the N scheduled jobs and automatically closing membership in the top job party once (i) all computing nodes are covered by at least one backfill window, or (ii) a backfill end time of at least one computing node is greater than or equal to a maximum wallclock limit of a set of job classes having the N scheduled jobs. Responsive to determining the top job party, the facility then backfill schedules jobs of the job queue around the top job party for execution. |
| US07926055B2 |
Processor capable of reconfiguring a logical circuit
The present invention provides a processor that cyclically executes a plurality of threads in accordance with an execution time allocated to each of the threads, comprising a reconfigurable integrated circuit. The processor stores circuit configuration information sets respectively corresponding to the plurality of threads, reconfigures a part of the integrated circuit based on the circuit configuration information sets, and sequentially executes each thread using the integrated circuit that has been reconfigured based on one of the configuration information sets that corresponds to the thread. While executing a given thread, the processor selects a thread to be executed next, and reconfigures a part of the integrated circuit where is not currently used for execution of the given thread, based on a circuit configuration information set corresponding to the selected thread. |
| US07926054B2 |
System, method, and computer-readable medium for virtual machine instantiation from an external peripheral device
A system, method, and computer-readable medium for instantiating a virtual machine on a computer by way of a physical peripheral device is provided. A virtual machine image may be composed on a portable memory device, such as a USB-flash memory device. Insertion of the physical device in a peripheral terminal is detected by a host function or module, and the physical device is evaluated to determine whether a virtual machine is defined thereby. In the event that the physical device includes a virtual machine image, the host reads the virtual machine image from the physical device and allocates a virtual machine per the read virtual machine image. |
| US07926053B1 |
Methods and apparatus for optimizing installation location of software
A system installs an application by identifying a file set indicating files accessed during operation of the application. The system identifies a set of available storage areas that are accessible to a computerized device, and that are capable of storing files in the file set. The system identifies a performance metric associated with each of the storage areas in the set of available storage areas, and positions files from the file set into at least one storage area of the set of available storage areas. The files are positioned based on the performance metrics associated with the one storage area. |
| US07926049B1 |
System and method for determining differences between software configurations
A system and method for determining differences between configurations of a software program. A configuration differencing command generates a hash table of configuration keys and values for each of the configurations being compared. A key is selected from a first hash table and the command determines if an identical key exists in the second hash table. If the key exists in the second hash table, a comparison is made of the values associated with the keys and, if the values are not identical, the configuration differencing command displays the differences to an administrator. |
| US07926047B2 |
Methods and systems for optimization in a run-time environment
An embodiment relates generally to a method of optimization in a run-time execution environment. The method includes providing for a plurality of symbol tables, each symbol table associated with a respective object, the plurality of objects being linked to create a runtime version of a program. The method also includes searching through a selected symbol table of the plurality of symbol tables and determining a symbol type of an entry in the selected symbol table. The method further includes executing a callback function in response to the symbol type being an special symbol table entry and returning the address of an optimized function for the entry in the selected symbol table. |
| US07926046B2 |
Compiler method for extracting and accelerator template program
This invention describes a compilation method of extracting and implementing an accelerator control program from an application source code in a processor based system. The application source code comprises arrays and loops. The input application source code is sequential, with loop, branch and call control structures, while the generated output of this invention has parallel execution semantics. The compilation method comprises the step of performing loop nest analysis, transformations and backend processes. The step of loop nest analysis consists of dependence analysis and pointer analysis. Dependence analysis determines the conflicts between the various references to arrays in the loop, and pointer analysis determines if two pointer references in a loop are in conflict. Transformations convert the loops from their original sequential execution semantics to parallel execution semantics. The back-end process determines the parameters and memory map of the accelerator and the hardware dependent software. |
| US07926039B2 |
Reachability analysis for program verification
An improved method for automatically improving the precision of an extrapolation operator used, for example, in software program verification in connection with the static analysis and model checking of the software programs which rely on fix-point computation. In particular, a new extrapolation-with-care-set operator, together with a method for gradually increasing the precision of this operation by tightening the care set. |
| US07926037B2 |
Hiding irrelevant facts in verification conditions
A program verification process begins by converting a language of the program from a first language into an intermediate language representation. The loops of the program are eliminated. The program is converted from the intermediate language representation into a passive form. Dominators for the passive form of the program are determined. A verification condition is generated from the passive form of the program. The verification condition is structured according to the computed dominators such that when a theorem prover identifies a potential error, portions of the passive form of the program irrelevant to the potential error are ignored. |
| US07926036B2 |
Technologies for code failure proneness estimation
The present examples provide technologies for estimating code failure proneness probabilities for a code set and/or the files that make up the set. The code set being evaluated is typically comprised of binary and/or source files that embody the software for which the estimates are desired. The estimates are typically based on a set of selected code metrics, the code metrics typically selected based on corresponding failures of a previous version of the software. A historically variant metric feedback factor may also be calculated and code metric values classified relative to a baseline code set embodying the previous version of the software. |
| US07926030B1 |
Configurable software application
A configurable software application is provided, where the software application may be designed on a platform including at least one configuration utility for enabling end users to customize various aspects of the application. For example, end users may use the configuration utility to customize one or more user interface elements, event handlers, data handlers, and/or data elements of the application. The software application may be automatically updated to incorporate the user customizations. In one implementation, custom user interface elements may be used to control a navigation of the application or an interaction with data elements of the application. In another implementation, custom data elements, based on a hierarchical metadata structure, may dictate an organization of the application. In another implementation, custom event handlers may control business logic and rules for the application, while custom data handlers may control interfacing with the data elements. |
| US07926028B2 |
Computer implemented process for identifying conflicts between policies
A computer implemented process for identifying conflicts between policies for a method invocable by an object is described, in which the method is a member of at least one statically defined method grouping having a corresponding policy. The process comprises, for each method grouping, obtaining each method which is a member of the method grouping, associating therewith the corresponding method grouping policy, and comparing policies associated with methods which are members of two or more method groupings to identify conflicts. |
| US07926024B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing complex processes
A software program, for allowing users to manage the execution of a complex set of steps toward the solution of complex system analysis problems. The set of steps is termed a recipe. A step is a small focused task designed to accomplish a single, well-defined goal. This invention allows recipes to be easily switched, recorded and reused and for steps to be dynamically reconfigurable based on what the user does. |
| US07926023B2 |
Methods and apparatus for handling processing errors in a multi-processing system
Methods and apparatus are provided for: monitoring processor tasks and associated processor loads therefor that are allocated to be performed by respective sub-processing units associated with a main processing unit; detecting whether a processing error has occurred in a given one of the sub-processing units; re-allocating all of the processor tasks of the given sub-processing unit to one or more participating sub-processing units, including other sub-processing units associated with the main processing unit, based on the processor loads of the processor tasks of the given sub-processing unit and the processor loads of the participating sub-processing units; and at least one of: (i) shutting down, and (ii) re-booting the given sub-processing unit. |
| US07926022B2 |
Surrogate-based and extends-based context look-up
Methods, apparatus and systems for processing of code that includes key fields having surrogate and extends relationships are described. In some embodiments, a method includes receiving a pattern language code having definitions of a number of classes, wherein a definition of a first class of the number of classes comprises a reference to a field. The method also includes compiling the pattern language code to generate an object code, wherein the compiling comprises validating that the field is defined with a context of the first class. The context includes a second class of the number of classes that has a surrogate relationship with the first class. |
| US07926016B1 |
Timing driven logic block configuration
A method of configuring a logic block of a programmable logic device (PLD) during physical implementation of a circuit design, wherein ports of the logic block are selectively registered, can include identifying the logic block of the PLD, wherein the logic block is located on a critical path. For each of a plurality of selectively registerable portions of the logic block, the method can include computing input slacks and output slacks based upon potential register usage within the logic block. The method further can include determining register usage for the logic block by maximizing a function which depends upon a measure of worst case slack for pipeline stages. |
| US07926013B2 |
Validating continuous signal phase matching in high-speed nets routed as differential pairs
Methods and apparatus to validate continuous signal phase matching in high-speed nets routed as differential pairs are described. In one embodiment, a primary net of a differential pair may be traversed to determine whether a design rule violation has occurred based on comparison of calculated trace lengths of the primary net and a secondary net against a threshold value. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US07926008B2 |
Integrated circuit with on-board power utilization information
A system and method for storing power utilization information in an integrated circuit and utilizing such information. Various aspects of the present invention provide an integrated circuit that comprises a first module, which stores power utilization information for at least a portion of the integrated circuit. A second module of the integrated circuit may communicate the power utilization information with an electrical device external to the integrated circuit. Various aspects of the present invention provide a method for storing power utilization information in an integrated circuit. For example, a performance characteristic and/or a power supply characteristic may be monitored as the integrated circuit is utilized. Power utilization information may be determined from the monitored characteristic(s), and the power utilization information may be stored in the integrated circuit. Various aspects of the present invention also provide a system and method for utilizing an integrated circuit having on-board power utilization information. |
| US07925998B2 |
Delay calculating method in semiconductor integrated circuit
An input pin capacitance of a cell is obtained in advance in a function expression, and a delay is calculated in such manner that the input pin capacitance is calculated in functions of an input slew and a drive load capacitance in each instance. In a cell characterizing process, a total volume of a current running into an input terminal before a voltage value of the input terminal reaches a reference voltage is obtained so that a value approximate to a real input pin capacitance can be obtained. |
| US07925995B2 |
Integration of location logs, GPS signals, and spatial resources for identifying user activities, goals, and context
Described are methods that utilize a geographic location technology (e.g., GPS) to determine user location data, and existing network-based websites (e.g., Internet websites) for searching and accessing data related to the location data such that the user context can be developed and stored. A location component is provided that determines location data of a wireless communications device of a user. A context component is provided that accesses context data based on the location data to define a context in which the device is located. Activities, goals, and overall context of a user can be inferred through statistical fusion of multiple sources of evidence. The context data is presented to the user via the wireless device such that the user can make decisions as to where to go, for example. User preferences can be accessed and applied to filter context data according to what the user desires to see and access. |
| US07925990B2 |
Methods, systems, and products for calendaring applications
Methods, systems, and products are disclosed for acknowledging a reminder in a calendaring application. One such method stores a calendar entry corresponding to an event and a rule. The rule comprises a reminder of the event. The reminder is presented according to the rule, and an acknowledgement of the reminder is received. A message is then communicated in real-time to similarly acknowledge a pending reminder that corresponds to the same event in another instance of the calendaring application. |
| US07925987B2 |
Entry and editing of electronic ink
A control and its associated programming interface for allowing entry of electronic ink, editing and other manipulation of the ink, and/or recognition of the ink. Ink may be stored in a data structure such as an ink object that permits later retrieval by applications. As is the case with text that may be bolded, underlined, italicized, and the like, the describe control and its programming interface may permit ink information to be manipulated as easily as text, while providing the richness of handwritten ink. |
| US07925980B2 |
N-way multimedia collaboration systems
A method (400) for online collaboration among users at different locations sharing common motion imagery (302). The method involves storing data defining the motion imagery (MID) in a data store (104) associated with a motion image server (MIS) and communicating the motion imagery to a first client device (FCD). The method also involves generating at the FCD (106) an annotation (304, . . . , 308) capable of being displayed together with the motion imagery. The annotation is defined by metadata distinct from the MID and containing information to associate the metadata with the motion imagery. The method further involves communicating the metadata to the MIS (102), storing the metadata in the data store, and communicating the MID and the metadata to a second client device (SCD). The SCD (108) selectively displays the annotation together with the motion imagery in response to an input command of a second user. |
| US07925979B2 |
Extensible manufacturing/process control information portal server
A manufacturing/process control system information access provider architecture is disclosed. Manufacturing/process control system data provider flexibility is achieved through a user-configurable manufacturing/process control information portal server that comprises multiple selectable data provides (sources) and/or data types that a particular data provider accommodates. A user configures the portal server to deliver manufacturing/process control information associated with a controlled process environment, such as a food processing plant floor or an oil refinery reactor, to the user via a browser client over the Internet or a corporate intranet. Furthermore, an extensible architecture is provided that enables adding new components to the portal server. Such extensions include new data sources and new data types/handlers. The new architecture enables a user to select particular ones of the available data handlers and then their associated data sources thereby facilitating customizing the configuration of the portal server to the particular needs/interests of the user. |
| US07925975B2 |
Searching for commands to execute in applications
A user can access a searching component that allows the user to enter search terms to search for commands associated with a computer program. The most likely commands are provided to the user, and a command can be selected for execution. |
| US07925971B2 |
Transformation module for transforming documents from one format to other formats with pipelined processor having dedicated hardware resources
A method and apparatus for converting documents from one format to another in a speed efficient way involves a hardware module which implements several operating pipeline stages which work in parallel. The transformations are supplied and decomposed into sequences of control units. The transformation of documents consists of applying control unit sequences to input documents. The control units are themselves executed by a set of dedicated hardware resources. Furthermore the pipeline is capable of operating on more than one document at a time. Fast document transformation is a key capability of document processing systems. The use of parallel processing techniques and hardware that implements highly specialized transformation resources make this invention particularly scalable for its use in large, high speed content networks. |
| US07925969B2 |
Systems and methods for comparing documents containing graphic elements
A system and methods for comparing a plurality of documents comprising graphic elements is described. Attributes of graphic elements amongst the documents are examined to identify sufficiently similar graphic elements. A merged document can be automatically produced based on the comparison. Graphic elements in the resulting document may be associated with a document layer. Methods may advantageously be applied to a plurality of documents representing different versions of a document. |
| US07925966B2 |
Grouping and nesting hierarchical namespaces
A group identifier represents an association between each of a number of different abbreviated namespace identifiers with a corresponding hierarchical namespace (e.g., an XML namespace). A hierarchically-structured document (e.g., an XML document) is accessed by a computing system that determines that the group identifier is associated with the hierarchically-structured document. Hence, when using the abbreviated namespace identifiers in the hierarchically-structured document, the computing system knows that the corresponding namespace is associated with the designated portions of the hierarchically-structured document. Also, a schema description language document (e.g., an XSD document) may specify multiple target namespaces for a single element. Accordingly, groupings of elements may be included in different namespaces to creating overlapping or even nested namespaces. |
| US07925963B2 |
Sets of rate-compatible universal turbo codes nearly optimized over various rates and interleaver sizes
A method and apparatus for Turbo encoding uses a set of rate-compatible Turbo Codes optimized at high code rates and derived from a universal constituent code. The Turbo Codes have rate-compatible puncturing patterns.The method comprises: encoding a signal at a first and second encoder using a best rate 1/2 constituent code universal with higher code rates, the first encoder and the second encoder each producing a respective plurality of parity bits for each information bit; puncturing the respective plurality of parity bits at each encoder with a higher rate best puncturing patterns; and puncturing the respective plurality of parity bits at each encoder with a lower rate best puncturing pattern. In a variation, the best rate 1/2 constituent code represents a concatenation of polynomials 1+D2+D3 (octal 13) and 1+D+D3 (octal 15), D a data bit. A Turbo Encoder is provided which has hardware to implement the method. |
| US07925960B2 |
Memory and method for checking reading errors thereof
A method for checking reading errors of a memory includes receiving a first data fragment and accordingly generating a first ECC and a first count index; writing the first data fragment, the first ECC and the first count index into a memory; reading the first data fragment from the memory as a second data fragment, generating a second ECC and second count index according to the second data fragment; determining whether the first count index and second count index are equal; determining whether the first ECC and the second ECC are equal; and outputting the second data fragment when the first count index is equal to the second count index and the first ECC is equal to the second ECC. |
| US07925959B2 |
Systems and methods for tri-column code based error reduction
Various systems and methods for tri-column code based error reduction are disclosed herein. For example, a digital information system is disclosed that includes channel detector. Such a channel detector receives an encoded data set and provides an output representing the encoded data set. The exemplary system further includes a decoder that receives the first output and is operable to perform three slope parity checks on the received first output. In turn, the decoder provides another output representing the encoded data set. |
| US07925958B2 |
CRC counter normalization
The ability to accurately and efficiently calculate and report communication errors is becoming more important than ever in today's communications environment. More specifically calculating and reporting CRC anomalies in a consistent manner across a plurality of communications connections in a network is crucial to accurate error reporting. Through a normalization technique applied to a CRC computation period (e.g., the PERp value), accurate error identification and reporting for each individual connection can be achieved. |
| US07925957B2 |
Validating data using processor instructions
In one embodiment, the present invention includes a method for determining from a data block in a buffer a number of first operands in a first portion of the buffer and a number of second operands in a second portion of the buffer. Based on these numbers, a cyclic redundancy checksum (CRC) operation may be iteratively performed on the first and second operands to obtain a checksum result. The first and second operands are of a different length, and the checksum operation may be executed using processor instructions corresponding to the different lengths. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US07925951B2 |
Scan circuitry controlled switch connecting buffer output to test lead
The peripheral circuitry (350, 360, ESD, BH) of an integrated circuit die on a wafer is tested without physically contacting the bond pads of the die. |
| US07925949B2 |
Embedded processor
Electronic apparatus, systems, and methods of operating and constructing the electronic apparatus and/or systems include an embedded processor disposed in a logic chip to direct, among other functions, self-testing of an electronic device structure in conjunction with a pattern buffer disposed in the logic chip, when the electronic device structure is coupled to the logic chip. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US07925942B2 |
Augmentation instruction shift register with serial and two parallel inputs
An architecture for testing a plurality of circuits on an integrated circuit is described. The architecture includes a TAP Linking Module located between test pins on the integrated circuit and 1149.1 Test Access Ports (TAP) of the plurality of circuits to be tested. The TAP Linking Module operates in response to 1149.1 scan operations from a tester connected to the test pins to selectively switch between 1149.1 TAPs to enable test access between the tester and plurality of circuits. The TAP Linking Module's 1149.1 TAP switching operation is based upon augmenting 1149.1 instruction patterns to affix an additional bit or bits of information which is used by the TAP Linking Module for performing the TAP switching operation. |
| US07925940B2 |
Enhancing speed of simulation of an IC design while testing scan circuitry
A computer is programmed to prepare a computer program for simulating operation of an integrated circuit (IC) chip, in order to test scan circuitry therein. The computer is programmed to trace a path through combinational logic in a design of the IC chip, starting from an output port of a first scan cell and ending in an input port of a second scan cell. If the first and second scan cells receive a common scan enable signal, then the computer generates at least a portion of the computer program, i.e. software to perform simulation of propagating a signal through the path conditionally, for example when the common scan enable signal is inactive and alternatively to skip performing simulation when the common scan enable signal is active. The computer stores the portion of the computer program in memory, for use with other such portions of the computer program. |
| US07925938B2 |
Structure and method of repairing SDRAM by generating slicing table of fault distribution
A structure and method for repairing SDRAM by generating a Slicing Table of Fault Distribution and using the size of SDRAM page as the partition basic block. The Slicing Table of Fault Distribution is generated at each booting or memory-testing, and the elemental range of the number of detected defects is formed. When the number of detected defects exceeds the elemental range, the limits of another partition block with a lower rate of defects are used to cure the defect. The repair bit is also encoded according to the Slicing Table of Fault Distribution, pointing to the remapping bit so that the access operation occurs at the remapping bit. As such, the cost of producing, testing and repairing SDRAM is greatly reduced. |
| US07925937B2 |
Apparatus for testing embedded memory read paths
An integrated circuit. The integrated circuit includes a plurality of logic circuits. The integrated circuit further includes a scan chain including a plurality of scan elements coupled in series, wherein the scan chain is configured to load stimulus data to be applied to the logic circuits for testing. The scan chain is further configured to capture data subsequent to applying the stimulus data. The integrated circuit also includes an embedded memory having a read port, wherein the read port is coupled to one or more of the plurality of logic circuits via a read path. The embedded memory includes a virtual entry having a plurality of scan-controllable storage elements. During testing, the virtual entry is operable to apply transition data to the read path in order to cause logic state transitions in the one or more logic circuits in the read path. |
| US07925935B2 |
Back channel communication
Included are embodiments for back channel communication. At least one embodiment of a method includes receiving data at customer premises equipment and determining at least one error in the received data. Some embodiments include formatting the determined error for communication to a central office and sending the formatted error to the central office via a back channel. |
| US07925933B2 |
Multifunctional terminal device
A multifunctional terminal device includes a sensing unit that senses a malfunction, and a determining unit that determines a type of the malfunction when a malfunction has occurred. A selecting unit selects according to the type of the malfunction a recovery operation and a notification operation. A recovering unit performs the recovery operation, and a notifying unit performs the notification operation to notify occurrence of the malfunction. |
| US07925932B1 |
Method and appartus for detecting an application process failure
A method and apparatus for detecting an application process failure is described. In one embodiment, a process membership manager is opened with a first process. This action by the first process causes an instance indicia associated with the process membership manager to be assigned a first predefined value. The first process (i.e., parent process) then forks (or creates) a second process (i.e., child process). Once the second process is created, the instance indicia is changed to a second predefined value. In the event the second process fails, the second predefined value will change to reflect the process failure. Consequently, this change of the second predefined value causes a message, which provides notice of the second process failure, to be sent to a process membership manager. |
| US07925927B2 |
Simulator for determining data loss in a fault tolerant system
A fault tolerant system is simulated to determine the occurrence of data loss in the fault tolerant system. A list of erasure patterns corresponding to an erasure code implemented across the devices in the system is provided and a device event is simulated. The list of erasure patterns is updated based on the device event, and the occurrence of data loss is determined based on the updated list. |
| US07925923B1 |
Migrating a virtual machine in response to failure of an instruction to execute
A virtual machine is migrated from a first physical machine to a second physical machine in response to a failure of an instruction to execute. A migration constraint also is created which limits future migration of the virtual machine by a placement controller to only those physical machines that can execute the failed instruction. |
| US07925916B2 |
Failsafe recovery facility in a coordinated timing network
A failsafe recovery capability for a Coordinated Timing Network. The recovery capability facilitates recovery when communication is lost between two servers of the coordinated timing network. The capability includes checking another system's status in order to determine what action is to be taken. The status includes the stratum level of the servers and a version number indicating the code level of the servers. |
| US07925915B2 |
Concept of zero-dense wave division multiplex disaster recovery process
There is provided a system and method of disaster preparedness and restoration of service of damaged or destroyed telecommunication network elements. A computer-implemented method of disaster backup for network elements includes establishing connectivity to a plurality of network elements. A host computer may transmit one or more commands to the network elements for invoking a computer routine to create a plurality of computer readable service continuity data to a local memory of the network elements. An automated system of computer executable components for disaster recovery of network elements includes a computer executable controller component that is configured to select a plurality of network elements designated for disaster backup action. A computer executable engine component is configured to establish connectivity to the plurality of network elements and to transmit one or more commands to the network elements so as to replicate service continuity data for each of said network elements. |
| US07925914B2 |
Information system, data transfer method and data protection method
Availability of an information system including a storage system that performs remote copy between two or more storage apparatuses and a host computer using such storage system is improved. A third storage apparatus including a third volume is coupled to a first storage apparatus, a fourth storage apparatus including a fourth volume is coupled to a second storage apparatus, the first and third storage apparatuses perform remote copy of copying data stored in a first volume to the third volume, the first and second storage apparatuses perform remote copy of copying data stored in the first volume to a second volume, and the third and fourth storage apparatuses perform remote copy of copying data stored in the third volume to the fourth volume. |
| US07925913B1 |
CDR control architecture for robust low-latency exit from the power-saving mode of an embedded CDR in a programmable integrated circuit device
Clock data recovery (CDR) circuitry of a high-speed serial interface on a programmable integrated circuit device toggles, during the electrical idle period of the receiver of the interface, between its “lock-to-reference” (“LTR”) state and its normal “lock-to-data” (“LTD”) state. Whenever during this toggling mode the CDR circuitry toggles to the LTD state, it remains in that state for a predetermined interval and then returns to the LTR state, unless, while it is in the LTD state, it receives a signal from elsewhere in the receiver that data have been received and byte synchronization has occurred. The predetermined toggling interval preferably is long enough to obtain an LTR lock to minimize frequency drift, but short enough to avoid unnecessary delay in detection of the synchronization signal. Preferably, this interval is programmable by the user within limits determined by the characterization of the programmable device. Unreliable analog signal detection is thereby avoided. |
| US07925904B2 |
Circuit and operating method for integrated interface of PDA and wireless communication system
A battery charging method for a device that has a PDA, a wireless communication system, and a power system having a battery and is charged via an external charging cable. The device further has an external charging circuit for charging the battery. The wireless communication system has an internal charging circuit for charging the battery. The battery charging method includes performing current charging to the battery via the external charging circuit by using the external charging cable; turning on the wireless communication system; and turning on the internal charging circuit for charging after the wireless communication system is turned on. |
| US07925903B2 |
Media device power conservation
Power is dynamically conserved in a device by analyzing past processing performance of the device and predicting the amount of power required for future execution. In an example embodiment, a video frame is analyzed to determine what portion of the video frame was needed to render data. If less than the full video frame was needed, at least one power conservation technique is applied to the device for subsequent rendering of data. Power conservation techniques include adjusting the operating frequency of circuitry utilized to render data, adjusting the voltage applied to circuitry utilized to render data, and/or turning off/on circuitry utilized to render data. |
| US07925902B1 |
System and method for controlling an integrated display computer heat sink temperature
A temperature control system and method for a heat sink in an integrated display computer. Temperature sensing and throttling capabilities of ICs are used to prevent a passive heat sink from rising above a maximum temperature. An algorithm for controlling power usage of the ICs limits the maximum heat sink temperature. The maximum temperature is adjustable with an option in the BIOS. The heat sink temperature is controlled by throttling down the ICs when the temperature rises. An ACPI/OSPM passive cooling mechanism for the CPU defines a thermal feedback equation that operates once a thermal trip point is reached. The higher the actual temperature is above the trip point, the faster the CPU throttles down. Likewise, the CPU throttles up as the actual temperature drops below the trip point. The reported CPU temperature is adjusted higher or lower depending on how close the actual temperature is to the specified heat sink operating temperature. |
| US07925899B2 |
Method, system, and apparatus for runtime power estimation
Assertions of sentinel nodes within a device may be used to calculate device power consumption at runtime. These power estimates may be used to estimate a device temperature or leakage power, and/or may be used to make device throttling decisions. |
| US07925897B2 |
System, method and apparatus for controlling the dissemination of digital works
A system, business methodology and apparatus for facilitating controlled dissemination of digital works is disclosed. An audio and video organizer, entertainment, and communication unit that plays back audio and video media content received from a central storage server. The unit relies on a smartcard, which has a personalized key that unlocks encrypted content. Using the unit, a user can purchase music or other types of media using a appropriate ordering method. The central storage server then transmits a double-encrypted, compressed audio file to the unit, where it is decrypted based on the smartcard key, and available for listening. |
| US07925896B2 |
Hardware key encryption for data scrambling
Apparatus and method to scramble data prior to placing it on a bus or in memory uses embedded hardware keys for encryption/decryption. The hardware keys may be used in addition to software encryption. Different hardware keys may be used to process most significant bits and least significant bits of a data word. Different hardware keys may be used to process messages from/to different channels. The hardware key may be comprise a series of fixed logic cells. |
| US07925891B2 |
Apparatus and method for employing cryptographic functions to generate a message digest
The present invention provides an apparatus and method for performing cryptographic operations on a plurality of message blocks within a processor to generate a message digest. In one embodiment, the apparatus has an x86-compatible microprocessor that includes translation logic and execution logic. The translation logic receives a single, atomic cryptographic instruction from a source therefrom, where the single, atomic cryptographic instruction prescribes generation of the message digest according to one of the cryptographic operations. The translation logic also translates the single, atomic cryptographic instruction into a sequence of micro instructions specifying sub-operations required to accomplish generation of the message digest according to the one of the cryptographic operations. The execution logic is operatively coupled to the translation logic. The execution logic receives the sequence of micro instructions, and performs the sub-operations to generate the message digest. |
| US07925886B2 |
Encryption output data generation method and system
A hashing method and system. The method comprises receiving by a computing system first source data. A first hash function is applied to first source data. A first hash output is generated by the first hash function as a result of applying the first hash function to first source data. The computing system performs an operation relating the first source data with at least a portion of the first hash output to generate second source data. The first hash function is applied to the second source data. A second hash output is generated as a result of applying the first hash function to the second source data. |
| US07925885B2 |
Method for recording and reading a code of material products for protection and control of their authenticity, and a system therefor
Material code recording and reading method and devices designed for protection of products and control of their authenticity. The marking device 1 embeds a sign upon the product 4, the marked product 5 is passed to camera 2 which films the product material structure around the sign and transfers the image to the recording device 3, the latter records the database. The comparing alarm device 8 compares the icon from camera 7 with the icon from database 6 and alarms whether they are identical or not. |
| US07925881B2 |
Method and apparatus for preventing rogue implementations of a security-sensitive class interface
A method and apparatus for preventing rogue implementations of a security-sensitive class interface are provided. With the method and apparatus, a unique identifier (UID) is created by a server process when the server process is started. Anytime the server process, i.e. a server runtime environment, instantiates a new credential object following start-up of the server process, the encrypted UID is placed into a private field within the new credential object. In addition, the UID is encrypted and stored in a private class of the server runtime environment. A verification class is provided within the server runtime environment which includes one or more methods that receive the credential object as a parameter and return true or false as to the validity of the credential object. These one or more methods determine the validity of the credential object by retrieving the encrypted UID from the private class stored in the server runtime environment, decrypting the UID and comparing it to the decrypted UID stored in the private field of the credential object. If the two UIDs match, a determination is made that the credential object was created by the server runtime environment rather than a rogue application. If the two UIDs do not match, or if there is no UID in the credential object, then a false result will be returned by the verification class. |
| US07925879B2 |
Information processing unit with information division recording function
An information processing unit is an unit which has an information division recording function in which a file is divided and stored. The information processing unit includes a first storage section for storing a first partial file of a file divided, a second storage section for storing a second partial file, a state detection section for checking an operating state of the information processing unit and detecting that the operating state has changed in a specific manner, and a control section for performing a lock processing in accordance with the state detected to the second partial file stored on the second storage section when the state detected by the state detection section is determined as a risky state in which unauthorized access can be performed. |
| US07925875B2 |
Systems and methods for identifying and booting a computer architecture
Methods, systems, and architectures for multiplatform booting from a portable module with nonvolatile memory. Preferably the portable module carries the correct binaries for booting multiple system architectures, together with a table from which the host, at power-up, can calculate the correct offset to load the appropriate binary. |
| US07925874B1 |
Adaptive configuration of conflicting applications
Disclosed are systems, methods and computer program products for adaptive configuration of conflicting applications. An example method comprises collecting system configuration information from a computer system, including system hardware and software information. The method further comprises monitoring system resource utilization during execution of a first program and one or more second programs. The method further comprises determining one or more critical levels of system resource utilization by applying fuzzy logic rules to the collected system configuration information. When the monitored system resource utilization exceeds the determined critical level for a predetermined period of time, determining, based on the collected software information, if the first program conflicts with execution of one or more second programs. Determining whether conflicting second programs are harmful to the computer system and changing configuration settings of the first program to resolve conflicts with the conflicting second programs that are harmless. |
| US07925873B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling operating parameters in a computer system
A system that controls one or more operating parameters in a computer system is presented. Until specified values for one or more operating parameters are achieved, the system performs the following operations. The system operates the computer system using a specified load profile. The system then determines whether the specified load profile produces the specified values for the one or more operating parameters. If the specified load profile does not produce the specified values for the one or more operating parameters, the system adjusts the specified load profile, which involves using a pulse-width modulation technique to adjust a duty cycle between a first workload and a second workload. |
| US07925872B2 |
Method and apparatus for using a directory service to facilitate centralized device naming
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that uses a directory service to facilitate centralized device naming. The system operates by receiving a registration of a device at a computer system. Next, the system determines if the device has been registered with the directory service. If so, the system retrieves a name of the device from the directory service. If not, the system generates a device name for the device, and registers the device name with the directory service. |
| US07925867B2 |
Pre-decode checking for pre-decoded instructions that cross cache line boundaries
A data processing and method are provided for pre-decoding instructions. The data processing apparatus has pre-decoding circuitry for receiving instructions fetched from a memory and for performing a pre-decoding operation to generate corresponding pre-decoded instructions, which are then stored in the cache for access by the processing circuitry. If a pre-decoded instruction crosses a cache line boundary, then checking circuitry in respect of selected types of pre-decoded instruction checks for consistency between the first portion of the pre-decoded instruction stored within a first cache line and a contiguous second portion of the pre-decoded instruction stored within a second cache line. If this consistency check is passed such that the two portions are self-consistent, then the pre-decoded instruction can be further decoded and issued. If the consistency check is failed, or the pre-decoded instruction is not of a type for which consistency checking is supported, then re-generation of the pre-decoded instruction is triggered. |
| US07925864B2 |
Method and apparatus for binding shadow registers to vectored interrupts
A method and apparatus within a processing system is provided for associating shadow register sets with interrupt routines. The invention includes a vector generator that receives interrupts, and generates exception vectors to call interrupt routines that correspond to the interrupts. The exception vector considers the type of interrupt and the priority level of the interrupt when selecting the exception vector. Shadow set mapping logic is coupled to the vector generator. The mapping logic contains a number of fields that correspond to the different exception vectors that may be generated. The fields are programmable by kernel mode instructions, and contain data mapping each field to one of a number of shadow register sets. When an interrupt occurs, the vector generator generates a corresponding exception vector. In addition, the shadow set mapping logic looks at the field corresponding to the exception vector, and retrieves the data stored therein. The data is used to switch to one of the shadow register sets for use by an interrupt routine. Upon return from the interrupt routine, the previously used register set is selected. |
| US07925863B2 |
Hardware device comprising multiple accelerators for performing multiple independent hardware acceleration operations
Multiple hardware accelerators can be used to efficiently perform processes that would otherwise be performed by general purpose hardware running software. The software overhead and bus bandwidth associated with running multiple hardware acceleration processes can be reduced by chaining multiple independent hardware acceleration operations within a circuit card assembly. Multiple independent hardware accelerators can be configured on a single circuit card assembly that is coupled to a computing device. The computing device can generate a playlist of hardware acceleration operations identifying hardware accelerators and associated accelerator options. A task management unit on the circuit card assembly receives the playlist and schedules the hardware acceleration operations such that multiple acceleration operations may be successively chained together without intervening data exchanges with the computing device. |
| US07925862B2 |
Coprocessor forwarding load and store instructions with displacement to main processor for cache coherent execution when program counter value falls within predetermined ranges
A coprocessor (14) may be used to perform one or more specialized operations that can be off-loaded from a primary or general purpose processor (12). It is important to allow efficient communication and interfacing between the processor (12) and the coprocessor (14). In one embodiment, a coprocessor (14) generates and provides instructions (200, 220) to an instruction pipe (20) in the processor (12). Because the coprocessor (14) generated instructions are part of the standard instruction set of the processor (12), cache (70) coherency is easy to maintain. Also, circuitry (102) in coprocessor (14) may perform an operation on data while circuitry (106) in coprocessor (14) is concurrently generating processor instructions (200, 220). |
| US07925856B1 |
Method and apparatus for maintaining an amount of reserve space using virtual placeholders
A method and apparatus for maintaining an amount of reserve space using virtual placeholders. In one embodiment, a method of using placeholders for log files to maintain an amount of reserve storage space comprises determining a first required log file, wherein the first required log file is to be used to recover a database volume, generating at least one placeholder for representing at least one required log file in a log volume and storing the first required log file and the at least one placeholder in a portion of the log volume, wherein the at least one placeholder is used to control a size of the portion of the log volume. |
| US07925845B2 |
Storage apparatus and management unit setting method
A storage apparatus that provides a dynamically extensible virtual volume for a host apparatus that accesses the virtual volume is characterized by including: a management unit setting part for setting a management unit, with which an area for storing data sent from the host apparatus is divided on a predetermined-area basis for management, for a pool area that provides a storage area to be assigned to the virtual volume; and a management unit resetting part for resetting the management unit set by the management unit setting part via analysis of the status of access from the host apparatus to the data at a predetermined time to make the management unit optimum for the status of access from the host apparatus to the data. |
| US07925844B2 |
Memory register encoding systems and methods
Apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed that operate to encode register bits to generate encoded bits such that, for pairs of addresses, an encoded bit to be coupled to a first address in a memory device may be exchanged with an encoded bit to be coupled to a second address in the memory device. Apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed that operate to invert encoded bits in logic circuits in the memory device if original bits were inverted. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US07925840B2 |
Data processing apparatus and method for managing snoop operations
The present invention provides a data processing apparatus and method for managing snoop operations. The data processing apparatus has a plurality of processing units for performing data processing operations requiring access to data in shared memory, with at least two of the processing units having a cache associated therewith for storing a subset of the data for access by that processing unit. A snoop-based cache coherency protocol is employed to ensure data accessed by each processing unit is up-to-date, and when an access request is issued the cache coherency protocol is referenced in order to determine whether a snoop process is required. Snoop control storage is provided which defines a plurality of snoop schemes, each snoop scheme defining a series of snoop phases to be performed to implement the snoop process, and each snoop phase requiring a snoop operation to be performed on either a single cache or multiple caches. When a snoop process is required, a snoop unit is used to reference the snoop control storage in order to identify, having regard to one or more properties of the access request, the snoop scheme to be employed to perform the snoop process. Such an approach provides a great deal of flexibility with regards to how snoop processes are implemented, in particular allowing different snoop schemes to be used dependent on the properties of the access request in question. |
| US07925838B2 |
Directory-based data transfer protocol for multiprocessor system
A system for maintaining data coherency in a multiprocessor system includes a first processor having a cache and a directory, a second processor having a directory, and at least one additional processor having a directory and separate from the first and second processors. The first processor is configured to determine if a data line is not found in the cache of the first processor and forward a request for the data line to the second processor. The second processor is configured to forward the data line from the second processor to the first processor, update the directory of the second processor to reflect the data line being forwarded to the first processor, and forward a directory update message to the at least one additional processor to reflect the data line being forwarded to the first processor. An entry in the directories includes a memory address, a most recent data holder, and a line state. |
| US07925831B2 |
Disk array apparatus and disk array apparatus control method
A journal write unit writes journal data into a third storage device. The journal data includes an identifier of a logical volume in a first storage device into which data has been written, information of a location in which the data is stored in the logical volume, update time which is current time acquired from a timing mechanism, and the data. A second write unit refers to update time of the journal data stored in the third storage device, selects journal data for which a difference between current time acquired from the timing mechanism and the update time is longer than a detection time stored in the third storage device, and writes the data into a place indicated by the location information, in a logical volume in the second storage device in the order of update time in the selected journal data. |
| US07925830B2 |
Storage system for holding a remaining available lifetime of a logical storage region
A disk array includes a drive management unit, which is a program for identifying kinds of disk devices and managing different disk devices separately, and a drive management table for storing information to be utilized by the drive management unit. The disk array further includes a program for managing accumulated time of disk devices. The program includes a drive lifetime setting portion for setting lifetimes of drives, a drive start/stop portion for intentionally starting/stopping ATA disk devices, and an operation time measurement portion for measuring accumulated operation time. Since it is necessary to be conscious of difference in reliability and performance among disk devices when forming a RAID, a drive kind notification unit, which is a program for notifying of the kind of a disk device when forming the RAID, is provided. |
| US07925827B2 |
Method and system for dirty time logging
A method for storing a block in a file system includes attempting to store the block at a location on a disk, where the block is associated with a birth time and is selected from a group consisting of a data block and an indirect block, and updating a dirty time log (DTL) with the birth time if the block is not stored successfully on the disk. |
| US07925826B2 |
System to increase the overall bandwidth of a memory channel by allowing the memory channel to operate at a frequency independent from a memory device frequency
A memory system is provided that increases the overall bandwidth of a memory channel by operating the memory channel at a independent frequency. The memory system comprises a memory hub device integrated in a memory module. The memory hub device comprises a command queue that receives a memory access command from an external memory controller via a memory channel at a first operating frequency. The memory system also comprises a memory hub controller integrated in the memory hub device. The memory hub controller reads the memory access command from the command queue at a second operating frequency. By receiving the memory access command at the first operating frequency and reading the memory access command at the second operating frequency an asynchronous boundary is implemented. Using the asynchronous boundary, the memory channel operates at a maximum designed operating bandwidth, which is independent of the second operating frequency. |
| US07925824B2 |
System to reduce latency by running a memory channel frequency fully asynchronous from a memory device frequency
A memory system is provided that reduces latency by running a memory channel fully asynchronous from a memory device frequency. The memory system comprises a memory hub device integrated in a memory module. The memory hub device comprises a command queue that receives a memory access command from an external memory controller via a memory channel at a first operating frequency. The memory system also comprises a memory hub controller integrated in the memory hub device. The memory hub controller reads the memory access command from the command queue at a second operating frequency. By receiving the memory access command at the first operating frequency and reading the memory access command at the second operating frequency an asynchronous boundary is implemented. The first operating frequency is a maximum designed operating frequency of the memory channel and the first operating frequency is independent of the second operating frequency. |
| US07925814B2 |
Dynamically configurable high speed interconnect using a nonlinear element
A dynamically configurable logic gate includes an input summer for receiving a first input signal and a second input signal to generate a summed input signal. Further the dynamically configurable logic gate includes a nonlinear element that applies a nonlinear function to the summed input signal to produce a nonlinear output signal. The dynamically configurable logic gate output signal corresponds to one of a plurality of different logic gates responsive to adjusting the summed input signal and/or the nonlinear function. In another embodiment, the dynamically configurable logic gate includes feedback to one of the inputs. The dynamically configurable logic gate receives the two inputs and operates as one of a plurality of different logic gate types so as to produce an output signal that corresponds to a memory latch according to a selection of the control signal. An array structure of dynamically configurable logic elements is also disclosed. |
| US07925809B2 |
Systems and methods for storage management in a data processing device
Methods and systems for storage management in a data processing device. The data processing device may be connected to a host computer and it can be in one of two states: disk mode (e.g., docked) or device mode (e.g., undocked). According to an embodiment, a mass storage device associated with a data processing device is divided into two or more segments or virtual volumes, and at least one volume is managed by the device even in a disk mode. In some cases, this makes the device usable while in the docked state and hence it improves the user experience. In some embodiments, an extra software component other than the file system is employed on the device to manage the storage device. Certain volumes may be dynamically increased or decreased while the data processing device is in a disk mode. |
| US07925807B2 |
Dynamic microcode for non-volatile memory
Providing for arbitration and dynamic downloading of microcode at a controller associated with electrically erasable non-volatile memory is described herein. By way of example, a download agent can be provided to a module of such non-volatile memory. Characteristics of the memory module and/or specifications of a host application can be utilized to select one or more memory control modules from a group of such control modules. A selected control module(s) can be installed at the controller via the download agent to provide non-default management of raw memory. Further, arbitration of multiple control modules can be implemented to select among various mechanisms to control/manage raw memory. Arbitration can be based, for instance, on specifications of a host device application. Accordingly, great flexibility and control of raw non-volatile memory can be provided for a host device at an application level. |
| US07925801B2 |
Method and system for protection and security of IO devices using credentials
A method and system for protection and security of IO devices using credential are provided. The system may include at least one consumer arranged to initiate IO requests from the IO device, and the IO requests may include IO capability allocation and additional parameters. The system may also include an IO resource manager (IORM) arranged to translate the IO capability allocation and additional parameters included in said IO request to a set of capability tokens for the consumer or for a group of consumers, to generate a global key to protect the capability tokens, and further arranged to manage the IO device. The system may further include a channel component arranged to transfer and receive the IO request to and from the IO device. |
| US07925797B2 |
System and method for distributing user interface device configurations
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a system having a controller to collect a plurality of User Interface (UI) device configurations, receive a request from a computing device to download one or more of the plurality of UI device configurations, and transmit to the computing device the one or more UI device configurations requested to configure one or more UI devices of the computing device. Other embodiments are disclosed. |
| US07925780B2 |
Method for connecting a wireless device to a remote location on a network
A method for connecting a wireless device to a remote location on a computer network. A beacon signal is transmitted from a beacon unit to a beacon signal receiver circuit disposed with a wireless device. The beacon signal includes components indicative of a first code associated with a remote location and of a second code associated with an attribute of the beacon unit. A first message packet indicative of the first and second codes is transmitted to an intermediate location. A computer database including a plurality of routing information for remote locations on the computer network and a plurality of first codes is accessed. Routing information associated with the first code is retrieved, and a reply packet including the routing information is transmitted to the wireless device. A second message packet is transmitted from the wireless device to a remote location using the routing information. |
| US07925778B1 |
Method and apparatus for providing multicast messages across a data communication network
A method and apparatus for providing multicast messages across a data communication network, the method comprising receiving a multicast message and adding to the multicast message a vector stack including at least one address of a router to which the multicast message is to be sent. The multicast message and the vector stack are then forwarded. At the first router indicated by the vector stack, the next address to which the multicast message is to be sent is read. This is repeated as necessary until the multicast message is received by the final address in the vector stack. The multicast message is then routed to the address indicated in the original multicast message. |
| US07925768B1 |
Method and network for adapting a transaction language for network elements
A method and network for adapting a network management protocol (e.g., TL-1) for various transmission protocol terminologies (e.g., SDH and SONET). A network element operates in one transmission protocol mode and sends network management messages to a network management device in a managing terminology based on another transmission protocol mode. The network management device then translates the network management messages to be presented in a user interface at the network management device to an operating terminology based on the operating transmission protocol mode used by the network element. |
| US07925766B2 |
Method for distributed denial-of-service attack mitigation by selective black-holing in MPLS VPNS
A system and method for aiding the handling of DDoS attacks in which VPN traffic entering an ISP network at some points will be black-holed, while VPN traffic entering the ISP network at other points will be routed, as it should be, to the system-under-attack. Thus, the system-under-attack is made available to some of the user community and made unavailable to suspect portions of the user community. Furthermore, the number of entry points where black-holing of VPN traffic occurs can be selected and changed in real-time during a DDoS attack. |
| US07925765B2 |
Cooperative diagnosis in a wireless LAN
Communication software to aid portable computers monitor, and correct problems accessing a network through a wireless access point. The software controls the exchange of information with other portable computers in the vicinity of the wireless access point. The information exchanged may be used to diagnose problems at the wireless layer, the network layer, the transport layer or the application layer. The information exchanged may provide information about the configuration of computers that successfully or unsuccessfully communicate through the wireless access point. A portable computer receiving this configuration information may compare it to similar information about its own configuration to diagnose problems. Such software may be of particular benefit for portable computers experiencing difficulty connecting to a network at a wireless hot spot. |
| US07925764B2 |
Method, apparatus and computer program product for integrating heterogeneous systems
Disclosed are a method, computer program product and apparatus for integrating resource and coordinator components in a heterogeneous computer system. The technique disclosed involves the introduction of a negotiation phase into the resource enlistment or registration process wherein the resource component and coordinator component request and respond with indicators showing the quality of service that each supports, thus jointly establishing at runtime a quality of service to be supported for the resource and coordinator pairing. The qualities of service may include commit phase support and recovery support. |
| US07925763B2 |
Keeping persistence while switching between modalities when accessing an application service in a network
Disclosed is a method and device for keeping persistency while switching between modalities, which include: (1) searching out the last operation state of the application service accessed by the user from the user history, in response to a request for accessing an application service from a user; (2) connecting to the application service and continuing to execute the application service from the last operation state; (3) updating the last operation state in the user history based on the execution result of the application service. A user could flexibly selects different favorable terminal to continue with unfinished application service by adopting the invention. |
| US07925762B1 |
Roaming support method and systems in UMTS
The invention relates to a communication method and system wherein a network element of a roaming user is attachable to a visited first network and be served by a serving means of the home network. When the network element of the roaming user is registering or initiating a connection to a called network element of the visited network, a network element of the visited network, such as proxy means, either adds information on the called network element or on a service element of the visited network when sending a message to the home network. The message is preferably sent as a protocol message, in particular a message of the Session Initiation Protocol. |
| US07925759B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmission and storage of digital medical data
System for decentralized storage and rapid retrieval of medical data among geographically separate locations, connected by data paths of limited bandwidth, which optimizes transmission therebetween. Medical data is separated into bulk content and metadata. Metadata is transmitted to all locations. Bulk content is copied to selected locations based on desired duplication, available storage, distance, transmission cost, data path bandwidth or utilization, likelihood of retrieval calculated from the metadata, requests to use or prior usage of content or information from a system that manages the content. Transmission rate is limited and bulk content is queued for transmission based on priority calculated from metadata, from requests to use content or information from a system that manages the content. Optimal locations for bulk content are recalculated based on requests to use content, new patient appointments, data path or equipment failures. Copies are made or deleted. Distributed lists of locations for content are updated. |
| US07925756B1 |
Partition configuration and creation mechanisms for network traffic management devices
Partition configuration and creation mechanisms for network traffic management devices. In some implementations, the present invention enhances the predictability of partition hierarchies that use weighting values and fixed rate guarantees. In some implementations, the present invention includes a configuration interface that constrains the manner in which partitions can be configured to achieve predictable and efficient results. In some implementations, the present invention includes a partition creation and deletion layer that operates to dynamically create partitions based on one or more partition patterns. |
| US07925755B2 |
Peer to peer resource negotiation and coordination to satisfy a service level objective
Techniques are provided for allocating resources. Performance metrics for a transaction are received. It is determined whether one or more service level objectives are being violated based on the received performance metrics. In response to determining that the one or more service level objectives are being violated, additional resources are allocated to the transaction. In response to allocating the additional resources, a resource allocation event is published. |
| US07925751B1 |
Mechanism for controlled sharing of files in a clustered application environment
A method and apparatus for operating a plurality of computers is disclosed. A file is maintained on a selected computer of the plurality of computers. An open request for the file is sent by a first computer of the plurality of computers to the selected computer, the open request including a first token. The file is opened for the first computer in response to the open request. An open request is sent for the file by a second computer to the selected computer, the open request including a second token. The first token is compared with the second token. If the first token and the second token match, opening the file for the second computer, and if the first token and the second token do not match, not opening the file for the second computer. |
| US07925748B2 |
System and method for managing system resources in a network environment
A method for managing system resources in a network environment. The method begins by reading from a first log timestamp Ti for i=1, 2, . . . , I, where each Ti comprises a timestamp corresponding to a unique request to utilize system resources. After reading timestamps, calculating estimated response Ei for i=1, 2, . . . , I, according to a function. After calculating estimated responses, the method continues by calculating actual response Ri for i=1, 2, . . . , I, according to a function Ri=Ei−Ti. After calculating all actual responses; storing each actual response in a second log. The second log comprising both timestamp Ti and actual response Ri for i=1, 2, . . . , I. |
| US07925741B2 |
Black-box host stack latency measurement
A method comprises sniffing an input from a client device to a host device and an output from the host device to the client device; recording a first time parameter in response to a characteristic data unit being inserted into the input that is outputted from a host stack of a host device; recording a second time parameter in response to the output that comprises the characteristic data unit being received by the host stack; and measuring a latency based on the first time parameter, the second time parameter and arrival time of the input and the output at a sniffing point. |
| US07925740B2 |
System and method for service quality management for wireless devices
A system and method for detecting and recording events related to the quality of service experienced by a wireless device in a wireless network. In one example, these events may be detected and recorded by the wireless device, without support from the network. Performance monitoring tests may be initiated by the wireless device at the direction of a management server, independent of the network in which the device may be operating. The wireless device may store the results of these tests and report the results to the management server. |
| US07925733B2 |
Generating unique object identifiers for network management objects
Embodiments of the inventive subject matter use a radix-like counting technique to generate unique object identifiers (OIDs) for managed objects in accordance with a network management protocol. A limit value is utilized to ensure prefix uniqueness for an allocated object identifier. For a level in a managed objects tree with a maximum value of MAX, a suffix MAX-2 will be allocated for a unique object identifier and a suffix MAX-1 will be extended to allow allocation of unique object identifiers with MAX-1 in the prefix, while the suffix MAX-2 will not occur in a prefix for a unique object identifier. Embodiments of the inventive subject matter allow for generation of unique object identifiers in constant bound time O(1). Additionally, the number of OIDs generated is not limited by the maximum value of an integer 232−1. |
| US07925732B2 |
Automatic hardware failure detection and recovery for distributed max sessions server
A Max Sessions Server (MSS) automatically detects hardware and communications failures. Upon detection, counters are adjusted accordingly to maintain an accurate count of users or groups of users on a system. A database of unique identifiers for each connection is maintained, where the unique identifier is a concatenation of a Network Access Server (NAS) and the connection's incoming NAS node number. If a user requests permission to log into the system, the MSS first checks the database to determine if the unique identifier is already logged in. If so, then a hardware or communications failure has occurred and the MSS must make the appropriate adjustments to the database and counter. |
| US07925731B2 |
System and method for providing SNMP data for virtual networking devices
A system and method of managing networks and, more particularly, to a system and method for interfacing with virtual networking devices using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). A system comprises a configuration statement configured to provide an identity to a virtual device. An SNMP subagent is configured to interface between an SNMP agent and a control program of the virtual device. The SNMP subagent acquires information extracted by the control program for the identified virtual device and provides the acquired information to the SNMP agent to be returned to the SNMP client. |
| US07925727B2 |
Method and apparatus for efficient communication of management data in a telecommunications network
A mediator for efficiently exchanging management data in a hierarchical management network for managing network elements of a data transport network partitions resources of the network elements among a plurality of management representations of the network elements and selectively forwards management data associated with respective management representations to a higher level of the hierarchy. The mediator modifies the management data so that the higher level (i.e. a northbound element management system or a network management system) receives the management data in a view consistent with the management representation of the network element. Client-based management representations may be created to permit clients to manage selected resources of a network element, and testing-based management representations may be created to facilitate concurrent testing of a network element. |
| US07925722B1 |
Method and apparatus for discovery and installation of network devices through a network
A method and apparatus of discovering and installing managed appliances remotely using a protocol for communication on the network is described. The protocol permits a client workstation to issue a broadcast message on the network. The managed appliances will send a reply message to the workstation which includes their current IP configuration. If a managed appliance has not been properly configured, the workstation can remotely instruct the managed appliance to set its IP configuration as desired. In the event that the managed appliance is a KVM switch, the managed appliance can store information about the servers connected to it. This information can be requested by and reported to the workstation using the protocol. |
| US07925714B2 |
Remote operation program, method and terminal apparatus
A remote-operated unit of a user terminal apparatus remote-operated through network from a remote terminal apparatus of a support staff sends image information of a changed portion to the remote terminal apparatus to display a business screen in an interlocked manner when a change is detected in the business screen displayed by a business processing unit with an image-information transmission unit. When an operation-information reception unit receives remote operation information of a mouse or keyboard from the remote terminal apparatus, a remote-operation prohibited region management unit refers to a remote-operation prohibited region table and prohibits remote operation if the remote operation information is within the operation prohibited region. |
| US07925713B1 |
Method for operating an integrated point of presence server network
A method for operating a network of point of presence servers includes receiving a request from a user for a web page at a first web address, determining traffic loads of a plurality of customer web servers, determining a customer web server from the plurality of customer web servers, the customer web server having a traffic load lower than traffic loads of remaining customer web servers, directing the request from the user to the customer web server, receiving a request from the user for static content on the web page at a second web address, determining the point of presence server from the network of point of presence servers that is appropriate for the request, the point of presence server having service metrics more appropriate than service metrics of remaining point of presence servers from the network. |
| US07925709B1 |
Bulk message identification
Distinctively treating digital communications sent by bulk message senders includes providing a set of bulk sender behavior policies and monitoring compliance by a bulk message sender with the set of policies. Based on compliance by the bulk message sender with the set of policies, digital communications sent by the bulk message sender are distinctively treated. |
| US07925706B2 |
Filtering electronic messages
A method for handling electronic messages comprising: determining if a stored email addressed to a user includes an identifier; determining by an email server if an email addressed to a user includes an identifier; determining if the identifier is valid upon determining the email includes the identifier; and filtering the email upon determining either the email does not include the identifier or the identifier is not valid. |
| US07925704B2 |
Method and system for a reliable distributed category-specific do-not-contact list
A computer implemented method comprising receiving a list of one or more contact points from a sender and comparing the list of one or more contact points to a satellite server's do-not-contact list. Any contact point on the list of one or more contact points that appears on the satellite server's do-not-contact list is reported to the sender. The satellite server's do-not-contact list is generated from a do-not-contact list distributed by a master server. A registrant registers with the master server to provide a registrant contact point to be on the do-not-contact list to be distributed by the master server. The contact points in the registry may be organized in a hierarchy with preferences at one or more levels. |
| US07925701B2 |
Mobile communication terminal supporting information sharing
According to a method of sharing information between mobile terminals, a first mobile terminal receives information, such as a web page, which may include form data, and shares the information with one or more second mobile terminals. Input data relevant to the shared information as entered at the second mobile terminals is returned to the first mobile terminal, which consolidates that data with related input data entered at the first mobile terminal. Consolidated information may be sent from the first mobile terminal to the second mobile terminal(s), so that each of the mobile terminals maintains updated consolidated input data, and this process may be repeated as needed. In at least one embodiment, the information to be shared is provided by a third party information provider, and the first mobile terminal is configured to return the finally consolidated data to the third party information provider. |
| US07925699B2 |
Technique for reliable message confirmation
A technique for exchanging messages in a computer network using a public data template and a message transfer protocol with interdependent request and confirmation messages is described. A request message includes a first data structure obtained by packing application data that requires confirmation in the public data template. A network component receiving the request message unpacks the application data and provides the unpacked application data to a confirmation process. At the same time, the unpacked application data provided to the confirmation process is repacked in the public data template to generate a second data structure. The second data structure is sent with a confirmation message via the computer network to the sender of the request message. By comparing the content of the first data structure with the content of the second data structure, inconsistencies degrading the accuracy and trustworthiness of the confirmation process may be detected. |
| US07925696B2 |
Transparent request routing for a partitioned application service
Systems and methods for providing an efficient partitioned resource server. In one embodiment, the partitioned resource server comprises a plurality of individual servers, and the individual servers appear to be equivalent to a client. Each of the individual servers may include a routing table that includes a reference for each resource that is maintained on the partitioned resource server. Requests from a client are processed as a function of the routing table to route the request to the individual server that maintains or has control over the resource of interest. |
| US07925695B2 |
Accessing content related to the exploration and production of geologic resources in a thin client computer network
Embodiments are provided for accessing content generated by a securely hosted application program for the exploration and production of geologic resources on a thin client system in a client/server computer network. A determination is made of a least utilized node in the client/server computer network for executing an application program selected via the client system. The selected application program is executed on the least utilized node for accessing the content generated by the selected application program on the client system. |
| US07925694B2 |
Systems and methods for managing cookies via HTTP content layer
The cookie management system and methods of the present solution address issues with rewriting cookie headers by handling cookies in the content layer of HTTP instead of the HTTP transaction layer. The present solution maintains cookie information for a browser via an intermediary and installs the correct cookie parameters in the browser via the HTTP content layer. Instead of using the headers of the HTTP transaction layer which may cause issues due to rewriting, the present solution manages the cookies outside of this layer. This avoids the browser managing the cookies incorrectly. Set cookies headers served from a server in response to client HTTP requests are removed by the intermediary. Cookie information from the headers are stored in a cookie jar on the intermediary. The intermediary delivers instructions and scripts via the content layer of the HTTP response to set the cookie in the browser. The scripts detect browser changes to the cookie and communicates the changes to the intermediary to update the cookie jar. With the present solution, the domain and path names of a cookie are set correctly on the browser when delivering content via a reverse proxy. |
| US07925693B2 |
NAT access control with IPSec
An architecture that can provide for improved network content filtering is described herein. In particular, access to remote resources can be controlled by a remote mechanism. In accordance therewith, a gateway can seamlessly and/or transparently redirect packets from a client that are meant for an intended destination to an access control component. The access control component can determine whether the client has access to the resources requested. In addition, the gateway can provide IPSec features on behalf to the client. |
| US07925692B2 |
Method and system for testing internet software
A simulated internet is connected to a corporate network to more easily and effectively facilitate testing the impact of internet security devices and settings on internet software. The simulated internet has communications pathways between two firewall devices, a web proxy and a publishing firewall, that also protect the corporate network. A test web server on the corporate network is published to the simulated internet by the publishing firewall through reverse proxy as a unique internet name that only exists on the simulated internet One or more test client machines on the corporate network are configured to use the forward proxy firewall of the corporate web proxy to access the unique internet name. With this configuration all the pieces are in place for what the Internet does, except the simulated internet is a private internet under the control of the software tester. |
| US07925691B2 |
System and method for facilitating ease of use of a web page user interface
A system and method for facilitating ease of use of a user interface which monitors usage of a Web page to discern usage patterns associated with the Web page. The discerned usage patterns associated with the Web page are then used to form a plurality of user interface types each functioning to provide to the Web page predetermined content. A user selects one of the plurality of user interface types whereupon, in response to a subsequent request from the user to view the Web page, the Web page is provided to the user with the select one of the plurality of user interface types. |
| US07925689B2 |
Method and system for providing on-line interactivity over a server-client network
Apparatus and a method for communicating media over a network including encoding the media into a server database at a server, downloading from the server database to a client database generally only those portions of the media which are necessary to satisfy user requests and in response to a user request for a given item of media, determining whether the media is present in the client database, and if not, automatically downloading those portions of the media which are necessary to supply the user with the given item of media from the server database. An image server is provided including at least one processor operative to supply portions of image data to clients in response to multiple requests therefrom, and thread management software operating the at least one processor by causing it to process the requests using at least one of a plurality of threads, the thread management software being characterized in that it initiates a new thread when an existing thread has exceeded a predetermined metric of busyness. |
| US07925684B2 |
Method and apparatus for distributing random elements
Apparatus for distributing valid random elements, including at least a first module and a second module. The first module is connected to a provider of valid random elements and to the second module. The first module includes a controller that passes valid random elements from the first module to the second module. |
| US07925683B2 |
Methods and apparatus for content-aware data de-duplication
The systems and methods partition digital data units in a content aware fashion without relying on any ancestry information, which enables one to find duplicate chunks in unrelated units of digital data even across millions of documents spread across thousands of computer systems. |
| US07925682B2 |
System and method utilizing virtual folders
A system and method utilizing virtual folders. The virtual folders expose regular files and folders to users in different views based on their metadata instead of the actual physical underlying file system structure on the disk. The virtual folders contain collections of items. The system includes a folder processor that obtains queries from a user and a relational database for storing information about the items. The folder processor first obtains a query from a user and passes the query to the relational database. The relational database provides results back to the folder processor, and based on the results from the relational database, the folder processor provides the results to the user as virtual folders. Users are able to work with the virtual folders through direct manipulation (e.g., clicking and dragging, copying, pasting, etc.). |
| US07925679B2 |
System and program for result set management
Disclosed is a technique for result set management. One or more result sets are stored. Each result set was generated by executing a query. When at least one of a number of result sets that may be stored and a number of bucket tables that may hold result sets is modified, it is determined whether any of the one or more result sets are to be removed. When it is determined that one or more of the result sets are to be removed, those result sets are removed. |
| US07925678B2 |
Customized reporting and mining of event data
Event data (e.g., log messages) are represented as sets of attribute/value pairs. An index maps each attribute/value pair or attribute/value tuple to a pointer that points to event data which contains the attribute/value pair or attribute/value tuple. An attribute co-occurrence map or matrix can be generated that includes attribute names that co-occur together. Queries and custom reports can be generated by projecting event data into one or more attributes or attribute/value pairs, and then determining statistics on other attributes using a combination of the inverted index, the attribute co-occurrence map or matrix, operations on sets and/or math and statistical functions. |
| US07925677B2 |
Geographic feature name reduction using phonetic algorithms
Embodiments of the present invention concern a way of using geographic-phonetic strings, such as modified geographic-phonetic strings, for constructing a geographic database for use with geographic applications. |
| US07925674B2 |
Management of a distributed database
Systems, methodologies, media, and other embodiments associated with managing of a distributed database are described. One exemplary system embodiment includes an input logic configured to obtain information associated with a distributed database where the distributed database comprises a plurality of databases. An analysis logic analyzes the information obtained from the distributed database to determine performance information associated with the distributed database and, an output logic can provide information regarding the performance information associated with the distributed database. |
| US07925673B2 |
Method and system for knowledge based community solutions
Systems and methods for providing knowledge and online access to knowledge resources to users are disclosed. Features embodied in various embodiments include: 1) linking members of communities with mentors and subject matter experts that can help the member derive value from their online experience; 2) assessing and delivering online knowledge at a participant level; 3) pushing knowledge resources to participants based on the participant profile; 4) creating and updating an online personal growth plan; and 5) tracking value by participant or by community, as required by community leadership. |
| US07925665B2 |
Using query persistence for efficient subquery evaluation in federated databases
The processing of a query that is submitted to a central controlling server where the central controlling server sources data from one or more backend databases and where such data is referenced by subqueries associated with the query is disclosed. |
| US07925663B2 |
Searching an electronic filing system using a handwritten search query and a text search query
A method of providing an electronic filing system which is searchable using a handwritten search query, the method including the steps of: obtaining the handwritten search query using an input device; performing a search of at least one database based on a comparison between the handwritten search query and handwritten annotations made on interactive pages stored in the at least one database; and, providing the results of the search to a user and facilitating access to at least one interactive page identified in the results of the search. An apparatus is also disclosed. Preferably, the interactive page is provided to the user in the form of printed paper, and the handwritten annotations are user handwriting, symbols, drawings, indicia or the like. |
| US07925662B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating CSV-formatted extract file
Methods, systems, apparatus and computer-readable media are disclosed for generating extract files. A first example method is disclosed for generating an extract file. The method includes receiving a data request and analyzing the data request to identify at least one record of at least one file containing data associated with the data request. The method also includes extracting the identified records and formatting the identified records according to a comma separated value format. The method further includes outputting an extract file containing the formatted records. Other methods, apparatus, systems and computer readable media are disclosed for generating extract files. |
| US07925659B2 |
Business process change analysis and test case adaptation based on change detection
Methods and apparatuses enable comparing a current system configuration of a test system with a previous system configuration to determine whether differences exist between the two configurations and information about the technical objects used when performing a business transaction. The comparison can be performed via configuration metadata available for both the current and previous system configurations. A comparison result is generated to indicate any differences between the two system configurations. In one embodiment, the comparison result is used to identify a parameter of a test component that is affected by the differences in system configuration. Based on the differences in system configuration, the affected parameter is adapted by a test manager. A test case is updated based on the adapted test component responsive to the detected difference. Thus, the test system can be dynamic and adaptive. |
| US07925658B2 |
Methods and apparatus for mapping a hierarchical data structure to a flat data structure for use in generating a report
Methods and apparatus for generating a report from hierarchically formatted data are disclosed. First, a data source including one or more files having a hierarchical file format is identified, where each of the files includes one or more data elements. A relational database model is obtained, where the relational database model includes one or more virtual tables, each of the virtual tables including one or more virtual columns. The relational database model is then mapped to the hierarchical file format. A query may be obtained using the virtual relational database. Data is then obtained from the virtual relational database corresponding to the query, thereby enabling a report including the data to be generated. |
| US07925656B2 |
Node level hash join for evaluating a query
Markup language node level hash join operations for evaluating a query language query are performed. The markup language node level hash join mechanism, i.e. the “XHashJoin” operator, is a multi-way join operator that uses two hash tables, BUILD and PROBE, to intersect document nodes from multiple index scans and to buffer intermediate query results. The BUILD hash table stores document nodes matching the predicates of a query, and buffers document nodes satisfying extraction nodes, of each portion of the query up to a current portion of the query being evaluated. The BUILD hash table and the PROBE hash table are switched at each portion of the query being evaluated. Query results are generated by linking document nodes buffered in the BUILD hash table based on the semantics of each extraction node. |
| US07925655B1 |
Query scheduling using hierarchical tiers of index servers
An information retrieval system uses phrases to index, retrieve, organize and describe documents. Phrases are extracted from the document collection. Documents are the indexed according to their included phrases, using phrase posting lists. The phrase posting lists are stored in an cluster of index servers. The phrase posting lists can be tiered into groups, and sharded into partitions. Phrases in a query are identified based on possible phrasifications. A query schedule based on the phrases is created from the phrases, and then optimized to reduce query processing and communication costs. The execution of the query schedule is managed to further reduce or eliminate query processing operations at various ones of the index servers. |
| US07925654B1 |
Apparatus and method for perusing selected vehicles having a clean title history
A system and method for allowing a consumer to search a database containing used vehicles from a variety of sellers that can be queried to provide search results that include only vehicles having clean title histories. |
| US07925651B2 |
Ranking items by optimizing ranking cost function
A dependency structure is used to divide samples corresponding to items to be ranked into leaf nodes, based on the rank of the items. The dependency structure is trained by splitting or merging training data received at given nodes based on selected features and selected thresholds for those features. A metric is then calculated which is indicative of performance of the node, in splitting the data. The trained structure is then used during runtime to rank items. |
| US07925648B2 |
Dynamically selecting alternative query access plans
A query access plan for executing a database query is dynamically selected from among multiple alternative query access plans based on the availability of computer resources allocated for running the query. Preferably, a first query access plan is generated based on resources then available, and if it is possible to provide additional resources, one or more alternative plans are generated based on the additional resources. If an alternative plan is significantly better than the original plan based on a comparison of query related parameters, the alternative is chosen for executing the query. Additional resources for running the query may be provided from logically partitioned and/or grid environments. |
| US07925647B2 |
Techniques for optimizing SQL statements using user-defined indexes with auxiliary properties
In one embodiment, a database server registers one or more functions included in a user-defined index that includes one or more auxiliary properties. The database server receives a query that specifies one or more parameters. A query optimizer generates a plurality of execution plans for evaluating the query. The query optimizer estimates a plurality of total costs respectively associated with the plurality of execution plans, where estimating a particular total cost associated with a particular execution plan comprises: invoking the one or more functions with one or more function arguments based on the one or more parameters; receiving one or more index costs that are associated with using the one or more auxiliary properties of the user-defined index to evaluate the query; and determining the particular total cost based on the one or more index costs. From the plurality of execution plans, the query optimizer selects an optimal execution plan that is associated with an optimal total cost of the plurality of total costs. |
| US07925644B2 |
Efficient retrieval algorithm by query term discrimination
A method and system for use in information retrieval includes, for each of a plurality of terms, selecting a predetermined number of top scoring documents for the term to form a corresponding document set for the term. When a plurality of terms are received, optionally as a query, the system ranks, using an inverse document frequency algorithm, the plurality of terms for importance based on the document sets for the plurality of terms. Then a number of ranked terms are selected based on importance and a union set is formed based on the document sets associated with the selected number of ranked terms. |
| US07925640B2 |
Dynamic multiple inheritance method dispatch data structure including an m-table size, i-table containing one or more holder addressor regions and type extension testing by frugal perfect hashing
In the described embodiments, a computer constructs a dispatch data structure for a holder by first determining a set of member holders from which the holder inherits. The computer then constructs an “i-table” that includes holder addressor regions that each contains addressors for an associated set of members. Each of the holder addressor regions is associated with an i-table index. The computer next collects a set of identification numbers for the set of member holders and, from these, constructs an “m-table.” The size of the m-table is selected to perfectly hash the set of identification numbers by the m-table size. The computer then computes an m-table index for each of the set of identification numbers modulo the m-table size and uses the m-table index to populate the m-table. The computer next stores the i-table index in the m-table in accordance with the m-table index. |
| US07925625B2 |
Synchronizing data between business applications
Architecture for synchronizing data between business applications according to a multi-master arrangement. Changes to business entities can be snapshot changes, delta changes, and long-running process changes, the latter which can be derived from the first two. The architecture includes automatic error retry logic, such that when synchronization errors occur, the logic can be replayed to resolve the errors, when conditions have changed where the errors can be resolved. This also applies to when one error causes a cascading set of errors. By replaying one error, the other errors will be resolved. Backup and restore of a participating application is also provided such that a new data change in a non-backup-restored application will automatically be synchronized to the recently-restored system. |
| US07925617B2 |
Efficiency in processing queries directed to static data sets
Data is maintained indicating which conditions match which data items (e.g., rows) of a data set (e.g., table(s) in a database). When a query is later received, the maintained data is quickly examined to determine the matching data items, thereby enhancing the throughput performance in processing queries directed to the data set. |
| US07925616B2 |
Report system and method using context-sensitive prompt objects
A reporting system that incorporates a context sensitive prompt object in a report definition to enable questions to be answered automatically by the reporting system (e.g., decision support system, business intelligence and OLAP) at report execution time. The context sensitive prompt object is an object separate from the report such that the context sensitive prompt object may be used by a plurality of different reports. The answer is defined at least in part by a contextual feature of the report execution. |
| US07925614B2 |
Method and structure to isolate a qubit from the environment
A method (and structure) of coupling a qubit includes locating the qubit near a transmission line approximately at a location corresponding to a node at a predetermined frequency. |
| US07925611B1 |
Graphical user interface
The present invention relates to systems and methods that facilitates rendering of data in an industrial automation environment. According to an aspect of the invention, a device analyzer can determine properties associated with a plurality of devices intended for delivery of data. An HMI generator can format the data respectively in accordance with the determined properties of the devices and deliver the formatted data to the respective devices. |
| US07925608B2 |
Fault diagnostics
A method of fault diagnostics in a case based reasoning system, wherein said case based reasoning system comprises a plurality of cases, each case having an associated solution and a case weight, said method comprising the steps of: receiving data associated with a fault; determining a case match indicative of the degree of matching between the received data and each of the plurality of cases; providing a solution associated with one of the plurality of cases in dependence on its case match and case weight; receiving an actual solution to the fault; increasing the case weight of the case associated with the provided solution if the actual solution is equal to the provided solution; and adding a new case to the plurality of cases if the actual solution is not equal to the provided solution, wherein the actual solution is associated with the new case. |
| US07925606B1 |
Monitoring physical locations using rules and events processing
A monitoring system is provided. The monitoring system comprises a first storage queue containing rules ready for processing, an event storage containing events, and a plurality of first processor threads configured to execute any one of the rules contained in the first storage queue based on the contents of the event storage. The system also comprises a rules processor configured to receive a plurality of events from a plurality of monitored locations, to add the event to the event storage, to remove a first rule from the first storage queue, to provide the first rule to one of the first processor threads for executing, to receive a first result from the one of the first processor threads, and to send a first notification based on the first result. |
| US07925604B2 |
Adaptive greedy method for ordering intersecting of a group of lists into a left-deep AND-tree
The embodiments of the invention provide a method of ordering an intersecting of a group of lists into a left-deep AND-tree. The method begins by performing a first selecting process including selecting a top list, corresponding to a top leaf of the left-deep AND-tree, from the group of lists to leave remaining lists of the group of lists. The top list can be the smallest list of the group of lists. The method can also select a pair of lists from the group of lists, such that the pair of lists has the smallest intersection size relative to other pairs of lists of the group of lists. Next, the method estimates intersections of the remaining lists with the top list by estimating an amount of intersection between the remaining lists and the top list. This involves sampling a portion of the remaining lists. The method also includes identifying larger list pairs having smaller intersections sizes when compared to smaller list pairs having larger intersections sizes. |
| US07925599B2 |
Direction-aware proximity for graph mining
A method and system for graph mining direction-aware proximity measurements. A directed graph includes nodes and directed edges connecting the nodes. A direction-aware proximity measurement is calculated from a first node to a second node or from a first group of nodes to a second group of nodes. The direction-aware proximity measurement from a first node to second node is based on an escape probability from the first node to the second node. Disclosed herein are methods for efficiently calculating one or multiple direction-aware proximity measurements. The direction-aware proximity measurements can be used in performing various graph mining applications. |
| US07925594B2 |
System and method for providing framework for business process improvement
A method for developing a process roadmap for a business system is disclosed. The method includes identifying a business process and determining business goals and key process metrics for the business process. The method further includes measuring process maturity levels of the business process and identifying business process improvement initiatives based on the process maturity levels. Furthermore, the method includes linking the business process to at least one of the business goals and key process metrics, the process maturity levels, and the business process improvement initiatives for developing the process roadmap for the business system. |
| US07925592B1 |
System and method of using a proxy server to manage lazy content distribution in a social network
A proxy server and corresponding method are provided for managing the controlled distribution of digital content as it propagates through a social network. A proxy server receives digital content and associated distribution parameters from an originating peer. The distribution parameters define access rights for n allowable levels of possible network distribution. After other peers are invited to share the digital content or the invited peers request access to the digital content, the proxy server generates a rights-managed form of the requested digital content in accordance with the access rights established by the originating peer for the level associated with the requesting peer(s). The proxy server forwards a copy of a content key and other content identifiers to an associated license server and then sends the rights-managed form of digital content to the requesting peer(s). |
| US07925590B2 |
Multimedia search engine
Described herein is a search engine that can include a receiver component that receives a query from a user that pertains to a multimedia item and an output component that outputs multiple choices for receiving an instance of the multimedia item to a user. The multiple choices may include a first choice for receiving a first instance of the multimedia item for no charge, wherein the first instance of the multimedia item includes a digital rights management restriction. The multiple choices may also include a second choice for receiving a second instance of the multimedia item for a fee, wherein the second instance of the multimedia item is free of digital rights management restrictions. The search engine can further include a transmitter component that transmits one of the first multimedia item or the second multimedia item to the user. |
| US07925589B2 |
Systems and methods for authorizing account access
The present invention provides systems and methods for authorizing access to one or more financial accounts. In some cases, the methods include providing an authorization document that incorporates a passcode. A request to authorize access to an account is received from an owner of the account. As part of the request, the passcode is provided. Based at least in part on the passcode, access to the account is authorized. In other cases, authorization can be provided via a representative of the account owner. |
| US07925587B2 |
Real time account update
A method is used in a system that includes a financial service provider coordinating accounts issued by an issuer to cardholders requesting credit from merchants. The method can be performed by a merchant sending a transmission to its acquirer including a request for a transaction against one account to which the merchant receives a denial or prior to receiving such a denial. The merchant then requests information from the financial service provider who responds by sending the requested information, upon which the merchant determines whether to extend the credit. When the method is performed by a financial service provider, in response to the denial received by one merchant or prior to such denial, the financial service provider receives a transmission from the merchant including a request for information about the account. In response, the financial service provider sends the merchant the requested information. |
| US07925585B2 |
Systems and methods for facilitating transactions with different account issuers
A financial account issuer facilitating transactions between accounts is disclosed. The invention provides sellers with an irrevocable method of receiving funds from a purchaser and for improving purchaser willingness to transact with an unknown party. The invention also includes the options of interest payments, the use of different account issuers, different financial accounts, budget transfers, spend compartmentalization, cost-splitting, adjusting credit limits, loans, gifting, intermediary facilitating the transaction, transaction tracking, rapid funds availability, confidential transfer of funds, immediate initiation of shipment by a seller, releasing funds to a seller only after approval of the goods, services, or other value, demonstrating proof of payment, and recourse against a remote seller. |
| US07925583B2 |
Method and system for dynamically adjusting discount rates for a card transaction
According to one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method and a system for dynamically adjusting discount rates for a closed loop transaction. A computer implemented method for dynamically adjusting discount rates for a card transaction comprises the steps of identifying credit worthiness of at least one consumer; assigning a credit level to a line of credit associated with a credit product for the at least one consumer wherein the credit product is accepted at an identified one or more merchants; assigning a financing charge to the line of credit; determining a discount rate based at least in part on the credit worthiness of the at least one consumer; and applying the discount rate when at least one transaction is made with the credit product; wherein the applied discount rate is adjusted based on the credit worthiness of the at least one consumer. |
| US07925582B1 |
Credit score simulation
Systems and methods are described that simulate a credit score. The system enables a user to modify a credit data element in order to determine its effect on a credit score. The user can modify the element directly or simulate an action that, if performed, would modify the element. Since the number of possible modifications and actions can be overwhelming, in one embodiment, the system suggests modifications and actions to be simulated. These suggestions can be tailored to a user's goal, such as increasing a credit score by a particular number of points or allocating a particular sum of money in order to maximize a credit score. In one embodiment, the system obtains credit data from multiple credit bureaus and can determine credit scores using different algorithms, such as the different algorithms used by the different credit bureaus. |
| US07925579B1 |
System and method for processing a loan
A method of managing pipeline risk comprises processing a plurality of mortgage loan applications and managing pipeline risk based on status information for the mortgage loan applications. The processing is performed by a computer-implemented workflow engine responsive to user inputs. The processing includes prompting a user to perform tasks that need to be performed in connection with the mortgage loan applications and maintaining status information relating to status of the tasks that need to be performed. The pipeline risk is managed based on the status information for the mortgage loan applications maintained by the workflow engine. |
| US07925577B2 |
System and method for establishing and providing access to various types of online accounts
A method of providing an account is provided. The method includes receiving identification information associated with a user during a communication session. The method further includes communicating a request for credit information. The request includes at least a portion of the identification information. The method further includes receiving the requested credit information, and for each of a plurality of different types of accounts, determining whether to approve that type of account based at least in part on the received credit information. The method further includes communicating an indication of at least a portion of the approved types of accounts, and receiving a selection of at least one of the approved types of accounts. The method further includes opening at least one of the selected types of accounts and providing access to at least one of the opened accounts during the communication session. |
| US07925569B2 |
Electronic trading system having increased liquidity provision
An anonymous trading system includes a prime broker facility that allows a third party to trade on behalf of an institution. A deal is executed between the third party and a counter-party and a further deal is then executed between the third party and the party on whose behalf it has traded. The second deal may be for the same amount as the first deal or may be altered to include the third party's fee for conducting the first deal. Clients of the third party have prices available to them for trades made via the third party which are displayed at their trader terminals. The client sees that a better price is available though the third party than by dealing direct and selects to conduct a deal through the third party. |
| US07925567B2 |
System and method for business to investor exchange for raising capital and for creating a secondary market for private equity
The present invention creates a secondary market in private equities by auctioning venture-backed private equities over the Internet to qualified investors. Typical sources for the private equities will be interests in limited partnerships and pre-IPO or pulled-IPO securities. The operator of the system may sometimes take a position in certain private equities so as to have “inventory” to later sell on the system. In a typical buyer-driven transaction using the present invention, a qualified buyer puts out a bid for private assets in a particular area. Sellers who subscribe to the system receive notice of the bid and can then respond. In a typical seller-driven transaction using the present invention, a seller puts out a notice on the system of equities for sale. Buyers who subscribe to the system receive notice and can respond. Either the buyer or the seller may be charged by the system, depending on the transaction. |
| US07925564B2 |
Computer system and method for determining optimal asset allocation
A computer system is provided for selecting an asset allocation for an investment portfolio intended to produce a target payout starting at a target date. The computer system is programmed to receive inputs that may relate to the target payout, the target date and a nominal rate of contributions to the investment portfolio. The computer system calculates at least one thousand simulated investment outcomes based on assumed investment return rates and assumed inflation rates. The assumed investment return rates and assumed inflation rates are randomly selected in multi-year clusters from historical data. The computer system selects the asset allocation based on relative performance of the assumed asset allocations in the simulated investment outcomes. |
| US07925562B2 |
NAV and IIV pricing for actively managed exchange traded funds
An ETF pricing mechanism for use in managed Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) or other collective investment vehicle (CIV) that retains the confidentiality of the vehicle's assets. The method of pricing may comprise: selecting a security price for each portfolio security, wherein each selected security price is associated with a time offset within a pricing interval, and wherein the time offsets are not identical for all of the selected security prices; generating a plurality of partial price components based on the selected security prices; determining a intra-day indicative value (IIV) of a CIV share in response to the plurality of partial price components; and, publishing the determined IIV. |
| US07925560B2 |
Systems and methods for valuing a derivative involving a multiplicative index
Methods for calculating a value of a derivative based on a multiplicative index, where the multiplicative index is a multiple of an underlying index. The methods may comprise the steps of providing a first value of the underlying index and estimating a ratio of the multiplicative index over the underlying index as a first function of the underlying index over a first range of values of the underlying index. The method may also comprise the steps of calculating at least one parameter of the first function by comparing the first function to historical values of the multiplicative index and the underlying index. In addition, the method may comprise the steps of calculating a first value for the ratio given the first value of the underlying index, and calculating the value of the derivative for the first value of the ratio. |
| US07925558B2 |
System and method for commoditizing browsing time in a self-service store
A system and method commoditize browsing time in a self-service store for a communication carrier. The method comprises communicating with a user, enabling the user to browse the store, tracking the amount of time the user spends browsing the store, calculating a charge, if any, for the amount of time the user spent browsing the store, and, if a charge is incurred, charging the user's account for such charge. In one embodiment, the self-service store is a voice store in which a user calls into the store. However, the invention is not limited to voice stores, and the invention could apply to stores accessed via text messaging, the web, etc. Communication with a user can be initiated by the user or by the self-service system. |
| US07925556B1 |
Streaming conversion
A system for streaming conversion of data from a first system to a second system. The system comprises an extractor component, a translator component, and a loader component. The extractor component is operable to extract a unit of data from the first system. The translator component is operable to convert the unit of data from a first data format compatible with the first system to a second data format compatible with the second system. The loader component is operable to load the unit of data converted to the second data format into the second system, the extractor, the translator, and loader components operable for conversion of the unit of data during normal operation of the first and second systems. |
| US07925555B2 |
Master system of record
A method and apparatus containing a single master system of record that provides a record of all paper and electronic transactions during a predetermined period of time, that provides capability for directing the retrieval of images stored in multiple and distributed owned and un-owned archives, and that provides a link to all assisting transaction informational data and images, e.g. e-signature, pictures, and handwriting is provided. |
| US07925544B2 |
Method, medium, and system for universal shopping cart order injection and payment determination
A universal shopping cart is provided that obtains and orders products and services from different merchants located on the Internet. The consumer completes all of their shopping on the shopping site and is not directed to another merchant's site to complete an order. The universal shopping cart provides a monitoring service that allows the consumer to monitor a product for specified criteria. The order injection system places orders for products contained within the universal shopping cart from affiliated and non-affiliated merchants. Specific ordering details required from merchants external to the shopping site are hidden from the consumer. For external merchant sites that require a consumer account before allowing the product to be purchased, the shopping site creates a new consumer account without intervention from the consumer. Once the products are ordered, the consumer may keep track of the ordered products from the shopping site. |
| US07925536B2 |
Intelligent video verification of point of sale (POS) transactions
Non video data regarding a point of sale (POS) transaction is received. POS primitives are generated based on the received non video POS data. Video data regarding a corresponding POS transaction is received. Video primitives are generated based on the received video data. An exceptional transaction is inferred based on a corresponding exceptional transaction rule and at least one of the generated POS primitives or video primitives. |
| US07925530B2 |
System for and method of facilitating sales activities, and program generator for generating a program for realizing the same
In response to a request from a terminal, a sales-force server creates a page for providing information regarding sales activities, and sends the created page to the terminal. An e-mail server sends an e-mail including a word(s) registered in a first word table to a new addressee. The sales-force server provides the terminal with data corresponding to a predetermined number of sales tools whose usage frequency is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. The sales-force server provides a staff terminal used by at least one sales staff with target information, based on calling history regarding telephone calls from at least one customer to a call center. The sales-force server provides the staff terminal with a correction message, upon detection of error information included in utterance of the sales staff which corresponds to voice data created by the staff terminal. |
| US07925529B2 |
Method and meeting scheduler for automated meeting scheduling using delegates, representatives, quorums and teams
A method, meeting scheduler and computer program product are provided for automated meeting scheduling using delegates, representatives, quorums, and teams. Meeting settings and invitees data are stored for a meeting. The meeting settings and invitees data includes invitee attendance type, delegates, representatives, quorums, and teams data. A solution time block for automated meeting scheduling including at least a subset of a plurality of selected invitees is identified utilizing the invitee attendance type, delegates, representatives, quorums, and teams data. A selection score is calculated for each potential time block for automated meeting scheduling utilizing the stored meeting settings and invitees data including the invitee attendance type, delegates, representatives, quorums, and teams data. The solution time block for automated meeting scheduling including a subset of a plurality of selected invitees is identified utilizing the calculated selection score. |
| US07925526B2 |
Production management system and associated warning process
A production unit for which a schedule of tasks is to be accomplished is prepared and stored in a central management device. The unit includes individual electronic devices, control stations, and a network linking the individual electronic devices and the control stations to the central management device. Each individual electronic device includes a device to input the tasks accomplished and problems encountered and further includes a transmission device for information input. The central management device compares data received with the schedule of tasks, generates a warning signal when the comparison detects a gap or discrepancy between the data received and the schedule of tasks, and transmits the warning signal to the individual electronic devices and control stations. The individual electronic devices and the control stations include a device to display the warning signal. |
| US07925524B2 |
Method and system of delivering items using overlapping delivery windows
A method and system for obtaining desired times from intended recipients of items is provided. The method provides each recipient with a plurality of time windows that overlap with one another in time from which the recipient may choose a time for delivery of an item and receives choices made by recipients from the plurality of overlapping windows. One aspect of the invention includes applying predetermined parameters to the time windows to determine which time windows to offer to the recipients as available times from which the recipient may choose a time for delivery. Such parameters may include, among others, which time windows have associated with them the least cost of service in making the delivery, whether the cost of delivering within a time window is less than a monetary threshold, and whether a maximum number of orders to be delivered within one time window has been reached. |
| US07925521B2 |
Multiple resource planning system
A system for managing remote doctor medical request workflow may include a workflow module that optimizes assignments of medical requests to remote doctors based on parameterized doctor and scheduling information and may further include a forecasting module that predicts the hospital credentials, state licenses or doctors needed to fulfill a projected volume of future medical requests. In one embodiment, radiologists are parameterized and then matched with requests for radiological readings based on information extracted from DICOM image headers and merged with associated information contained in a medical work order. In this embodiment, the radiologists are parameterized based on their locations, schedules, hospital credentials, state licensing, compensation metrics, and performance metrics and incoming requests for review of CT scans and the like are filtered based on the parameterized radiologist information to identify one or more radiologists who are to fulfill the medical request. |
| US07925519B2 |
Method and system for delivery of healthcare services
The current invention is directed to methods for reducing the cost of healthcare by improving the standard of care and by encouraging healthy behavior. Additionally, the methods of the current invention are designed to help improve clinical and economic outcomes through the principles of empowerment and accountability. The methods of the current invention provide financial incentives to both the patient and the medical practitioner in an interactive, web-based incentive system that creates appropriate and powerful checks and balances that motivate medical practitioners and patients to participate and to be adherent to beneficial performance standards. The methods of the current invention achieves the objectives of improved healthiness and better and more affordable healthcare by aligning the interests of medical providers, patients/consumers, and healthcare purchasers/payers in a win-win-win proposition. In the invention, purchasers/payers achieve lower healthcare consumption and costs by compensating medical providers and patients to declare compliance to beneficial performance standards on an intermediary's Internet application, and then having both parties confirm each other's compliance. The methods of the current invention incorporates evidence-based medicine treatment guidelines and content and other performance standards, and dispenses information therapy and other similar types of content through an Internet application or by other means to improve the standard of healthcare treatment and promote healthy behavior, which leads to better clinical outcomes and a reduction in the overall cost of healthcare. |
| US07925508B1 |
Detection of extreme hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia based on automatic analysis of speech patterns
In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a communication device that analyzes received utterances and detects when the speaker has a target physical condition. |
| US07925507B2 |
Method and apparatus for recognizing large list of proper names in spoken dialog systems
Embodiments of a name recognition process for use in dialog systems are described. In one embodiment, the name recognition process assigns weighting values to names used in a dialog based on the usage of these names. This process takes advantage of the general tendency of people to speak names, either full or partial, only after they have heard or read these names. Name input is taken in several different forms, including a static background database that contains all possible names, a background database that contains commonly used names (such as common trademarks or references), a database that contains names from a user model, and a dynamic database that constantly takes the names just mentioned. The names are then appended with proper weighting values. A high weight is given to names that have been mentioned recently, a lower weight is given to common names, and a lowest weight is given to names for the ones that have never been used or mentioned. |
| US07925505B2 |
Adaptation of language models and context free grammar in speech recognition
Architecture is disclosed herewith for minimizing an empirical error rate by discriminative adaptation of a statistical language model in a dictation and/or dialog application. The architecture allows assignment of an improved weighting value to each term or phrase to reduce empirical error. Empirical errors are minimized whether a user provides correction results or not based on criteria for discriminatively adapting the user language model (LM)/context-free grammar (CFG) to the target. Moreover, algorithms are provided for the training and adaptation processes of LM/CFG parameters for criteria optimization. |
| US07925502B2 |
Pitch model for noise estimation
Pitch is tracked for individual samples, which are taken much more frequently than an analysis frame. Speech is identified based on the tracked pitch and the speech components of the signal are removed with a time-varying filter, leaving only an estimate of a time-varying speech signal. This estimate is then used to generate a time-varying noise model which, in turn, can be used to enhance speech related systems. |
| US07925499B2 |
Method and apparatus for processing a speech signal
A method and apparatus for generating a control signal for processing a speech signal comprising the steps of: adjusting the signal relative to a threshold level; and responsive to detection of a falling edge of the signal, holding the signal level for a holding period. The technique further comprises ‘slowing’ each rising edge of the signal. The technique further comprises attenuating each falling edge of the signal. The steps are carried out on a signal representing the envelope of the speech signal. |
| US07925498B1 |
Identifying a synonym with N-gram agreement for a query phrase
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that identifies a synonym with N-gram agreement for a query phrase. During operation, the system receives a candidate synonym for the query phrase. Then, for each term in the query phrase, the system determines whether the term is a lexical synonym of a corresponding term in the candidate synonym or the term shares meaning with the corresponding term in the candidate synonym. If this is true for all terms in the query phrase, the system identifies the candidate synonym as an N-gram agreement synonym for the query phrase. The system then uses this identified N-gram agreement synonym to improve synonym mappings for query terms and/or query phrases. |
| US07925496B1 |
Method for summarizing natural language text
A method includes the steps of comparing a first body of text with a user-created summary of the first body of text, creating rules based on the comparison of the first body of text with the user-created summary of the first body of text, selecting one or more summary rules for generating a computer-created summary of a second body of text, and applying the selected summary rules to the second body of text to generate a computer-created summary of the second body of text. The first body of text may be a user-corrected summary of a computer-created summary of the first body of text. The rules may be selected based on previous use, frequency of use, context of the body of text, or most-specific applicability. The rules may be iteratively applied to generate a summary. A method is also provided for generating a heading for a summary of text. |
| US07925495B2 |
System and method for distributing multilingual documents
A method and apparatus is disclosed for generating and distributing multilingual documents. The multilingual documents are comprised of primary information consisting of human-readable text and secondary information consisting of machine-readable data such that a translation of the text is accomplished by converting the human-readable text into a second language through the use of the decoded machine-readable data. The machine-readable data is comprised of a code that describes a set of editing operations that can be applied to the human-readable text to convert it into at least a second language. In a preferred embodiment, the machine-readable data is embedded in the image using an unobtrusive code on the document such as Xerox DATAGLYPH codes. |
| US07925494B2 |
E-services translation utilizing machine translation and translation memory
A system and method for translating data from a source language to a target language is provided wherein machine generated target translation of a source sentence is compared to a database of human generated target sentences. If a matching human generated target sentence is found, the human generated target sentence may be used instead of the machine generated sentence, since the human generated target sentence is more likely to be a well-formed sentence than the machine generated sentence. The system and method does not rely on a translation memory containing pairs of sentences in both source and target languages, and minimizes the reliance on a human translator to correct a translation generated by machine translation. |
| US07925493B2 |
Machine translation apparatus and machine translation computer program
A method of machine translation, using a bilingual corpus containing translation pairs each consisting of a sentence of a first language and a sentence of a second language, for translating an input sentence of the first language to the second language, including the steps of: receiving the input sentence of the first language and extracting, from the bilingual corpus, a sentence of the second language forming a pair with a sentence of the first language with highest similarity to the input sentence; applying an arbitrary modification among a plurality of predetermined modifications to the extracted sentence of the second language, and computing likelihood of sentences resulting from the modification; selecting a prescribed number of sentences having high likelihood from among the sentences resulting from the modification; repeating, on each of the sentences selected in the step of selecting, the steps of extracting, computing and selecting, until the likelihood no longer improves; and outputting, as a translation of the input sentence, a sentence having the highest likelihood among the sentences of the second language left at the end of the step of repeating. |
| US07925490B2 |
Method of transactional simulation of a generic communication node model, and the corresponding computer program product and storage means
A method of transactional simulation of a generic communication node model is proposed. The method includes steps, performed at each simulation step corresponding to transaction start events and transaction end events, including: calculating a remaining quantity of data to be transmitted for each transaction not completed in a list of current transactions; if the simulation step corresponds to the start of a new transaction, calculating a quantity of data to be transmitted for the new transaction and adding the new transaction to the list of current transaction; if the simulation step corresponds to the end of the transaction, removing the transaction from the list of current transactions; allocating throughputs to the current transactions, according to a predetermined node sharing policy; calculating a duration up to the closest end time of one of the current transactions; and assigning a wait for the duration before generation of the next transaction end event. |
| US07925489B2 |
Defining and recording threshold-qualified count events of a simulation by testcases
A design is simulated utilizing a hardware description language (HDL) simulation model by stimulating the HDL simulation model with a testcase. The HDL simulation model includes instrumentation not forming a portion of the design that includes a count event counter for a count event in the design, and the simulation includes counting occurrences of the count event in the count event counter to obtain a count event value. A threshold is also established for an aggregate count event value for the count event counter. After completion of the testcase, a determination is made whether addition of the count event value to the aggregate count event value for the count event counter would cause the aggregate count event value to exceed the threshold. If not, the count event value is recorded in a testcase data storage area, and the count event value is accumulated in the aggregate count event value. If so, the count event value is discarded without recording the count event value in the testcase data storage area. |
| US07925484B2 |
Method for predicting the spatial-arrangement topology of an amino acid sequence using free energy combined with secondary structural information
This invention is an algorithm for estimating the topology of a protein by determination of the free energy from a global entropy evaluation model combined with local correction methods. |
| US07925481B2 |
Geologic models of subsurface sedimentary volumes
A method is disclosed for using a three-dimensional seismic image of a subsurface earth volume to construct a geologic model specifying the spatially-varying grain size distribution, porosity, and permeability throughout the volume. The method applies to earth volumes composed of water-lain clastic sedimentary deposits and involves, in one embodiment, (a) identifying the outline forms of geologic bodies in geologic data; (b) using the outline forms of the geologic bodies to determine the spatially-varying grain size distribution within the bodies, guided by assumptions about the nature and behavior of the paleoflow that deposited the bodies; (c) determining rock properties such as, porosity and permeability within the geologic bodies based on grain-size distribution, mineralogy and burial history information. |
| US07925478B2 |
Method for automatically designing buffer packing size and computer accessible storage media to store program thereof
A method for automatically designing a buffer packing size and a computer accessible storage media to store program thereof are provided. First, a buffer thickness of a buffer material is calculated, and a buffer area for a surface of the object receiving an impact is calculated according to a weight of an object and a static stress of the buffer material. Next, a suitable buffer packing size is automatically calculated according to the buffer thickness and the buffer area. |
| US07925475B2 |
Analyzing structural design relative to vibrational and/or acoustic loading
A computer-performed method of designing a structure. User-selected design parameters are input to a parametric model of the structure. Boundary conditions and load conditions are applied to the model to determine a response of the structure to the conditions. Based on the load conditions, an analysis method is selected. The modeled response is analyzed using the selected analysis method to obtain power spectral density (PSD) values for the model. The PSD values are averaged over a user-selected frequency range to evaluate the design parameters for acoustic transmission loss. This method provides a high degree of flexibility in formulating structural design analyses. |
| US07925470B2 |
Novelty detection
A method and apparatus for detecting an abnormality in e.g. in operating characteristics or function of a machine, apparatus or system, the method including providing a data sample set comprising n values of a measured physical parameter associated with the apparatus or system generated by repeating a measurement of the physical parameter n times. An extremal measured parameter value is selected from amongst the data sample set, determining a probability of observing the selected parameter value (e.g. of observing a value not exceeding the selected parameter value) by applying the selected parameter value to an extreme value probability distribution function having a location parameter and a scale parameter. The value of the location parameter and the value of the scale parameter are each constructed using an integer value m (e.g. notionally representing the size of a sub-sample data set comprising m of said measured parameter values) in which m is less than n (i.e. m |
| US07925468B2 |
Method for characterizing hiding of coating compositions and apparatus used therefor
The present invention is directed to an apparatus and a method that characterizes the hiding of coating compositions, such as automotive OEM and refinishes paints. The method is directed to sequentially storing in a computing device hiding data obtained by measuring the color difference (ΔRGB) in reflections of light and dark portions of target areas of a monotonic coating resulting from a coating composition applied over hiding test panel and by measuring coating thicknesses of the monotonic coating that correspond to the target areas, classifying the type of the hiding data, selecting fitting equations applicable to the classified hiding data, fitting the selected equation to match the classified hiding data and locating a hiding thickness on the monotonic coating that corresponds to the threshold value of the color difference at that location to determine the hiding thickness of the coating composition. |
| US07925461B2 |
Quality control system, analyzer, and quality control method
A quality control method using a plurality of analyzers and a control device connected to the analyzers via a network, the method comprising: (a) measuring quality control samples by the analyzers; (b) collecting a plurality of quality control data obtained by measuring the quality control samples; (c) implementing a quality control by the control device based on the collected quality control data; (d) obtaining uncertainty of measurement of analyzer based on uncertainty of analyzer calibration and the quality control data; (e) outputting a result of the quality control; and (f) outputting the uncertainty of measurement is disclosed. A quality control system and an analyzer are also disclosed. |
| US07925460B2 |
System and method for improving print shop operability
A computer implemented system for segmenting data collected from a document production environment is provided. The system includes determining, with a computer implemented data processing platform, that a set of document production related data should be represented as a non-normal distribution. A first test is performed and it is determined that the non-normal distribution should not be analyzed pursuant to a first analytic category. A second test is performed and when it is determined that the non-normal distribution should be analyzed pursuant to a second analytic category, an output, indicating that the non-normal distribution should be analyzed pursuant to the second analytic category is provided. |
| US07925459B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining an operating voltage for preventing photovoltaic cell reverse breakdown during power conversion
A method and apparatus for determining an operating voltage lower bound for preventing photovoltaic (PV) cell reverse breakdown during power conversion. The method comprises determining a PV cell operating temperature; computing, at a controller, an operating voltage corresponding to a maximum power point (MPP) based on the PV cell operating temperature; and determining, at the controller, an operating voltage lower bound based on the operating voltage. |
| US07925458B2 |
Arc fault detector with circuit interrupter
A method and apparatus are provided for detecting the occurrence of arcing of a conductor by monitoring the current on an AC power line. |
| US07925457B2 |
Flow meter and airflow measurement using an airfoil
One embodiment provides a flow meter including an airfoil movably secured in the airflow path of a fan in an electronic system. The airfoil is configured to generate a lift component in response to the airflow. A sensor engages the airfoil and generates a signal in relation to the movement of the airfoil. Airflow parameters such as volumetric airflow rate and turbulence may be identified by an analysis of the movement of the airfoil. |
| US07925456B2 |
Method and apparatus for directing the use of a Coriolis flow meter
A method and apparatus is disclosed that guides a user through a sequence of steps that will allow the user to complete a predefined task using the flow meter. The steps include: selecting a predefined task, displaying a sequence of steps that directs the user through a process for using the Coriolis flow meter to complete the predefined task, and operating the Coriolis flow meter in response to the sequence of steps to complete the predefined task. |
| US07925455B2 |
Method and system for the determination of damage location
A method for determining the health of a structural element. The method includes providing a plurality of transducer elements arranged and disposed to permit measurement of vibration generated by at least one of the transducer elements at one or more of the other transducers elements. Vibration is induced with at least one transducer element. Vibration is measured at least one other transducer element, where the measured vibration corresponding to a vibratory path. At least one damage index value is calculated for each vibratory path in response to the measured vibration. At least one damage image is generated in response to the damage index value. The damage image assigns damage index values to each vibratory path. A damage location is determined from the damage image. |
| US07925450B2 |
Photometrically modulated delivery of reagents
A process system adapted for processing of or with a material therein. The process system includes: a sampling region for the material; an infrared photometric monitor constructed and arranged to transmit infrared radiation through the sampling region and to responsively generate an output signal correlative of the material in the sampling region, based on its interaction with the infrared radiation; and process control means arranged to receive the output of the infrared photometric monitor and to responsively control one or more process conditions in and/or affecting the process system. |
| US07925449B2 |
Products and processes for analyzing octane content
Products and processes are provided herewith for analyzing octane content in a fuel sample that include the step or steps of receiving an octane measurement of a fuel sample from a octane analyzer, rounding the octane measurement to a nearest recognized octane rating, comparing the rounded octane measurement with a listed octane rating for the fuel sample, and communicating results of the comparison to a user of the octane analyzer. The octane analyzer may be incorporated into a fuel pump or a vehicle. The results of the comparison may also be used to adjust the vehicle operating parameters to account for the actual octane rating of the fuel dispensed into the vehicle. |
| US07925444B2 |
Systems and methods for resolving ambiguity between names and entities
The present invention provides systems and methods that utilize an information architecture for disambiguating scientific names and other classification labels and the entities to which those names are applied, as well as a means of accessing data on those entities in a networked environment using persistent, unique identifiers. |
| US07925441B2 |
Vehicle periphery monitoring apparatus
A vehicle periphery monitoring apparatus is comprised of a camera installed in the front or rear of a vehicle, for picking up images of side view of the vehicle; a feature point detecting section that detects feature points in the side images and calculates the motion vectors of the detected feature points; a moving object detecting section that detects a set of a plurality of feature points approaching the vehicle in the side images as an approaching object based on the calculated motion vectors of the feature points; a feature point tracking section that tracks the feature points of the detected approaching object; and a passage time calculating section that calculates the time at which the approaching object passes the front or rear of the vehicle from the feature points of the approaching object tracked by the feature point tracking section. |
| US07925440B2 |
Multilane vehicle information capture system
A system and method for accurate express tolling of highway vehicles. A multilane tolling system comprises a tolling (MVIC) unit that collects information from tolling subsystems arranged to take various vehicle measurements. Preferably, an intelligent vehicle identification subsystem sends vehicle information to the MVIC unit many times per second. Preferably, a vision tracking system (VTS) communicates with the MVIC unit and sends the latter information about the vehicle position using vision tracking sensors. Preferably, an RF subsystem conducts multiple reads of a transponder on a passing vehicle and forwards the read information to the MVIC unit. Preferably, a vehicle image capture unit (VICU) captures images of the passing vehicle when a camera in the VICU receives a trigger from the MVIC unit. Preferably, a driver alert module is used alert a driver passing through a tolling point as to account balance associated with a silent toll tag or pay by plate system. |
| US07925432B2 |
System and method for reducing the amount of repetitive data sent by a server to a client for vehicle navigation
A system and method for reducing the amount of repetitive data sent by a server to a client for vehicle navigation. The system includes a computer-based vehicle unit located in a vehicle, a gateway configured to wirelessly send and receive trip information to and from the vehicle unit, and a computer-based server in communication with the gateway over a network. The vehicle unit wirelessly receives signals from a computer-based server that includes the desired navigation information in packet form. The vehicle unit includes a user interface component that presents the received navigation information and records user requests. The server processes the requests, generates a trip plan according to the navigation information and sends the generated trip plan back to the vehicle unit via a gateway when a request has been completed. |
| US07925426B2 |
Power management systems and devices
Described herein are devices, systems, and methods for managing the power consumption of an automotive vehicle, and thereby for optimizing the power consumption of the vehicle. The devices and systems for managing the power consumption of the vehicle typically include power management logic that can calculate an applied power for the vehicle engine based on information provided from the external environment of the vehicle, the operational status of the vehicle, one or more command inputs from a driver, and one or more operational parameters of the vehicle. |
| US07925423B2 |
System and method for traffic condition detection
A system and method for detecting traffic conditions. Communications are performed wirelessly with a traffic detector. A determination is made whether a vehicle is approaching a traffic condition within safe parameters. A driver is alerted of the traffic condition in response to determining the vehicle is not approaching the traffic condition within the safe parameters. |
| US07925420B2 |
Method and device for the determination and input of fuel into an internal combustion engine on the basis of an air-fuel ratio target and ionic current sensor
Methods and devices for determining and putting in fuel into an internal combustion engine on the basis of an air-fuel ratio in proximity to the stechiometric value, based on the use of the ion current released by a device, positioned on each cylinder of said engine. This ion current is acquired by a Control Unit equipped by means, preferably electronic ones, which implement the invention, repeated continually for each engine cycle and for each cylinder, characterized in that the method develops over various phases. |
| US07925419B2 |
Fuel injection control system
A fuel injection control system in which an appropriate command is obtained both before and after learning a correction amount. Command storage means 3 stores a command for pre-learning and a command for post-learning; the command for pre-learning is a command for a pre-learning time, which is a time before correction amount learning means 5 learns a correction amount, and a command for post-learning for a post-learning time, which is a time after the correction amount learning means 5 learns a correction amount; command injection amount determination means 4 refers to the command for pre-learning at the pre-learning time, and refers to the command for post-learning at the post-learning time. |
| US07925418B2 |
Engine control responsive to varying amounts of alcohol in fuel
Various systems and methods are described for operating an engine in a vehicle in response to fuel having varying amounts of alcohol. One example method comprises delivering fuel to the engine, limiting engine speed during vehicle operation to a maximum permitted engine speed, the maximum permitted engine speed responsive to the amount of alcohol in the fuel. |
| US07925415B2 |
Vehicle drive assist system
In automatic steering control, when both a traveling lane and a preceding vehicle are detected, a target position on a first vehicle traveling path based on traveling lane information and a target position on a second vehicle traveling path based on preceding vehicle information are set as a first target position and a second target position, respectively. When the second target position is set farther than the first target position, the correction amount of the distance between the first target position and the second vehicle traveling path is set in accordance with the distance difference in the front-rear direction between the first and second target positions, and a third target position is set by correcting the first target position by the correction amount so as to become closer to the second vehicle traveling path. The steering control amount is calculated on the basis of the third target position. |
| US07925413B2 |
Vehicle control system
A vehicle control system controls the speed of a vehicle according to actual road conditions and state of the vehicle. The control system acquires a present value of lateral acceleration occurring in a direction lateral to a controlled vehicle when the controlled vehicle avoids a collision with an obstacle or passes the obstacle. A target relative speed between the obstacle and the controlled vehicle is calculated from the present value of lateral acceleration and a turning radius of the controlled vehicle required for the controlled vehicle to avoid a collision with the obstacle or to pass the obstacle. Then, deceleration control is executed based on target relative deceleration rate at which the controlled vehicle is to be decelerated to reach the target relative speed. |
| US07925411B2 |
Method for controlling a brake system of a motor vehicle with all-wheel drive
A method of controlling a brake system of an all-wheel driven motor vehicle, which includes an electro-regenerative brake and a number of friction brakes such that a total brake torque comprises brake torque components of the friction brakes and of the electro-regenerative brake; the brake torque of the electro-regenerative brake is subdivided between the front axle and rear axle in predetermined ratios. The brake torque generated by the electro-regenerative brake is limited to such an extent that the brake slip of one axle of the motor vehicle does not exceed a selectable maximum value. |
| US07925408B2 |
Electric parking brake system and method for controlling the electric parking brake system
During the standstill state maintenance control executed by an electric parking brake system, the moving force-based target tension Frefb is determined based on the inclination angle of a vehicle and the shift position each time the predetermined program is executed, and the tentative target tension Fref(n) in the current routine is set to a smaller value from among the moving force-based target tension Frefb and the maximum value Fmax. The control target tension Fref(n)* is set to a larger value from among the control target tension (the final target tension) Fref(n−1)* in the immediately preceding routine and the tentative target value Fref(n). Even if the tentative target tension Fref(n) is smaller than the control target tension Fref(n−1)*, the control target value Fref(n)* is not set to a value smaller than the control target tension Fref(n−1)*. |
| US07925403B2 |
Control method for occupant restraint apparatus and occupant restraint apparatus
A method and apparatus for controlling an occupant restraint apparatus are provided which allow the force applied to a nearby occupant to be optimized in response to collision conditions. In one form, a method for controlling an occupant restraint apparatus includes detecting an obstacle in a travelling direction of a vehicle that may potentially collide with the vehicle; predicting a type of collision between the obstacle detected and the vehicle; setting conditions for expanding an airbag of the vehicle based on the collision type predicted; and controlling the expansion of the airbag and/or gas discharge from the airbag according to the conditions set at the setting step. Detecting the obstacle preferably includes detecting the position and relative speed of the obstacle with respect to the vehicle based on images of views in the travelling direction of the vehicle. |
| US07925401B2 |
Universal pneumatic suspension control unit and vehicle anti theft device
A versatile automobile pneumatic suspension control unit and vehicle anti theft device. The microprocessor based unit allows precise calibration and operation of all manufacturer's air suspension bags and incorporates a system for deflation of all vehicle air bags so as to place the vehicle body directly onto the vehicle chassis and tires so as to disable operation of the vehicle. The unit has programmable valve timing, preset suspension configuration buttons and can be operated remotely via a key fob transmitter. |
| US07925394B2 |
Method of forming a 3D safe emergency descent trajectory for aircraft and implementation device
The method in accordance with the invention is a method of providing a 3D emergency descent trajectory for aircraft comprising the steps of searching for at least one possible better trajectory allowing a secure continuation in relation to the relief and/or the surrounding conditions towards a homing point as soon as a situation requiring an unscheduled modification of the current trajectory occurs, wherein this trajectory is updated as a function of the alterations in the surrounding conditions, as a function of the information provided by the onboard sensors and/or outside information received. |
| US07925392B2 |
Aircraft vehicular propulsion system monitoring device and method
Methods and systems for monitoring rotating shaft shafts and couplings in an aircraft propulsion system is described. The measurement system/method provides for accurate and precise monitoring of a rotating shaft flexible coupling in a fixed wing aircraft vehicle propulsion system. The measuring system/method provides for a high reliability short take off vertical landing fixed wing aircraft in which the vertical propulsion dynamically rotating drive shaft system and couplings are monitored in real time. The vehicular shaft coupling misalignment measuring system utilizes multiple positional sensors to provide highly reliable and precise determination of the dynamic characteristics of the rotating sensor target components of the propulsion system drive shaft. The relative position of the sensors is rigidly fixed externally from the rotating targets with a structural frame. The collar misalignment measuring system of the invention provide a misalignment measurement of the propulsion system drive shaft flexible coupling which relates to a critical performance of rotating shaft coupling in the operation of an aircraft vehicle. The method/system provides for monitoring a rotating drive shaft system and dynamically measuring a rotating drive shaft coupling in a fixed wing aircraft propulsion system. |
| US07925388B2 |
Remotely controllable wireless energy control unit
A power management system and associated method includes provision of local wireless energy control units at remote sites for controlling power delivery to customer loads, and a central station with a wireless transmitter for broadcasting commands to the wireless energy control units. The wireless energy control units each comprise a bank of switches for controlling power delivery to electrical loads at each local site. The controllable switches preferably have a deformable bimetal member controlled by a heated coil for engaging and disengaging electrical contacts. Each wireless energy control unit is capable of being pre-configured so as to specify the order or priority in which electrical loads are disengaged, in response to commands to reduce power consumption received from the central station. The central station issues power reduction commands according to different priority levels or alert stages, causing the local wireless energy units to disengage local loads accordingly. |
| US07925387B2 |
Method and systems for utilizing excess energy generated by a renewable power generation system to treat organic waste material
A method for using excess energy generated by a renewable power generation system including at least one renewable power generator to treat organic waste material to generate crude oil. The method includes providing a renewable power generation management system operatively coupled to the renewable power generation system. The renewable power generation management system receives operational data from a pump load operatively coupled to the renewable power generator, and/or operational data from an electrical grid operatively coupled to the renewable power generator. Based at least in part on anticipated energy requirements, excess energy is supplied to the pump load to facilitate treating the organic waste material to generate crude oil. |
| US07925382B2 |
Robot controller and robot control method
An input unit enters angular displacements by which drive shafts of a robot arm are to be turned as teaching data into a control unit. The control unit converts the input angular displacements into position-attitude data, namely, converted commands, indicating a position of the free end of the robot arm and an attitude of the robot in a rectangular coordinate system through forward conversion. The control unit corrects the position-attitude data on the basis of inherent errors in the robot to provide corrected position-attitude data. The control unit converts the corrected position-attitude data into corrected angular displacements through inverse conversion and gives the corrected angular displacements to an actuator included in the robot. The inherent errors in the robot include mechanismic errors resulting from machining errors and assembling errors, installation errors and errors in the origins of axes. |
| US07925379B2 |
Computer program products for packaging systems with breech loading chutes
Systems for enclosing at least one target product in a covering material, include an elongate product chute having an outer surface and opposing receiving and discharge end portions with an interior cavity extending therethrough and an elongate breech loading chute alignably positioned generally above the product chute, the elongate loading chute configured to direct at least one target product into the product chute. |
| US07925375B2 |
Storage machine for objects
A machine for storing objects includes a compartment system with a plurality of compartments and having at least one closure mechanism which can be moved relative to a central, predefined access orifice in the machine housing to permit or prevent access to a specific, individual compartment or to a specific group of adjacent compartments. A driving force of the drive system for the closure mechanism is dimensioned or can be set and/or a drive train or a motion transmitting path between the drive system and closure mechanism has a force or torque limiting device such that maximum force or torque transmitting values acting on the closure mechanism are fixed or can be set so that automatic movements of the closure mechanism can not cause serious injuries to a user, and in addition the closure mechanism can be manually held open or pushed open in spite of the active drive system. The closure mechanism or drive system co-operates with at least one stop mechanism which can be activated and/or deactivated in a controlled manner or positioned in a controlled manner, which is designed mechanically to restrict a maximum permissible opening width of the closure mechanism). This results in an increased degree of personal safety and at the same time protects access to the storage machine. |
| US07925373B2 |
Machine tool and control method thereof
An acceleration/deceleration control method of a CNC machine tool includes receiving an acceleration/deceleration timing signal and a velocity signal. The acceleration/deceleration timing signal is calculated to acquire a plurality of different first weight values and different second weight values by a first formula and a second formula. A velocity variation of the velocity signal is determined to be zero, positive or negative. The velocity signal is acquired, if the velocity variation is zero. A plurality of acceleration signals are acquired by the velocity signal multiplying each of the first weight values, if the velocity variable is positive. A plurality of deceleration signals are acquired by the velocity signal multiplying each of the second weight values, if the velocity variation is negative. The velocity signal, the acceleration signal and the deceleration signal are converted into a first driving signal, a second driving signal and a third driving signal. |
| US07925370B2 |
Substrate processing system, substrate processing method, sealed container storing apparatus, program for implementing the substrate processing method, and storage medium storing the program
A substrate processing system which is capable of preventing dust from becoming attached to substrates without increasing the degree of cleanliness of a clean room to a predetermined level, and also capable of increasing the substrate processing throughput without increasing the burden on workers. a plasma processing apparatus 2 that subjects semiconductor wafers W to plasma processing in a cleaned atmosphere. A SMIF 4 has a enclosure 23 that is connected to the plasma processing apparatus 2 and has a cleaned atmosphere therein, a pod stage 26 on which a pod 3 housing semiconductor wafers W is mounted, a pod mounting portion 24 that carries out removal of semiconductor wafers W from the pod 3 and housing of semiconductor wafers W into the pod 3, and a wafer cassette transfer arm 27 that transfers semiconductor wafers W between the pod stage 26 and the plasma processing apparatus 2 via the enclosure 23. A preliminary loader 5 having a stage-shaped unprocessed pod port 28 that stores a pod 3 housing semiconductor wafers W that have not been subjected to the plasma processing, a shelf-like processed pod port 29 that stores a sealed container housing semiconductor wafers W that have been subjected to the plasma processing, and a pod moving mechanism 30 that moves the pods 3 between the stage-shaped unprocessed pod port 28 and the pod stage 26, and between the pod stage 26 and the shelf-like processed pod port 29. |
| US07925369B2 |
Method and apparatus for optimizing models for extracting dose and focus from critical dimension
A method includes defining a reference model of a system having a plurality of terms for modeling data associated with the system. A reference fit error metric is generated for the reference model. A set of evaluation models each having one term different than the reference model is generated. An evaluation fit error metric for each of the evaluation models is generated. The reference model is replaced with a selected evaluation model responsive to the selected evaluation model having an evaluation fit error metric less than the reference fit error metric. The model evaluation is repeated until no evaluation model has an evaluation fit error metric less than the reference fit error metric. The reference model is trained using the data associated with the system, and the trained reference model is employed to determine at least one characteristic of the system. |
| US07925367B2 |
Defect review and classification system
The invention proposes a system that interrupts a processing associated with an ADC having low priority when an ADC processing cannot catch up with ADR by an ADC alone that is not under execution but uses an ADC for an ADR having high priority. To preferentially execute ADR/ADC having high priority, the invention employs an algorithm for serially selecting ADR/ADC in the order of higher processing capacity (in the order of greater numerical values in the expression by a DPH unit) from among ADR/ADCs that have the lowest priority, no matter whether the ADR/DC is now under execution or not. |
| US07925363B2 |
Error-correction assistance system
Upon detection of an error such as a malfunction occurring at a drive mechanism, a sensor transmits an error signal to a control section. The control section selects character information about details of the error corresponding to the error signal and an image representing the drive mechanism where the error occurs and a position of the sensor in the drive mechanism, and reads out the character information and the image from a storage part. Then, the control section allows a liquid crystal display device to display error information in which a first image of character information is combined with a second image of an error occurrence site in the drive mechanism. Then, error correction is sequentially performed in accordance with details of an error displayed as an uppermost layer on a screen. |
| US07925359B2 |
Air compressor and work management data collection system
An air compressor 1 is provided with a clocking mechanism and an RFID reader/writer 2, detects a time-in and a time-out etc. of a worker, and writes time data into an RFID tag 4 of a time card 3 held by a worker using the RFID reader/writer 2. The air compressor 1 is made to function as a time recorder in order to collect data necessary for management from the time card 3 of the worker. Also, a type of tool etc. used during works is written to the RFID tag 4 of the time card 3 using the RFID reader/writer. In this way, the air compressor 1 is made to function as a data collection terminal to collect data necessary for work management from the time card 3 of the worker. |
| US07925357B2 |
Holster for charging pectorally implanted medical devices
A holster that may be donned in a first configuration for charging a pectorally implanted medical device on the patient's right side, a second configuration for charging a pectorally implanted medical device on the patient's left side, or a third configuration for use as a waist belt for charging a pectorally implanted medical device on either side of the patient. |
| US07925356B2 |
Method and apparatus for operating a diversity antenna system for communicating with implantable medical device
A far-field radio frequency (RF) telemetry system for communicating with an implantable medical device includes a diversity antenna system. Multi-frame messages each including multiple outgoing data frames are transmitted to the implantable medical device. In response, the implantable medical device transmits response data frames each following one or more of the outgoing data frames, according to a predetermined communication protocol. An antenna control circuit selects an antenna of the diversity antenna system for transmitting the outgoing data frames and/or receiving the response data frames based the quality of signal reception associated with the response data frames. |
| US07925351B2 |
Gastrointestinal device for treating obesity and diabetes
Apparatus is provided, including an ingestible capsule, one or more electrodes coupled to the capsule, and a control unit configured to maintain the capsule in a vicinity of a designated site of a subject by driving at least a subset of the electrodes to apply a current that induces reverse intestinal peristalsis in the subject. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US07925348B1 |
Extra-cardiac impedance based hemodynamic assessment method and system
A medical device is provided that comprises a lead assembly configured to be at least partially located proximate to the heart. The lead assembly includes an extra-cardiac (EC) electrode to be positioned proximate to at least one of a superior vena cava (SVC) and a left ventricle (LV) of a heart. The lead assembly includes a subcutaneous remote-cardiac (RC) electrode configured to be located remote from the heart such that at least a portion of the greater vessels are interposed between the RC electrode and the EC electrode to establish an extra-cardiac impedance (ECI) vector. The processor module measures extra-cardiac impedance along the ECI vector to obtain ECI measurements. The processor module assesses a hemodynamic performance based on the ECI measurements. |
| US07925343B1 |
Subcutaneous implantable cardiac device system with low defibrillation thresholds and improved sensing
A subcutaneous implantable cardiac device system applies defibrillation currents in pathways aligned with the heart's own electrical system to decrease defibrillation thresholds. In one implementation, one or more subcutaneous sensors detect ventricular fibrillation. Positioning of subcutaneous sensors and filtering result in improved sensing with reduced noise. A subcutaneous patch component of the system that is in communication with a subcutaneous pacemaker or cardioverter-defibrillator may perform the sensing and apply the defibrillation. The subcutaneous patch may include one or more electrodes that perform both sensing and defibrillation. Variations of the subcutaneous patch may include battery and capacitor for generating onboard defibrillation current and may also include a microprocessor for advanced programmable operation. |
| US07925341B2 |
Irrigation probe for ablation during open heart surgery
An irrigation ablation probe comprises a generally rigid probe body and a handle mounted to the proximal end of the probe body. The generally rigid probe body comprises an ablation electrode at its distal end having at least one irrigation opening through which fluid can pass. An infusion tube extends through the probe body for introducing fluid into the ablation electrode. The irrigation ablation probe is useful for treating atrial fibrillation during open heart surgery. |
| US07925339B2 |
Intubation monitoring apparatus and method
The invention comprises an apparatus and a method for externally assessing and monitoring placement of an endo-tracheal tube for ventilation of patients based on thoracic impedance measurement. |
| US07925337B2 |
Systems and methods for graphic display of ST-segment deviation
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring a patient and graphically representing ST-segment deviations. A receiver acquires, from a plurality of leads, electrocardiogram (ECG) signals that each includes an ST-segment. A processor processes the ECG signals to determine baseline and current ST-segment deviations relative to an isoelectric value. A display module displays a graph that includes a first axis representing ST-segment deviation values and a second axis representing the plurality of leads. At each location along the second axis representing a respective lead, the graph displays a first set of graphic indicia representing the baseline ST-segment deviations and a second set of graphic indicia representing the current ST-segment deviations. In certain embodiments, the graphic indicia are represented by bar graphs. In other embodiments, the graphic indicia are represented by symbols that may be connected by line segments. |
| US07925335B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining cardiac performance in a patient with a conductance catheter
An apparatus for determining cardiac performance in the patient involving a conductance catheter (12) for measuring conductance and blood volume in a heart chamber of the patient. The apparatus includes a processor (14) for determining instantaneous volume of the ventricle by applying a non-linear relationship between the measured conductance and the volume of blood in the heart chamber to identify mechanical strength of the chamber. The processor (14) is in communication with the conductance catheter (12). |
| US07925329B2 |
Implantable doppler tomography system
The inventive implantable Doppler tomography system allows, for the first time, the use of Doppler shift for purposes of tracking cardiac wall motion. The present inventive Doppler tomography system methods and devices provide a critical new tool in the physician's armamentarium which provides accurate, real time monitoring of the mechanical performance of the heart. |
| US07925323B2 |
Radial electrode array
A sensor array apparatus for monitoring medical signals includes a first flexible substrate defining a central focal point and a second flexible substrate associated with the central focal point. A plurality of medical electrodes are disposed on the periphery of the first flexible substrate and a reference electrode is disposed on the second flexible substrate. A connector is in electrical communication with the medical electrodes and the reference electrode and adapted to connect to an electronic system. Bio-electric information is monitored between one of the medical electrodes and the reference electrode. |
| US07925322B2 |
Shroud-based electrodes having vented gaps
Apparatus and method according to the disclosure relate to promoting flow of body fluids in and around and between a substantially planar cardiac-sensing electrode and a shroud member utilizing spacing therebetween and/or one or more apertures, notches, slots and the like. For example, a relatively recessed area or aperture formed in an exemplary resin-based shroud member includes apertures that cooperate to promote flow of body fluids therearound. |
| US07925319B2 |
Wireless communication device for sending and receiving signals in a plurality of frequency bands
An wireless communication device with an antenna (400) for sending and receiving signals in a plurality of frequency bands generates a plurality of resonances in the plurality of frequency bands and includes a first radiating element (402) that generates a first resonance in a first frequency band, a second radiating element (404), coupled to and extending at an angle from the first radiating element (402), that generates a second resonance in the first frequency band, and a third radiating element (406), coupled to and extended at an angle from the first radiating element (402). A capacitive coupling between the second radiating element (404) and the third radiating element (406) generates a loop with a third resonance in the first frequency band, and the third radiating element (406) generates a fourth resonance in a second frequency band independent of the loop at the second frequency band. |
| US07925314B2 |
Foldable electronic device
A foldable electronic device including a first frame, a second frame, a first connecting rod, and a second connecting rod is provided. The first connecting rod has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end and the second end are respectively pivoted on one side of the first frame and the second frame. The second connecting rod has a third end and a fourth end, wherein the third end and the fourth end are respectively pivoted on the other side of the first frame and the second frame. The first connecting rod is suitable for rotating along a first axle, and the second connecting rod is suitable for rotating along a second axle, wherein the first axle is not coaxial with the second axle. |
| US07925313B2 |
Portable electronic device
A longitudinally-extending liquid crystal display part is provided at a front face of a first housing. A camera accommodation part is provided at an upper end of a second housing to bulge from a front face of the second housing and extend laterally, and an operating part is disposed in the second housing below the camera accommodation part. The first housing is supported by a cam mechanism (support mechanism) in the second housing changeably between a vertical position in which it is superposed on the second housing as viewed from the front face of the second housing and a horizontal position in which it lies orthogonal to the second housing to expose the operating part by turning the first housing on and along the front face of the second housing by means of the cam mechanism. |
| US07925310B2 |
Communication device with stickup structure
The present invention provides a communication device comprising an upper panel having a display unit disposed thereon, and a lower panel having a plurality of keys disposed thereon; and a stickup structure having a first rail disposed on the lower surface of the upper panel and a second rail disposed on the lower panel, the first rail engaging to the second rail, wherein the upper panel is moveable along the second rail and could be stickup by the stickup structure. |
| US07925308B2 |
Radio-frequency (RF) power portal
A system for powering a mobile device having an energy harvester which receives wireless energy and converts the energy into current includes a first portal in which wireless energy is transmitted for the energy harvester of the mobile device to receive and convert it into current when the device is in the first portal. The system comprises a second portal separate and apart from the first portal with a gap between the first portal and the second portal, the second portal in which wireless energy is transmitted for the energy harvester of the mobile device to receive and convert it into current after the device has passed through the first portal and the gap and is in the second portal. A method for powering a mobile device having an energy harvester which receives wireless energy and converts the energy into current is also disclosed. |
| US07925306B2 |
System and method for providing a preview of message content on a mobile device
Embodiments of a system and method for providing a preview of the content of messages (e.g. electronic mail messages) to users of mobile devices. A portion of the message body of a message associated with a user-identified list entry of a message list is shown in an area of a display screen (e.g. in a window) that overlaps the area in which one or more list entries of the message list is displayed. |
| US07925305B2 |
Portable communication terminal
There is provided a portable communication terminal capable of switching between icon display and non-display. Processes executed by a control unit of a portable phone which is an aspect of the portable communication terminal comprises the steps of detecting, during the execution of an icon-bar displaying process, a press of an operation key, terminating outputting icon data if the operation key is associated with the icon-bar non-display function and if there is already no icon bar being displayed, detecting a press of the operation key, and executing the icon-bar displaying process if the operation key is associated with the icon-bar display function and if there is no icon bar being displayed. |
| US07925304B1 |
Audio manipulation systems and methods
An audio manipulation method is provided. A call associated with a mobile device is received. Whether an audio manipulation flag is set for the mobile device is determined. An audio signal from the mobile device is manipulated based on an audio manipulation selection in response to a determination that the audio manipulation flag is set for the mobile device. The manipulated audio signal is routed to a receiver communicating with the mobile device. |
| US07925300B2 |
Printing content on a mobile device
A method of printing content is disclosed. The method starts by a server receiving a request for content. The server renders the content into a pre-rendered format before transferring the content in the pre-rendered format to a mobile telecommunications device. The content is then printed on a print medium in a media feed path of a printer module of the mobile telecommunications device. During the printing step, coded data disposed on the print medium is sensed using a sensor module in the media feed path of the printer module. The coded data encodes a print medium identifier which uniquely identifies the print medium. Finally, the content is associated with the print medium identifier for later retrieval using the print medium identifier. |
| US07925298B2 |
User interface for a secondary display module of a mobile electronic device
A user interface (UI) for use with a secondary display module of a mobile electronic device. The UI allows the user to access application data without activating the operating system (OS) of the main portion of the mobile electronic device. The UI can allow the user to access application data by activating the OS and an associated low-power application without launching the application. The UI also provides a simple mechanism to disable wireless components of the mobile electronic device while allowing the user to use other non-wireless components. The secondary display module can be detached from a main portion of the mobile electronic device, with the UI being automatically activated. The UI can be automatically activated (or deactivated) in response to deactivation (or activation) of the UI of the main display of the mobile electronic device. |
| US07925295B2 |
Handling communication interference in wireless systems
A method and devices are provided to allow reducing interferences occurring in adjacent wireless communication networks. When a subscriber device experiences interferences resulting from the operation of an adjacent wireless network, it transmits an adjustment signal which serves as a request for adjustment, to the base station operative at the adjacent wireless communication network. The adjacent base station that receives the adjustment signal retrieves adjustment information therefrom, and based on the retrieved information will determine whether it should effect a change in its transmission that would result in reducing the interferences experienced at the subscriber device sending the adjustment signal. |
| US07925290B2 |
System and method for efficiently providing high-performance dispatch services in a wireless system
A system and method for providing high performance dispatch services for a push-to-talk (PTT) communication over a wireless communication network. When a wireless device is powered up, it registers with a server and then transitions to a paging state instead of an idle state. When the wireless device is ready to transmit PTT communications, it sends a message to the server and transitions to a transmission state when a confirmation is received from the server. Once in the transmission state, the wireless device is ready to transmit the PTT communications to the server. |
| US07925283B2 |
Intelligent delivery agent for short message distribution center
A message distribution center (MDC) and Intelligent Delivery Agent are implemented in a wireless Internet gateway interposed between content providers and a wireless carrier to subjectively examine and direct messages via SMTP based on desired rules (e.g., non-peak hours, paying subscribers only, etc.) using standard SMTP Gateway and other well-known protocols. The MDC includes an individual queue for each subscriber, and the provider is informed through conventional SMTP protocol messages that the short message has been accepted. If the carrier has specifically disallowed service for a particular MIN (e.g., in the case of churning), then the content provider is informed through an SMTP interchange that the recipient is invalid. An MDC provides a single mechanism for interacting with subscribers of multiple carriers, regardless of each carrier's underlying infrastructure. For the carrier, an MDC can protect their SS7 network by intelligently throttling messages and configuring message delivery parameters to be more network friendly. An MDC can receive outside a relevant wireless network recipient handset presence information. In the disclosed embodiment, a content provider communicates with the MDC using SMTP protocol messages, and the MDC communicates with wireless carriers preferably using RMI/SMPP techniques. |
| US07925280B2 |
Method, and associated apparatus, of integrating extraction of extra partial identity bits with quick paging techniques where multiple pages share a message field
Apparatus, and an associated method, for facilitating paging of an access terminal. A detector detects delivery at the access terminal of a paging message. The paging message includes a group of identities that are ordered. The ordering is determinative of an extra identity bit conveyed with the paging message. |
| US07925277B2 |
Positioning system of positioning wireless communication apparatus
The invention provides a positioning system of positioning a wireless communication apparatus. The positioning system transmits and receives positioning signals which have different frequency bands and generates corresponding positioning values according to the positioning signals. The positioning system then judges and selects positioning values which have less error from the generated positioning values, and calculates an average value of the selected positioning values. Therefore, positioning of the wireless communication apparatus will be more precise. Furthermore, if the positioning system is implemented in a radio-wave-based wireless communication environment, the N positioning signals can be polarized in a linear polarization way, a left-handed circular polarization way or a right-handed circular polarization way, so as to reduce the environmental impact to enhance precision of the positioning. |
| US07925275B2 |
Method of area-based positioning using OMA secure user plane location in mobile communications system
A positioning method in a SUPL based position information (positioning) system, and particularly a positioning method capable of variously efficiently performing an area-based positioning (location tracking) performed by a location server or a mobile communications terminal when the location server and the mobile communications terminal respectively manage triggers generating the area-based positioning. |
| US07925273B2 |
Method and apparatus for updating the location of a mobile device within a wireless communication network
A location reporting paging communication system comprising space satellites, ground stations and a remote receiving unit adapted to resolve a global position from signals transmitted from a communication transmitter. The subscriber in possession of the remote receiving unit updates the paging network with global positioning information. A caller paging a subscriber in possession of the remote receiving unit may request the global location of the remote receiving unit. The paging network could divulge or block such information from a caller depending on the requirements of the subscriber. |
| US07925270B1 |
Antenna-to-base station selection system
A wireless communication system has a plurality of base stations. The wireless communication system maintains a data structure that indicates wireless communication capacity for the base stations by time. The wireless communication system processes a user location and the data structure to select base stations having capacity during selected timeframes. A user communication interface has antennas that exchange wireless communications with the selected base stations. The user communication interface selects the antennas to use for the wireless communications with the selected base stations. |
| US07925269B2 |
Method and system for establishing a channel for a wireless video area network
A method and system for establishing a channel in a wireless video area network, is provided. Establishing a channel involves scanning available high-rate and low-rate channels, selecting a channel from the available channels with minimal interference with other networks, determining if the selected channel remains available for a listening period, and if the selected channel remains available, then starting communication on the selected channel. The selected channel is a high-rate channel and a corresponding low-rate channel. |
| US07925267B2 |
Method for transmitting broadcast channel in a cellular wireless communication system
A method for transmitting to one cell a frame including broadcast channels in a cellular wireless communication system in which a base station supports a plurality of physical channels corresponding to the broadcast channels. The base station generates the frame and transmits the generated frame to a mobile station. The frame includes separate broadcast channels for the respective physical channels. A position, in the frame, of a first broadcast channel for a physical channel capable of supporting a mobile station having the worst channel state is fixed in all of transmission frames. The first broadcast channel includes positional information of the remaining broadcast channels except for the first broadcast channel. The mobile station detects only an address of a broadcast channel for a physical channel allocated thereto from the first broadcast channel among broadcast channels belonging to the frame. |
| US07925265B2 |
Method and apparatus for routing voice traffic over a residential gateway
A system and method for managing voice communication between devices located within a local network and other devices. The present invention permits the managing and selective routing of voice communications over VoIP systems, circuit-based cellular systems and public switched telephone network systems based upon predefined criteria such as Quality of Service (QoS) considerations, geographic considerations, cost considerations and other factors. |
| US07925261B2 |
Methods and apparatus for resovling frequency errors during transistion between communication networks
Methods and apparatus for resolving frequency errors in a wireless device transitioning from a first communication network to a second communication network are disclosed. The methods and apparatus effect reception of a first and second channels from the second communication network where the first channel has known characteristics. The first channel is then decoding for a prescribed period and an initial frequency error value is determined based on the decoding of the first channel. A digital frequency rotator is then adjusted based on the initial frequency error value for purposes of decoding the second channel. The second channel is then decoded using the digital frequency rotator as adjusted based on the initial frequency error value, without further calculation of the frequency error. |
| US07925260B2 |
Method for uplink spectrum monitoring for sparse overlay TDMA systems
Spectrum monitoring measurements are made by microcell base stations in a layered cellular network, while not serving calls or engaged in processing calls. The microcell base station transmits a first control message from to a microcell mobile station, to increase the duration for the mobile station to reside in the camping state on a control channel of the microcell base station. The microcell base station transmits a second control message from the microcell base station to the microcell mobile station, to increase the duration for the mobile station to reside in a call origination state while attempting to access a control channel of the microcell base station. Then, to perform the spectrum monitoring measurement, the base station's transmitter is turned off, the receiver is retuned to the frequency to be monitored, a signal strength measurement taken on that frequency, the receiver is retuned back to its assigned frequency, and the transmitter is turned back on, all in a short time interval. Because the measurement time is so short, it is possible to take spectrum-monitoring measurements without causing inactive mobiles registered on the measuring base station to reselect control channel. Mobiles initiating a call during a spectrum monitoring measurement by its base station are also delayed in their control channel reselection. |
| US07925258B2 |
Method of roaming in broadcast service and system and terminal thereof
A method, system, and terminal for handling or processing roaming errors between networks that can support broadcast services. When a roaming service between networks is requested, if a user authentication request is unsuccessful due to non-matching identification information between the networks, a corresponding error message is delivered to the subscriber terminal and network information that has been recently updated using various methods is provided such that repetitive requests and responses for authentication can be avoided when the subscriber requests a roaming service, and thus a roaming service between networks can be quickly provided without delays. |
| US07925254B2 |
Receiver
Cellular receivers, in the form of portable radiotelephones are commonplace, and their design and operation is well understood. Such portable radiotelephones can be used for making and receiving telephone calls, sending and receiving messages, and even browsing world-wide computer network such as the Internet. Many standards exist for portable radiotelephones, including global system for mobile communications (GSM), general radio packet service (GPRS).Receivers capable of receiving digital television signals; such as signals according to the terrestrial digital video broadcasting (DVB-T) standard are also commonplace.The present invention provides a method and apparatus for receiving and transmitting signals via multiple communication channels. |
| US07925251B2 |
Automatic delay calibration and tracking for ultra-wideband antenna array
A method for determining changes in internal delays of RF units, the RF units including a plurality of receivers and transmitters. The method includes providing initial direct signals' time of arrivals of the RF units initial internal delays of the RF units. Following this, each transmitter transmitting a direct signal, and the real-time direct signal's time of arrivals of the RF units, are measured. Then, changes in internal delays of the RF units are calculated based on the real-time direct signals' time of arrivals and initial direct signals' time of arrivals. And finally, real-time internal delays of the RF units are calculated based on the changes in internal delays and the initial internal delays of the RF units. |
| US07925246B2 |
Radio/telephony interoperability system
A radio/telephony interoperability architecture that facilitates intercommunications between a security services network, elected officials and/or emergency services network and a telephony management system for one-way and two-way security and/or emergency teleconferencing communications. The telephony system creates a session in which one or more session participants can communicate with front-line mobile radio operators (e.g., first responder personnel) and radio band components. Mobile radio systems can be accessed via circuit-switched and packet-switched networks with communications capable of existing between horizontal services entities (e.g., city fire and police) and vertical entities (e.g., city, state, and federal agencies and personnel). Furthermore, the presence of participants and potential participants is provided to authorized users to facilitate the establishment of such conferences. Notifications and alarms are used to alert participants and potential participants of important events. |
| US07925245B1 |
System and methods for wirelessly providing update information of and downloading previously obtained content to a newly activated mobile station
A system and method for merchandizing content to wireless subscribers that have upgraded their mobile station or service is disclosed. The wireless carrier maintains a database of identifying data for content downloaded to subscribers' mobile stations. When a subscriber upgrades his or her mobile station the wireless carrier searches the database for previously downloaded content, identifies the equivalent content that is compatible with the new mobile station and provides the information of available equivalent downloads to the mobile station. |
| US07925241B2 |
Using PIM calendar on a mobile device to configure a profile
A method of automatically changing a profile in a mobile communication device, wherein the mobile communication device is equipped with a calendar mechanism includes setting an event begin time and an event end time in the calendar mechanism; selecting an event profile to be in use during the event; detecting the beginning time for the event; recording and storing the profile in effect prior to the event begin time; activating the selected event profile to be in use during the event; detecting the end time for the event and restoring the profile in effect prior to the event begin time; which includes, during mobile communication device power on, detecting whether an event is in progress and selecting an event profile to be in use during the event; and detecting whether an event which was in progress at a last mobile communication device power off has ended, and selecting a profile to be in use at the time of the mobile communication device power on. |
| US07925240B2 |
Mobile communication terminal and method of indicating speakerphone mode information thereof
A mobile communication terminal and method of indicating speakerphone mode thereof are disclosed, by which a far-end user can be informed whether a speakerphone mode of the mobile communication terminal is entered. The present invention includes a radio frequency part communicating with a base station, a microphone/speaker inputting a voice of a first user and outputting a voice of a second user, an input unit inputting a command for activating/deactivating a speakerphone mode and a command for making a call to the far-end user or answering a call from the far-end user, and a controller transmitting a speakerphone mode information to the base station using the radio frequency part via a reverse channel if the microphone/speaker is used according to the command for activating the speakerphone mode. Accordingly, the first user is able to inform the second user that the first user is using a speakerphone regardless of a status of the call connection, that the user is making a call or that it is before answering an incoming call. |
| US07925234B2 |
Method for maximal ratio combining of spatially filtered signals and apparatus therefor
The present invention relates to a maximum ratio combining method of spatial-filtered received signals and an apparatus using the same. For this purpose the present invention provides a method for receiving signals by using a plurality of antennas that form a linear array antenna, multiplying a plurality of weight vectors by the received signals, summing the multiplication results for each weight vector, and combining the summing results by using maximum ratio combining. According to the present invention, signals are dividedly received by applying spatial filtering for a receiving direction of each signal and performance can be improved by combining the received signals by using maximum ratio combining. In addition, performance of an MRC-rake and a beam forming gain can be simultaneously acquired according to the present invention. |
| US07925233B2 |
Methods for handling measurement reports in a wireless communication system
A method of handling measurement reports for a mobile station of a wireless communications system includes: receiving a control message from the base station, wherein the control message is configured for asking the mobile station to transit from a first state to a second state different from the first state; and blocking the mobile station from sending a measurement report to the base station before the mobile station transits to the second state. |
| US07925232B2 |
Reduced cost mobile satellite antenna system using a plurality of satellite transponders
A system for utilizing circular polarized signals to perform satellite communication to mobile users. The satellite includes transponders, each transponder providing linearly polarized signals and at least two orthogonal linear polarized transponders. A plurality of mobile users with a circularly polarized antenna for receiving signals from the satellite, and singly circular or linear polarized transmit antennas for transmitting signals to the satellite. Circuits for providing a correction scheme implemented in a hub side to offset frequency error between two channels produced by the satellite transponder local oscillators mismatch. |
| US07925230B2 |
Diversity receiver with channel estimator
A diversity receiver includes a plurality of antennas to receive radio frequency signals. A plurality of receiver circuits are each coupled to a respective one of the plurality of antennas to process the received radio frequency signals, and a channel estimator is coupled to at least one of the receiver circuits to determine at least one of channel estimation values for the received radio frequency signals. A controller is coupled to the channel estimator and to at least one of the receiver circuits and selectively activates or deactivates the at least one receiver circuit based on the determined at least one channel estimation value. |
| US07925228B2 |
Method and system for calibrating quadrature modulators
A calibration method and system for reducing modulation errors in a telecommunication transmitter apparatus includes providing a pair of test signals, which are substantially in quadrature to each other, and to repeat an estimation loop. The estimation loop starts with generating a modulated signal by modulating the test signals (the modulation introducing a modulation error) and continues by obtaining a squared signal corresponding to the square of the modulated signal. A transformed signal corresponding to the squared signal in the frequency domain is then calculated. The estimation loop further includes calculating an error indicator, indicative of the modulation error, according to the modulus of the transformed signal. A compensation, to be applied to the test signals for counterbalancing the modulation error, is calculated according to the error indicator and is then applied to the test signals. The estimation loop is repeated until the error indicator reaches a threshold and an indication of the compensation resulting from a last iteration of the estimation loop is stored (for the application of the compensation to each pair of operative signals managed by the telecommunication transmitter apparatus during operation thereof). |
| US07925227B2 |
Multi-band amplifier module with harmonic suppression
An amplifier circuit includes a first power amplifier that can produce a first amplified signal in response to a first input signal in a first frequency band, and a second power amplifier that can produce a second amplified signal in response to a second input signal in a second frequency band. A center frequency of the second frequency band is higher than the a center frequency of frequency band A control circuit can turn on or turn off the first power amplifier and configured to turn on or turn off the second power amplifier. A shunting circuit is coupled to an output of the second power amplifier. The shunting circuit can attenuate harmonic signals from the first frequency band under the control of the control circuit. |
| US07925225B2 |
System and method for multiple input multiple output wireless transmission
Systems and methods for MIMO wireless transmission are provided. At the transmitter, a plurality of encoded packets are modulated, and the symbols are divided between several transmit antennas. The transmitter spreads some of the symbols of each packet using a respective subset of an available Walsh code space. A given transmit antenna then transmits part of each packet spread by the respective subset. In some implementations, this achieves the benefits of the PARC system, and at the same time achieves part of the benefits of the STTD system. Advantageously, only a single reverse link control channel is required if adaptive coding and modulation is to be performed. |
| US07925219B2 |
Wireless video surveillance jamming and interference prevention
A wireless video surveillance system having automatic self-configuration of the input capture devices and digital input recorder(s), and further including jamming and interference prevention capabilities. |
| US07925215B2 |
Communication system, communication apparatus, communication method, and program to reduce communication time in near field communications
A communication system, a communication device and a communication method, to achieve a reduction in communication time. When performing communication in passive mode, the initiator transmits a polling request frame where a first value is set in time slot information, and when performing communication in simple mode, the initiator transmits a polling request frame where a second value different from the first value is set in time slot information. When the time slot information included in the polling request frame from the initiator has the first value, the target transmits a polling response frame including an ID for identifying the target at the timing of a time slot determined by a random number, and when the time slot information has the second value, the target transmits a polling response frame including real data at the timing of a time slot set in advance. |
| US07925210B2 |
Synchronizing a radio network with end user radio terminals
Synchronizing a Radio Network with End User Radio Terminals A Mobile Station that is able to receive GPS signals and compare the frequency of the GPS received time signal with a time signal from a network in order to determine the difference between the signals and communicate that difference back to the network. |
| US07925208B2 |
Multi-spot-beam satellite system with broadcast and surge capacity capability
A payload design for a multi-spot-beam satellite communication system includes a plurality of uplink spot beam receivers and downlink spot beam transmitters, and a broadcast transmitting subsystem capable of transmitting a broadcast beam to an entire system geographical service area. An input filter-switch-matrix (IFSM) controllably selects input IF signal bands for routing to an on-board digital signal processor-router (DSPR). The DSPR subsequently routes all received point-to-point and broadcast data packets to the appropriate downlink spot or broadcast transmitting subsystems for transmission thereof. The broadcast downlink allows broadcast transmissions to occur at the highest efficiency possible, while also allowing for flexible provision of surge capacity for point-to-point transmissions on previously exhausted spot beams by selective use of the broadcast beam for such point-to-point transmissions. |
| US07925206B2 |
Systems and methods for providing adaptive wireless connectivity
A new approach to adaptive wireless communications suitable for use in military environments and for other purposes is provided. One technique for reliably communicating between a first node and a second node includes the broad steps of establishing a wireless connection between the first node and the second node at a level of communication, monitoring a quality of the wireless connection, adjusting the level of communication if the quality of the wireless connection crosses a threshold, and repeating the monitoring and adjusting steps throughout the duration of the wireless communication cooperatively using the in-band or out-of-band signaling schemes and negotiating the appropriate level of communication link avoiding excessive link outages and signaling overheads. By communicating at a level appropriate for the quality of signals received and adjusting the level as the quality changes, the overall reliability of the wireless communication is improved. |
| US07925205B2 |
System and method of operation for network overlay geolocation system with repeaters
A novel system and method for a network overlay geolocation system operating in a host wireless communication system with repeaters is disclosed. Embodiments of the novel system and method enable wireless communication system to determine if signals being received by system receivers arrive directly from a target mobile appliance or if the signals are passing through a repeater. The system's determination may be based at least in part on the TA of the signal, the power of the received signal, the power of the transmitted signal, the hearabiltiy of the signal at system receivers, the hearabiltiy of system transmitters at the mobile and the known delays associated with the repeaters. Embodiments of the novel system and method provide a more accurate geolocation of mobiles served by repeater stations than capable in the prior art. |
| US07925202B2 |
Portable communication device for an advanced display
A portable communication device equipped with a screen and a random access memory. The device receives a data stream through a radio link for automatically displaying information from the data stream on a display screen, without any user's request, a part of this information being stored in random access memory during a period of time that is longer than the duration of display and displays information from the data stream on the display screen, upon user's request, this information being stored in random access memory during the duration of display only. |
| US07925197B2 |
Fixing apparatus of image forming apparatus
A heat roller of a fixing apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention has a slidable metal belt on an outer side of an elastic roller. At the room temperature, the outer diameter of the elastic roller is smaller than the inner diameter of the metal belt. On the other hand, when the elastic roller is thermally expanded, the metal belt and the elastic roller fit onto each other in a state in which the metal belt fastens the elastic roller. |
| US07925194B2 |
Developing unit and image forming apparatus using the same
A developing unit to supply toner to a photosensitive medium of an image forming apparatus to form an image thereon, including a housing to hold a toner of a predetermined color, a developing roller which is coupled to the housing to be rotatable in a direction opposite to a moving direction of the photosensitive medium, to supply the photosensitive medium with the toner, and to form the image by potential difference, and a regulating blade including a coupling end part coupled to the housing and a free end part double bent with regard to the coupling end part to contact the developing roller at a tip part thereof. |
| US07925192B2 |
Developing roller, developing device, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A developing roller includes a developing sleeve and a magnet roller disposed within the developing sleeve to attract developer to an outer surface of the developing sleeve by magnetic force. The outer surface of the developing sleeve has a plurality of recesses of circular or elliptic shape in plan view regularly or irregularly arranged therein so as not to overlap. |
| US07925187B2 |
Development device, image forming apparatus and development method
A development device including a development roller to bear a development agent including toner, a development agent supplying roller which is provided adjacent to the development roller to supply the development agent to the development roller, a regulation applicator to regulate the layer thickness of the development agent on the development roller and a capture device to capture the development agent finely powdered by the regulation applicator. |
| US07925185B2 |
Fixing device for image forming apparatus
A fixing device according to an embodiment of the invention is provided with a center coil and a side coil to induction heat a metal roller which supports a belt. An auxiliary pressurizing member which is adjacent to an opposing roller which supports the belt and presses the belt against a heat roller is provided. The distance from the center position of induction heating of a heat roller to an entrance of a nip is equalized to the distance from the center position of induction heating of the metal roller to the entrance of the nip. The distance from the temperature reading position of the heat roller to the center position of induction heating of the heat roller is equalized to the distance from the temperature reading position of the belt to the center position of induction heating of the metal roller. |
| US07925184B2 |
Developer supply container mountable to a hollow portion of a rotatble photosensitive member and developer supplying system having such
A developer supply container (1) detachably mountable to a hollow portion of a rotatable photosensitive member (100) provided in a electrophotographic image forming apparatus, the container including a rotatable container body having an inner space for containing a developer; a feeding portion (5) for feeding the developer in the container body with a rotation of the container body to discharge the developer out of the container body; and a engageable portion (3a) which is engageable with the photosensitive member so that container body is rotated integrally with the photosensitive member by a rotational driving force received from a driving member (104) provided in the electrophotographic image forming apparatus. |
| US07925178B2 |
Image forming apparatus with display section which displays a guide screen
The present invention can print out operating instructions, HELP documents, the latest image forming apparatus information, support and maintenance information, advertisements about new models and services, and the like without incrementing a charging counter. Without caring about the charging, users can print out operating instructions, HELP documents, the latest image forming apparatus information, support and maintenance information, advertisements about new models and services, and the like. |
| US07925177B2 |
Image fixing apparatus stably controlling a fixing temperature, and image forming apparatus using the same
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming mechanism and an image fixing unit. The image forming mechanism forms a toner image on a recording sheet. The image fixing unit fixes the toner image onto the recording sheet. The image fixing unit includes a magnetic flux generator, a heat member, a magnetic flux adjuster, and a controlling member. The magnetic flux generator generates a magnetic flux. The heat member is heated inductively by the magnetic flux generated by the magnetic flux generator. The magnetic flux adjuster reduces the magnetic flux active on the heat member to form a heat reduction area in an outer circumferential surface of the heat member in a width direction thereof. The controlling member moves the magnetic flux adjuster to change the heat reduction area. |
| US07925176B2 |
Transfer voltage control method of image forming apparatus
A transfer voltage control method of an image forming apparatus includes supplying a first measurement voltage to a first transfer member and a second transfer member, measuring a variation in resistance of the first transfer member by supplying a second measurement voltage to the first transfer member during a first period of time, and measuring a variation in resistance of the second transfer member by supplying the second measurement voltage during a second period of time. Therefore, it is capable of measuring accurately a variation in resistance of a transfer unit, such that an optimum transfer voltage may be set. Accordingly, transfer quality of an image forming apparatus is improved. |
| US07925174B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus includes a latent image carrier, a developing unit to develop a latent image on the image carrier with developer including toner and carrier, a developer bearing member, a first detector to detect a toner adhesion amount per unit area of a toner image developed by the developing unit, a second detector to detect humidity, and a controller to calculate an index indicating toner chargeability of the carrier based on detection results of the toner adhesion amount obtained by the first detector and perform a given control process based on calculation results thereof and including a data storage unit to store an algorithm to correct the index to a specific value according to a specific humidity, based on detection results of the humidity obtained by the second detector. The controller corrects the index obtained based on the amount of toner adhesion based on the algorithm. |
| US07925170B2 |
Predistortion circuit including distortion generator diodes with adjustable diode bias
A predistortion circuit provides a predistorted input signal that compensates for distortion generated by a non-linear amplifier such as a laser device. The predistortion circuit may be used in an optical transmitter designed for broadband applications, such as a laser transmitter used for forward path CATV applications. The predistortion circuit may include a primary signal path and a secondary signal path that receive an input signal. A second order distortion generator on the secondary signal path generates predistortion of a magnitude corresponding to the magnitude of, but at an opposite phase to, the distortion generated by the non-linear amplifier. The second order distortion generator includes diodes with an adjustable diode bias to control phase, magnitude and/or magnitude/phase versus frequency of the predistortion. |
| US07925169B2 |
Photonic encoder
A modulator arrangement for modulating an optical signal using a differential quadrature phase shift key for use in an optical wavelength division multiplex (WDM) optical communications system comprising a laser for producing an optical signal of a selected wavelength, which signal is split by a splitter (4), each part of said split signal being applied to a respective phase modulator (6, 8). The phase modulators (6, 8) are adapted to modulate the phase of the signal in dependence on a respective drive voltage and the phase of the output of at least one modulator is shiftable. The split signals are recombined by an optical recombiner (12) to form an optical phase shift key output. The arrangement further comprises a phase modulator (20) adapted to chirp the optical phase shift key output. |
| US07925168B2 |
Optical interconnect system providing communication between computer system components
An optical interconnect system for communication between computer system components is described. The system includes an optical data communication path and a plurality of optical taps, each optical tap optically coupling a respective computer system component to the optical data communication path. Each optical tap splits power from an optical signal received from the data communication path or from a light source generating a data signal from its associated computer component resulting in another optical signal. Each optical tap splits light in accordance with a respective power ratio relationship between reflectivity and transmissivity. The ratio relationships of the optical taps together provide a predetermined communication reliability metric for signals traversing the optical interconnect system between computer system components. |
| US07925167B1 |
Satellite downlink via patterns of uncollimated light
A satellite or spacecraft in low Earth orbit, when in eclipse and not illuminated by sunlight, represents a low-bandwidth datastream through modulation of a source of uncollimated light, such as a set of light emitting diodes. Transmission modes include generating patterns in the color, intensity or polarization of a light source, or precise timing control of a strobe signal. A ground station tracks the satellite in a telescope, stewing the telescope to follow the satellite as it moves across the sky, recording light generated by the satellite with a light sensor such as a video camera. The datastream is regenerated through analysis of recorded video. Satellite downlink is initiated by detection of eclipse, by command via radio uplink, or in response to a periodic automatic timer. In an alternative embodiment, the satellite represents the datastream through modulation of its effective albedo or reflective flux during periods of solar illumination. |
| US07925165B2 |
Packet and optical routing equipment and method
A packet and optical routing equipment exchanges multiplexed optical signals with other equipment in a network and exchanges branch non-packet and packet signals with client equipment. The entering branch non-packet signals are converted into electric signals by a non-packet interface and supplied directly to an electric switching unit, the entering packet branch signals are converted into electric signals, supplied to a packet forwarding module and routed to the electric switching unit. The electric switching unit switches the electric signals toward a WDM interface that converts them into optical signals at selected wavelengths that are added to the multiplexed optical signals. The entering multiplexed optical signals that should be terminated in the equipment are extracted, converted into electrical signals, and electrically switched toward the non-packet interface or the packet forwarding module according to whether they are of non-packet or of a packet type. The switching unit is of configurable type and may switch a variable ratio of electric non-packet and packet signals according to the traffic requirements. |
| US07925163B2 |
Assignment of channel colors in optical networks
A model is provided for optimizing an optical network wherein single links carry multiple signals by using multiple color channels. The routes in the optimized network minimize mid-route color changeovers, reducing the number of nodes requiring optical-electric-optical signal conversion. In the model, the minimized objective function includes terms representing total color miles, terms penalizing changeovers, and terms representing total nodes passed by routes. |
| US07925161B2 |
Method and system for configuring a connection-oriented packet network over a wavelength division multiplexed optical network
A network planning tool and method for configuring a connection-oriented packet network over a WDM optical network without an optical control layer, such as a SONET/SDH layer. The optical network includes a plurality of optical fibers interconnected through nodes and the connection-oriented packet network, such an Ethernet network, MPLS network, or pseudowire network, includes two or more terminal devices. The method and tool function by building an association between the components of the physical layer, such as the optical fiber, and their geographic location or path. The connection-oriented packet network is configured by building multi-link trunks (MLTs) between terminal devices, where the MLTs are built by aggregating lightpaths that traverse distinctive geographic paths. The MLTs are planned and configured through aggregating lightpaths that traverse incongruent sets of photonic elements. A predetermined target for resiliency to physical failure events may determine the degree of congruence allowed between the sets of photonic elements associated with lightpaths in the same MLT. |
| US07925159B2 |
Non-directional laser-based self-protection
A missile or other weapons countermeasure system includes a non-directional, modulated laser energy signal designed to protect an object (such as an aircraft, land vehicle, building, or vessel). Once a potential threat has been detected, a laser energy source generates a laser energy signal of sufficient power to provide the necessary coverage. The laser energy is modulated using an oscillator to create the appropriate countermeasure signal. Next, fiber optics or other coupling device distribute the modulated laser energy signal to one or more apertures, preferably wide angle lenses or the like, disposed about the outer surface of the object to be protected. The number and location of the apertures will depend upon the circumstances of the installation as well as the desired coverage. |
| US07925157B2 |
Ranging method and system for passive optical network and optical network unit thereof
A ranging method and system for passive optical network, and an optical network unit are provided. The ranging method includes: sending an initial ranging signal to a splitter loop-back device and recording a current sending time as a first time; receiving a loop-back ranging signal from the splitter loop-back device, and determining whether the loop-back ranging signal is a return signal of the initial ranging signal; if the loop-back ranging signal is a return signal of the initial ranging signal, recording a current receiving time as a second time; and obtaining ranging information by calculating a difference between the first time and the second time, and performing a ranging on the basis of the ranging information. |
| US07925156B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring the quality of burst signals and performing optical line diagnostics
Apparatus and method to measure the quality of burst signals and to perform optical line diagnostics in and optical passive optical network (PON). Statistical information about phase noise (jitter), signal distortion, clock distortions, and any other effects present in burst signals is generated. The statistics are based on phase and bit-length distortions, direction and length of the effect as detected by a phase error detector integrated in a burst mode clock and data recovery (BCDR) circuit. The invention can be further adapted to perform optical line diagnostics to detect the root cause performance degradation and failures in the PON, thereby providing an optical layer supervision tool for monitoring the PON. The statistical information can be used to estimate the quality of service (QoS) per customer connected to the PON. In addition, the generated statistic information can be used to calibrate transmission parameters of optical network unit (ONU) transmitters. |
| US07925155B2 |
Transmitting broadcast signals in a communication network
In one embodiment, a facilitating signal broadcasting includes receiving a first copy of a signal at a first selector of a first headend, where the first copy is received through a first receive pipe of a first ring. A second copy of the signal is received at the first selector, where the second copy is received through a second receive pipe of a second ring. The first selector selects either the first copy or the second copy. The selected copy is sent through a first transmit pipe of the first ring. |
| US07925154B2 |
Camera module and method of manufacturing the same
Provided is a camera module including an image sensor module including a substrate; an image sensor that is mounted on a top surface of the substrate; a ground pad that is disposed on a bottom surface of the substrate; and a sealing member that seals the image sensor mounted on the substrate; a lens member that is stacked on the image sensor module; and a conductive member that is formed on side surfaces of the image sensor module and the lens member so as to be electrically connected to the ground pad. |
| US07925153B2 |
Imaging apparatus and control method thereof
An imaging apparatus includes an image sensor, a diaphragm control unit configured to control an aperture value of a diaphragm, and an electronic shutter control unit configured to control an operation of an electronic shutter for adjusting a charge accumulation time of the image sensor by adjusting a driving timing of the image sensor, wherein, if driving of the diaphragm overlaps a charge accumulation time when the aperture value is changed from a first aperture value to a second aperture value, the electronic shutter control unit controls a time of charge accumulation corresponding to the second aperture value in the charge accumulation time such that a brightness of an image signal output from the imaging unit when the first aperture value is set and a brightness of an image signal output from the imaging unit when the second aperture value is set become approximately equal to each other. |
| US07925152B2 |
Exposure control method
An exposure control method adjusts an exposure setting used for capturing an image including a foreground object and a background. The foreground object is extracted from the image by an object detection procedure. If the area of the foreground object is greater than a predetermined area value, the brightness of both the foreground object and the background is analyzed. On the contrary, if the area of the foreground object is not greater than the predetermined area value, only the brightness of the background is analyzed. The exposure setting is adjusted according to the analysis result. Accordingly, greater brightness stability is provided during the capture of the following images. |
| US07925150B2 |
Camera system, camera body, flash device, and illumination method
A camera system includes: a light emitting unit that performs a main emission of light in which during photography a photographic subject is illuminated with a first light having a first color temperature, and a preparatory emission of light in which the photographic subject is illuminated with a second light having a second color temperature before photography; an imaging element that outputs an image capture signal; a calculator that calculates an amount of the first light by the light emitting unit, based upon the image capture signal output during the preparatory emission of light; a corrector that corrects the calculated amount of the first light, based upon a color temperature difference between the first color temperature and the second color temperature; and a controller that controls the light emitting unit to perform the main emission of light at the amount of the first light after correction by the corrector. |
| US07925147B2 |
Mobile terminal having camera flash and method for controlling camera flash
A mobile terminal including an LED camera flash includes a lens, which is for photographing an object, an image sensing unit, which generates a sensor result value by executing automatic exposure and automatic white balance, a flash module, which includes a flash driving unit that controls the LED camera flash, an actuator, which moves the lens and records a distance traveled by the lens, and a camera control module, which sets an exposure gain value by using the sensor result value, extracts a distance current value and a distance gain value by using position information of the lens that is determined by using the distance traveled by the lens, and controls the flash driving unit so as to adjust a brightness of the LED camera flash according to a gain correction value, which is set by using the exposure gain value, the distance current value and the distance gain value. |
| US07925144B2 |
Image stabilizing apparatus and optical apparatus
An image stabilizing apparatus is disclosed which is capable of sufficiently correcting shift shakes even with a small and lightweight accelerometer. The apparatus includes an angular velocity detector which detects angular velocity generated by a shake, an angular velocity computing unit which processes an angular velocity signal, the unit processing the angular velocity signal with a first frequency characteristic, an acceleration detector which detects acceleration generated by the shake, an acceleration computing unit which processes an acceleration signal, the unit processing the acceleration signal with a second frequency characteristic having a signal processing band narrower than the first frequency characteristic, an adder which adds an output signal from the angular velocity computing unit to an output signal from the acceleration computing unit, and an image stabilizing mechanism which performs an image stabilizing operation based on an output signal from the adder. |
| US07925142B2 |
Apparatus for presenting information and method thereof
An information presenting apparatus, based on display status on a screen, estimates text blocks that a user is likely to classify as poor-legibility blocks and is likely to wish to be read aloud. A simple device that allows selecting from the text blocks is provided. A poor-legibility-block extractor divides text to be displayed on the screen into blocks corresponding to individual text blocks, classifies blocks including characters of sizes less than or equal to a predetermined size as poor-legibility blocks, and assigns block numbers to the poor-legibility blocks. A document display unit displays areas of the respective poor-legibility blocks as distinguished from other areas, with block numbers assigned to the respective poor-legibility blocks. When the user presses a numeric key corresponding to a block number, text in the corresponding block is read aloud. |
| US07925136B2 |
Method and apparatus for recording information in battery operated devices
A technique for recording information in a battery operated device is provided such that quality level of the recorded information may be changed “on the fly.” In one embodiment, while persistently recording information at a first quality level, the battery operated device may, in response to an input a desire or need to change recording quality level, thereafter persistently record the information at a second quality level different from the first quality level, without interrupting the continuity of the recording session. In a presently preferred embodiment, the information being recorded may comprise video information or audio information. Subsequent inputs indicating the need to change recording quality level yet again may also be received thereby causing the battery operated device to persistently record the information at yet another quality level, which quality level may be the same as the first quality level. |
| US07925130B2 |
Optical waveguide, optical module, method of producing optical module, and method of producing optical waveguide
An optical waveguide comprising: a waveguide core through which light propagates; a cladding that surrounds the waveguide core and has a refractive index that is less than the refractive index of the waveguide core; a metal layer that is formed on a surface of at least one end of the optical waveguide in a longitudinal direction, the surface being inclined so as not to be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction; and a channel that is formed at a portion of an outer surface of the cladding, the outer surface forming an acute angle with the inclined surface, and the channel being positioned such that light entering the optical waveguide adjacent the channel is reflected by the inclined surface into the waveguide core. |
| US07925126B2 |
Fiber sensing system with self-detection mechanism
The present invention discloses a fiber sensing system with self-detection mechanism which utilizes a central office to control secondary ring architecture formed by fiber sensor, remote node and optical coupler primarily. The secondary ring architecture is connected serially to form a primary ring architecture. The central office has a tunable laser light source that can deliver the light source to the fiber sensor. Since the fiber sensor has reflective ability, all light source signal sent by the tunable laser light source will be detected and measured by the fiber sensor. Thus central office can detect all signals reflected by the fiber sensor and produce a spectrum for analyzing fault point locations. The present invention can greatly enhance survivability and sensing capacity of all fiber sensors, so that when a fault point caused by environmental change within the fiber, it will not effect the overall operation of the sensing mechanism. The application of fiber sensor can also reduce cost and complexity of the overall fiber network topology. |
| US07925123B2 |
Optical control device
A light control element is provided with a thin board having electro-optical effects; an optical waveguide formed on the thin board; and a control electrode for controlling light that passes through the optical waveguide. The light control element performs speed matching between a microwave signal applied to the control electrode and the light, impedance matching of the microwaves, reduction of a driving voltage and high speed operation. In the control electrode of the light control element, a signal electrode and a grounding electrode are arranged on an upper side of the thin board, and on a lower side of the thin board, a second electrode including the grounding electrode is arranged, through a low refractive index layer entirely formed in the length direction of the signal electrode, with a width wider than that of the signal electrode. |
| US07925117B2 |
Fusion of sensor data and synthetic data to form an integrated image
A system and method for fusing sensor data and synthetic data to form an integrated image are described. An image registration process is used to fuse the images. The image registration process is performed on gradients of a landmark image. The gradients are extracted from both sensor and synthetic datasets for the landmark image. Using the image gradient, a center of mass for each of the gradient's curves is calculated. By solving a minimization problem to reduce error, a desired transformation operator can be obtained to match the sensor image to the synthetic image. |
| US07925101B2 |
Apparatus for controlling image compression
A method and apparatus for controlling image compression is disclosed. A current block of pixels is firstly compressed. The average pixel size of the compressed current block is averaged with an average pixel size of preceding block or blocks to obtain an average value. The compressed current block is passed as output, if the average value is not greater than a target value; otherwise a portion of the current block prior to compression is truncated and then passed as the output. |
| US07925098B2 |
Image encoding apparatus and method with both lossy and lossless means
This invention is to generate encoded data within a target amount. A first encoding unit generates lossy encoded data of each pixel block by using a quantization matrix Qi specified by a parameter i. A second encoding unit generates lossless encoded data of each pixel block. Let Lx be the lossless encoded data length, and Ly be the lossy encoded data length. A control unit determines, using a nonlinear boundary function fi,j( ) specified by the parameters i and j, whether condition: Ly |
| US07925097B2 |
Image display method, image coding apparatus, and image decoding apparatus
An image coding apparatus is provided which satisfies various levels of demands on image distribution, both from image providers and from users. The image coding apparatus includes a coding block which codes predetermined image data. A separation unit separates the coded image data into basic data for reproducing contents of the coded image data as a visible image, and complementary data for complementing the basic data, so that the two pieces of data are distributed on different occasions. An adding unit adds information for independent copyright control to at least either one of the basic data and the complementary data. |
| US07925092B2 |
Hand writing input device
A hand-writing input device comprises: an input surface, a guidance device provided on the input surface along a predetermined track to guide a finger or pen along the track; a plurality of switch elements provided at particular positions on the track. When a particular character is inputted, the triggered switch element outputs the corresponding signal, and the combinations of the signals outputted by the switch elements correspond to the inputted characters. Since hand-writing input is performed by guiding a finger or pen along a predetermined track, only few switch elements are needed, thereby simplifying hand-writing recognition, reducing software requirements and increasing recognition accuracy. |
| US07925090B2 |
Method of determining photo mask, method of manufacturing semiconductor device, and computer program product
A method of determining a photo mask, includes specifying a mask pattern for a photo mask for a first exposure apparatus, specifying a plurality of exposure conditions allowed to be set for a second exposure apparatus, predicting a projection image of the mask pattern to be projected on a substrate by the second exposure apparatus, for each of the exposure conditions, predicting a processed pattern to be formed on a substrate surface on the basis of the projection image, for each of the exposure conditions, determining whether or not the processed pattern meets a predetermined condition for each of the exposure conditions, and determining that the photo mask is applicable to the second exposure apparatus if the processed pattern meets the predetermined condition for at least one of the exposure conditions. |
| US07925089B2 |
Optimization of multi-label problems in computer vision
A method of labeling pixels in an image is described where the pixel label is selected from a set of three or more labels. The pixel labeling problem is reduced to a sequence of binary optimizations by representing the label value for each pixel as a binary word and then optimizing the value of each bit within the word, starting with the most significant bit. Data which has been learned from one or more training images is used in the optimization to provide information about the less significant bits within the word. |
| US07925085B2 |
Image data processing device and image data processing method
An image data processing device for converting original data containing gradation-value data, into processed data containing multilevel-value data. The processing device includes: (a) a processed-image gradation-value data generator for generating, based on the original data, gradation-value data relating to each pixel of the processed image, by causing a plurality of pixel lines constituting the processed image to be sequentially subjected to a line processing; (b) a processed-image multilevel-value data generator for generating, based on the generated gradation-value data and according to an error diffusion technique, the multilevel value data relating to each pixel of the processed image, by causing the plurality of pixel lines to be sequentially subjected to a line processing; and (c) a line-processing direction controller for causing the line processings to be executed on each pixel line in the same direction, and to invert each of processing directions of the respective line processings each time when the subjected pixel line is shifted from one to another. Also disclosed is an image data processing method. |
| US07925081B2 |
Systems and methods for human body pose estimation
Systems and computer-implemented methods for use in body pose estimation are provided. Training data is obtained, where the training data includes observation vector data and corresponding pose vector data for a plurality of images. The observation vector data is representative of the images in observation space. The pose vector data is representative of the same images in pose space. Based on the training data, a model is computed that includes parameters of mapping from the observation space to latent space, parameters of mapping from the latent space to the pose space, and parameters of the latent space. The latent space has a lower dimensionality than the observation space and the pose space. |
| US07925074B2 |
Adaptive background propagation method and device therefor
In one implementation, a method for reducing reconstruction artifacts in a combined image constructed of a multiple images is provided. The method may include identifying pixels in images that are in a selected range. The identified pixels are replaced the with a substitute pixel value. The images with the substitute pixel values are combined to form a combined image having reduced reconstruction artifacts. |
| US07925067B2 |
Focusable virtual microscopy apparatus and method
A virtual microscope slide includes images of a specimen for a given level of optical magnification which are associated and stored in a data structure. The forming of the data structure having the multiple Z-plane images preferably includes automatically focusing at a principal reference focal plane and capturing and digitizing an optically magnified reference Z-image and then shifting the specimen relative to the lens system by a predetermined increment to capture and digitize another Z-plane image. Preferably, a multiple sequence of Z-plane images above and below the reference image and captured and digitized. For ease of retrieval and use, each reference image has its associated Z-plane images are formed in a stack that is sent over the Internet, or Intranet to a local computer storage for quick retrieval when a viewer wants to mimic a focusing up or down to better view a detail in an image. Thus, the resultant images are retrieved and displayed such that a virtual focusing capability is available to the user. The images can be formed with overlapping fields of depth, adjacent fields of depth, or wholly separated fields of depth. |
| US07925065B2 |
Finding blob-like structures using diverging gradient field response
A method for determining a blob-like structure in a target image includes receiving an input target image is received, determining a mean curvature of the input target image, smoothing the mean curvature is smoothed using a scale that determines a size of the blobs to be found, finding a blob-like structure in the input target image as a portion of the input target image where a smoothed curvature is higher than a threshold value, and outputting a result including an indication of the blob-like structure. |
| US07925062B2 |
Image processing apparatus, image processing method, signature registration program, and storage medium
Signature data of a handwritten signature input to a signature authentication device is analyzed to determine whether to register the signature based on the characteristics of the stroke shape of the signature. If the signature registration is denied, a response message for making the signature registerable is displayed according to the way in which the signature is written. At least one of cumulative angle changes in the locus of the signature, fluctuation in the speed at which the signature was written, fluctuation in the size of the characters included in the signature, and fluctuation in the center positions of the characters included in the signature is used as the determination criterion. |
| US07925059B2 |
Method and apparatus for iris biometric systems for use in an entryway
A method and apparatus for designing an iris biometrics system that operates in minimally constrained settings. The image acquisition system has fewer constraints on subjects than traditional methods by extending standoff distance and capture volume. The method receives design parameters and provides derived quantities that are useful in designing an image acquisition system having a specific set of performance requirements. Exemplary scenarios of minimally constrained settings are provided, such as a high volume security checkpoint, an office, an aircraft boarding bridge, a wide corridor, and an automobile. |
| US07925058B2 |
Iris recognition system and method using multifocus image sequence
An iris recognition system includes an eye image input unit calculating the distance between an image obtaining apparatus and a user using a distance sensor. An eye image pretreatment unit calculates a fuzzy entropy for the multifocus eye image sequence input. A feature vector extraction unit multi-divides the multifocus iris image sequence extracted in the eye image pretreatment unit. A recognition unit discriminates the user's authenticity by measuring a dissimilarity between the feature vector extracted from the feature vector extraction unit and a feature vector already registered. A register unit registers the reduced wavelet feature vector extracted from the feature vector extraction unit and the dimension-reducing transform function P in a storage unit. A storage unit stores the dimension-reducing transform function P and the reduced wavelet feature vector. |
| US07925057B2 |
System and method to adjust medical imaging equipment
A system and method for automatically adjusting parameters of an imaging machine are disclosed. The system comprises at least one sensor device to capture sensed characteristic information of a next person to be medically imaged. The system also includes a computer to receive the sensed characteristic information from the at least one sensor device and to generate adjustment data based on the sensed characteristic information. The system further includes a medical imaging machine to receive the adjustment data from the computer and to adjust at least one parameter of the imaging machine in response to the adjustment data. |
| US07925055B2 |
Biometric template similarity based on feature locations
The present invention relates to a method and a system of determining correspondence between location sets. A basic idea of the present invention is to provide a scheme in which correspondence between location sets is determined. A feature location set (X) comprising a number (n+1) of components is transformed into a feature vector that can be used in an HDS. Therefore, a feature density function (ƒjs(x)) is created. A feature vector (XF) for the HDS is chosen to be a sampled version of the feature density function (ƒX,g(x) ), which results in feature vectors of equal and finite dimensions regardless of the number (n+1) of features that are present in the biometric template XT from which the location sets is derived. Thereafter, a distance (d) between two feature location sets (X, Y) is determined. The distance (d) between the sets is chosen to be the Euclidian distance between the corresponding feature density functions. |
| US07925054B2 |
Motion detection apparatus
A motion detection apparatus which extracts a 1-frame differential signal from a video signal, separates the 1-frame differential signal into a vertical low frequency signal having a frequency which is lower than a predetermined frequency with respect to the vertical direction of a frame of the video signal and a vertical high frequency signal having a frequency which is equal to or higher than the predetermined frequency, separates, from the vertical low frequency signal and the vertical high frequency signal, signals having different frequency bands with respect to the horizontal direction of a frame of the video signal, respectively, and combines these separated signals. |
| US07925051B2 |
Method for capturing images comprising a measurement of local motions
A method for capturing a sequence of video images, using an imager including an estimation of the parameters of a model of global motion between successive images. The method may include measurement of local motions on edges of the images, with the estimation of the parameters of the global motion model performed using the result of the measurement of local motions on the edges of the images. |
| US07925049B2 |
Stereo-based visual odometry method and system
A method for estimating pose from a sequence of images, which includes the steps of detecting at least three feature points in both the left image and right image of a first pair of stereo images at a first point in time; matching the at least three feature points in the left image to the at least three feature points in the right image to obtain at least three two-dimensional feature correspondences; calculating the three-dimensional coordinates of the at least three two-dimensional feature correspondences to obtain at least three three-dimensional reference feature points; tracking the at least three feature points in one of the left image and right image of a second pair of stereo images at a second point in time different from the first point in time to obtain at least three two-dimensional reference feature points; and calculating a pose based on the at least three three-dimensional reference feature points and its corresponding two-dimensional reference feature points in the stereo images. The pose is found by minimizing projection residuals of a set of three-dimensional reference feature points in an image plane. |
| US07925046B2 |
Implicit video coding confirmation of automatic address recognition
A method for sorting mail that may include performing an automatic address recognition process on a digitized image of a mail piece and generating a plurality of conditional address recognition results and a plurality of confirmation values each associated with one of the plurality of conditional address recognition results. The method can include sending the digitized image, the plurality of conditional address recognition results and the plurality of confirmation values to a video coding system, and selecting a video coding task corresponding to one or more of the plurality of confirmation values. The method can include comparing a video coding result with each of the plurality of confirmation values and, if one of the plurality of confirmation values matches the video coding result, then selecting a confirmed address recognition result from the plurality of conditional address recognition results, the confirmed address recognition result being associated with the confirmation value matching the video coding result. |
| US07925044B2 |
Detecting online abuse in images
Tools for analyzing images are disclosed. In some cases, the images are analyzed in order to determine whether a particular web site and/or email message is part of an illegitimate online activity. In an aspect, an image analysis process comprises comparing a suspect image with one or more elements of interest (which can include images, words, etc.) by generating fingerprints characterizing the suspect image and the elements of interest, to allow for a quantitative comparison. |
| US07925039B1 |
Cylindrical controller for an electronic device
A cylindrical controller provides a user interface for an electronic device that is easier to use than conventional controls. The cylindrical body contains a number of sensors that detect when the cylindrical body is rotated between the thumb and finger of a user. The sensors determine whether the rotation is in a clockwise or counter clockwise direction. The present invention allows users to remotely control a consumer electronics device by manipulating a cylindrical body with familiar prehensile gestures, i.e., pinching, squeezing, and rolling. |
| US07925035B2 |
Speakerbox
An electro-acoustic communications unit (20) may include an acoustic driver (22) which, when operated, emits acoustic waves in two directions. A hermetically sealed container (24) attached to the acoustic driver may include a gas other than air. The gas may transport acoustic waves generated by the acoustic driver. |
| US07925034B2 |
Method for operating a hearing device as well as a hearing device
In order to switch between different hearing programs to adjust to a momentary acoustic surround situation, a method is provided to operate a hearing device as well as a hearing device. Signals, or parameters of a transfer function, are changed smoothly in order to form a smooth transition from a momentary to a desired value. Thereby, the advantage is obtained to eliminate undesired abrupt switching operation when a hearing program switching is necessary. |
| US07925033B2 |
Electro-acoustic transducer
The present invention provides a stable and excellent electro-acoustic transducer having simple constitution with which a vibration pole does not contact with stator poles by a repulsive force acting between the vibration pole and the stator poles and the vibration pole can be stably positioned in place between the two stator poles. A vibration pole is disposed between two stator poles, and surfaces of the vibration pole and the two stator poles facing to each other have electrostatically same polarity to generate an electrostatic repulsive force as a restorative force acting between the vibration pole and the stator poles, so that the vibration pole is positioned in place and electro-acoustic conversion is performed by the vibration displacement of the vibration pole with respect to the stator poles. Whereby, the vibration pole does not contact substantially with the stator poles and the vibration pole is stably positioned in place. |
| US07925028B2 |
Electronic device having a blower with noise control
An electronic device having a first motor which rotates a rotating body (for example, blades) about a rotation axis and a second motor which vibrates a vibrator including the rotating body in the axial direction is provided. A control IC unit has a first circuit which subjects the rotation to control drive by a first waveform, and a second circuit which subjects the vibration to control drive by a second waveform. Rotation and vibration of a rotating and vibrating unit driven by the first and second motors generates an airflow and output sound by a synthesized output of a first output corresponding to the rotation and a second output corresponding to the vibration. The control IC unit generates a second waveform by using a reversed-phase waveform with respect to the first waveform or the like and suppresses the output sound by control of the first and second waveforms. |
| US07925021B2 |
Efficient handling of messages, data and keys in media access layers for network communications
A messaging system includes a first mailbox storage assigned to receive a message for the first processor and a first lock indicator having a first state to indicate that the first mailbox storage can receive a message and a second state to indicate that the first mailbox storage cannot receive a message. The system also includes a second mailbox storage assigned to receive a message for the second processor and a second lock indicator having a first state to indicate that the second mailbox storage can receive a message and a second state to indicate that the second mailbox storage cannot receive a message. The lock indicators are changed to their second state when a message is placed in their respective mailbox storage and are changes to their first state in response to its contents being read by the respective processor. |
| US07925017B2 |
Information recording device, information playback device, information recording medium, information recording method, information playback method, and program providing medium
An information recording device uses a data storage device such as media having a built-in flash memory. When data is stored in the data storage device, different encryption keys are used for different sectors. Each encryption key is stored in the header of content. By using a single encryption key for a sector consisting of different blocks, the number of stored encryption keys is limited, and the amount of stored key data is reduced. In accordance with the type of encryption processing, for example, the single DES or the triple DES, one or at least two keys are selected for each sector in order to execute encryption or decryption processing on sector data. |
| US07925016B2 |
Method and apparatus for descrambling content
In accordance with one embodiment, a method for securing control words is provided. The method includes receiving scrambled digital content in a descrambler integrated circuit. The method further includes receiving an encrypted control word in the descrambler integrated circuit, decrypting the encrypted control word using a key stored in a register circuit of the descrambler integrated circuit, and descrambling the scrambled digital content in the descrambler integrated circuit using the decrypted control word. |
| US07925002B2 |
Administering multiple target ACD systems
Method and system for administering multiple target systems automatic contact distribution (ACD) systems, where corresponding object types in the various target systems may have different schema. A user of the administering system works in a single schema, and translators permit communication between the administering system and the various target systems. |
| US07925001B2 |
Methods and apparatus for contact center agent selection
A system receives a request for the service. The system selects an agent to deliver the service, based on an evaluation of the agent. In response to the request for service, the system evaluates the service delivered by the agent after the agent has delivered the service, and updates the evaluation of the service of the agent. |
| US07924999B1 |
Using remote processors to generate routing information to terminate calls to a customer premises
A communication system is described that comprises a switching system, an SCP, and a customer premises. The customer premises includes a remote processor and a plurality of terminating devices. When in operation, the switching system receives a call. Because of the type of call, the switching system queries the SCP for routing information on where to route the call, and the SCP queries the remote processor in the customer premises. The remote processor processes the query to determine routing information to route the call to a terminating device in the customer premises. The remote processor generates a code that includes the routing information and transmits the code to the SCP. The SCP processes the code to identify the routing information determined by the remote processor. The SCP then transmits the routing information to the switching system to cause the switching system to route the call to the terminating device. |
| US07924998B2 |
Intelligent handling of message refusal
An apparatus for intelligently responding when a user refuses an incoming message at a telecommunications terminal is disclosed. In the illustrative embodiments, the apparatus comprises a processor that prompts the user to optionally specify (i) one or more acceptable alternative message delivery mechanisms (e.g., email, text chat, etc.), and/or (ii) one or more alternative devices (e.g., pager, PDA, etc.) when a user refuses an incoming message. For example, a user in a noisy environment who refuses a voice telephone call might specify the following as alternative delivery mechanisms and devices: short message service (SMS) on the user's pager, text chat on the same device as the first message, and email on the user's personal digital assistant (PDA). |
| US07924995B2 |
Teleconferencing system with multi-channel imaging
A method is disclosed that breaks the “one line, one location” paradigm of teleconferencing in the prior art. The teleconference bridge in the illustrative embodiment is able to utilize more than one audio channel from each location. By having access to more than one audio channel from a teleconference location's sound field, the bridge is able to create a multi-channel effect during a conference call. When more than one microphone is present in the first sound field, they can be used to create a multi-channel effect in a second or other sound field involved in a conference call that has more than one loudspeaker. With the bridge mimicking the multi-channel imaging in one room with the multi-channel imaging in another, the conference call participants can experience audio depth during a conference call and can experience two-dimensional imaging, depending on the microphone or speaker separation that is present. |
| US07924992B2 |
Method of ensuring call processing for intelligent user
A method of ensuring call processing for an intelligent user, including: upon receiving a call, judging, by a first Service Switching Point (SSP), whether traffic between the first SSP and a Service Control Point (SCP) is abnormal; if the traffic is abnormal, turning off, by the first SSP, intelligent triggers located in itself and related to the call, and performing an ordinary call connection; otherwise, performing an intelligent call connection, and terminating the process. In the embodiments of the present invention, normal communications can be ensured between intelligent users, even if the traffic between the SSP and the SCP is abnormal. In addition, when the SSP detects that the traffic between the SSP and the SCP is abnormal, the SSP may firstly judge whether to continue the call connection, according to relations among intelligent user identities, reasons for abnormality and whether to perform call connection set in advance, instead of blindly performing call connections for all the intelligent users, thereby preventing excessive service load on the SSP. |
| US07924991B2 |
Report data capture via billing module
A system for reporting telecommunications system usage data related to a telecommunications service. The system includes a network controller that captures telecommunications service billing data and reporting data, and populates a base module with the billing data and a local use module with the reporting data. The system also includes a storage system that stores the base module and the appended local use module, and a reporting system that generates billing reports from the base module and various user-selectable reports from the appended local use module. |
| US07924987B2 |
Methods, apparatus and data structures for managing distributed communication systems
Methods and apparatus for authorizing and allocating outdial communication services are disclosed. A disclosed system comprises an application server to initiate an outdial communication service, a gateway to transport the outdial communication service from the application server to an access network via a shared communication facility, and a policy server to selectively authorize the initiated outdial service and, if the outdial service is authorized, to allocate a portion of the shared communication facility to the authorized outdial service. |
| US07924983B2 |
Thermionic emitter designed to control electron beam current profile in two dimensions
An electron emitter assembly for use in an x-ray emitting device or other electron emitter-containing device is disclosed. In one embodiment, an x-ray tube is disclosed, including a vacuum enclosure that houses both an anode having a target surface, and a cathode positioned with respect to the anode. The cathode includes an electron emitter assembly for emitting a beam of electrons during tube operation. The electron emitter assembly comprises a refractory metal foil with a plurality of shaped rung structures for emitting an electron beam that maximizes flux while simultaneously focusing the electron beam in two dimensions. Focusing occurs primarily through an electrical field shaped by the electron emitter assembly and through balancing current density, electrical resistance, and heat loss through thermal conduction to control the regions that emit electrons. Furthermore, the refractory metal foil can be configured with a modified work function for preferential electron emission. |
| US07924977B2 |
Methods, a processor, and a system for improving an accuracy of identification of a substance
Methods, a processor, and a system for improving an accuracy of identification of a substance are described. One of the methods includes determining whether a relative molecular interference function of the substance includes at least one peak. |
| US07924974B2 |
X-ray machine for breast examination in a standing position
An X-ray machine for imaging a female breast has a support with an attached continuously rotatable gantry. An X-ray tube with an oppositely located X-ray detector is mounted on the gantry. A locating means for accommodating a breast is disposed coaxially with a rotation axis of the gantry. The gantry is adapted to be moved relative to the locating means by an advancing means. In order to achieve a high throughput of patients, a locating means having an opening for accommodating a breast is provided relative to both sides of the gantry. The X-ray machine may be incorporated between two separating walls which have cut-out portions for the locating means. |
| US07924972B2 |
Reconstruction of an image of a moving object from volumetric data
In the CT imaging of non-homogeneously moving objects such as the heart or the coronary vessel tree, there is a problem that different parts of the objects are at rest at different points in time. Thus, a gated reconstruction with a globally selected time point does not yield a sharp image of such objects. According to the present invention, a motion of the object is estimated, describing the motion of selected regions of these objects. Then, on the basis of the estimated motion, time points are determined, where these areas have minimal motion. Then, an image is reconstructed, wherein the data from which the respective regions are reconstructed, correspond to the respective time points, where the regions have minimal motion. Due to this, an improved image quality may be provided. |
| US07924971B2 |
Radiographic apparatus
For Respiration Correlated Cone Beam CT scanning, we have observed that improvements in the frame rate are in fact undesirable. We therefore propose a radiographic apparatus comprising a beam of radiation and a detector therefor, adapted to obtain a two dimensional image of the beam after passing through a cyclically varying object to be investigated, a processor adapted to review the images and select images at like points in the cycle, and a control means for the beam of radiation adapted to activate the beam periodically. The control means can activate the beam at a frequency of between 0.5 and 5 Hertz, more preferably between 1 and 3 Hertz, which corresponds (roughly) to a frequency that is between 6 and 10 times the frequency of the cyclical variation. It will assist if the selected point of the cycle is an extremity thereof, as the rate of change in these areas is at a minimum. Thus, slight mismatches between the two cycles will then have only a small effect. Typically, the object will be a patient and the cyclical variation will be the patient's breathing cycle. |
| US07924968B2 |
Imaging system for imaging a region of interest from energy-dependent projection data
The invention relates to an imaging system for imaging a region of interest from energy-dependent projection data, wherein the imaging system comprises a projection data providing unit (1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8) for providing energy-dependent first projection data of the region of interest. The imaging system comprises further an attenuation component image generation unit (12) for generating attenuation component images of the region of interest by generating energy-dependent second projection data using a model in which the projection data depend on attenuation component images. The component image generation unit (12) is adapted for generating the attenuation component images such that deviations of the second projection data from the first projection data are reduced. |
| US07924966B2 |
Symmetry corrected high frequency digital divider
A clock frequency divider for odd numbered divide ratios. The divider clocks two counters in parallel from a reference clock to be divided. One counter is loaded with the divide ratio and the other counter is loaded with the divide ratio except for the least significant bit. The second counter will set a latch when its count has elapsed. The first counter will reset the latch when its count has elapsed and will reload the counters. The latch is used for the divided output, but passes through a retiming circuit. The retiming circuit delays the output edge by one reference clock edge when the least significant bit indicates an odd numbered divide ratio. |
| US07924965B2 |
Clock generator, multimodulus frequency divider and deta-sigma modulater thereof
A clock generator is illustrated. The clock generator mentioned above includes a multimodulus frequency divider and a delta-sigma modulator. The multimodulus frequency divider is archived by switching the phase thereof. The multimodulus frequency divider increases the operating frequency of the clock generator effectively, and has a characteristic with half period resolution for reducing the jitter of an output clock signal when its spectrum is spread. Besides, the delta-sigma modulator increases the accuracy of the triangle modulation and reduces error of quantization by adding a few components therein. Thus, the clock generator could be expanded to a programmable clock generator. |
| US07924961B2 |
Base station synchronization
A method, implemented in a user equipment (UE), of maintaining base station synchronization, comprises receiving a measurement message from a radio network controller (RNC) directing the UE to measure a time difference of arrival (TDOA) between signals transmitted from a first and second base station. The UE receives a transmission from the first and second base stations and measures the TDOA of the transmission from the first and second base station. The UE transmits the measurement of the TDOA of the transmission from the first base station to the first base station, and the measurement of the TDOA of the transmission from the second base station to the second base station. |
| US07924955B2 |
Method and article of estimating of phase and gain mismatch and corresponding method and device for receiving a digital base band signal
The method is for estimating a phase and gain mismatch of a base band digital signal. It comprises: determining (10) weight coefficients depending upon the likelihood of the frequency values of a segment of said base band digital signal; and determining (26) the phase and gain mismatch for the segment using the weight coefficients. |
| US07924954B2 |
Frequency correction
A frequency correction circuit that gives plural frequency offsets to a received radio signal in order to correct a frequency error of the radio signal, demodulates the radio signal, combines an arbitrary number of demodulation signals as combined demodulation signals from among plural demodulation signals, and selects one demodulation signal or combined demodulation signal from among the demodulation signals and the combined demodulation signals. |
| US07924953B2 |
Apparatus and method for detecting time-frequency code in MB-OFDM UWB system
Provided is an apparatus and method for detecting a time-frequency code in an MB-OFDM UWB system. The apparatus includes a controller for providing a band selection signal to the RF receiver and outputting a preamble selection signal at regular symbol periods to calculate a cross correlation value for a predetermined time period more than a beacon frame interval when a time-frequency code search start signal is received; and a cross correlator for storing information on preamble patterns, selecting a preamble stored depending on the preamble selection signal, and calculating a cross correlation value for a digital signal transferred through the RF receiver, wherein the controller determines a time-frequency code using a preamble where a peak occurs as a time-frequency code that is currently in use when a peak signal is inputted based on the calculated cross correlation value, and transmits the determined time-frequency code to the MAC receiver. |
| US07924951B2 |
Methods and systems for digital wireless communication
Methods and systems for digital wireless communication are provided. |
| US07924949B2 |
Advanced multi-sensor processing
Each receiving node (120) of a plurality of receiving nodes (120-1, 120-2 and 120-3) in a wireless network converts a superposition of signals received from a plurality of transmitting nodes (10) to produce soft complex signal information. The soft complex signal information associated with the considered plurality of receiving nodes are collected, and jointly detect signal information transmitted from at least a subset of the plurality of transmitting nodes (10) based on the collected soft complex signal information. The collected soft signal information generally retains phase and amplitude information, and the transmitted signals are preferably detected in a joint detection process based on a complex channel representation and collected soft signal information. |
| US07924946B2 |
Method for recovering a baseband signal from an RF signal
By shifting an RF signal to IQ components of a modulated baseband signal directly, the zero-IF technology and IQ interface are applied in ATSC, NTSC, and PAL systems, and VSB and SSB modulations. The mathematic calculations are based on Fourier transform for shifting the RF signal and for recovering a baseband signal from the modulated baseband signal. |
| US07924944B2 |
Method and system for multi-band direct conversion complimentary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) mobile television tuner
Aspects of a method and system for a multi-band direct conversion complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) mobile television tuner are provided. A single-chip multi-band radio frequency (RF) receiver in a mobile terminal comprising UHF and L-band front-ends receives and amplifies an RF signal utilizing a low noise amplifier (LNA) an LNA integrated into the front-end that corresponds to the type of signal received. A received signal strength indicator (RSSI) value may be determined for the amplified signal within the receiver and may be utilized to adjust a gain of the LNA. The adjustment may be made via on-chip or off-chip processing of the RSSI value. The receiver may directly convert the amplified signal to a baseband frequency signal and generate in-phase and quadrature components. The components of the baseband frequency signal may be filtered and/or amplified via programmable devices within the receiver. Circuitry within the receiver may be controller via an on-chip digital interface. |
| US07924943B2 |
Method and system for optional closed loop mechanism with adaptive modulations for multiple input multiple output (MIMO) wireless local area network (WLAN) system
Aspects of a method and system for an optional closed loop mechanism with adaptive modulations for a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) WLAN system are provided. One aspect of the system may comprise a receiver that may select, for a plurality of spatial streams, a modulation type and/or coding rate. The receiver may communicate a message, via an RF channel, that comprises a plurality of modulation types and/or coding rates. The receiver may configure for receiving subsequent data based on at least one selected modulation type and/or coding rate. Another aspect of the system may comprise a transmitter that may receive a message, via an RF channel, that comprises a specification of, for a plurality of spatial streams, a plurality of modulation types and/or coding rates. The system may configure for transmitting subsequent data based on at least one of the received modulation types and/or coding rates. |
| US07924942B2 |
Power amplifier pre-distortion
A power amplifier pre-distorter is formed by a FIR filter structure which includes an individual look-up table for each filter tap, where each look-up table represents a sampled polynomial in a variable representing signal amplitude, and means for selecting, from each filter tap look-up table, a filter coefficient that depends on the amplitude of a corresponding complex signal value to be multiplied by the filter tap. A training method for such a pre-distorter determines (S1) a first estimate of a first look-up table assigned to a first filter tap, assuming a second look-up table assigned to a second filter tap is set to predetermined table values. Thereafter the method determines (S2) a second estimate of the second look-up table, assuming the first look-up table is set to the determined first estimate. If deemed necessary, the method includes the further steps (a) refining (S3) the first estimate refined, assuming the second look-up table is set to the latest determined second estimate, and (b) refining (S4) the second estimate, assuming the first look-up table is set to the latest determined first estimate. Steps (a) and (b) may be repeated (S5) until convergence is reached. |
| US07924941B2 |
Digital pre-distortion for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signals
A method (300) and a system (100) for processing an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signal. At least one portion of an OFDM symbol (125) that exceeds an amplitude limiting threshold can be identified. The identified portion of the OFDM symbol (125) can be filtered to generate a pre-distortion noise (145). The OFDM symbol (125) and the pre-distortion noise (145) can be combined to generate a pre-distorted OFDM symbol (165). |
| US07924937B2 |
Resonant power converter for radio frequency transmission and method
A resonant power converter for ultra-efficient radio frequency transmission and associated methods. In one exemplary embodiment, the invention is digitally actuated and uses a combination of a noise-shaped encoder, a charging switch, and a high-Q resonator coupled to an output load, typically an antenna or transmission line. Energy is built up in the electric and magnetic fields of the resonator, which, in turn, delivers power to the load with very little wasted energy in the process. No active power amplifier is required. The apparatus can be used in literally any RF signal application (wireless or otherwise), including for example cellular handsets, local- or wide-area network transmitters, or even radio base-stations. |
| US07924933B2 |
Enhanced successive interference cancellation (SIC) receiver for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems
A method includes the steps of: i) listing out all possibilities for first symbol of a two stream signal; ii) determining a second symbol of the two stream signal for each said first symbol listed out, iii) evaluating a metric for each said first symbol and second symbol pair, iv) determining the exact maximum log likelihood ratio for all bits associated with said first symbol using said metrics, v) decoding a codeword-1 using the maximum log likelihood ratios, vi) re-encoding said codeword-1, vii) modulating said re-encoded codeword-1, viii) subtracting said modulated re-encoded codeword-1 from said two stream signal, ix) determining metrics for all possibilities for second symbol in the signal obtained in viii, x) determining the maximum log likelihood ratios for all bits associated with second symbol, and xi) decoding said codeword-2 using the maximum log likelihood ratios for all bits associated with said second symbol. |
| US07924927B1 |
Distributed functionality in a wireless communications network
A wireless network apparatus comprises: a wireless transmitter and receiver operated according to at least one recognized wireless communications protocol; a data storage unit; and a programmed processor. The processor is programmed for establishing direct and indirect links with wireless network nodes, storing wireless connectivity data, transmitting wireless connectivity data to the linked nodes for storage, receiving connectivity data from the linked nodes for storage. The wireless network apparatus may function as a wireless network node apparatus, and wireless network terminus, and/or a wireless portal node. Wireless connectivity data, wireless network terminus data, and/or other data associated with the wireless network may be redundantly stored distributed among the wireless network nodes. The wireless network apparatus may be further adapted for enhancing network connectivity, capacity, security, reliability, and/or functionality of the wireless network. |
| US07924923B2 |
Motion estimation and compensation method and device adaptive to change in illumination
Provided are a motion estimation device and method adaptive to change in illumination. The motion estimation method includes the steps of: generating a current frame pattern block and a reference frame pattern block for a reference frame block; calculating the sum of absolute differences (SAD) for candidate pattern blocks and determining the candidate pattern block corresponding to the SAD satisfying a predetermined condition among the calculated SAD as a motion vector; encoding the current frame block, and adding flag information indicating the addition of a mean pixel value applied to the encoded current frame block and identification information on the encoding mode as header information corresponding to the encoded current frame block. |
| US07924919B2 |
Transcoder, recorder, and transcoding method
In a transcoder that decodes and encodes a motion picture stream, a highly compressed motion picture stream cannot be obtained if the same corresponding frame is referenced for coding purposes in a situation where an intraframe coding mode, in which an unconverted stream is not provided with vector information, is used and in a situation where an interframe predictive coding mode, in which the unconverted stream is provided with vector information, is used. Further, if an additional frame is referenced after searching for the corresponding frame, the circuit scale and power consumption increase. To solve the above problems, the disclosed transcoder comprises a decoder for decoding an input motion picture stream and detecting sub-information indicating whether an intraframe coding scheme or interframe predictive coding scheme is used; and an encoder for changing the frame to be referenced at the time of coding depending on whether the sub-information indicates the use of the intraframe coding scheme or interframe predictive coding scheme. |
| US07924914B2 |
Dynamically configuring a video decoder cache for motion compensation
A video decoder cache used for motion compensation data may be dynamically reconfigured. In some embodiments, it may be reconfigured on picture or frame boundaries and in other embodiments it can be reconfigured on sequence boundaries. The cache may be flushed on each boundary to enable such reconfiguration. |
| US07924913B2 |
Non-realtime data transcoding of multimedia content
Described herein are technologies directed towards non-realtime transcoding (e.g., compressing) a formatted multimedia datastream and doing so without consuming additional storage space or without making the data unavailable during the process. |
| US07924907B2 |
Apparatus and method for spreading/de-spreading data using pair of child orthogonal variable spreading factor codes
there is provided a spreading apparatus using a child orthogonal variable spreading factor (OVSF) code pair, including: a channel condition information receiving unit for receiving channel condition information including a channel condition metric; a switch controlling unit for receiving the channel condition information from the channel condition information receiving unit and transferring data stream according to the received channel station information; a first spreading unit for receiving the data stream from the switching controlling unit, and spreading the data stream using a single OVSF code; and a second spreading unit for receiving the data stream from the switching controlling unit, and spreading the data stream using a child OVSF code pair. |
| US07924906B2 |
Spread-spectrum receiver
An assembly of simultaneously transmitted electrically generated signals, which contains a subset of binary spreading-code sequences that are members of a large set of binary spreading-code sequences available to a particular node of a multi-node communication network. All sequences in the set of spreading-code sequences available to the particular node of the network can be generated by the same configurations of two linear feedback binary shift registers, where feedback taps of the two linear-feedback binary shift registers correspond to primitive polynomials of the same degree over GF(2), the field of two elements. |
| US07924905B2 |
Wireless communication apparatus and method thereof
A wireless communication apparatus in a closed loop communication wherein a channel resource can be shared among users and hence the capacity of the communication system can be increased. In this apparatus, calculating parts (6031 and 6032) calculate a first pre-code (α) and a second pre-code (β), respectively, from CSI fed back from a receiving wireless communication apparatus; an encoding part (6033) includes multipliers (α1, α2), which multiply the first pre-code (α) by a first data and a second data to generate a first encoded data and a third encoded data, respectively, and also includes multipliers (β1, β2) that multiply the second pre-code (β) by the first data and the second data to generate a second encoded data and a fourth encoded data, respectively; spreading parts (6034-1 and 6034-2) spread the first and second encoded data with a first spreading code (c) to generate a first spread data and a second spread data, respectively; spreading parts (6035-1 and 6035-2) spread the third and fourth encoded data with a second spreading code (p) to generate a third spread data and a fourth spread data, respectively; an adding part (6036) adds the first spread data and the third spread data together; and an adding part (6037) adds the second spread data and the fourth spread data together. |
| US07924903B2 |
Method and device for blind dehopping
A method and device are disclosed for real-time characterization of frequency-hopping networks, in which the signal to be characterized is converted into a digital signal and the frequency characteristics of the signal are determined. A frequency hop is sought for synchronization with the start of the transmission. The frequency is tracked and the central frequency Fc of the required transmission channel is sought. A delay is applied to the digitized samples during the tracking phase. The samples corresponding to the signal step are determined on the basis of the delayed samples and the identified central frequency. |
| US07924902B2 |
Highly repetitive laser system having a compact design
The invention relates to a highly repetitive laser system operating according to the reproducible amplifier principle. Said system comprises at least one amplified laser medium, a laser resonator provided with at least one resonator mirror and at least one modulator and a pump source, in particular, a laser diode source, which is used to pump the laser medium. The highly repetitive laser system is compact by virtue of the fact that a pulse extensor, having a highly dispersive effect as a result of the structure or material thereof, is integrated into the laser resonator. |
| US07924889B2 |
Method for transmitting packets in a transmission system
Methods for transmitting first packets encapsulated in second packets in a transmission system in which part of the first packets contain a first timing reference for synchronization of a receiver clock and at least part of said second packets contain a second timing reference for reducing transmission jitter of the second packets at the receiver is described. This method provides, at the transmitter, collecting first packets, determining whether a collected first packet contains a first timing reference and triggering transmission of a second packet encapsulating collected first packets including the first packet containing the first timing reference in response to a positive determination. |
| US07924885B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for circuit emulation multi-channel clock recovery
A method and system for providing multi-channel circuit emulation clock recovery wherein a single instance of the clock recovery logic effects circuit emulation clock recovery for multiple channels. For one embodiment of the invention, fine tuning clocking is effected by comparing an outgoing clock with a recovered clock and switching a clock recovery mechanism, the switching performed in conjunction with a multi-channel context. |
| US07924882B2 |
Packet forwarding apparatus suitable for forwarding extended frame
A packet forwarding apparatus (L2SW) having a frame segmentation function of converting a extended Ethernet frame such as a MAC-in-MAC frame into a plurality of fragment frames when a payload length of the received frame exceeds a standard MTU size communicable in an Ethernet network to be a forwarding destination, by segmenting the received frame into a plurality of data blocks having a size not longer than the MTU size, and a frame assembling function of restoring an original extended frame from a series of fragment frames received from the Ethernet network. |
| US07924881B2 |
Datagram identifier management
Systems and methods ensure that datagrams retain integrity in light of the problems associated with the internetworking protocol's use of datagram identifiers drawn from a first pool of datagram identifiers. The methods involve controlling the use of datagram identifiers to ensure that only certain identifiers are allowable. A second pool of datagram identifiers is created that is different from the first pool. A datagram identifier is drawn from the second pool and assigned to a datagram in a manner that the datagram identifier is controlled from being reused during the lifetime of the datagram. In alternative embodiments the number of available datagram identifiers is either increased through optional header fields, or reduced through tracking allowed datagram identifiers. A first host notifies a second host of an allowed identifier. The second host uses the allowed identifier as a datagram identifier. |
| US07924880B2 |
Method and system for establishing hierarchical network with provider backbone bridges
A method for establishing a hierarchical network with Backbone Provider Bridges includes: dividing the network into a plurality of layers, and partitioning each layer into at least one domain; each domain assigning a service tag for itself; a local domain sending a mapping request including a user type ID to a further domain in the same layer; the further domain in the same layer returning a service tag corresponding to the user type ID to the local domain; the local domain establishing and saving a mapping relationship; and edge devices of each domain learning MAC addresses. Further, a system and device having the same are also provided in the disclosure. |
| US07924876B2 |
Time slicing and statistical multiplexing in a digital wireless network
In accordance with an aspect of the invention, flexible burst boundaries, within an allowable range, allow statistical multiplexing to be performed in conjunction with time slicing in a digital broadcast network. The signalling of the delta-t is performed such that data of the service is not missed. Similar to deterministic multiplexing, aspects of the invention split the multiplex into several time-cycles and allocate, for each service, a time slot (data burst) from the total time-cycle according to the service's average bit rate. In accordance with aspects of the invention, however, the boundaries of each data burst are allowed to grow or shrink by a limited amount. |
| US07924869B2 |
Time-division-based channel collision collaboration in a dynamic frequency hopping wireless regional area network (WRAN)
A method of and system for time-division-based channel collision collaboration in a wireless communication system including at least two Wireless Regional Area Networks (WRANs) with overlapping service areas that employ dynamic frequency hopping is provided. The method includes performing, by at least one Consumer Premise Equipment (CPE) located in an overlapping portion of service areas of at least two WRANs, spectrum sensing and feeding idle channel information back to respective Base Stations (BSs) of the at least two WRANs, broadcasting, by each of the at least two WRANs, a pre-occupation announcement message for a qualified idle channel, and determining, by a WRAN with the highest priority of the at least two WRANs, a time resource allocation for WRANs in a channel collision state of the at least two WRANs. The method addresses problems, such as a large delay and impaired wireless access due to an absence of an idle channel for adjacent WRANs, may be avoided, while the WRANs may maintain their QoSs. Therefore, transmission power of a WRAN during non-operation period may be conserved. |
| US07924868B1 |
Internet protocol (IP) router residing in a processor chipset
A novel network architecture that integrates the functions of an Internet protocol (IP) router into a network processing unit (NPU) that resides in a host computer's chipset such that the host computer's resources are perceived as separate network appliances. The NPU appears logically separate from the host computer even though, in one embodiment, it is sharing the same chip. |
| US07924858B2 |
Use of a data engine within a data processing apparatus
A data processing apparatus and method of operation of such a data processing apparatus are disclosed. The data processing apparatus has a main processing unit operable to perform a plurality of data processing tasks, and a data engine for performing a number of those tasks on behalf of the main processing unit. At least one shared resource is allocatable to the data engine by the main processing unit for use by the data engine when performing data processing tasks on behalf of the main processing unit. The data engine comprises a data engine core for performing the tasks, and a data engine subsystem configurable by the main processing unit and arranged to manage communication between the data engine core and an allocated shared resource. The data engine core comprises a resource manager unit for acting as a master device with respect to the data engine subsystem in order to manage use of the allocated shared resource. It has been found that such an approach provides a particularly efficient implementation of a data engine within a data processing apparatus, which reduces the need for re-writing of existing code to enable it to be executed on such a data processing apparatus. |
| US07924857B2 |
Methods and apparatus for reorganizing cells buffered after transmission
A method and apparatus of reorganizing cells received over data communication lines at a receive node is provided. The cells have an initial order identified by monotonically increasing sequence identifiers. The receive node has buffers associated with respective ones of the communication lines. Each of the buffers has an output position. A cell having a smallest sequence identifier is detected from one or more cells at the output positions of the buffers. It is determined if the smallest sequence identifier is sequentially consecutive to a specified sequence identifier. If the smallest sequence identifier is sequentially consecutive to the specified sequence identifier, the cell having the smallest sequence identifier is dequeued from an output position of one of the buffers and the specified sequence identifier is redefined as the smallest sequence identifier. |
| US07924856B2 |
Tree-shaped broadcasting system, packet transmitting method, node device, and computer-readable medium
A lost packet in a plurality of packets broadcasted from a broadcasting apparatus is detected. Packet complement request information indicative of a packet complement request for complementing the lost packet is transmitted to a device in a high hierarchical level, and a dummy packet for holding transmission of the packet complement request information for a predetermined hold time is transmitted in place of the lost packet to a node device connected in a low hierarchical level. |
| US07924853B1 |
Method of maintaining a communication network
A method is provided for maintaining a communication network including a plurality of call processors, a plurality of packet gateways, and a plurality of trunk groups connected to each packet gateway. Queries are transferred to at least one call processor of the plurality of call processors, and responses are received from the one call processor. The responses are processed to associate the one call processor with a packet gateway and to associate the packet gateway with trunk groups connected to the packet gateway. The association of the packet gateway with the trunk groups is displayed, and a user selects one of the trunk groups. Then an instruction is transferred to the one call processor to seize and release the user-selected one of the trunk groups. |
| US07924850B2 |
System and method for managing and controlling communications performed by a computer terminal connected to a network
The present invention provides a system which maintains a function of monitoring and controlling a network regardless of an increase of data to be downloaded by a computer whose access to the network is restricted. The system includes: a first interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from the network; a second interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from the network; a determination component for determining whether or not network data received by the first interface is from a first terminal device; a first creation component for creating, in response to a determination made by the determination component that the network data is transmitted from the first terminal device, information causing a transmission destination address of the network data to be changed to an address of the second interface in a table of the first terminal device; a first transmission component for transmitting the information causing the transmission destination address to be changed to the address of the second interface; and a restriction component for restricting a bandwidth of the network data passing through the second interface to a predetermined value. |
| US07924836B2 |
Break before make forwarding information base (FIB) population for multicast
A method of installing forwarding state in a link state protocol controlled network node having a topology database representing a known topology of the network, and at least two ports for communication with corresponding peers of the network node. A unicast path is computed from the node to a second node in the network, using the topology database, and unicast forwarding state associated with the computed unicast path installed in a filtering database (FDB) of the node. Multicast forwarding state is removed for multicast trees originating at the second node if an unsafe condition is detected. Subsequently, a “safe” indication signal is advertised to each of the peers of the network node. The “safe” indication signal comprises a digest of the topology database. A multicast path is then computed from the network node to at least one destination node of a multicast tree originating at the second node. Finally, multicast forwarding state associated with the computed multicast path is installed in the filtering database (FDB) of the network node, when predetermined safe condition is satisfied. |
| US07924835B2 |
Method and device for providing multicast services to multiple customers
A method of multicast transmission in a communication network by using IGMP protocol, to a plurality of IGMP-equipped hosts serving end customers of the network, the method comprises:—using IGMP protocol to request receipt of information along a multicast channel, by a particular end customer;—adding the end customer to a multicast group including, upon adding said particular end customer, at least one of the end customers;—delivering information along the multicast channel to the end customers belonging to the multicast group, and in response to the request, ensuring for the particular end customer access to information delivered along the multicast channel by transmitting to that end customer access data, which includes: churning information indicative of a multicast churning key and/or service information, and/or a combination thereof. |
| US07924834B2 |
Multiplexing apparatus, multiplexing method, program, and recording medium
A multiplexing apparatus for multiplexing audio data into transport stream (TS) packets includes a first encoding section encoding the audio data by a first encoding method; a second encoding section encoding the audio data by a second encoding method, which is a variable-length encoding method and which differs from the first encoding method, for attaching a timing value indicating a timing used when audio data is decoded in units of predetermined audio data; a packetization section packetizing the audio data encoded by the first encoding section and the audio data encoded by the second encoding section into TS packets and for attaching the same ID to a plurality of packetized TS packets; a determination section determining a TS packet to be multiplexed from among the plurality of TS packets packetized by the packetization section; and a multiplexing section multiplexing the TS packet determined by the determination section. |
| US07924830B2 |
System and method to route data in an anycast environment
A method of routing data in an anycast environment includes sending an instruction from an intelligent route reflector device to an anycast router associated with an anycast network. The instruction signals the anycast router to statically pin up to an initial service node corresponding to a network service. The initial service node is associated with an anycast address. The method includes identifying prefixes of Internet protocol (IP) addresses of customer endpoints that communicate with the anycast network via the anycast router, and sending a route advertisement to a service node router associated with the initial service node. The route advertisement instructs the service node router to send an advertisement to the anycast network announcing that the service node router is a next best hop for data traffic related to the network service and bound for a customer endpoint having an IP address that includes any of the identified prefixes. |
| US07924826B1 |
Method and apparatus for device pinout mapping
A “pinout mode” control capability incorporated into an integrated circuit device controls an internal mapping function, with the effect that the device pinout is adjusted by the setting of the pinout mode. An integrated circuit device includes a data interface with plural physical ports each having a physical port identifier and a mapper for mapping the physical port identifiers to logical port identifiers based on a selected mode setting, each mode setting defining a different port mapping. A data circuit is coupled to the data interface, the data circuit processing data sent to and received from the data interface based on the logical port identifiers. |
| US07924823B2 |
IP telephony network using a configuration map for organizing sites in a tree-like hierarchy
A system and method for managing an IP telephony network that uses a configuration map for organizing sites in a tree-like hierarchy. The system is capable of managing the addition, removal and movement of IP telephony elements within an IP telephony network and locating services and IP telephony elements within the IP telephony network in an efficient manner. |
| US07924822B2 |
Method and apparatus for enhanced internet telephony
A method and apparatus for enhanced Internet telephony ensures that communication between a source and destination is not interrupted by common network address translation. According to one aspect of the invention, communication may continue through a router that employs network address translation. |
| US07924816B2 |
System and method for servicing calls originating via the Internet
A method for providing call services in a telecommunications system includes receiving a call request from a call origination station via the Internet. The call request may involve an advanced call service. The method may also include validating the call request and initiating a communications link between the call origination station and a telephony server via the Internet when the call request is validated. The method may further include initiating a telephony link between the telephony server and a call termination station when the call request is validated. |
| US07924815B2 |
Upstream data rate estimation
In one embodiment, a VoIP device operable to estimate an upstream data rate for a network device is provided. The VoIP device includes a transceiver operable to transmit VoIP packets to and receive VoIP packets from the network device; and a logic engine configured to initiate a series of simulated VoIP streams through the network device to a VoIP call destination, the logic engine being further configured to determine when at least one of the simulated VoIP streams in the series is unsuccessful, the logic engine being further configured to estimate the upstream data rate for the network device based upon a data rate for those simulated VoIP streams preceding the unsuccessful simulated VoIP stream. |
| US07924813B1 |
System, device, and method for providing data to a call participant
Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a method comprising a plurality of activities, comprising: via a CPE telephony device simultaneously connectable to a POTS connection and to a connection to a data network: facilitating, via the POTS connection, a PSTN call, and facilitating, via the data network connection, a display of data to a call participant of the PSTN call, the data provided the data network. |
| US07924809B2 |
Techniques to provide a channel quality indicator
In a wireless network, simultaneous support of distributed and contiguous sub-carrier allocation may be accomplished in the same sub-frame or time zone. Techniques are described herein that can be used to allocate distributed and/or contiguous basic (physical) resource blocks to users by specifying a codebook index and parent node. Techniques are described herein that can be used to flexibly set a number of sub-channels over which a subscriber station indicates a channel quality indicator to a base station. Sub-channels may be represented as nodes and may be grouped to include a parent node and child nodes. By specifying a code book to use and a parent node, the channel quality indicator of the parent and children nodes can be indicated. |
| US07924807B2 |
System and method for synchronizing communicating entities in a decentralized network
A method for synchronizing communicating entities in a decentralized network. The method begins with a recipient entity receiving data comprising a first timestamp and a first distance. The first timestamp being the time the first data was broadcast; the first distance being a distance from the sender's synchronization time. Next the recipient entity receives data comprising a second timestamp and a second distance. The second timestamp being the time the second data was broadcast; the second distance being a distance from the sender's synchronization time. Based on the first and second timestamps and distances, the recipient entity calculates a new synchronization time. Next, the recipient entity broadcasts to at least one entity in the decentralized network data comprising a third timestamp and a third distance. The third timestamp being the time the third data was broadcast; the third distance being a distance from the recipient entity's synchronization time. |