| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08103908B2 |
Method and system for recovery of a computing environment during pre-boot and runtime phases
A method and system for recovery of a computing environment includes monitoring during a pre-boot phase and a runtime phase of a computing device for selection of a hot key sequence by a user and performing a recovery action in response to the selection of the hot key sequence by the user. The recovery action may be any one of a number of predetermined and/or selectable actions such as restoring system defaults, migrating memory, displaying a menu of options, setting various software flags, restarting or rebooting the computing device, and/or the like. |
| US08103906B1 |
System and method for providing total real-time redundancy for a plurality of client-server systems
An automated and scalable system for total real-time redundancy of a plurality of client-server systems, wherein, data is replicated through a network connection and operationally located on a virtual machine that substitutes for a failed client-server system, wherein the virtual machine is activated and installed on the cloud computing environment. Monitoring applications are installed on both the client-server systems and the cloud computing environment. System components are identified, a network connection is initiated, a heartbeat is established, data replication is automated, system failure is detected, failover is initiated, and subsequent client-server restoration is automated. |
| US08103904B2 |
Read-other protocol for maintaining parity coherency in a write-back distributed redundancy data storage system
Data storage reliability is maintained in a write-back distributed data storage system including multiple nodes. Each node comprises a processor and an array of failure independent data storage devices. Information is stored as a set of stripes, each stripe including a collection of at least a data strip and associated parity strips, the stripes distributed across a primary data node and multiple corresponding parity nodes. A read-other parity update protocol maintains parity coherency. The primary data node for each data strip drives parity coherency with the corresponding parity nodes, independently of other data nodes, in keeping relevant parity strips for the primary data node coherent. A parity value is determined based on data other than a difference between new data and existing data. A new parity value is based on new data and dependent data, wherein with respect to one data value, dependent data comprises other data encoded in a corresponding parity value. |
| US08103900B2 |
Implementing enhanced memory reliability using memory scrub operations
A method and circuit for implementing enhanced memory reliability using memory scrub operations to determine a frequency of intermittent correctable errors, and a design structure on which the subject circuit resides are provided. A memory scrub for intermittent performs at least two reads before moving to a next memory scrub address. A number of intermittent errors is tracked where an intermittent error is identified, responsive to identifying one failing read and one passing read of the at least two reads. |
| US08103898B2 |
Explicit skew interface for mitigating crosstalk and simultaneous switching noise
Methods and apparatus are disclosed, such as those involving an inter-chip interface configured to receive and process electronic data. One such interface includes a receiver circuit that includes a clock tree configured to receive a clock signal at a clock tree input. The clock tree distributes a plurality of clock signals delayed from the clock signal such that one or more of the clock signals have a delay different from the delays of the other clock signals. The receiver circuit further includes a plurality of data input latches configured to receive a plurality of data elements over two or more different points in time. This configuration at least partially reduces crosstalk and simultaneous switching output noise. |
| US08103893B2 |
Thermal management of devices by suspension of offline diagnostic activities
The present invention provides both a peripheral device that regulates its own temperature by adjusting its power consumption, and a method to accomplish the same. The method generally includes monitoring the temperature of the mass storage device and reducing power consumption when the temperature exceeds a certain threshold. |
| US08103892B2 |
Power management apparatus with buck boost converter module
A power management apparatus includes a first electrical lead and a second electrical lead. The first electrical lead routes electrical current at a first electrical lead electrical potential level and the second electrical lead route electrical current at a second current port electrical potential level. The power management apparatus further includes a first electrical parameter sensor configured to measure a first electrical lead electrical parameter and a second electrical parameter sensor configured to measure a second electrical lead electrical parameter. The power management apparatus further comprises a buck boost converter electrically coupled to both the first electrical lead and the second electrical lead. The buck boost converter is configured to convert electrical current between the first electrical lead electric potential level and the second electrical lead electric potential level at a controlled potential conversion level. The power management apparatus further comprises a controller is configured to receive operating current from either one of the first electrical lead and the second electrical lead. The controller is configured to monitor the first electrical parameter sensor and the second electrical parameter sensor and being configured to output control signals to the buck boost converter. |
| US08103889B2 |
Reducing power consumption of a microprocessor
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for reducing the power consumption of a microprocessor. One or more signal transitions in an instruction set of a microprocessor are profiled. A probability of occurrence is assigned to each instruction in the instruction set. A binary operation code is assigned to each instruction, based on the probability of occurrence for the instruction. The instructions having the highest probability of occurrence are assigned operation codes that require fewer signal transitions. As a result, the power consumption of the microprocessor is reduced. |
| US08103888B2 |
Method and apparatus for power savings in a multi-threaded processor using a symbol gated with a clock signal
Methods and apparatuses are presented that allow power savings on a processor executing a plurality of threads on a plurality of cores. The method may include providing a first timing signal to a processor, determining the power requirements of the processor, loading a symbol into a shift register, where the symbol may be associated with the power requirements of the processor, providing a second timing signal to the processor, where the second timing signal may include a gated representation of the first timing signal and the symbol. |
| US08103886B2 |
Dedicated power supply apparatus, terminal, power supply system, and power supply method
Disclosed is an electronic device including a rechargeable battery, a connector, a controller, an operation unit, a storage unit, and a playback unit. The connector includes a power supply pin used for supplying power from an external device and for detecting whether the connector being connected to the external device; a ground pin; and two signal pins used for transmitting data between the electronic device and the external device. The controller controls charging of the rechargeable battery. The controller is configured to judge whether the external device is a predetermined power supply apparatus based on a state of the two signal pins when the external device is connected to the electronic device via the connector. The controller may also be configured to control communication with the external device via the connector so that the rechargeable battery is charged by a first current from the external device. |
| US08103884B2 |
Managing power consumption of a computer
Methods and products for managing power consumption of a computer and computers for which power consumption is managed. The computer includes the computer including a computer processor and embodiments of the present invention include providing, by an in-band power manger to an out-of-band power manager, a proposed performance state (‘p-state’) for the computer processor; determining, by the out-of-band power manager, in dependence upon a power setpoint and currently-measured operating metrics of the computer processor, whether to approve the proposed p-state; and if the out-of-band power manager approves the proposed p-state, setting operating parameters of the computer processor according to the approved p-state. |
| US08103883B2 |
Method and apparatus for enforcing use of danbury key management services for software applied full volume encryption
A method, system, and computer-readable storage medium containing instructions for controlling access to data stored on a plurality of storage devices associated with a first platform. The method includes authenticating a user to access the first platform, wherein the first platform includes first and second storage devices, chipset encryption hardware, and a memory. Data stored on the storage devices are encrypted, with first data on the first storage device being encrypted by the chipset encryption hardware and second data stored on the second storage device being encrypted by another encryption mechanism. The data are decrypted and the user is allowed to access the first data and the second data. |
| US08103881B2 |
System, method and apparatus for electronic ticketing
The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for securely granting access to an event. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus, such as an electronic card, ticket or information carrier, contains biometric data about a user. When the “ticket” is purchased or authenticated, event access information is stored on the electronic card or ticket by an entity authorized by the event provider. The user is allowed access to the event when the biometric data stored on the electronic card or ticket matches the user's biometric data and the event access information is validated. The user's biometric data is authenticated via a biometric sensor on the electronic card or ticket. The user's biometric data can also be authenticated by the entity granting access to the event. |
| US08103877B2 |
Content identification and electronic tickets, coupons and credits
The present disclosure describes, e.g., electronic tickets, coupons and credits. In some cases these electronic objects are represented by imagery or audio. One claim recites a handheld apparatus including: an input for receiving an electronic coupon or credit, the electronic coupon or credit comprising audio; electronic memory for storing a received electronic coupon or credit; an audio output for outputting the received electronic coupon or credit, in which the electronic coupon or credit is intended to be applied to a purchase or transaction; and an electronic processor programmed for controlling output of the received electronic coupon or credit. Of course, other claims and combinations are provided too. |
| US08103875B1 |
Detecting email fraud through fingerprinting
Methods, systems, and products for detecting phishing attempts through fingerprinting are provided. In an embodiment, there is a computer program product that comprises a computer-readable medium and computer program instructions encoded on the medium for deterring fraud perpetrated through an incoming electronic message containing an address for responding to the incoming electronic message. The instructions are for extracting the address from the incoming electronic message and generating a fingerprint based on the extracted address. It is then determined whether the generated fingerprint matches a plurality of stored legitimate fingerprints. When there is a lack of a match, an action is taken to prevent use of the address. |
| US08103874B2 |
Object delivery authentication
Provided is a method and system for authenticating object delivery including the steps of receiving by an object receiver an object delivery information package from an object deliverer over a call network during a communication between the object receiver and the object deliverer, wherein the object delivery information package comprises object information and object deliverer identity information, receiving by the object receiver an object from the object deliverer, and authenticating the receipt of the object by the object receiver using the object information and object deliverer identity information. |
| US08103870B2 |
Hive-based peer-to-peer network
A collaborative data transferring process can combine segments from all known servers and peer-to-peer (P2P) sources simultaneously, regardless of their native protocols. The process uses variable data block size that can be dynamically selected according to sizes provided by sources, e.g., according to the protocol of the source, and can generate hash values or validation codes on the fly so that compliance with validation techniques (if any) of other protocols is not required. The process may be classified as a P2P protocol, although it also contains centralized elements. Machine language implementations and low syntax overhead allow file exchanges over a homogeneous network with high throughput and low bandwidth consumption. |
| US08103868B2 |
Sender identification system and method
A database is queried based upon data contained in a message to obtain sender identification information, at least part of which is not contained in the message as it was sent. The sender identification information is presented to a recipient, which can send a signal accepting or rejecting the message based upon the sender identification information. If an accept signal is entered, the message can be forwarded to the recipient and/or rendered to the recipient. |
| US08103867B2 |
Method and system for obtaining digital signatures
A digital signature system includes a database holding access control rules that identify documents authorized users are allowed to have electronically signed and a signing system capable of receiving signature requests from a plurality of authorized users, each signature request including a document to be signed, wherein the signing system parses the document to be signed and compares information obtained thereby to the access control rules stored in the database to determine whether the authorized user is authorized to have the document signed, and wherein if it is determined that the authorized user is authorized to have the document signed, the signing system signs the document using authentication information unique to the signing system. |
| US08103860B2 |
Optional function multi-function instruction
A method, system and program product for executing a multi-function instruction in a computer system by specifying, via the multi-function instruction, either a capability query or execution of a selected function of one or more optional functions, wherein the selected function is an installed optional function, wherein the capability query determines which optional functions of the one or more optional functions are installed on the computer system. |
| US08103857B2 |
Microprocessor control apparatus as well as method and program for the same
There is provided with a microprocessor control apparatus for controlling an operating speed of a microprocessor which executes a program including instruction codes, including: a state observing unit observing an execution state of the program at predetermined timings before execution of a deadline instruction code; prediction data of a remaining calculation amount required before execution of the deadline instruction code completes for each of predefined execution states; a predicted calculation amount acquiring unit acquiring a remaining calculation amount corresponding to an observed execution state as a remaining predicted calculation amount; a remaining time calculating unit calculating a remaining time until the deadline of the deadline instruction code; an operating speed calculating unit calculating a minimum operation speed of the microprocessor that is required to process the remaining predicted calculation amount within the remaining time; and a controlling unit controlling the microprocessor to operate at the minimum operating speed or higher. |
| US08103854B1 |
Methods and apparatus for independent processor node operations in a SIMD array processor
A control processor is used for fetching and distributing single instruction multiple data (SIMD) instructions to a plurality of processing elements (PEs). One of the SIMD instructions is a thread start (Tstart) instruction, which causes the control processor to pause its instruction fetching. A local PE instruction memory (PE Imem) is associated with each PE and contains local PE instructions for execution on the local PE. Local PE Imem fetch, decode, and execute logic are associated with each PE. Instruction path selection logic in each PE is used to select between control processor distributed instructions and local PE instructions fetched from the local PE Imem. Each PE is also initialized to receive control processor distributed instructions. In addition, local hold generation logic is associated with each PE. A PE receiving a Tstart instruction causes the instruction path selection logic to switch to fetch local PE Imem instructions. |
| US08103853B2 |
Intelligent fabric system on a chip
A chip having an intelligent fabric may include a soft application processor, a reconfigurable hardware intelligent processor, a partitioned memory storage, and an interface to an external reconfigurable communication processor. The reconfigurable hardware intelligent processor may be configured to implement a distributed reconfigurable processor, and to provide cognitive control for at least one of allocation, reallocation, and performance monitoring. |
| US08103851B2 |
Dynamic address translation with translation table entry format control for indentifying format of the translation table entry
What is provided is an enhanced dynamic address translation facility. In one embodiment, a virtual address to be translated and an initial origin address of a translation table of the hierarchy of translation tables are obtained. An index portion of the virtual address is used to reference an entry in the translation table. If a format control field contained in the translation table entry is enabled, the table entry contains a frame address of a large block of data of at least 1M byte in size. The frame address is then combined with an offset portion of the virtual address to form the translated address of a small 4K byte block of data in main storage or memory. |
| US08103849B2 |
Reducing memory usage of kernel memory management structures
One aspect of the present invention relates to techniques utilized within an operating system or a similar virtualization environment for reducing overhead of memory management data structures. Memory management data structures are used by operating systems to track the location of hardware pages in physical memory, consuming around 1% of a computer system's physical memory. However, these data structures may be classified as redundant when multiple data structures are used to track the same virtual memory pages stored within physical memory. One embodiment discloses an operation that identifies redundant data structures tracking frames of a single large page that are stored contiguously in the physical memory. Once identified, the redundant data structures may be removed from physical memory, freeing the physical memory for other uses. A further embodiment enables recreation of the removed data structures in physical memory if later accessed within the operating system. |
| US08103847B2 |
Storage virtual containers
A controller of a Solid State Device (SSD) defines a mapping from memory devices, such as flash packages, that make up the SSD to one or more storage virtual containers. The storage virtual containers are exposed to an operating system by the controller through an interface. The operating system may then make operation requests to the one or more storage virtual containers, and the controller may use the mapping to fulfill the operation requests from the corresponding flash packages. The storage virtual containers are mapped to the flash packages to take advantage of the parallelism of the flash packages in the SSD so that the controller may fulfill operation requests received from the operating system in parallel. |
| US08103846B2 |
Memory management unit, image forming apparatus, memory management method, and computer program
A memory management unit for an information processing system includes a controller and a non-volatile memory. The controller controls data writing process. The non-volatile memory, used for storing non-rewritable and rewritable data, is partitioned into a read-only partition to store the non-rewritable data, and a rewritable partition to store the rewritable data including apparatus-specific data including access-restricted data required for activating the information processing system. The access-restricted data is prohibited from being written during normal usage but writable at specific times. The non-rewritable data, stored in the read-only partition, is protected from an abrupt power shutdown occurring when a data writing process is conducted to the rewritable data. The controller stores the access-restricted data to the read-only partition by changing an attribute of the read-only partition of the non-volatile memory from a read-only attribute to a rewritable attribute. |
| US08103845B2 |
Data storage device using two types of storage medium
A data storage device includes two data storage media: both a hard disk and a non-volatile solid state memory device, such as a flash memory. Data received by the data storage device for storage is stored both in the hard disk and the flash memory. Since the data storage is duplicated, if a problem arises with retrieving data from one of the hard disk, the data can be retrieved from the flash memory. |
| US08103844B2 |
Secure direct platter access
Bulk data transfers by directly accessing a persistent and secured area on the data storage device, e.g., a disk drive having a magnetic storage medium, without relying on the system operating system to execute its read/write operations. For a disk drive, the Protected Area Run Time Interface Extension (PARTIES) technology is applied to create and organize a secured sub-area within a secured storage area. The secured sub-area is a data buffer to and from which large data file transfers can be made with data authenticity and confidentiality. Since this new secured sub-area is not organized and protected by the operating system, it is inherently protected from attack by viruses or Trojan horse software whose effectiveness depends on their ability to maliciously direct the operating system. In addition, the read/write operations bypass command payload limits while reducing data and command validation costs. |
| US08103836B2 |
Snoop filtering system in a multiprocessor system
A system and method for supporting cache coherency in a computing environment having multiple processing units, each unit having an associated cache memory system operatively coupled therewith. The system includes a plurality of interconnected snoop filter units, each snoop filter unit corresponding to and in communication with a respective processing unit, with each snoop filter unit comprising a plurality of devices for receiving asynchronous snoop requests from respective memory writing sources in the computing environment; and a point-to-point interconnect comprising communication links for directly connecting memory writing sources to corresponding receiving devices; and, a plurality of parallel operating filter devices coupled in one-to-one correspondence with each receiving device for processing snoop requests received thereat and one of forwarding requests or preventing forwarding of requests to its associated processing unit. Each of the plurality of parallel operating filter devices comprises parallel operating sub-filter elements, each simultaneously receiving an identical snoop request and implementing one or more different snoop filter algorithms for determining those snoop requests for data that are determined not cached locally at the associated processing unit and preventing forwarding of those requests to the processor unit. In this manner, a number of snoop requests forwarded to a processing unit is reduced thereby increasing performance of the computing environment. |
| US08103833B2 |
Cache memory and a method for servicing access requests
A cache memory that includes: (i) an arbitrator, connected to multiple access generator, the arbitrator is adapted to receive different types of access requests from the multiple access generators and to select a single access request per arbitration cycle; (ii) a sequence of pipeline stages, the sequence comprises an input pipeline stage that is connected to the arbiter; and (iii) multiple cache resources, connected to the sequence of pipeline stages; wherein each cache resource can be read only by a small portion of the sequence of pipeline stages and can be written to only by a small portion of the sequence of pipeline stages. |
| US08103832B2 |
Method and apparatus of prefetching streams of varying prefetch depth
Method and apparatus of prefetching streams of varying prefetch depth dynamically changes the depth of prefetching so that the number of multiple streams as well as the hit rate of a single stream are optimized. The method and apparatus in one aspect monitor a plurality of load requests from a processing unit for data in a prefetch buffer, determine an access pattern associated with the plurality of load requests and adjust a prefetch depth according to the access pattern. |
| US08103831B2 |
Efficient method and apparatus for employing a micro-op cache in a processor
Methods and apparatus for using micro-op caches in processors are disclosed. A tag match for an instruction pointer retrieves a set of micro-op cache line access tuples having matching tags. The set is stored in a match queue. Line access tuples from the match queue are used to access cache lines in a micro-op cache data array to supply a micro-op queue. On a micro-op cache miss, a macroinstruction translation engine (MITE) decodes macroinstructions to supply the micro-op queue. Instruction pointers are stored in a miss queue for fetching macroinstructions from the MITE. The MITE may be disabled to conserve power when the miss queue is empty-likewise for the micro-op cache data array when the match queue is empty. Synchronization flags in the last micro-op from the micro-op cache on a subsequent micro-op cache miss indicate where micro-ops from the MITE merge with micro-ops from the micro-op cache. |
| US08103823B2 |
Host initiated background formatting of optical medium
A method and a host processing device are provided for background formatting, or de-icing, an optical medium with no de-icing assistance from an optical drive upon which the optical medium is mounted. In a foreground mode, an optical medium may be initially formatted, volume structures may be recorded on the optical medium, file system information may be written thereto, and quick grow formatting may be performed to make the optical medium writable, at least sequentially. Under initiation and control of a file system, executing on a host processing device, the optical medium may be formatted, or de-iced, in a background mode with no assistance from an optical drive, upon which the optical medium is mounted. Under control of the file system, blocked input or output activity, may be allowed to access the optical medium upon pausing the formatting, or de-icing. |
| US08103822B2 |
Method and apparatus for implementing a caching policy for non-volatile memory
The present disclosure relates to methods, devices and computer-readable medium for implementing a caching policy and/or a cache flushing policy in a peripheral non-volatile storage device operatively coupled to a host device. In some embodiments, data is stored to a cache area of a non-volatile memory within the peripheral non-volatile storage device in accordance with a historical rate at which other data was received by the peripheral storage device from the host device and/or a historical average time interval between successive host write requests received and/or an assessed rate at which data is required to be written to the non-volatile memory and/or a detecting by the peripheral non-volatile memory device that the host has read the storage ready/busy flag. In some embodiments, data is copied from a cache storage area of the non-volatile memory to a main storage area in accordance with the historical rate and/or the historical average time interval. |
| US08103819B2 |
Information storage device and stored data processing method
An information storage device includes one or more semiconductor memories storing management data accompanying content data and being configured to erase data in units of one block, and a controller setting up, in the one or more semiconductor memories, a working area to temporarily store the management data and a storage area to retain all or part of the management data stored in the working area, writing the management data to the working area while monitoring the free space of the working area, moving the management data stored in the working area to the storage area when the free space of the working area falls below a prescribed value, and erasing the management data stored in the working area after the movement of the management data to the storage area. |
| US08103817B2 |
Systems for accessing memory card and methods for accessing memory card by a control unit
A system for accessing a memory card is provided. The system includes a control unit having a control pin and a processor. The processor senses a card-insertion signal from a socket via the control pin for indicating whether the memory card has been inserted into the socket. The processor provides a power control signal via the control pin to supply an operating voltage to the memory card when the sensed card-insertion signal indicates that the memory card has been inserted into the socket. The processor detects whether a write protection function of the memory card is present via the control pin. |
| US08103808B2 |
Multimedia KVM system
Multimedia KVM systems are provided. A multimedia KVM system comprises a KVM switch and a local console coupled to the KVM switch. The KVM switch comprises a plurality of first connectors for connecting to a plurality of first multimedia components, respectively. The local console comprises a plurality of second connectors for connecting to a plurality of second multimedia components, respectively. A first user utilizes the first multimedia components, via the local console and the KVM switch, to communicate with a second user utilizing the second multimedia components. |
| US08103805B2 |
Configuration finalization on first valid NAND command
A startup method and circuit to allow high current consumption for startup processes of a low operating voltage memory device such as a NAND device until the receipt of a valid command to the memory device. Upon receipt of a valid command, startup functions are ceased at the high current consumption, and normal operation begins without the need for using an unreliable low voltage power on reset circuit. |
| US08103801B1 |
Marking and faulting input/output ports of an electronics system
Described is an electronics system and method for marking and faulting I/O ports of an I/O module in the electronics system. Each I/O port has an associated light-emitting system that is capable of emitting a plurality of different colors. At least one color is blinked at a first rate to produce a first status indicator for the I/O port. Each color of the different colors is alternately blinked at a second rate to produce a second status indicator for the I/O port. One of the status indicators is for marking the I/O port and the other status indicator is for faulting the I/O port. In one embodiment, the light-emitting system includes a plurality of differently colored LEDs. In another embodiment, the light-emitting system includes only one multicolor LED. Various I/O technologies including Fiber Channel, Fiber Connectivity, Ethernet, serial attached SCSI, IPsec, Infiniband, and iSCSI, can implement marking and faulting. |
| US08103793B2 |
Method and system for updating playlists
Improved techniques for automatic (or dynamic) updating (or maintaining) of playlists for a media system that stores and plays media content for a user of the media system. The automatic update to playlists can occur when additional media content is added to or removed from the media system. The automatic update to playlists can also occur when previously stored media content is otherwise altered. |
| US08103792B2 |
Systems and methods for forwarding data units in a communications network
A network device (110) includes a forwarding module (230) and one or more network interfaces (240) that may be configured to transmit data units. The forwarding module (230) may be configured to identify one of the network interfaces (240) to transmit a data unit when the data unit is received by the network device (110) or generated by the network device (110), determine one of the network interfaces (240) to transmit the data unit when the data unit is ready to be transmitted by the network device (110), and forward the data unit to the determined network interface (240) for network when the determined network interface (240) is the identified network interface (240). |
| US08103790B2 |
Apparatus and method for supporting multiple traffic categories at a single networked device
An apparatus comprising a first and a second functional entity operable for supporting traffic in, respectively, first and second traffic categories across a communications network. The second traffic category is associated with specific routing requirements. A network interface releases a request for a first address and a request for a second address. The request for a second address comprises data that is instrumental in causing the second address to be assigned by an address-assigning entity from a particular set of at least one address. The network is pre-configured to route traffic destined for a given address in the particular set of at least one address in accordance with the specific routing requirements. Receipt of the first address from the address-assigning entity enables the first functional entity to act as a receptor of traffic in the first traffic category, while receipt of the second address enables the second functional entity to act as a receptor of traffic in the second traffic category. |
| US08103789B1 |
Method and apparatus for computing a backup path using fate sharing information
To address shortcomings in the prior art, the invention uses fate sharing information to compute backup paths. Fate sharing information relates groups of nodes or links according to common characteristics, attributes, or shared resources (e.g., a shared power supply, close proximity, same physical link). In one embodiment, fate-sharing information includes costs associated with groups of nodes or links. When a primary path contains a link or node that is in a fate-sharing group, the other links or nodes in the fate-sharing group are assigned the cost associated with that fate-sharing group. The node computing the backup path takes into account the assigned cost together with other node and link costs. Discovering the existence of the relationships and assigning costs to the groups may be done manually or automatically. |
| US08103787B1 |
Flow control for gossip protocol
Techniques for reducing propagation delay and message loss within a network when replicating information among host computing devices are provided. To maintain flow control among host computing devices, a distributed transmission rate for host computing devices is allocated. Host computing devices adjust the transmission rate based on determined use by each host computing device. Individual host computing devices can also reduce propagation delay and message loss when replicating information by adjusting the number of updates produced based on overflow detections. |
| US08103781B1 |
Mechanism for handling persistent requests from stateless clients
In general, one aspect of the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in a method that includes receiving at a first device a first request for a physical address of a second device different from the first device, wherein the first request specifies a network address of the second device, and determining that a set of pending requests has a maximum number of requests, wherein the set of pending requests is ordered based on when the requests were received by the first device. The method can further include removing an oldest request from the pending requests and adding the first request to the pending requests, and processing a newest request in the pending requests by sending a message to the second device and receiving the physical address responsive to the message. |
| US08103780B2 |
Systems and methods for determining the location of a request on a content delivery network
A client computing system includes a processor that receives a domain name and determines if the domain name is in a list of domain names that are associated with a content delivery network (CDN). In response to determining that the first domain name is in the list, the processor directs a domain name system (DNS) request to a CDN DNS server, instead of to the default DNS server. |
| US08103778B2 |
Network operations management method and apparatus
The present invention provides a network operations management method and apparatus which realizes efficient power-saving by enabling virtual servers to move between physical servers beyond network segments. A reallocation design unit 13 designs reallocation of virtual servers to physical servers so that necessary resource amounts are assigned to all virtual servers. When virtual servers VS need to move between physical servers PS beyond network segments NS for the designed reallocation, a grouping unit 14 changes a network segment NS to which physical servers PS are connected by changing the configuration of a router and switches. A reallocation unit 15 realizes efficient power-saving by reallocating the virtual servers to the physical servers based on the design made by the reallocation design unit 13. |
| US08103776B2 |
Systems and methods for storage allocation in provisioning of virtual machines
Embodiments relate to systems and methods for storage allocation in the provisioning of virtual machines. A provisioning (or “cobbler”) server can interact with a local virtual machine installation client to initiate software provisioning to a set of virtual machines. The provisioning process can entail, for example, the selection and delivery of an operating system to the target set of virtual machines, as well as the installation of applications or other software. In conjunction with the provisioning process, the virtual machine installation client can identify and access a set of storage resources, such as hard disk or other storage, to be associated with the set of virtual machines, which themselves contain no local storage. That client can determine an allocation of the set of storage resources to each virtual machine in the set of virtual machines, for instance on a pro-rata basis or based on processing consumption or other factors. |
| US08103771B2 |
Distributing processing apparatus, method, and system
An information processing apparatus for performing, in response to a user's operation, reliable and effective distributed processing among a plurality of information processing apparatuses interconnected through a network. A main processor writes information data about an operating status of its own apparatus as an apparatus data in a main memory connected to the information processing controller, and transmits the apparatus data to another apparatus in response to a request from the other apparatus. Accordingly, an information processing apparatus checks the operating status of its own and other information processing apparatuses, selects an information processing apparatus for executing a computer program in response to the user's operation, and causes the selected apparatus to execute the computer program. |
| US08103763B2 |
System for remote configuration, control, and monitoring of devices over computer network using central server
Devices, systems and methods are disclosed that relate to the control of devices over a network from a central controller. A computer server can control, monitor and affect devices which include a controller and a network interface for communicating information between the device and the server. The device and central controller communicate using a predefined communications protocol for either remote configuration, control, or monitoring of the device and the protocol allows the central server to recognize the device as a hierarchical tree of contexts including data elements and metadata describing each said data element. |
| US08103759B2 |
Message redirection within a messaging infrastructure
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for redirecting client messages between hosts within a messaging infrastructure. When a host receives a client message, it can refer to lock information in a shared database to determine if it is the correct host to receive the client message. The lock information includes a redirect endpoint. The redirect endpoint identifies an endpoint where client messages can be sent for delivery to the appropriate workflow instance. The redirect endpoint can be included in a redirect fault message, that is returned to a host when a host attempts to process a client message that is already locked to another workflow instance. Using the redirect endpoint, a host receiving a redirect fault message can use the redirect endpoint to send a client message to the correct host. |
| US08103754B1 |
Reserving a shared volume in a multiple node data storage system
A method for reserving a shared volume in a multiple node data storage system is disclosed. The method ensures that only one host at a time has access to the shared volume. As a result, the data/information stored in the shared volume cannot become corrupted due to multiple hosts accessing the shared volume at the same time through different nodes. |
| US08103749B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing communications
The present invention provides a method and an apparatus for managing communications arriving from or to a node connected to a specified portion of a network. Some embodiments relate to an apparatus for managing communications arriving from or to a node connected to a specified portion of a network, including an external link identifier, a pool of addresses and an address replacement module. The external link identifier is configured to identify a message which is configured to enable requested content to be exchanged between the node and at least one other node which is external to the specified portion of the network. The pool of addresses is adapted to implement content insensitive criteria for determining which addresses to include in the pool. The address replacement module is adapted to implement a content insensitive replacement policy for determining whether an address included in the identified message should be replaced. |
| US08103744B2 |
Consumer equipment remote operation system and operating method for the same
By simply connecting consumer equipments physically to a home network, configurations are set automatically for the consumer equipment, and the consumer equipment is enabled to be remote operated easily via a home gateway that is not necessarily fixed in address.A home gateway 51 includes: a home management table 212a that manages equipment information of consumer equipment connected to the home network; an equipment detector 206 that cyclically transmits a detection request along the home network, detects consumer equipment, and acquires the equipment information of the detected consumer equipment; an equipment management unit 211 that updatingly registers the equipment information of the detected consumer equipment into the above-described home management table 212a; a DHCP server function 210a that sets network configurations for newly detected consumer equipment; and an equipment information registration unit that updatingly registers the equipment information in the home management table cyclically into a portal server 4. |
| US08103738B2 |
Micro-client for internet appliance
The invention provides a method and system for providing features for internet access at an internet appliance which go beyond the resource limitations of the internet appliance. The desired features are primarily implemented on the server, and coupled to the internet appliance for display, responsive to the ability of the internet appliance to provide those features. (1) The internet appliance and the server adapt to communication link limitations by dynamically adjusting picture quality or size for graphics to be displayed. (2) The internet appliance and the server adapt to memory and processor limitations by dynamically running applets at the server and intercepting display functions of applets for display at the internet appliance. (3) The internet appliance and the server adapt to memory and processor limitations by dynamically running editing programs or web pages at the server and by dynamically adjusting picture quality or size for graphics to be displayed. |
| US08103732B2 |
Methods for control and management of electronic messaging based on sender information
A method for controlling a message from a sender. A referee can evaluate a credential associated with a message to determine ifs desirability to the intended recipient, and take an action based upon the results of the determination. A sender that includes a trusted component can send a credential with the message, and the message can be controlled without a referee. |
| US08103728B2 |
Database synchronization on a network
Systems, methods and media for database synchronization on a network are disclosed. More particularly, hardware and/or software for database synchronization on a network protected with firewalls are disclosed. Embodiments include an e-mail listener for receiving e-mails from a plurality of computer systems and modifying a central database based on the received e-mails. In one embodiment, the computers systems and central database are protected by a firewall. Other embodiments provide for a transaction log that includes information about received e-mails. In these embodiments, the transaction log may optionally be used to synchronize other databases, including local databases located at the computer systems. |
| US08103727B2 |
Use of global intelligence to make local information classification decisions
Methods and systems are provided for delaying local information classification until global intelligence has an opportunity to be gathered. According to one embodiment, an initial information identification process, e.g., an initial spam detection, is performed on received electronic information, e.g., an e-mail message. Based on the initial information identification process, classification of the received electronic information is attempted. If the received electronic information cannot be unambiguously classified as being within one of a set of predetermined categories (e.g., spam or clean), then an opportunity is provided for global intelligence to be gathered regarding the received electronic information by queuing the received electronic information for re-evaluation. The electronic information is subsequently classified by performing a re-evaluation information identification process, e.g., re-evaluation spam detection, which provides a more accurate categorization result than the initial information identification process. Handling the electronic information in accordance with a policy associated with the categorization result. |
| US08103726B2 |
Analyzing email content to determine potential intended recipients
Described herein are processes and devices for analyzing email content to determine potential intended email recipients. One of the devices described is an email content analyzer device. The email content analyzer device can analyze content in a part of an email message that is not an email address recipient field. The email content analyzer device can obtain identifying information about a potential intended recipient of the email message, such as by looking for possible names of intended recipients within the body of the email message. The email content analyzer device can analyze the context of the identifying information in the content to determine the identity of the potential intended recipient. For example, the email content analyzer device can compare the identity of the potential intended recipient to an email addresses in an email address recipient field on the email message. The email content analyzer device can also determine whether the email message was intended for the potential intended recipient. |
| US08103722B2 |
Endpoint status notification system
The endpoint status notification system includes an address book of network user's names and their associated endpoints. A user selects a personal list of contacts from the address book and receives an instant message alert upon every occurrence of a reportable event for one of the contacts on the list. Alerts are informational status messages pertaining to the contact and are delivered unbeknownst to the contact. Preferably, alerts are popup windows displayed for a preset amount of time, however audible alerts are available in lieu of or in combination with the popups. Reportable events are selected by the user for each of the contacts on the list and may differ from contact to contact. Simultaneous with the alert, the user may be provided a call-control option related to the reportable event and pertaining to the contact. If selected, the call-control option causes a telecommunication function to immediately occur. |
| US08103720B2 |
Apparatus and computer-readable media for processing HTTP requests
Various embodiments of the invention are directed to closely integrating functionality between an internet server and a WebDAV tool. Areas of specific focus in this document include delegation of duties between the internet server and the WebDAV tool, efficient management of a resource's content-type, support for segregation of a namespace into separate virtual roots, and determinations of whether to invoke certain processing extensions to handle requests for a given HTTP verb. |
| US08103719B2 |
Message broadcasting control system and method
A system and method of broadcast messaging for providing a broadcast message to a broadcast target area including a broadcast admission control module receiving the broadcast message record having a broadcast message, a defined broadcast target area, and a broadcast message originator identifier. The broadcast admission control module validating the broadcast message record as a function one or more of the broadcast message originator identifier, the broadcast target area, and a broadcast message transmission network parameter associated with a broadcast transmission network adapted for broadcasting the message to at least a portion of the broadcast target area. The broadcast admission control module generating a validated broadcast message record as a function of the validating. The system also includes a broadcast message distributor module receiving the validated broadcast message record and transmitting the broadcast message and the broadcast target area, or a part thereof, to an output interface distributing the broadcast message to at least a portion of the broadcast target area. |
| US08103716B2 |
Methods and systems for forwarding an item to an alternative address
Systems and methods for forwarding an item in a delivery system may comprise scanning a first address label on an item to produce scan data and converting the scan data into first address data. Furthermore, systems and methods for forwarding the item may comprise determining if an alternative address exists in a change of address database, the alternative address corresponding to the captured first address data. Moreover, systems and methods for forwarding the item may comprise forwarding the item to a location corresponding to the alternative address if it was determined that the alternative address exists in the change of address database. |
| US08103715B1 |
Approach for managing mobile agents in networks
An approach for managing mobile agents in a network generally involves configuring a mobile agent in a secure manner such that the mobile agent will automatically terminate itself if the mobile agent cannot communicate with a specified entity before moving or the mobile agent cannot successfully communicate with a specified entity within a specified period of time. According to another embodiment, if a management process cannot communicate with a mobile agent within a specified period of time, then the management process attempts to cause the termination of the mobile agent. The management process may contact another management process that has the ability to terminate the mobile agent and request that other management process to cause the termination of the mobile agent. According to another embodiment, the management process may cause the creation and dispatch of a “hunter-killer” mobile agent configured to locate and cause the termination of other mobile agents. |
| US08103714B2 |
Transactional quality of service in event stream processing middleware
Computer implemented method, system and computer usable program code for achieving transactional quality of service in a transactional object store system. A transaction is received from a client and is executed, wherein the transaction comprises reading a read-only derived object, or reading or writing another object, and ends with a decision to request committing the transaction or a decision to request aborting the transaction. Responsive to a decision to request committing the transaction, wherein the transaction comprises writing a publishing object, events are delivered to event stream processing queries, and are executed in parallel with executing of the transaction. Responsive to a decision to request committing a transaction that comprises reading a read-only derived object, a validation is performed to determine whether the transaction can proceed to be committed, whether the transaction should abort, or whether the validation should delay waiting for one or more event stream processing queries to complete. |
| US08103712B2 |
Method for performing a division operation in a system
A method for performing a division operation in a system includes a) determining an approximate quotient of a numerator value and a denominator value; b) determining an initial error of the approximate quotient; c) determining a quotient adjustment value based on the initial error; d) determining whether to apply the quotient adjustment value to the approximate quotient; e) if the determination at d) is YES, then applying the quotient adjustment value to the approximate quotient; f) determining an iterative error of the approximate quotient; g) updating the quotient adjustment value based on the iterative error; h) repeating acts d) through g) until the determination at d) is NO, thereby determining a final value for the approximate quotient; i) generating an integer quotient based on the final value of the approximate quotient; and j) using the integer quotient with regard to at least one aspect of the system. |
| US08103710B1 |
Computer-implemented method and system for managing attributes of intellectual property documents, optionally including organization thereof
A computer-enabled system, method, and medium is provided to support, e.g., analyzing intellectual property documents by assigning attributes to the documents. The present invention is suitable for use by intellectual property professionals and is flexible to support development and use of customized attribute types and attributes. Optionally, a group of intellectual property documents can be divided into projects, which can be ingested including assigning attributes. Optionally, the attributes can be used to filter information included in e.g., searches, and/or reports. |
| US08103709B1 |
Computer-implemented method and system for managing attributes of intellectual property documents, optionally including organization thereof
A computer-enabled system, method, and medium is provided to support, e.g., analyzing intellectual property documents by assigning attributes to the documents. The present invention is suitable for use by intellectual property professionals and is flexible to support development and use of customized attribute types and attributes. Optionally, a group of intellectual property documents can be divided into projects, which can be ingested including assigning attributes. Optionally, the attributes can be used to filter information included in e.g., searches, and/or reports. |
| US08103703B1 |
System and method for providing content-specific topics in a mind mapping system
The present invention provides a mind mapping system that supports at least two types of topics: (1) topics that primarily provide a blank space in which text and graphic elements can be inserted by the user and (2) topics that operate as components with predefined behavior for the display of a certain kind of content. The first type of topic is well-known in the art, but the second type is novel. The second type of topic enables users to easily display, view and/or manipulate certain kinds of content within a topic. Examples of the second type of topic include topics that operate as video players for the display of video data, topics that operate as spreadsheet applications for the display of spreadsheet data, topics that operate as calculators for performing mathematical functions, and topics that act as interfaces to external systems, such as email systems, CAD systems, inventory/purchase order systems, and contact-management systems. |
| US08103694B1 |
System and method for managing data in multiple bills of material over a network
A method of storing and managing BOMs of different owners in the same environment. One or more BOMs have an owner. An owner's BOM may include confidential information such that unrestricted access to the confidential information is limited to the owner and any designates of the owner. In particular, one embodiment of the invention maintains a list of items that include the items in the BOMs of the different owners. A unique identifier is used for each item of the list. The item identifiers thus form one namespace. BOMs of different owners share data including confidential data within the same namespace. |
| US08103689B2 |
Rewrite of queries containing rank or rownumber or min/max aggregate functions using a materialized view
Techniques are provided for improving efficiency of database systems, and in particular, to refreshing materialized views maintained by database systems and rewriting queries to access the materialized views. According to the approaches, a ranked materialized view is incrementally refreshed, and during the incremental refresh operation, rows in the partitions of the materialized view are ranked within the partitions. |
| US08103685B1 |
Methods and apparatus for capturing last discovery time of managed objects
A system receives, from an agent, an agent timestamp associated with a production of a collection of data. The system creates a history associated with the collection of data and the agent timestamp. The system receives an indication that processing the collection of data is complete, and associates the collection of data and the agent timestamp with at least one resource referenced within the collection of data. |
| US08103682B2 |
Method and system for fast, generic, online and offline, multi-source text analysis and visualization
Methods and systems for text data analysis and visualization enable a user to specify a set of text data sources and visualize the content of the text data sources in an overview of salient features in the form of a network of words. A user may focus on one or more words to provide a visualization of connections specific to the focused word(s). The visualization may include clustering of relevant concepts within the network of words. Upon selection of a word, the context thereof, e.g., links to articles where the word appears, may be provided to the user. Analyzing may include textual statistical correlation models for assigning weights to words and links between words. Displaying the network of words may include a force-based network layout algorithm. Extracting clusters for display may include identifying “communities of words” as if the network of words was a social network. |
| US08103680B2 |
Systems and methods for historical information management
A networked computer system is provided for collecting and displaying historical content comprising a plurality of digital objects associated with a historical period or event. The computer system is comprised of one or more networked servers for processing the historical content. The servers are configured to access a database of host historical content input by an operator and user historical content input by a user, and display the historical content. One or more software applications running on the servers facilitate collection, integration and display of historical content. The software applications provide a template accessible to a user via a computer in communication with the network. The template is configured to allow the user to input the user historical content and relate a portion of the host historical content to create a user website integrating the user historical content with a portion of the host historical content. |
| US08103673B2 |
Systems and methods for provisioning content from multiple sources to a computing device
A system for provisioning content to at least one user is described. A content provisioning server is used. The content provisioning server includes a content provisioning application in communication with a user database. The content provisioning application is configured to access the user database to identify a user, determine rights of the user from the user database, and send a user interface to a client computing device that provides user interface items corresponding to the rights and associated links of the user. |
| US08103671B2 |
Text categorization with knowledge transfer from heterogeneous datasets
The present invention provides a method for incorporating features from heterogeneous auxiliary datasets into input text data for use in classification. Heterogeneous auxiliary datasets, such as labeled datasets and unlabeled datasets, are accessed after receiving input text data. Features are extracted from each of the heterogeneous auxiliary datasets. The features are combined with the input text data to generate a set of features which may potentially be used to classify the input text data. Classification features are then extracted from the set of features and used to classify the input text data. In one embodiment, the classification features are extracted by calculating a mutual information value associated with each feature in the set of features and identifying features having a mutual information value exceeding a threshold value. |
| US08103665B2 |
Soliciting information based on a computer user's context
A user search request is received and context information for the user is identified. The user search request and the context information are then combined to generate search criteria corresponding to the user search request, providing for information solicitation based on a computer user's context. |
| US08103664B2 |
System for automated computer support
Systems and methods for providing automated computer support are described herein. One described method comprises receiving a plurality of snapshots from a plurality of computers, storing the plurality of snapshots in a data store, and creating an adaptive reference model based at least in part on the plurality of snapshots. The described method further comprises comparing at least one of the plurality of snapshots to the adaptive reference model, and identifying at least one anomaly based on the comparison. |
| US08103662B2 |
Knowledge archival and recollection systems and methods
A computer implemented method of recording user activity in a knowledge archival and recollection system, comprising: initiating a network browser plug-in on detecting that a network browser has been opened; providing at least one file to a user from the network; transmitting and storing at least one file to a file archive using a file transfer protocol; gathering user activity data for each said at least one file accessed; associating user activity data to each related file; transmitting and storing user activity data to a database server using a database connection protocol; and indexing each file. |
| US08103655B2 |
Specifying a family of logics defining windows in data stream management systems
Simplifying a user's task in specifying a family of logics, with each logic designed to potentially select different subsets of values from the same continuous data stream at the same time instant. In one embodiment, all the logics are together specified by a common user specified software code design to accept a set of parameters, with different logics resulting from execution of the software code with different parametric values. Thus, when closely related family of logics are to be developed, the common software code may be formulated, with the code being designed to accept parameters and providing different logics for different sets of parametric values corresponding to the parameters. |
| US08103653B2 |
System for locating documents a user has previously accessed
A system is provided for enabling a user to search for documents that the user has previously viewed on its local machine. The system may include upon three main components: the desktop integration module, the index module, and the graphical user interface module. The desktop integration module is an application which monitors documents with which the user interacts for predetermined events, and obtains content data and metadata from the monitored documents. The index module indexes the content data and metadata received from the desktop integration module. The graphical user interface module then permits a user to utilize the desktop integration module and index module by allowing a user to search for a document. |
| US08103650B1 |
Generating targeted paid search campaigns
In particular embodiments, advertising groups may be formed based on keywords. Access a plurality of keywords, each keyword comprising one or more words and describing one or more characteristics or features of particular advertising subject matter. Annotate each of the keywords with one or more labels selected from a plurality of labels, each label comprising one or more words and describing one or more aspects of or one or more categories or concepts represented by the keyword. Group the keywords into one or more keyword groups based on similarities between the labels of the keywords, each keyword group comprising one or more of the keywords. Form one or more advertising groups from the keyword groups, comprising from each of the keyword groups, form one or more of the advertising groups, each of the advertising groups comprising one or more of the keywords in the keyword group. |
| US08103646B2 |
Automatic tagging of content based on a corpus of previously tagged and untagged content
An automated mechanism of automatically tagging media files such as podcasts, blog entries, and videos, for example, with meaningful taxonomy tags. The mechanism provides active (or automated) assistance in assigning appropriate tags to a particular piece of content (or media). Included is a system for automatic tagging of audio streams on the Internet, whether from audio files, or from the audio tracks of audio/video files, using the folksonomy of the Internet. The audio streams may be provided by the media author. For example, the author can make a recording to be posted on a website, and use the system to automatically suggest (via prompted author interaction) folksonomically appropriate tags for the media recording. Alternatively, the system can be used in an automated fashion to develop and assign without any intervention by the author. |
| US08103638B2 |
Partitioning of contended synchronization objects
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are disclosed for partitioning contended synchronization objects. A particular method determines a contention-free value of a performance metric associated with a synchronization object of a data structure. A contended value of the performance metric is measured, and the synchronization object is partitioned when the contended value of the performance metric exceeds a multiple of the contention-free value of the performance metric. |
| US08103636B2 |
File storage system and method for managing duplicate files in file storage system
Provided are a file storage system, and a method for managing duplicate files in the file storage system. The file storage system that performs file duplication for error recovery includes a client for requesting generation of a duplicate file of a new file being stored, a metadata server for storing information associated with prestored duplicate files and determining whether a file that is identical to the new file is present among the prestored duplicate files, to limit a number of identical duplicate files to a preset number, and a data server comprising a file duplication unit and a storage unit for respectively performing file duplication and file storage under the control of the metadata server. Accordingly, file recovery can be performed while duplicate files in the system are minimized. |
| US08103633B2 |
Method and system for generic display and use of an object
A method and system for obtaining past information in a generic manner. For a certain time point, obtaining a copy of the process object, including its structure and data from recorded changes. When setting up the process object, an action rule is associated with the process object to automate that any change in the data content and/or structure is recorded with an associated time of the change. In response to a request for past information, steps are taken to acquire past data, acquire past change data, and create a temporary object to simulate the object that would have existed at the specific time requested. |
| US08103631B2 |
Merging files on storage and retrieve
A client designates and transfers a file to a server in distinct chunks. The number of data chunks equals the number of communication sessions that are required to complete the transfer of the designated file to the server, that number being dependent on the number of times the communication session between the client and the server is interrupted. If the designated file includes several concatenated client files, each chunk of the designated file may include one or more such client files. Each chunk of the designated file may include some part of a client file and one or more whole client files. The byte-wise size or length of a chunk depends on the duration of the related communication session: the longer a communication session, the larger the related chunk. By transferring the designated file to the server as distinctly recognizable chunks, the need to retransmit large files to the server is avoided. |
| US08103629B2 |
Bi-directional data modification with synchronization
Systems and methods for synchronizing data between endpoints, including the modification of data on an endpoint without necessarily modifying data that is communicated between endpoints are disclosed. In such systems and methods the representation of data on an endpoint may be modified so that constraints on that particular endpoint are enforced, without requiring a similar or the same modification to the data when it is synchronized to other endpoints. |
| US08103628B2 |
Directed placement of data in a redundant data storage system
A data processing apparatus, comprising a metadata store storing information about files that are stored in a distributed data storage system, and comprising a class database; one or more processing units; logic configured for receiving and storing in the class database a definition of a class of data storage servers comprising one or more subclasses each comprising one or more server selection criteria; associating the class with one or more directories of the data storage system; in response to a data client storing a data file in a directory, binding the class to the data file, determining and storing a set of identifiers of one or more data storage servers in the system that match the server selection criteria, and providing the set of identifiers to the data client. |
| US08103626B2 |
Methods and systems for updating web pages via a web data instant update utility
A method for updating web pages on a web server without republishing the web pages involves providing on a production database server a live version of one or more business data tables containing information used to populate web pages on a production web server and storing in a quality assurance database server a quality assurance version of the business data tables that can be used to populate pages on a quality assurance web server. A maker at a business workstation can access the quality assurance database server from time to time and enter a change to data on the quality assurance version of the business data tables. Thereafter a checker at the business workstation accesses the quality assurance database server to review and approve or reject the changes to the data on the quality assurance version of the business data tables, and if the checker approves the changes, the changes to the data on the quality assurance version of the business data tables are replicated from the quality assurance database server to the live version of the business data tables on the production database server. |
| US08103615B2 |
Intelligently interactive profiling system and method
One aspect of the invention is a method for identifying at least one property of data. An example of the method includes receiving data, and making assessments regarding the data. The method also includes applying at least one behavioral operator, and outputting results. The method further comprises receiving feedback concerning system performance. Additionally, the method includes adjusting at least one parameter based on the feedback received concerning system performance, wherein the at least one parameter is a parameter of a machine learning method. |
| US08103613B2 |
Hypothesis based solicitation of data indicating at least one objective occurrence
A computationally implemented method includes, but is not limited to: soliciting, based at least in part on a hypothesis that links one or more objective occurrences with one or more subjective user states and in response at least in part to an incidence of at least one subjective user state associated with a user, at least a portion of objective occurrence data including data indicating incidence of at least one objective occurrence; and acquiring the objective occurrence data including the data indicating incidence of at least one objective occurrence. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure. |
| US08103609B2 |
Knowledge-based input region of interest definition for pharmacokinetic modeling
A system, apparatus, and method are based on a priori knowledge of the shape of the input function for defining an input region-if-interest (ROI) in pharmacokinetic modeling. Kinetic parameter estimation requires knowledge of tracer input activity and the present invention provides an automatic way to define an ROI for estimation of an input function that takes into account a priori knowledge of the shape of the input function based on an administered dose. |
| US08103603B2 |
Trainable hierarchical memory system and method
Memory networks and methods are provided. Machine intelligence is achieved by a plurality of linked processor units in which child modules receive input data. The input data are processed to identify patterns and/or sequences. Data regarding the observed patterns and/or sequences are passed to a parent module which may receive as inputs data from one or more child modules. the parent module examines its input data for patterns and/or sequences and then provides feedback to the child module or modules regarding the parent-level patterns that correlate with the child-level patterns. These systems and methods are extensible to large networks of interconnected processor modules. |
| US08103602B2 |
Solving the distal reward problem through linkage of STDP and dopamine signaling
In Pavlovian and instrumental conditioning, rewards typically come seconds after reward-triggering actions, creating an explanatory conundrum known as the distal reward problem or the credit assignment problem. How does the brain know what firing patterns of what neurons are responsible for the reward if (1) the firing patterns are no longer there when the reward arrives and (2) most neurons and synapses are active during the waiting period to the reward? A model network and computer simulation of cortical spiking neurons with spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) modulated by dopamine (DA) is disclosed to answer this question. STDP is triggered by nearly-coincident firing patterns of a presynaptic neuron and a postsynaptic neuron on a millisecond time scale, with slow kinetics of subsequent synaptic plasticity being sensitive to changes in the extracellular dopamine DA concentration during the critical period of a few seconds after the nearly-coincident firing patterns. Random neuronal firings during the waiting period leading to the reward do not affect STDP, and hence make the neural network insensitive to this ongoing random firing activity. The importance of precise firing patterns in brain dynamics and the use of a global diffusive reinforcement signal in the form of extracellular dopamine DA can selectively influence the right synapses at the right time. |
| US08103601B2 |
Complexity systems management method
The Complexity Systems Management (CSM) Method is a scientifically derived business process method for managing complex events and situations. The CSM Method™ is based on new scientific evidence that explains the behaviors of complex adaptive systems. This same scientific evidence gives rise to a new method of science, known as a priori optionality. A priori optionality is based on six scientifically derived tenets that are systematically applied using the CSM Method™ to more accurately characterize the behaviors of complex adaptive systems and manage complex events and situations. Applications of the CSM Method are integrally tied to specialized knowledgebases and a plurality of automated software applications. |
| US08103600B1 |
Graphic user interface having menus for display of context and syntax useful in an artificial intelligence system
A graphical user interface (GUI) is used for rendering semantic concepts and provides menu selections that are rendered in accordance with the semantic concepts. The display includes fields for rendering logical associations in multiple display fields. A first field is provided for a semantic concept, and a second field is provided for receiving a consequent of the semantic concept. First and second menus are used to display the semantic concept in a hierarchical display of a set of semantic concepts and to display consequents corresponding to the semantic concepts. A third field for display a semantic concept and a fourth field displays a consequent of the semantic concept. If a user makes a selection from one of the first and second menus, the GUI renders displays in the third and fourth fields in accordance with the selection. |
| US08103596B1 |
License verification system and method
A system and method collects regulatory licensing requirements, employment data for a professional and licensing data for the professional, and determines the professional's licensing requirements. Based on the professional's licensing requirements, the system and method determines compliance with the regulatory licensing requirements. |
| US08103593B2 |
Method and system for providing DRM license
A system for providing digital rights management (DRM) license is provided. The system includes a sink system requesting a license for content, a source system generating and providing a first rights token including binding information related to the license, in accordance with the request, and a rights mediator generating a second rights token that is usable in the sink system on the basis of the first rights token and transmitting the generated second rights token to the sink system. The sink system provides the license for the content on the basis of the second rights token. The first rights token includes binding information of principals that indicates use subjects related to the license, and binding information of principals that indicates use objects related to the license. |
| US08103584B2 |
Systems and methods for authorizing an allocation of an amount between transaction accounts
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 enables the allocation of a portion or all of a charge or loyalty points to different transaction accounts issued by different issuers, or to sub-accounts. |
| US08103583B2 |
Computerized transaction method and system
A computerized transaction method involves accepting offers at a computer from entities, the offers each comprising an identification of at least one transactable item and a value associated by each entity with the at least one transactable item, identifying a median value derived from the accepted offers, and initiating transactions among at least some of the entities from whom the offers were accepted. |
| US08103582B1 |
Multi-purpose transaction account
A transaction account is disclosed that includes attributes of a checking or savings account in that, for example, an account holder earns interest on a positive balance in the account. The transaction account additionally includes attributes of a credit-card-type account in that the account holder owes interest on a negative balance in the account. With such an account having the positive and negative balance attributes of checking or savings accounts and of credit-card-like accounts, the account holder or customer may manage the account more efficiently than by maintaining multiple accounts. The financial institution may save costs resulting from the overhead associated with maintaining numerous accounts for the same customer. Finally, the financial institution may benefit from charging a credit-card-like transaction fee to merchants that accept the card even if the transaction results in a positive balance in the transaction account. |
| US08103580B2 |
Issuing machine and issuing system for public-offering a financing instrument on-line
An issuing system for issuing unmodifiable and/or unforgeable hardcopy documents or securities includes a server and a plurality of issuing machines connected to the server via a network. Each of the issuing machines receives an ID recording medium provided by a potential purchaser, retrieves an identification recorded in the received ID recording medium, requests the potential purchaser to input a request for a transaction of the security or financing instrument, processes the requested transaction, and prints out on demand a hardcopy of the security or financing instrument as purchased by the potential purchaser and a checksum thereon. A method for forming a new market with the issuing system embodies preparing the financing instrument, public-offering the financing instrument, delivering to the purchaser a financial disclosure, requesting the purchaser to acknowledge receipt and review of the financial disclosure, confirming acknowledgement of the financial disclosure from the purchaser; and processing the requested transaction by retrieving information via the network to the server. |
| US08103578B2 |
System and method for multi-factor modeling, analysis and margining of credit default swaps for risk offset
A system and method for determining a margin requirement associated with a plurality of financial instruments within a portfolio is disclosed. The system and method include receiving a plurality of data associated with the plurality of financial instruments within the portfolio, determining a systematic risk margin based on at least a portion of the received plurality of data, determining a curve risk margin based on at least a second portion of the received plurality of data, determining a convergence and divergence risk margin based on at least a third portion of the received plurality of data, determining a sector risk margin based on at least a fourth portion of the received plurality of data, determining an idiosyncratic risk margin based on at least a fifth portion of the received plurality of data, determining a liquidity risk margin based on at least a sixth portion of the received plurality of data, determining a basis risk margin based on at least a seventh portion of the received plurality of data, and calculating a multi-factor risk margin based on one more of the determined risk factors. |
| US08103577B2 |
Auction system and system of forming investment trust and financial products and funds including viatical and life settlement
A computer-implemented system for trading a viatical and life settlement insurance policy receives a seller's selling price for the policy; divides the policy into a plurality of units; determines a price of one unit based on the number of units; receives a purchase price of the policy from at least one potential purchaser; makes an initial determination of the number of units bought by the potential purchaser in order to be allocated depending on the purchase price; compares the total number of units allocated to the potential purchaser with the total number of units into which the policy was divided; adjusts the price of one unit based on this comparison; and redetermines the number of units allocated to the potential purchaser, depending on the adjusted purchase price. The system repeats making the comparison, the price adjustment, and the redetermination for a given amount of time. |
| US08103575B1 |
System and method for use in auditing financial transactions
A data processing system that records detailed market information for one or more financial markets to facilitate the audit of executed trades for time, quantity, and price as being reasonable. The system receives and records data from financial markets, including the date and time trades are executed and the prices at which the financial instruments traded. The system provides users the ability to compare a particular transaction for a financial instrument to transaction data for the same and/or related financial instruments at around the same time, to determine whether the price paid for the financial instrument is reasonable for the time the trade was executed. A trade confirmation service is also provided to permit traders to verify the parameters of executed transactions. |
| US08103572B2 |
System, method, and computer readable medium for allocating dividends to a block of common stock shares
A system, a method, and a computer readable medium for allocating dividends to a block of common stock shares are provided. The method includes selling a plurality of Class A common stock shares and a plurality of Class No-Dividend common stock shares associated with the company, that form the block of common stock shares. The method further includes determining a total dividend amount for the block of common stock shares. The method further includes allocating a first percentage of the total dividend amount to the plurality of Class A common stock shares, and allocating a second percentage of the total dividend amount to the plurality of Class No-Dividend common stock shares. The method further includes performing a share buyback of a predetermined number of Class No-Dividend common stock shares of the plurality of Class No-Dividend common stock shares equal to the second percentage of the total dividend amount. |
| US08103571B2 |
Method and system for an enhanced step-up provision in a deferred variable annuity with a rising guaranteed step-up
A computer implemented data processing system and method administers a deferred variable annuity contract during the accumulation phase for a relevant life. The annuity contract has a payment base value, a contract value, and a step-up provision. Administration of the product determines whether a step-up of the payment base value is applicable. If applicable, the product determines a step-up, wherein the step-up is guaranteed at a predetermined percentage. The investments of the deferred variable annuity contract are not limited to a specific asset allocation in order to qualify for the step-up provision. |
| US08103568B1 |
Fraudulent transaction identification system
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods, systems and computer program products for identifying fraudulent transactions. In general, transaction information is inputted into the system and an address is received from such information. A database is then queried to determine if the address already exists in the database. A determination is made whether or not the transaction is suspicious in response to the address existing in the database entry. Alternatively, in response to the address not existing in the database entry, a determination is made as to whether or not the transaction is suspicious based on a geocode. A geocode is a geographic location or coordinates of an address. |
| US08103567B1 |
Securitized reusable personal asset system
Illustratively, there can be a securitization system that is comprised of a computer or computers using a network, and a process, for the conversion of assets into marketable securities. In one embodiment, the securitization system includes a distribution system to distribute at least some of the marketable securities generated by the securitization system to one or more buyers. The process may utilize a new definition of securitization that expands the universe of securitizable assets, the universe of asset securitization methodologies, and the universe of securities that can be designed and generated thereby. |
| US08103566B1 |
Retirement administration and distribution system
An embodiment of the present invention is a retirement administration and distribution system. A client administering module administers clients using a set of client business rules. The clients include at least an operator and a plurality of customers. An account manager administers accounts and processes retirement benefits of the customers. A communication interface exports and receives communication data related to the accounts and the retirement benefits of the customers. |
| US08103559B2 |
Maintenance of group shared inventories in a virtual universe
Generally speaking, systems, methods and media for maintenance of group shared inventories in a virtual universe are disclosed. Embodiments of the method may include receiving usage information for one or more inventory items each shared by a group having a plurality of users and storing the received usage information. Embodiments may also include analyzing the usage information for at least one shared inventory item and performing an action based on the analysis of the usage information. The action performed may include archiving, deleting, changing the price for, or adding to a list of included inventory items the shared inventory item. Further embodiments may include determining whether a rule based on group usage is satisfied and performing the action accordingly. Further embodiments may also include analyzing the usage information to determine trends of usage, comparing the determined usage trends to an established heuristic, and performing an action as a result. |
| US08103558B2 |
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media for placing orders
Included are embodiments for customized ordering. At least one embodiment of a method includes receiving an indication to send a previously created customized order to a vendor and retrieving at least one component of the customized order according to the indication. Some embodiments include determining the vendor associated with the customized order and sending the at least one component of the customized order to the vendor in a first manner, the vendor being configured to receive the customized order. |
| US08103557B2 |
Online merchandising system, online catalog presenting method, server, computer program product, and computer data signal
The shopping server provides an online shopping service with retrieving information of items handled, relations among the items, user's purchase history, user's request, and the like via the internet or the intrafirm network. The shopping server generates electronic catalogs personalized for each user based on the retrieved information so as to show useful and helpful information to each user. The catalogs are categorized in accordance with the purposes. Some of the categories are fulfilled by the automatic entry in accordance with the item relations or the user's purchase through the online shopping service, while the others are fulfilled by the user's arbitrary designation. The shopping server presents the generated catalogs to the users via the internet, so that the categories are switchable and customizable by the user. |
| US08103554B2 |
Method and system for playing an electronic book using an electronics system in a vehicle
A method and system for using a vehicle's electronic systems to provide all features and functions typically found on a handheld electronic book device. The vehicle's electronic systems can be used in an integrated fashion with a user's handheld electronic book device, such that the vehicle's systems can be used to recite electronic book materials, media files can be shared between the vehicle and the handheld device, bookmarks can be synchronized, and the user can seamlessly switch from one system to the other. The vehicle's electronic systems can also be used independent of any other electronic book device, such that the vehicle's systems provide all electronic book device functionality—including browsing for new reading materials, purchase, download, storage, reading, and listening. |
| US08103551B2 |
Fashion matching algorithm solution
In one example embodiment, a system and method is illustrated that includes receiving an item choice including a fashion item. The system and method also includes matching the fashion item with an additional fashion item selected from a style matrix, the matching based upon an attribute. Further, the system and method includes transmitting the additional fashion item as part of an outfit match set. Moreover, the system and method includes selecting the fashion item from a digital closet. The system and method includes processing the fashion item to build an attribute association matrix. In addition, the system and method includes comparing the attribute association matrix and the style matrix to determine a match of the fashion item and the additional item. |
| US08103540B2 |
System and method for influencing recommender system
A system and method for implementing/influencing a recommender system which provides recommendations to users based on characteristics of certain trendsetters within a member population. The trendsetters are determined by studying historical adoption behavior of a group within the member population, or by reference to known indicia. |
| US08103538B2 |
Method and system for forecasting demand of a distribution center and related stores
A method and a system for forecasting demand of a distribution center and related stores are described herein. In particular, the system may identify a season and an item associated with the season. The system may generate initial forecasts of the item associated with the season for the plurality of stores. Based on the initial forecasts, the system may generate projected store sales. Accordingly, the system may generate projected store orders based on the projected store sales. Further, the system may generate an aggregate projected store order based on the projected store orders. Based on the aggregate projected store order, the system may generate a distribution center order of the item associated with the season. |
| US08103537B2 |
Decision theoretic approach to targeted solicitation by maximizing expected profit increases
A decision theoretic approach to targeted solicitation, by maximizing expected profit increases, is disclosed. A decision theoretic model is used to identify a sub-population of a population to solicit, where the model is constructed to maximize an expected increase in profits. A decision tree in particular can be used as the model. The decision tree has paths from a root node to a number of leaf nodes. The decision tree has a split on a solicitation variable in every path from the root node to each leaf node. The solicitation variable has two values, a first value corresponding to a solicitation having been made, and a second value corresponding to a solicitation not having been made. |
| US08103536B2 |
Unified model for authoring and executing flow-based and constraint-based workflows
Designing and executing a workflow having flow-based and constraint-based regions. A user selects one or more activities to be part of a constraint-based region. Each constraint-based region has a constraint associated therewith. The workflow is executed by executing the flow-based region and the constraint-based region. The flow-based region executes sequentially. The constraint is evaluated, and the constraint-based region executes responsive to the evaluated constraint. |
| US08103535B2 |
Evaluation of fitness for a contractual agreement related to provisioning information technology services
The exemplary embodiments of the invention provide computer programs, methods, apparatus and systems that describe techniques providing improved evaluation of business processes based on considerations such as throughput and/or parallelization. As a non-limiting example, such techniques may be useful for evaluating agreements between entities, such as service level agreements between a service provider and another entity (e.g., a supplier or customer of the service provider), for example. In one exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method includes: obtaining a workflow model having a plurality of atomic processes, each atomic process having a distribution of throughput; determining an overall distribution of throughput for the workflow model using the distributions of throughput of the atomic processes; and outputting a determination of whether an agreement relating to the workflow model is fit based on the determined overall distribution of throughput. |
| US08103532B2 |
Method and system for fast local search and insertion heuristics for vehicle routing
Methods and systems to reduce vehicle travel time in a vehicle routing plan having vehicle routes which includes vehicles and customers serviced by the vehicles, including executing cross-exchanges of the customers for combinations of vehicle routes in the vehicle routing plan. |
| US08103527B1 |
Managing insurance claim data across insurance policies
A method for managing insurance claim data across insurance policies involves identifying a first insurance claim data and a second insurance claim data using pattern recognition on multiple insurance claim data associated with an insured party, where the first insurance claim data and the second insurance claim data are associated with a single insurance claim of the insured party, where the first insurance claim data is further associated with a first insurance policy, and where the second insurance claim data is further associated with a second insurance policy. The method further involves determining a financial responsibility of the insured party for the single insurance claim based on the first insurance claim data and the second insurance claim data, and presenting the financial responsibility in a graphical user interface (GUI). |
| US08103526B1 |
System and method for flexible insurance rating calculation
A product rate calculation system operating as a rating server (e.g., a process executing on a server computer system, or a process executing on the same computer system as a client process but serving information to the client process) advantageously provides a flexible insurance rating calculation system that can easily be modified and expanded, while still providing quick, and even real-time responsiveness to product rate requests. The product rate calculation system includes an interface to a product information database and a cache for storing product rate information for efficient reuse. The product rate information includes product rate expressions that are parsed and evaluated by an expression evaluation routine to determine a product rate. As part of the evaluation process, additional product rate information (such as look-up table data and numerical constants) as well as consumer information can be used. |
| US08103525B2 |
Utilizing conditional logic in medical documentation
Methods, computer storage media, systems and user interfaces that guide a clinician to complete medical documentation. The method, computer storage media, system and user interfaces include presenting a first medical documentation set to indicate a medical aspect for which medical data is to be documented. At least one of the medical documentation elements in the first set is linked to a second medical documentation set. A selection of one of the linked medical documentation elements in the first set is received, and the second medical documentation set is presented. An attribute for at least one of the medical data fields in the first or second set is received, and the attributes received for the first and the second medical documentation sets are aggregated into a medical data group. |
| US08103523B2 |
Diagnostic and intervention tools for emergency medical dispatch
A system and method assists an emergency medical dispatcher in responding to emergency calls. A computer implemented emergency medical dispatch protocol includes interrogatories for a dispatcher to ask a caller to generate an appropriate response. A diagnostic tool is provided to determine a vital sign of a patient based on a timer and caller relayed information about the patient. An intervention tool is provided to administer assistance and determine a compression rate based on a timer and caller relayed information. |
| US08103522B1 |
System and method for calculating claim reimbursement recommendations
The present invention provides a system and method for calculating claim reimbursement recommendations. A medical claim is received and grouped to an rDRG or a median cost value. All similar hospital cases based on the same rDRG are identified. Costs of all comparison cases are then adjusted based on hospital's wage index. Using a pre-selected methodology, the initial target reimbursement amount is calculated. Any applicable override rules and/or inflation factors are then applied to arrive at the reimbursement amount. All relevant information on reimbursement amount and how the amount was calculated is presented to the user. |
| US08103520B2 |
Method and apparatus for selecting a supplemental product to offer for sale during a transaction
According to some embodiments, a supplemental product or service may be offered to a user during a transaction, either in addition to products and/or services the user is purchasing, or as a replacement to one or more of the products and/or services that the user is purchasing. The functionality may be implemented, for example, in a retail embodiment where a user is purchasing products and/or services at a cash register or other point-of-sale terminal. One or more embodiments may be implemented online where a user is purchasing products and/or services using a computer, terminal, telephone or other client or user device and accessing a World Wide Web site, online catalog, interactive voice response unit or system, etc. |
| US08103517B2 |
System and method to improve fitness training
A method for creating a personalized exercise routine with at least one user interface used in connection with forming machine-readable instructions protected as private to a user subsequently carrying out the exercise routine on an exercise machine, the method including the steps of: providing the user with at least one user interface to define the personalized exercise routine; forming machine-readable instructions to control the exercise machine to carry out the exercise routine on the exercise machine, said machine instructions protected as private to the user; storing the personalized exercise routine formed in the machine-readable instructions in a memory device; and user-triggered engaging of the machine-readable instructions to control the exercise machine in carrying out the personalized exercise routine. In the method, the step of forming machine-readable instructions to control the exercise machine can includes the steps of associating the exercise routine with a first exercise machine to produce a first set of signals; and subsequently translating the first set of signals into the machine-readable instructions. |
| US08103516B2 |
Subband coding apparatus and method of coding subband
A subband coding apparatus carries out subband coding which prevents deterioration in coding performance and improves audio quality of decoded signals. The subband coding apparatus includes a low-band coding section (103) to code a low-band spectrum (S13). A low-band decoding section (106) decodes a low-band coded data (S14) and outputs a decoded low-band spectrum (S18) to a high-band coding section (107). A spectrum rearranging section (105) rearranges to make each frequency component of a high-band spectrum (S16) in reverse order on the frequency axis and outputs a modified high-band spectrum (S17) after rearranging to a high-band coding section (107). The high-band coding section (107) uses the decoded low-band spectrum (S18) output from the low-band decoding section (106) to code the modified high-band spectrum (S17) output from the spectrum rearranging section (105). |
| US08103513B2 |
Slot position coding of syntax of spatial audio application
Spatial information associated with an audio signal is encoded into a bitstream, which can be transmitted to a decoder or recorded to a storage media. The bitstream can include different syntax related to time, frequency and spatial domains. In some embodiments, the bitstream includes one or more data structures (e.g., frames) that contain ordered sets of slots for which parameters can be applied. The data structures can be fixed or variable. The data structure can include position information that can be used by a decoder to identify the correct slot for which a given parameter set is applied. The slot position information can be encoded with either a fixed number of bits or a variable number of bits based on the data structure type. |
| US08103512B2 |
Method and system for aligning windows to extract peak feature from a voice signal
Disclosed is a method capable of adaptively aligning windows to extract features according to the types and characteristics of voice signals. To this end, window lengths based on the window update points in a corresponding order are determined by employing the concept of a higher order peak, and windows are aligned according to window lengths. When the windows are aligned according to such a manner, the start and end points of each window is known, so that it becomes possible to easily extract and analyze peak feature information. |
| US08103511B2 |
Multiple audio file processing method and system
An audio file generation method and system. A computing system receives a first audio file comprising first speech data associated with a first party. The computing system receives a second audio file comprising second speech data associated with a second party. The first audio file differs from the second audio file. The computing system generates a third audio file from the second audio file. The third audio file differs from the second audio file. The process to generate the third audio file includes identifying a first set of attributes missing from the second audio file and adding the first set of attributes to the second audio file. The process to generate the third audio file additionally includes removing a second set of attributes from the second audio file. The third audio file includes third speech data associated with the second party. The computing system broadcasts the third audio file. |
| US08103510B2 |
Device control device, speech recognition device, agent device, on-vehicle device control device, navigation device, audio device, device control method, speech recognition method, agent processing method, on-vehicle device control method, navigation method, and audio device control method, and program
A speech recognition unit (2) performs speech recognition on a speech of an utterer input by a speech input unit (1), specifies possible words which are represented by the speech, and the scores thereof, and a natural language analyzer (3) specifies parts of speech of the words and supplies word data representing the words to an agent processing unit (7). The agent processing unit (7) stores process item data which defines a data acquisition process to acquire word data or the like, a discrimination process, and an input/output process, and wires or data defining transition from one process to another and giving a weighting factor to the transition, and executes a flow represented generally by the process item data and the wires to thereby control devices belonging to an input/output target device group (6) in such a way as to adequately grasp a demand of the utterer and meet the demand. |
| US08103508B2 |
Voice activated language translation
A voice activated language translation system that is accessed by telephones where voice messages of a caller are translated into a selected language and returned to the caller or optionally sent to another caller. A voice recognition system converts the voice messages into text of a first language. The text is then translated into text of the selected language. The text of the selected language is then converted into voice. |
| US08103506B1 |
Free text matching system and method
The present disclosure provides method and system for converting a free text expression of an identity to a phonetic equivalent code. The conversion follows a set of rules based on phonetic groupings and compresses the expression to a shorter series of characters than the expression. The phonetic equivalent code may be compared to one or more other phonetic equivalent code to establish a correlation between the codes. The phonetic equivalent code of the free text expression may be associated with the code of a known identity. The known identity may be provided to a user for confirmation of the identity. Further, a plurality of expressions stored in a database may be consolidated by converting the expressions to phonetic equivalent codes, comparing the codes to find correlations, and if appropriate reducing the number of expressions or mapping the expressions to a fewer number of expressions. |
| US08103503B2 |
Speech recognition for determining if a user has correctly read a target sentence string
Systems and methods for processing a user speech input to determine whether the user has correctly read a target sentence string are provided. One disclosed method may include receiving a sentence array including component words of the target sentence string and processing the sentence array to generate a symbolic representation of the target sentence string. The symbolic representation may include a subset of words selected from the component words of the target sentence string, having fewer words than the sentence array. The method may include processing user speech input to recognize in the user speech input each of the words in the subset of words in the symbolic representation of the target sentence string. The method may further include, upon recognizing the subset of words, making a determination that the user has correctly read the target sentence string. |
| US08103501B2 |
System and method for generation and authentication of a signed document using voice analysis
The invention refers to a process and an arrangement for the generation of a signed text and/or image document, in particular a digital document for electronic sending and/or for electronic storage. The invention is characterized by the fact that the name and/or an image and/or any other representation of a person, for example a person code, is attached to the basic document in combination with an authentication certificate, wherein the authentication certificate is generated as the result of a voice analysis of the person performed in relation with generation of the document in terms of timing. |
| US08103499B2 |
Disambiguation of telephone style key presses to yield Chinese text using segmentation and selective shifting
To enter Chinese text, a user enters the corresponding phonetic spelling via telephone style keypad. Some or all keys represent multiple phonetic letters. In disambiguating entered key presses to yield a valid phonetic spelling, a computer divides the key presses into segments, while still preserving key press order. Each segment must correspond to an entry in a dictionary of Chinese characters, character phrases, and/or character components such as radicals or other predetermined stroke groupings. Upon arrival of a new key press that cannot form a valid entry when appended to the current segment, key presses are incrementally reallocated from the previous segment. As for already-resolved segments occurring prior to the previous and current segments, these are left intact. After each shifting attempt, the computer reinterprets key presses of the last two segments, and accepts the new segmentation if the segments form valid dictionary entries. |
| US08103498B2 |
Progressive display rendering of processed text
A method and a system are provided for processing displayed text and progressively displaying results of processing the displayed text. In some embodiments, displayed text may be submitted as processing requests to process portions of the displayed text. The processing may include translation of the portions of the displayed text from a source natural language to a target natural language, grammar checking of the portions of the displayed text, or other types of processing. Each of the processing requests may include one or more complete sentences, or other units of text. Further, each of the processing requests may be submitted independently of receiving a processing response corresponding to an immediately preceding submitted processing request. Changed or annotated text included in processing responses may replace corresponding displayed text. |
| US08103495B2 |
Feature oriented protocol modeling
Modeling protocols. A method includes accessing a number of model programs. Each model program includes computer-executable instructions. The computer-executable instructions describe the behavior of at least one of another program, system, or component. Model programs may be disjointed in that they have independent meaning or dependent in that they include at least one of a state variable, action, or precondition that is dependent on another model program to impart meaning to the model program. An output model program is composed by unification including substituting state variables into another of the model programs without executing the model programs. Traces are generated from the output model program. Each of the traces includes a path of labels. The labels describe actions of the output model program from an initial state to an accepting state where a run is allowed to stop. The traces are output to a user. |
| US08103494B2 |
Management systems and methods
A management system and method. The system comprises at least one delivery request, a plurality of equipment and a simulator. The delivery request indicates a plurality of devices, each comprising a respective quantity. The equipment tests the devices, each equipment comprising an equipment configuration. The simulator retrieves device configuration requirements of respective devices, maps the devices to the equipment according to the respective device configuration requirements and the equipment configurations to obtain a mapping result, and calculates at least one performance index based on the mapping result and the quantity of respective devices. |
| US08103490B2 |
Method to aid the design of a system architecture
The present invention relates to a method for aiding the design of a system architecture. The method for design of an architecture of a system according to an embodiment of the invention includes at least the following steps: functional and non-functional analysis of a technical requirement with which the system complies; formalization of points of view for analysis of the architecture of the system based on the functional and non-functional analysis; definition of one rule for analysis of the architecture of the system for each analysis point of view; construction of the architecture of the system; and analysis of the architecture according to the rules of analysis. The design of system architectures notably relates to the field of system engineering. The systems to which the present invention is applicable can be hardware systems, software systems, or systems combining both hardware and software. An embodiment of the present invention may be implemented in the framework of the development of an aircraft navigation system. |
| US08103488B2 |
Tire design method
In a tire design method, a numerical optimization is performed according to a basis vector process using an FEM model to obtain an optimal solution which optimizes an objective function for a tread pattern shape. A numerical optimization is performed according to an ECAT using the FEM model to obtain an optimal solution which optimizes the objective function for the tread pattern shape. Either of the calculations is executed first, and the optimal solution obtained at the first calculation is used as an initial shape when the other numerical optimization is performed. |
| US08103487B2 |
Controlling the number of iterations in image reconstruction
An iterative reconstruction method to reconstruct an object includes determining, in a series of iteration steps, updated objects, wherein each iteration step includes determining a data model from an input object, and determining a stop-criterion of the data model on the basis of a chi-square-gamma statistic. The method further includes determining that the stop-criterion of the data model has transitioned from being outside the limitation of a preset threshold value to being inside the limitation, ending the iterations, and selecting one of the updated objects to be the reconstructed object. |
| US08103484B2 |
Method and apparatus for computer-aided design of three-dimensional objects to be fabricated
A computer-aided design apparatus generates a tree structure of coordinate systems defining the topology of a three-dimensional object to be fabricated. The coordinate systems are positioned and orientated in accordance with mathematical functions. The mathematical function positioning child coordinate systems has the identity of the parent coordinate systems as a variable so that the positions of the child coordinate systems relative to their parent coordinate systems vary in accordance with the identity of the parent coordinate systems. Data defining the coordinate systems and connections therebetween is stored in a graph. Bases having a defined relationship are identified and three-dimensional content objects are added thereto. The content objects are added using the same mathematical function to generate a three-dimensional content object in each of a plurality of coordinate systems. The mathematical function for generating the content objects has the identity of the coordinate systems as a variable thereof to generate the content object in each coordinate system with a different shape. |
| US08103482B2 |
Sensor evaluation system, sensor evaluation method, and storage medium recording sensor evaluation program
A sensor evaluation system communicating to a plurality of sensors and an analysis system providing analysis service using time series sensor data obtained from at least one of the plurality of sensors includes a time series data recorder recording a time series data showing changes with time of events having predetermined relations with the analysis service associating with the analysis system, a sensor relevance ratio calculator calculating sensor relevance ratios indicating relevance ratios of sensor data to the time series data by comparing changes with time of events indicated by the time series data and time series records of the sensor data used by the service execution part to provide analysis service in the same period, and a sensor importance calculator calculating sensor importance using the sensor relevance ratio calculated by the sensor relevance ratio calculator as a guide before recording the calculated sensor importance in a sensor importance recorder. |
| US08103476B2 |
Abnormal simulation signal analysis methods and abnormal signal simulation analysis module for 4˜20mA instrumental system
The present invention relates to a negative pulse transient signal analysis methods and negative pulse transient signal analysis module for a PC base simulation equivalent circuit capable of grasping and improving error causes through an abnormal signal analysis after configuring a simulation equivalent circuit for a 4˜20 mA instrument unsatisfied in a temperature environmental impact assessment. |
| US08103474B2 |
Debug system
A debug system includes equipment to be debugged (onboard information equipment 10) which is controlled by a microcomputer 11; and a command return jig 20 which is connected to the equipment to be debugged via a communication interface unit 12, receives a specific command generated and output by the microcomputer 11 via the communication interface unit, and outputs the specific command by return to the equipment to be debugged, wherein the equipment to be debugged switches, when receiving the specific command from the command return jig, the microcomputer to set it in an operation environment the microcomputer does not use normally. |
| US08103468B2 |
Methods and devices for evaluating the operating characteristics of a DBR laser diode
In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of evaluating the operating characteristics of a Distributed Bragg Reflector (DBR) laser diode is provided. According to the method, a diagnostic electrical current is injected into the wavelength tuning section of the DBR laser to generate amplified spontaneous emission of light in the wavelength tuning section. Light emitted from the wavelength tuning section is absorbed by the gain section and photo current generated by the light absorbed in the gain section is measured. The photo current measured in the gain section can be correlated with an evaluation of the operating characteristics of the DBR laser diode. For example, the measured photo current can be correlated with a substandard operating characteristic when it departs from a given photo current metric by more than an acceptable amount. Additional embodiments are disclosed and claimed. |
| US08103465B2 |
System and method for monitoring and managing energy performance
Generation of renewable energy for, exportation of the renewable energy from, importation of utility generated energy to, and consumption of energy at, a facility are monitored in substantially real time to provide for substantially real time management and reporting of energy performance of the facility. Monitoring of environmental conditions and facility operations of the facility, also in substantially real time and time correlated with the energy monitoring, is performed to further enhance the management and reporting of the energy performance of the facility. |
| US08103464B2 |
Test circuit, pattern generating apparatus, and pattern generating method
A test circuit connected between a test target circuit and a plurality of external terminals includes N first holding circuits to hold respectively N unit patterns produced by dividing an internal signal pattern to be input to or output from the test target circuit by N, where N is a natural number of two or greater, and a control circuit to make the internal signal pattern held in the N first holding circuits be changed selectively on a unit pattern basis based on a value of an identification signal assigned to each of the unit patterns beforehand, or to make the internal signal pattern held in the N first holding circuits be output selectively on a unit pattern basis based on the values of the identification signal. |
| US08103462B2 |
Oil consumption monitoring for aircraft engine
A system and method for accurately calculating the oil quantity and oil consumption rate of an aircraft engine detects the level of oil in an oil tank, calculates the oil quantity in the oil tank by compensating for the acceleration of the aircraft, as well as changes in the pitch, yaw and roll of the aircraft. The oil consumption rate of the aircraft is also calculated by calculating the oil quantity at different times, and dividing the difference in oil quantity by the difference in times. The percentage change in oil consumption of the aircraft engine is also calculated. The oil quantity and oil consumption rate can be reported during and after the aircraft's flight. |
| US08103459B2 |
Safety clothing
Safety clothing (1) for persons in dangerous situations is provided including at least one device (3) for generating light and/or at least one device for generating sound and/or at least one mechanical device for generating a warning stimulus, which is perceptible by the person, an interface (5) for generating data or signals with a gas-measuring device (12) and a power supply device (9) for supplying the at least one device (3) and/or the interface with power. The features are in functional connection with one another, for optically and/or acoustically and/or mechanically warning the person when at least one limit value of a harmful gas is exceeded or in case of at least one implausible measured value of the air detected by the gas-measuring device (12). |
| US08103453B2 |
Method of seismic data interpolation by projection on convex sets
According to a preferred aspect of the instant invention, there is provided herein a system and method for Interpolation of seismic data with a POCS (projection onto convex sets) algorithm that can produce high quality interpolation results, at a reduced computational cost. In particular, optimizing the threshold calculations, allowing for aliased data, allowing the algorithm to skip unneeded Fourier transforms, and parallelization makes the method more practical and robust. Robust interpolation of aliased data may be done by limiting the calculations of the beginning iterations to the lowest temporal and spatial frequencies included in the data, then gradually allowing higher temporal and spatial frequencies into the following iterations. |
| US08103452B2 |
Correction method for processing seismic traces
This invention relates to a method for processing seismic data comprising a collection of seismic traces with different offsets, comprising the steps of: a) breaking up one or several first trace(s) of the collection of seismic traces into a series of trace segment's according to a predetermined segmentation interval; b) defining a series of expansion coefficients, each expansion coefficient being associated with a segment of the first trace or traces; c) applying the associated expansion coefficient to each segment of the first trace or traces; d) comparing the first trace or traces thus expanded with a second trace from the collection of seismic traces to evaluate their similarity; e) repeating steps b), and d) with a new series of expansion coefficients, f) determining an optimum series of expansion coefficients that maximizes the similarity between the first expanded trace and the second trace in order to obtain one or several corrected first trace(s). |
| US08103449B2 |
Configurable vehicular time to stop warning system
A method is provided for determining when to issue an alert warning to a driver of a vehicle relating to an upcoming stopping location in a road of travel. Wireless messages transmitted from a remote entity to the vehicle are received. The messages contain information such as position data and other data affecting stopping of the vehicle. GPS data relating to instantaneous vehicle position in the road of travel is retrieved. A travel time until the vehicle reaches the stopping location is determined. A determination is made whether the driver has initiated braking. An advance notice period is determined for issuing a warning to the driver to decelerate the vehicle comprising the travel time plus a predetermined reaction time plus a selectable driver configured increment. A sensory warning to the driver of the vehicle is actuated if the advance notice period is less than the travel time and the driver has not initiated braking. |
| US08103447B2 |
Map displaying device
A map displaying device for displaying an accessible range in an arbitrary display form determined in accordance with the scale of a displayed map and/or with the running state of a vehicle is provided. The map displaying device includes: a display unit for displaying map information stored in a map database; a search unit for calculating travel time information regarding a travel time to an arbitrary point accessible from a reference point; and a time information drawing unit for displaying the travel time information in a superimposed manner on the display unit by varying a display form in accordance with the scale of a map and/or with the running state of a user's vehicle. |
| US08103445B2 |
Dynamic map rendering as a function of a user parameter
Provided is a single repository for capturing, connecting, sharing, and visualizing information based on a geographic location, for example. Detailed information can be dynamically rendered as a function of a user parameter, which can include a user demographic, a user profile, and a user preference information. Map information and advertisements displayed in conjunction with the map information can be dynamically rendered as a function of a user advertising preference. If a user prefers one product over another product, a first advertisement for the less preferred product can be replaced with a second advertisement for the preferred product. |
| US08103444B2 |
System and method for reducing communication load of apparatus for tracking moving object
Provided are a system and a method for reducing a communication load of an apparatus for tracking a moving object. The system includes: an estimated necessary time calculating unit receiving a current location and an arrival location of the moving object from a terminal included in the moving object, calculating estimated necessary time for the moving object to reach the arrival location, and transmitting the estimated necessary time to the terminal; and a communication path on-off controlling unit activating a communication path for the terminal to receive the estimated necessary time from the estimated necessary time calculating unit, and inactivating the communication path when the terminal receives the estimated necessary time through the communication path. |
| US08103443B2 |
System and method for delivering departure notifications
The present invention provides a system and method for determining the necessary departure time to allow for an on-time or desired arrival time at a particular location over a particular route based on the evaluation of historic, present, and predicted road conditions. |
| US08103442B2 |
Navigation device and its method
In a navigation device for providing a guide from an origin to a destination, a display section displays a guide image indicating the guide to the destination. A state acquisition section acquires a state outside a vehicle. A photographed guide generation section generates a photographed guide image, using a photographed image of a captured forward direction of the vehicle. A map guide generation section generates a map guide image, using map information. Based on the state outside the vehicle acquired by the state acquisition section, a state determination section determines which one of the photographed guide image and the map guide image is to be displayed by priority. Based on the determination made by the state determination section, a guide display control section allows the guide image including at least one of the photographed guide image and the map guide image to be displayed in the display section. |
| US08103441B2 |
Caching navigation content for intermittently connected devices
Selectively caching content related to routing data in a computing device. Prior to traversing a route, one or more access points to a network are identified. An expected level of access to a network (e.g., signal strength) along the route is determined. Portions of the route are selected based on the expected level of access. Content corresponding to at least one of the selected portions is received and stored for access during traversal of the route. For example, map images for areas expected to have poor network connectivity are cached prior to traversing the route to ensure that routing data is displayed to a user when in those areas. During transversal of the route, content is obtained and cached if a current level of access is less than a defined threshold. |
| US08103440B2 |
Navigation server, navigation apparatus, and navigation system
Provided is a navigation system which can contribute to guidance of a moving device such as a vehicle to a destination along a route appropriate from a viewpoint of energy economy. According to second information (VIN, Lj, OPj) on a second probe car Q2, an eco-index ECOj is evaluated for each combination of a link identifier Lj and a vehicle identifier VIN according a first function f1. According to the evaluation result, a second function f2 is set. According to support request information (VIN) on a support subject car Q, an eco-index ECOk is evaluated for an individual link identifier Lk according to the second function f2. The evaluation result or the road traffic information decided according to the evaluation result is recognized by a navigation apparatus (200) mounted on the support subject car Q. |
| US08103437B2 |
Traffic information distribution apparatus and traffic information distribution method
In a case where a CPU 11 provided in an information distribution center 3 has received a request command for requesting predicted traffic information transmitted from a navigation apparatus 2 as well as vehicle information such as a navigator identifying ID, coordinate data of a vehicle position, or coordinate data of a destination, the CPU 11 searches a basic route based on update-purpose map information 14A, and sets a distribution range serving as a transmission target of traffic information 16A, 16B, and 16C. Then, the CPU 11 generates the predicted traffic information 16C such as congestion prediction information corresponding to the distribution range, extracts the predicted traffic information 16C of each link having a difference in the generated predicted traffic information 16C and the current traffic information 16A, and distributes the extracted predicted traffic information 16C to the navigation apparatus 2 together with a link ID of a corresponding link. |
| US08103436B1 |
External adaptive control systems and methods
An external adaptive control system controls a traffic signal at a critical intersection that has a most conflicting volume of traffic among volumes of traffic at intersections in a traffic network. The external adaptive control system determines a plan identifying a guaranteed green light time and a minimum green duration and a period for the plan. The external adaptive control system determines, based on the plan, a non-linear schedule with one or more states corresponding to one or more individual phases with each state having a state start time and a state duration. Queues for individual traffic movements at the critical intersection also may be used to determine the non-linear schedule. The adaptive external control system controls the traffic signal according to the non-linear schedule. The external adaptive control system transmits its plan to one or more other external adaptive control systems for other intersections. The other external adaptive control systems determine other plans based on the plan from the external adaptive control system and an expected travel time between the critical intersection and the corresponding intersection. |
| US08103430B2 |
Method and device for the diagnosis of the cylinder-selective uneven distribution of a fuel-air mixture fed to the cylinders of an internal combustion engine
With an internal combustion engine (1) there is the problem that the fuel-air mixture directed into the combustion chamber of the cylinders (2) can be substantially influenced by manufacturing tolerances and ageing of the fuel injectors and uneven distribution is thus created. The uneven distribution is individually determined for each cylinder (2) depending on the operating mode of the internal combustion engine (1) (homogenous operation, stratified operation), wherein either the exhaust gas is analyzed and a corresponding emission value is determined therefrom or that a value is individually determined for each cylinder (2) for the operational roughness of the internal combustion engine (1). These values are compared with a limit value predetermined for the internal combustion engine (1) and upon exceeding of the predetermined limit value a fault entry in a fault memory (9) is made for the cylinder (2) concerned. |
| US08103422B2 |
Method for the anticipated ascertainment of a bend on a portion of road, and associated system
A system and method for the anticipated detection of a bend on a portion of road taken by a motor vehicle comprising the following steps: establishing, by means of a first system, called as the navigation system, a first set of information on the bend in question, the first set of information being associated with a first confidence index; establishing, by means of a second system, called as the image processing system, a second set of information on the bend in question, the second set of information being associated with a second confidence index; and establishing, from the first set of information and the second set of information and by taking into account the first confidence index and the second confidence index, a third set of information on the bend in question. |
| US08103419B2 |
Driving force transmission device
A driving force transmission device includes a transfer torque command value calculation section which calculates a transfer torque command value indicating a command value of the transfer torque between two members based on a running state of the vehicle, an energy calculation section which calculates an energy value obtained by multiplying the transfer torque between the two members by a differential rotation rate between the two members at every predetermined sampling time, an energy accumulated value calculation section which calculates an energy accumulated value of accumulating the energy value calculated at every the predetermined sampling time, a map storage section which stores previously a map defining a relationship between the energy accumulated value and a correction torque, and a correction section which acquires the correction torque by applying the energy accumulated value to the map and corrects the transfer torque command value based on the acquired correction torque. |
| US08103413B2 |
Communications network of passenger protection system
An electronic control unit charges capacitors of sensors to produce idle phase waveforms having different waveform parameters assigned to the sensors, and transmits nothing between the signal phase time periods. Each sensor detects the idle phase waveform parameter of the capacitor. The sensor responds to the ECU during the signal phase time period, if the detected parameter corresponds to predetermined waveform parameter. |
| US08103410B2 |
Steering guide device and steering guide method
A steering detecting section (11) detects steering angle in the steering operation of a vehicle driver performed for a steering (10) and a control section (12) controls rotational movement of a visual information display (13) based on the detected steering angle. A rotational angle is set while the value for steering angle in the right direction being differentiated from the value for steering angle in the left direction with regard to the same steering angle in the right and left different directions, thus guiding the vehicle driver to correct the difference between the right and left steering speeds in the steering operation. |
| US08103409B2 |
Vehicle height control apparatus using data communication between braking controller and suspension controller and control method thereof
A vehicle height control apparatus includes a suspension controller for controlling vehicle height, a lateral acceleration sensor, a braking controller determining a road surface condition on the basis of a difference between a lateral acceleration measured by the lateral acceleration sensor and a lateral acceleration calculated using a vehicle speed and a steering angle, the braking controller determining vehicle height information to be reflected in the suspension controller on the basis of the measured lateral acceleration and a roll angle presumed on the basis of the determined road surface condition and the measured lateral acceleration, and an interface unit performing data communication between the braking controller and the suspension controller. |
| US08103408B2 |
Suspension system for vehicle
In a system including four electromagnetic absorbers for respective four vehicle wheels, motor coils of two respective electromagnetic absorbers disposed corresponding to two diagonally located wheels are connected forming a closed loop including the coils. A generated damping force magnitude can be made different between an instance directions of respective movements of the diagonally located two wheels with respect to the vehicle body are the same, and an instance the directions are opposite each other. Each electromagnetic absorber includes a resistor cooperating with the corresponding coil forming a closed loop, and selectively establishes: a connected state in which one of the four coils and any of the other three coils are connected to form a closed loop; and a non-connected state in which the one of the four coils is not connected to any other coil. An appropriate vibration suppressing action is exhibited with respect to a coupled motion. |
| US08103403B2 |
Vehicular memory management apparatus
When a non-volatile memory such as an EEPROM has a trouble code storage area and a status information area, status information is stored in the status information area after completion of storage of a trouble code in the trouble code storage area. Even when storage of the trouble code in a second storage area is interrupted due to a power fault with a result of three area discrepancy, the storage of the trouble code in the storage area is determined as not complete based on the status information, thereby leading to an appropriate data recovery of the trouble code in the trouble code storage area for an improvement of storage reliability of a vehicular memory management apparatus. |
| US08103398B2 |
Unmanned aerial vehicle control systems
Unmanned aerial vehicle control systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method of controlling an unmanned aerial vehicle includes transmitting an indication of a take-off or landing location to the unmanned aerial vehicle. The unmanned aerial vehicle is launched. A control mode of the unmanned aerial vehicle is switched from an autonomous mode to a manual mode. The control mode of the unmanned aerial vehicle is switched from the manual mode to another autonomous mode, and the unmanned aerial vehicle is landed at the landing location. |
| US08103397B2 |
Method for optimizing powertrain efficiency for a vehicle
A vehicle powertrain includes an engine, an electric machine operable to output torque to at least one vehicle wheel, and an electric power source operable to provide electric power to the electric machine. A method for optimizing powertrain efficiency includes generating a plurality of three-dimensional maps of optimized engine speeds for combinations of vehicle power and vehicle speed at a plurality of predetermined powers of the electrical power source. Each of the maps corresponds to one of the predetermined powers of the electrical power source. The maps are used to determine an optimized engine speed for a given power of the electrical power source, a given vehicle power and a given vehicle speed. |
| US08103392B2 |
Developments in or relating to system prognostics
A method of mitigating the system-level effect of a fault detected in a vehicle system during a vehicle mission, the method comprising: using a processor to automatically prognose the system-level effect of said fault in terms of the residual capability of the vehicle system during the remainder of the mission, on the basis of predetermined stored data; using a processor to automatically generate a corresponding set of alternative reversionary or investigative action plans for mitigating said system-level effect during the remainder of the vehicle mission, on the basis of said prognosis; submitting the set of alternative reversionary action plans to a decision-making authority for determination by the decision-making authority of a preferred one of the reversionary action plans suitable for achieving a mission objective; and using a control unit, operably connected to the vehicle system, to implement the preferred reversionary action plan in accordance with said determination. |
| US08103389B2 |
Modular energy control system
A wireless base unit communicates with one or more wireless load manager units to receive power measurements for one or more loads connected to the wireless load manager. In response to dynamic variables, such as the changing price of electricity, the wireless base unit transmits commands to the wireless load manager to shut off or reduce power consumed by the one or more loads. In one variation, a wireless adapter also receives commands from the wireless base unit and converts the commands into a vendor-specific format used to control other devices such as a photovoltaic (PV) inverter. |
| US08103388B2 |
System for prediction and communication of environmentally induced power useage limitation
Disclosed are a power management system and associated method that not only initiate a “greenout” to avoid the negative impact of high loads (i.e., to avoid high power cost, negative environmental impact, brownouts, and ultimately blackouts), but can also predict the initiation of such a “greenout”. Predicting the initiation of a “greenout” and communicating the prediction to one or more of the various electronic devices connected to the power grid allows the electronic device(s) to take preparatory action to avoid and/or limit any negative impact that may be caused by the “greenout”. |
| US08103385B2 |
Optimizing product drying through parallel lines of centrifuges and dryer process units
The present invention provides novel techniques for controlling flow rates through parallel distribution paths of centrifuges and dryers using model predictive control. In particular, the present techniques are presented in the context of biofuel production, wherein control of whole stillage flow rates through parallel distribution paths of centrifuges and dryers may be optimized. However, the present techniques may also be applied to other suitable applications, such as the production of agricultural products, where parallel distribution paths of centrifuges and dryers may be used to separate solids from liquids as well as to remove water from the solids and liquids. |
| US08103381B2 |
Laser processing robot control system, control method and control program medium
A laser processing robot control system is provided with a robot, a laser beam scanning device and a robot controlling apparatus. The laser beam scanning device is movable in a three-dimensional direction with respect to the robot to scan a laser beam on a workpiece. This system selectively positions the robot and the laser beam scanning device to a prescribed position, and controls the laser beam scanning device to scan the laser beam at a processing spot in a scan pattern based on a detected posture of the robot and the scan pattern retrieved from the robot controlling apparatus. The teaching operations for positioning the robot and the laser beam scanning device to the prescribed position are performed independently of the teaching operations for controlling the scanning of the laser beam at the processing spot in the scan pattern. |
| US08103379B2 |
Medication cabinetry
An exemplary embodiment includes a cabinet having at least one drawer with selectable access for storing items, such as medications. A slidable cover with a first opening allows for closure and/or access to items in an interior of the drawer. The cabinet further includes an actuator coupled to the cover and a controller coupled to the actuator to control movement of the first opening relative to the drawer interior in response to signals generated from a user interface. |
| US08103375B2 |
Fillet machining system
A method for finishing a part having excess material includes generating one or more surfaces on a model of the part to be machined, creating a machining tool path drive geometry, using the machine tool path drive geometry and one or more surfaces on the model to be machined to generate machining tool paths on the surfaces; and running tool paths on the part in a fixture. |
| US08103372B2 |
System and method for installing a device
A technique is provided for installing a device in which a part of the device and the location of the part are automatically determined. An installer is notified of the part and its location for installation. Routines implementing some or all of the technique may be provided on a computer-readable medium. A method is also provided for locating a part to be installed using a project manager application. An installer retrieves the part from the location and installs the part. In one embodiment, the present techniques are implemented using an installation system including a processor-based system and a locator system. The processor-based system is configured to indicate a location of a part to be installed while the locator system is configured to provide the location to the processor-based system. |
| US08103371B2 |
Method of retrieving audio data via coded medium
A method of retrieving audio data using a coded medium is provided in which first and second coded data printed on the coded medium is sensed using an image sensor, the first coded data being printed in a linear pattern and encoding a medium identifier linked to the audio data and the second coded data being printed in a two-dimensional pattern and encoding the medium identifier and data on a two-dimensional coordinate grid, the medium identifier is determined from the sensed first and second coded data using a processor in communication with the image sensor, and the audio data is retrieved using the determined medium identifier and the processor. |
| US08103370B2 |
In-vehicle audio device and method for performing imaging and transmission of information in in-vehicle audio device
An in-vehicle audio device that can be connected to a portable audio device may include a display generating unit operative to generate transmission image data in a format that can be displayed in the portable audio device from tune information data corresponding to audio data read from the portable audio device when the portable audio device is connected to the in-vehicle audio device, and a communication unit operative to send the transmission image data generated by the display generating unit to the portable audio device when the portable audio device is connected to the in-vehicle audio device. |
| US08103368B2 |
Information processing system using nucleotide sequence-related information
A system for processing information for providing semantic information and/or information associated with the semantic information useful for each individual organism through effective utilization of differences in nucleotide sequence-related information among individual organisms is constructed. The method for processing information on a nucleotide sequence comprises: (a) receiving request information for an object and/or service; (b) obtaining positional information in accordance with the request information from a memory having positional information representing a position in a nucleotide sequence memorized therein; and (c) obtaining nucleotide sequence-related information corresponding to the positional information obtained in (b) above, and obtaining semantic information implied by the nucleotide sequence-related information and/or information associated with the semantic information. |
| US08103362B2 |
Cochlear electrode array
An implantable tissue-stimulating prosthesis such as a cochlear implant system comprising an elongate carrier member having a distal end, a proximal end, and at least one electrode positioned thereon; at least one electrical conductor extending from one or more of the at least one electrode; a lead extending from the carrier member and enclosing the at least one electrical conductor; and a holding member constructed and arranged to radially extend outwardly from the surface of the carrier member to facilitate grasping of the holding member during implantation of the carrier member in a patient. |
| US08103360B2 |
Medical lead coil conductor with spacer element
Medical electrical leads equipped with spacer elements and configured for use during medical procedures such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are disclosed. An illustrative medical electrical lead includes a proximal connector, an insulated lead body including at least one electrode, a helically coiled conductor wire, and a helically coiled spacer element interstitially disposed between adjacent turns of the conductor wire. |
| US08103355B2 |
Method and device for minimally invasive skin and fat treatment
A RF electrode for use in a device for thermal fat destruction and skin tightening is provided. The RF electrode comprises a handle, a cannula shaft that extends from the handle and in turn comprises a dielectric material. The shaft is insertable inside a body at a treatment area. The shaft also comprises an electrode tip that is positioned on the cannula at a location distal to the handle. The electrode tip comprises a RF conductive material. A device for thermal fat destruction and skin tightening and method therefore are also provided. |
| US08103354B2 |
Systems and methods for determining a threshold current level required to evoke a stapedial muscle reflex
Exemplary cochlear implant systems include an implantable cochlear stimulator configured to be implanted within a patient and generate a stimulation current having an adjustable current level, one or more electrodes communicatively coupled to the stimulator and configured to apply the stimulation current to one or more locations within an ear of the patient, and a probe configured to acquire sound data used to derive an acoustic reflectance of the ear. The implantable cochlear stimulator is configured to adjust the current level of the stimulation current until a change in the acoustic reflectance above a threshold is detected. |
| US08103353B1 |
Digitally controlled RF amplifier with wide dynamic range output
A push-pull amplifier efficiency provides a 4:1 (12 dB) course adjustment of power output by using a single digital control input. The amplifier is provided with an input voltage (VDD) having sixteen steps ranging from 1.25 volts to 3.00 volts. Based on the digital control, an integrated circuit switches between a high power mode and a low power mode. In the low power mode, the output voltage is equivalent to the input voltage. In the high power mode, the amplifier provides an output of twice the input voltage (or four times the power). |
| US08103347B2 |
Implantable pulse generator comprising MRI current limiting windings in header structure
In one embodiment, a pulse generator for generating electrical stimulation for delivery to a patient, comprises: a hermetically sealed housing containing pulse generating circuitry; a header coupled to the housing for receiving one or more stimulation leads, wherein feedthrough wires are provided to conduct electrical pulses from the pulse generating circuitry to the header; the header comprising a plurality of connectors for electrically connecting to each terminal of the one or more stimulation leads, wherein an inductive winding is disposed around or adjacent to each of the connector structures and is electrically connected between the respective connector structure and a corresponding feedthrough wire to limit MRI induced heating of a respective electrode of the one or more stimulation leads. |
| US08103345B2 |
Cardiac pacing using adjustable atrio-ventricular delays
A pacing system for providing optimal hemodynamic cardiac function for parameters such as contractility (peak left ventricle pressure change during systole or LV+dp/dt), or stroke volume (aortic pulse pressure) using system for calculating atrio-ventricular delays for optimal timing of a ventricular pacing pulse. The system providing an option for near optimal pacing of multiple hemodynamic parameters. The system deriving the proper timing using electrical or mechanical events having a predictable relationship with an optimal ventricular pacing timing signal. |
| US08103344B2 |
Method, device, implantable stimulator and dual chamber cardiac therapy system
In a device and method in a dual chamber pacing system operating in an atrial synchronized mode, the cardiac stimulator is connectable to a lead arrangement arranged for sensing atrial electrical and mechanical activity. Upon detection of an atrial arrhythmia based on either of sensed atrial mechanical activity, atrial electrical activity, or a combination thereof, a mode switch from an atrial synchronized ventricle stimulating mode to a non-atrial synchronized mode is triggered. |
| US08103343B2 |
Automatic modulation of pacing timing intervals using beat to beat measures
Methods and systems to modulate timing intervals for pacing therapy are described. For each cardiac cycle, one or both of an atrioventricular (A-V) timing interval and an atrial (A-A) timing interval are modulated to oppose beat-to-beat ventricular (V-V) timing variability. Pacing therapy is delivered using the modulated timing intervals. |
| US08103339B2 |
Nerve stimulator with suction capability
A device for use in a removing fluids and debris from a surgical wound and for location of nerves adjacent to the surgical wound comprises a hollow electrically conductive tube which has a lumen extending from the distal end thereof to the proximal end thereof. Openings are located at the distal end of the tube for suction removal of the fluid and debris. A handle located at the proximal end of the tube is provided for attachment of a second tube which is connected to a vacuum source. Also extending from or located within the handle is attachment means for connecting the conductive tube to an electrical nerve stimulation module. An electrically conductive ball is attached at the distal end of the conductive tube and distal to the openings in the tube. The openings are sized so that at least one dimension thereof is less then the diameter of the lumen to prevent the lumen from becoming clogged with debris having a size greater then the diameter of the lumen which is removed from the surgical wound. |
| US08103331B2 |
Systems and methods for in-vivo optical imaging and measurement
Disclosed are methods and systems for: (i) sequentially illuminating a specimen with different spatial distributions of light, wherein each illumination causes an object embedded in the specimen to emit radiation in response to the light; (ii) for each different spatial distribution of illumination light, imaging the radiation emitted from the specimen from each of multiple sides of the specimen; and (iii) determining information about the object in the specimen based on the imaged radiation from each of the multiple sides for each of the different spatial distributions of illumination light. |
| US08103330B2 |
Sensor device for operation in a time-varying magnetic field and method
A sensor device, in particular a PET detector, for operation in the time-varying magnetic field of a magnetic resonance tomograph. In at least one embodiment, a sensor circuit is for generating a sensor signal, as well as an induction circuit in which a compensation signal is induced. These signals are combined with one another so as to compensate for noise signals in the sensor signal, which are induced in the sensor circuit by the time-varying magnetic field. The invention furthermore concerns a method of compensating for such noise signals. |
| US08103329B2 |
System and method for imaging based on ultrasonic tagging of light
A technique is provided for imaging based on localization of fluorescence in a medium. The technique includes illuminating the medium with an excitation light to excite fluorescence, scanning the medium at a plurality of locations via an ultrasonic beam, modulating a portion of the emitted light from the fluorescence via the ultrasonic beam at each of the plurality of locations, differentially detecting the modulated light at a boundary of the medium, and reconstructing an image from the detected signal. |
| US08103326B2 |
Device for monitoring fluid status
A technique for determining a patient's hematocrit by an electrical impedance measurement is described. An implantable device may be configured to utilize the technique in order to assess a cardiac patient's fluid status. In order to determine the hematocrit, the electrical impedance of the blood is measured and mapped by a mapping function to a corresponding hematocrit value. |
| US08103320B2 |
Portable terminal for providing visual and acoustic convenience and rotary type hinge apparatus therefor
A rotary-type hinge apparatus for a folder-type portable terminal is provided. For a portable terminal including a main body, a folder, a connection member for coupling the main body with the folder, and a hinge apparatus for rotatably coupling the connection member to the main body, a rotary-type hinge apparatus includes housing means mounted in the connection member, cam means including a center cam unit having at least three cam faces and a pair of side cam units for moving towards or away from the center cam unit according to the rotation of the folder in order to maintain close contact with selected cam faces, and adjusting the rotation angle of the folder by cam movement with the selected cam faces while being accommodated in the housing means, elastic bodies for causing the side cam units to closely contact the selected cam faces while being accommodated in the housing means, and an axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the center cam unit. Thus, the rotary-type hinge apparatus can allow users to conveniently view moving pictures. |
| US08103319B2 |
Electronic apparatus and wireless communication terminal
In an electronic apparatus which is equipped with a first transmission unit for performing a first communication by an electromagnetic wave; a second transmission unit for performing a second communication by an electromagnetic wave; and a reception unit for receiving a signal transmitted from the second transmission unit, the electronic apparatus is comprised of an antenna arranged by a radiator having a size which is smaller than 1/(2π) of a wavelength of a use electromagnetic wave, which is connected to at least the second transmission unit and the reception unit. |
| US08103317B2 |
Communication system and communication method
A communication system and a communication method for permitting a user of a cell-phone to receive data in a non-service area via an MFP. When the communication condition between a base station and a cell-phone becomes bad, the base station sends a map showing the current position of the cell-phone and the locations of nearby MFPs to the cell-phone. The user of the cell-phone selects one from the MFPs on the map and notifies the base station of the selected MFP. The base station sends an e-mail addressed to the cell-phone to the selected MFP, and the MFP stores the e-mail therein. The user of the cell-phone makes an access to the MFP by short-distance wireless communication to receive the e-mail. |
| US08103312B2 |
Method of using a quantized beamforming matrix from multiple codebook entries for multiple-antenna systems
A quantized multi-rank beamforming scheme for multiple-antenna systems such as a multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) wireless downlink. User equipment (UE) estimates downlink channel and transmit power and determines rank and power allocations. A quantized beamforming matrix is then determined by the UE using successive beamforming. The UE also determines channel quality indices (CQI) which it feeds-back to the wireless downlink base station along with the index of the quantized beamforming matrix. The base station uses the CQI information to select a UE for scheduling of downlink transmission and the quantized beamforming matrix index received from the selected UE to beamform the downlink transmission to the UE. Base station overhead and is minimized while providing near-optimal performance given the constraints of a limited feed-back channel and computational complexity of the UE. |
| US08103308B2 |
Task switching between two computing devices
A method is provided to enable the person to switch use of computing devices when working with records and/or documents. A method such as described may be implemented for an individual operating two (or more) computing devices that share and synchronize sets of records. One or more operations may be performed to update and maintain correspondence between the two sets of records. A switchover event may be detected, where the event corresponds to the individual using a second computing device while already using a first computing device. Once the switchover event is detected, state of use information may be received on the second computing device. This information indicates the state of use of one or more records on the first computing device. This information may be used to affect the state of use of corresponding records on the second computing device. In particular, the corresponding records on the second computing device may be placed in a state of use, or in a selected state for subsequent use. |
| US08103300B2 |
System and method for forming ad-hoc location-based multicast group
A system, method, and media for providing group communication services to an ad-hoc group formed according to vicinity with other users of communication devices in a communication system. Communicating among a communication group of a plurality of wireless communication devices in a communication system includes forming the communication group including transmitting an invitation including group membership location criteria to join the communication group to the plurality of wireless communication devices. The group membership location criteria is evaluated at each of the plurality of wireless communication devices receiving the invitation and the communication group is formed by ones of the plurality of wireless communication devices that meet the group membership location criteria. Permission to transmit to others of the plurality of wireless communication devices of the communication group is granted to one of the wireless communication devices of the communication group. |
| US08103281B2 |
Communication method, base station, and user terminal for a wireless communication network
The present invention comprises a method for communicating in a wireless communication network (1) comprising a number of cells (2.1, 2.2, 2.3) served by respective base stations (3). According to the proposed method, the following steps are performed: splitting up one at least one of a frequency bandwidth and a time interval allocated to the communication in at least a first part and a second part; using said first part for communication according to a first reuse scheme; and using said second part for communication according to a second reuse scheme. |
| US08103280B2 |
Wireless frequency re-use determination systems and methods
A method of measuring frequency interference between adjacent cell sites in a wireless telecommunications system. The method includes selecting a frequency in a cell site to be used as a beacon frequency. The method also includes activating the beacon frequency in the cell site and recording, at a telecommunications switch, a signal strength of the beacon frequency as measured by a first wireless device operating in the cell site and a signal strength of the beacon frequency as measured by a second wireless device operating in another cell site. The method further includes determining the frequency interference between the cell site and the other cell site based on the signal strengths. |
| US08103274B2 |
System, method, and computer-readable medium for IP-femtocell provisioned radio access network
A system, method, and computer readable medium for provisioning radio access via a femtocell system that includes integrated BTS and BSC functions are provided. The femtocell system is coupled with a packet switched backhaul and provides an IP-accessible radio access network. The femtocell system includes a session initiation protocol adapter that supports a SIP client pool and provides conversion of call set-up functions to SIP client set-up functions for provisioning of radio access to a user equipment. The user equipment may have a session initiation protocol client associated with the user equipment. The session initiation protocol client is hosted and registered with a registrar service by the femtocell system. Accordingly, telecommunication services may be directed to and from the user equipment over the packet-switched backhaul to the user equipment via the femtocell system. |
| US08103273B2 |
Cell search device of cellular system using OFDMA scheme and method thereof
A cell search device using an appropriate preamble for a downlink of a cellular system using an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing access (OFDMA) scheme and a method thereof is disclosed. The cell search device for a terminal of a cellular system using an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing access scheme includes when the terminal receives a preamble symbol from a base station, a PN code and phase delay estimating unit for generating a code with the received preamble symbol and a combination of a PN code and a Walsh code, calculating a correlation value therebetween using a differential demodulation for the codes to detect the PN code, a plurality of Walsh codes, and an error of a time delay, and estimating a component of a phase delay for the time delay; and a Walsh code estimating unit for minimizing the influence of the time error using the phase delay and the PN code information obtained by the differential demodulation of the PN code and phase delay estimating unit and estimating a Walsh code for the corresponding cell by synchronization demodulation. |
| US08103266B2 |
Apparatus and methods for managing battery performance of a wireless device
Apparatus, methods, and programs that determine and manage battery performance characteristics of a wireless device. Embodiments include a wireless device having a computer platform with a processing engine operable to generate a plurality of battery performance data associated with activities on the wireless device. The wireless device further includes a battery performance module operable, based on a received battery performance configuration, to collect selected ones of the plurality of battery performance data. The embodiments may also include an apparatus operable to generate the battery performance configuration, and operable to receive the collected battery performance data and to generate a performance report characterizing the battery performance of the wireless device. Further, embodiments of the apparatus may also generate and transmit to the wireless device a new device operational configuration, based on the collected battery performance data, effective to change the battery performance of the wireless device. |
| US08103264B2 |
Open update framework for mobile handsets capable of processing packages based on mime-types
Disclosed herein is a mobile handset, part of an open update framework, that uses a mime-type to determine if an update package received is appropriate for an update activity, or is currently supported. In addition, it uses the mime-type to determine where the downloaded update package needs to be stored in non-volatile memory, such as Flash. It also uses the mime-type to invoke an appropriate firmware, software or configuration update agent. |
| US08103261B2 |
Secure valet telephone system apparatus and method
The Invention is an apparatus and method of providing a valet telephone service. A dedicated wireless telephone is provided to a subscriber as a benefit of subscription. The dedicated wireless telephone will place calls only to and receive calls only from a service provider central computer. Incoming and outgoing calls to or from subscriber over said dedicated wireless telephone are screened or completed by an operator. Outgoing calls are completed by the operator to private contacts at locations ranked by time of day and day of the week. Incoming calls to subscriber are connected to subscriber at locations ranked by time of day and day of the week. Calls to subscriber outside telephone numbers are forwarded permanently to the central computer and screened by the operator. |
| US08103257B2 |
Data transmission method and system
A data transmission method and system. The method includes transmitting by a first wireless communication device to a second wireless communication device, first voice data associated with a first user. The first wireless communication device receives from the second wireless communication device, a verbal request for receiving text data. The first wireless communication device retrieves the text data. The first wireless communication device generates a transaction data object comprising the text data and a command for executing an executable program for performing an action with respect to the text data on the second wireless communication device. The first wireless communication device simultaneously transmits second voice data and the transaction data object to the second wireless communication device. |
| US08103256B2 |
Method and system for routing calls to an advisor from mobile customers within a mobile vehicle communications system
A method is disclosed for enhancing call center services. The method comprises: receiving at the call center a call from a user; analyzing a phone number associated with the call, a location of a vehicle associated with the call, a current request of the user, a previous request of the user, and a time period between the previous request and the current request; presenting a list of menu options to the user based on the analysis; and routing the call to an advisor based on a received user selected menu option. In addition, a system is disclosed for enhancing call center services. |
| US08103251B2 |
System and method for managing information of a communication device
A system and method for managing information of a communication device include creating a user account, and allocating storage space to store an account profile of a user of the communication device and a contact list. The system and method further include determining if the account profile of the user has been updated, designating at least one contact in the contact list to receive the updated account profile, and sending the updated account profile of the user to the designated contact. |
| US08103248B2 |
Method and arrangement for operating mobile communication terminals
A method and arrangement for operating mobile communication terminals in a radio network with at least one base station, providing a first radio coverage area, and at least one mobile communication terminal in which at least one locally limited area of activity within the first radio coverage area is communicated to the radio network are provided. The mobile communication terminal's entry into the area of activity is detected. In addition, when entry has been detected, a first message from the radio network prompts the mobile communication terminal to transmit ascertained position finding information using a second message and the radio network initiates detection of the second message with the position-finding information. In addition, in the absence of the second message, the mobile communication terminal is manipulated by the base station such that at least some of the communication links are suppressed within the area of activity, with receipt of the second message in the communication terminal at least partially allowing communication links within the area of activity on the basis of identity information identifying the user of the communication terminal. |
| US08103247B2 |
Automated secure pairing for wireless devices
Systems, methods, and/or techniques (“tools”) are described herein that relate to automated secure pairing for devices, and that relate to parallel downloads of content using devices. The tools for pairing the devices may perform authentication protocols that are based on addresses and on keys. The address-based authentication protocol may operate on address book entries maintained by the devices. The key-based authentication protocol may operate using a key exchange between the devices. |
| US08103245B2 |
Systems and methods for session records correlation
A billing mediation system for use within a communications network that correlates session records pertaining to usage of network resources is disclosed. The billing mediation system includes a record receiver, a record correlator, a look ahead cache, a set of buffers, and a session records database. The set of buffers includes a single segment insert buffer, a multi segment insert buffer, a multi segment update buffer and a billing finalization update buffer. A method for correlating session records is also provided. The method includes receiving a session record, placing the session record into a segment buffer based on the type of record, and updating a look ahead cache including providing a timestamp for the last update for a session. The transfer of correlated session records to a billing system is based on whether records for a session have been received based on session tracking within the look ahead cache. |
| US08103242B2 |
E911 call blocking for non-initialized wireless telephones
Calls from a phone identified as being a source of harassing or other undesirable phone calls are blocked at a mobile positioning center (MPC). Upon request by the PSAP, a call record detail can be obtained from the MPC revealing a simulated “callback phone number” as well as a unique number identifier of the phone, such as an ESN or MEID. The MPC then intercepts all future incoming calls from phones with that unique identifier number and routes them to a recording that advises the harasser that the phone has been identified as a harasser and is now blocked. The recording can also advise the caller how to restore service. In a preferred embodiment, the MPC sets a timer to automatically restore service after a designated length of time. |
| US08103240B2 |
Communication system and mobile wireless communication device
A communication system of the present invention includes a mobile phone 100 and an access point. The mobile phone 100 comprises an input receiving unit 110 operable to receive a predetermined emergency phone number, and a control unit 160 operable to, if the input receiving unit 110 receives the predetermined emergency number, select one of access points which can be recognized by signals obtained by a wireless communicating unit 150 from the access points around the mobile phone 100, and cause the wireless communicating unit 150 to transmit an emergency connection request including a call destination phone number to the selected access point. The access point comprises a wireless communicating unit 220 operable to receive the emergency connection request from the mobile phone 100, and a control unit 240 operable to, if the wireless communicating unit 220 receives the emergency connection request, connect the mobile phone 100 to an IP network via an IP network communicating unit 230, without performing authentication of the mobile phone 100. |
| US08103239B2 |
Emergency notification system and emergency notification device
An emergency notification uses a normal cellular telephone terminal instead of a dedicated terminal without requiring communication using a voice. An emergency notification system has a mobile communication network including a cellular telephone terminal, an emergency notification device for receiving an emergency notification, a communication line connecting the mobile communication network and the emergency notification device, and the cellular telephone terminal including display means for displaying a menu for identifying kind of emergency notification on a display screen and means for performing the emergency notification in response to selection of one of items in the menu by a user. |
| US08103238B2 |
Energy-efficient operation of a communication network
A method for wireless communication between a base station and a number of devices is provided, with the devices in each case having a limited energy supply. To establish a connection, the base station sends a sequence of synchronization signals on at least one of its communication channels. The devices in each case listen on their parameterized or unparameterized communication channel within a listening period, which is repeated with a repetition frequency that can be set. Outside the listening period, the device in question is set to an energy-saving mode. The length of the listening period, the repetition frequency and the energy consumption in the energy saving mode are synchronized with each other in such a way that the energy consumption up to the connection setup averaged over time does not exceed the energy consumption during normal operation of the device. |
| US08103237B2 |
Method of communication between a source mobile set without network coverage and a target set
A communication procedure between a source mobile equipment which at a given time has no mobile network coverage, and a target equipment, comprising: establishing communication between the source mobile equipment and the target equipment in stages via intermediary equipment; the source equipment initiating a search of the intermediary equipment for sending a message to the target equipment; if the search process does not result in a first intermediary, the source equipment initiates the search process again; the intermediary equipment receive the message and if none of them is the target, those having a retransmitter profile initiate a search process for second intermediary equipment for sending said the message, until the message is received by the target equipment. |
| US08103230B2 |
Broadcasting receiver, broadcasting identification method, broadcasting identification program, and recording medium therefor
While sequentially changing the selected channel, a digital broadcast judgment part collects level value VW of a signal extracted on a wide band, a bandwidth suitable for reproduction of an analog broadcast, reported from a reproduction processing unit as the level detection result, and a signal level value VN extracted on a narrow bandwidth of about ΔF for which, in an IBOC system, it is likely that neither a digital nor analog broadcast component is present. This digital broadcast judgment part searches for a channel upon which hybrid broadcasting performed by sequentially judging, for three successive channels, whether the first and second adjacent channel conditions, and a central channel condition are satisfied, only on the basis of the signal level values VW and VN. Accordingly, when receiving a radio broadcast according to the IBOC system, it is possible to decide promptly whether or not a digital broadcast is included therein. |
| US08103227B2 |
Broadcast receiving system and method for processing broadcast signals
A broadcast receiving system capable of receiving mobile broadcast data and a method for processing broadcast signals are disclosed. The broadcast receiving system includes a first receiving unit, a second receiving unit, a known sequence detector, a equalizer, and a display unit. The first receiving unit receives a first broadcast signal including first mobile broadcast service data and first main broadcast service data. The second receiving unit receives a second broadcast signal including second mobile broadcast service data and second main broadcast service data. The known sequence detector detects at least one of known data included in the received first broadcast signal and known data included in the received second broadcast signal. The channel equalizer uses the detected known data, thereby channel-equalizing the received first and second mobile broadcast service data corresponding to the detected known data. The display unit provides any one of first video data and second video data included in the channel-equalized first and second mobile broadcast service data to a user. |
| US08103225B2 |
Multiport amplifiers in communications satellites
Feedback loops are used within a Multiport Amplifier (MPA) of a communications satellite to maintain phase and amplitude tracking and hence isolation and combining performance. at Ku and Ka-bands, for which there is increasing interest in MPA applications, and where wavelengths are short and maintenance of phase/amplitude tracking becomes highly challenging. Feedback loops are located at strategic points within the MPA Output Network (ONET) to detect tracking errors and provide compensation. Errors are detected through power measurements at “null points”, with zero power corresponding to accurate tracking. The feedback loops adjust the MPA phase/gains such that the levels at these points are maintained at zero. The scheme operates with a pilot signal for measurement of nulls, injected at one of the MPA inputs. |
| US08103218B2 |
Method and apparatus for scheduling transmissions in a wireless communication system
Machine-readable media, methods, apparatus and system for scheduling transmissions in a wireless communication system are described. In some embodiments, a base station may comprise a network interface device to receive and process a long-term signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) and a channel quality indicator (CQI) from each subscriber station of a plurality of subscriber stations; a reference signal to interference plus noise ratio determining logic to determine a reference signal to interference plus noise ratio (Ref_SINR) for the each subscriber station; and a target fairness factor determining logic to determine a target fairness factor (TFF) for the each subscriber station; a real fairness factor determining logic to determine a real fairness factor (RFF) for the each subscriber station; and a pseudo CQI calculating logic to calculate a pseudo CQI for the each subscriber station based at least in part on the CQI, SINR, Ref_SINR, TFF and RFF. |
| US08103212B1 |
Relay device deployer system
A relay device deployment system comprising: a deployer, a wireless relay device, a node radio, a deployment mechanism, and a processor. The deployer is configured to be mounted on a mobile platform and to deploy the relay device to a support surface. The relay device comprises dual rotatable antennas and operates as a node in an ad hoc telecommunications network. The node radio has dual antennas and is also configured to operate as a node in the network. The deployment mechanism is configured to deploy the relay device when the network strength drops below a threshold value as monitored by the processor. |
| US08103211B1 |
Carrier
The vehicle, such as airplane, which comprises the internal wireless communicating device and the external antenna device, wherein the passenger(s) in the vehicle may access network (e.g., the Internet) via the internal wireless communicating device and the external antenna device. |
| US08103208B2 |
Broadcast receiving system and method for processing broadcast signals
A broadcast receiving system capable of receiving mobile broadcast data and a method for processing broadcast signals are disclosed. The broadcast receiving system includes a receiving unit, a RS frame decoder, and a memory. The receiving unit receives a broadcast signal including mobile broadcast service data and main broadcast service data. The RS frame decoder performs CRC-decoding and RS-decoding on the RS frame, thereby correcting errors occurred in the corresponding mobile broadcast service data. The memory stores at least one of a traffic information, a POI (point of interesting), and a map information included in the error-corrected mobile broadcast service data. |
| US08103205B2 |
Imaging system and method with reduced thermal stress on a substrate
An imaging system including an image transfer structure configured to transfer marking material to a first side of a substrate; a tacker configured to fix the marking material to the substrate; a path controller; a substrate inverter; and a fuser. The path controller is configured to switch the substrate between a first path towards the fuser and a second path extending through the substrate inverter and returning to the image transfer structure. |
| US08103203B2 |
Fixing device and image forming apparatus
A fixing device that includes a first fixing unit including a first heating roller having a metallic roller and a resin layer formed on the metallic roller, and a first pressure roller coming into abutment with the first heating roller; and a second fixing unit having a second heating roller being configured to heat a transfer material heated by the first fixing unit and including a metallic roller, a elastic layer formed on the metallic roller, and a resin layer formed on the elastic layer, and a second pressure roller coming into abutment with the second heating roller is provided. |
| US08103198B2 |
Toner container
A toner container installed in an image forming apparatus includes a toner container main body having a predetermined length and in which toner is accommodated, a discharge port through which the toner is discharged from the toner container main body, a shutter which opens and closes the discharge port, a handle provided on the toner container main body, and a pressed portion provided on the toner container main body and which is pressed by the image forming apparatus to project the handle out from the image forming apparatus. |
| US08103197B2 |
Developing system and image forming apparatus incorporating same
A developing system includes a developing unit, a mixing container, a rotary feeder, an air pump, and an airflow regulator. The developing unit is configured to convert a latent image into visible form using a developer. The mixing container is separated from the developing unit and is configured to hold and mix part of the developer after use. The rotary feeder is configured to dispense the developer from the mixing container to a delivery path. The air pump is configured to supply compressed air to deliver the dispensed developer to the developing unit through the delivery path. The airflow regulator is located where the rotary feeder connects to the delivery path, and is configured to prevent the compressed air from flowing toward the rotary feeder from the delivery path. |
| US08103195B2 |
Toner agitating unit, toner hopper, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus
A toner agitating unit is located in a toner hopper that houses toner used for developing a latent image. The toner agitating unit includes a rotary shaft and an agitating member. The agitating member is a flat plate made of resin. The agitating member has a plurality of slits extending from an outer edge of the agitating member toward the rotary shaft. |
| US08103194B2 |
Ink development units for printers
An ink development unit is disclosed for liquid electro photography (LEP) printers or the like. An exemplary squeegee on PIP (photo imaging plate) (or “SOP”) ink development unit for a liquid electro photography (LEP) printer system includes an ink dispenser configured to dispense ink during a printing operation. A developer roller having a compliant surface is positioned in contact with a PIP during a printing operation. The developer roller directly receives the ink dispensed from the ink dispenser. The developer roller squeegees the ink dispensed from the ink dispenser into an ink layer with higher solids concentration for development onto an image area on the PIP. |
| US08103192B2 |
Constant velocity joint and image forming apparatus
Example embodiments relate to a constant velocity joint having an outer ring including an annular space with an open end, plural outer grooves axially extending in an outer wall of the annular space and being equally spaced from each other in a circumferential direction, and plural inner grooves axially extending in an inner wall of the annular space and facing the respective outer grooves, and a cage configured to hold balls that slide along the inner walls and the outer walls. The outer ring and/or the cage may be made of a synthetic resin. A drive force of one of the cage and the outer ring may be transmitted to the other one of the cage and the outer ring when part of the cage may be inserted in the annular space and the balls held by the cage may be engaged in the inner grooves and the outer grooves. |
| US08103189B2 |
Image forming apparatus having removable belt
A belt unit having a belt stretched by a plurality of rollers is removably mounted in an image forming apparatus. A pressure removing member moves a tension roller for applying tension to the belt from a first position to apply the tension to the belt to a second position to remove the tension from the belt. After the belt unit is positioned and mounted in the apparatus body by engaging the rollers with positioning portions in an apparatus body frame in a state in which the tension roller is moved to the second position by the pressure removing member, the tension is applied to the belt by moving the tension roller to the first position by the pressure removing member. |
| US08103186B2 |
Image forming apparatus
An image forming apparatus including an image forming section; an upper unit located over the image forming section with a space therebetween and slidable in a direction of from the front side to the rear side of the apparatus and the opposite direction; a sheet discharger configured to discharge a sheet bearing an image in the first or opposite direction; a sheet stacker receiving the sheet from the sheet discharger; a support arranged outside of both side ends of the sheet stacker in the first direction and slidably supporting the upper unit; and at least one of a release preventing member for preventing releasing of the upper unit from the support, and a covering member movable from a first position to a second position in conjunction with sliding of the upper unit and covering an opening formed at an end portion of the support when acquiring the first position. |
| US08103184B2 |
Image forming apparatus
When a number of print pages, a driving time or a toner adhering amount exceeds a cleaning trigger value during no transfer operation, a circumferential speed of a secondary transfer roller is changed with respect to a circumferential speed of an intermediate transfer belt so as to clean the secondary transfer roller. Particularly, a surface of the secondary transfer roller is totally cleaned when the circumferential speed of the secondary transfer roller is made relatively faster and then slower or vice versa than the circumferential speed of the intermediate transfer belt because the surface of the secondary transfer roller is elastically deformed in both upstream and downstream directions so that the residual toner on the uneven foam surface of the secondary transfer roller is extruded. |
| US08103181B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method of adjusting charge bias
An image forming apparatus includes an image carrier configured to carry an image and a charger to which a direct current voltage overlapped with an AC voltage is applied as a charging bias to charge the image carrier. The charger is positioned in contact or contactlessly with the image carrier. The AC voltage applied to the charger in an adjustment of the AC voltage is not less than twice a charging start voltage Vth at which the image carrier starts to be charged. |
| US08103176B2 |
Frequency offset compensating apparatus and method, and optical coherent receiver
The present invention relates to a frequency offset compensating apparatus and method, and an optical coherent receiver. The optical coherent receiver includes a front end processor and a frequency offset estimator, of which said front end processor converts an inputted optical signal into a base band digital electric signal, and said frequency offset estimator estimates a phase offset change introduced by a frequency offset in said base band digital electric signal; said frequency offset compensating apparatus comprises an M output integrator, for integrating the phase offset change introduced by the frequency offset to acquire M inverse numbers of the phase offset introduced by the frequency offset, where M is an integer greater than 1; a series-parallel converting device, for dividing said base band digital electric signal into M sub base band digital electric signals; M complex multipliers, for constructing the corresponding inverse numbers in the M inverse numbers to be complex numbers, and multiplying them with the corresponding sub base band digital electric signals in the M sub base band digital electric signals; and a parallel-series converting device, for converting the M sub base band digital electric signals multiplied by said complex multipliers into a base band electric signal. |
| US08103172B2 |
Distributable quantum relay architecture
A distributed quantum relay architecture is disclosed. In one embodiment of this architecture, time and wavelength division multiplexing are used to enable a laser pump pulse, already used to create an initial entangled photon pair, to be distributed to a remote relay site, on the same optical fiber as a photon from that initial pair. At that remote site, the pump pulse is amplified and used to locally create the second entangled photon pair that is required for quantum teleportation. This embodiment enables the placement of quantum repeater stations at remote locations without complicated dedicated channels to distribute the pump or electronics. In addition, as lasers are generally among the most expensive components, a significant cost savings is gained, in this embodiment, by using only one pump laser instead of two (or more) as in previous quantum teleportation efforts. |
| US08103169B2 |
VWS secure/non-secure bypass switch
Disclosed is a secure/non-secure bypass switch, which includes a secure mode signal path, and a non-secure mode signal path, wherein signals are routed through an encryption device connected in the secure mode signal path when no power is supplied to the switch, and the signals are routed through the non-secure path when power is supplied to the switch. |
| US08103164B2 |
High frequency noise measurement board
Optical test apparatus. A test apparatus for testing transmitter or receiver devices. The test apparatus includes a transmitter source configured to connect to an optical transmitter. A wide band, wide area optical detector is adapted to optically couple to the optical transmitter powered by the transmitter source. A filter is connected to the optical detector. The filter is configured to separate AC and DC portions of a signal received from the optical detector. A true RMS converter is connected to the filter. The filter is configured to convert an AC noise signal received from the filter to a function of an RMS value of the AC noise signal received from the optical detector. A data acquisition system is connected to the true RMS converter. The data acquisition system is configured to characterize noise characteristics of the transmitter source. |
| US08103162B2 |
Channel protection for multi-channel optical transmission system and method
An optoelectronic integrated apparatus, including a plurality of working optical source links, at least one spare optical source link, at least one spare data channel, and a protection control unit for detecting whether there is any working optical source link faulty. When detecting that a working optical source link is faulty, controlling a spare optical source link whose emission wavelength is the same as the faulty working optical source link to fulfill the functions of the faulty working optical source link and switching a data signal from the working data channel to a spare data channel. The spare optical source link is adapted to modulate the optical signal using the data signal from the spare data channel, and transmits the modulated optical signal. Reliability of the optoelectronic integrated apparatus is enhanced without increasing the maintenance cost. |
| US08103161B2 |
Method, device and system for group optical channel shared protection
The present invention discloses a method and system for group optical channel shared protection. In the invention, when a failure occurs, operations are performed on an optical wavelength group, and four actions are accomplished at the time of switching: switching the affected optical wavelength group on the working fiber to a backup fiber (Steer); switching the optical wavelength group whose destination node is the current node on the backup fiber to the working fiber (Copy); making the optical wavelength group whose destination node is not the current node on the backup fiber transparently pass through the current node (Pass Through); and blocking or stripping the backup wavelength group transferred on the backup fiber (Strip). In addition, the invention further discloses a plurality of node structures for realizing the above operations. |
| US08103155B2 |
Manually adjustable hair dryer mount for use with a hand-held hair dryer
A hands-free hair dryer mounting apparatus adapted for holding a hair dryer in a universal hair dryer holder assembly is disclosed. The apparatus includes a support bracket that is removably affixed to a wall mounting plate adapted for secure attachment to a wall or other surface. A universal hair dryer holder, adapted for receiving and holding any type, size, or style of handheld hair dryer, projects outward from the bracket. The hair dryer holder is connected to an adjustable arm which contains a vertical pivot connection that allows for manual angular adjustment and affixation of the hair dryer about a generally horizontal pivot axis. The adjustable arm also contains a horizontal pivot connection that allows for manual angular adjustment and affixation of the hair dryer about a generally vertical pivot axis. Angular adjustment in both the vertical and horizontal directions is accomplished by a spring biased interlocking joints. |
| US08103154B2 |
Hot air blower and system comprising a hot air blower and at least one coding unit
A hot air blower has at least one fan impeller and at least one electrical heating device. The hot air blower is designed to interact with a coding unit provided with coding. The hot air blower is releasably connected to the coding unit. The coding unit is designed to predefine at least one of heating power and hot air temperature of a heating device in the hot air blower on the basis of the coding. |
| US08103141B2 |
Coupling element for optical fiber cables
The present invention relates to a novel coupling composition that is used within optical fiber cables to protect optical fibers and to couple the optical fibers and the surrounding buffer tube casing. The present invention also relates to optical fiber cables that use the novel coupling composition. |
| US08103138B2 |
Tunable filter
A tunable filter is provided. The tunable filter comprises an input optical fiber for launching an optical signal into the tunable filter; a collimator disposed for collimating light transmitted from the input optical fiber; a grating disposed for dispersing the collimated light according to wavelength in a dispersion plane; a first reflector disposed for reflecting at least a portion of the dispersed light to a second reflector; a second reflector disposed for reflecting the dispersed light back to the grating; a third reflector disposed for reflecting the transmitted dispersed light from the grating back to the grating, wherein then the second reflector reflects the transmitted dispersed light to the first reflector, the first reflector reflects the transmitted dispersed light back to the grating, the collimator receives the transmitted dispersed light from the grating and substantially focusing it to a focal point; and an output optical fiber disposed at the focal point for receiving the focused light; wherein one of the reflectors is rotated to selectively reflect the dispersed light having a predetermined wavelength. |
| US08103135B2 |
Well bore sensing
A sensor system for use in a well bore includes a metal-clad fiber-optic cable, the fiber optic cable include one or more Bragg gratings, and each Bragg grating is configured such that a value or change in a physical parameter to be measured results in a measurable value or change in the Bragg grating. The sensor system is included in a tool moveable through a drill string. The Bragg gratings are subjected to a strain related to the well bore's pressure, such that the pressure can be determined from the characteristics of the Bragg grating. |
| US08103132B2 |
Fast key-in for machine-printed OCR-based systems
A method for correcting results of OCR or other scanned symbols. Initially scanning and performing OCR classification on a document. Clustering character/symbol classifications resulting from the OCR based on shapes. Creating super-symbols based on at least a first difference in the shapes of the clustered characters/symbols exceeding a first threshold. A carpet of super-symbols, emphasizing localized differences in similar symbols, is displayed for analysis testing. Depending on results of analysis testing, performing one of: (1) storing the clustered symbols when the carpet of super-symbols passes all of the analysis testing; (2) creating additional super-symbols based on at least a second difference in the shapes of the clustered symbols exceeding a second threshold and returning to analysis testing when the carpet of super-symbols passes most of the analysis testing; and (3) rejecting the clustered symbols when the carpet of super-symbols fails most of the analysis testing and manually keying-in the symbols. |
| US08103129B2 |
System(s), and method(s) for non-linear scaling of source pictures to a destination screen
Presented herein are system(s), and method(s) for non-linear scaling of source pictures to a destination screen. In one embodiment, there is presented a monitor for displaying a source picture. The monitor comprises a screen and a circuit. The screen comprises a plurality of columns, including at least one center column, a plurality of left columns, and a plurality of right columns. The circuit provides pixels for display at each of the plurality of columns of a source picture that are indicated by the phase accumulator. The phase accumulator is incremented by step values that are continuous with respect to the plurality of columns. |
| US08103128B2 |
Graphic object collision detection with axis-aligned bounding regions calculated from inclination angle
A video game device calculates an angle of an object 71, etc., with respect to a reference direction in a three-dimensional space. Then, the video game device defines a virtual cylindrical model for each of a plurality of objects so that a bottom surface of each cylindrical model is perpendicular to the reference direction. The video game device defines a plurality of cylindrical models for a predetermined object if the inclination of the predetermined object with respect to the reference direction is greater than a predetermined angle. Then, the video game device determines whether or not the defined cylindrical models have an overlap therebetween. Then, if two cylindrical models are determined to be overlapping with each other, the video game device gives a predetermined change to the two objects in response to the collision. |
| US08103125B2 |
Generating an amalgamated image including a static image and a dynamic image
In an embodiment, a request is received that includes a specification of a static location and a dynamic location. A static image is created that includes a map that represents an area centered around the static location. A dynamic image is created asynchronously from the creation of the static image. An amalgamated image is generated that includes the static image and the dynamic image, which is over a portion of the static image. In this way, spatial data may be drawn in a manner that increases performance. |
| US08103121B2 |
Systems and methods for determination of a camera imperfection for an image
Methods and systems for creating an image filter is described. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a first plurality of images captured by an at least one camera with a same setting as a first camera. The method further includes creating an averaged image from the plurality of captured images, wherein the averaged image comprises a measurement value of intensity for each pixel in the averaged image. The method also includes determining an image imperfection in the averaged image. The method further includes creating the image filter to reduce the image imperfection. |
| US08103120B2 |
Method and apparatus of local contrast enhancement
Methods and apparatuses of contrast enhancement on an image are disclosed. The method performs local shading of fine contrast variations in an image, with particular advantage in tone mapping applications. The amounts of shading are determined by the preferred degree of increased image contrast 810, including compensation for subsequent tone mapping, and the difference between a profile signal 803 and the image signal 801 conditional on the signal profile level being higher than the original image signal level, wherein avoiding boosting of brightness level to obtain contrast enhancement. The profile signal 803 is calculated by the weighted sum of the image signal and the absolute signal variation which is the absolute value of the variation between the brightness of two neighbor pixels. This amount of shading is reduced to zero when the profile signal 803 is lower than the original image signal 801 for avoiding the overshooting problem at sharp edges in an image. Uniform RGB scaling is applied to preserve original color tones. |
| US08103119B2 |
Image processing device, image processing method, image processing program product, and image-capturing device
An image processing device includes: a parameter calculation unit that obtains a plurality of values based on a plurality of different conversion parameters for a pixel in image data; a weighting unit that performs predetermined weighting on the plurality of values obtained by the parameter calculation unit; and a gradation correction unit that performs gradation correction of the image data based on a result of the weighting by the weighting unit. |
| US08103117B2 |
Image processing apparatus and image processing method employing recursive filtering
Recursive filtering that multiplies image data of a previous frame read out from a memory by a, multiplies image data of the present frame by (1−a), adds the resultants together, and stores the resultant of the addition in the memory is performed. Here, a is a coefficient in the range of 0 |
| US08103115B2 |
Information processing apparatus, method, and program
An information processing apparatus that compares an input image with a model image to identify the subject of the input image with the subject of the model image. The apparatus includes feature value extraction means for setting feature points, each of which is on an edge of the model image and provided to extract a model image feature value, which is the feature value of the model image, and extracting the model image feature value from each of a plurality of feature value extraction areas in the neighborhood of each of the feature points, and matching means for checking if an input image feature value, which is the feature value of the input image, at the point that is on an edge of the input image and corresponds to the feature point matches any of the plurality of model image feature values at the feature point. |
| US08103114B2 |
Image processing apparatus, method, storage medium, and program
A motion-vector detector determines the centroid of pixels on a reference frame that is identified with position information set in a database and associated with a feature address corresponding to a feature of a target pixel. The motion-vector detector detects, as a motion vector of the target pixel, a vector that has a starting point at a pixel on the reference frame which corresponds to the target pixel on a current frame and has an end point at the determined centroid. The present invention can be applied to an apparatus for generating a motion vector and allows prompt detection of a motion vector. |
| US08103112B2 |
Decoding method, decoding apparatus, storage medium in which decoding program is stored, and electronic camera
In a decoding method for decoding coded light ray information, coded first image information and coded second image information different from the first image information are decoded. The first image information and the second image information are obtained in taking a subject. The light ray information is generated based on the decoded first and second image information. Image information corresponding to a first focus value is generated and stored in a storage medium, based on the generated light ray information. An image is displayed based on the image information corresponding to the first focus value. Image information corresponding to a second focus value different from the first focus value is generated and stored in the storage medium, based on the generated light ray information. The image information corresponding to the second focus value is generated and stored, while the image is displayed or before the image is displayed. |
| US08103110B2 |
System and method for Bayesian text classification
A method for classifying text comprises receiving data containing text and parsing a plurality of tokens out of the text. A plurality of metatokens are generated for each token, wherein the metatokens comprise strings of text and groupings of strings of text. The method further comprises calculating a probability that the data falls into a certain category, using the tokens and metatokens. The probability is compared to a threshold value and the data is classified into the certain category if the probability is greater than the threshold value. |
| US08103106B2 |
Image processing method, image processing method program, recording medium recording image processing method program, and image processing apparatus
A method of processing a plurality of still images. The method includes the steps of: detecting an object photographed for each of the still images; arranging the object detected by the step of detecting an object with respect to the plurality of still images and detecting an object photographed by the plurality of still images; relating objects having a strong relationship out of the plurality of objects detected by the step of arranging the object; selecting a still image including at least one of the objects detected by the step of relating objects from the plurality of still images; and outputting the still image selected by the step of selecting a still-image. |
| US08103105B2 |
Object detection device, and object detection device for elevator
In an object detecting apparatus for detecting whether or not a detection object is present in a monitoring area by comparing a present image with a background image photographed when the detection target is not present in the monitoring area, a background contour line information extracting means extracts contour line information of an article photographed in the background image. An object detecting means extracts contour line information other than the contour lines of the background image from the present image. Also, the object detecting means detects whether or not the detection object is present in the monitoring area based upon such a fact as to whether or not the contour line information can be extracted from the present image. |
| US08103103B2 |
Multilevel bit-mapped image analysis method
The present invention discloses a multilevel method of bitmapped image analysis that comprises a whole image data representation via its components—objects of different levels of complexity—hierarchically connected therebetween by spatially-parametrical links. The said method comprises preliminarily generating a classifier of the objects that possibly may be present in the image consisting of one or more levels differing in complexity; parsing the image into objects; attaching each object to one of predetermined levels; establishing hierarchical links between objects of different levels; establishing links between objects within the same level; and performing an object feature analysis. The objects feature analysis comprises at least generating and examining a hypothesis about object features and correcting the object's features of the same and other levels in response to the hypothesis examination results. The step of object features analysis may also comprise execution of a recursive RX-cut within the same level. |
| US08103101B2 |
Region extraction system, region extraction method and program
A region extraction system includes a temporary region extractor for temporarily extracting a to-be-extracted region from measured data with a region growing technique, an initial position determiner for determining an initial position of a standard model for the to-be-extracted region using the to-be-extracted region temporarily extracted, and a to-be-extracted region extractor for extracting the to-be-extracted region from the measured data with a model fitting technique using the standard model. |
| US08103098B2 |
Method for generating a non-graphical digital image from an original digital image
A method for generating a non-graphical digital image from an original digital image includes the following steps: performing edge detection to generate a third digital image, performing screen dot detection to detect the photo regions in the original digital image, detecting color regions in the original digital image, removing the photo regions and the color regions from the third digital image to generate the non-graphical digital image. |
| US08103097B2 |
Colour invariant image representation method and apparatus
A color image comprises color values in each of one or more color channels for each of a plurality of points, or pixels, within the image. The image is represented by rank ordering the values in the or each color channel. The image representation generated in this way is usable for automated-vision or computer-vision tasks, for example. |
| US08103096B2 |
System and method for color space conversion with reduced artifacts
A method and system convert an original digital image being represented by a first color space to a digital image being represented by a second color space by transforming the original image data represented by a first color space to second image data being represented by a second color space, the transformation causing the colors of the transformed image data to be substantially encodable in the second color space. The second image data represented by the second color space is transformed to third image data represented by the first color space, the transformation causing the colors of the transformed image data to be substantially encodable in the first color space. Distortions in the third image data represented by the first color space are corrected to form corrected image data represented by the first color space, and the corrected image data represented by the first color space is transformed to fourth image data represented by the second color space. |
| US08103095B2 |
Information processing apparatus and information processing method
An information processing apparatus that suppresses occurrences of color conversions not intended by the user. Information on affected regions for individual color conversion processes applied to an image is stored in the information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus determines whether or not the affected region of a color conversion process that the user is attempting to apply overlap an affected region of a color conversion process that has already been applied, and if so, informs the user by, for example, displaying the affected regions on a chromaticity diagram. |
| US08103092B2 |
Determining whether a color is inside or outside a boundary surface of a color gamut
What is disclosed is a novel system and method for quickly and accurately determining whether a color is inside or outside the boundary of a surface of a color gamut. The present method enables a gamut mapping algorithm to quickly identify points which require further processing and those which are already inside the gamut and thus do not need to be processed by the gamut mapping function. The present method can be performed directly on the printing device to determine whether the colors are in/out of the actual gamut surface of the target marking device. Other embodiments have also been disclosed. |
| US08103091B2 |
Object identification parameter learning system
It is to learn an object identification parameter while suppressing an influence of the background area. The object identification parameter learning system includes: a feature extracting device for obtaining a feature of an object from the image; a background specifying device for specifying a background area of the image; a background replacing device which replaces feature components corresponding to the background area of the feature with other values; and an identification parameter update device for updating the identification parameter based on the feature components replaced by the background replacing device. The identification parameter can be learnt by generating a plurality of pieces of feature data of the object with different backgrounds from a single object image through replacing the background area of the feature of the object. |
| US08103090B2 |
Behavior and pattern analysis using multiple category learning
A video processing system is configured to receive training video samples from a plurality of video sensing devices. The training video samples are sets of pair video samples. These pair video samples can include both substantially similar subject matter and different subject matter. In the first step, there is a patch pool sampled from videos, and the system select patches with more saliency. The saliency is represented by the conditional probability density function of the similar subject and the conditional probability of the different subject. During the testing phase, the system applies the selected patches from the training phase, and returns the matched subjects. |
| US08103089B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating projecting pattern
A pattern generating apparatus includes a sequence generating unit and an image data generating unit. The sequence generating unit generates a sequence formed by terms having M-value numeric values. The image data generating unit generates the image data by converting each numeric value of the sequence into a gray-level value according to each numeric value, and the sequence is generated by the sequence generating unit. The sequence generating unit generates the sequence such that vectors expressed by sub-sequences have different directions for the sub-sequence constituting the generated sequence. |
| US08103088B2 |
Three-dimensional image capture system
Apparatus to capture three-dimensional images of a head comprises a plurality of image capturing device modules, each module comprises a plurality of image-capturing devices; and a rigid support structure supporting the plurality of image capturing device modules to define a space wherein an image of the head may be disposed. The rigid support structure supports all of the modules in predetermined relationship to each other and to the space. The rigid support structure further supports the modules in positions such that each module is positioned to capture a group of first images of a corresponding surface portion of a head disposed within the space such that each group of first images captured by the corresponding module captures a substantially different surface portion of the head disposed within the space. |
| US08103086B2 |
Reticle defect inspection with model-based thin line approaches
Provided are novel inspection methods and systems for inspecting photomasks to identify various defects using a model-based approach and information obtained from modeled images. Modeled or simulation images are generated directly from test or reference images. Some examples include aerial images that represent expected patterns projected by a lithography system on a substrate as well as photoresist images that represent expected resist patterns. Test images are first represented as a band limited mask pattern, which may include only linear terms for faster image processing. This pattern is then used to construct a modeled image, which in turn is used to construct a model-based feature map. This map serves as a base for inspecting the original test images to identify photomask defects and may include information that allows differentiating between various feature types based on their lithographic significance and other characteristics. |
| US08103082B2 |
Optimizing virtual slide image quality
Systems and methods for assessing and optimizing virtual microscope slide image quality are provided. In order to determine whether a virtual slide image has any out of focus areas and is therefore a candidate for manual inspection, the various focus points used to scan the virtual slide image are used to calculate a best fit surface for the virtual slide image. The distance of each focus point from the best fit surface is then calculated and the largest distance is compared to a predetermined value. If the largest distance from a focus point to the best fit surface is larger than the predetermined value, then the virtual slide image is designated as needing a manual inspection and possible re-scan. |
| US08103081B2 |
Classification of samples
Methods disclosed herein include: (a) determining positions of a plurality of cells based on one or more images of the cells; (b) for at least some of the plurality of cells, generating a matrix that includes two-dimensional information about positions of neighboring cells, and determining one or more numerical features based on the information in the matrix; and (c) classifying the at least some of the plurality of cells as belonging to at least one of multiple classes based on the numerical features. |
| US08103080B2 |
Method for imaging and differential analysis of cells
Provided are methods for determining and analyzing photometric and morphogenic features of small objects, such as cells to, for example, identify different cell states. In particularly, methods are provided for identifying apoptotic cells, and for distinguishing between cells undergoing apoptosis versus necrosis. |
| US08103076B2 |
Method for transcatheter intra-arterial perfusion magnetic resonance imaging
A method to serially determine changes in perfusion to tissues is provided. This method involves injecting contrast material into a catheter that is positioned in the blood supply proximal to the targeted tissue of interest, acquiring a time series of images that depicts the uptake of this contrast material within the tissue, deriving semi-quantitative or quantitative perfusion metrics based upon the time series of perfusion images, altering perfusion to the targeted tissue by means of injecting pharmacologic agents or embolic agents into the blood vessels supplying the targeted tissue, repeating the acquisition of perfusion images to serially monitor changes in tissue perfusion after each alteration, and calculating changes in perfusion metrics after each series of perfusion images. This method is used to monitor changes in perfusion to various tissues, including a diverse array of tumors. The perfusion imaging method can be acquired using magnetic resonance, x-ray computed tomography, or radionuclide imaging. The perfusion metric is serially measured during an embolization procedure as a means of measuring changes in tissue perfusion or to target an endpoint based upon a specific alteration in the calculated perfusion metric. |
| US08103073B2 |
Cardiac visualization systems for displaying 3-D images of cardiac voxel intensity distributions with optional physician interactive boundary tracing tools
Physician interactive workstations with global cardiac voxel distribution visualization may also include one or more of a 3-D color scale image of a population of voxel in the heart and/or an electronic boundary-tracing tool configured to accept user input to electronically define at least one boundary of a target region of a heart in a medical image of a patient on a display. The workstation may be configured to evaluate intensity of voxels associated with tissue within the defined boundary of the target region of the heart whereby cardiotoxicity is evaluated. |
| US08103072B2 |
Method and system for identifying biological specimen slides using unique slide fingerprints
Method and system for processing specimen slides. A first image of a unique feature, such as a fiducial mark, of a specimen slide is acquired, and a second image of the same region of a fiducial mark is acquired at a later time. The first and second fiducial mark images are compared in order to determine whether they are images of the same fiducial mark of the same specimen slide, thereby allowing the system to detect when one specimen slide has been swapped with another specimen slide. The comparison may also involve images of multiple features on the specimen carrier, e.g., sets of multiple fiducial marks. |
| US08103070B2 |
Volume rendering apparatus and method
Volume rendering of images of four dimensional (4D) heart image data, in particular cardiac CT data by slab multiplanar reformatting (MPR), is improved by providing an automated method and apparatus for determining and locking onto anatomically relevant viewing parameters. In particular the view plane, view axis and view orientation are changed from frame to frame in the movie so they remain fixed to an anatomical feature of interest, thereby providing a stable movie of the heart feature of interest. Provision of a dynamic view plane compensates not only for translational motion of the heart feature of interest, but also for its tilting and twisting. Tilting effects are highly significant when viewing heart valves, since the valve plane exhibits varying angles of tilt through the heart phases as a result of the generally tubular arteries and veins exhibiting a bending motion. |
| US08103062B2 |
Video processing apparatus
A video processing apparatus includes: face-area detection means for detecting a face area included in a frame forming video data; trace-generation means for generating a frame identification corresponding to a start and an end of a trace including, as a unit, a set of frames from an appearance of the face area to a disappearance on the basis of the detection; representative face-area information generation means for selecting a representative face area from the face area included in frames forming the trace and generating representative face-area information representing contents of the representative face area; and video-data appended information generation means for generating video-data appended information relating the frame identification corresponding to a start and an end of the trace to the representative face-area information for the video data. |
| US08103061B2 |
Method and apparatus for identifying facial regions
An apparatus and method for identifying facial regions in an image includes a computer running a program that tests pixel values of an image to identify objects therein having attributes like pupils, such as shape, size, position and reflectivity. To reduce the time to identify pupils, the image is sub-rected, sub-sampled and only one color/brightness channel is tested. |
| US08103057B2 |
System and method for capturing images of a target area on which information is recorded
A system for capturing images of a target area on which information is recorded includes a boom assembly adapted to extend outwardly from a generally vertical surface. At least one digital camera is mounted on the boom assembly at a location spaced from the surface. The at least one digital camera is oriented so that the field of view thereof encompasses a target area on the surface. A controller is in communication with the at least one digital camera. The controller conditions the at least one digital camera to acquire an image of the target area. The image acquired by the at least one digital camera is conveyed to the controller and is processed to determine if an obstacle blocking the target area is in the captured image. If so, the captured image is not further processed and additional images are acquired until an image of the target area is captured without the obstacle therein. |
| US08103055B2 |
Detection of blobs in images
Blobs are detected in an image using closed curves having a predetermined shape such as a circle. Positions in the image are analysed. The size is determined at which there is a maximum in the differential of the average intensity around a closed curve with respect to the size of the closed curve. Detection scores are derived, representing the proportion of rays, out of a plurality of rays crossing a closed curve of the determined size, along which the intensity differential across the closed curve exceeds a contrast threshold. Detection of blobs is performed on the basis of the detection scores exceeding a threshold. Pixels of a detected blob are segmented for calculation of a centroid using a blob-separation threshold which is the average intensity around the closed curve of the determined size. The technique allows accurate and rapid detection of blobs of the predetermined shape. |
| US08103053B2 |
Method and apparatus for associating identifiers with content
Watermark detection in an image or the like can be optimized by exploiting the innate biases in the image to emphasize the watermark signal. The watermark signal can be trial-located with different origins in the image to find one that yields improved results. Similarly, the image can be processed (e.g., by changing resolution, rotation, or compression) so as to change the innate biases to better reinforce the watermark signal. Compression of an image can be done in accordance with a desired identifier, with the compressor deciding which image components to retain and which to discard based, in part, on the identifier that is to be associated with the image. The techniques are also applicable to other forms of content, such as audio. A variety of other arrangements are also detailed. |
| US08103051B2 |
Multimedia data embedding and decoding
A method for embedding data into a media signal receives a media signal, divides the media signal into blocks of samples, and calculates a function of the samples in the blocks, including transformations of samples in the blocks to corresponding block values. A processor uses the block value to determine a factor for samples in the blocks to be multiplied by the samples so that when a data embedding function is evaluated for the block, an output of the data embedding function corresponds to a data value representing desired digital data embedded in the block. A compatible decoder extracts this embedded data from the media signal. The decoder divides the media signal into blocks of samples and calculates a function of the samples in the blocks, including transformations of samples in the blocks to corresponding block values. A processor processes the block value to evaluate a data embedding function to determine digital data embedded in the block. |
| US08103050B2 |
Method for computing a fingerprint of a video sequence
The invention concerns a method for computing a fingerprint of a video sequence. The method comprises the steps of—Computation of a visual digest for each frame of the video, —Computation of the distance between the visual digest of each frame of the video in order to detect shots, —Detection, for each detected shot of the video, of a frame, called stable frame, having the smallest content variation of the shot, —Calculation of a local fingerprint for said stable frame. |
| US08103047B1 |
Signaling device
A signaling device is disclosed that transmits a signal to a personal monitoring system. The signaling device may include an array of RLC components that determine the frequency of the signaling device. The frequency may be tuned by adding or removing RLC components from impacting the frequency. The signaling device may also include a wake-up mechanism for activating the signaling device for normal use and a signal indicating that a predetermined useful life is about to end. |
| US08103046B2 |
Authenticity verification of articles using a database
A digital-signature is obtained by digitising a set of data points obtained by scanning a coherent beam over a paper, cardboard or other article, and measuring the scatter. A thumbnail-digital signature is also determined by digitising an amplitude spectrum of a Fourier transform of the set of data points. A database of digital signatures and their thumbnails can thus be built up. The authenticity of an article can later be verified by re-scanning the article to determine its digital signature and thumbnail, and then searching the database for a match. Searching is done on the basis of the Fourier transform thumbnail to improve search speed. Speed is improved, since, in a pseudo-random bit sequence, any bit shift only affects the phase spectrum, and not the amplitude spectrum of a Fourier transform represented in polar coordinates. The amplitude spectrum stored in the thumbnail can therefore be matched without any knowledge of the unknown bit shift caused by registry errors between the original scan and the re-scan. |
| US08103045B2 |
Structure function monitor
Methods and apparatus for a structure function monitor provide for generation of parameters characterizing a refractive medium. In an embodiment, a structure function monitor acquires images of a pupil plane and an image plane and, from these images, retrieves the phase over an aperture, unwraps the retrieved phase, and analyzes the unwrapped retrieved phase. In an embodiment, analysis yields atmospheric parameters measured at spatial scales from zero to the diameter of a telescope used to collect light from a source. |
| US08103044B2 |
Speaker device
A voice coil 6 is movably disposed in a magnetic gap 5. A drive cone (first diaphragm) 11 and a diaphragm (second diaphragm) 14 are integrally driven by the voice coil 6. Peripheral edge portion of the drive cone 11 and the diaphragm 14 are supported by a frame 12 through edge portions 13 and 15, respectively.An annular adhesive receiver 8 is disposed in a peripheral surface of a voice coil bobbin 7 around which the voice coil 6 is wound, and an inner peripheral edge 11a of the drive cone 11 is accommodated in the adhesive receiver 8. The drive cone 11, the adhesive receiver 8 and the voice coil bobbin 7 are connected to each other by an adhesive filled into the adhesive receiver 8. |
| US08103042B2 |
Case for containing a portable media player
There is provided a case for containing a portable media player, the case including: a frame for placement of the media player; and a speaker driver mounted in a cabinet, the speaker driver connectable to an audio output of the media player. The media player may be either permanently located within the case or removable from the case. The speaker driver may be connected to the audio output of the media player using either a wired connection or a wireless connection, the speaker driver being exposed when the case is in an open mode and the speaker driver being concealed when the case is in a closed mode. The case alternates between the open mode and the closed mode using fasteners such as, for example, adhesive strips, Velcro strips, magnetic strips, or a zipper. |
| US08103039B2 |
Microphone assembly with a replaceable part
The invention relates to a microphone assembly comprising a housing, a microphone element within the housing, a base element, contacting elements, a removable element, and connecting means. The housing is configured such that it may be opened and re-closed. The base element is positioned inside the housing and comprises one or more first electrical conductors. The base element comprises one or more first conducting surface parts connected to one or more of the first conductors. The contacting elements facilitate electrical contact between one or more of the first conductors and one or more conductors positioned outside the housing. The removable element is positioned within the housing and comprises one or more second electrically conductive surface parts. The connecting means provides an easily breakable/removable electrical connection between a first surface part and a second surface part. |
| US08103038B2 |
Boundary microphone
In a boundary microphone, a high-frequency current caused by extraneous electromagnetic waves is prevented from flowing into a microphone case via a microphone cord that is drawn into the microphone case. A portion in which the microphone cord 31 consisting of a two-core shield covered wire is drawn into the microphone case 1 is made a shielding wire exposed part 310 formed by removing a skin 31d, and the shielding wire exposed part 310 is connected electrically to a base part 10 via an electrical connecting means 40 (preferably, a conductive cloth 41, and further preferably, the conductive cloth 41 that is formed into a washer shape having an insertion hole for the shielding wire exposed part 310 and is arranged so as to close a cord insertion hole 12), whereby the high-frequency current caused by extraneous electromagnetic waves is surely prevented from flowing into the microphone case 1. |
| US08103035B2 |
Portable audio system having waveguide structure
An apparatus includes a housing. A waveguide is located within the housing. The waveguide includes a first subsection that bends around a first axis and has a first cross-sectional area with an aspect ratio that is substantially different from unity. A second subsection bends around a second axis that is non-parallel to the first axis and includes a second cross-sectional area with an aspect ratio that is substantially different from unity. A third subsection acoustically couples the first subsection to the second subsection. The third subsection includes a third cross-sectional area with an aspect ration that varies between the first aspect ratio and the second aspect ratio. |
| US08103034B2 |
Mounting device and speaker assembly having the same
A mounting device includes a positioning frame mounted with an electronic device, and two clamping mechanisms. Each clamping mechanism includes a sliding member movable vertically relative to the positioning frame, a clamping member movable horizontally relative to the sliding member between an extended position and a retracted position, a spring for biasing the clamping member toward the extended position, and a height-adjusting member operable to adjust the vertical position of the sliding member relative to the positioning frame. The clamping members can be moved to the retracted positions to allow for movement of the clamping members through a mounting hole in a horizontal plate, after which the height-adjusting members is operable to move the clamping members toward the positioning frame to thereby clamp the plate between the positioning frame and the clamping members. |
| US08103033B2 |
Audio system for portable device
An audio system has an enclosure and a transducer that is mounted to the enclosure. The transducer creates a vibration of the enclosure in response to being driven by an audio signal. A cradle assembly mechanically couples a portable device to the enclosure through one or more isolators such that only a portion of the vibration is coupled to the portable device. The enclosure is supported substantially entirely by the cradle assembly. |
| US08103029B2 |
Earset assembly using acoustic waveguide
An earset assembly including a first earpiece, a second earpiece, and an electrical circuit. The first earpiece includes an internal microphone to capture speech of a user and an internal speaker, and is positionable with respect to a first ear of the user so that the internal microphone detects the speech from the first ear of the user. The second earpiece includes an internal speaker, and is positionable with respect to a second ear of the user. The electrical circuit operatively connects the internal microphone and the internal speakers to a communication device. In an audio listening state, the electrical circuit is configured to operatively couple the internal speakers respectively to first and second audio ports of the communication device for outputting stereo audio content with the speakers, and the internal microphone is switched to an off state. In a communication state, the electrical circuit is configured to switch the internal speaker of the first earpiece to an off state, switch the internal microphone of the first earpiece to an on state for voice communication and operatively couple the internal microphone to a microphone port of the communication device, and maintain the operative coupling of the internal speaker of the second earpiece to the respective audio port for use in the voice communication. |
| US08103025B2 |
Surface mountable transducer system
The present invention relates to a surface mountable acoustic transducer system, comprising one or more transducers, a processing circuit electrically connected to the one or more transducers, and contact points arranged on an exterior surface part of the transducer system. The contact points are adapted to establish electrical connections between the transducer system and an external substrate, the contact points further being adapted to facilitate mounting of the transducer system on the external substrate by conventional surface mounting techniques. |
| US08103022B2 |
Method and system for detecting, and controlling power for, an auxiliary microphone
Methods and systems for detecting, and controlling power for, an auxiliary microphone are disclosed. Aspects of one method may include a detection block intermittently enabling a bias circuit block to provide a bias signal to determine if an auxiliary microphone may be communicatively coupled to a mobile device. The detection block may process 1-bit digital samples received from the bias circuit bock to determine whether the auxiliary microphone may be communicatively coupled. The detection block may also process the 1-bit digital samples to determine if a button associated with the auxiliary microphone may have been pushed or activated. |
| US08103020B2 |
Enhancing audio signals by nonlinear spectral operations
A system and method are disclosed for enhancing audio signals by nonlinear spectral operations. Successive portions of the audio signal are processed using a subband filter bank. A nonlinear modification is applied to the output of the subband filter bank for each successive portion of the audio signal to generate a modified subband filter bank output for each successive portion. The modified subband filter bank output for each successive portion is processed using an appropriate synthesis subband filter bank to construct a modified time-domain audio signal. High modulation frequency portions of the audio signal may be emphasized or de-emphasized, as desired. The modification may be applied within one or more frequency bands. |
| US08103019B1 |
Probabilistic gain-sensing ringing feedback detector
Disclosed herein are detectors of audio ringing feedback, that is decaying feedback with a gain of less than one, those detectors utilizing a repeated gain measurement that applied to a range of gain values characteristic of ringing-type feedback. Those gain measurements, while in the range, increase a probability measurement of feedback. When the probability of feedback reaches a threshold, a detection of feedback is made and feedback countermeasures, such as the application of a notch filter, may be applied. Optionally, the audio gain around likely frequencies of feedback may be enhanced for a time to increase the resolution of identification of a feedback frequency, which may be identified through an interpolative method. Repeated gain measurements may also identify building-type feedback. A ringing detector may include more than one range of detection, for example for building, strong-ringing and weak-ringing feedback. |
| US08103015B2 |
Wire-free headset, portable media player
There are proposed wireless headphones which have at least one electroacoustic transducer for the reproduction of audio signals, a receiver for receiving wirelessly transmitted audio data, an intermediate memory for putting the received audio data into intermediate storage, an audio decoding unit and a control unit. The audio data wirelessly received by the receiver are firstly buffered or put into intermediate storage in the intermediate memory. The control unit controls reading of the compressed audio data stored in the intermediate memory so that said data are passed to the audio decoding unit where the compressed audio data are decoded and then outputted by means of the electroacoustic transducers. Wireless transmission is effected at a higher speed than the reproduction of the stored audio signals. |
| US08103014B2 |
Hearing protector for use in magnetic resonance systems
The invention relates to a hearing protector for use in magnetic resonance systems. The hearing protector comprises a pad that is to be inserted in the ear and is provided on an adapter. A sound generating device is provided on or in the adapter or a sound transmitting device leads into same. |
| US08103012B2 |
Electromechanical speech aid
An electromechanical system for the stimulating of vibration of biological tissue, particularly of the human throat tissue, is provided with an electromechanical converter (12) having a self-resonant frequency and being operative for converting electric energy into mechanical energy, designed as a linearly movable, driven element (14) arranged to osculate about a zero-point position or from a zero-point position into a positive or negative direction, and with a vibration surface (20) for acting on the biological tissue. The driven element (14) of the electromechanical converter (12) is supported by an elastic, resilient unit (24) having a self-resonant frequency above the self-resonant frequency of the electromechanical converter (12), whereby the vibration surface (20) is caused to oscillate across a certain frequency range with a swing which at a constant input voltage is substantially constant across the frequency. |
| US08103011B2 |
Signal detection using multiple detectors
Signal detectors are described herein. By way of example, a system for detecting signals can include a microphone signal detector, a loudspeaker signal detector, a signal discriminator and a decision component. When the microphone signal detector detects the presence of a microphone signal, the loudspeaker signal detector detects the presence of a loudspeaker signal and the signal discriminator determines that near-end speech dominates loudspeaker echo, the decision component can confirm the presence of doubletalk. When the microphone signal detector detects the presence of a microphone signal and the signal discriminator determines that near-end speech dominates loudspeaker echo, the decision component confirms the presence of near-end signal. |
| US08103009B2 |
Wired, wireless, infrared, and powerline audio entertainment systems
A method and system for communicating audio signals between an input device and an output device via a network. The output device can include loudspeakers and headphones. In some embodiments an output device, for example a center channel speaker, transmits audio signals to other output devices. In some embodiments, the output device is coupled to, or combined with, a speaker stand or speaker bracket. The network can be wireless, wired, infrared, RF, and powerline. |
| US08103005B2 |
Primary-ambient decomposition of stereo audio signals using a complex similarity index
An audio signal is processed to derive primary and ambient components of the signal. The signal is first transformed to generate frequency-domain subband signals. Primary and ambient components are separated by comparing frequency subband content using a complex-valued similarity metric, wherein one of the primary and ambient components is determined to be the residual after the other is identified using the similarity metric. |
| US08103004B2 |
Method, apparatus and system for use in distributed and parallel decryption
The present embodiments advantageously provide methods and systems for use in decrypting content, and in some preferred embodiments expanding a security environment to distribute the computational processing involved in decryption. In some embodiments, a method for use in decrypting content is provided that receives a first content key at a first system for the decryption of a first track of encrypted content; encrypts the first content key according to a first instance key known at the first system; communicates the first encrypted content key over an externally accessible communication link to a second system; generates the first instance key at the second system independent of the first system; decrypts the first encrypted content key using the generated first instance key at the second system; and decrypts the first track of encrypted content using the first unencrypted content key at the second system. |
| US08102998B2 |
Method for elliptic curve scalar multiplication using parameterized projective coordinates
The method for elliptic curve scalar multiplication in an elliptic curve cryptosystem implemented over an insecure communications channel includes the steps of: (a) selecting positive integers Lx and Ly, where Lx and Ly are not both equal to 1, and where Ly≠3 if Lx=2; (b) representing coordinates of a point P=(x,y) on an elliptic curve of the form F(x,y)=y2−x3−ax−b=0 defined over a finite field as projective coordinates according to transforms x = X Z L x and y = Y Z L y , respectively; and (c) adding together K copies, K being a scalar, of the point P(X,Y,ZLx,ZLy) to obtain the scalar multiplication product KP. The scalar multiplication product is then converted from parameterized projective coordinates P(X,Y,ZLx,ZLy) to affine coordinates P(x,y). The method is optimized by restricting Ly so that Ly−Lx≧0 or, alternatively, so that Ly=Lx. The method may be carried out on a cryptographic device, which may be a computer, a (cellular) telephone, a smart card, an ASIC, or the like. |
| US08102995B2 |
Communication device and telephone communication method thereof
The present invention relates to a communication device and a telephone communication method thereof. The present invention includes two or more microphones mounted at different positioned in a predetermined space, e.g., in a vehicle. Further, a detector compares selectively the signal-to-noise ratios, sound quality states, volume intensities or the like of signals input through the microphones, and detects the most optimal signal as a telephone communication signal in the signals. Echo and/or howling contained in the input signal when one talks over the telephone with a communication counterpart is removed through an echo remover in accordance with the control operation of a controller. Furthermore, if signals are input to the others of the microphones while the telephone communication is performed, the telephone communication is continuously performed by comparing the input signals with the signal input to the microphone through which the telephone communication has been performed and selecting a microphone with the most optimal telephone communication signal. Accordingly, there is an advantage in that occupants except a driver can conveniently talk over the telephone using any one of two or more microphones installed in a vehicle, and the telephone communication can be performed with an optimal telephone communication signal although a talker is changed. |
| US08102992B2 |
Dynamic load balancing between multiple locations with different telephony system
A system and method for dynamic load balancing between telephony systems are provided. The system includes an input to receive a call from a primary interactive voice response (IVR) system. The system also includes an IVR unit responsive to the call to receive input from a caller. The system also includes logic to select a telephony system from among a plurality of telephony systems based on the input from the caller and based on agent availability data of the plurality of telephony systems. The system further includes at least one output to send the received call for allocation to a call center site of the selected telephony system based on a routing protocol associated with the selected telephony system. |
| US08102986B1 |
Methods and systems for providing telecommunications services
The present invention is related to telecommunications. A call processing system receives a first call from a caller intended for a first person. A notification regarding the first call is transmitted over a network to a terminal associated with the first person. A user interface is displayed on the terminal via which the first person can indicate that a callback message is to be transmitted to the caller. The callback message is transmitted to the caller, wherein the callback message includes an identification of the first person, a callback control, and text indicating that the caller is to activate the control to initiate another call to the first person. At least partly in response to the caller activating the control, A second call to be placed via which the first person and caller are connected. |
| US08102982B2 |
Credit card activation processing system and method
A method, system and apparatus for activating a credit card held by a telephone subscriber using identifying information provided through the PSTN to a credit card activation authority. In accordance with the present invention, a credit card activation management method can include activating a credit card through an established telephone call with a credit card customer using information derived from outside of the established telephone call without first prompting the credit card customer for identifying information. Also, the method can include the step of transferring the telephone call to a customer service representative responsive to a request for live help by the credit card customer. |
| US08102979B2 |
Remote access to a computer telephony system
A method of accessing a plurality of features of a second telecommunication system from a first telecommunication system includes receiving a telephone call on the second telecommunication system from a first device having a first telephone number and determining whether the first telephone number is a stored authorized number. The method further includes determining if the first telephone number is a stored authorized number, and providing access to the plurality of features if it is. |
| US08102978B2 |
Storage-enabled facilities
Methods, systems, and apparatuses are disclosed for enabling network facilities with data storage capability. A data connection is established to a storage device. Customer-defined electronic data is communicated to the storage device via the data connection. At least some of the electronic data may be managed according to a service level agreement. |
| US08102968B2 |
High brightness X-ray generating device and method
A high brightness X-ray generator and a high brightness X-ray generating method are provided which are able to promote an increase in X-ray brightness (i.e., an increase in an X-ray output) while suppressing an excessive increase in the cost of optical elements such as a laser unit, a mirror, and a lens. A high brightness X-ray generator generates an X-ray by inverse Compton scattering by colliding an electron beam with pulse laser light. There are provided a plurality of pulse laser units (32A, 32B) which emits a plurality of pulse laser lights (3a, 3b ) in predetermined periods, an optical-path matching unit (34) which matches optical paths of the plurality of pulse laser lights, and a timing control unit (40) which controls timings of the optical-path matching unit and the pulse laser units, wherein the plurality of pulse laser lights is emitted from the same optical path at different timings. |
| US08102967B2 |
Goniometer
The invention relates to a goniometer and a method for measuring stresses and characterizing microstructure of particles. The goniometer comprises a base (1), and a measurement head (12) including both an X-ray tube and a detector arc (11) movably adapted to the base (1) by a robot capable for three-dimensional movement. In accordance with the invention the robot has means for creating arc-formed movement of the measurement head (12) during the measurement with rotating (5, 7, 15) and tilting (3, 16, 9) joints. |
| US08102963B2 |
CT scanner using injected contrast agent and method of use
A CT scanner includes a first X-ray beam source, and a second X-ray beam source. With such an apparatus, first source is used to monitor buildup of an injected contrast agent in a selected region of interest relative to a patient and at least the second source is used to perform diagnostic scanning when the buildup of the contrast agent reaches a desired level. |
| US08102961B2 |
Control rod guide tube and method for providing coolant to a nuclear reactor fuel assembly
Control rod guide tubes for a nuclear reactor having a body with an axial length that defines a lower end portion and an upper end portion and a cavity within a substantial length of the body. Orifices are included at the upper and lower end portions of the body. A control rod chamber is located within the cavity and is configured for receiving a control rod. A plurality of ports is coupled to the cavity and is positioned at a substantial length from the upper end portion of the body. Also included are at least two flow channels within the cavity that extend a substantial portion of the axial length of the body. Each flow channel is fluidly coupled to one or more of the ports for receiving fluid flow from outside the body and an outlet proximate to the upper end portion of the body for providing the received fluid flow. |
| US08102960B2 |
Adaptation of a digital receiver
A method and apparatus to improve adaptation speed of a digital receiver is presented. The receiver includes an equalizer to initiate adaptation to a transmission channel responsive to a first control signal, a slicer coupled to the equalizer to generate symbol decisions based at least in part on an equalized digital signal, logic to receive the symbol decisions and generate a selection signal when a lock onto a training sequence of the symbol decisions occurs, first and second phase detectors to detect phase errors of the equalized digital signal and an incoming digital signal, respectively, and a clock generator to generate a clock signal responsive to one of the first and second phase errors. |
| US08102956B2 |
Smart antenna solution for mobile handset
A mobile terminal with smart antennas, comprises a plurality of groups of radio frequency signal processing modules (300), for transforming received multi-channel radio frequency signals to multi-channel baseband signals; a smart antenna processing module (306), for smart antenna baseband processing said multi-channel baseband signals output from said plurality of groups of radio frequency signal processing module so as to combine said multi-channel baseband signals into single-channel baseband signals, according to control information received one-off as said smart antenna processing module is enabled; and a baseband processing module (303-305), for providing said control information to said smart antenna processing module according to data from said smart antenna processing module, and baseband processing said single-channel baseband signals outputted from said smart antenna processing module. |
| US08102949B2 |
Bit log likelihood ratio evaluation
A system and method are provided for generating bit log likelihood ratio (LLR) values for two-layered Quadrature Phase-Shift Keying (QPSK) turbo decoding in a wireless communications user terminal (UT). The method includes receiving a two-layered QPSK signal with an energy ratio that is unknown, but typically defined as either k12 or k22. The method selects a mismatched energy ratio (k2) between k12 and k22, and generating bit LLR values for two-layered QPSK turbo decoding, using the mismatched k2 energy ratio. For example, if the received two-layered QPSK signal is known to have an energy ratio of about 4 or about 6.25. Then, k2 is selected to be about 5.0625. Alternately stated, the mismatched k2 energy ratio in selected by determining the approximate midpoint between k12 and k22. |
| US08102948B2 |
Carrier recovery apparatus and method thereof
A carrier recovery apparatus includes a pilot strength detector, a first lock loop, a second lock loop, and a controller. The pilot strength detector determines whether a pilot strength of an input signal is greater than a threshold value to generate a control signal. The first lock loop performs a first carrier recovery on the input signal. The second lock loop performs a second carrier recovery on the input signal. The controller selectively allows the first lock loop to perform the first carrier recovery on the input signal or the second lock loop to perform the second carrier recovery on the input signal according to the control signal. The first lock loop is a pilot-based FPLL and the second locked loop is a pilot-less PLL. |
| US08102947B2 |
Bit labeling for amplitude phase shift constellation used with low density parity check (LDPC) codes
An approach is provided for bit labeling of a signal constellation. A transmitter generates encoded signals using, according to one embodiment, a structured parity check matrix of a Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) code. The transmitter includes an encoder for transforming an input message into a codeword represented by a plurality of set of bits. The transmitter includes logic for mapping non-sequentially (e.g., interleaving) one set of bits into a higher order constellation (Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK), 8-PSK, 16-APSK (Amplitude Phase Shift Keying), 32-APSK, etc.), wherein a symbol of the higher order constellation corresponding to the one set of bits is output based on the mapping. |
| US08102942B2 |
VSB modulation apparatus and method for generating a VSB-modulated wave
A vestigial sideband (VSB) modulation apparatus includes a signal processing unit which extracts an I-axis data signal component and a Q-axis data signal component from a baseband signal with symbol data superimposed thereon, a band-limiting filter which frequency-shifts the I-axis data signal component and the Q-axis data signal component, extracted by the signal processing unit, by only a specific frequency smaller than a rate of the symbol data and limits a passband width by a frequency width smaller than the rate of the symbol data, and a quadrature modulating unit which obtains a VSB modulation signal by quadrature-modulating the I-axis data signal component and the Q-axis data signal component output from the band-limiting filter. |
| US08102941B2 |
Peak suppression control apparatus
A peak suppression threshold value control unit receives an input of quality requirement information, such as a modulation system and coding ratio, from a baseband signal generation unit, determines a threshold value of a peak suppression unit based on the quality requirement information and outputs the threshold value to a peak suppression unit. The peak suppression unit applies a peak suppression control to a baseband signal input from a baseband signal generation unit based on the threshold value and outputs a signal (i.e., a peak suppression signal) applied by the peak suppression process. |
| US08102930B2 |
Demodulation of 16-QAM, DCM data symbols using two hybrid-QPSK constellations
In one embodiment, a demapper uses two hybrid-QPSK constellations to demap pairs of equalized data symbols recovered from 16-QAM, DCM OFDM symbols, wherein the equalized data symbols in a pair correspond to the same four-bit group. A first hybrid-QPSK constellation is generated by combining the real components of both 16-QAM mapping constellations onto one coordinate plane. The demapper generates a first set of two decision variables by combining the real components of each equalized data symbol in a pair to correspond to the first hybrid-QPSK coordinate plane. A log-likelihood ratio is then calculated for both decision variables in the set to determine likelihood estimates for the first and second bits of the four-bit group. This process is repeated for the imaginary components of each corresponding pair of equalized data symbols to generate likelihood estimates for the third and fourth bits of the four-bit group. |
| US08102928B2 |
Spectrally constrained impulse shortening filter for a discrete multi-tone receiver
A channel in a multiple carrier communication system is equalized by computing a target spectral response, shortening the impulse response of the channel so that a significant part of an energy of the impulse response is confined to a region that is shorter than a target length and filtering the signal based on the target spectral response. |
| US08102926B2 |
Method and apparatus for communication in a system employing differing transmission protocols
A method and apparatus for communication in a system employing differing transmission protocols. It is determined whether a first time slot of one transmission protocol is adjacent to a second time slot of another transmission protocol, and if a first symbol within the first time slot is adjacent to a second symbol of the second time slot. A pilot power and/or a number of pilot sub-carriers or tones of the first symbol is increased and channel estimation is performed on the first symbol. |
| US08102925B2 |
Low peak-to-average ratio preamble, and associated method, for packet radio communication system
Apparatus, and an associated method, for facilitating communications is a packet radio communication system, such as an IEEE 802.15.3a-compliant communication system. A deterministic sequence is used as a channel estimation sequence. The channel estimation sequence exhibits a peak-to-average ratio of lower than 8.86 dB. |
| US08102924B2 |
Arrangements and methods for per tone equalization with reduced complexity
An equalizer for a multi carrier signal for carrying out equalization adapted to each carrier or group of carriers, Fourier transforms the multi carrier signal, and obtains difference terms of the multi carrier signal. Both are input to an adaptive filter, to output equalized signals, wherein decimation is applied to at least some of the difference terms input to the filter. This enables the complexity to be reduced for a given performance level. In particular since only non-zero filter taps need to be stored and updated, coefficient memory and coefficient calculation capacity can be reduced. Another way to reduce complexity involves measuring noise for at least some of the carriers, and dynamically adapting the size of the filter on a per carrier basis according to global optimizion heuristic algorithms which adapt this filter size based on the comparison between this noise and an optimal performance figure achieved in a previous ISI-ICI free measurement phase. |
| US08102923B2 |
Hierarchical coding for multicast messages
Techniques for sending signaling information using hierarchical coding are described. With hierarchical coding, individual messages for users are encoded using multiple interconnected encoders such that (1) the message for each user is sent at a data rate suitable for that user and (2) a single multicast message is generated for the messages for all users. A base station determines data rates supported by the users and the code rates to achieve these data rates. Each data rate is determined by one or more code rates. Signaling information for the users is mapped to data blocks to be sent at different data rates. Each data block is then encoded in accordance with the code rate(s) associated with the data rate for that data block. A final coded block is generated for all users and transmitted. Each user performs the complementary decoding to recover the message sent to that user. |
| US08102922B2 |
Demodulator device and demodulation method for reducing PCR jitter
A demodulator device for a digital TV receiver includes a symbol-deinterleaver performing symbol-based deinterleaving, a bit-deinterleaver performing bit-based deinterleaving, a demapper performing demapping, and a Viterbi decoder performing Viterbi decoding, wherein one of the symbol-deinterleaver, the bit-deinterleaver, and the demapper includes a memory storing data that has undergone symbol-deinterleaving, and another one of the symbol-deinterleaver, the bit-deinterleaver, and the demapper or the Viterbi decoder reads the data that has undergone symbol-deinterleaving with an adaptively optimized throughput rate. |
| US08102921B2 |
Digital broadcasting system and data processing method
The present invention provides a method of processing data in digital broadcasting system. The method includes receiving a broadcast signal including mobile broadcast service data and main broadcast service data, wherein the mobile broadcast service data configures a data group, wherein the data group is divided into a plurality of regions, wherein known data sequences are linearly inserted in some regions among the plurality of regions, and wherein initialization data are inserted at a beginning portion of each known data sequence, the initialization data being used for initializing a memory included in a trellis encoder of a digital broadcast transmitting system, detecting known data included in the received broadcast signal, channel-equalizing the received mobile broadcast service data corresponding to the detected known data, using the detected known data, extracting a video data from the mobile broadcast service data, parsing the extracted video data by a NAL unit and decoding the parsed video data based on header information of the parsed NAL unit. |
| US08102920B2 |
Digital broadcasting system and data processing method
The present invention provides a method of processing data in digital broadcasting system. The method includes receiving a broadcast signal including mobile broadcast service data and main broadcast service data, wherein the mobile broadcast service data configures a data group, wherein the data group is divided into a plurality of regions, wherein N number of known data sequences are inserted in some regions among the plurality of regions, and wherein a transmission parameter is inserted between a first known data sequence and a second known data sequence, among the N number of known data sequences, detecting the transmission parameter from the mobile broadcast service data, controlling power based upon the detected transmission parameter, thereby receiving a data group including requested mobile broadcast service data, extracting video data from the mobile broadcast service data and decoding the extracted video data, the decoding step comprising performing overlap smoothing on the video data and performing loop filtering on the overlap-smoothed video data. |
| US08102919B2 |
Image coding apparatus and image decoding apparatus
An image coding apparatus which reduces buffer capacity to a minimum and includes an image coding processing unit which generates intermediate data by executing a part of a process in the coding on the image data; a packetizing unit which generates an image stream by executing a process other than the part of the process in the coding on the intermediate data, such as for example arithmetic coding, and packetizes the generated image stream in synchronization with the image stream generation process. |
| US08102917B2 |
Video encoder using a refresh map
The present invention relates to a video encoder (ENC) for encoding frames (FR) of a video signal before transmission, said video encoder (ENC) including an encoding decision unit (EDU) for deciding which kind of coding will be used for each data of said frame (FR) in an encoding unit (ENU). Said video encoder (ENC) further implements a freshness map calculation unit (FMCU) for calculating, throughout the time, for each data of said frame (FR), a corresponding freshness value (FV) taking into account Intra and Inter prediction mechanisms, independently from a calculation of a distortion. Said freshness value (FV) express on which degree encoded data (ED) are relying on previously transmitted data and said freshness value (FV) is used by said encoding decision unit (EDU). |
| US08102914B2 |
Image decoder
The present invention provides an image decoder which decodes a stream encoded with standard resolution and transforms it into a high-definition image with a better image quality. An intra-field pixel interpolation module generates an interpolated pixel using pixels in a field. An inter-field pixel interpolation module generates an interpolated pixel using pixels from another field. A weighted averaging module refers to the prediction mode used in predictive encoding for the coded stream. If the prediction mode is a field prediction mode, it increases the mixture ratio of interpolated pixels generated by the intra-field pixel interpolation module, and if the prediction mode is a frame prediction mode, increases the mixture ratio of interpolated pixels generated by the inter-field pixel interpolation module. |
| US08102907B2 |
Space-frequency equalization for oversampled received signals
Techniques for performing space-frequency equalization and spatial equalization in the frequency domain are described. Space-frequency equalization combines signal components across both space and frequency dimensions whereas spatial equalization combines signal components across space. A receiver obtains input symbols for multiple (M) signal copies from multiple (R) receive antennas and multiple (C) times oversampling, where M is equal to R times C. For space-frequency equalization, the receiver derives equalizer coefficients for the M signal copies, e.g., based on MMSE criterion, filters, the input symbols for the M signal copies with the equalizer coefficients, and combines the filtered symbols for the M signal copies to obtain output symbols. Space-frequency equalization may be used for some frequency bins and spatial equalization may be used for other frequency bins to reduce complexity. |
| US08102906B2 |
Fractional-rate decision feedback equalization useful in a data transmission system
Decision feedback equalization (DFE) circuits are disclosed for use with fractional-rate clocks of lesser frequency than the data signal. For example, a one-half-rate clocked DFE circuit utilizes two input data paths, which are respectively activated on rising and falling edges of an associated half-rate clock. Each of the input data paths has a pair of comparators with differing reference voltage levels. The comparators in each input data path output to a multiplexer, which picks between the two comparator outputs depending on the logic level of the previously received bit. The output of each input data path is sent as a control input to the multiplexer of the other data path. Thus, the results from previously-detected bits affect which comparator's output is passed to the output of the circuit, even though the synchronizing clock is half the frequency of the data. A quarter-rate DFE circuit is also disclosed which operates similarly. |
| US08102900B2 |
Method and apparatus for efficient gold code generation and management in WCDMA systems
A method and an apparatus for efficient Gold code generation and management in WCDMA systems are presented. Aspects of the method may include simultaneously generating, based on the codeword sequence, a plurality of scrambling code segments associated with a scrambling code. A plurality of scrambling code segments, where each is associated with a corresponding one of a plurality of scrambling codes, may also be simultaneously generated. The plurality of scrambling codes may form a scrambling code group. Based on the codeword sequence, a plurality of time shifted versions of at least one scrambling code segment associated with a scrambling code may also be simultaneously generated. |
| US08102895B2 |
Radio transmission apparatus, radio reception apparatus, transceiver, and radio communication method
A radio transmission apparatus that uses a plurality of band groups and that transmits a signal subjected to frequency hopping between a plurality of bands in each band group at a local frequency apart from the center frequency of each band includes a local frequency generating unit that generates a local frequency lower than the center frequency of each band in a first band group in the transmission with the first band group. The local frequency generating unit generates a local frequency higher than the center frequency of each band in a second band group in the transmission with the second band group, the local frequency to be generated being the same as the local frequency generated in the transmission with the first band group. |
| US08102894B2 |
Communication system and its method
In a communication system including a plurality of pairs of a transmitting device 2 and a receiving device 3, the transmission performance in the pairs is to be improved. The transmitting device 2-k transmits a transmission signal sk(t) to the receiving device 3-k a plurality of number of times. The receiving device 3-k updates the weight matrix Wk and the hopping pattern Pk used by the FIR filter which performs filtering on the transmission signal rk(t) at a predetermined time interval. The receiving device 3-k transmits the updated hopping pattern Pk to the transmitting device 2-k. The transmitting device 2-k receives the hopping pattern Pk to be used for subsequent spread spectrum. |
| US08102892B2 |
Semiconductor laser light emitting device and method for manufacturing same
A semiconductor laser device 1 includes infrared and red laser elements 3, 4 provided on a substrate 2, where the infrared element 3 includes a laminate of a first lower clad layer 11, a first active layer 12 and a first upper clad layer 13, and the red element 4 includes a laminate of a second lower clad layer 21, a second active layer 22 and a second upper clad layer 23. The clad layer 11 includes a third lower clad layer 17 formed on the substrate 2, an etching stop layer 18 formed on the third lower clad layer 17, and a fourth lower clad layer 19 formed on the etching stop layer 18 at a region provided with the infrared element 3. The second lower clad layer 21 is formed on the etching stop layer 18 except at the region of the infrared element 3. |
| US08102891B2 |
Nitride semiconductor laser element
A nitride semiconductor laser element includes a nitride semiconductor layer of a first conduction type, an active layer, and a nitride semiconductor layer of a second conduction type that is different from the first conduction type are laminated in that order, a cavity end face formed by the nitride semiconductor layers, and a protective film formed on the cavity end face. The nitride semiconductor layers of the first and second conduction types have layers containing Al, and the active layer has layer containing In. The protective film has a region in which an axial orientation of crystals is the same as that of the cavity end face on the nitride semiconductor layers of the first and second conduction types, and has another region in which an axial orientation of crystals is different from that of the cavity end face on the active layer. |
| US08102890B2 |
Semiconductor light emitting device
A semiconductor light emitting device includes a first-conductivity-type first multilayer film reflecting mirror, and a second-conductivity-type second multilayer film reflecting mirror; a cavity layer; and a first conductive section, a second conductive section, and a third conductive section. The cavity layer has a stacked configuration including a first-conductivity-type or undoped first cladding layer, an undoped first active layer, a second-conductivity-type or undoped second cladding layer, a second-conductivity-type first contact layer, a first-conductivity-type second contact layer, a first-conductivity-type or undoped third cladding layer, an undoped second active layer, and a second-conductivity-type or undoped fourth cladding layer. The first conductive section is electrically connected to the first multilayer film reflecting mirror, the second conductive section is electrically connected to the second multilayer film reflecting mirror, and the third conductive section is electrically connected to the first contact layer and the second contact layer. |
| US08102887B2 |
Edge bonded optical packages
Particular embodiments of the present disclosure bring an SHG crystal, or other type of wavelength conversion device, into close proximity with a laser source to eliminate the need for coupling optics, reduce the number of package components, and reduce package volume. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an optical package is provided comprising a laser source subassembly comprising a laser base and a wavelength conversion device subassembly comprising a converter base. The bonding interface of the laser base is bonded the complementary bonding interface of the converter base such that the laser output face can be proximity-coupled to the converter input face at an predetermined interfacial spacing x. Additional embodiments are disclosed and claimed. |
| US08102886B1 |
Integrated curved grating based semiconductor laser
A wavelength tunable laser which includes a first mirror, a diffraction grating to diffract a laser beam into a plurality of diffracted laser beams, at least one feedback waveguide, at least one second mirror. Each feedback waveguide precedes one of the second mirrors, and a phase detector to detect an error in a wavelength of a received laser beam with respect to a desired wavelength. |
| US08102884B2 |
Direct inter-thread communication buffer that supports software controlled arbitrary vector operand selection in a densely threaded network on a chip
A computer-implemented method, system and computer program product for retrieving arbitrarily aligned vector operands within a highly threaded Network On a Chip (NOC) processor are presented. Multiple nodes in a NOC are able to access a single Compressed Direct Interthread Communication Buffer (CDICB), which contains a misaligned but compacted set of operands. Using information from a Special Purpose Register (SPR) within the NOC, each node is able to selectively extract one or more operands from the CDICB for use in an execution unit within that node. Output from the execution unit is then sent to the CDICB to update the compacted set of operands. |
| US08102879B2 |
Application layer metrics monitoring
The present invention enables the monitoring of application layer metrics of data packets for subscribers or groups of subscribers. In one embodiment, an edge routing node, such as an edge router or the like, between an access network and a core network will identify a subscriber associated with the incoming data packets and then identify an application layer policy to apply to the data packets. The application layer policy may identify the application layer metrics to monitor, how to analyze the application layer metrics, and perhaps actions to take in light of identifying certain application layer metrics, as well as identifying how, where, and when to report the application layer metrics, or an aggregation thereof. With the present invention, application layer metrics can be obtained and analyzed in real time on a subscriber-by-subscriber basis. |
| US08102875B2 |
Remote unit with exterior connectivity, and corresponding information delivery method
A remote unit consisting of an enclosure, equipment providing network access, connections to a limited amount of subscribers and a central office which also provides exterior connectivity. Users and information sources in the vicinity of the remote unit can use a wired or wireless interface to the remote unit for content delivery to a central location. |
| US08102873B2 |
Communication system, communication apparatus and terminal accommodation apparatus
A communication system, a communication apparatus and a terminal accommodation apparatus which use a metallic subscriber line and are a high-speed and inexpensive are provided. The communication system includes a plurality of terminal accommodation apparatuses 200 for accommodating terminals 3c, 3d, a communication apparatus 1 connected to an IP network 4, and digital subscriber lines L3 for connecting the plurality of terminal accommodation apparatuses 200 and the communication apparatus 1. The terminal accommodation apparatus 200 includes a PCM (pulse code modulation) modulator and a subscriber line interface. The PCM modulator converts a voice signal received from the terminal 3c to PCM data. The subscriber line interface transmits data including the PCM data to the communication apparatus 1 via the metallic subscriber line L3. The communication apparatus 1 includes an IP converter 130 for converting the PCM data to an IP (Internet protocol) packet. |
| US08102872B2 |
Method for discontinuous transmission and accurate reproduction of background noise information
The present invention comprises a method of communicating background noise comprising the steps of transmitting background noise, blanking subsequent background noise data rate frames used to communicate the background noise, receiving the background noise and updating the background noise. In another embodiment, the present invention comprises an apparatus for communicating background noise comprising a vocoder, at least one smart blanking apparatus operably connected to the vocoder, a de jitter buffer operably connected to the smart blanker; and a network stack operably connected to the input of the de jitter buffer and the an output of the smart blanking apparatus. |
| US08102870B2 |
System, server and method for optimizing a group management protocol
The present invention discloses a method, server and system for optimizing a group management protocol so as to reduce the complexity in setting and switching filter modes in the prior protocols. The method includes: a group member sends a membership report to a multicast router; upon reception of the membership report, the multicast router judges whether the report carries an EXCLUDE mode non-empty source list; if so, the router updates a corresponding state inside the router according to a non-source-specific join; or else, the router updates the corresponding state inside the router directly with the information of the report. The method provided by the present invention can avoid the complex switching and processing of filter modes in the prior protocols. |
| US08102868B2 |
Interleaved and directional wireless mesh network
A directional and interleaved wireless mesh network is described where mesh nodes have directional antennas facing in horizontally orthogonal directions. The antennas can be focused to have a beam width of less than ninety degrees in order to achieve greater strength of signal and radiation. Each mesh node can have two radios that communicate on separate channels, such that packets propagated through the mesh network can utilize either channel in order to hop from one node to the next. Each radio can be connected to four orthogonally directed antennas in order to enable communication with adjacent nodes. Alternatively, a separate independent radio can be connected to each antenna in order to achieve greater simultaneity of transmission and reception to the node. For example, two such radio-antenna combinations can be facing in each of the four orthogonal directions, each of the two combinations operating on a different RF channel. |
| US08102867B2 |
Bridges and computing devices with bridges
The present invention may be related to a bridge for communications in a data communication system. The bridge may include a first interface, a second interface, a memory and a micro control unit. The first interface may be adapted to couple with a first computing device in the data communication system. The second interface may be adapted to couple with a second computing device in the data communication system. The memory may be adapted to store a set of codes sent from the first computing device via the first interface, wherein the set of codes is related to one of at least one function device of the first computing device. Moreover, the micro control unit may be configured to execute the set of codes for generating device information in a format consistent with a protocol type of the second interface. The device information may include parameters related to the one function device. |
| US08102864B2 |
Location specific event broadcasting
Applications in a broadcast environment distribute events in real-time to a large number of receivers within specified geographic locations while efficiently sharing bandwidth resources with other applications using the same broadcast network. Applications need not be aware of the other applications sharing the resources, nor of the methods, protocols, and other mechanisms used to actually broadcast the data over the broadcast medium. Server-side applications that serve data, send notifications, or distribute events to specific locations within the network use a broadcast location manager. Client applications that receive such data, notifications, or events use a client location filter to obtain events that are relevant based on the location of the device. The broadcast location manager and client location filter work together to reliably and efficiently transmit data, notifications, and events to specific locations over the broadcast network for all applications involved. |
| US08102863B1 |
High-speed WAN to wireless LAN gateway
A gateway interconnecting a high speed Wide Area Network (WAN) and a lower speed Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is provided. The high speed WAN is preferably connected to the gateway via a Fiber-to-the Home (FTTH) connection and associated FTTH modem. In general, the gateway includes an adaptable cross-layer offload engine operating to manage bandwidth between the high speed WAN and the lower speed WLAN. As data enters the gateway from the WAN at the high speed data rate of the WAN, the offload engine stores the data in a non-secure data cache. A rule check engine performs a stateless or stateful inspection of the data in the non-secure data cache. Thereafter, the data is moved from the non-secure data cache to a secure data cache and thereafter transmitted to an appropriate user device in the WLAN at the lower data rate of the WLAN. |
| US08102859B2 |
Method, system, and device for network selection
A method, system, and device for network selection are provided. The method for network selection includes the following steps. After network selection is triggered, a network selection list stored in a Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC) and a network selection list stored in a Mobile Equipment (ME) are read, where the UICC is embedded in the ME and accessible to the ME. Network selection is performed according to the network selection list stored in the UICC and the network selection list stored in the ME. Also, a method for network selection through a network selection policy is added and methods for implementing a type and a data structure of a network selection policy as well as a method for network selection based on a network selection policy are provided, so that network selection can be controlled more flexibly, a terminal can locate a target network faster, and time consumed for the network selection is reduced. |
| US08102857B2 |
System and method for processing data and control messages in a communication system
A system and method for receiving data and control messages comprised of a series of data units is provided. The data units comprising each message are structured to follow a particular sequence, such as zero or more data units of a first type followed by one or more data units of a second type, which may then followed by data units of one or more other predetermined types. Upon receiving a data unit of a first or second type, a number of “units to follow” is determined from information provided in the received data unit. A number of subsequently received data units are then forced to be processed as one of the first type, the second type, or other predetermined type in accordance with the known structure of the message. The number of subsequently received data units that are forced to be processed as one of these types is based on the determined number of units to follow. |
| US08102856B2 |
Method of implementing traversal of multimedia protocols through network address translation device
The present invention discloses a method of implementing traversal of multimedia protocols through Network Address Translation device, wherein the Network Address Translation (NAT) device establishes a mapping relationship between address of a terminal in a private network and address of a terminal in a public network, and enables the terminal in the private network to access the public network with a common address, so as to implement the interaction of media streams between the terminal in the private network and the terminal in the public network, in which the common address is a address of the private network for accessing the public network. |
| US08102854B2 |
Neighbor discovery proxy with distributed packet inspection scheme
A network device is to receive traffic including neighbor discovery messages from requesting customer devices, and can detect the neighbor discovery messages within the traffic according to a distributed inspection scheme that includes the network device and a remote component. The network device is to then examine the neighbor discovery messages to determine if the neighbor discovery message should be forwarded to other of the customer devices, and respond to the requesting customer devices. |
| US08102851B1 |
End-of-burst detection for upstream channel of a point-to-multipoint link
A method of signaling and detecting end-of-transmission on a data communications link that uses scrambling comprises, by a transmitting node of the network, appending an end of burst delimiter (EBD) binary sequence to burst data and transmitting the burst data and the EBD over the communication link to a headend of the network. In a 10 G EPON using a 64B/66B transmission code, the EBD is exemplarily a 198 bit pattern. |
| US08102844B1 |
High-speed SECS message services (HSMS) pass-through including bypass
A method and system for intercepting and forwarding High-Speed SECS Message Services (HSMS) communication between at least two entities, includes a fail-safe bypass to ensure the communications link between the entities is not severed upon failure of the intercepting/forwarding agent. A “pass-through” agent is placed in between two entities communicating via an HSMS link, such that the pass-through agent is able to intercept messages from one entity and forward it to the other entity, and vice versa. The pass-through agent is able to see all messages between the two entities, and is also able to create HSMS messages and send them to one of the entities as if the message had come from the other entity, thereby conferring the ability to inject additional HSMS messages. Should the pass-through agent fail, a bypass mechanism ensures that the two entities can automatically resume HSMS communication without the pass-through agent. |
| US08102837B2 |
Network coding approach to rapid information dissemination
A method, apparatus and computer program product for providing rapid information dissemination using network coding is presented. A coded message including a payload and a code vector, is transmitted from a first node of the network to a second node of the network. The information thus stored can also be retrieved by collecting code vectors from at least one node and viewing the collected code vectors as a matrix. A determination is made regarding whether a dimension of the matrix is equal to a predefined number. When the dimension of the matrix equals the predefined number, the information is retrieved using the collection of code vectors in the matrix. |
| US08102836B2 |
Synchronization of a split audio, video, or other data stream with separate sinks
Methods, systems, and apparatuses for synchronizing one or more output/sink devices are described. In each sink device, a communication packet is received from a source device. The communication packet includes data and a source clock timestamp. A local clock signal is generated that is synchronized with a source clock signal of the source device. The data is decoded using a codec. At least one delay and the source clock timestamp are subtracted from a current value of the local clock signal to generate a local latency value. A difference between a desired latency value and the local latency value is determined. A rate of a clock signal of the codec is adjusted according to the determined difference. Because each sink device adjusts its latency to a common desired latency value, the sink devices are thereby synchronized. |
| US08102833B2 |
Method for transmitting uplink signals
A method for transmitting uplink signals, which include ACK/NACK signals, control signals other than the ACK/NACK signals, and data signals, is disclosed. The method comprises serially multiplexing the control signals and the data signals; sequentially mapping the multiplexed signals within a specific resource region in accordance with a time-first mapping method, the specific resource region including a plurality of symbols and a plurality of virtual subcarriers; and arranging the ACK/NACK signals at both symbols near symbols to which a reference signal of the plurality of symbols is transmitted. Thus, the uplink signals can be transmitted to improve receiving reliability of signals having high priority. |
| US08102828B2 |
Method and system for establishing tunnel in WLAN
A method and a system for establishing a tunnel in a wireless local area network (WLAN) are described. The method includes the following steps. A WLAN terminal initiates a tunnel establishment request in an Internet Key Exchange Security Association (IKE SA) that has been established. It is judged whether the number of tunnels already established in the IKE SA reaches a corresponding first threshold or not, if the number of tunnels does not reach the corresponding first threshold, establishing the tunnel for the WLAN terminal; otherwise, rejecting the establishment of the tunnel for the WALN terminal. It is decided whether to establish the tunnel for the WLAN terminal or not by judging whether the number of the tunnels already established in each IKE SA reaches the corresponding threshold or not during the tunnel establishment of the WLAN terminal, thereby effectively controlling the rationality and validity about the tunnel establishment. |
| US08102826B2 |
Mobile communication terminal for providing ad-hoc network service and method for managing ad-hoc network using the same
A method for managing an ad-hoc network using a mobile communication terminal is disclosed. The method includes creating an address table that stores ad-hoc network addresses of the mobile communication terminals and a routing table that stores routing information of the terminals, allocating an address to a first mobile communication terminal and storing the result in the address table, receiving topology change information of the ad-hoc network from the first terminal, updating the routing table and then transmitting it to the first terminal and other ad-hoc network participating terminals. Since the ad-hoc network is managed using the mobile communication network system, the mobile communication network and the ad-hoc network are all effectively managed. |
| US08102824B2 |
Method and arrangement for reducing the average time needed for a communication unit to connect to a communication network
A method and an arrangement are provided for reducing the time needed for a communication unit (18) to connect to a communication network (11-16; 14-16), wherein the communication unit has to listen for data transmissions on a plurality of communication channels, and to identify one of the communication channels, on which an ongoing transmission is detected, before being able to begin transmitting. The method comprises the steps of monitoring the time lapsed since last transmission on the channel was ended, and transmitting data on the channel in order to enable the communication unit (18) to detect an ongoing transmission provided that a condition of low data traffic is detected corresponding to that no further data transmission occurs on the channel during a given period of time since the last transmission on the channel was ended. |
| US08102819B2 |
Method of paging and late-entry after establishing group call
The present invention discloses a method for Late-Entry in CDMA or other trunking systems. The method includes the following steps: after a group call is established, the base station checks the load condition of the paging channel, and if the load on the paging channel is relatively light, then the base station sends paging message carrying channel resource, and the terminal directly establishes the corresponding channel and the call is accessed through the matching for group identifier address after it receives the paging message; otherwise, the base station sends the paging message not carrying channel resource, and sends the message carrying channel resource after it receives the response message from the terminal, and then the terminal establishes the corresponding channel based on the resource information in said message and the call is accessed. By employing the method of the present invention, the load on the paging channel is alleviated and the access speed of the terminal is guaranteed. |
| US08102816B2 |
Methods and devices for determining if a handover has to be executed for a terminal
The present invention concerns a method for determining in a wireless cellular telecommunication network in which a half duplex terminal is handled by a first base station, if a second base station is able to handle the half-duplex terminal, characterized in that the method comprises the steps, executed by the half duplex terminal, of: receiving signals from the first base station and from the second base station, determining quality measurements for the signals, determining the time period between the reception of the signal transferred by the first base station and the reception of the signal transferred by the second base station, determining if the second base station is able to handle the half-duplex terminal according to at least the quality measurements and the time period. |
| US08102814B2 |
Access point profile for a mesh access point in a wireless mesh network
A mesh access point that includes an access point profile storing one ore more parameters in non-volatile memory, and a method of using the mesh access point having the access point profile to select and carry out mutual authentication on a wireless mesh network to establish itself to the mesh network using information in the access point profile, and further to provide services to wireless clients according to information in the access point profile. Access point profiles can be pre-configured/configured/updated suitably in order to adapt the mesh access point in a mesh network according to its capabilities and requirements. |
| US08102812B2 |
Methods and apparatus for data packet transmission on a network
A change in a client device is detected (306) during a transmission of a plurality of packets destined to at least one first destination used by at least one packet session. In response to the change, a determination (312) is made as to whether some but not all of the plurality of packets should be redirected to at least one second destination based, at least in part, on at least one predefined criterion. Accordingly, some but not all of the plurality of packets is redirected (316) to the at least one second destination when the some but not all of the plurality of packets should be redirected according to the at least one predefined criterion. |
| US08102810B2 |
Adaptively selecting signal constellations for multi-carrier edge
The wireless communication device and corresponding method described herein selectively switches between a single-frequency mode, such as appropriate for an EDGE network, and a multiple-frequency mode, such as appropriate for a multi-carrier EDGE network. Accordingly, a transmitting wireless communication device selectively switches between a single-channel mapping unit, used during the single-frequency mode, and a multi-channel mapping unit, used during the multiple-frequency mode. The multi-channel mapping unit modulates input data to output a modulated data stream for each of multiple adjacent frequency channels that, when combined, produce a multiple-frequency signal with reduced peak-to-average ratio. A receiving wireless communication device selectively switches between a single-channel demodulator, used during the single-frequency mode, and a multi-channel demodulator, used during the multiple-frequency mode. |
| US08102803B2 |
Method and apparatus for wireless communication of packet data using transmit diversity weighting
A method and apparatus for transmit diversity in packet data communications includes applying an initial transmit antenna weight. A link adaptation signal is received and analyzed. A transmit antenna weight change is determined based upon the analysis of the link adaptation signal, and the transmit antenna weight is updated based upon the determination. |
| US08102800B2 |
Discontinuously transmitting and receiving multimedia broadcast/multicast service data in mobile communication system
Discontinuous transmission and reception of point-to-multipoint service data between a network and a mobile terminal is achieved by transmitting scheduling information from the network to the mobile terminal via a first common channel. The mobile terminal determines a time for receiving the service data in response to the scheduling information and discontinuously receives the service data through a second common channel. |
| US08102799B2 |
Centralized wireless network for multi-room large properties
Method and devices for use in a centralized wireless network are provided. The centralized wireless network employs a wireless communication protocol to communicate with various devices throughout the network. In addition to communication, the protocol may be used to control and monitor various aspects of the devices throughout the network. |
| US08102798B2 |
Method and apparatus for managing scanning in wireless computing devices to reduce power consumption
A method and system for scanning in a wireless device having a wireless network interface card (NIC) is presented. The system has a scanning history table for storing scanning results and a scanning engine that adjusts the scanning period based upon a history of scanning results and commands the NIC to scan for available networks after the period has expired. The engine receives scan results from the NIC, stores the scan results in the scanning history table, determines a scanning period based upon a history of scan results, sets the scanning period, and commands the NIC to scan for available networks after the scanning period has expired. The engine is programmed to set the scanning period using an exponential function and to reset the scanning period to a default period if the scan results are different from a prior scan result or if a triggering event is received. |
| US08102796B2 |
Wireless data communication method and wireless data communication system
A method for transmitting and receiving data packets between a master device and at least one slave device using a synchronized data communication protocol. In the method, a time period to be used between consecutive packets to be transmitted to the master device is defined, on the basis of the calculated number of data packets received by the master device in a predetermined time period. In the wireless data communication system, a master device, and a slave device, including wireless data communication part transmit and receive data packets between the devices using a synchronized data communication protocol. In the protocol, the time period to be used between consecutive packets to be transmitted is defined on the basis of the calculated number of data packets received by the master device in a predetermined time period. |
| US08102792B2 |
Enabling foreign network multicasting for a roaming mobile node, in a foreign network, using a persistent address
Permitting a mobile host to roam in a foreign network, with multiple access node handoffs, while permitting foreign network multicasting by (i) having the mobile node (MN) use a persistent address, for purposes of multicasting, and (ii) relaxing or modifying reverse path forwarding checks, and (iii) modifying the forwarding of multicast packets sent from a non-local source address. The persistent address, used in mobile networks as the source address in the IGMP Membership reports and the multicast packets, may be the permanent and hence stable host home address (HoA). This enables the HoA to be supported as a source address by foreign agents (FAs) and multicast routing protocols in foreign networks. |
| US08102789B2 |
System and method for synchronous wireless communication with a medical device
Constituents of a network of medical devices communicate according to a synchronous communication protocol. A constituent of the network is established as a conductor. Time slots are assigned to each constituent of the network other than the conductor. Information is communicated between the constituents of the network in the assigned time slots. |
| US08102786B2 |
Method, system and apparatus for providing modulation and coding mode used by multicast service macro diversity
The invention discloses a method, a system and apparatus for providing modulation and coding mode used by multicast service macro diversity. In this method, a message containing relevant information of modulation and coding mode(s) used by an MBS zone is sent in the MBS zone at first; the MS receives the message, analyzes other messages in the MBS zone according to the relevant information of the modulation and coding mode(s) contained in this message, and receives MBS service data according to the analyzed result upon other messages in the MBS zone. The invention resolves the problem that an entity is required to uniformly manage the coding and modulation mode definition of each cell in the prior art, as well as the problem that the DCD count in the DL-MAP message has to be continuously tracked in the prior art. |
| US08102785B2 |
Calibrating radiofrequency paths of a phased-array antenna
The present invention provides a method of calibrating base station comprising a plurality of antennas and operating in an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplex (OFDM) and Time Division Duplex (TDD) mode. One embodiment of the method includes a method of calibrating a base station comprising a plurality of antennas for beamsteering forward link traffic data to a target mobile in a TDD wireless communication system. Each antenna is connected to a corresponding radio via a transmit/receive switch that is configured to switch between a receive path and a transmit path. The method includes transmitting a first signal from a first radio via a first cross-over cable coupled to the first radio and a second radio such that the first signal is received by the second radio. The method also includes transmitting a second signal from the second radio via a second cross-over cable coupled between the first and second radios such that the second signal is received by the first radio. The method further includes determining, based on at least one of the first or second signals, a relative weight that can be applied to traffic signals transmitted from the second radio. |
| US08102784B1 |
Localization in a network
A system for determining node locations comprises an interface for receiving a first set of measurements at a first set of nodes, the first set of nodes having known locations. The system further comprising an interface for receiving a second set of measurements at a node having an unknown location, and a processor configured for determining a location of the node with unknown location based at least in part on the first set of measurements and the second set of measurements. |
| US08102782B2 |
Apparatus and method for collecting and analyzing communications data
A method of monitoring data on a first communication line. Data is received from the first communication line (402) and a plurality of packets (406) are extracted (416) from the data. Statistics are then recursively generated (408), the statistics corresponding to the plurality of packets. |
| US08102780B2 |
Method and apparatus for performing reachability testing within the context of customer virtual private networks
In one embodiment, the invention comprises a method and apparatus for verifying connectivity in a network comprising a plurality of provider edge routers and a plurality of customer edge routers facilitating communication within at least one customer virtual private network. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a method for determining respective operational statuses of edge communication links between provider edge routers and customer edge routers. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a method for verifying site-to-site reachability within the context of customer virtual private networks. |
| US08102779B2 |
System and method of detecting and locating intermittent electrical faults in electrical systems
Signals are transmitted from at least one transmitter that is positioned in an electrical network. The signals that have been transmitted are received by the at least one single receiver at a single receiver positioned within the electrical network. At the single receiver, the received signals are analyzed and a determination from the analyzing the received signals is made as to whether a fault has occurred in the electrical network. |
| US08102775B2 |
Joining tree-based networks into an autonomous system using peer connections between the tree-based networks
In one embodiment, a first router attaches to an attachment router based on detecting a first router advertisement message specifying an attachment prefix and a first tree information option. The first tree information option includes a first IP host address of a first clusterhead having established a first tree topology. The first router receives a second advertisement from a second router specifying a second address prefix, distinct from the attachment prefix and the first address prefix of the first router, and a second tree information option specifying a second IP host address of a second clusterhead having established a second distinct tree topology. If the first and second routers are at equal depths relative to the respective first and second clusterheads, routing information is shared, including first address prefix reachable via the first router, and a host route for reaching the first IP host address via the first router. |
| US08102774B2 |
GMPLS based OAM provisioning
A method and network are described herein for provisioning Operations, Administration, and Maintenance (OAM) entities for a connection when setting-up the connection between an ingress edge node and an egress edge node. |
| US08102769B1 |
Method and system for network communication
A method and system for network communication is provided. The method for network communication comprises setting a data size for a network connection, wherein the data size represents an amount of network data a network adapter can send to a host system for the network connection before the network adapter waits for an application to accept any data that has been sent to the host system; monitoring the amount of network data that is received by a host system driver; monitoring the amount of network data that is sent by the network adapter; and suspending transfer of network data to the host system, if the amount of network data sent by the network adapter is similar to the set data size. |
| US08102768B2 |
Method and system for traffic flow control in a communication network
A method for controlling traffic flow in a communication network compliant with a Multilevel Precedence and Preemption (MLPP) scheme is described. The method selectively modifies parameters of TCP connections for transmissions to meet speed of service (SoS) requirements and establishes the connections in accordance with their levels of precedence. In applications, the method may be implemented in communication networks using High Assurance Internet Protocol Encryption (HAIPE) or an IP Security (IPSec) protocol. |
| US08102766B2 |
Method and system for managing time-sensitive packetized data streams at a receiver
According to one embodiment of the invention, a method for managing time-sensitive packetized data streams at a receiver includes receiving a time-sensitive packet of a data stream, analyzing an energy level of a payload signal of the packet, and determining whether to drop the packet based on the energy level of the payload signal. |
| US08102765B2 |
Correlation-based rate adaptation for communication networks
A correlation-based rate adaptation scheme (CORA) is enabled for practical communication devices that provides for communication data rate adaptation in a complex and/or rapidly changing communication environment. Correlations may be determined between adjustable parameters of a communication scheme and one or more performance metrics and/or communication scheme operating regimes. In the context of the correlation-based rate adaptation scheme, adjustable parameters of the communication scheme may be considered as defining a multi-dimensional parameter space, and the determined correlations may be considered as correlation maps that may be used to guide parameter selection and adjustment. The use of correlation maps enables extraction of information from imperfect and/or incomplete measurements, and the information collected in the correlation maps may be used to tune corresponding communication scheme parameters to enhance communication performance. |
| US08102763B2 |
Method, system and node for backpressure in multistage switching network
The present invention provides a backpressure method, system, and intermediate stage switching node of a multistage switching network and an intermediate stage switching node. The method includes: (i) the intermediate stage switching node receives a first backpressure information; and (ii) the intermediate stage switching node sends at least part of the first backpressure information to an upper stage switching node, wherein there is no response sent by the intermediate switching node to at least part of the first backpressure information. |
| US08102750B2 |
Super resolution producing apparatus capable of adjusting reproduction power
When a super resolution technology for optical disks is used in a situation where optical disk management information is formed with a signal that cannot be reproduced by a reproduction method based on a conventional optical disk technology, optical disk drives cannot make recording adjustments and/or reproduction adjustments. An optical disk drive uses an optical disk that forms a management information signal with pits not smaller in size than optical resolution and can be read by a reproduction method based on a conventional optical disk technology. When the optical disk drive records information onto or reproduces information from the optical disk having the super resolution region, it is possible to make proper recording adjustments or reproduction adjustments and perform a proper recording operation or reproducing operation in an optical disk's information region for user information recording or reproduction. |
| US08102749B2 |
Object lens, optical pickup, and optical disc device
An optical pickup includes: a first emitting unit to emit an optical beam of a first wavelength; a second emitting unit to emit an optical beam of a second wavelength; a third emitting unit to emit an optical beam of a third wavelength; an object lens to condense optical beams emitted from the first through third emitting units onto a signal recording face of an optical disc; and a diffraction unit provided on one face of an optical element or the object lens positioned on the optical path of the optical beams of the first through third wavelengths; wherein the diffraction unit includes a generally circular first diffraction region provided on the innermost perimeter, a ring zone shaped second diffraction region provided on the outer side of the first diffraction region, and a ring zone shaped third diffraction region provided on the outer side of the second diffraction region. |
| US08102748B2 |
Optical pickup device
An optical pickup device radiates laser light to a disc having a plurality of recording layers in a direction of lamination. The optical pickup device includes a laser light source, a collimator lens, and an objective lens. The collimator lens changes a spread angle of the laser light emitted from the laser light source. The objective lens converges the laser light having passed through the collimator lens onto the disc. With the laser light in a parallel state having passed through the collimator lens, if a distance f between the laser light source and the collimator lens and a distance L between the collimator lens and the objective lens are in a relation of f |
| US08102746B2 |
Method of recording data, method of manufacturing read-only optical disc, and read-only optical disc
A method of recording data includes: a first recording step of recording data in a condition that, within a certain error correction block in a data format in which error correction blocks with n rows and m columns including at least main data, error detection code, and error correction parity are formed, an allocated location of additional supplementary information is set in a location in the same column as an allocated location of the error detection code, and an additional recording area is formed for recording additional information containing the additional supplementary information and the error detection code and the error correction parity necessary to be recorded according to the recording of the additional supplementary information; and a second recording step of recording the additional information in the additional recording area after the data recording at the first step is executed. |
| US08102745B2 |
Information recording medium, method of configuring version information thereof, recording and reproducing method using the same, and recording and reproducing apparatus thereof
In one embodiment, the method includes reading control information including version information from a specific area of the recording medium. The version information includes a first version information and a second version information. At least one of the first version information and the second version information is used to determine a backward compatibility with respect to reading or writing of the recording medium. A recording/reproducing of data on/from the recording medium is controlled based on the version information. |
| US08102742B2 |
Optical information recording medium, optical information recordng apparatus, and optical information recording method
An optical information recording medium includes a recording layer in which a track is formed, the track having recording marks linearly arranged thereon. Each recording mark has a dimension corresponding to a reference mark length, which serves as a reference, in a track direction along which the track extends, the dimension being smaller than dimensions of the recording mark in two directions perpendicular to the track direction. |
| US08102741B2 |
Write-once read-many information recording medium, information recording method, information reproduction method, information recording apparatus, and information reproduction apparatus
A write-once read-many information recording medium is provided, which is capable of easily searching for a latest DDS and a latest defect list. At least one disc management working area is sequentially allocated in a predetermined direction on the write-once read-many information recording medium of the present invention. The latest defect list and the latest DDS are provided in a recorded disc management working area neighboring a border between the recorded disc management working area and an unrecorded disc management working area, where the latest defect list precedes the latest DDS in the predetermined direction. |
| US08102739B2 |
Optical disk playback apparatus and optical disk recording/playback apparatus
Disclosed herein is an optical disk playback apparatus including: a signal playback device configured to read and decode information recorded to an optical disk through an optical pickup unit in order to reproduce the information; the signal playback device including a signal generation circuit, a first signal processing device, a second signal processing device, a modulator, a switch, an analog to digital converter, and a third signal processing device. |
| US08102735B2 |
Docking station for mounting and programming multifunction timer device and method
A multifunction timer device provides a time/date stamp on a dispensing container and includes a housing, a controller with a timer circuit contained in the housing, a display for displaying information from the timer circuit, and a multifunction input button. The input button is operable in predetermined sequences to select operating and display modes of the timer device. The input button can be operated to display an actual date or time, to display a current timer value, to select between count-up and count-down modes, and to increment a counter. An adhesive backing is provided for attaching the timer device to the container. A communications link is provided for interfacing the controller with an external programmer. A reset trigger is used to automatically reset the timer device when the object is moved in a particular way, such as when a lid is removed from a pill container. A docking station interconnected with a host data processing system encodes information read from a container label and writes scanned and stored data to the timer device while simultaneously mounting the timer device to the container. |
| US08102734B2 |
High intensity focused ultrasound transducer with acoustic lens
A high intensity focused ultrasound transducer includes an ultrasonic emitter having a surface that emits ultrasonic energy along a beam path, at least one low attenuation polymeric ultrasonic lens acoustically coupled to the surface in the beam path of the ultrasonic energy, such that the lens can direct the ultrasonic energy in at least one direction, and at least one stress mitigation feature, such as a kerf, a heat sink, or an acoustic matching layer, to mitigate thermal expansion mismatch stresses within the transducer. For manufacturing simplicity, the first surface is typically either flat or monotonically curvilinear. The lens may take a variety of shapes, including Fresnel features, and may focus, collimate, or defocus the ultrasonic energy. Any orientation and positioning of the at least one ultrasonic lens relative to the first ultrasonic emitter is contemplated. Manufacture is further simplified by molding, casting, or thermoforming the lens. |
| US08102731B2 |
Method for operating marine seismic vibrator array to enhance low frequency output
A method for operating marine seismic vibrators includes towing at least a first and a second marine seismic vibrator in a body of water beneath the hull of a vessel. At least a third marine seismic vibrator is towed at a selected depth in the water other than beneath the hull of the vessel. The at least first, second and third vibrators are operated to sweep through respective frequency ranges. The first and second frequency ranges have lowermost frequencies and uppermost frequencies respectively differing by a selected sub-harmonic frequency range. The third frequency range has a lowermost frequency at least equal to the uppermost frequency of one of the first and second frequency ranges and traverses a seismic frequency range of interest. |
| US08102727B2 |
Semiconductor memory device
A semiconductor memory device comprises a memory cell array including a plurality of mutually intersecting word lines and bit lines, and a plurality of memory cells connected at intersections thereof and each having a read port and a write port provided independently; and a plurality of word line drivers operative to drive the word lines. The elements contained in the memory cell have respective sizes in common with the elements contained in the word line driver. |
| US08102725B2 |
Method for controlling a pre-charge process and a respective integrated circuit
A method of controlling a pre-charge process of a data line (21, 22) in an integrated circuit (100) comprises the step of monitoring a rate of change of a voltage applied to the data line (21, 22) for enhancing the security. Further a respective integrated circuit (100) is disclosed. |
| US08102723B2 |
Memory device bit line sensing system and method that compensates for bit line resistance variations
Systems, devices and methods are disclosed, such as a system and method of sensing the voltage on bit lines that, when respective memory cells coupled to the bit lines are being read that compensates for variations in the lengths of the bit lines between the memory cells being read and respective bit line sensing circuits. The system and method may determine the length of the bit lines between the memory cells and the sensing circuits based on a memory address, such as a block address. The system and method then uses the determined length to adjust either a precharge voltage applied to the bit lines or the duration during which the bit lines are discharged by respective memory cells before respective voltages on the bit lines are latched. |
| US08102722B2 |
Data output device for semiconductor memory apparatus
A data output device of a semiconductor memory apparatus includes detection means configured to detect a specified operation frequency range; pre-driving means configured to be inputted with signals; driving means configured to receive outputs of the pre-driving means and drive an output of data; and adjustment means configured to adjust a slew rate of the driving means under the control of an output signal of the detection means. |
| US08102720B2 |
System and method of pulse generation
In a particular embodiment, a device includes a reference voltage circuit to generate a controlled voltage. The device includes a frequency circuit configured to generate a frequency output signal having a pre-set frequency and a counter to generate a count signal based on the pre-set frequency. The device also includes a delay circuit coupled to receive the count signal and to produce a delayed digital output signal and a latch to generate a pulse. The pulse has a first edge responsive to a write command and a trailing edge formed in response to the delayed digital output signal. In a particular embodiment, the pulse width of the pulse corresponds to an applied current level that exceeds a critical current to enable data to be written to an element of the memory but does not exceed a predetermined threshold. |
| US08102701B2 |
Magnetic memory with a thermally assisted writing procedure
A magnetic memory device of MRAM type with a thermally-assisted writing procedure, the magnetic memory device being formed from a plurality of memory cells, each memory cell comprising a magnetic tunnel junction, the magnetic tunnel junction comprising a magnetic storage layer in which data can be written in a writing process; a reference layer, having a magnetization being always substantially in the same direction at any time of the writing process; an insulating layer between the reference layer and the storage layer; wherein the magnetic tunnel junction further comprises a writing layer made of a ferrimagnetic 3d-4f amorphous alloy, and comprising a net magnetization containing a first magnetization contribution originating from the sub-lattice of 3d transition elements and a second magnetization contribution originating from the sub-lattice of 4f rare-earth elements. The magnetic memory device has a low power consumption. |
| US08102699B2 |
Phase change memory device
A memory device includes a substrate and a plurality of cell arrays stacked above the substrate. The cell arrays have bit lines coupled to first ends of memory cells and word lines coupled to the other ends. Each of the memory cells includes a variable resistance element to be set at a resistance value. While a selected bit line is set at a certain potential, word lines coupled to different memory cells, which are coupled in common to the selected bit line, are sequentially driven, so that different memory cells are accessed in a time-divisional mode. |
| US08102697B2 |
Three-dimensional programmable resistance memory device with a read/write circuit stacked under a memory cell array
A programmable resistance memory device includes a semiconductor substrate, at least one cell array, in which memory cells are arranged formed above the semiconductor substrate. Each of the memory cells has a stack structure of a programmable resistance element and an access element, the programmable resistance element storing a high resistance state or a low resistance state determined due to the polarity of voltage application in a non-volatile manner. The access element has such a resistance value in an off-state in a certain voltage range that is ten time or more as high as that in a select state. A read/write circuit is formed on a semiconductor substrate as underlying the cell array for data reading and data writing in communication with the cell array. |
| US08102694B2 |
Nonvolatile memory device containing carbon or nitrogen doped diode
A nonvolatile memory device includes at least one nonvolatile memory cell which comprises a silicon, germanium or silicon-germanium diode which is doped with at least one of carbon or nitrogen in a concentration greater than an unavoidable impurity level concentration. |
| US08102693B2 |
Quantum dot optical devices with enhanced gain and sensitivity and methods of making same
Optical and optoelectronic devices and methods of making same. Under one aspect, an optical device includes an integrated circuit an array of conductive regions; and an optically sensitive material over at least a portion of the integrated circuit and in electrical communication with at least one conductive region of the array of conductive regions. Under another aspect, a method of forming a nanocrystalline film includes fabricating a plurality of nanocrystals having a plurality of first ligands attached to their outer surfaces; exchanging the first ligands for second ligands of different chemical composition than the first ligands; forming a film of the ligand-exchanged nanocrystals; removing the second ligands; and fusing the cores of adjacent nanocrystals in the film to form an electrical network of fused nanocrystals. Under another aspect, a film includes a network of fused nanocrystals, the nanocrystals having a core and an outer surface, wherein the core of at least a portion of the fused nanocrystals is in direct physical contact and electrical communication with the core of at least one adjacent fused nanocrystal, and wherein the film has substantially no defect states in the regions where the cores of the nanocrystals are fused. |
| US08102689B2 |
Semiconductor memory device having dummy sense amplifiers and methods of utilizing the same
A semiconductor memory device having dummy sense amplifiers and a method of utilizing the same are provided. Embodiments of the semiconductor memory device may include at least one dummy cell block including dummy cells and memory cells. Normal bit lines connecting the memory cells in the dummy cell block in a first direction and dummy bit lines connecting the dummy cells in the first direction. A dummy sense amplifier is also included for connecting any two of the normal bit lines and the dummy bit lines. Some of the embodiments may improve the sensing margin and refresh margin in sensing memory cells in the dummy cell, as well as increasing the redundancy efficiency and utilization of the dummy cells. |
| US08102688B2 |
Semiconductor memory devices with interface chips having memory chips stacked thereon
A semiconductor memory device includes a controller, a plurality of substrates, and a plurality of stacked memories that are spaced apart and sequence on each of the substrates. Each of the stacked memories includes an interface chip that is connected to the respective substrate and a plurality of memory chips that are stacked on the interface chip. The controller is configured to control the stacked memories. The interface chips are configured to forward a command signal from the controller through each interface chip in the sequence of stacked memories that is intervening between the controller and a selected stacked memory to which the command signal is directed. The interface chips may forward the command signal from one end of the sequence of the stacked memories on one of the substrates to the selected stacked memory, and forward a response signal from the selected stacked memory through the remaining stacked memories in the sequence on the substrate back to the controller or through the same sequence of stacked memories that was taken by the command signal. |
| US08102684B2 |
Relief circuit
A circuit arrangement for limiting excessive voltages by a forward delay time of a first diode is described. The first diode is alternately switched in a non-conducting direction and a conducting direction by switching a circuit element. The first diode is series-connected to a first capacitor and a pre-charging circuit is provided for the first capacitor, the pre-charging circuit charging the first capacitor while the first diode is switched in the non-conducting direction. The pre-charging circuit charges the first capacitor more strongly than an excessive voltage of the first diode with regard to the amount. |
| US08102682B2 |
Power supply control circuit for an inductive coil used to heat a tool shrink attachment
A circuit 1 for controlling the supply of electrical power to an induction coil 2, in particular to an induction coil 2 for heating a shrink attachment for tools, comprises a rectifier 3, having an input 3a, 3b, 3c for feeding an input power, and a rectifier output.The circuit 1 furthermore comprises an inverter 5 for putting out an AC-voltage, having an input and an inverter output 5a, 5b for connecting the induction coil 2, an intermediary circuit 4 for connecting the rectifier 3 with the inverter 5, and a regulation unit for regulating the power supplied to the induction coil 2. A measurement apparatus 6 for measuring a voltage A2 as an input variable for the regulation unit is connected to the output side of the inverter 5. A respective method for regulating the power supplied to the induction coil 2 comprises a regulation step, in which the current A2 supplied to the induction coil 2 is used as an input variable for the regulation of the power supplied to the induction coil 2. |
| US08102681B2 |
Measurement apparatus, test apparatus, and measurement method
Provided is a transformer, comprising a first winding and a second winding that interlink with a main magnetic flux; and a third winding that interlinks with a magnetic flux leakage interlinking with only one of the first winding and the second winding. |
| US08102677B2 |
Switching power supply device and method for adjusting dead time thereof
A resonant switching power supply device includes: a first switching element and a second switching element which are configured to convert and adjust power. A capacitance of a first/second gate-drain capacitor existing between a gate and a drain of the first/second switching element and a resistance of a first/second gate resistor of the first/second switching element are set such that, in a period during which a resonance current flows by switching the second/first switching element, a gate-source voltage of the first/second switching element is lower than an ON threshold voltage of the first/second switching element due to the resonance current divided into the first/second gate-drain capacitor. |
| US08102673B2 |
Electrical connector having height-adjustable member
An electrical connector comprises an insulative housing, a plurality of terminals and a rigid height-adjustable member. The insulative housing defines a mating face, a back face, at least a lengthwise slot on the mating face, and a plurality of passageways extending through the housing from the mating face to the back face. Each of the terminals received in the respective passageways of the insulative housing comprises a contact portion extending into the slot, a retention portion secured in a corresponding passageway of the insulative housing, a mounting end, an S-shaped bellowed portion between said retention portion and the mounting end and configured to extend out of the back face of the insulative housing. The rigid height-adjustable member is supportably mounted onto the housing to lift up the housing to a predetermined height. |
| US08102672B2 |
Device with button guiding element
A device with a button guiding element comprises a device substance, a button, a button guiding element, and a circuit board. The device substance has a button opening. The button comprises a button substance, a first fixing element, a second fixing element, and a driving element. The button substance is located in the button opening. The first fixing element is fixed to the first side of the button substance and engages with the device substance. The second fixing element is fixed to the second side of the button substance. The driving element is located on the button substance. The circuit board has a driving point, which is spaced apart from and in alignment with the driving element. The button guiding element disposed in the device substance is used to restrict the motion of the second fixing element to reduce the occurrence of a situation in which the button is obliquely positioned. |
| US08102669B2 |
Chip package structure with shielding cover
A chip package structure with a shielding cover includes a substrate, a chip, a pair of first passive components, a pair of second passive components, and a shielding cover. The chip, the pair of first passive components, the pair of second passive components, and the shielding cover are disposed on the substrate. The chip is electrically connected to the substrate. The shielding cover covers the chip and has leads connected to the substrate. The leads include a first lead and a second lead. The first lead connected to a portion of the substrate is located between the pair of first passive components and arranged along a first axis with the pair of first passive components. The second lead connected to a portion of the substrate is located between the pair of second passive components and arranged along a second axis with the pair of second passive components. |
| US08102668B2 |
Semiconductor device package with internal device protection
An integral impedence is formed on or within a lead frame pin of a semiconductor package and receives a connection from an electrode of a semiconductor die within the package to eliminate the need for adjustment and protective impedences external of the package. The impedence comprises passives such as resistors, capacitors, diodes or inductors which modify the performance of the package for new semiconductor device characteristics. The impedences may have positive or negative temperature coefficients and are in close thermal communication with the semiconductor die. |
| US08102667B2 |
Method and apparatus for spatially optimizing surface mount pads on a ball grid array package
Method and apparatus for spatially optimizing the arrangement of surface mount pads on a ball grid array package. An array containing T surface mount pads with a diameter less than or equal to 0.4 millimeter is arranged in an array of rows and columns less than or equal to 0.5 millimeters center-to-center. The array of pads is subdivided into N groups of pads respectively numbered Gx (for X from 1 to N), each group containing Px pads (for X from 1 to N). Each pad in each group is located so as to maximize the number of empty spaces Sz that are adjacent to each pad, where Sz=(Gx−1). The number of fanout possibilities for each group (Px*Sz) is calculated, and then the total number of fanout possibilities, FP, is calculated using the function Σ1N (Px*Sz). The resulting spatially optimized pattern has a quality score, FP/T, that is equal to or greater than 2. |
| US08102662B2 |
USB package with bistable sliding mechanism
A USB device including a bistable mechanism that serves to bias a plug connector into one of two stable states, where the first stable state is associated with a retracted position in which the plug connector is fully retracted inside a housing, and the second stable state is associated with a deployed position in which the plug connector extends through the front opening for coupling to a host system. Movement of the plug connector form the retracted to the deployed position is performed by manually applying a force to a handle portion that protrudes through a slot defined in the housing. The bistable mechanism resists the deploying force until an equilibrium point is reach, after which the bistable mechanism releases stored potential energy to complete the deploying process and to maintain the plug connector is the deployed position. |
| US08102660B2 |
Multi-layer printed wiring board, electronic device, and fabrication method of electronic device
There is provided a multi-layer printed wiring board that can perform impedance control, concurrently maintaining the flexibility of a flexible portion with one or more signal lines. Such a multi-layer printed wiring board includes a plurality of rigid board units; and a flexible board unit, connecting outer layers or inner layers of the plurality of rigid board units and extending over the outer layers or the inner layers of the plurality of rigid board units. The flexible board unit includes a signal layer sending signals between the plurality of rigid board units; ground layers sandwiching the signal layer; and intermediate layers each interposed between the signal layer and one of the ground layers. |
| US08102658B2 |
Micro-SD to secure digital adaptor card and manufacturing method
A microSD-to-SD adaptor card includes a base substrate having a lead frame structure, a protective cap forming a chamber that encloses eight microSD contact pins of the lead frame structure, and a thermoset plastic casing formed over the protective cap and exposed portions of the base substrate to provide the adaptor card with standard SD card dimensions. A rear opening facilitates insertion of a standard microSD card, whereby the eight contact pads on the microSD card are contacted by the eight microSD contact pins inside the chamber to allow electrical signals generated by the microSD card to be transmitted to a host system by way of a standard SD socket. A grip anchor pin is disposed inside the chamber to engage a grip notch disposed on the microSD card. A pre-molded switch slot is provided on the molded plastic casing, and an insert-in write protect switch is mounted after molding. |
| US08102655B2 |
Circuit device
Provided is a circuit device capable of increasing the packaging density and preventing the thermal interference between circuit elements to be incorporated. In a hybrid integrated circuit device, a first circuit board and a second circuit board are fitted into a case member in a way that the first circuit board is overlaid with the second circuit board. A first circuit element is arranged on the upper surface of the first circuit board and a second circuit element is arranged on the upper surface of the second circuit board. Furthermore, inside the case member, provided is a hollow portion that is not filled with a sealing resin. Such a configuration prevents the second circuit element, which is a microcomputer, from operating unstably due to a heat generated in the first circuit element, which is a power transistor, for example. |
| US08102653B2 |
Electric unit having capacitor
A PCU has an inside sealed by a case made of aluminum and a bottom plate. Interior space of the PCU accommodates an IPM, a control substrate, and a capacitor. The IPM is provided to abut an upper surface of the bottom plate. The control substrate is a rectangular plate having mounted thereon a control circuit including electronic components such as a gate driver, a transformer and the like, and is provided above the IPM. The capacitor is accommodated in a housing in a substantially parallelepiped form. A reflector made of aluminum of high thermal reflectivity and high thermal conductivity is provided on the entire lower surface of the capacitor. |
| US08102651B2 |
Airflow barriers for efficient cooling of memory modules
Method and apparatus providing airflow through a chassis including an upstream column of memory modules and a downstream column of memory modules. The airflow is divided into first and second separate airflow streams extending from an upstream end of the upstream column to a downstream end of the downstream column. The first airflow stream is guided into contact with a single memory module operably-installed in the upstream column and to avoid contact with any memory module in the downstream column. The second airflow stream is guided to avoid contact with any memory module in the upstream column and into contact with a single memory module operably-installed in the downstream column. The improved cooling enables the extended use of a single memory module per channel, even though the thermal load on such a memory module is greater. The result is an overall savings of power, since cooling requirements no longer dictate the installation of additional memory modules per channel in order to share and distribute the thermal load. |
| US08102650B2 |
Electronic device
An electronic device is provided, including a first body, a second body, an axle assembly, a supporting frame, a display panel, a lens unit and a reflective unit. The second body is connected to the first body. The axle assembly is disposed between the first body and the second body, and via which first body is rotatable relative to the second body. The supporting frame is disposed in the second body and connected to the axle assembly, wherein the supporting frame is rotated with the rotation of the axle assembly. The display panel is fastened in the supporting frame. The lens unit is disposed on an end of the supporting frame. The reflective unit is disposed on the supporting frame and adjacent to the display panel. |
| US08102647B2 |
System and method for information handling system keyboard stowage
A portable information handling system's integrated keyboard stows keys into a retracted position when the portable information handling system transitions from an open to a closed position, such as by rotating a lid to a closed position relative to a chassis having the keyboard. A cover plate disposed in the keyboard engages the keyboard keys to retract the keys into the information handling system when the lid of the information handling system rotates to a closed position and releases the keys to be biased out from the information handling systems when the lid rotates to an open position. |
| US08102645B2 |
Multi-functional switch assembly and portable electronic device using the same
A multi-functional switch assembly and a portable electronic device are disclosed. The portable electronic device includes a housing, a cover, a switch, a base member, a driving member, a switching member, and an elastic member. The driving member is driven to switch on or off the switch, and the switching member is switched between a first state where the base member is secured to the cover, and a second state where the cover is detached from the base member. The elastic member enables the base member slidably relative to the housing between the first state and the second state. |
| US08102643B2 |
Cooling system for high voltage systems
A cooling system for a high voltage system can include a high voltage supply and an electrical component coupled to the high voltage supply. The electrical component can generate heat that needs to be dissipated. The cooling system can include a cooling mechanism for dissipating the heat. The cooling mechanism can include a liquid conduit thermally coupled to the electrical component. The liquid conduit can contain a cooling solution comprising an alcohol having the formula R—OH, wherein R is a hydrocarbon having the formula CnH2n+1 and n is any positive integer between 1 and 6. The cooling system can additionally include a pump and a heat exchanger, each of which may be coupled to the liquid conduit. |
| US08102642B2 |
Large format ultracapacitors and method of assembly
A capacitor includes a plurality of electrode substrates, with each of the plurality of electrode substrates having a coated portion and an uncoated portion. The coated portion is coated with a coating material that includes a high surface area activated carbon material, a water soluble binder selected from the group consisting of: poly vinyl alcohol, poly acrylic acid, polymethacrylic acid, polyethylene oxide, polyacrylamide, poly-N-isopropylearylamide, poly-N,N-dimethylacrylamide, polyethyleneimine, polyoxyethylene, polyvinylsulfonic acid, poly(2-methoxyethoxyethoxyethylene), butadiene-acrylonitrile, and combinations thereof, and a water soluble thickener. A separator is inserted between adjacent substrates of the plurality of electrode substrates. The capacitor further includes an electrolyte. A method of manufacturing the capacitor is also provided. |
| US08102638B2 |
Micro electromechanical capacitive switch
A capacitive switch for microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) comprises a topmost metal plate which extends across a bridge structure formed by a polymer layer. The polymer layer comprises poly-monochoro-para-xylene (parylene-C). The space below the polymer layer contains the second plate on a substrate. Using parylene as the primary bridge material makes the bridge of the MEMS device very flexible and requires a relatively low actuation voltage to pull the bridge down and lower power is required to control the MEMS device. |
| US08102635B2 |
Method and arrangement for triggering a series spark gap
A series spark gap is triggered such that in parallel with partial spark gaps (1, 2) of the series spark gap there are coupled first voltage distribution means. Further, at least in one partial spark gap (1, 2) there is arranged an additional electrode (10) whose voltage is set to a given level by means of second voltage distribution means. The voltage level of the additional electrode (10) is changed by disturbing the voltage distribution of the second voltage distribution means. Thus the spark gap between the main electrode (6a, 6b) of the partial spark gap (1) and the additional electrode (10) will be ignited. Capacity of the second voltage distribution means is lower than that of the first voltage distribution means and consequently the voltage acting over the first voltage distribution means does not change significantly. Thus the voltage determined by the first voltage distribution means acts over the spark gap that is between the additional electrode (10) and the second main electrode (6a, 6b) of the partial spark gap (1) and that will also ignite, which further results in the supply voltage (U) acting only over the second partial spark gap (2), whereby a spark-over will also occur therein. |
| US08102634B2 |
Differential protection method, system and device
A differential protection method in a power network for determining type of fault occurring within the power network. The power network includes a protected object having two or more ends, and a current differential protection device and a current transformer are arranged at each end. The method includes the steps obtaining, at a first end of the protected object, measured values from a second end of the protected object; comparing, at the first end, changes in measured values taken at the first end with changes in the measured values obtained from the second end; and determining, upon the step of comparing changes in measured values showing differing results, type of fault occurring within the power network. |
| US08102628B2 |
Disk drive and head assembly having hole sequences
Embodiments disclose hole sequences that are formed in the metal layer of a trace to adjust rigidity and crosstalk noise resulting from the hole sequences is thereby suppressed. A suspension according to one aspect of the invention includes a trace adapted to transmit a signal of a head slider. The trace partially extends along the side surface of the suspension. The trace includes a metal layer, a plurality of transmission lines formed above the metal layer and an insulating layer. A hole sequence overlapping the transmission lines is formed in part of the metal layer, which contributes to a reduction in transmission loss. Another hole sequence of the metal layer is formed at a position opposed to the hinge portion of the suspension. This reduces the rigidity of the wiring structure portion in the hinge portion, thereby preventing interference with the behavior of the suspension at the hinge portion. |
| US08102626B2 |
Disk drive and head slider
Embodiments of the present invention provide a head slider that suppresses accumulation of lubricant droplets on an air-bearing surface due to a backflow, and thus improves reliability of a disk drive. According to one embodiment, a lubricant droplet being adhered to a head slider and accumulated thereon, which are caused by extremely low flying height of the head slider, are prevented from falling onto a recording medium. When velocity of a recording medium at a position where the head slider faces the recording medium is assumed to be v, step depth δ4 at an outflow side of an outflow side rail satisfies, δ4≦0.1125*log10(v)+0.019. |
| US08102624B2 |
Perpendicular magnetic recording head
In a perpendicular magnetic recording head having a main magnetic pole layer and a return yoke layer which are laminated with a magnetic gap layer interposed therebetween on a medium-opposing surface, a pair of side coils constituting respective electrically closed circuits on a surface parallel to the medium-opposing surface are provided on both sides in a track width direction of a magnetic pole part of the main magnetic pole layer. When a leakage magnetic field spreading from the magnetic pole part of the main magnetic pole layer passes through the pair of side coils, the pair of side coils generate a demagnetizing field in such a direction as to cancel a magnetic flux change thereof, thereby preventing the leakage magnetic flux from spreading. |
| US08102623B2 |
Thin-film magnetic head with a magnetic pole having an inclined step at its top end section surface, magnetic head assembly with the thin-film magnetic head, magnetic disk drive apparatus with the magnetic head assembly, and manufacturing method of thin-film magnetic head
A thin-film magnetic head with a perpendicular magnetic recording structure includes a main pole layer, a nonmagnetic gap layer, and an auxiliary pole layer facing the main pole layer via the nonmagnetic gap layer. A surface of a top end section of the main pole layer has an inclined step that slopes from a lamination plane of the layers. The surface faces a top end section of the auxiliary pole layer. The top end section of the auxiliary pole layer has side shield sections at a position that is not exposed to an ABS. The side shield sections faces at least part of side surfaces in a track-width direction, of the main pole layer so as to cover at least part of the inclined step. |
| US08102620B2 |
Isolating an excitation-sensitive component by elastic wave reflection
An apparatus and associated method for reflecting elastic waves that propagate from an excitation source to an excitation-sensitive component in a device. The device has an enclosure with a base constructed of a first metal. An elastic wave reflector is constructed of a different second metal and is operably affixed to the base. The elastic wave reflector defines a support surface to which the excitation-sensitive component is operably affixed within the enclosure. |
| US08102618B2 |
System, method and apparatus for disk drive recirculation filter having inlet and outlet disk rim shrouding
A hard disk drive has a recirculation filter that shrouds the rims of disks at the inlet and outlet of the filter. The shroud is aerodynamically shaped to reduce flow-induced disk vibration of the read/write head. A significant improvement in non-repeatable run-out is provided when the inlet and outlet are shrouded along the rims of the disks. |
| US08102617B2 |
Method for transporting a tape cartridge within a tape library storage system utilizing a curved rack section and independently rotatable teeth
An apparatus for transporting a storage media cartridge in a data storage library is disclosed. The apparatus includes an accessor, a pinion and a rack having a straight section and a curved section. The curved section includes multiple rack teeth that are capable of rotating independently from each other to allow the pinion to travel along the straight section and onto the curved section of the rack, or vice versa, without any interruption. |
| US08102616B2 |
Magnetic recording medium, method of fabricating the same, and magnetic recording apparatus
According to one embodiment, there is provided a magnetic recording medium having a data region in which a plurality of recording tracks, each including magnetic dots arrayed in a down-track direction with a pitch p, are formed in a cross-track direction, and a servo region including a preamble in which a plurality of lines of magnetic dots, which are arrayed in a cross-track direction with a pitch p, are formed at equal intervals in the down-track direction. |
| US08102613B2 |
System, method and apparatus for determining track pitch in a hard disk drive to satisfy the requirements of both off-track capacity and adjacent track erasure
Track pitch in a hard disk drive is selected to satisfy the requirements of both off-track capacity (OTC) and adjacent track interference (ATI). The invention separately measures the track pitch requirements for OTC and ATI. The track pitch for the drive is set with the larger of the OTC and ATI track pitches. The OTC track pitch is measured with a 747 curve, and the ATI track pitch is measured by the positions of adjacent tracks at which the on-track error rate is not worse than a given value after the targeted number of adjacent track writes in the ATI requirement. |
| US08102606B2 |
Zoom lens system and electronic image pickup apparatus using the same
A zoom lens system includes, in order from an object side, a first lens unit G1 having a positive refracting power, a second lens unit G2 having a negative refracting power, a third lens unit G3 having a positive refracting power, and a fourth lens unit G4 having a positive refracting power, and at the time of zooming from a wide angle end to a telephoto end, a space between the lens units changes, and the second lens unit includes not more than three lenses, and a biconcave negative lens which satisfies the following conditional expression (1) is disposed nearest to the object side, in the second lens unit, and (the zoom lens system) is characterized by satisfying the following conditional expression (2) −0.1 |
| US08102604B2 |
Plastic lens and optical pickup device
A lens has a flange part at the outer periphery of its surface. A flange surface of the flange part is higher than the lens surface. The flange surface has a marking to identify a production jig, for example. |
| US08102597B1 |
Structures and fabrication of whispering-gallery-mode resonators
Devices having whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) resonators configured to meet requirements of various applications and facilitate fabrication of such devices. |
| US08102596B2 |
Optical fiber for amplification
Provided is an erbium doped optical fiber (EDF) for amplification which allows an easy estimation of the amplification performance and high production stability. The fiber includes a core and a cladding. The core is mainly made of silica glass and doped with erbium at a concentration of 500 wtppm or more and 2500 wtppm or less. In the fiber, the cutoff wavelength is 850 nm or more and 1450 nm or less, the mode field diameter is 4.5 μm or more and 6.5 μm or less, the polarization mode dispersion is not more than 0.1 ps per 10 m, the coordination number of oxygen elements around an erbium element in the core is one or more and eight or less, and the bond length between erbium and oxygen is 0.225 nm or more and 0.235 or less. |
| US08102595B2 |
Optical transmission system with optical amplifier gain setup based on difference between signal loss and noise light loss
In an optical transmission system, a controller acquires a noise light loss value, which indicates a loss that noise light output from an upstream-side optical amplifier undergoes during propagation to a downstream-side optical amplifier through an optical loss medium, and a signal beam loss value, which indicates a loss that a signal beam output from the upstream-side optical amplifier undergoes during propagation to the downstream-side optical amplifier through the optical loss medium, obtains, as a loss difference, a difference between the noise light loss value and the signal beam loss value and, when setting up the downstream-side optical amplifier, determines the gain of the downstream-side optical amplifier by compensating the loss difference. |
| US08102593B2 |
Quasi non-critical phase matched and contra-phase matched structures
Adhesive-free bond non-linear optical (NLO) components, devices and systems including one or more engineered quasi non-critical phase matched or contra-phase matched NLO crystal doublets. Such systems and devices advantageously increase the efficiency of NLO frequency conversion and improve beam quality. Devices are applicable to any uniaxial and biaxial NLO crystals in a wide range of wavelengths, e.g., from far ultraviolet to visible to far infrared. Devices employing engineered AFB NLO components according to certain embodiments include any conventional frequency converting architectures. Systems and methods are also provided to unambiguously determine and correct walk-off for any arbitrary uniaxial and biaxial crystal orientation. |
| US08102590B2 |
Method of manufacturing MEMS devices providing air gap control
Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling a depth of a cavity between two layers of a light modulating device. A method of making a light modulating device includes providing a substrate, forming a sacrificial layer over at least a portion of the substrate, forming a reflective layer over at least a portion of the sacrificial layer, and forming one or more flexure controllers over the substrate, the flexure controllers configured so as to operably support the reflective layer and to form cavities, upon removal of the sacrificial layer, of a depth measurably different than the thickness of the sacrificial layer, wherein the depth is measured perpendicular to the substrate. |
| US08102587B2 |
Electrochromic device having controlled infrared reflection
The present invention relates to an electrochromic device having controlled infrared reflection, in particular of the electrically controllable type, comprising, between a carrier substrate (1a) transparent in the infrared range and a counter-substrate (1b), a multilayer stack.The device is characterized in that this multilayer stack comprises, in succession: a) a metal grid (3) transparent in the infrared range, forming a first electrode; b) an electrochromic functional system (5) comprising a layer (EC1) of an ion-storage first electrochromic material, at least one layer (EL1, EL2) having an electrolytic function, and a layer (EC2) of a second electrochromic material; c) a metal layer (7) capable of reflecting the infrared radiation, forming a second electrode; and d) a lamination interlayer (9) made of a thermoplastic polymer. |
| US08102586B2 |
Electronic window shading system for houses, transport vehicles and the like
There is disclosed an automatic electronic window shading (tinting) system for houses and transport vehicles such as automobiles, RV's, trains, boats and the like, to provide shading for people to protect them from exposure to harmful direct sunlight, by providing the windows of said houses and transport vehicles with display elements and light (photocell/photovoltaic) sensors. The system comprises liquid crystal, electrochromic, suspended particle device (SPD), or NanoChromics display (NCD) element attached to a part of a transparent body (such as the windows) and a liquid crystal, electrochromic, suspended particle device (SPD), or NanoChromics display (NCD) controlling semiconductor element controlling the operation of the display element. |
| US08102585B2 |
Functionalized security glazing
Glazing assembly, comprising in succession: a first rigid substrate (S1), a second rigid substrate (S2), at least one active system (3) comprising at least one film and placed between the substrates (S1 and S2), at least one polymer film (f1) having the function of retaining fragments of the glazing assembly should it break, the said film being placed between the substrate (S1) and the substrate (S2), characterized in that the active system (3) is on the inner face (2) of the substrate (S1). |
| US08102580B2 |
Scanning illumination system and method
A method and apparatus for the multi-dimensional control of a light source's brightest point over a targeted area is disclosed. Control and drive electronics are presented to the beam-steering device causing the beam-steering component to steer the spot of light toward a targeted area in at least a two-dimensional scanning pattern about a vertical and horizontal axis. The result is an illuminated pattern displayed on a targeted area that appears to be a solid, uniformly illuminated light pattern, having the intensity of a spot beam and the area of a broad beam. |
| US08102579B2 |
Image processing apparatus, control method of image processing apparatus, program and storage medium
During a display of a slideshow of a composite image comprising a plurality of images, a user operates a print bookmark, resulting in composite images and individual images that can be printed being set and stored as print candidate images. By displaying, in a list, stored candidate images on a display unit as print candidate images, an image processing apparatus is provided which enables the user to specify a desired image for printing. |
| US08102577B2 |
Image reading apparatus and reading control method
An image reading apparatus reads a document on a line-by-line basis by using a reading unit. The image reading apparatus includes a modulation unit configured to modulate a clock signal at a predetermined period, a trigger signal generation unit configured to generate trigger signal for reading one line in the reading unit, a driving signal generation unit configured to generate a driving signal of the reading unit based on the clock signal output from the modulation unit and the trigger signal, and an output unit configured to change output timing of the driving signal within a range of the predetermined period each time the trigger signals are output predetermined times. |
| US08102573B2 |
Image forming apparatus, image reading apparatus and program
The MFP 101 compresses the image data read by the scanner 102 using the JBIG format, and then stores the image data in the image-data storing unit 104. The converting unit 109 of the MFP 101 converts the stored image data into a specific file format and then outputs this converted image data. Herewith, the user need not have the MFP read the original source once again even when image data of that source is requested to be output in a different file format. |
| US08102571B2 |
Image processing apparatus, printer including the same, and image processing method
An image processing apparatus, includes: a first extractor, configured to extract compression data items of a plurality of images to extraction image data items; a corrector, configured to correct the extraction image data items, when the images are printed on a print medium; a second extractor, configured to extract one of the compression data items to a sample image data item; an acquirer, configured to acquire, from the sample image data item, a characteristic information item indicative of image characteristic to be corrected by the correction, in a case where at least parts of the images to be printed are to be overlapped when viewed from a first direction; and a calculator, configured to calculate correction amounts each of which is to be applied to an associated one of the extraction image data items based on the characteristic information item. |
| US08102570B2 |
Method and apparatus for controlling printing of composite black text
A method of controlling a color image forming apparatus, the method including: reducing the C, M, and Y channels from the boundary area of the composite black text, thereby allowing only the K channel to be left on the outermost boundary of the composite black text; and compensating for the K channel by the density of the reduced C, M, and Y areas, so that image distortion generated at the boundary of the composite black text is compensated for, resulting in increased image quality of the printed image of the composite black text. |
| US08102569B1 |
Conversion to alternative color space using a cache
A conversion cache can be used to perform a color conversion by selecting a pixel included in an image, wherein a source color space value is associated with the pixel; locating the source color space value in a conversion cache, wherein the conversion cache is generated in response to transforming the image to an alternative color space; retrieving an alternative color space value corresponding to the source color space value from the conversion cache; and generating a transformed pixel associated with the alternative color space value. Further, it can be determined that a second source color space value associated with a second pixel of the image is not in the conversion cache; the second source color space value can be transformed into a second alternative color space value; and the second source color space value and the corresponding second alternative color space value can be stored in the conversion cache. |
| US08102568B2 |
System for creating garments using camera and encoded card
A garment creation system includes a card, a camera and a processing system. The has printed thereon a depiction of a garment and encoded information. The encoded information carries instructions for generating garments pieces corresponding to the garment and manipulating an input image so as to be mapped onto the garment pieces. The camera and processing system are configured for: optically reading the encoded information on said card; capturing an image; mapping the captured image onto the garment pieces; generating print data for the garment pieces; and communicating the print data to a garment fabric printer. |
| US08102567B2 |
Image forming apparatus and method calculating a deviation between a) a representative point of threshold information I) nearest to the coordinate of a pixel of interest or II) in dither space nearest to the address coordinate of the pixel of interest in dither space, and b) the address coordinate in dither space corresponding to a pixel coordinate of an integer in pixel space or a pixel coordinate of an integer in pixel space nearest to the representative point
An image processing apparatus makes for making the halftone processing that can suppress a periodic pattern by periodically changing the correction amount while suppressing a dispersion in the area of each dot at a low computation cost. |
| US08102566B2 |
Image processing apparatus, method, product for adjusting output profile used for color matching in output devices
An image processing apparatus is provided that can adjust an output profile used for color matching in output devices. The image processing apparatus comprises: a unit to convert a target value of a device-independent color space into a value of a device-dependent color space; a unit to create a color chart to adjust the converted value of the device-dependent color space; a unit to select in the device-independent color space measured values measured from the color chart; a unit to convert the selected measured values into values of device-dependent color space, and calculate a target value of the device-dependent color space corresponding to the target value of the device-independent color space, and a unit to adjust the conversion unit based on the calculated target value of the device-dependent color space. |
| US08102564B2 |
Method and system for color correction using both spatial correction and printer calibration techniques
A system using a spatial correction to improve the result of a printer calibration and correction is described. More particularly, in one form, a spatial correction may be used to pre-condition a printer for an improved color calibration. In another form, spatial correction and color calibration are addressed in the same process for color correction. |
| US08102560B2 |
Device for searching print target image adapted for printable area
The present invention provides an image searching device that searches a print target image adapted for a printable area only by setting a template for the printable area and a search condition necessary to search the print target image. The image searching device inputs shape information on the printable area. Then, the image searching device sets the image search condition. Then, the image searching device searches the print target image from a plurality of images on the basis of the shape information on the printable area, and the image search condition. According to the image searching device, upon printing of an image in a specially-shaped printable area, a print target image adapted for the printable area can be automatically searched only by setting a shape of the printable area, and an image search condition, resulting in improvement of searching efficiency. |
| US08102557B2 |
System and method for disabling access to non-volatile storage in a multi-function peripheral
A multi-function peripheral (MFP) device having enhanced security for processed data is disclosed. The MFP includes both a non-volatile memory and a volatile memory. The MFP also includes a user interface configured to allow a user to prevent data from being stored on the non-volatile memory. The MFP further includes a processor or a switch configured to disable access to the non-volatile memory. The MFP blocks data from being stored on its non-volatile memory upon a user's selection via the user interface. The data is only temporarily stored on the volatile memory, and is erased after processing. This configuration prevents others from having access to the data. |
| US08102555B2 |
Image forming system and method of controlling image forming system
A configuration of an image forming system that includes an image forming apparatus and at least one of a paper feed apparatus and a post-process apparatus is defined based on system configuration information including a combination of identification information for the apparatuses and setting information for the order of arrangement of the apparatuses corresponding to the identification information without using a dedicated line connection. |
| US08102554B2 |
Optical imaging pen having a force sensor
Provided is an optical imaging pen configured to detect information encoded with infrared ink on a page. The pen includes a housing with an ink pen cartridge and a stylus. The ink cartridge and stylus are configured to be individually brought forward through an open end of the housing by rotation of a pen top rotatably mounted on an end of the housing. The pen also includes an infrared LED inside the housing for providing infrared radiation for projection onto the page, and an image sensor for receiving reflected radiation from the surface. Also included is a radio frequency circuit having a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and receiver, and a controller for controlling operation of the LED, sensor and radio frequency circuits. The controller includes a force sensor configured to detect displacement of the stylus or cartridge to enable a determination of a force being applied to a nib of either the cartridge or stylus. |
| US08102552B2 |
Performance monitoring and control of a multifunction printer
A method and system for monitoring performance of a multifunction printer (MFP) throughout the lifetime of the MFP. The MFP may include a task run-time controller to collect performance information from the MFP and to transmit the performance information to a receiver such as a host, an MFP front panel, or a website. The task run-time controller may include a high resolution timer to collect task execution times or idle time for tasks running on the MFP. The task run-time controller may also receive internal task scheduling policy alterations based on an analysis of the performance information. |
| US08102546B2 |
Information processing apparatus and information processing method
An apparatus determines a type of a printing paper which is fed from a paper feed port of a printer. If it is determined that a print setting of a print target page does not match the type of printing paper fed from the paper feed port, the apparatus requests the printer to eject the printing paper set in the paper feed port and sends data of a print target page if a print setting of a print target page matches a type of a printing paper fed from the paper feed port after the printer has executed a paper ejection, or alternatively, the apparatus stores information about the print target page and determines whether a print setting of a page to be sent subsequent to the print target page in the print data matches the type of a printing paper fed from the paper feed port. |
| US08102542B2 |
Method and apparatus for layer thickness measurement
A technique for optical measurement of a thickness of a layer on a surface uses diffuse reflections at opposite boundaries of the layer, operates on transparent, or translucent layers. The thickness is determined by computing a separation between the centers of the two diffuse reflections, and using the index of refraction of the layer, and geometric properties of a beam and detector with respect to the surface. The technique is useful for quantifying thickness of a layer of rime ice, glaze ice, frosted ice, or water, for example. |
| US08102541B2 |
Apparatus and method for measuring structures on a mask and or for calculating structures in a photoresist resulting from the structures
An apparatus (1) for measuring structures (3) on a mask (2) and for calculating structures in a photoresist on a wafer resulting from the structures (3) on the mask (2) is disclosed, wherein the apparatus (1) comprises at least one incident-light illumination means (14) and/or one transmitted-light illumination means (6), wherein the apparatus (1) comprises at least one imaging optics (9) and a detector (11) of a camera (10) for imaging the structures (3) on the mask (2), wherein a first computer program (17) is associated with the detector (11) of the camera (10) and provided for determining the position and/or the dimension of the structure (3) on the mask (2). A method for measuring structures (3) on a mask (2) and for calculating structures in a photoresist on a wafer to be expected from the structures (3) on the mask (2) is also disclosed. |
| US08102540B2 |
Coriolis flow sensor with optically reflective motion sensor
A Coriolis flow sensor with at least one vibrating flow tube through which a medium flows, includes elements for exciting the tube, and optical detection element for determining the movements of one or several points of the tube based on the principle of reflection of a light beam against the photosensitive surface of a light sensor. The light beam is directed at the tube wall, at a layer provided on this wall, or at an element fastened against this wall, wherein elements for shaping the beam are arranged for making the convergence of the beam in the direction of movement of the tube associated with the Coriolis forces smaller than the convergence in the direction of movement of the tube associated with the excitation forces. The sensitivity in the detection of the small movements of the tube caused by the Coriolis forces is enhanced. |
| US08102538B2 |
Method and apparatus for colour imaging a three-dimensional structure
Provided is a device for determining the surface topology and associated color of a structure, such as a teeth segment, including a scanner for providing depth data for points along a two-dimensional array substantially orthogonal to the depth direction, and an image acquisition means for providing color data for each of the points of the array, while the spatial disposition of the device with respect to the structure is maintained substantially unchanged. A processor combines the color data and depth data for each point in the array, thereby providing a three-dimensional color virtual model of the surface of the structure. A corresponding method for determining the surface topology and associated color of a structure is also provided. |
| US08102533B2 |
Total reflection illuminated sensor chip
A total reflection illuminated sensor chip is employed to detect a target substance, by: supplying a sample containing the target substance onto a detecting portion formed on a surface of a dielectric prism, irradiating a measuring light beam onto the interface between the prism and the detecting portion through a transmitting surface of the prism such that conditions for total reflection are satisfied, and utilizing evanescent waves generated at the detecting portion. The sensor chip includes a protective member for protecting the transmitting surface. The protective member is provided a predetermined distance away from the transmitting surface to form a transmitting space, which is open at least toward the downward direction. The sensor chip is configured such that the interface can be irradiated by the measuring light beam that enters the transmitting space from below the transmitting space and passes through the transmitting surface. |
| US08102529B2 |
Refractive index matching in capillary illumination
System and method for fluorescent light excitation and detection from samples to enhance the numerical aperture and/or reduce the cross-talk of the fluorescent light. |
| US08102525B2 |
Systems and methods for detecting chemical and biological substances
A method for detecting an ingredient in a food product or detecting a disease includes allowing a food sample solution obtained from a food product or a body fluid from an individual to come to contact with a nano-scale surface structure in a sensor, wherein the nano-scale surface structure comprises a plurality of columns over a substrate or a plurality of holes in a substrate. The method includes illuminating the food sample solution or the body fluid on the nano-scale surface structure on the sensor by a laser beam; obtaining a Raman spectrum from the scattered light using a spectral analyzer; and identifying the spectral signature in the Raman spectrum to determine the existence of the chemical substance in the food product or identifying a disease in the individual. |
| US08102524B2 |
Degree-of-dispersion determination method for single-walled carbon nanotubes and degree-of-dispersion determination apparatus for single-walled carbon nanotubes
Laser light having an energy of 1.9±0.1 eV is projected onto a carbon nanotube-containing substance so that a Raman spectrum is acquired. On the basis of the intensity of a peak at Raman shift 221±5 cm−1 caused by aggregates of single-walled carbon nanotubes, the degree of dispersion of single-walled carbon nanotubes in the carbon nanotube-containing substance is determined. A lower intensity of the peak indicates a higher degree of dispersion in the carbon nanotube-containing substance. As such, when the intensity of a particular peak contained in a Raman spectrum is measured, the degree of dispersion of single-walled carbon nanotubes in a carbon nanotube-containing substance can be evaluated easily and clearly. |
| US08102523B1 |
Method of use of reusable sample holding device permitting ready loading of very small wet samples
A method for using a reusable sample-holding device for readily loading very small wet samples for observation of the samples by microscopic equipment, in particular in a vacuum environment. The method may be used with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), a transmission electron microscope (TEM), an X-ray microscope, optical microscope, and the like. For observation of the sample, the method provides a thin-membrane window etched in the center of each of two silicon wafers abutting to contain the sample in a small uniform gap formed between the windows. This gap may be adjusted by employing spacers. Alternatively, the thickness of a film established by the fluid in which the sample is incorporated determines the gap without need of a spacer. To optimize resolution each window may have a thickness on the order of 50 nm and the gap may be on the order of 50 nm. |
| US08102520B2 |
Methods and systems for inspection and/or identification of pellet-shaped articles
A conveyer mechanism may include one or more composition inspection units provided along the intended product transport path. The product's composition, e.g., its ink composition, is compared with a predetermined standard, to determine whether the product is acceptable. A bar code may be provided to an external surface of the article for identification/traceability purposes. |
| US08102517B2 |
Method of differentiating between blood and control solutions containing a common analyte
Glucose measured in blood samples is distinguished from glucose measured in the control solutions used to test the optical instruments which make such measurements. The control solutions contain a labeling substance recognized by the optical instrument to distinguish glucose measurements made of control solutions from those made of blood samples. |
| US08102516B2 |
Test method for compound-eye distance measuring apparatus, test apparatus, and chart used for the same
Provided is a test method for accurately testing all regions within a field of view and evaluating, by one-time capturing, accuracy of a distance measured by a compound-eye distance measuring apparatus having two baseline directions. The test method includes: placing a test chart at a predetermined distance from a compound-eye distance measuring apparatus; measuring a distance to the test chart by the compound-eye distance measuring apparatus; and calculating a difference between the predetermined distance and the measured distance, and evaluating whether the calculated difference is within a predetermined value range, wherein, on the test chart, elements in a predetermined geometric pattern are two-dimensionally arranged in the first arrangement direction and the second arrangement direction, the first arrangement direction being tilted by a predetermined angle with respect to the first baseline direction, and the second arrangement direction being tilted by a predetermined angle with respect to the second baseline direction. |
| US08102515B2 |
Measuring device
The invention relates to a measuring instrument, particularly a hand-held instrument (10) for measuring distances, comprising at least one transmission branch (28) for a test signal and adjustable switching means (36) for deflecting the test signal. The switching means (36) reflect at least a portion of the test signal in a first switched position (42) while unblocking the transmission branch (28) for the measuring radiation in a second switched position (42′). According to the invention, the switching means (36) reflect the measuring radiation in a diffuse manner in the first switched position (42). Also disclosed is a method for producing such a measuring instrument. |
| US08102511B2 |
Lithographic apparatus with enhanced spectral purity, device manufacturing method and device manufactured thereby
A lithographic apparatus includes an illumination system configured to condition a radiation beam; a support configured to support a patterning device, the patterning device being configured to impart the radiation beam with a pattern in its cross-section to form a patterned radiation beam; a substrate table configured to hold a substrate; and a projection system configured to project the patterned radiation beam onto a target portion of the substrate, wherein the radiation beam is reflected from at least one grazing incidence mirror that enhances the spectral purity of the radiation beam. |