| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08397307B2 |
Computer-implemented multi-resource shared lock
In one embodiment of a computer-implemented system, comprising a plurality of computer entities and multiple resources, one of the computer entities may request a multi-resource lock to one of the multiple resources; the one resource determines whether a resource lock is available at the one resource and, if so, the one resource communicates with all peer resources to determine whether a resource lock is available; if the peer resources indicate a resource lock is available, lock all of the resources to the requesting computer entity, and the one resource communicates the lock of the resources to the requesting computer entity; and if any the resource indicates contention for the multi-resource lock, the one resource communicates the contention to the requesting computer entity, and the requesting computer entity backs off the multi-resource lock request and, after a random time interval, repeats the request. |
| US08397306B1 |
Security domain in virtual environment
A system, method and computer program product for an isolated security domain which is a bounded area of the VM for protected objects. The objects are software units (including executable code data), hardware units (e.g., ports) or a combination thereof. The secure units in this area are accessible using secure rules used to ensure that objects are not malware. Authentication for connections to security domain is required and certain areas of the domain are made to be read only. |
| US08397303B2 |
Memory controller, nonvolatile storage system, and data management method
In a memory controller according to the present invention, an external I/F unit receives ID information associated with data from the outside of a non-volatile memory, and a recording controller manages a recording position of the data in the non-volatile memory based on the ID information, so that an amount of time necessary for the retrieval of rights information based on the ID information is reduced. |
| US08397295B1 |
Method and apparatus for detecting a rootkit
A method and apparatus for detecting a rootkit is described. In one embodiment, a method for detecting a rootkit comprises analyzing file system information associated with a plurality of files that form a volume, wherein a first portion of the file system information comprises metadata information for a master file table and a second portion comprises at least one master file table record and identifying an inconsistency within the file system information where the inconsistency indicates a modification to the file system information by a rootkit. |
| US08397294B2 |
Apparatus, system and method for preventing data loss
A device and method are provided for a device that communicates security information to a user entering content into the device. In an aspect, the device may access content from a server over a connection through the network. The device displays the content on a user interface of the device. The device detects information entered into a field of the displayed content and evaluates a security state of the device. If the security state is below a security threshold and, if the entered information is identified as protected information based on stored criteria, the device displaying a visual indication on the user interface. |
| US08397292B2 |
Method and device for online secure logging-on
The invention discloses a method for an online secure logging-on, comprises steps of: determining a correlation between at least one of processes and a logging-on operation; sorting the at least one of processes to two classes, that is, processes related to the logging-on operation and processes unrelated to the logging-on operation; running at least one of the processes related to the logging-on operation, when the logging-on operation is performed and a number of the processes related to the logging-on operation is one or more; and suspending at least one of the 1o processes unrelated to the logging-on operation, when the logging-on operation is performed and a number of the processes unrelated to the logging-on operation is one or more. The scheme of the present invention utilizes a real-time protection, needs less monitoring on the operating system and is easy to guarantee the stability. Since most processes of the operating system are suspended, the protection is more reliable. Corresponding to the method, the present invention also provides a device for an online secure logging-on. |
| US08397291B2 |
Access control system, device, and program
A device that relieves a service provider of the burden of managing personal information. A group administration organization device admits a user device to an authorized group by request and sends authority permission information to the user device. The user device holds the authority permission information received from the group administration organization device and, on access, sends authority proof information created from the authority permission information using a group signature scheme to a service provider device as requested by it. The service provider device, upon being accessed, requests the authority proof information and verifies the authority proof information received from the user device in accordance with the request on the basis of the group signature scheme. When the verification result indicates validity, the service provider device provides a service. Thus, there is no need for the service provider to manage personal information of the user because the user device proves to the service provider device using the group signature scheme that it belongs to the authorized group. |
| US08397289B2 |
Method for removable element authentication in an embedded system
The present invention proposes a method for protecting and monitoring removable entities in an embedded system. In accordance with the present invention, prior to insertion of a removable entity in the embedded system, a user registers details of the removable entity in the device host. The details may be entered after entering a password or a PIN. A registration identification is calculated based on an algorithm in the device host and is then stored in the host. After the removable entity is inserted, it is registered in an unalterable area (e.g. flash memory) of the device host. Information such as the category of the removable entity, a device number, etc. may be exchanged between the device host and the removable entity. The device host then computes a registration identification based on a Removable Entity Registration Algorithm. The identifications are then compared, and the device host displays the details of the removable entity to the user. |
| US08397286B2 |
Bidirectional gateway with enhanced security level
A bidirectional gateway with enhanced security level between a high-security communication network and a low-security communication network. The return pathway from the low-security network to the high-security network comprises a low-speed link. The physical layer of the low-speed link differs from the physical layers involved in the high-security network and the low-security network. The low-speed link having a linking layer according to a protocol differing from the protocols used on the linking layers used on the high-security network and the low-security network. The linking layer of the low-speed link has an authentication protocol to guarantee the data's origin. |
| US08397284B2 |
Detection of distributed denial of service attacks in autonomous system domains
A denial-of-service network attack detection system is deployable in single-homed and multi-homed stub networks. The detection system maintains state information of flows entering and leaving the stub domain to determine if exiting traffic exceeds traffic entering the system. Monitors perform simple processing tasks on sampled packets at individual routers in the network at line speed and perform more intensive processing at the routers periodically. The monitors at the routers form an overlay network and communicate pertinent traffic state information between nodes. The state information is collected and analyzed to determine the presence of an attack. |
| US08397282B2 |
Dynamically adaptive network firewalls and method, system and computer program product implementing same
A system, method, and computer program product for controlling data through a firewall which may be dynamically configurable. The method may comprise defining at least one node, wherein the at least one node is associated with two or more network interfaces; associating a set of firewall rules with the at least one node; receiving a packet at a first node of the at least one node; and accepting or denying the packet based on the set of firewall rules. The firewall rules include dynamic chains of rules having defined places where firewall rules may be dynamically inserted into or deleted from the firewall while the firewall is operating on one or more machines connected to network segments where the nodes reside. |
| US08397281B2 |
Service assisted secret provisioning
A method for providing a secret that is provisioned to a first device to a second device includes generating a One-Time Password at the first device using the secret and obtaining an identifier of the secret. The method also includes providing the One-Time Password and the identifier to the second device and sending the One-Time Password and the identifier to a remote provisioning service. The method also includes verifying that the One-Time Password corresponds to the secret, and sending to the second device an encrypted secret and a decryption key for decrypting the encrypted secret. The encrypted secret and the decryption key may be sent using different communications methods. The method also includes decrypting the encrypted secret using the decryption key to provide the secret and storing the secret at the second device. |
| US08397279B2 |
Method and system of network integrity via digital authorization (NIDA) for enhanced internet security
A novel method for online authentication of an authorized website is described to prevent the circulation of forged web pages on the World Wide Web. The novel feature of the instant invention is encryption-independent method of securing online transactions by authenticating the server to the client and client to the server. In the instant invention the approach is deployed in curbing the menace of spoofed websites on the World Wide Web by allowing the delivery of only those web pages that are authentic and hosted on an authorized remote server. The method comprises of a graphic representation of the identity of the authorized remote server on the visible portion of the web page served by that remote server. Such graphic representation is capable of being scanned, read and allowed access, only if resolved to the identity of the authorized remote server every time that web page is requested by another authorized computer connected to the Internet. |
| US08397272B2 |
Multi-stream digital display interface
Multiple video streams can be transmitted over a high speed link. A connection with a receiver can be detected by a transmitter. The transmitter can then establish a link with the receiver. Multiple streams of video data can be packed into a transfer unit. The transmitter can then transmit the transfer unit with the multiple stream video data over one or more lanes of the link to the receiver. A high speed communications link between a receiver and a transmitter can transmit data for multiple video streams over a single lane within a data link. The high speed communication link is scalable in bandwidth and video/audio streams transmitted, and backward compatible with other types of video data communication connections. The high speed link may support up to eight video/audio streams simultaneously, thereby enabling full use of data link bandwidth. |
| US08397267B2 |
Hi-split upstream design for DOCSIS
In one embodiment, upstream transmission throughput in a cable network is markedly increased by moving up the US/DS frequency split by approximately an order of magnitude to a few hundred MHz. Additional transceivers (carriers) may be implemented to take advantage of the broader spectrum. A block of multiple upstream carriers (FIG. 2A) are associated to form a single logical upstream providing a high-bandwidth, in-order packet stream. The carriers have a common start time (704), pursuant to a single MAP message, and operation synchronously to transmit an upstream transmission frame (250). They may use OFDM or discrete carriers. A convergence layer (350) assembles the data from all of the upstream channels (320,322,324) for presentation to the MAC layer logic (308,310) as a single, serial, high-speed transmission from the CM. |
| US08397266B2 |
Integration of media playback components with an independent timing specification
A software framework that allows seamless integration of generic media players into a web browser. A media player is a software module that implements specific interfaces; defines a playing state, such as playing, paused, or stopped; and associates with the playing state a current playback time. A generic media player implements interfaces, including timing interfaces and playback synchronization interfaces for exchanging timing and synchronization information with a web browser. A player-hosting peer, which is a software component built into the browser, manages generic player hosting by a web browser. The player-hosting peer negotiates playback state and rendering status between the browser and the media player. Both the media player and the player-hosting peer maintain playing state and current playback time. The relationship between the peer and the player is a master slave relationship, with the peer being the master. The peer issues commands to the player, and the player notifies the peer of any state changes. A proxy layer allows external media players to integrate seamlessly into a browser. |
| US08397265B2 |
Method and device for the continuous transmission of a video in a communication network
The invention relates to a method for the continuous transmission of a video from a server to a number of client machines over a communication network, comprising the following steps: obtaining requests from client machines, at least some of the requests obtained each specifying at least one spatial zone of interest in one or more images of the video, a spatial zone representing a set of digital data, processing the requests obtained so as to determine one or more intersections defining common data between the spatial zones of interest of the video, creating a multipoint network session for each intersection thus determined. |
| US08397262B2 |
Systems and methods for graphical control of user interface features in a television receiver
Systems and methods provide for graphically providing features on a set top box (STB) or other television receiver in response to viewer instructions received from a remote control. Imagery including various tiles each corresponding to one of the provided features is presented on the display. A two-dimensional input is received from the remote control that indicates a selected one of the plurality of tiles, and, in response to the received two-dimensional input, the feature associated with the selected tile is provided. |
| US08397261B2 |
User classifiable set-top box
One embodiment may take the form of an apparatus for providing separate user classifications and interfaces to multiple users of a set-top box of the television system. Each user classification may be configurable to provide different interfaces, menus and available features to the users of the set-top box. Further, each user classification may include several sub-classifications to further personalize the set-top box to the various users of the system. Also, each user classification may also monitor the habits and usage of each class and store such information for use by the set-top box to suggest settings of the set-top box that the user may be interested in, such as a favorite channel list. |
| US08397258B2 |
Image display apparatus and method for operating an image display apparatus
A method and an apparatus may provide thumbnail images for a display. A plurality of thumbnail images may be generated based on television channels that have been tuned during a first prescribed time period. A channel list including the plurality of thumbnail images may be provided for output to a display. At least one additional thumbnail image may be generated based on at least one additional television channel that has been tuned during a second time period, the second time period being a time period subsequent to the first time period. The channel list may be updated to further include the at least one additional thumbnail image with the plurality of thumbnail images. The updated channel list may be output to a display. |
| US08397257B1 |
Systems and methods for using an interactive television program guide to access fantasy sports contests
Systems and methods for using an interactive television program guide application to access fantasy sports contests are presented. In some embodiments of the present invention, the interactive television program guide application may display information indicating to a user that one or more programs is related to a fantasy sports contest. In some embodiments of the present invention, the application may provide to the user a schedule of programs related to one or more fantasy sports contests in which the user participates. The application may provide additional features to fantasy sports contestants including automatic recording of programs related to a user's fantasy sports contest, playback of highlight video clips for events that affect a user's fantasy sports contest standing, and targeted advertisements for fantasy sports contests. |
| US08397253B2 |
Inserting personalized information into digital content
Described are methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, for inserting personalized information into digital content. A request for digital video content is received by a computing device. The request includes authentication data associated with a user of a client device. Personalized data to be inserted into the requested video content is generated by the computing device. The personalized data and the requested video content are combined by the computing device. The combining includes replacing one or more frames of the requested video content with the personalized data to generate personalized video content. |
| US08397245B2 |
Managing loading and unloading of shared kernel extensions in isolated virtual space
Some embodiments of the inventive subject matter are directed to receiving a request from a first instance of an operating system (e.g., a virtual operating system) to load a kernel extension that extends functionality of a kernel, where the kernel and the first instance of the operating system are managed by a second instance of the operating system (e.g., a global operating system), and where the first and second instances of the operating system share the kernel. Some embodiments are further directed to loading the kernel extension as a shared kernel extension. Some embodiments are further directed to receiving a request by the first instances of the operating system to unload the kernel extension and determining that a third instance of the operating system (e.g., another virtual operating system also managed by the global operating system) requires the kernel extension to remain loaded. Some embodiments are further directed to notifying the first instance of the operating system that the kernel extension was unloaded while leaving the kernel extension loaded in the kernel. |
| US08397243B2 |
On-vehicle relay connection unit
It is possible to reduce the memory capacity of a buffer of relay connection unit and reduce the time required for deciding a message to be transmitted. A relay connection unit is arranged between bushes to which electronic control units are connected and relays a message transmitted and received between the electronic control units belonging to different bushes. The relay connection unit includes: a buffer which temporarily stores message in the order to receptions; a storage unit which stores the priority set for each of the message; and a processing unit which extracts N message in the order of the receptions from the buffer, reads the priorities of the respective messages extracted from the storage unit, compares the priorities of the N messages, and transmits the message having the highest priority. |
| US08397239B2 |
Virtual computer systems and computer virtualization programs
Disclosed are a virtual computer system and method, wherein computer resources are automatically and optimally allocated to logical partitions according to loads to be accomplished by operating systems in the logical partitions and setting information based on a knowledge of workloads that run on the operating systems. Load measuring modules are installed on the operating systems in order to measure the loads to be accomplished by the operating systems. A manager designates the knowledge concerning the workloads on the operating systems through a user interface. An adaptive control module determines the allocation rations of the computer resources relative to the logical partitions according to the loads and the settings, and issues an allocation varying instruction to a hypervisor so as to thus instruct variation of allocations. |
| US08397238B2 |
Thread allocation and clock cycle adjustment in an interleaved multi-threaded processor
Methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable storage media are disclosed for reducing power by reducing hardware-thread toggling in a multi-threaded processor. In a particular embodiment, a method allocates software threads to hardware threads. A number of software threads to be allocated is identified. It is determined when the number of software threads is less than a number of hardware threads. When the number of software threads is less than the number of hardware threads, at least two of the software threads are allocated to non-sequential hardware threads. A clock signal to be applied to the hardware threads is adjusted responsive to the non-sequential hardware threads allocated. |
| US08397237B2 |
Dynamically allocating threads from a thread pool to thread boundaries configured to perform a service for an event
Each of a plurality of thread boundaries comprises functionality to be performed for a given event by a single thread. A plurality of queues through which events may be routed may be coupled to the thread boundaries. A plurality of tasks may be configured in a defined relationship, each task being associated with a thread boundary and comprising a unit of code for performing a specific function. Resources may be allocated to thread boundaries based on queue depth. |
| US08397234B2 |
Determining a priority value for a thread for execution on a multithreading processor system
An apparatus for determining a priority value for a thread for execution on a multithreading processor system includes: a base value register for depositing a priority base value; and an evaluation unit for determining the priority value of the thread for execution on the multithreading processor system subject to the priority base value and an application priority value delivered from a thread's application. |
| US08397232B2 |
Virtual machine system employing virtual batteries and a virtual battery manager managing a virtual battery for running a virtual machine
A virtual machine system includes a virtual battery manager, a discharge calculator, and a discharger. The virtual battery manager manages a virtual battery for running a virtual machine. The virtual battery holds electric energy used by the virtual machine. The virtual battery is capable of discharging and being charged. The discharge calculator calculates a discharged amount of the virtual battery by calculating energy consumption of the virtual machine with reference to a consumption policy and a consumption allocation table when a resource quota for the virtual machine satisfies a predefined condition for discharging. The consumption policy defines a maximum amount of total energy consumption of the plurality of virtual machines. The consumption allocation table contains an allocated ratio of energy consumption for each of the plurality of virtual machines. The discharger decreases a battery level of the virtual battery. |
| US08397231B2 |
Monitoring of virtual operating systems using specialized packet recognized by hypervisor and rerouted to maintenance operating system
Hypervisors are a new technology in the industry that enable multiple Operating Systems to co-exist on a single client. The use of a hypervisor provides a novel approach to determining the operability of an Operating System. Each Operating System is a virtualized Operating System, with its own IP address. According to a preferred embodiment, the capability Operating System has an application that is a monitor program that runs and provides information that is sent to the maintenance Operating System. The monitor program sends a status packet at regular intervals, which contains system power state and is a confirmation that the system is not hung. If the maintenance Operating System does not receive a packet at a regular interval, or in response to a query, then the maintenance Operating System will be aware that the capability Operating System is hung and will take appropriate measures. |
| US08397226B2 |
Pattern matching over structured literals
A computer programming language, computer-readable medium and method for pattern matching over structured literals (e.g., XML literals, object literals, type literals, code literals, etc.). The programming language may have a pattern defined in an object-oriented programming language. The pattern may be a structured literal that is capable of matching a value contained in an incoming data stream. The structured literal may include one or more variables, which may be bound to the value if the pattern matches the value. |
| US08397221B2 |
Calculating resource bounds of programs manipulating recursive data structures and collections
Bounding resource consumption of code that processes recursive data structures and collections includes making use of quantitative functions (based on user input) that are associated with a tuple of data-structures and whose semantics is specified by describing the effect of various data-structure methods on the relevant quantitative functions. Counter variables are incorporated into source code to count loop iterations (and number of recursive procedure call invocations). Relevant quantitative functions are incorporated into the source code to allow computation of invariants (and hence bounds) on the incorporated counter variables in terms of the quantitative functions. |
| US08397219B2 |
Method and apparatus for tracking enregistered memory locations
Described is a system that tracks enregistered memory locations. The system receives program object code that enregisters a memory location (e.g., a set of data at a given memory address) and executes the program code using a thread. Enregistering memory locations involves using additional registers to cache frequently used memory locations while the object code is executing, these additional registers being available on an architecture on which the program executes, but generally not available on an architecture for which the object code was generated. After enregistering the memory location, the system uses a table that identifies enregistered memory locations to track the associated memory address and a thread identifier for the thread. The system checks this table during memory accesses to ensure that other threads attempting to access an enregistered memory location receive a current value for the enregistered memory location. |
| US08397218B2 |
Step granularity selection in a software debugger
A debugger allows a programmer to select the granularity of a line step function. Using a debugger step statement, the programmer can specify line step, statement step, or automatic selection. When the user specifies line step in the debugger statement, the debugger functions in true line step mode, where a line of source code is executed for each step. When the user specifies statement step in the debugger statement, the debugger functions in statement step mode, where a statement is executed for each step. When the user specifies automatic selection in the debugger statement, the program is analyzed, and a decision regarding whether to use line step or statement step is made based on the characteristics of the program and based on user-specified selection criteria. In this manner the function of the debugger when line stepping can vary according to the programmer's needs. |
| US08397214B2 |
Generating a hardware description for a programmable hardware element based on a graphical program including multiple physical domains
Generating a hardware description for a programmable hardware element based on a graphical program including multiple physical domains. A graphical program may be received which includes a first portion of a first physical domain for simulating a first portion of a physical system. The graphical program may include a second portion of a second physical domain for simulating a second portion of the physical system. A hardware description may be generated based on the graphical program. The hardware description may describe a hardware implementation of the graphical program. The hardware description may be configured to configure a programmable hardware element to simulate the physical system. |
| US08397213B2 |
Hardware programming and layout design
The invention relates to programming hardware for useful data processing also used in the form of a suitable graphical editor. The inventive method consists in providing a plurality of modules, wherein each module can carry out at least one function for useful data processing, in defining the module connecting interfaces, in establishing, by a user, an additional connection of modules (topology) corresponding to a sequence of functions suitable for useful data processing, in classifying the modules into a plurality of module types according to predefined properties, in defining connection rules indicating admissible connections for different module types according to said types of modules in programming the hardware according to said topology. |
| US08397212B2 |
Module hosting and content generation platform
A module hosting and content generation platform in a social network site. In particular embodiments, a method includes receiving, from a network application, one or more module requests for module output data, wherein each module request includes a module identifier, an instance identifier, and user identifier, a module identifier; retrieving configuration information from the user configuration data store based on each of the one or more module requests; retrieving a module view definition from the module data store; generating the module output data by merging user configuration data with the retrieved module view definition; and performing additional processing operations based on the view type associated with the module; and transmitting the module output data to the network application. |
| US08397211B2 |
Web portal application customization method and system using profiles
Web portal application customization methods and systems using profiles allow developers to expose different functionalities and a different look and feel to users belonging to different user profiles. Specifically, the method allows a developer to define default and profile-specific transitions as well as default and profile-specific states. Upon request of a transition by a workflow engine, the system transparently provides the workflow engine with a profile-specific transition if a profile-specific transition associated with the user is available. If a profile-specific transition is not available, the system provides the application with a default transition. Likewise, the system transparently provides the application with a profile-relevant state according to the profile of the user and the availability of a profile-specific state. Accordingly, the method may implement highly customizable functionalities and look and feel effectively and cost-efficiently. |
| US08397207B2 |
Logical structure design surface
Embodiments are provided for displaying components for visually designing logical structures or macros. In one embodiment, a logical surface component is displayed which may include a design surface. The design surface may be utilized to display data which make up one or more macros. The design surface may be selected for receiving macro data. The received data, which represents a macro design, may then be displayed in the design surface on a display device. In another embodiment, controls for navigating within logical surface components utilized for designing macros may be displayed on a display device. A logical surface component which includes a hierarchical grouping of macro actions may be displayed. One more actions may be selected and an instruction may be received in a visual interface to move selected actions among the hierarchical grouping. In response to receiving the move instruction, the selected actions which were moved may be displayed. |
| US08397206B2 |
XML board support customization
A markup language file comprises software build options usable to determine at least one software build configuration setting. One or more software build options are specified in a markup language file to specify one or more software build configuration settings for use in compilation of software. The markup language is an XML file, is editable in an Integrated Development Environment such as via a Graphical User Interface, and includes settings specific to an embedded processor system configuration. |
| US08397185B1 |
Graphical user aid for technology migration and associated methods
A graphical user aid that may be used for migrating source devices, such as programmable logic designs (PLDs or FPGAs) into target devices, such as equivalent or substitute application-specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”) is provided. A device selector guide is provided for evaluating migration prospects from the source device to the target device before completing the migration. |
| US08397184B2 |
Channel length scaling for footprint compatible digital library cell design
A library cell is designed, and then the width of the polys is increased, and the polys and contacts are shifted in order to maintain poly-to-poly and contact-to-poly spacing. The method can be used in association with a 45 nm digital library cell. Specifically, a library cell having 40 nm polys is designed, and then the width of each of the polys is increased by 5 nm to 45 nm, and the polys and contacts are shifted in order to maintain poly-to-poly and contact-to-poly spacing. The poly lines and contacts can be shifted by starting at the center and going out radially, or by beginning at the perimeter and moving radially inward. The method can be used with any library cell design which is entirely GDS based, including, for example, 32 nm library cell design. |
| US08397181B2 |
Method and apparatus for marking a position of a real world object in a see-through display
A method for marking a position of a real world object on a see-through display is provided. The method includes capturing an image of a real world object with an imaging device. A viewing angle and a distance to the object are determined. A real world position of the object is calculated based on the viewing angle to the object and the distance to the object. A location on the see-through display that corresponds to the real world position of the object is determined. A mark is then displayed on the see-through display at the location that corresponds to the real world object. |
| US08397180B2 |
Scrolling browser with previewing area
A method of browsing an ordered set of items on a display device is disclosed. The method displays the ordered set of items as ordered subsets (301-308) of the items, the subsets being arranged in parallel, each subset comprising a corresponding number (310, 311, 312) of a plurality of the items. The method selects one item (310) from one subset (305) as a focus item. The method then spatially separates the items preceding and the items following the focus item in the ordered set and displays the focus item in a different relative spatial arrangement (702) compared to the remaining displayed items. |
| US08397174B2 |
Order receiving apparatus and order receiving method
An order receiving apparatus includes: a receiving unit configured to receive selection of a task other than an order task related to an order of a menu item; and a display control unit configured to display an order input screen including an area in which an operation image for operating execution of the order task is displayed and an area in which an operation image for operating execution of the task, the selection of which is received, is displayed. |
| US08397172B2 |
Configuring a textual language program on a first device to invoke a graphical program on a second device
A system and method for creating and using configuration diagrams for configuring distributed systems. The methods described herein may be used for various types of operations in configuring distributed systems, including creating programs, managing programs in the distributed system, deploying programs to various distributed devices, configuring remote execution or inter-operation of distributed programs, and executing distributed applications. Embodiments of the invention utilize graphical iconic-based techniques for performing the above operations. The configuration diagram may include device icons which represent devices and program icons which represent programs. Device icons and program icons may be associated with each other to accomplish various program creation and deployment operations. Device icons and program icons may also interact with graphical program nodes or icons. Context sensitive device connections and/or program connections are displayed. An asynchronous data flow node may be used to facilitate asynchronous data flow between two graphical programs. The distributed system may also support distributed graphical debugging. |
| US08397166B2 |
Image processing apparatus for determining an operation trajectory based on an operation by a user and for performing a designated process on images based on the determined operation trajectory
With a map displayed on a displaying apparatus 6, a user touches a touch panel 16 with his or her finger to draw an operation trajectory passing through his or her desired area on the map. A user's designated area is specified based on the operation trajectory. Images shot in the designated area are automatically selected to be displayed and the order of displaying the images is set in accordance with a drawing operation of the operation trajectory such that the image shot at a shooting spot closest to the start point of the operation trajectory is displayed first and the image shot at a shooting spot closest to the end point of the operation trajectory is displayed last. The image selecting operation and the image displaying order setting operation can be easily performed at the same time. |
| US08397165B2 |
Touch gesture for detailed display
In general, the present disclosure is directed to techniques for displaying, e.g., events of multiple calendars or annotations in a word processor in a single view. In one example, a method includes, providing a first calendar and a second calendar, wherein the first calendar includes a first group of calendar events at least some of which have corresponding textual event details, and wherein the second calendar includes a second group of calendar events at least some of which have corresponding textual event details; receiving a user input to select one of the first calendar or the second calendar; displaying the one or more corresponding textual event details of the first group of calendar events for the first calendar; and displaying visual representations of the second group of calendar events for the second calendar without displaying the corresponding textual event details. |
| US08397159B2 |
Method and apparatus for solving UI style conflicts in web application composition
A method and apparatus for solving UI style conflicts in web application composition. The method includes the steps of: detecting, in the runtime environment of a web browser, a page element referring to duplicate UI style definitions in a web composite page; determining the UI style definition referred to by the page element in an imported widget or a local page from which it originates; and relating the page element and the determined corresponding UI style definition in the web composite page, so as to solve the UI style conflict. |
| US08397157B2 |
Context-free grammar
In one embodiment, a method comprising accessing a first data object and a second data object of a data structure representing electronic content, the second data object being associated with the first data object, selecting, based on first content included in the first data object, a grammar rule included in a grammar, the grammar rule including a grammar rule item, and based on second content included in the second data object, selecting the grammar rule item included in the grammar rule, and based on the second content and the grammar rule item, generating a portion of a textual representation of the electronic content. |
| US08397153B1 |
Systems and methods for rich presentation overlays
Systems and methods are disclosed for rendering a presentation document on a plurality of client computing devices by a server. A method includes creating a base layer for a page in the presentation document, wherein the base layer comprises a plurality of placeholder elements wherein each placeholder element has an absolute position and size. The method further includes creating an interactive layer for the page in the presentation document, wherein the interactive layer comprises a plurality of interactive element overlays representing a plurality of interactive elements and each interactive element overlay has an absolute position and size that corresponds to the absolute position and size of a placeholder element in the base layer. The method further includes sending the base layer and interactive layer of the page to each client computing device for rendering, wherein each interactive element overlay is rendered on top of its corresponding placeholder element. |
| US08397146B1 |
Device for and method of identifying minimum candidate codewords for list decoder
A device and method of determining candidates to decode by receiving a message, selecting m, identifying m voltages in message near zero volts, generating binary version of message, generating candidates that are variations of the binary message by varying the m positions, multiplying a modified binary message by the parity check matrix of the message, generating a matrix of the rows of the parity check matrix corresponding to the m positions, determining a rank v of the matrix, eliminating rows that are not linearly independent, determining if the sixth step result is in a span of the ninth step result, if so then there are 2m-1-2m-v(m−1) candidates, where the candidates can multiply the seventh step result to get the sixth step result and candidates with odd weights more than one Hamming distance from the candidates, otherwise there are 2m-1 candidates having odd weight. |
| US08397143B2 |
BCH or reed-solomon decoder with syndrome modification
An apparatus generally having a first circuit, a second circuit and a third circuit is disclosed. The first circuit may be configured to calculate a plurality of preliminary syndromes from a plurality of received symbols. The second circuit may be configured to calculate a plurality of normal syndromes by modifying the preliminary syndromes using at most two Galois Field multiplications. The third circuit is generally configured to calculate an errata polynomial based on the normal syndromes. |
| US08397140B2 |
Error correction coding for recovering multiple packets in a group view of limited bandwidth
Coded video data may be transmitted between an encoder and a decoder using multiple FEC codes and/or packets for error detection and correction. Only a subset of the FEC packets need be transmitted between the encoder and decoder. The FEC packets of each FEC group may take, as inputs, data packets of a current FEC group and also an untransmitted FEC packet of a preceding FEC group. Due to relationships among the FEC packets, when transmission errors arise and data packets are lost, there remain opportunities for a decoder to recover lost data packets from earlier-received FEC groups when later-received FEC groups are decoded. This opportunity to recover data packets from earlier FEC groups may be useful in video coding and other systems, in which later-received data often cannot be decoded unless earlier-received data is decoded properly. |
| US08397138B2 |
Method and system for network latency virtualization in a cloud transport environment
A cache device is disposed on a connection path between a user computer executing a software application and a network. The application exchanges data with a further computer via the network. The cache device includes a cache memory and a processor. The cache device is configured to measure, by the processor, a first latency between the user computer and the further computer. The cache device is further configured to determine an acceptable latency range based on the latency and a requirement of the software application. The cache device is further configured to measure a second latency between the user computer and the further computer. The cache device is further configured to store, in the cache memory, a set of data transmitted from the user computer to the further computer, if the second latency is not within the acceptable latency range. |
| US08397137B2 |
Method of decoding content data blocks, corresponding computer program product and decoding device
When decoding a set of symbols to be decoded, several data blocks representative of the set of symbols to be decoded are received by a decoding node of a communications network. The data blocks are encoded using an error correction code enabling a decoding by erasure. The decoding node performs the following steps: first selecting at least one of the data blocks, first determining first erasures, and checking whether the number of the first erasures is below a given threshold. In a case the check is positive, the decoding node performs first decoding by erasure of the set of symbols to be decoded. In a case the check is negative, the decoding node performs second selecting of at least one of the data blocks, second determining second erasures, and second decoding by erasure of the set of symbols to be decoded from the second erasures. |
| US08397127B2 |
Semiconductor recording device and semiconductor recording device control method
A semiconductor recording device includes: flash memories including a plurality of physical blocks each including a plurality of pages; an external interface unit which receives data to be recorded on the flash memories; a first ECC generation unit which generates a first ECC code by adding parity data to the data; a data writing unit which records the data based on the first ECC code into the pages in the flash memories; and a page shuffling unit which controls assignment of a symbol of the first ECC code to the pages, and the page shuffling unit controls the assignment of the symbol of the first ECC code such that the symbol of the first ECC code is assigned to pages having at least two page numbers in the physical blocks included in a group. |
| US08397126B2 |
Systems and methods for channel coding of wireless communication
Embodiments of an apparatus and method for coding of wireless transmissions channel are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed. |
| US08397118B2 |
Method of automatic repeat request (ARQ) in communication system
An automatic repeat request (ARQ) method for use in a communication system is disclosed. The ARQ method constructs a first data block set including a plurality of data blocks using data received from an upper layer, and transmits the data blocks contained in the first data block set to a reception end. If a predetermined time elapses without receiving any acknowledgement (ACK) signal after transmitting a last data block among the plurality of data blocks, the ARQ method transmits at least one data block reconstructed by the data received from the upper layer to the reception end until receiving the acknowledgment (ACK) signal from the reception end. |
| US08397116B2 |
Decoding method and memory system device using the same
A decoding method includes performing a first decoding method and performing a second decoding method when decoding of the first decoding method fails. The first decoding method includes updating multiple variable nodes and multiple check nodes using probability values of received data. The second decoding method includes selecting at least one variable node from among the multiple variable nodes; correcting probability values of data received in the selected at least one variable node; updating the variable nodes and the check nodes using the corrected probability values; and determining whether decoding of the second decoding method is successful. |
| US08397115B2 |
Phase error detection device, phase error detecting method, integrated circuit and optical disc device
A phase error detection device detects a phase error, based on an output from an A/D conversion section that performs A/D conversion on an analog input signal in accordance with a sampling clock to generate a digital reproduction signal. The phase error detection device includes a phase error generation section that generates the phase error from the output from the A/D conversion section, and a phase error correction section that corrects the phase error. Herein, the phase error correction section determines a phase error detection range from past phase errors and, when the phase error generated by the phase error generation section is out of the phase error detection range, corrects the phase error. |
| US08397108B1 |
Self-service terminal configuration management
Apparatus and methods for monitoring a self-service device network. The network may include an electronic payment platform and self-service devices that electronically exchange payment information and are in electronic communication with a transaction authorization channel. The apparatus and methods may involve a receiver module and a web server module. The receiver module may receive fault-related event information from the electronic self-service devices. The receiver module may receive a transaction authorization channel error notification corresponding to the transaction authorization channel. The web server module may provide reporting information based on the fault-related events and the transaction authorization channel error notification to a user. |
| US08397106B2 |
Detecting no progress state of an application
A method, system, and computer usable program product for detecting a no progress state of an application are provided in the illustrative embodiments. A resource usage and an output of a set of applications are monitored. The resource usage and the output are measured to determine a resource usage value and an output value at a given time. A determination is made whether the resource usage value is included in a sub-range of a resource usage scale and the output value is included in a sub-range of an output scale where the sub-range of the resource usage scale corresponds to the sub-range of the output scale. The no progress state of the application is detected if the determination is negative |
| US08397095B2 |
Method and apparatus for synchronizing time of day of terminal in convergent network
Provided is a method and apparatus for synchronizing a time of day (TOD) in a convergent network, wherein the TOD is received from a time server connected in the convergent network and is provided to a terminal connected in a wired or wireless network, specifically a terminal connected in a heterogeneous network, that requires TOD information. The apparatus includes a time server that provides standard TOD information, a gateway or a host personal computer (PC) that provides the standard TOD information of the time server to the terminal in a 3rd layer or lower instead of an upper layer of the open system interconnection (OSI) 7 layer model, and the terminal that adjusts a local clock according to the provided standard TOD information. According to the method and apparatus, the terminal not only maintains a very precise TOD by obtaining TOD information of the time server periodically or when required, but also obtains the TOD information without using application software for processing the TOD information. Accordingly, power consumption of the terminal is decreased. |
| US08397093B2 |
Physical separation and recognition mechanism for a switch and a power supply for power over ethernet (POE) in enterprise environments
A Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) communication system dynamically provides power and data communications over a communications link. In an enterprise environment, a table top network switch uses a power supply to provide power for PoE and data communications to one or more powered devices (e.g., personal or laptop computers). To reduce the amount of heat generated in the table top network switch, the power supply is located external to the table network switch. The table top network switch may also include enterprise equipment, such as a video projector, a monitor for a personal computing device, another personal computing device to provide some examples. The power supply for the enterprise equipment may be included within the table top network switch to provide additional integration. The power for PoE and data communications to a limited number of powered devices (e.g., personal or laptop computers) may be included within the table top network switch to provide even further integration. |
| US08397091B2 |
Apparatus and method for TPM and LAN power management
In Gigabit Ethernet Systems, the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is designed to provide trust and security to a platform through integrity measurement, protected storage, and other cryptographic functions. The present invention relates to a TPM-LAN chip with separate TPM and LAN power management. The TPM-LAN chip is designed such a way that power is reduced significantly in different power management modes compared to the legacy devices. This is accomplished by turning off certain clocks during certain operating modes. |
| US08397090B2 |
Operating integrated circuit logic blocks at independent voltages with single voltage supply
Methods and apparatus to operate various logic blocks of an integrated circuit (IC) at independent voltages are described. In one embodiment, supply of power to one or more domains in an IC is adjusted based on an indication that power consumption by components of the corresponding domain is to be modified. Other embodiments are also described. |
| US08397089B2 |
Control method with management server apparatus for storage device and air conditioner and storage system
Arrangements reducing power consumption of an air conditioner and a storage device. A control method with a management server apparatus for a plurality of storage devices and an air conditioner includes calculating plural combinations of allocating the work amount to the plurality of storage devices, calculating the heating value of each storage device included in the plurality of storage devices for each of the plural combinations, calculating the quantity of heat conducted to the air conditioner, based on the heating value and positional information of the plurality of storage devices and the air conditioner, calculating the power consumption to cool the quantity of heat conducted to the air conditioner, selecting a combination included in the plural combinations based on the power consumption of the air conditioner, and issuing a move of the data stored in a first storage device to a second storage device, based on the selected combination. |
| US08397088B1 |
Apparatus and method for efficient estimation of the energy dissipation of processor based systems
A system and method of scheduling tasks, comprising receiving activity and performance data from registers or storage locations maintained by hardware and an operating system; storing calibration coefficients associated with the activity and performance data; computing an energy dissipation rate based on at least the activity and performance data; and scheduling tasks under the operating system based on the computed energy dissipation rate. |
| US08397084B2 |
Single instance storage of encrypted data
Described is a technology by which data is efficiently and securely stored in a single instance store. A hash value is computed from data in its unencrypted form. The hash value is used to reference a single instance of that data when stored in its encrypted form. In this manner, duplicate data blocks are detectable independent of their encryption, yet stored in an encrypted form in a single instance store. In one aspect, context information for decrypting the encrypted data is stored in association with the data. When the client wants to restore the data, the client sends the hash value for that block to the single instance store service. The service returns the block and the associated context information. The client uses the context information to decrypt the block. For example, the context may comprise a key identifier which the client uses to lookup the correct key. |
| US08397079B2 |
Method and apparatus for securing digital information on an integrated circuit read only memory during test operating modes
The embodiments protect an IC against Design-For-Test (DFT) or other test mode attack. Secrets in ROM or PROM are secured. One embodiment for securing information on an IC includes receiving a ROM read command, writing data from a plurality of ROM address locations to an encryption logic in response to receiving the ROM read command, and writing an encryption logic output of the encryption logic to a test control logic, the encryption logic output representing the data from the plurality of ROM address locations. Writing the data from the plurality of ROM address locations to the encryption logic may also include writing the data from the plurality of ROM address locations to a multiple input shift register (MISR) in response to the ROM read command, and writing an MISR output to the test control logic, the MISR output representing the data from the plurality of ROM address locations. |
| US08397078B2 |
Method for authenticating and executing a program
Unlike the technology for a program downloaded through conventional broadcast waves, in the case of downloading a program via a network, there is a possibility that such program will be activated without noticing that the program is tampered with. For this reason, when a program is downloaded via a network, a file hierarchy for the program located on a server is constructed in a local area of a terminal. Subsequently, the authentication of the program is performed with respect to the file hierarchy constructed in the local area, and the credibility of the program is guaranteed. |
| US08397074B2 |
Method and computer system for long-term archiving of qualified signed data
The current invention describes a method for long term archiving of qualifiedly signed data in accordance with the current invention, which comprises the steps of hashing the data, encrypting the data through a cryptography algorithm, hashing the encrypted data, signing the hashed data with an advanced time stamp, generating a hash tree over the whole data file or the subgroups thereof and signing the hash tree(s) with a qualified time stamp. Furthermore, a computer system for conducting the method is disclosed. |
| US08397073B1 |
Managing secure content in a content delivery network
A system, method, and computer readable medium for managing secure content by CDN service providers are provided. A network storage provider stores one or more resources on behalf of a content provider. A CDN service provider obtains client computing device requests for secure content. Based on processing first signature information, the CDN service provider determines whether the secure content is available to the client computing device. If the CDN service provider does not maintain the requested content, the CDN service provider transmits a request to the network storage provider. Based on second signature information and an identifier associated with the CDN service provider, the network storage provider processes the request based policy information associated with the identifier. |
| US08397072B2 |
Computer-implemented method and system for embedding ancillary information into the header of a digitally signed executable
A computer-implemented method and system for embedding ancillary information into the header of a digitally signed executable are disclosed. The method and system include identifying a digital signature block and a digital signature size block in a digitally signed file header, modifying a digital signature size value in the digital signature size block, the modified value corresponding to the size of the digital signature block plus the length of an ancillary data block plus a pre-determined pad, storing the modified digital signature size in the digital signature size block, and appending the ancillary data block to the end of the digital signature block. |
| US08397071B2 |
Generation method and update method of authorization key for mobile communication
The present invention relates to an authorization key generating method and an authorization key updating method in a mobile communication system. A terminal and a base station generate an authorization key by using a terminal random value and a base station random value that are exchanged in an authorization key generating procedure as input data. In addition, a lifetime of an authorization key is established to be shorter than a lifetime of a root key, and the authorization key is updated with an updating period that is shorter than that of the root period. |
| US08397065B2 |
Secure content based routing in mobile ad hoc networks
Methods and systems for information dissemination in mobile ad hoc networks founded on Content Based Routing. The method comprises encoding, via an encoding logic within the source node, a plurality of information categories associated with the content in a header of the packet, encrypting the packet with an encryption key unique to the plurality of information categories, with the encrypted packet having a unique dissemination group identity in its header, and disseminating the encrypted packet to nodes that have subscribed to the data based on the dissemination group identity. The system comprises a host within the source node, an identity generator to generate the dissemination group identity for the content, an encryption unit for encrypting the content, and a routing unit to disseminate the content to the dissemination mesh based on established subscriptions. |
| US08397064B2 |
Implementing IEEE 802.1AE and 802.1 af security in EPON (1GEPON and 10GEPON) networks
A method and system is provided for securing communication on an EPON. Particularly different types of encrypted messages, each with a respective short MAC SegTAG, may be sent from the OLT to an ONU and from an ONU to the OLT without need for a full SecTAG with an explicit SCI. Discovery and control messages may be encrypted and a security offset may be less than 30 bytes. A packet header including its MAC address may be encrypted. |
| US08397062B2 |
Method and system for source authentication in group communications
A method and system for authentication is provided. A central node for issuing certificates to a plurality of nodes associated with the central node in a network is also provided. The central node receives a first key from at least one node from among the plurality of nodes and generates a second key based on the received first key and generates a certificate for the at least one node. The generated certificate is transmitted to the at least one node. |
| US08397060B2 |
Requesting digital certificates
A method for requesting a certificate from a certificate issuer for a public key that is associated with a corresponding private key stored by a storing entity, the method comprising: generating by means of a generating entity a certificate request message indicative of a request for a certificate; and transmitting the certificate request message to the certificate issuer; the certificate request message including an indication of the relationship between the storing entity and the generating entity. |
| US08397057B2 |
Generic hub to increase security when accessing business systems
In a method and system for increasing security when accessing a business system, a generic hub receives a request having a first transfer protocol from a user to access an application or application data maintained in an application server. In response to the user request, the generic hub verifies the authorization of the user to access the application server. If the user is authorized, a user interface to the application is presented to the user and input data is received from the user interface. The input data is checked for validity based on application-specific metadata and type checks bound to this metadata associated with fields in the user interface, and any extraneous or non-expected data is removed from the input data. The input data and user request of a first transfer protocol are tunneled to the application using a second transfer protocol. |
| US08397053B2 |
Multi-motherboard server system
A multi-motherboard server system, having a management board and a plurality of motherboards, is disclosed. The multi-motherboard server system is applicable to a sever system. The management board has a BMC, and the motherboards are respectively connected to the management board. The BMC can transmit data to a far-end control system through sideband communication. |
| US08397051B2 |
Hybrid hash tables
A hash table system having a first hash table and a second hash table is provided. The first hash table may be in-memory and the second hash table may be on-disk. Inserting an entry to the hash table system comprises inserting the entry into the first hash table, and, when the first hash table reaches a threshold load factor, flushing entries into the second hash table. Flushing the first hash table into the second hash table may comprise sequentially flushing the first hash table segments into corresponding second hash table segments. When looking up a key/value pair corresponding to a selected key in the hash table system, the system checks both the first and second hash tables for values corresponding to the selected key. The first and second hash tables may be divided into hash table segments and collision policies may be implemented within the hash table segments. |
| US08397048B2 |
Memory leak detection during dynamic memory allocation
A method to detect memory leaks during dynamic memory allocation comprises generating statistical information regarding allocated chunks in a memory heap during a dynamic memory allocation process, with the statistical information including same-sized chunk information related to the number of allocated chunks being identical in size. The statistical information is monitored to identify a potential memory leak based at least in part on the same-sized chunk information, in response to which an alert signal is generated. |
| US08397047B2 |
Logical volume configuration information distribution program, logical volume configuration information distribution method, and logical volume configuration information distribution apparatus
A recording medium storing a logical volume configuration information distribution program causing a computer to execute processing based on logical volume configuration information that defines a correspondence relation between a virtual storage area in a logical volume defined virtually and a real storage area in a storage unit, the logical volume configuration information distribution program includes: when the correspondence relation between the virtual storage area and the real storage area is changed, referencing an access node list storage unit for storing an access node list in which identification information of the access node is registered, and transmitting update information that indicates an updated correspondence relation concerning the virtual storage area whose correspondence relation with the real storage area has been changed, to the access node indicated in the access node list via the network. |
| US08397042B2 |
Secure memory interface
A secure memory interface includes a reader block, a writer block, and a mode selector for detecting fault injection into a memory device when a secure mode is activated. The mode selector activates or deactivates the secure mode using memory access information from a data processing unit. Thus, the data processing unit flexibly specifies the amount and location of the secure data stored into the memory device. |
| US08397041B2 |
Remote copy system
Even when a host does not give a write time to write data, consistency can be kept among data stored in secondary storage systems. The present system has plural primary storage systems each having a source volume and plural secondary storage systems each having a target volume. Once data is received from a host, each of the plural storage systems creates write-data management information having sequential numbers and reference information and sends, to one of the primary storage systems, the data, sequential number and reference information. Each of the secondary storage systems records reference information corresponding to the larges sequential number among serial sequential numbers and stores, in a target volume in an order of sequential numbers, data corresponding to reference information having a value smaller than the reference information based on the smallest value reference information among reference information recorded in each of the plural secondary storage systems. |
| US08397039B2 |
Storage systems and methods
Systems and methods for backup test restore are presented. In one embodiment a backup restore test method includes performing a backup process; performing a test restore virtual environment creation process, the test restore virtual environment including a plurality of virtual machines; and performing a test of the backup on the test restore virtual environment. The backup process can include backing up information associated with an application; identifying prerequisites associated with running the application; and backing up information associated with the prerequisites. The test restore virtual environment creation process can include gathering information identifying the prerequisites associated with the application; creating the plurality of virtual machines, wherein the plurality of virtual machines includes virtual machines corresponding to physical machines the application and perquisites run on; and bringing up the plurality of virtual machines utilizing the information from the backup process. |
| US08397038B2 |
Initializing file data blocks
A method and system is provided for initializing files such as, for example and without limitation, pre-allocated files or raw device mapping (RDM) files, by delaying initializing file blocks. In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, file blocks are associated with corresponding indicators to track un-initialized blocks. |
| US08397036B2 |
Memory control device and semiconductor processing apparatus
The present invention provides a memory control device and a semiconductor processing apparatus which can be flexibly made adapted to a plurality of kinds of semiconductor memories. An SDRAM controller has: a register unit to which a command to be issued and a minimum interval (wait time) between issue of the command and issue of the next command are written by a CPU; and a command issuing unit that stops issue of the next command until the minimum interval written in the register elapses since issue of the command written in the register. Therefore, by changing software for the CPU, the SDRAM controller can be flexibly adapted to a plurality of kinds of SDRAMs. |
| US08397035B2 |
Semiconductor memory system with first and second nonvolatile memories storing user and management data and a controller controlling read/write of the memories and having simultaneous data transfer in and out of one of the memories
A semiconductor storage device includes a first nonvolatile memory to store user data of a file, a second nonvolatile memory to store management data of the file, the second nonvolatile memory being different in type from the first nonvolatile memory, and a controller to control read/write of data with respect to the first and second nonvolatile memories. |
| US08397033B2 |
Parallel processing processor system
A parallel processing processor system includes multiple processor elements, a main memory, and a shared memory, whose latency with the processors is less than the latency between the main memory and the processors. Each of the multiple processor elements has a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) and an instruction cache. Firmware executed by the DSPs is transferred from the main memory to the shared memory and is shared by the DSPs. Updating of the instruction caches in the case where a cache miss has occurred is performed by, for example, copying, into the instruction caches, the content of the shared memory corresponding to an address accessed by a DSP. |
| US08397026B2 |
Partition access control system and method for controlling partition access
An access control system (10) is disclosed for controlling access to data stored on at least one data storage medium (14) of a computing system. The access control system (10) comprises authentication means (25) to authenticate users permitted to access data stored in the at least one data storage medium (14) and database means (29) arranged to store data access profiles. Each data access profile is associated with a user permitted to access data stored in the at least one data storage medium (14), each data access profile includes information indicative of the degree of access permitted by a user to data stored in the at least one data storage medium (14), and each data access profile includes a master data access profile (M) and a current data access profile (C). The current data access profile (C) is modifiable within parameters defined by the master data access profile (M). |
| US08397022B2 |
System and method for optimized data backup
A spilt backup agent model where a component on a host and a component on the block storage device function together logically to provide a backup agent. In certain embodiments, the mechanism provides a split backup agent model using a NDMP protocol. The NDMP protocol is an industry standard protocol that allows for backup of hosts with a single backup agent that is compatible with multiple independent software vendor (ISV) backup software. Thus with the present invention, proprietary backup software dependent host agents are not required. The NDMP protocol provides for separation of control and data connections where the control path runs between the data server on the host that needs to be backed up and backup software (e.g., a Data Management Application (DMA)) and between the backup device and the backup software. The data path runs between the host and the backup device. |
| US08397021B2 |
Formatting multi-layer storage media
A device for recording information on a storage medium (11) is arranged for formatting the storage medium. The device has receives a format command according to a protocol (ATA/ATAPI). The device has formatting means for formatting a multilayer storage medium according to the format command. The formatting includes recording, on each layer (L0, L1) of the multilayer storage medium, a first control zone (71, 72) at a first radial position on the layer and a second control zone (73, 74) at a second radial position on the layer for forming an annular data zone of a selected size between the control zones. If the format size is smaller than a maximum available size on the storage medium, the control zones are positioned on substantially equal radial positions for forming radially corresponding annular data zones (75, 76). The required format size equals the sum of the selected sizes of each annular data zone. |
| US08397020B2 |
Memory array and method with simultaneous read/write capability
A memory device includes a plurality of memory arrays, each memory array being coupled to an input data bus and an output data bus, a clock generator that generates an internal clock signal to form at least one transfer cycle to control timing of data transfer to and from the plurality of memory arrays, and a controller that controls read and write operations from and to the plurality of memory arrays. In one embodiment, the controller receives a command word containing at least a first command and a second command and executes the first and second command on the same transfer cycle. |
| US08397017B2 |
Controller and data storage device
A volatile management memory stores management information for managing a use state of a storage medium. A management information storing unit divides the management information into plural division pieces and individually stores them in the storage medium. A main controller receives a command from a host device while the division pieces are being stored, performs data processing for the storage medium in response to the command between each division piece is stored, updates the management information divided into the division pieces according to the data processing content, and creates a log representing an update content of the management information. A log storing unit stores the log in the storage medium. A restoring unit reads the division pieces stored in the storage medium to the management memory as the management information, updates the management information according to the log stored in the storage medium, and restores the updated management information. |
| US08397013B1 |
Hybrid memory module
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a hybrid memory module that combines memory devices of different types while presenting a single technology interface. The hybrid memory module includes a number of super-stacks and a first interface configured to transmit data between the super-stacks and a memory controller. Each super-stack includes a number of sub-stacks, a super-controller configured to control the sub-stacks, and a second interface configured to transmit data between the sub-stacks and the first interface. Combining memory devices of different types allows utilizing the favorable properties of each type of the memory devices, while hiding their unfavorable properties from the memory controller. |
| US08397012B2 |
Data storage systems
A data storage subsystem includes a volatile memory in which stored data can be denoted as being data that should be preserved in the event of an interruption in the power supply to the volatile memory. The available capacity for such data storage is dynamically allocated between multiple firmware client components of the storage subsystem, such that each client component has its own (varying) allocation of the available capacity. A higher priority for the storage of such data is given to client components on which other client components depend, such as lower layers of the software stack, thereby allowing them to get a larger share of the available capacity for such data storage when needed and complete their input/output requests faster. |
| US08397011B2 |
Scalable mass data storage device
A scalable data storage device which includes non-volatile memory uses a networked bus system which can be employed on a single memory storage chip level or in a multi-chip package (MCP). The scalable data storage device uses data routing modules which are adapted to store incoming data and send outgoing data thereby providing decoupling of the networked buses. This arrangement enables significantly higher data transfer rates, surpassing DRAM SSDs at a fraction of the size and cost, provides increased volumetric density (1 TB in less than 1 cubic inch), and permits concurrency of operations. The scalable data storage device can be engineered to have a rewrite capability of over 500 times that of Flash RAM and can scale down to 8 bits and up to exabytes, yottabytes and beyond. The scalable data storage device may be used in a wide range of applications from large data centers to small consumer electronic products. |
| US08397008B2 |
Docking station
A docking station includes a multiplexer. The multiplexer includes a first input end, a second input end, and an encode system. The encode system is connected to the second input end, and configured to generate an encoding according to a connection status of the second input end. The encode system is configured to generate a first encoding, when a first peripheral device is connected to the second input end, to switch the multiplexer to a first state, in which the second input end is on and the first input end is off. The encode system is further configured to generate a second encoding, when the first peripheral device is not connected to the second input end, to switch the multiplexer to a second state, in which the second input end is off and the first input end is on. |
| US08397006B2 |
Arbitration scheme for accessing a shared resource
A processing system includes a shared resource, an arbitration module, and a requesting device for issuing requests to the arbitration module to access the shared resource to perform transactions on the shared resource. The arbitration module grants access to the requesting device for a fixed time duration. The fixed time duration comprises one of a plurality of time durations including a first and a second time duration; the second longer than the first. The requesting device prioritizes performance of the transactions on the shared resource based upon the fixed time duration and types of transactions to be performed. Transaction type comprises one of a plurality of types including a first type that requires a time duration that can be performed within the first time duration and a second type that requires a time duration that exceeds the first time duration but can be performed within the second time duration. |
| US08397004B2 |
Keyboard, mouse, and video (KVM) session capture system that stores and can playback portions of live KVM session via forensic capture module
Keyboard, mouse and video (KVM) capture session architecture that includes command center forensics. That is, redirector hardware (HW) and a command center forensics (CCF) appliance. The redirector HW includes a computer interface module (CIM) with a computer readable encoded media. The CIM is configured to record at least one KVM session. The computer readable encoded media is configured to instruct sending an identical copy of the recorded at least one KVM session to the CCF appliance. The CCF appliance being configured to store and playback the identical copy. |
| US08396994B1 |
Command queue for peripheral component
In an embodiment, a peripheral component configured to control an external interface of an integrated circuit. For example, the peripheral component may be a memory interface unit such as a flash memory interface unit. The internal interface to the peripheral component may be shared between data transfers to/from the external interface and control communications to the peripheral component. The peripheral component may include a command queue configured to store a set of commands to perform a transfer on the interface. A control circuit may be coupled to the command queue and may read the commands and communicate with an interface controller to cause a transfer on the interface responsive to the commands. In an embodiment, a macro memory may store command sequences to be performed in response to a macro command in the command queue. In an embodiment, an operand queue may store operand data for use by the commands. |
| US08396991B2 |
Validating user experience type settings
A home gateway accesses a host system that differentially routes messages over a communication network to a destination system. The selection of a communication pathway from multiple possible communication pathways through a communication network is based on a user experience type (e.g., gaming user experience, streaming user experience, or browsing user experience) that generally reflects network resource consumption preferences of the user of the access account for the home gateway. Examples of user experience types include a gaming user experience, a streaming user experience and a browsing user experience. The user experience type generally reflects the online experience desired by the user. |
| US08396989B2 |
Resource planning and data interchange functionality within a cloud computing environment
The present invention provides technology neutral process integration (Cloud Resource Planning), and optimization methodology leveraging a business meta-schema format Cloud Data Interchange (CDI) to integrate, enable, and invoke Cloud services. One example is that the present invention provides a management layer at the process level. There can be multiple Cloud implementations/types within a govern enterprise—perhaps utilizing different infrastructure (e.g., hardware of one supplier versus that of another) or different areas of functionality (computing services, storage services, etc). This disclosure provides an abstraction or ‘resource planning’ layer above these core services such that a customer does not have to have knowledge or choose different Cloud types and/or understand or choose each underlying service. As such, it provides a ‘one stop’ portal. |
| US08396985B2 |
Packet sequence number tracking for an anti-replay window
Described embodiments provide a network processor that includes a security sub-processor to prevent replay attacks on the network processor. A memory stores an anti-replay window corresponding to a data stream of the network processor. The anti-replay window has N bits initialized to correspond to data packet sequence numbers in the range 1 to N. The anti-replay memory is stored in a plurality of data words. A plurality of flip-flops store word valid bits corresponding to each of the data words. A multiplexer selects the word valid bit corresponding to a data word requested by the security processor, and an AND gate performs a bitwise AND operation between the selected data word and word valid bit. When the network processor receives a data packet, the security sub-processor determines a value of the received sequence number with respect to minimum and maximum values of a sequence number range of the anti-replay window. |
| US08396982B2 |
Information processor, method for processing information, computer program, and semiconductor device
To provide a device for downloading a digital content file, an information processor stores, in an external storage device, a digital content file obtained from a server through a network through packet communication, where the information processor includes a download control section for keeping a recording area having a size which is equal to the data size of the digital content file in the external storage device and storing the packets in order from the earliest to the latest obtained, in this recording area; and a resume data generation section for generating a resume data indicating the progress of obtaining the digital content file, and the download control section stores the resume data in the subject recording area and removes the resume data from the recording area when the last packet is obtained. |
| US08396978B2 |
Proxy response apparatus, proxy response method in proxy response apparatus, and communication system
A proxy response apparatus, including: a storage unit which establishes connection with a mobile terminal by TCP and stores message information included in a packet obtained from the mobile terminal; a response processing unit which receives a packet from an external apparatus, and responds whether message information included in the receive packet is effective or not to the message information stored in the storage unit; and a TCP processing unit which transmits a packet including a response message to the external apparatus without establishing radio connection with the mobile terminal, when the TCP processing unit inputs the response indicating effective from the response processing unit. |
| US08396973B2 |
Distributed speech service
The present invention relates to establishing a media channel and a signaling channel between a client and a server. The media channel uses a chosen codec and protocol for communication. Through the media channel and signaling channel, an application on the client can utilize speech services on the server. |
| US08396968B2 |
Information processor and resource scheduling method
The information processor is provided with a receiving unit that receives a request including a period in which the resource is used, a usage status and a cession requirement, a work process storage that stores a pre-cession usage status, a post-cession usage status and a calculating condition, a work time arithmetic expression storage that stores an arithmetic expression of work time, a concession plan preparing unit that determines whether or not it is written to a cession requirement, calculates work time based upon the calculating condition and a specified post-cession usage status and an arithmetic expression, and calculates the capacity of the available resource with which the concession destination user is conceded based upon the calculated work time, the usage period included in the request and the usage period included in the request, and a concession managing unit that makes the resource of the capacity calculated. |
| US08396967B2 |
Information process system, information process apparatus, control method therefor, and storage medium
An information processing system is disclosed that makes it possible to easily create a process definition ticket according to a template created by checking common capabilities of devices. Devices on a network that have a potential for being used to execute a process based on the process definition ticket are selected, and information on capabilities of the selected devices is obtained. Functions common or uncommon to the devices are displayed in an identifiable manner based on the information on the capabilities of the devices. A process definition ticket template including common capabilities of the selected devices is generated with respect to process items in the template that are designated. A process definition ticket that is to be executed using the devices is created based on the generated template. |
| US08396964B2 |
Computer application analysis
A method, system, and computer program product for computer application analysis are provided. The method for computer application analysis includes monitoring a computer system on which an application to be analyzed is executed and interacted with by a user of the computer system. The monitoring includes: capturing screen data of the application as displayed on a display screen of the computer system including interpreting the screen data using optical character recognition (OCR); and capturing user inputs to the application to input devices of the computer system. The method further includes analyzing the captured screen data and user inputs to generate a summary of the usage of the application. |
| US08396950B1 |
Method and apparatus for the fast detection of connectivity loss between devices in a network
A method and apparatus for quickly determining the status of a network device in a network communicates status inquiry messages over the forwarding plane of one network device to at least one neighboring network device. The status inquiry messages indicate the connectivity status with at least one neighboring device. The status inquiry messages are transmitted periodically to the at least one neighboring device. In addition, the network device may communicate an advertisement message over the control plane to discover the at least one neighboring network device prior to the communication of the status inquiry messages over the forwarding plane. The network devices may negotiate communication parameters for the exchange of status inquiry messages with the at least one network device. |
| US08396943B2 |
Vehicle mounted device, server device, and communication system
A first local communication part of a vehicle mounted device transmits a first data including at least one of a first video data or a first audio data generated by an AV input/output unit of the vehicle mounted device to a server device. The first local communication unit receives a second data including at least one of a second video data or a second audio data from the server device. A first recording unit of the vehicle mounted device records therein the first data, the second data, and a unique information relating to a vehicle or a user of the vehicle. The first local communication unit further transmits the unique information to the server device. |
| US08396940B2 |
Network communications using non-networking device drivers
A system for communicating via a network, the system including a non-networking device driver running on a computer, and networking/non-networking apparatus configured to receive, from the non-networking device driver, data that are designated by an application for transmission via a computer network, and transmit the data via the computer network responsive to receipt of the data from the non-networking device driver, where the networking/non-networking apparatus includes a non-networking device impersonator configured to be identified by the computer as a non-networking device, and to receive data from the non-networking device driver, and a network adapter configured to receive the data from the non-networking device impersonator and transmit the data via the computer network. |
| US08396938B2 |
Providing direct access to distributed managed content
A method for providing direct access to distributed managed content is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a request to perform an operation with respect to content associated with a set of managed content and obtaining information required to respond to the request. The method further comprises providing in response to the request one or more content locators, each content locator being usable to perform the requested operation through direct communication with an associated one of a plurality of content systems used to store at a portion of the distributed managed content. |
| US08396937B1 |
Efficient hardware scheme to support cross-cluster transactional memory
A method and system for increasing programmability and scalability of a multi-processor network. A system includes two or more nodes coupled via a network with each node comprising a processor unit and memory. The processor unit includes one or more processors and a wiretap unit. The wiretap unit is configured to monitor memory accesses of the processors. A transaction may execute a number of read and/or write operations to memory. The nodes are configured to replicate one or more portions of memory; detect data conflicts to memory; and restore memory to pre-transaction state if needed. |
| US08396935B1 |
Discovering spam merchants using product feed similarity
Discovering spam merchants using product feed comparison comprises a merchant signature computed by a comparison system using the offer data submitted by a merchant. The merchant submits a file to the comparison system for use on a product comparison website. The comparison system processes the file and calculates a merchant signature by parsing a specific feature common to all offers. The comparison system assigns a data value to each of the specific features included in each of the offers and generates a string of assigned data values. The comparison system executes a hash algorithm for the string of data values to obtain the merchant signature. The merchant signature is compared with the signatures of known spam merchants and if the merchant signature is within a predefined threshold of known spam merchant signatures, the merchant is rejected and the signature is marked as a spam merchant. |
| US08396934B2 |
Communication method and apparatus for the efficient and reliable transmission of TT ethernet messages
The goal of the present invention is to improve the useful data efficiency and reliability in the use of commercially available ETHERNET controllers, in a distributed real time computer system, by a number of node computers communicating via one or more communication channels by means of TT ETHERNET messages. To achieve this goal, a distinction is made between the node computer send time (KNSZPKT) and the network send time (NWSZPKT) of a message. The KNSZPKT must wait for the NWSZPKT, so that under all circumstances, the start of the message has arrived in the TT star coupler at the NWSZPKT, interpreted by the clock in the TT star coupler. The TT star coupler is modified, so that a message arriving from a node computer is delayed in an intelligent port of the TT star coupler until the NWSZPKT can send it precisely at the NWSZPKT into the TT network. |
| US08396932B2 |
Apparatus and method for efficiently managing data in a social networking service
An apparatus, method, and machine-readable medium are described for managing data within a friend service. In one embodiment, a key/value data store can be used to provide an efficient and highly-scalable friend service database. Various techniques can be used to ensure data consistency between friend service data records. For example, in one embodiment, operations are detected which require updates to a plurality of related friend state records. A key may be generated to represent each of the operations and then used to create an entry in a write-ahead log database. In one embodiment, each entry in the write-ahead log database may specify the operation to be performed on the friend state records. If the plurality of friend state records are successfully updated, then the entry in the write-ahead log database may be deleted. However, if the plurality of friend state records are not successfully completed, then the entry is not deleted from the write-ahead log database. The friend state records associated with old entries in the write-ahead log database are checked for consistency and inconsistent records are repaired. In addition, optimistic locking techniques may be used in one embodiment to improve performance of the friend service database. |
| US08396930B2 |
Systems and methods for facilitating creating calendar entries in client devices
A method for facilitating creating one or more calendar entries in one or more client devices. The method may include includes receiving an iTIP message from a first client device associated with a first user and having a first calendar application. The iTIP message may be addressed to at least a second user, wherein the second user may be associated with a second client device having a second calendar application. The method may also include generating an iMIP message using the iTIP message. The method may also include providing at least one of a copy of the iTIP message and a copy of the iMIP message to a least one of the second client device and a second communication server device connected to the second client device for enabling the second calendar application to generate a calendar entry in the second client device. |
| US08396927B2 |
Detection of unwanted messages (spam)
In a telecommunications network, method and apparatus for blocking unwanted messages (spam). Messages are first examined by a fast process which uses rules and data tables to determine whether a message can be passed or is potentially a spam message. If the message is potentially a spam message, the message content is analyzed by a deep process. Advantageously, most messages can be passed or blocked quickly and extensive data processing is required only for the few messages which cannot be categorized by the fast process. |
| US08396926B1 |
Message challenge response
A system and method are disclosed for registering a email sender for the purpose of sending an email message to an email receiver including receiving a challenge message wherein the challenge message includes a machine answerable question; processing the challenge message to determine that it is a challenge message sent for the purpose of authorizing delivery of the email message; analyzing the question to determine a valid response to the challenge message; and sending the valid response that includes the answer wherein a nontrivial amount of resources are required to send the valid response. |
| US08396925B2 |
Information processing device and method to expand content reception network
An information processing device includes: a first receiving unit to receive, from a first other information processing device, equipment information of a second other information processing device that differs from the first other information processing device, via a first communication and first connecting information useful for connecting with the second other information processing device by a second communication that differs from the first communication; a first transmitting unit to transmit second connection information that is useful for connecting with the device itself by the second communication to the first other information processing device, via the first communication; and a second receiving unit to receive content data transmitted from the second other information processing device by the second communication, based on the first connection information and the second connection information. |
| US08396921B2 |
Cached and server views with automatic caching and smooth scrolling
On a client computer, customer relationship management software is integrated into a messaging application that includes a user interface. Customer relationship management (CRM) information is received from a server computer. An automatic determination is made as to whether the received CRM information is to be cached on the client computer. When it is determined that the CRM information is to be cached on the client computer, the CRM information is cached in a cache on the client computer. When at least some of the CRM information is cached on the client computer, the cached CRM information is displayed as a view on the client computer. The display of the CRM information is integrated into the user interface of the messaging application program. |
| US08396920B1 |
Clean URLs in web applications
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for using clean URLs in web applications. A URL having a base path and a subpath is received on a server device from a web browser. The server device sends a rendered webpage and associated JavaScript instructions to the web browser. The JavaScript instructions direct the web browser to determine whether the web browser is compliant based upon whether the web browser supports a URL modification mechanism. If the web browser is noncompliant, the URL is redirected to the base path. |
| US08396915B2 |
Processor for performing multiply-add operations on packed data
A method and apparatus for including in a processor instructions for performing multiply-add operations on packed data. In one embodiment, a processor is coupled to a memory. The memory has stored therein a first packed data and a second packed data. The processor performs operations on data elements in said first packed data and said second packed data to generate a third packed data in response to receiving an instruction. At least two of the data elements in this third packed data storing the result of performing multiply-add operations on data elements in the first and second packed data. |
| US08396911B2 |
Data processing device
In a determination as to similarity on parts of a piece of data, high-speed processing is performed without the need for a database. Division signal lines (L1 to Lk) that transmit signals corresponding to division data are used. The following components each of which is composed of a logical circuit are provided: a correlation matrix generation circuit (12) which calculates an average value on the signals of each of the division signal lines (L1 to Lk) and generates a correlation matrix signal forming a correlation matrix on each division; a characteristic value/characteristic vector calculation circuit (14) which calculates signals corresponding to a characteristic value and a characteristic vector of the correlation matrix; a second product-sum operation circuit (15) which calculates a signal corresponding to a feature vector of each division; distance calculation circuits (16-1 to 16-k) which calculate distances between individual elements of the feature vector; a threshold setting circuit (17) for setting a signal of a threshold that is compared with the distances between the individual elements; and result output circuits (18-1 to 18-k) which compare, based on the threshold signal, distance signals between the individual elements calculated by the distance calculation circuits (16-1 to 16-k) and output a signal. |
| US08396907B2 |
Data processing system and method of grouping computer files
A method of operating multiple files includes creating a group of computer files using a single container, and opening multiple files of the group and associated application software by opening a single file corresponding to the group of computer files. |
| US08396906B2 |
Metadata structure for storing and playing stereoscopic data, and method for storing stereoscopic content file using this metadata
Provided is a metadata structure for storing and re-producing stereoscopic data and a method for storing a stereoscopic content file based on the metadata structure. The stereoscopic content file storing method includes storing streams of the stereoscopic contents; and, when the stereoscopic content has more than two elementary streams, storing information for dividing the elementary streams into a main track and a supplementary track. |
| US08396897B2 |
Method, system, and computer program product for threading documents using body text analysis
A method, system, and computer program product for threading documents using body text analysis. The method comprises: computing a fingerprint for each of a plurality of documents by analyzing text in a body of each document; comparing the computed fingerprints to determine a set of documents from the plurality of documents whose fingerprints are sufficiently similar; and ordering the set of documents to create at least one parent-child relationship. |
| US08396890B2 |
Using information usage data to detect behavioral patterns and anomalies
Activity data is analyzed or evaluated to detect behavioral patterns and anomalies. When a particular pattern or anomaly is detected, a system may send a notification or perform a particular task. This activity data may be collected in an information management system, which may be policy based. Notification may be by way e-mail, report, pop-up message, or system message. Some tasks to perform upon detection may include implementing a policy in the information management system, disallowing a user from connecting to the system, and restricting a user from being allowed to perform certain actions. To detect a pattern, activity data may be compared to a previously defined or generated activity profile. |
| US08396888B2 |
Location-based searching using a search area that corresponds to a geographical location of a computing device
In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, systems, and programs for providing location-based information. A geographical location of a mobile computing device is received at a server system. A request for content is received at the server system and from the mobile computing device. A search area that corresponds to the geographical location is selected by the sever system. The search area is selected from among a collection of search areas that correspond to the geographical location. At least one of the search areas in the collection is geographically nested within at least one other of the search areas. A search result that is most-relevantly ranked for the selected search area is determined by the server system. Content that represents the determined search result is provided by the server system and for receipt by the mobile computing device. |
| US08396886B1 |
Continuous processing language for real-time data streams
A computer software language capable of expressing registered queries that operate on one more or more data streams continuously. The language of the present invention is based on a publish/subscribe model in that queries subscribe to data streams and publish to data streams. Also, the language of the present invention can express queries that operate directly on data streams. Since queries expressed in the language of the present invention may be executed continuously and directly on data streams, the language includes a clause for specifying time-based and/or row-based windows for the input data stream. Operations are then performed on the data within such windows. In one embodiment, the language is also SQL-like and includes a clause for defining named windows (which can be used in any number of queries); a clause for detecting a pattern, and correlated database subqueries for correlating data stream data with database tables. |
| US08396883B2 |
Spatial querying in a data warehouse
A data warehouse that operates to receive a spatial query and return a spatial result for the spatial query, the data warehouse comprises a regular database operating to receive and process a regular query and return a query result in response to the regular query. The data warehouse also comprises an interface layer implemented external to the regular database and operating to intercept the spatial query and translate the spatial query into the regular query for processing by the regular database. The regular database includes at least one spatial index that is accessed by the interface layer to translate the spatial query into the regular query for processing by the regular database. |
| US08396881B2 |
Method and system for automatically generating web page transcoding instructions
A system and method are provided for generating transcoding instructions to identify and extract a subset of data from a web page. Input describing the subset of data is received where the input describes one or more data fields and, for each data field, respective field values from at least two sample web pages of a web page family for the web site. For each field, respective web page code defining the respective field values may be compared for commonality to find a matching pattern with which to locate the respective field values. The matching pattern comprises a signature for the data field. Transcoding instructions are defined using the matching pattern to locate and extract field values within web pages of the web page family. The subset of data may be expressed in a target format to transcode the web page for particular client machines (e.g. a wireless mobile device). |
| US08396877B2 |
Method and apparatus for generating a fused view of one or more people
In accordance with particular embodiments, a method includes receiving data from disparate data sources comprising data associated with different people. At least one of the data sources comprises data associated with at least one common person. The method also includes extracting at least one record from each of the disparate data sources. Each extracted record is associated with a corresponding person and comprises at least one feature associated with the corresponding person. The method additionally includes distributing the records to computers configured to identify matches between the records based on at least one matching feature associated with two or more records. The method further includes merging the at least one feature from each of the records of each corresponding match into merged records, each merged record corresponding to a different match. The method also includes generating at least one fused view associated with the at least one common person and comprising a merged record. |
| US08396874B2 |
System and method for using topic messages to understand media relating to an event
A system and method for using topic messages to understand media relating to an event. An event (such as a live event or broadcast event), is selected where at least a portion of the content of the event is stored as at least one media object, such as, for example a video or audio recording in digital format. A plurality of topic messages relating to the broadcast event is retrieved over a network and are analyzed to identify a plurality of content segments within the event. The topic messages are further analyzed to identify at least one key actor related to the event. Segment and key actor data relating to the event is stored to a computer readable medium in association with the media objects, whereby the segment data identifies the plurality of content segments within the media objects and the key actor data identifies key actors in the event. |
| US08396873B2 |
Index searching using a bloom filter
A system for index searching includes a first index, a second index, a processor, and a memory. The processor is configured to determine, using a Bloom filter for the second index of fingerprints, whether the Bloom filter indicates that an entry corresponding to a segment has been previously stored in the second index. The processor is further configured to, in the event that the Bloom filter indicates that an entry corresponding to the segment has been previously stored in the second index, retrieve a second index entry associated with the segment that has been previously stored. The memory is coupled to the processor and configured to provide the processor with instructions. |
| US08396868B2 |
Information processing apparatus and information processing method
There is provided an information processing apparatus including a search processing section for causing a transmission/reception section to execute processing of transmitting a search request including a search condition to each of one or more information management devices, causing the transmission/reception section to execute processing of receiving, as a response to the search request and from each of the one or more information management devices via a network, content information corresponding to the search condition from among pieces of content information and management subject identification information for identifying the information management device which manages the content information, and correlating the management subject identification information with content identification information and content-related information that are included in the content information received by the transmission/reception section and causing a storage section to store the correlated management subject identification information, content identification information, and content-related information as a search result. |
| US08396867B2 |
Identifying and ranking networked biographies and referral paths corresponding to selected qualifications
The most common automated search methods produce less-than-ideal results when searching online resumes, profiles, and the like (“biographies”) for the identities of people with a searcher-selected qualification (“candidates”). Keywords, their proximities, and their repetitions are less informative in biographies than in other informational documents. Similarly, chains of social connection (“referral paths”) do not always reveal the likelihood or ease of a searcher's introduction to a candidate. In both cases, the display order of results may be unrelated to any estimate of merit. To answer the question “Whom do I need and how do I reach them?” a classifier system uses heuristics or algorithms adapted to match the reactions of human experts on the selected qualifications. Terms in biographies, regardless of structure, are standardized and disambiguated for accurate comparisons, meaningful context is preserved, and biographies and referral paths are scored based on expected usefulness to the searcher. |
| US08396866B2 |
Matching reviewers to review objects
Techniques are described for incorporating different types of input available to administrators responsible for assigning reviewers (persons) to objects to be reviewed. A plurality of types of assignment ranking algorithms is provided. Each ranking algorithm can output a different set of candidate assignments (reviewer-review object pairs) with corresponding ranks/weights (measures of how well object fit reviewers). Some ranking algorithms may automatically generate assignments by using information about review objects and reviewers to find matches therebetween. Other algorithms might simply rank or weigh suggested matches (e.g., from manual input). The ranked/weighted assignments from the various algorithms are combined to produce a final result set of suggested assignments of reviewers. In one embodiment, a bidding algorithm, referral algorithm, and a relevance algorithm may be used, and intermediate results therefrom are combined for a final result. |
| US08396865B1 |
Sharing search engine relevance data between corpora
In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, systems, and program products for providing a query to a search engine for searching a corpus of documents. A plurality of result documents are received from the search engine, each result document associated with a ranking. For a first document in the plurality, the following is performed. First, a second document in a second corpus is identified as containing content that identifies the same physical object as the first document. The second document was included in a plurality of result documents responsive to a second query of the second corpus, similar to the first query. Second, a new ranking is determined for the first document based on its ranking and relevance data associated with the second document. The relevance data is indicative of the second document's popularity as a result for the second query. |
| US08396862B2 |
Product join dynamic partition elimination for multilevel partitioning
A method of searching a multilevel partitioned database includes receiving a query data from the multilevel partitioned database. At least for one level partitions are dynamically included. For some levels, partitions may also be statically included for execution of the query. The query is the executed over the partitions that are both dynamically and statically included. In one example, the cost of joining two tables in a multilevel partitioned database includes determining level partitions that can be statically included, estimating level partitions that will be dynamically considered for the join, and determining a cost as a function of the estimated statically included level partitions and estimated dynamically included level partitions. |
| US08396859B2 |
Subject matter context search engine
A search system associates contextual metadata with search terms and/or stored terms to facilitate identification of relevant information. In one implementation, a search term is identified (4304) from a received search request. The search term is then rewritten (4306) in standard form and the standard form term is then set (4308) as the current search parameter. A source database is then searched (4310) using the current search parameter. If any results are obtained (4312) these results may be output (4320) to the user. If no results are obtained, a parent classification of the search term is set (4316) as the current search parameter and the process is repeated. The invention thereby provides the ease of use of term searching with the comprehensiveness of category searching. |
| US08396858B2 |
Adding entries to an index based on use of the index
In an embodiment, a threshold value is calculated for a current entry in a first column of an index. If the current entry has been read a number of times by execution of an execution plan that is more than the threshold value and the current entry points to at least one row in a table and not all of the at least one row have been selected by the execution plan for inclusion in a result set as satisfying a query that the execution plan implements, then a new entry is added to the index. |
| US08396857B2 |
System to modify websites for organic search optimization
A system is configured to modify a website to optimize the website for an organic search of a topic. The system includes a data management module configured to receive search terms for the topic, receive related terms to the search terms for the topic, and receive website input data. The system also includes a scanning module configured to scan and index web pages and web objects in the website and identify a subset of web pages and web objects associated with the search terms and the related terms. The system also includes an optimizing module configured to process the subset of web pages and web objects from the website by prioritizing the subset of web pages and web objects or measuring a metric with respect to the subset of web pages and web objects. The search terms and related terms are deployed into the subset of web pages and web objects on the website based on the processing. |
| US08396854B2 |
Digital document management system
Embodiments of the invention relate to a software-as-a-service (“SaaS”) digital document management system (“DDMS”). The DDMS is located remotely from an office building or other place of business on a remote server. The server is connected to one or more databases for storing digital documents or information extracted from the digital documents. A user populates the DDMS by sending digital documents to the server using a computer, an email-enabled scanner, or the like. When a digital document is received at the server, the document is routed to a customer pending queue, information from the digital document is extracted, the digital document is stored in a directory, and the extracted information is stored in a relational database. The extracted information is supplemented or corrected as necessary using a web portal which allows a user to access the digital document and the extracted information. The digital document and the extracted information are then sent to a first destination such as an archive or mail-on-demand (e.g., a mail and print service). |
| US08396852B2 |
Evaluating execution plan changes after a wakeup threshold time
In an embodiment an execution plan for a query is created. A wakeup threshold is set proportional to an amount of time taken by the creation of the execution plan. In various embodiments, the wakeup threshold is increased by a percentage equal to one minus a percentage of free resources at a computer system, is increased inversely proportional to an amount of execution time of a previous execution of the execution plan, or is decreased proportional to a number of times the execution plan was executed. A portion of the execution plan is executed to produce a portion of rows in a result set until the wakeup threshold expires. After the wakeup threshold expires, changes to the execution plan are evaluated. |
| US08396851B2 |
Scalable associative text mining network and method
A text mining network that improves the performance of search engines by using a network of computer entities with autonomous neural networks. Each neural network provides a weighted list of associated search terms for each search query. The lists of associated search terms from two or more computer entities are merged to a unique list of associated search terms by utilization of a virtual index algorithm. Document result sets from the autonomous entities are merged to a unique result set by a weighted combination of two or more result sets. |
| US08396850B2 |
Discriminating search results by phrase analysis
A statistical analysis parses documents for phrases in the documents. Each document is analyzed with a phrase analysis engine to determine a key phrase that frequently occur throughout each document. One or more documents are grouped together based a corresponding statistically improbable phrase. |
| US08396844B1 |
Hierarchical method for storing data with improved compression
A hierarchical data-compression method is described, with a compact form for sequences of consecutive tuples (and other techniques) to save space. A method for efficiently processing a subset of record fields is described. A flexible method for designing the data hierarchy (tree) is described. |
| US08396842B2 |
Externalized data validation engine
A method and system of externalized data validation. Data input to applications is received. Metadata specifying types of the received data is received. Methods to cleanse the received data are determined based on the metadata. Based on the determined methods and received metadata, a validation engine external to the applications cleanses and validates the received data. The validated data is sent to the applications for use by the applications. Via a subscription service and without requiring updates to the applications, a service provider provides dynamic updates of the validation engine to mitigate newly identified events associated with input to the applications. |
| US08396836B1 |
System for mitigating file virtualization storage import latency
A system and method for reducing latency when re-routing at least partial client communications from a first, active data center site to a second data center site due to a virtualization service disruption. Configuration data is imported from the first file virtualization device, wherein the configuration data represents object relationships and mapping information between components in the first data center site and the second data center site. An instruction is received for the back-up file virtualization device to begin handling at least one virtualization service that is disrupted at the first data center site. A most recent import of the configuration data is loaded for the one or more disrupted virtualization services and enabled such that the back-up file virtualization device performs the disrupted virtualization service with one or more storage devices in the second data center site using the at least a portion of the imported configuration data. |
| US08396835B2 |
Computer system and its data control method
Provided are a computer system and its data control method that enable safe backup of data and reduction in the capacity of data to be backed up. A control processor refers to a differential and, if a differential bit is “0,” encrypts data of an online VOL with an encryption circuit by using key information, and transfers the encrypted data to a second storage system. If the differential bit is “1,” the control processor performs redundancy elimination processing to journal data, thereafter compresses the journal data with a compression circuit, encrypts the compressed journal data with an encryption circuit according to the key information, and transfers the journal data that was encrypted after compression to the second storage system. |
| US08396831B2 |
Optimistic serializable snapshot isolation
The subject disclosure relates to a concurrency control technique that ensures isolation among concurrently execution transactions optimistically in a multiversion database by applying two optional tests at the end of a read-write transaction: validating the visibility of the read set of the read-write transaction(s) and phantom detection by re-scanning and confirming no new version have appeared in the view. Depending on desired level of isolation, both, one or none of the test are applied. Each version of a data record in an applicable database can be assigned two timestamps indicating the lifetime the version. The value of a version timestamp, though assigned, may be conditional on a transaction committing. |
| US08396828B2 |
Providing lightweight multidimensional online data storage for web service usage reporting
Distributed and local processes analyze usage data and transform it into objects including timestamps and dimensions. Objects include a position vector to represent dimension analysis and additional attributes associated with measurements of different types. The objects are stored in a multidimensional database indexed on the vector and timestamp attributes. |
| US08396827B2 |
Relation-based hierarchy evaluation of recursive nodes
Systems and processes may access data in various graph structures, often including data models that do not partially or fully utilize relations such as hierarchical graphs. For example, software for processing this non-relational data identifies a data model that includes a plurality of nodes independent of relations, each non-root node storing an identifier of the particular node's parent. The software then processes the data model using a generic graph service that utilizes nodes and relations. In some cases, such data models may include hierarchical graph structures and one or more of the nodes may be a recursive node. |
| US08396826B2 |
Systems and methods for optimization of real time production operations
Systems and methods for optimization of real time production operations. In one embodiment, a moving time horizon based parametric model provides fast predictions for production optimization in a short-term framework. In another embodiment, multiple technologies are selected in connection with asset performance workflows that are uniquely implemented in a multi-phase approach. |
| US08396822B2 |
Clustering cookies for identifying unique mobile devices
Embodiments are directed towards clustering cookies for identifying unique mobile devices for associating activities over a network with a given mobile device. The cookies are clustered based on a Bayes Factor similarity model that is trained from cookie features of known mobile devices. The clusters may be used to determine the number of unique mobile devices that access a website. The clusters may also be used to provide targeted content to each unique mobile device. |
| US08396819B2 |
Unique interface in service oriented architecture
A service architected logistics solution generates a user interface to a computing system unique for a given user among a multiplicity of users. The interface includes a plurality of services and access to data sources automatically determined from the user's identity. In various aspects, the technique includes not only the interface, but also a computer-implemented method, a program storage medium encoded with instruction that perform such a method when executed, and a computing apparatus programmed to perform such a method. |
| US08396818B2 |
Operating a communications network
In operating a communications network, a set of derived events occurs in dependence on at least one primary event in the communications network. A learning method for determining the set of derived events by analyzing the at least one primary event and by predicting the set of derived events based on relations concerning network entities and/or events in the communications network is implemented to support the management of the communications network in a more efficient way. |
| US08396816B2 |
Kernel function generating method and device and data classification device
Kernel functions, the number of which is set in advance, are linearly coupled to generate the most suitable Kernel function for a data classification. An element Kernel generating unit 102 generates a plurality of element Kernel functions K1-Kp by using a plurality of distance functions (distance scales) d1-dp prepared in advance.A Kernel optimizing unit 103 generates an integrated Kernel function K with which the element Kernel functions K1-Kp are linearly coupled, determines coupling coefficients to optimally separate the teacher data z, and optimizes the integrated Kernel function K.A Kernel component display unit 104 displays each of the element Kernel functions K1-Kp, its coupling coefficient, and a distance scale corresponding to each of the element kernel functions on a display device 150. |
| US08396815B2 |
Adaptive business process automation
A method, system, and computer program product are provided for process automation. The method includes: monitoring one or more workstations including monitoring screen contents and user actions at the workstation; and analysing the screen contents and user actions into monitored functional events. The method further includes: providing multiple focal states as defined sequences of functional events with one or more facilitating scripts associated with a focal state, wherein a facilitating script provides one or more automatic actions; and matching a sequence of monitored functional events to a defined sequence of functional events of a focal state. The one or more automatic actions of a facilitating script associated with the matched focal state are then applied. |
| US08396812B2 |
Method of, and system for, real estate index generation
A method and system for generating a real estate property index uses real estate data including price data, property data and time of sale data that are entered into a computing apparatus. The time of sale data is manipulated to provide consecutive triple times giving two consecutive time periods (e.g., March, April, May 2007 and April, May, June 2007). A transform function, preferably a log function, is generated with two time dummy variables, and the coefficients of the two time dummy variables are extracted and added to generate a transformed growth rate. The reverse transform function, preferably an anti-log function, is generated to provide the desired untransformed growth rate. |
| US08396808B2 |
Method and system for transferring an electronic payment
A method and system for transferring an electronic payment between a purchaser and a merchant that includes assigning a role of a merchant account to a first account and a role of a purchaser account to a second account within a payment system, adding an item from a product catalog stored in the payment system to a purchase list, obtaining a user ID token of a purchaser from a merchant terminal, communicating identity confirmation information associated with the user ID token to the merchant terminal, and transferring funds for the purchase price total from the purchaser account to the merchant account. |
| US08396805B2 |
Management apparatus, information processing apparatus, management method, and information processing method
A management apparatus includes a registering unit configured to issue a first key corresponding to a first service in response to a request for registration with the first service from a first information processing apparatus; a storage unit configured to store an apparatus ID of the first information processing apparatus, the first key, and a second key corresponding to a second service while associating the apparatus ID, the first key, and the second key with each other; and a composite license issuing unit configured to issue a composite license including a first license and a second license, the first license including first encrypted data, which is a content key that is used to decrypt the encrypted content and that is encrypted with the first key, and the second license including second encrypted data, which is the content key that is encrypted with the second key. |
| US08396803B1 |
Medical data encryption for communication over a vulnerable system
A system for securing patient medical information for communication over a potentially vulnerable system includes separating patient's medical file into a demographics layer and a data layer, separately encrypting the demographic layer and data layer using different encryption keys, and providing servers in a communication and processing system with a decryption key for the layer processed by such server. Medical file data may be separated into more than two layers. Users accessing the system are authenticated using standard techniques. By separately encrypting different parts of a patient medical record, processing and communication of patient medical files by intermediary servers is enabled without risking disclosure of sensitive patient information if such servers are compromised. |
| US08396799B2 |
Media device payments remote control personalization and protection
A server is operable to receive a media device identifying number (ID) and to create an established association between the media device with a payment account and to support at least one of payment authorization and payment clearing based at least in part on the media device ID and the payment account. The server is further operable to produce the payment account information to a smart card personalization service server to facilitate creation of a smart card with the payment account information that is associated with the media device. The server is also operable to produce the media device ID to the smart card personalization service server to facilitate creation of a smart card with the payment account information based in part on the media device ID. |
| US08396797B2 |
Data source independent interface for an electronic bill presentment and payment system
An electronic bill presentment and payment system including an extensible, customizable, data source independent data layer for accessing a business data repository for processing billing information. The business data repositories use one or more data source formats. A business logic module generating business data requests for data from the business data repository in order to carry out processing of billing information. The business data requests are independent of the one or more data source formats of the business data repository. A data layer descriptor repository stores customizable data source descriptions for generating the data layer. The data layer is generated from the customizable descriptors in the data layer descriptor repository. The data layer module receives the data source independent business data requests and based on the request, the data layer implements a data source specific method for fulfilling the request by accessing data in the business data repository. |
| US08396795B2 |
Method and software application and system for automated bill processing
Methods and systems are provided for processing one or more bills of a biller.Methods and systems may present a request to pay one or more of a set of one or more bills in total or in part on a site of a computer network,A selection of the one or more bills from a customer may be received, said selection responding to said request via said site.Method and system may generate an electronic advice of settlement of the selected bills comprising an ID, and present the electronic advice of settlement and/or the ID to the customer or to a payment service provider. |
| US08396794B1 |
Method and system for processing a financial transaction
A method for performing a financial transaction that includes identifying a plurality of payment options associated with a payer executing the financial transaction, wherein each of the plurality of payment options is linked to a financial account of the payer, obtaining cost data and benefit data for each of the plurality of payment options, wherein the cost data includes a cost of using the payment option for the financial transaction and the benefit data includes a benefit of using the payment option for the financial transaction, selecting a preferred payment option from the plurality of payment options for the financial transaction based on the cost data and the benefit data, and processing the financial transaction using the preferred payment option to obtain a transaction confirmation. |
| US08396792B1 |
Dynamically specifying a merchant identifier in an electronic financial transaction
In a system where a merchant conducts transactions on behalf of more than one entity, a method is provided for dynamically selecting a merchant account name. A merchant acting on behalf of a business entity conducts a transaction with a cardholder. An acquirer receives information for processing the financial card transaction. The acquirer generates a merchant account name that identifies the entity for which the merchant is conducting the transaction. The merchant account name is specified based on transmittal information and the merchant account name is associated with the transaction. |
| US08396791B2 |
System and method for assessing and managing financial transactions
A financial terms alert generation system comprises an information retrieval module, a financial terms comparison module, and an alert transmission module. The information retrieval module is configured to retrieve financing information, customer information, and product information from one or more sources accessible on a network. The financial terms comparison module is configured to compare a customer's current financial arrangement to a potential new financial arrangement to determine whether the customer is able to enter into a new financial arrangement on terms favorable to the customer. The alert transmission module is configured to transmit an alert to a dealer in cases in which the financial terms comparison module determines that a customer is able to enter into a new financial arrangement on terms favorable to the customer. Such alerts identify the customer and the favorable financial terms. |
| US08396784B2 |
System and method for displaying money management information in an electronic trading environment
A system and method for displaying a plurality of profit and risk related indicators are described. A graphical interface displays and dynamically updates a plurality of profit/loss (P/L) indicators including a realized, net, and open indicator. The net and open indicators are based on a trader's net position and a current market level, while the realized indicator is based on trader's buys and sells associated with a tradeable objects. In one embodiment, the plurality of indicators are displayed in relation to a plurality of money management regions defining a maximum order quantity and a maximum net position controlling the trader's trades, so that a trader can quickly determine his current as well as potential money management parameters. The graphical interface may also display a plurality of potential risk/gain indicators in relation to a realized profit indicator so that a trader, before entering an order having a predetermined order quantity, can view a potential risk/gain in entering into a predetermined net position in view of potential market movements. |
| US08396783B2 |
Method and system for provision and acquisition of medical services and products
Transactional costs associated with providing professional services are reduced by allowing prospective patients/clients (bidders) and professional service providers to negotiate competitively for desired fees for proffered services through an interactive on-line communications network such as the Internet. In an exemplary arrangement, a transaction system includes a communications network server that interfaces and communicates online with client computer systems belonging to various prospective bidders and personal medical service providers using, for example, an exchange of HTML documents and/or JAVA script applets. A service feedback interface and database are provided for handling online feedback information and comments from patients/clients and providers regarding the complexity and quality of services received or provided. A procedure complexity rating value based on concurrent personal medical problems/pre-existing conditions known to the prospective patient is defined and posted online. |
| US08396781B2 |
Interest dissemination process and method
A system to disseminate attributable interest information includes an internal interface that receives attributable interest messages concerning a specific security that is traded on a computerized trading system. Each attributable interest message includes a lot size, a per unit value, and a market participant identifier. An interest grouping process groups the attributable interest messages according to their per unit values, forming a plurality of price level groups. An external interface publishes, over an information bus, the attributable interest messages included in one or more selected price level groups that are chosen from the plurality of price level groups. |
| US08396780B1 |
Community based financial product
A method of creating a financial product. A virtual community is established. Members of the community submit preferences to a server. The preferences are aggregated and manipulated to identify characteristics of the preferences. From the population of preferences submitted, a small subset is identified to be part of the financial product. |
| US08396779B2 |
Method and machine configured to display multiple computer screens
A machine and method including a computer configured to generate and display multiple computer screens. A first computer receives data representing a first component of property and a second component of the property from at least one other computer, the property being a fixed-income asset, and is programmed to manipulate the data to generate one yield/discount rate for the first component and another yield/discount rate for the second component and to display the one yield/discount rate on a monitor in a first computer screen generated by the first computer and the other yield/discount rate on a monitor in one of the first computer screen and another computer screen generated by the first computer, and to compute purchase prices for the components in consummating a sale and corresponding purchase of the first component to one buyer and a sale and corresponding purchase of the second component to another buyer. |
| US08396775B1 |
Optimal glide path design for funding financial commitments
Methods are provided for allocating assets of defined benefit or defined contribution investing plans that yield the highest post-employment standard of living given a level of risk acceptable to plan participants, and that minimize saving rates and risk. The Nash equilibrium glide path representing a series of time-dependent investment portfolios including multiple asset classes is generated, taking into account demographic data for plan participants and at least one selected risk tolerance level, and utilizing computer-implemented optimization. Multiple moments of a stochastic present value of future cash flows are calculated, and a matching distribution is selected. Risk analysis of the glide path and financial commitments utilizes this matching distribution. |
| US08396774B2 |
System and method for providing a financial instrument with a periodic step-up feature
One embodiment of the invention is a method for providing a financial instrument including determining a current account balance for a financial account and on a first periodic basis: determining a specified percentage of the value of the financial account, determine the greater of a particular limit and the highest value of the financial account multiplied by the specified percentage on a second periodic basis, and in response to a determination that the highest value of the financial account multiplied by the specified percentage on the second periodic basis is greater than the particular limit, stepping-up the particular limit to equal the highest value of the financial account multiplied by the specified percentage on the second periodic basis. |
| US08396761B2 |
Providing product catalog software application as enterprise services
Methods and apparatus, including systems and computer program products, for a services architecture design that provides enterprise services having product catalog functionality at the level of an enterprise application. The design includes a set of service operations, process components, and optionally deployment units. Suitable business objects are also described. |
| US08396757B2 |
Estimating future grid job costs by classifying grid jobs and storing results of processing grid job microcosms
A method, system, and program for estimating future grid job costs by classifying grid jobs and storing results of processing grid job microcosms are provided. In general, a client side agent estimates future grid job costs by comparing a current grid job of a particular classification with a history of stored costs for other grid jobs of that customer of that particular classification. In particular, the grid client agent for a client system enabled to submit grid jobs to a grid provider that facilitates a grid environment, calculates a ratio of an application based metric to a grid provider metric for processing a particular grid job. Then, the grid client agent creates a table with an entry comparing the application based metric to a cost per grid provider metric for the grid provider based on the calculated ratio. Next, the grid client agent stores the table with the entry. Then, responsive to detecting a next grid job, the grid client agent estimates a cost for the grid provider to process the next grid job based on a particular number of application based metric operations required for the next grid job, translated by the ratio into the grid provider metric and multiplied by the cost per grid provider metric. |
| US08396752B2 |
Method for managing listing prices in an ecommerce environment
A computer-implemented method for managing listing prices in an ecommerce environment. The method includes receiving from a user information, including price information, pertaining to a user's listing on an ecommerce web site, receiving from the user at least one search term that is not a valid UPC, ISBN, EAN, eBay Product ID, or ASIN, searching the ecommerce web site using the search term(s) received from the user and retrieving from the ecommerce web site at least one item listing relevant to the search term(s), and using an algorithm that utilizes the price of the at least one item retrieved from the ecommerce web site to determine a new price for the user's listing. |
| US08396750B1 |
Method and system for using recommendations to prompt seller improvement
Disclosed are various embodiments for recommending improvements in merchant network sites. In one example, a plurality of recommendations are stored in a memory accessible by a server, the recommendations being applicable to improve an operation of the network presence of at least one of a plurality of online merchants, and wherein a criteria is associated with each of the recommendations, each criteria determining whether a corresponding one of the recommendations applies to the network presence of a respective one of the online merchants. A subset of the recommendations applicable to the network presence of one of the online merchants is identified and an implementation status is determined for each of the subset of recommendations. The recommendations in the subset are presented along with the implementation status of each of the recommendations to an agent of the one of the online merchants. |
| US08396749B2 |
Providing customer relationship management application as enterprise services
Methods and apparatus, including systems and computer program products, for a services architecture design that provides enterprise services having customer relationship management functionality at the level of an enterprise application. The design includes a set of service operations, process components, and optionally deployment units. Suitable business objects are also described. |
| US08396747B2 |
Identity theft and fraud protection system and method
A system and method for preventing personal identity theft when making online and offline purchases requires a purchaser to first subscribe and become a member user by registering and providing relevant personal identity information. Once registered, the member is assigned a user name and a password. The subscribing member's personal identity information is then encrypted and stored at one or more highly secure locations. The ID protection system obtains a controlled use card (CUC) through a CUC issuer on behalf of the member for use to make each purchase transaction. The CUC is anonymous with respect to user (member) identity and may be a purchase-specific single-use card or a multiple-use stored value card with no traceable connection to any other financial account. When the member makes a secure online purchase, the system software enters anonymous information (i.e. not revealing the member's real name, email address, billing information, etc.) on the merchant's order placement screen, except in instances where the member's real identity information is required (e.g. airline tickets). The merchant receives the completed checkout screen, obtains credit approval through a credit card association, and sends the shipping information to a shipper which independently obtains the correct shipping name and address from the ID protection system prior to shipping the purchased product(s). |
| US08396741B2 |
Mining interactions to manage customer experience throughout a customer service lifecycle
A customer experience is improved through data mining and text mining technologies and that derive insights about a customer by analyzing interactions between the customer and a customer service agent. One or more numerical measurements of customer satisfaction are derived and recommended actions are provided to an agent to enhance the customer experience throughout a customer service lifecycle. |
| US08396740B1 |
Method for monitoring and displaying of utility consumption
A method is disclosed for displaying utility consumption of a property portfolio for zones of a display area. First values correspond to utility consumption and second values corresponding to consumption intensity are first determined. The first values for each zone are ranked from high to low values and associated with a size of a geometric form corresponding to each of the zones. Similarly, the second values for each zone are ranked from high to low values and associated with a corresponding color, with a highest of the second values having a first color representing a highest consumption intensity, the smallest of the second values having a second color representing the lowest consumption intensity, and the remaining of the second values are associated with mixtures of the first color and second color. The respective geometric forms for each of the zones are displayed on the map at respective spatial locations. |
| US08396738B1 |
System and method for evaluating third party marketing services
A method and a system for evaluating, determining and customizing third party marketing services, where a listing of reasonable values for a given criteria is generated and referenced when determining the consideration to be paid for the service related to the criteria. The given criteria may include a geographic area, so that the listing of reasonable values is for a number of geographic areas, and the consideration is determined for services to be provided in any one or combination of the geographic areas. Listing of reasonable values may include a listing of baseline fair market value (FMV) basis points that may be applied in determining the fair market value of marketing services provided. The marketing service provided may be based on a custom marketing plan prepared for a specific partner for a specific geographic area with reference to specific marketing media. |
| US08396737B2 |
Website analysis combining quantitative and qualitative data
Systems, methods, media, and other embodiments associated with predicting website user satisfaction based on current actions analyzed in light of combined quantitative and qualitative data are described. One example system embodiment includes logic for acquiring both quantitative website usage data and qualitative website satisfaction data. The example system also includes logic for creating a satisfaction categorization data from the quantitative website usage data and the qualitative website satisfaction data. |
| US08396736B2 |
Systems and methods for providing documentation having succinct communication with scalability
Systems and methods for defining and documenting processes, procedures, standards and policies that are succinct and usable, and that are scalable to the complexity of the process and to abilities of the individual user. Steps of a particular process and a relationship of one or more of the steps are identified. Graphical representations of the steps and the relationship as a lean process are provided, wherein the lean process enhances and increases communication and minimizes documentation for providing the graphical representations, and wherein the representations comprise key process elements for the particular process, wherein the key process elements consist of one or more inputs, outputs, activities, process context, entry criteria, exit criteria, purposes, process flow, and roles, and wherein the representation is on a single page if a receiver of the non-verbal communication is an expert audience. If a receiver of the non-verbal communication is an intermediate audience, the non-verbal communication further comprises a process description table having the identified process steps that correspond to the representation of key process elements, wherein the process description table provides guidance and lessons learned relating to the particular process; and if a receiver of the non-verbal communication is a beginner audience, the non-verbal communication further comprises the process description table and training relating to the particular process. |
| US08396734B2 |
Conflict resolution mechanism for managing calendar events with a mobile communication device
The present invention discloses a method for handling scheduling conflicts. The method can include a step of conveying scheduled events to a mobile communication device. Times associated with the events can be analyzed to determine potential conflicts. A set of previously established conflict resolution rules can be applied to the potential conflicts. Recommendations for resolving the potential conflicts can be generated based upon the applied rules. A notification of the potential conflicts and the generated recommendations can be presented to a user of the mobile device through an interface of the mobile communication device. The notifications and recommendations can occur a sufficient time before the potentially conflicting events occur to permit anticipatory actions to be taken to alleviate the conflicts before their occurrence. |
| US08396720B2 |
Patient diagnosis using triage protocols that have customized messages at exit points
A decison flowchart of a triage protocol is provided for a medical condition of a patient. The flowchart includes a plurality of decision blocks. Each decision block relates to one or more patient symptoms and/or considerations. A plurality of exit points are provided in the flowchart. Each exit point is associated with a respective decision block. Each exit point is reached upon the presence or absence of a symptom or consideration in the respective decision block. Each exit point recommends an action to be taken by the patient. The exit points may be customized. More specifically, the recommended action at selected exit points may be individually selected from a plurality of selectable actions. Thus, the decision flowchart may provide different recommended courses of action for a patient having the same symptoms and/or considerations based upon individual selections. The recommended action becomes an exit message for the respective exit point. |
| US08396719B2 |
Real-time customer service assistance using collected customer life cycle data
A computer-implemented method is performed during a single communication session between a customer service representative (CSR) of a merchant, and the merchant's customer. The conversation between the CSR and the customer is analyzed to determine an issue. Previously collected information about the customer is accessed, from a database that stores information about customers of the merchant. A tip is determined and sent to be displayed to the CSR. The tip is determined based on the mood and the accessed previously collected information. Other embodiments are also described and claimed. |
| US08396718B2 |
Determining whether a response from a participant is contradictory in an objective manner
If a response is with a threshold of the predicted response, then the contradictory response is classified as being independent and it is not truly contradictory. If a response is beyond a threshold, the response is classified as not being independent and is likely worthy of further investigation. |
| US08396717B2 |
Speech encoding apparatus and speech encoding method
There is provided an audio encoding device capable of maintaining continuity of spectrum energy and preventing degradation of audio quality even when a spectrum of a low range of an audio signal is copied at a high range a plurality of times. The audio encoding device (100) includes: an LPC quantization unit (102) for quantizing an LPC coefficient; an LPC decoding unit (103) for decoding the quantized LPC coefficient; an inverse filter unit (104) for flattening the spectrum of the input audio signal by the inverse filter configured by using the decoding LPC coefficient; a frequency region conversion unit (105) for frequency-analyzing the flattened spectrum; a first layer encoding unit (106) for encoding the low range of the flattened spectrum to generate first layer encoded data; a first layer decoding unit (107) for decoding the first layer encoded data to generate a first layer decoded spectrum, and a second layer encoding unit (108) for encoding. |
| US08396716B2 |
Signal compression method and apparatus
A signal compression method includes: multiplying an input signal by a window function, calculating original autocorrelation coefficients of a windowed input signal. The method also includes calculating a white-noise correction factor or a lag-window according to the original autocorrelation coefficients, and calculating modified autocorrelation coefficients according to the original autocorrelation coefficients, the white-noise correction factor and the lag-window. The method further includes calculating linear prediction coefficients according to the modified autocorrelation coefficients, and outputting a coded bit stream according to the linear prediction coefficients. |
| US08396713B2 |
Method and system for using a statistical language model and an action classifier in parallel with grammar for better handling of out-of-grammar utterances
A method (and system) of handling out-of-grammar utterances includes building a statistical language model for a dialog state using, generating sentences and semantic interpretations for the sentences using finite state grammar, building a statistical action classifier, receiving user input, carrying out recognition with the finite state grammar, carrying out recognition with the statistical language model, using the statistical action classifier to find semantic interpretations, comparing an output from the finite state grammar and an output from the statistical language model, deciding which output of the output from the finite state grammar and the output from the statistical language model to keep as a final recognition output, selecting the final recognition output, and outputting the final recognition result, wherein the statistical action classifier, the finite state grammar and the statistical language model are used in conjunction to carry out speech recognition and interpretation. |
| US08396709B2 |
Speech recognition using device docking context
Methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for performing speech recognition using dock context. In one aspect, a method includes accessing audio data that includes encoded speech. Information that indicates a docking context of a client device is accessed, the docking context being associated with the audio data. A plurality of language models is identified. At least one of the plurality of language models is selected based on the docking context. Speech recognition is performed on the audio data using the selected language model to identify a transcription for a portion of the audio data. |
| US08396707B2 |
Method and device for efficient quantization of transform information in an embedded speech and audio codec
A method and device for coding an input sound signal in at least one lower layer and at least one upper layer of an embedded codec comprises, in the at least one lower layer, coding the input sound signal to produce coding parameters, wherein coding the input sound signal comprises producing a synthesized sound signal. An error signal is computed as a difference between the input sound signal and the synthesized sound signal and a spectral mask is calculated as a function of a minima of a spectrum related to the input sound signal. In the at least one upper layer, the error signal is coded to produce coding coefficients, the spectral mask is applied to the coding coefficients, and the masked coding coefficients are quantized. Applying the spectral mask to the coding coefficients reduces the quantization noise produced upon quantizing the coding coefficients. |
| US08396700B2 |
Aggregate simulation
The present disclosure provides, among other things, a method for generating a simulated aggregate based on one or more input parameters. A test aggregate is constructed and rotated. Stable orientations of the aggregate on a surface are determined. In specific examples, two-dimensional properties are calculated for stable orientations of the test aggregate and stored or displayed. In particular implementations of the method, the test aggregate is constructed through successive monomer addition. |
| US08396697B2 |
Error compensation method for multi-axis controlled machines
An error compensation method for multi-axis controlled machines generates an error compensation model for compensating for geometric error of a multi-axis controlled machine by separating an error matrix of a tool tip from an error synthesis model of a multi-axis controlled machine and calculates an error compensation value using the error compensation model and an inverse kinematic model so that the error matrix becomes an identity matrix. The error compensation method can reduce calculation error and calculation time due to complicated numerical analysis and compensate for error in the multi-axis controlled machine, regardless of its configuration. |
| US08396692B2 |
Site ultraviolet radiation exposure planner
A computer-enabled interactive site planner; said site planner adapted to the determination of solar radiation exposure profiles for a user-specified location; said site planner further adapted to providing data on shade providing objects and strategies for reduction of exposure risk appropriate to said user-specific location. |
| US08396688B2 |
Systems and methods for impulse noise characterization
Impulse noise from nearby or intense electrical sources can disrupt communications over digital subscriber lines (DSL). The characterization of the nature, timing and length of impulse noise sources present on a DSL loop is a critical first step in mitigating the effect of impulse noise on DSL communications. DSL standards provide histograms for impulse length and inter-arrival time of impulses. These histograms can be used to derive the nature, maximum frequency and other statistics related to impulse noise on a DSL line. |
| US08396685B2 |
Small form-factor distance sensor
The subject matter disclosed herein relates to determining a distance from a mobile device to a remote object or a size of the remote object. An embodiment of the disclosure rotates a rotatable micro-reflector to direct energy toward a remote surface, said rotatable micro-reflector disposed in a mobile device, wherein said rotating is relative to said mobile device. An embodiment of the disclosure further measures a distance based at least in part on reflected energy from said remote surface resulting from said directed energy. |
| US08396680B2 |
System and method for identifying issues in current and voltage measurements
First and second reference voltages are applied to first and second terminals of a processor via voltage divider circuits. First and second signal conditioning circuits are coupled to third and fourth terminals of the processor, respectively, and voltage or current sensors are coupled to the first and second signal conditioning circuits. The processor measures the electrical characteristics at the third and fourth terminals and computes first and second ratiometric values of the electrical characteristics, wherein the first ratiometric value is based upon a measurement obtained from the third terminal and the first reference voltage and the second ratiometric value is based upon a measurement of obtained from the fourth terminal and the second reference voltage. The processor further identifies an issue if a ratio of the first ratiometric value to the second ratiometric value exceeds a ratio of the first reference value to the second reference value. |
| US08396678B2 |
Peakpower energy management and control system method and apparatus
An integrated Energy Management and/or Control System method and apparatus that continually monitors power consumption on each piece of equipment 24/7 and performs detailed analyses of energy consumption curves including derivatives and compares data to historical data on the same equipment as well as going online and acquiring manufacturers specs and comparing to that as well as the same model number equipment in the same or other locations, in order to detect anomalies, abnormal energy consumption or provide early warning of equipment failures. |
| US08396677B2 |
Method for monitoring the shaft current and/or the insulation of the shaft of electric machines and device for performing the method
A method is disclosed for monitoring shaft current (Iw) and/or insulation of the shaft of an electrodynamic machine, wherein susceptibility to interference can be reduced. A shaft voltage (Uw) and associated shaft current (Iw) are measured, and a relationship is determined from measurement results for the shaft voltage (Uw) and the shaft current (Iw) for the electrodynamic machine. The shaft voltage (Uw) can be monitored to monitor the shaft current (Iw), the shaft current (Iw) being deduced from the monitored shaft voltage (Uw) based on a determined relationship between the shaft voltage (Uw) and the associated shaft current (Iw). |
| US08396668B2 |
Marine seismic surveying employing interpolated multicomponent streamer pressure data
It is described a method of interpolating and extrapolating seismic recordings, including the steps of deriving particle velocity related data from seismic recordings obtained by at least one streamer carrying a plurality of multi-component receivers and using the particle velocity related data to replace higher derivatives of pressure data in an expansion series. |
| US08396665B2 |
Portable navigation device
A portable navigation device (PND) is disclosed comprising processing means, a graphical display, memory, map data stored in said memory, user-input means, and signal reception means for receiving one or more wireless signals by means of which the processor can determine a present location of the device and in conjunction with user input desired destination information, and perform route calculation and subsequent navigation functions, such being performed by software installed on the device. The PND is additionally provided with a connector by means of which said PND can be physically connected to third party devices or systems. The invention is characterized in that said PND is adapted to establish a communication, via said physical connection, with a vehicle controller area network consisting thus becoming a node thereon and capable of communicating with other nodes thereon, each of said nodes having functionality represented by one or more signals distributed around said controller area network and received by said PND. The invention is further characterized in that said PND includes a first software translation layer enabling the communication between PND and one or more nodes, and a second software routine layer comprising one or more routines specific to the functionality of one or more of said other nodes so as to effectively communicate therewith and utilize their functionality. Examples of third party devices include hands-free communications modules, gateway nodes, the vehicle stereo system, engine management system, seat position controllers, multifunction steering wheel, dashboard and console displays, integrated navigation systems, and the like. The invention allows the PND either to receive and interpret information from the controller area network and retrieve information from one or more devices forming nodes on that network for display on the PND or improved operation thereof, or to cause control or state change of one or more of the devices forming nodes on the controller area network. Voice control of the PND is also possible in the case a voice recognition system is provided as a node on the controller area network, and additionally, the vocal instructions issued by the PND can be caused to be replayed through the car stereo, if such is also connected to the controller area network within the vehicle. |
| US08396664B2 |
3-D golf course navigation device and image acquisition method
The present invention provides three-dimensional, topographic data (x,y,z) for a golf course navigation device. In an embodiment of the invention, three data sets are acquired for each golf hole: (1) geospatial digital image data, (2) geospatial terrain data including elevation and topographic measurements, and (3) object data pertaining to trees, bushes, water hazards, buildings, and any other objects present. Each hole is mapped using high resolution airborne photogrammetry and in some cases, light detection and ranging acquisition sensors. Geospatial, three-dimensional terrain data is acquired using a photogrammetry and/or stereo photogrammetry compilation. Object data is acquired from measurements taken from ground level. From all of this acquired data, a three-dimensional (x,y,z) geospatial model is built and then integrated into 3-D gaming, visualization and web mapping environments such as Microsoft Bing Maps, Google Earth, and various mobile and golf cart mounted, golf course navigation systems. |
| US08396652B2 |
Map data providing method
A map data providing method for providing map data to be used in a navigation system includes: dividing an area over which the map data are available into a plurality of blocks by using each of a plurality of division patterns set so that blocks resulting from divisions with the plurality of division patterns are not identical to one another; generating map data in correspondence to each of the blocks resulting from the divisions achieved with the plurality of division patterns; and providing the map data corresponding to the individual blocks resulting from the divisions achieved with the plurality of division patterns to a user so as to allow the user to freely select map data corresponding to any block. |
| US08396649B2 |
Method and apparatus for reconstructing in-cylinder pressure and correcting for signal decay
A method comprises steps for reconstructing in-cylinder pressure data from a vibration signal collected from a vibration sensor mounted on an engine component where it can generate a signal with a high signal-to-noise ratio, and correcting the vibration signal for errors introduced by vibration signal charge decay and sensor sensitivity. The correction factors are determined as a function of estimated motoring pressure and the measured vibration signal itself with each of these being associated with the same engine cycle. Accordingly, the method corrects for charge decay and changes in sensor sensitivity responsive to different engine conditions to allow greater accuracy in the reconstructed in-cylinder pressure data. An apparatus is also disclosed for practicing the disclosed method, comprising a vibration sensor, a data acquisition unit for receiving the vibration signal, a computer processing unit for processing the acquired signal and a controller for controlling the engine operation based on the reconstructed in-cylinder pressure. |
| US08396648B2 |
Method for regulating the combustion position in an internal combustion engine
A method for the closed-loop control of the combustion position in an internal combustion engine with several cylinders, especially in a diesel engine, with at least one engine operating parameter being detected, wherein a cylinder-selective combustion position model which is arithmetic or based on characteristic values is provided which produces a relationship between at least one determined engine operating parameter and the combustion position, and the combustion position is determined on the basis of the determined engine operating parameter by the combustion position model for each cylinder. |
| US08396645B2 |
High efficiency internal combustion engine
An internal combustion engine system that converts thermal energy from an exhaust of an engine to mechanical energy includes a heat exchanger thermally coupled to an exhaust from an internal combustion process. The heat exchanger receives a heat transfer fluid therein. A generator is coupled to the heat exchanger. The heat transfer fluid expands and evaporates in the generator in response to heat from the exhaust of the internal combustion process. The expansion of the heat transfer fluid vapor converts thermal energy of the heat transfer fluid to mechanical energy. |
| US08396637B2 |
System and method for automatic transmission shift control
A control system for an automatic transmission coupled to an engine by a torque converter includes a torque module and a first clutch control module. The torque module determines an input torque to the transmission based on an output torque of the engine. The first clutch control module adjusts an acceleration of a turbine of the torque converter during a down shift of the transmission based on the input torque. The first clutch control module adjusts the acceleration of the turbine by adjusting a first pressure of fluid supplied to an off-going clutch of the transmission based on the input torque. The first clutch control module adjusts the first pressure based on a mathematical model that relates a torque capacity of the off-going clutch, the input torque, and the acceleration. A method is also provided. |
| US08396634B2 |
Method and apparatus for maximum and minimum output torque performance by selection of hybrid range state and input speed for a hybrid powertrain system
A powertrain system includes an engine mechanically coupled to an electro-mechanical transmission selectively operative in one of a plurality of transmission operating range states and one of a plurality of engine states. A method for controlling the powertrain system includes determining a current transmission operating range state and engine state, determining at least one potential transmission operating range state and engine state, providing an operator torque request, determining preferability factors associated with the current transmission operating range state and engine state, and potential transmission operating range states and engine states, preferentially weighting the preferability factors for the current transmission operating range state and engine state, and selectively commanding changing the current transmission operating range state and engine state based upon the preferability factors and the operator torque request. |
| US08396633B2 |
Automatic axle disconnect
A method of regulating an axle disconnect device that is operable in an axle assembly of a vehicle drivetrain includes monitoring a plurality of parameters, determining whether an occurrence of at least one of a traction event and a stability event is imminent based on at least one of the parameters, the stability event being determined based on a first set parameters, and the traction event being determined based on a second set of parameters that includes less parameters than the first set of parameters, and regulating the axle disconnect device to an engaged position if the occurrence of the at least one of the traction event and the stability event is imminent. |
| US08396628B2 |
Power on demand steering wheel angle sensor
A power on-demand steering angle sensor coupled to a steering wheel and a controller comprising a switch, coupled to the sensor and the controller. The switch is activated upon motion of the steering wheel or steering shaft. The switch, when closed, connects a power supply, such as a vehicle battery, to the sensor and the controller so that a new steering angle may be sensed and stored. After a predetermined period of time, the controller sends a signal to open the switch and disconnect the power supply. |
| US08396627B2 |
Method for operating a vehicle
In a method for operating a vehicle with wheel suspensions which each have a characteristic curve, the characteristic curve generates a relation between the weight of the vehicle, applied to each wheel suspension, and the respective height of the vehicle at the wheel suspension point. At least two height sensors detect the height at the wheel suspensions, a reference height is associated with the height sensors and represents a pre-defined loading state of the vehicle. The method provides: detecting the height, determining the forces applied to the vehicle, determining the acceleration of the vehicle on the basis of the forces applied to the vehicle, determining an estimated value for the mass of the vehicle from the forces and the acceleration of the vehicle, and determining values representing the reference heights from at least the estimated value for the mass of the vehicle, the characteristic curves of the wheel suspensions, and the detected heights. |
| US08396625B2 |
Active image generation and selective remote actuation of head restraint
A head restraint actuation system is provided having a receiver configured for receiving an image signal, a transmission status signal, a head restraint request signal and a seat information signal. A mirror controller is configured for communicating with the receiver for analyzing the received signals and selecting a rearview mirror mode. A user interface is configured for communicating with the mirror controller for displaying the image signal based on the selection of a first mode, and for enabling transmission of a head restraint request to the mirror controller based on the selection of a second mode. A transmitter is configured for communicating with the mirror controller for transmitting the head restraint request to a seat controller based on the selection of the second mode. A head restraint actuator receives the head restraint request and actuates a corresponding head restraint. |
| US08396622B2 |
Customizable initiation of data recordings
A diagnostic system for a vehicle, includes a computer storing software on a computer readable media, configurable for setting up recording of vehicle operations, selecting from a plurality of customizable triggering operations according to Boolean logic, and a vehicle communication interface detachably connected to the computer, being setup by the computer for recording of vehicle operation while the vehicle is operating and recorded information stored in a computer readable media of the vehicle communication interface being reviewed by the computer, and detachably connected to the vehicle for recording of the vehicle operations. |
| US08396620B2 |
Patrol device and patrol path planning method for the same
The present invention relates to a patrol device and a patrol path planning method. The patrol device includes an operating unit configured to establish a plurality of patrol paths, each of which has an Average Patrol Omission (APO) value and an Average Patrol Quality (APQ) value, and to determine an optimum patrol path from the plurality of patrol paths according to the APO value and the APQ value; and a moving unit configured to move along the optimum patrol path. The method includes providing a plurality of patrol paths, each of which has an Average Patrol Omission (APO) value and an Average Patrol Quality (APQ) value; and evaluating the plurality of patrol paths according to the respective APO values and the respective APQ values so as to select an optimum patrol path therefrom. |
| US08396619B2 |
Hybrid drive motor vehicle control system comprising distributed functional components for controlling hybrid drive operating status
A vehicle control system with a hybrid drive comprising an engine and an electric motor and a plurality of functional components each divided into a strategy sub-component, a control sub-component and an actuator sub-component. The functional components include at least engine, transmission and hybrid functional components. The strategy sub-component (8) of the hybrid functional component (4) comprises an operating status prescription module (17) which reads in a first quantity of data from functional components in order to determine a prescribed value for the operating status of the hybrid drive, processes the read in data in order to produce a second quantity of output variables, and in a second sub-module (29), determines the prescribed value for the operating status of the hybrid drive using the output variables from the first sub-module (27) and with the help of automatic status-determining mechanism. |
| US08396616B1 |
System, module, and method for presenting surface symbology on an aircraft display unit
A present novel and non-trivial system, module, and method for presenting surface symbology on an aircraft display unit are disclosed. Symbology image data representative of an image depicting a runway highlighter adjacent to the assigned runway is generated by a symbology generator based upon assigned runway information and airport surface information provided by a flight management data source and the navigation reference data source, respectively. Such runway highlighter comprises a plurality of runway edge highlighters and a plurality of chevrons pointing in the direction of the assigned runway. The image could include one or more directional runway identifiers. Additionally, the generated image could include the depiction of township location, a line-up distance docking indicator, and/or a groundspeed indicator based upon information provided by a navigation data source. Additionally, the generated image could include the depiction of a wind barb based upon information provided by a weather data source. |
| US08396614B1 |
Graphical depiction of four dimensional trajectory based operation flight plans
The different advantageous embodiments provide a system comprising a user interface and a computer. The user interface comprises a display. The computer is configured to display information about time and position of an aircraft in relation to a number of waypoints for a flight on the display. The information is displayed using a number of graphical display features. |
| US08396611B2 |
Autonomous behaviors for a remote vehicle
A method for enhancing operational efficiency of a remote vehicle using a diagnostic behavior. The method comprises inputting and analyzing data received from a plurality of sensors to determine the existence of deviations from normal operation of the remote vehicle, updating parameters in a reference mobility model based on deviations from normal operation, and revising strategies to achieve an operational goal of the remote vehicle to accommodate deviations from normal operation. An embedded simulation and training system for a remote vehicle. The system comprises a software architecture installed on the operator control unit and including software routines and drivers capable of carrying out mission simulations and training. |
| US08396610B2 |
System for detecting a suspected area
It is well known that tunnels in many cases have been proven as an efficient means to overcome counter trespassing means and enable hostile entities to infiltrate a boarder or other restricted area. There is provided a method and system for efficiently detecting and locating underground tunnels.According to certain aspects, of the invention there is provided a system and method for detecting a suspected area, comprising an underground pipe array disposed substantially in horizontal orientation under the ground and including at least two pipes, the at least two pipes being disposed at different depths, at a predefined distance one with respect to the other, each of the at least two pipes creating an underground pathway infrastructure for accommodating at least one mobile vehicle; each one of the mobile vehicles being equipped with at least sensing and navigation devices for patrolling along a respective pipe, in a coordinated manner, for detecting a suspected area; the predefined distance is designed to be within an effective operational distance of the sensing and navigation devices; command and control, configured to control at least the mobile vehicles, gathering and processing the vehicles' data and creating an updated situation awareness picture of the underground medium. |
| US08396609B2 |
Control of cells, modules and a pack comprised of hybridized electrochemistries
A power management apparatus for a hybridized energy device includes a hybridized energy device including a plurality of units. The units include electrical energy storage and/or gathering cells, in series or in parallel to form a module. A plurality of the modules in series or in parallel form a pack. The power management apparatus also includes a central management apparatus (CMA) interconnecting a plurality of module management apparatus (MMAs) by means of either wired or wireless connections and a plurality of MMAs. Each MMA interconnects with a plurality of unit management apparatuses by means of either wireless or wired communication circuits. The power management apparatus further includes a plurality of units management apparatuses (UMAs), each wired, connected with, or deposited on a unit. Furthermore, the power management apparatus includes a rechargeable battery power source for a CMA, a plurality of MMAs, and a plurality of UMAs. |
| US08396606B2 |
System and method for estimating and providing dispatchable operating reserve energy capacity through use of active load management
A utility employs a method for estimating available operating reserve. Electric power consumption by at least one device serviced by the utility is determined during at least one period of time to produce power consumption data. The power consumption data is stored in a repository. A determination is made that a control event is to occur during which power is to be reduced to one or more devices. Prior to the control event and under an assumption that it is not to occur, power consumption behavior expected of the device(s) is estimated for a time period during which the control event is expected to occur based on the stored power consumption data. Additionally, prior to the control event, projected energy savings resulting from the control event are determined based on the devices' estimated power consumption behavior. An amount of available operating reserve is determined based on the projected energy savings. |
| US08396604B2 |
Method for zone based energy management system with scalable map interface
A method of managing energy use of a network device located at a site with a mobile device is provided. The method proceeds by determining a plurality of zones about the site and detecting a current location of the mobile device relative to the plurality of zones. The method continues by altering the operating condition of the network device in response to detecting the mobile device changing zones. A graphical user interface (GUI) is displayed within the display screen of the mobile device. A map presenting the site location, the plurality of zones disposed about the site location, and the current location of the mobile device is displayed within the GUI along with a distance selector including selectable distance values. The method further includes automatically scaling the plurality of zones and the map in response to changing the selectable distance value using the distance selector. |
| US08396603B2 |
Irrigation controller with integrated wire tracker
The present invention is directed to an irrigation controller, method and software program product for generating wire tracker signal transmission across a control wire. The irrigation controller includes a valve actuation control module selectively coupled to each of a plurality of control wires and generating a valve actuation control signal thereon. The valve actuation control signal is a continuous control voltage over a plurality of control signal periods for selectively energizing the selected irrigation valve. Also integrated in the irrigation controller is a wire tracker transmitter module for selectively coupling to each of a plurality of control wires and generating a transmission signal that can be received at a mobile receiver. |
| US08396600B2 |
Prediction and control solution for polymerization reactor operation
Techniques and systems for the prevention of reactor fouls in polymerization reactors are described. Described embodiments include techniques and systems for performing analyses on reactor data collected over time for the detection of incipient reactor fouling. Techniques are provided for monitoring the state of the reactor as well as for monitoring individual system parameters, including rates of change, for predicting the onset of a reactor foul. In particular, the techniques may be implemented such that predictive proactive control systems may be integrated into polymerization reactor systems to prevent reactor fouling. |
| US08396597B2 |
Distributed robotic guidance
The different illustrative embodiments provide an apparatus that includes a computer system, a number of structured light generators, and a number of mobile robotic devices. The computer system is configured to generate a path plan. The number of structured light generators is configured to project the path plan. The number of mobile robotic devices is configured to detect and follow the path plan. |
| US08396595B2 |
Real-time self collision and obstacle avoidance using weighting matrix
A system, method, and computer program product for avoiding collision of a body segment with other structures in an articulated system are described. According to one aspect, a collision function is determined for avoiding such collision. A distance between the body segment and one such structure is measured. A weighting matrix is generated based on the collision function and the distance, and used to determine a redirected motion for the body segment. The body segment is redirected based on the redirected motion to avoid colliding with the structure. |
| US08396593B2 |
Gait generating device of legged mobile robot
A gait generating device of a legged mobile robot uses virtual surfaces to approximate a plurality of surfaces to be contacted in an operating environment of a robot, and determines the provisional values of the required virtual surface translational forces to be applied from the virtual surfaces to the robot in order to implement a translational motion of a desired motion of the entire robot. Further, to implement a rotational motion of the desired motion of the entire robot, the gait generating device determines moment compensation amounts to be combined with the provisional values of the required virtual surface translational forces and then determines the desired external forces to be applied from the surfaces to be contacted to the robot and the desired external force action points on the basis of the combinations of the provisional values of the required virtual surface translational forces and the moment compensation amounts. |
| US08396592B2 |
Method and system for multi-mode coverage for an autonomous robot
A control system for a mobile robot (10) is provided to effectively cover a given area by operating in a plurality of modes, including an obstacle following mode (51) and a random bounce mode (49). In other embodiments, spot coverage, such as spiraling (45), or other modes are also used to increase effectiveness. In addition, a behavior based architecture is used to implement the control system, and various escape behaviors are used to ensure full coverage. |
| US08396589B2 |
Electronic device for the sale of intangible products in vending machines
An electronic device for the sale of intangible products through vending machines that includes an interface to communicate with external peripherals through the MDB protocol, an interface to communicate with external peripherals through the RS232 standard, an interface to communicate with external peripherals through the DEX protocol, an interface to communicate with users, a communications system which enables it to act as part of a network and communicate with a central system, and a controller, which articulates the communication among the above-mentioned components, so as to enable a central system to perform diverse actions on a vending machine. |
| US08396585B2 |
Method and system for inventory placement according to expected item picking rates
A method and system for inventory placement according to expected item picking rates. In one embodiment, a method may include determining a respective expected picking rate for each of a number of inventory items, and dependent upon the expected picking rate, selecting a corresponding one of a number of zones of an inventory storage area for each of the items. The zones may be physically arranged within the inventory storage area such that a first, innermost zone is successively and at least partially surrounded by one or more other zones. The method may further include storing each of the items within the corresponding zones, such that the expected picking rates of members of a given group of items stored in a given zone are less than the expected picking rates of members of another group of items stored in a successive zone that at least partially surrounds the given zone. |
| US08396570B2 |
Combined optical and electrical neural stimulation
A neural-stimulating device for stimulating nerve cells of a recipient is provided. The neural-stimulating device comprises an electromagnetic radiation source configured to generate one or more optical stimulation signals and an electrical stimulation generator configured to generate electrical stimulation signals. The neural-stimulating device also comprises an implantable stimulating assembly configured to be implanted in the recipient, and having disposed thereon an optical contact to deliver the one or more optical stimulation signals to the nerve cells, and an electrical contact to deliver the electric stimulation signals to the nerve cells. |
| US08396567B2 |
Implantable medical device lead with inductive-capacitive filters having inductors with parallel capacitors to reduce lead heating during MRI
To provide radio-frequency (RF) bandstop filtering within an implantable lead for use in reducing lead heating during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures, parallel inductive-capacitive (LC) filters are provided within the lead. In one example, the ring electrode of the lead is configured to function as one of the capacitive elements of the parallel LC filter to help provide LC bandstop filtering along the ring conductor of the lead. In another example, capacitive plates are provided that sandwich an inductor mounted near the tip of the lead to provide parallel LC bandstop filtering along the tip conductor of the lead. |
| US08396564B2 |
Apparatus and method for the treatment of infectious disease in keratinized tissue
Apparatus and methods for the treatment of keratinized tissue infected with a pathogen are provided. In certain examples, electromagnetic energy, such as microwave energy, may be used in the treatment process to reduce the amount of or eliminate the pathogen from the keratinized tissue. |
| US08396563B2 |
Clock synchronization in an implantable medical device system
This disclosure is directed to the synchronization of clocks of a secondary implantable medical device (IMD) to a clock of a primary IMD. The secondary IMD includes a communications clock. The communications clock may be synchronized based on at least one received communications pulse. The secondary IMD further includes a general purpose clock different than the communications clock. The general purpose clock may be synchronized based on at least one received power pulse. The communications clock may also be synchronized based on the at least one received power pulse. |
| US08396562B2 |
Wide-field retinal prosthesis
A wide-filed retinal prosthesis enables an increased field of vision with a relatively small scleral incision. The retinal prosthesis includes a flexible substrate comprising a central member and at least one wing, with an array of electrodes disposed therein that are configured to stimulate the central and peripheral nerves of the retina. |
| US08396559B2 |
Selective high frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects, and associated systems and methods
Selective high-frequency spinal chord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side affects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal chord region to address low back pain without creating unwanted sensory and/or motor side affects. In other embodiments, modulation in accordance with similar parameters can be applied to other spinal or peripheral locations to address other indications. |
| US08396558B2 |
Methods for treating central pain syndrome and other pain related pathologies
Central pain syndrome (CPS) is a debilitating condition that affects a large number of patients with a primary lesion or dysfunction in the central nervous system. Despite its discovery over a century ago, the pathophysiology underlying the development and maintenance of CPS is poorly understood. The present invention is drawn to novel methods of treating CPS. In certain aspects, the invention is drawn to the novel discovery of the role of the zona incerta (ZI) in CPS and methods of exploiting this novel discovery for the treatment of CPS. |
| US08396557B2 |
Extracranial monitoring of brain activity
Methods and systems for monitoring a subject's brain activity are provided. A method includes receiving EEG signals from the subject using a plurality of EEG electrodes positioned extracranially; and recording EEG signals using a recording circuit coupled to said EEG electrodes and contained in an enclosure implanted beneath the subject's scalp and above the subject's caldarium. |
| US08396555B2 |
Apparatus for stimulating components in, on, or near the pudendal nerve or its branches to achieve selective physiologic responses
Apparatus to control physiological functions, including urinary track physiological functions are described. The apparatus includes an electrode(s) configured to be placed on or in a targeted component of a pudendal nerve and to stimulate the targeted pudendal nerve pudendal. The targeted component of the pudendal nerve includes a pudendal nerve urethral afferent, and afferent nerve fibers in the deep perineal nerve. The apparatus includes a controller coupled to the electrode to apply an electrical signal having an amplitude and a selected frequency chosen to stimulate the targeted component. The controller operates in a first mode to apply a first frequency without substantially changing the amplitude for achieving a first physiologic response and the controller operates in a second mode to apply a second frequency, different than the first frequency, for achieving a second physiologic response different than the first physiologic response. |
| US08396551B2 |
Systems and methods for optimizing ventricular pacing delays during atrial fibrillation
Techniques are provided for use by implantable medical devices for controlling ventricular pacing, particularly during atrial fibrillation. In one example, during a V sense test for use in optimizing ventricular pacing, the implantable device determines relative degrees of variation within antecedent and succedent intervals detected between ventricular events sensed on left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) sensing channels. Preferred or optimal ventricular pacing delays are then determined, in part, based on a comparison of the relative degrees of variation obtained during the V sense test. In another example, during RV and LV pace tests, the device distinguishes QRS complexes arising due to interventricular conduction from QRS complexes arising due to atrioventricular conduction from the atria, so as to permit the determination of correct paced interventricular conduction delays for the patient. The paced interventricular conduction delays are also used to optimize ventricular pacing. Biventricular and monoventricular pacing regimes are provided. |
| US08396550B2 |
Optimal cardiac pacing with Q learning
A cardiac pacemaker control system constituted of: a means for receiving input from a hemodynamic sensor; an adaptive control system in communication with the means for receiving input from the hemodynamic sensor; and an interface arranged to provide cardiac stimulation responsive to the adaptive control system; the adaptive control system comprising a learning module operative to converge to patient specific cardiac pacing stimulation timing using a machine learning scheme in cooperation with a probabilistic replacement scheme, the probabilistic replacement scheme arranged to replace inputs from the hemodynamic sensor with online calculated values. |
| US08396549B2 |
Papillary muscle stimulation
A method for pacing a left ventricle of a heart includes delivering a pacing pulse via a first electrode to activate a first papillary muscle and another pacing pulse via a second electrode to activate a second papillary muscle. |
| US08396548B2 |
Selective drug delivery in a lumen
Methods and systems are disclosed for selective drug or fluid delivery in a lumen through a coating or fluid delivery channels. One system includes an elongate catheter having a proximal end and a distal end with an axis therebetween, the catheter having a radially expandable balloon near the distal end and an energy delivery portion proximate the balloon for transmission of energy, a thermally changeable coating having a releasable drug coupled to the balloon, the thermally changeable coating being oriented to be urged against the body tissue when the expandable balloon expands and an energy source operatively coupled to the energy delivery portion configured to energize the energy delivery portion to heat and liquefy the thermally changeable coating to release the drug to the body tissue. |
| US08396547B2 |
Getter device for active systems for the transdermal release of drugs
A getter system (20) is provided for the sorption of organic molecules on the inside of active systems (30) for the transdermal release of drugs. The getter system is suitable to avoid the corrosion of electrical parts of these systems, caused by these organic molecules in the presence of water. |
| US08396545B2 |
Electrophysiological screens for cognitive modulators
Methods, apparatuses, and systems for analysis of electromagnetic activity of prefrontal cortex neurons in subjects are provided. The methods, apparatuses, and systems of the present invention can be used as a means to screen for cognitive modulators. They can be used to predict the effects of compounds such as psychostimulants and other drugs on prefrontal cortex-dependent cognition. |
| US08396544B2 |
Systems and methods for graphic display of ST-segment deviation
Systems and methods are provided for monitoring a patient and graphically representing ST-segment deviations. |
| US08396543B2 |
Storage of data for evaluation of lead integrity
In general, the disclosure describes techniques for storing data corresponding to sensed high-rate non-sustained episodes that occur close in time to detection of a lead integrity condition. A method comprises detecting a first high-rate non-sustained episode, activating a data storage operation for storing data associated with high rate non-sustained episodes in response to detecting the first episode, and storing data associated with the first episode in an episode log in response to activating the data storage operation. Another method comprises detecting a lead integrity condition, and activating a data storage operation for storing data associated with high rate non-sustained episodes in response to detecting the condition. |
| US08396542B2 |
Parameter value rejection for a cardiac monitor
A heart monitor is disclosed. The monitor computes ST segment deviations and stores the results in heart rate based histograms. Periodically, the monitor analyzes the histogram data to determine a median value of ST deviation. Subsequently, beats are excluded from the computation of the time series if their ST deviations both varies too far from the long term median value and varies too far from the then current time series value. |
| US08396539B2 |
Implantable medical device having optical fiber for sensing electrical activity
An implantable medical device for optically sensing action potential signals in excitable body tissue. The device includes an elongated tubular lead body carrying an optical fiber extending from a proximal lead end to a distal lead end to position the optical fiber at a target site. The lead body additionally carries a conduit for dispensing a voltage-sensitive fluorescent dye into tissue surrounding the target site. The optical fiber transmits excitation light to the fluorescent dye to cause the dye to fluoresce with varying intensity as the transmembrane potentials of local tissue cells vary due to passing depolarization wavefronts. The optical fiber transmits the fluorescence signal to the device to generate an action potential signal or fiducial points of an action potential signal for use in accurately measuring and characterizing electrical activity of excitable tissue. |
| US08396538B2 |
Method and apparatus for improving signal to noise ratio of ECG signals to facilitate cardiac beat detection
Improving the signal-to-noise ratio of electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements facilitates cardiac beat detection in a human or animal patient. ECG signals measured either on the surface of the skin or subcutaneously from pairs of leads may be combined to calculate a differential signal. The measured signal may also be averaged to produce a second estimate. A point-by-point product of the differential signal and the averaged signal is generated if the sample pair has the same polarity. The product signals feature enhanced signal components and reduced noise components, thus improving the signal-to-noise ratio of the to respective input channels. Product signals are then subjected to peak detection through a conventional auto-sensing approach. Preliminary event detection results from the conditional product signals may then be aggregated, and final sense markers for ECG beat detection may be generated by means of a voting algorithm. |
| US08396535B2 |
Integrated optical scanning image acquisition and display
An apparatus and method for providing image acquisition and/or image display in a limited region of interest (ROI). The apparatus comprises a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS), preferably integrating a light source, a cantilever, a lens, an actuator, a light detector, and a position sensor. The light source provides light for illuminating the ROI, displaying an image, providing a therapy, and/or performing other functions. The cantilever comprises a resin waveguide with a fixed end attached to a substrate that supports many or all other components. A free end of the cantilever is released from the substrate during fabrication and includes the lens. The actuator scans the free end in orthogonal directions to illuminate the ROI or display an image. The position sensors detect the position of the free end for control. The light detector receives light backscattered from the ROI separate from, or at the fixed end of the cantilever. |
| US08396534B2 |
Intravital-information imaging apparatus
An intravital-information imaging apparatus includes light sources for irradiating a living body with light, and acoustic-wave detectors that detect acoustic waves generated from a light absorber having absorbed part of energy of the light from the light sources, the light absorber existing in the living body. Furthermore, the intravital-information imaging apparatus includes signal processors that calculate information representing a distribution of optical characteristic values of the living body using sound pressures of the acoustic waves generated from the light absorber. |
| US08396532B2 |
MRI-guided devices and MRI-guided interventional systems that can track and generate dynamic visualizations of the devices in near real time
An MRI-guided medical device includes an elongated sheath, an elongated dilator, and an elongated needle. The sheath has a distal end, an opposite proximal end, and a central lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends. The sheath comprises MRI-compatible material and includes a tracking member located adjacent to the sheath distal end that is visible in an MRI image. The dilator comprises MRI-compatible material and is movably disposed within the sheath lumen. A distal end of the dilator is configured to extend outwardly from the sheath distal end and dilator includes at least one tracking member that is visible in an MRI image. The needle is movably disposed within the dilator lumen and is movable between stored and operative positions relative to the dilator. An RF shield may be coaxially disposed within the elongated sheath so as to surround a portion of the sheath central lumen. |
| US08396530B1 |
Method for biosensor usage with pressure compensation
A biosensor is described which can obtain physiological data from an individual. The biosensor may collect electrodermal activity, skin temperature, and other information. The biosensor may be attached to the body through the use of a garment which may be fastened in multiple locations on the human body. The biosensor includes compensation for electrodermal activity measurements based on the amount of pressure applied to the electrodes that are in contact with the skin. As pressure is increased the electrodermal activity values typically increase. By compensating for the influence that pressure changes have on electrodermal activity, more accurate analysis of physiology and therefore mental state analysis may be performed. |
| US08396529B2 |
Dry electrode device and method of assembly
An electrode set is disclosed that has two separable parts including an assembled base with printed circuit board basement, biasing member and top cover and an electrode. The basement and top cover may be made by metal or conductive material. |
| US08396528B2 |
Analyte sensor
Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system. |
| US08396526B2 |
Method for spectrophotometric blood oxygenation monitoring
According to the present invention, a method and apparatus for non-invasively determining the blood oxygen saturation level within a subject's tissue is provided. The method comprises the steps of: 1) providing a near infrared spectrophotometric sensor operable to transmit light along a plurality of wavelengths into the subject's tissue; 2) sensing the light transmitted into the subject's tissue using the sensor, and producing signal data representative of the light sensed from the subject's tissue; 3) processing the signal data to account for physical characteristics of the subject; and 4) determining the blood oxygen saturation level within the subject's tissue using a difference in attenuation between the wavelengths. The apparatus includes a sensor having a light source and at least one light detector, which sensor is operably connected to a processor. The sensor is operable to transmit light along a plurality of wavelengths into the subject's tissue, and produce signal data representative of the light sensed from the subject's tissue. The algorithm is operable to process the signal data to account for the physical characteristics of the subject being sensed. |
| US08396523B2 |
Superconducting radial motor
A motor and method of operating the motor are provided. The motor includes a plurality of cylinders arranged in a ring relative to one another and positioned at a non-zero angle relative to one another. Each cylinder includes a piston configured to move within the cylinder. Each cylinder further includes a high-temperature superconductor material in a superconducting state in the presence of an external magnetic field below a critical field strength, wherein the critical field strength is a function of the temperature of the superconductor material. Each cylinder further includes a permanent magnet mechanically coupled to the piston and configured to move within the cylinder and to have a magnetic field that interacts with the superconductor material. A sum of a non-zero time-invariant magnetic field strength and a time-varying magnetic field strength cycles between at least a first field strength below the critical field strength for the superconductor material and at least a second field strength above the critical field strength for the superconductor material, such that the superconductor material cycles between a superconducting state and a non-superconducting state. A time-varying force is applied to the magnet by an interaction of the magnet's magnetic field with the superconductor material. |
| US08396522B2 |
Superconducting motor
A motor and a method of operating the motor are provided. The motor includes a plurality of cylinders. Each cylinder includes a piston configured to move within the cylinder. Each cylinder further includes a high-temperature superconductor material at a temperature. The superconductor material is in a superconducting state in the presence of an external magnetic field below a critical field strength, wherein the critical field strength is a function of the temperature of the superconductor material. Each cylinder further includes a permanent magnet mechanically coupled to the piston and configured to move within the cylinder and to have a magnetic field that interacts with the superconductor material. A sum of a non-zero time-invariant magnetic field strength and a time-varying magnetic field strength cycles between at least a first field strength below the critical field strength for the superconductor material at the temperature and at least a second field strength above the critical field strength for the superconductor material at the temperature, such that the superconductor material cycles between a superconducting state and a non-superconducting state. A time-varying force is applied to the magnet by an interaction of the magnet's magnetic field with the superconductor material. |
| US08396520B2 |
Portable terminal having a slide module with a tilting unit
A portable terminal including a first body, a second body having a manipulation portion formed on one surface thereof, the second body being slidably connected to the first body such that the first body is moveable between a closed configuration covering the manipulation portion and an open configuration exposing the manipulation portion, and a slide module connecting the first body to the second body. The slide module includes a tilting unit configured to tilt the first body with respect to the second body at a predetermined angle in the open configuration and a slide member configured to slidably connect the first and second bodies to each other. The slide module imparts a first motion to the first body during movement across a first region of the second body and imparts a second motion different from the first motion to the first body during movement across a second region of the second body. The second motion includes a tilting motion of the first body with respect to the second body. |
| US08396518B2 |
Mobile communication terminal and controlling method thereof
A mobile communication terminal and a controlling method thereof are disclosed, by which reception performance of the mobile communication terminal can be enhanced while SAR is reduced. According to an embodiment, the terminal includes a body part comprising a circuit board having radio communication parts mounted thereon and a display to output images of prescribed information; a grounded part for selectively grounding at least one of the circuit board and the display; and a ground controlling part configured to enable at least one of the circuit board and the display to be selectively connected to the grounded part for grounding. |
| US08396516B2 |
Single-antenna vehicle transponder with a power-save function
Embodiments of the present invention relates to a vehicle transponder comprising an active radio unit, an antenna, a wake-up unit and a power directing means which has a first port, a second port and a third port, where the power directing means is arranged to direct power from the first port to the second port and/or the third port. The antenna is connected to the first port and the second port is connected to the radio unit. Furthermore, the third port is connected both to a power detection port at the radio unit and to the wake-up unit, such that during a first mode of operation, a part of a signal that is transmitted from the radio unit to the antenna is coupled from the second port to the third port and further fed to the power detection port. |
| US08396515B2 |
Dynamic battery capacity allocation for data retention among mobile computers and electronic devices
Systems devices and/or methods that facilitate dynamic battery capacity allocation are presented. Extended use times or smaller form factors can be achieved for devices employing dynamic battery capacity allocation. By determining factors that can include the type of memory, the usage of the memory, and/or the user's preference to continue to use a device rather than retain data in a volatile memory for a period of time before supplying alternative power, the device can be available for use for longer periods of time on a battery or a smaller battery can be used to achieve similar use time. |
| US08396514B2 |
Systems and methods for presenting an image on a display of a mobile device
The described embodiments relate generally to methods, systems and handheld electronic communications devices for selecting and displaying a caller ID image from an image database configured to respond to user input and selectively display images on a display. The image database stores at least one tag identifier data corresponding to each image. An address book database stores at least one individual identifier and at least one corresponding address. A caller ID image corresponding to at least one caller ID is selected from the images and displayed on the display. |
| US08396511B2 |
Apparatus and method for determining an uplink transmission format in a broadband wireless communication system
An apparatus and method in a broadband wireless communication system are provided. The apparatus includes a Base Station (BS) which includes a manager for increasing a set point associated with a Mobile Station (MS) if an error is detected in a burst received from the MS, a detector for incrementing a counter associated with the MS if a difference, between a maximum Transmission (Tx) power of the MS and a Tx power used by the MS when transmitting the burst in which the error was detected, is less than a difference threshold, and a determining unit for providing control such that a number of slots allocated to the MS decreases if the counter associated with the MS is greater than a counter threshold. |
| US08396510B1 |
Method and system for establishing communication services
Generally described, a method and system are provided for establishing a communication service. Upon detecting the insertion of a card into a wireless transceiver, a control system retrieves information from the card. The control system processes the information and selects communication service software for the card and communication service data for a communication network. The communication service software is transferred to the card and the communication service data is transferred to the communication network. The communication service software is installed on the card and one or more network elements in the communication network are provisioned. |
| US08396509B2 |
Signal transmission path selection circuit and method, and electronic device employing the circuit
An electronic device includes a central processing unit, a USB connector, a USB switch, and an audio path selector. The USB switch has a data transmission path and an audio signal transmission path for signal transmission between the central processing unit and the USB connector. The USB switch selects the data transmission path for data transmission according to a first selection signal from the central processing unit, and selects the audio signal transmission path for audio signal transmission according to a second selection signal from the central processing unit. The audio path selector interconnects the central processing unit and the USB switch, and has a first audio path for output of audio signals from the central processing unit to the audio signal transmission path, and a second audio path for output of audio signals from the audio signal transmission path to the central processing unit. |
| US08396508B2 |
Method and system for a mobile receiver architecture for European band cellular and broadcasting
In a video processing system, a method and system for a mobile receiver architecture for European (EU) Band cellular and broadcasting are provided. Receive channels may be processed in at least one radio frequency front end (RFFE) in a mobile terminal and may comprise at least one of a VHF/UHF broadcast channel and EU band cellular channels capable of carrying voice and data. The cellular channels may be WCDMA 2100 MHz, GSM 1800 or 900 MHz. A single cellular/broadcast radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) may be utilized for processing the receive channels. In another embodiment, a cellular band RFIC may process the EU band cellular channels and a broadcast RFIC may process the broadcast channel. Moreover, a first RFIC may process the WCDMA channel, a second RFIC may process the GSM channels, and a broadcast RFIC may process the broadcast channel. |
| US08396507B2 |
System and method for indicating expected communication speed in a wireless communication device
A wireless communication network includes a number of users communicating via wireless communication devices. The network determines a current condition of the network, including factors such as the number of users coupled to a particular portion of the wireless communication network. The current conditions are used to access data in a data storage structure to determine an expected communication speed based on the current network conditions. The expected communication speed for each wireless communication device is transmitted to the wireless communication device and shown on the display. The display of expected communication speed may take various forms, such as a numeric display, graphical display, color display, or an alphabetic display. The network dynamically monitors changes in the current conditions and recalculates the expected communication speed as appropriate. |
| US08396506B2 |
System and method for performance enhancement in heterogeneous wireless access networks
A system and method for dynamically optimizing the transmission power levels for downlink voice and data signal transmitted from a base station to user equipment is disclosed. The user equipment measures the strength and quality of the downlink signal, and transmits this downlink signal information to a control unit. The control unit analyzes the downlink information and employs an adaptive self-learning traffic algorithm which determines optimized power levels for the downlink signals. The control unit may optimize only one carrier signal or a subset of the multi-carrier signals in a preferred embodiment. The values of the optimized power levels are sent to the base station which then increases or decreases the downlink transmission power of one or more carrier signals based on this level. As a result, the area associated with dead spots is reduced and the quality of the downlink signals is enhanced. |
| US08396504B2 |
Mobile terminal device and control method for saving electric power of mobile terminal device
A mobile terminal device communicates with a base station in one of a power-saving state in which consumption of power supplied from a built-in power supply is suppressed and a normal state in which the consumption of power supplied from the built-in power supply is not suppressed. The mobile terminal device includes a base station detecting unit that detects a maximum-power received-wave base station of which a received-wave power is maximum, a base-station-change detecting unit that detects whether the maximum-power received-wave base station detected by the base station detecting unit is changed, and a power-saving-state transition control unit that controls transition to the power-saving state when the change of the maximum-power received-wave base station is not detected by the base-station-change detecting unit in a predetermined time in the normal state. |
| US08396502B2 |
Power controlling method and corresponding base station
A power controlling method and corresponding base station for controlling the transmission power of each user terminal are disclosed, in which, each user terminal is paired into virtual MIMO transmission. In the solution, first, determining the transmission power of each user terminal that makes the sum of the transmission power of each user terminal minimum under the case that the specific index for each user terminal meets a required threshold value; then, feed backing the determined transmission power of each user terminal to each user terminal. Compared with the prior art, the solution can achieve a preferable power efficiency. |
| US08396501B2 |
Method and device for group call initiation
Upon a user's command, a communication device accesses a call list having a plurality identifiers and receives a user's selection of a talkgroup identifier from the call list. The communication device switches to a first channel associated with the selected talkgroup identifier to allow a call on the first channel. When the call ends, the communication device sets a first timer and monitors the first channel for voice activity, and if voice activity is detected, continues the call on the first channel. When the first timer expires and no voice activity is detected, the communication device sets a second timer and scans a home channel for voice activity; and if no voice activity is detected, the communication device continues to monitor the first channel until the second timer expires or voice activity is detected on the home channel, then it automatically switches to the home channel. |
| US08396495B2 |
Method and system of charging for short message value-added service, data center for short message service
The present invention relates to the short message VAS field and discloses a method and a system for charging for short message VAS, and a data center for SMS. The method includes: obtaining a short message that carries VAS subscription information; resolving the VAS to be triggered according to the short message that carries the VAS subscription information, and generating a charging message; and sending the charging message to an intelligent network for charging. The system includes: an SMSC, a data center for SMS, and an intelligent network. The data center for SMS includes: a short message receiving module, a charging message generating module, and a charging message sending module. Through the technical solution under the present invention, the PPS user is refunded for the services triggered unsuccessfully, and the service process is simplified. |
| US08396492B2 |
Method for a user equipment performing frequency-layer operations in multimedia broadcast/multicast services
A method for a User Equipment (UE) performing frequency-layer operations in Multimedia Broadcast and Multicast Services (MBMSs) is disclosed, with priorities preset for various frequency-layer operations, the procedure of performing frequency-layer operations includes the steps of: receiving control information of the MBMSs sent from the network; and performing the frequency-layer operations of the activated MBMSs included in the control information of the MBMSs according to the priorities of frequency-layer operations. By using the method in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to avoid wrong frequency-layer operations under the circumstances of a UE joining multiple MBMSs, thus achieving the highest procedural efficiency with the least consumption and improving the efficiency of the UE. |
| US08396487B2 |
Location acquiring system and location information acquiring method
There are provided a location acquiring system that allows acquiring of location information that keeps track of the movement of a mobile communication terminal to be searched for, with the transmission and reception of signals for acquiring the location information being suppressed, and a location information acquiring method. A session establishment unit 124 of an application unit 12 in a management server 10 establishes a session between a location acquiring request terminal 20 and a to-be-searched terminal 30 for continuously transmitting the location information of the to-be-searched terminal 30 to the location acquiring request terminal 20, when an information transmission and reception unit 11 receives location information acquiring request information for making a request of acquiring location information of the to-be-searched terminal 30 from the location acquiring request terminal 20. |
| US08396484B2 |
Methods and apparatus for providing location data with variable validity and quality
Methods, systems and computer program products for determining a location of a device based on location information are described. In some implementations, location assist information may be requested so as to determine a location of sufficient quality to satisfy a requesting application. Upon receiving the location assist information, empherides from one or more visible sources may be requested. The location assist information may be used to determine the location of the device until the device has received and decoded the empherides. |
| US08396482B1 |
Location of a mobile station in a telecommunication system
Means and a method for determination of a distance between a transmitting station and a receiving station is disclosed. In the method a characteristic parameter is determined for the radio propagation environment of the receiving station. At least one feature of a signal that has been received at the receiving station is measured, said feature being such that it can be used for the determination of the distance between the stations. The distance is then computed based on said measured signal feature and the characteristic parameter. |
| US08396480B2 |
Load sharing in multi-access systems
In a multi-access system, an access selection principle is achieved by selecting a signal strength threshold level based on a determined load level (ULOCAL) in a first access network. A new user in an area commonly covered by more than one access network attempts to allocate to the first access network if an experienced signal strength exceeds the signal strength threshold level. Communication utility can preferably be maximised or at least be taken into account by using suitable load level dependencies. By increasing the threshold when the load level approaches the capacity limit, a completely filled first access network is avoided. This gives an opportunity to let particularly well-suited users still have access to the first access network. At the same time, since the preferred access is decided before the actual access attempt, control signalling can be significantly reduced, even at very high traffic loads. |
| US08396478B2 |
First base station managing a neighboring condition and cell area operation of a cell area, and system for managing a neighboring condition and cell area operation of a cell area
The present invention concerns a first base station managing a neighboring condition and cell area operation of a cell area, the cell area being a cell area of a wireless cellular network, the wireless cellular network comprising a telecommunication network enabling a transfer of information between the first base station and a second base station, where the wireless cellular network comprises a server linked to the telecommunication network. |
| US08396476B2 |
Method for mobility management in a system architecture supporting mobility between different access systems
A method for Mobility Management MM in a system architecture supporting mobility between different access systems having separate Core Network CN-level MM entities while using common MM Area is provided. When a User Equipment UE leaves the coverage of a first access system where it is in a Non Radio Connected state as seen from Radio Access Network RAN, but seen in Connected State from CN-level MM entity, for the coverage of a second access system where it is in Idle state as seen from CN-level MM entity, the UE is put into Idle state as seen from CN-level MM entity of said first access system. |
| US08396472B2 |
Providing multiple data streams by different networks for the same content
Providing multiple data streams by different networks for the same content is disclosed. First and second data streams over respective first and second networks are provided. The first and second data streams carry the same content and are delivered using different radio access technologies (RATs) by the first and second networks. The data streams may be provided such that they are synchronized and received by a user equipment simultaneously. |
| US08396470B2 |
Predicting user availability from aggregated signal strength data
A system and method for determining the availability of a mobile communications device on a network based on a prediction that the device will cross a peer-defined service boundary. The service boundary may be the periphery of a region in which the received signal strength is stronger than a minimum value, or the periphery of a region in which a particular service provider's signal is dominant. When the device is about to cross the service boundary, or has crossed the boundary, a notification of a change in service is issued to at least one of the user of the device, a presence service, or another network operator. The notification may comprise a change in the presence status of the mobile communications device. The service boundary is defined using aggregated data from a plurality of mobile communications devices reporting the received signal strength at various geographic locations. |
| US08396469B2 |
Association of a mobile user identifier and a radio identifier of a mobile phone
A method of associating a mobile user identifier identifying a mobile interface of a mobile phone and a radio identifier identifying a radio interface of the mobile phone includes: at a device configured to communicate with the radio interface, detecting that the mobile phone is located within a coverage area of the device, thus recovering the radio identifier; establishing a radio connection between device and mobile phone; transmitting to the mobile phone through the radio connection a command to access a mobile service for transmitting to an association server a message including the radio identifier; at the mobile phone, transmitting the message to the association server through the mobile service; and at the association server, retrieving the mobile user identifier through the mobile service and reading the radio identifier from the message, thereby associating the mobile user identifier and the radio identifier. |
| US08396465B2 |
Virtual instance architecture for mobile device management systems
System and method for remotely managing mobile devices. A virtual instance mobile device is maintained for each physical mobile device to be managed. Each virtual instance mobile device is executable in a computer runtime environment and includes a hardware emulation component configured to emulate the hardware components of the corresponding physical mobile device and a software emulation component corresponding to the software components of the physical mobile device, which is executable within the context of the hardware emulation component. Synchronization between the virtual instance mobile devices and their corresponding physical mobile devices is maintained, and data obtained from the physical mobile devices is stored. The physical mobile devices are remotely managed by utilizing their corresponding virtual instance mobile devices respectively. |
| US08396461B2 |
User initiated invite for automatic conference participation by invitee
A mobile device, system, and method are directed towards enabling a user, virtually on the fly, to invite another user to participate in an on-line conferencing session, by providing a link that automatically enables the other user to participate in the conferencing session. In one embodiment, the conferencing session is a text messaging conference session, such as one that might employ instant messaging, or the like. In one embodiment, a user may request a conferencing session to be established, by sending a request to a server device. The request may, include an identifier of an invitee with whom the first user wishes to communicate. The server determines a unique link for the invitee and session, and sends the invitee an invite message with their unique link. Selecting the unique link enables the invitee to automatically access and to participate in the conferencing session with the first user. |
| US08396457B2 |
Portable communication apparatus and method of controlling the same
A portable communication apparatus and a method of controlling the portable communication apparatus are disclosed. The method comprises, in response to a triggering event, detecting electronic devices within a detection range of the portable communication apparatus and, for each detected electronic device, performing a look-up operation in a database of electronic devices and users thereof for determining a user of the electronic device. A corresponding computer program product and a corresponding computer-readable medium are also disclosed. |
| US08396455B2 |
Systems and methods for sorting alert and offer messages on a mobile device
A method and system are presented for sorting alert and offer messages on a mobile device. One embodiment of the invention is directed to a method including receiving alert messages at a mobile device where each alert message contains transaction data associated with a transaction conducted with a merchant. Upon receiving the alert messages, the mobile device receives alert message sorting criteria from a user associated with the mobile device, sorts the alert messages according to the received offer sorting criteria, and displays the sorted alert messages. |
| US08396450B2 |
Mobile device notification with options
Notifying users of mobile communication devices, which may include providing options for response to notifications. A component of a communication service provider system receives an indication of a notification for a user of a mobile communication device. The notification may be received from a source internal or external to the communication service provider system. A component of the mobile communication service provider formats the notification so that it is compatible with the mobile communication device of the user and sends the notification to the mobile communication device of the user. The notification may include one or more options to respond to the notification using the mobile communication device. The notification may, for example, pertain to minutes-of-use in a mobile communication service plan, or to other information, including notifications from outside service providers such as airlines, banks, restaurants, hotels, libraries, credit card companies, etc. |
| US08396448B2 |
Broadcast information notification method and network node
A broadcast information notification method according to the present invention includes: starting to repeatedly transmit, at a network node, a broadcast message irrespective of transmission timing of a paging message, when the network node is instructed to notify a mobile station of the broadcast information; receiving, at the mobile station, a broadcast message reception parameter by using a parameter specified by the paging message transmitted by the network node at a predetermined timing; receiving, at the mobile station, a receivable broadcast message by using the received broadcast message reception parameter; and performing, at the mobile station, processing corresponding to the broadcast information. |
| US08396445B2 |
Method to implement E911 services in IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem)
A system and method that facilitates processing and/or routing of emergency call in an IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) for VoIP (Voice over IP) subscribers is provided. Specifically, an E911 profile is generated, for example, by an application server, for each VoIP subscriber based in part on current location information associated with the subscriber, such as, the subscriber's IP address. The E911 profile is pushed to the HSS (Home Subscriber Server) of the IMS. The E911 profile can then be stored in the HSS and can be queried by an E-CSCF (Emergency Call Session Control Function) during emergency call processing. Moreover, when an emergency call is received from the subscriber, the E-CSCF can retrieve the E911 profile associated with the subscriber from the HSS and route the call to an appropriate PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point) based on an analysis of the information in the E911 profile. |
| US08396444B2 |
Method and system of PSAP call back of in subscriber
A method and system for re-establishing a connection from a PSAP or 911 call center to a terminal of a 911 caller who has subscribed to IN services, for example, after a terminal of a 911 caller has been disconnected from the PSAP or 911 call center. If the call is dropped, the PSAP or 911 call center can, manually, or automatically via the system of the present invention, dial or cause to be dialed, a pre-determined prefix prior to dialing the number of the terminal of the 911 caller. In a separate embodiment of the method and system of the present invention, a separate parameter is used in CAMEL IDP and ISUP IAM to indicate the calling party category to identify that the call is originating from a PSAP or 911 call center. |
| US08396443B2 |
Power supply circuit and receiving apparatus
A power supply circuit includes: a DC-to-DC converter outputting a first voltage dropped from an input supply voltage; and a series regulator outputting a second voltage dropped from an output of the DC-to-DC converter, the series regulator including: an output transistor supplied with the output of the DC-to-DC converter and outputting the second voltage, and a first control circuit operated by the input supply voltage and controlling the output transistor. |
| US08396440B2 |
Signal reception method and apparatus for non-stationary channels
A signal reception method includes receiving a signal over a channel, producing a first equalized signal, a first interference suppression filter and a first estimate of the channel using a portion of a the received signal, dividing the received signal into a plurality of signal blocks, and for each one of the plurality of signal blocks, producing a second equalized signal using a portion of the first equalized signal by selecting from one of a linear estimator or a non-linear estimator and estimating symbols received in the one of the plurality of signal blocks based on the second equalized signal. |
| US08396435B2 |
Adder, and power combiner, quadrature modulator, quadrature demodulator, power amplifier, transmitter and wireless communicator using same
To provide an adder capable of obtaining an addition signal of a plurality of high frequency signals, and also a power combiner, a quadrature modulator, a quadrature demodulator, a power amplifier, a transmitter, and a wireless communicator, each of which uses the adder. Impedances (Zg, Zh) seen from a common output point (P3) of a plurality of first impedance circuits (110a, 110b) toward respective input terminals (102a, 102b) are set so that high frequency currents (Ig, Ih) are approximately zero. An impedance (Zs) seen from a first connection point (P1) toward the input terminals (102a, 102b) is set so that a high frequency current (Is) is approximately zero. An impedance (Zc) seen from the first connection point (P1) toward a circuit (150) is set so that a high frequency current (Ic) is approximately zero. An impedance (Zm) seen from a second connection point (P2) toward a power supply is set so that a high frequency current (Im) is approximately zero. |
| US08396429B2 |
Communication test device and communication test method
A communication test device can assist in identifying a cause of a change in throughput of a mobile communication terminal. The communication test device accumulates (a) trace data on a specific unit of data complying with a designated communication standard, and (b) throughput data on throughput of the specific unit of data transmitted to and received from a mobile communication terminal. Trace data and throughput data are extracted from the accumulation, and trace data is displayed. A graph of the variation of throughput with time is displayed on the display unit. Trace data corresponding to a time designated by an operating unit can also be displayed. |
| US08396428B2 |
System and method for thermal management of a transceiver
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a system comprising a transceiver, a sensor and a controller is provided. The sensor is coupled to an electrical component in the transceiver and is configured to measure a thermal load on the electrical component. The controller is configured with a predetermined threshold(s), and is configured to reduce the voltage and/or current bias point, in the power amplifier, in response to the thermal load measurement being greater than the predetermined hot threshold or less than a predetermined cold threshold. The system provides an inexpensive transceiver system solution to the problems of shedding thermal load under high temperatures and undesirable gain increases, loss of stability and power consumption increases at low temperatures, and can be incorporated into new systems or adapted to legacy systems. |
| US08396425B2 |
Semiconductor device
In a multi-core semiconductor device, a data bus between CPUs or the like consumes a larger amount of power. By provision of a plurality of CPUs which transmit data by a backscattering method of a wireless signal, a router circuit which mediates data transmission and reception between the CPUs or the like, and a thread control circuit which has a thread scheduling function, a semiconductor device which consumes less power and has high arithmetic performance can be provided at low cost. |
| US08396423B2 |
Wireless communications system providing wireless message data delivery through intermediary wireless communications device and related methods
A wireless communications system may include a plurality of wireless communications devices (WCDs). A source WCD from among the plurality of WCDs may be configured to designate message data for at least one target WCD from among the plurality of WCDs, where the message data has a security restriction associated therewith. At least one intermediary WCD from among the plurality of WCDs may be configured to wirelessly receive the message data from the source WCD when in proximity thereto, and with restricted access to the message data based upon the security restriction. The at least one target WCD may be configured to wirelessly receive the message data from the at least one intermediary WCD when in proximity thereto and with less access restriction to the message data than the at least one intermediary WCD. |
| US08396422B2 |
Communication control device, method of determining communication control device, and storage medium for performing the method
A device and method for controlling communication among a plurality of communication devices, the device and method including causing each of one or more candidate devices to which control rights of a network are transferable, from among the plurality of communication devices, to transmit a pseudo information signal, counting, for each of the one or more candidate devices, the number of communication devices from the plurality of communication devices having responded to the pseudo information signal, and determining a candidate device to which to transfer control rights of the network based on the number of communication devices from the plurality of communication devices having responded to the pseudo information signal. |
| US08396416B2 |
Radio system and a method for relaying radio signals
The present invention provides a radio system and a method for relaying radio signals. The radio system and the method provide a calibration of transmit radio signals in which no dedicated calibration signal generator is required for calibrating the radio system. The radio system comprises at least one transmit path, a calibration unit at the least one link. A coupled transmit signal is extracted from the transmit paths and selectively forwarded as a feedback signal to a feedback signal demodulator. The feedback signal demodulator generates a base band feedback signal adapted for updating phase and amplitude changes applied a calibrated payload signal. |
| US08396413B2 |
Providing a virtual local channel in a satellite broadcast system
In one embodiment, a receiver for providing a virtual local channel in a broadcast radio system that transmits a plurality of sets of local content corresponding to a plurality of different geographic regions is disclosed. The receiver includes a detector (e.g., 432), adapted to determine a regional identifier for the receiver. The receiver also includes a channel selector (e.g., 412), adapted to obtain a selected set of local content from among the plurality of sets of local content, based on the determined regional identifier, for inclusion in the virtual local channel. The determined regional identifier identifies the geographic region associated with the selected set of local content. |
| US08396410B2 |
Bookbinding system and bookbinding apparatus
A bookbinding system includes an image forming apparatus and a bookbinding apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus. The bookbinding system includes an image forming unit to form an image on a recording sheet; a loading unit to load, as a bookblock stack, plural recording sheets on which images are formed; a bonding unit to form a booklet by bonding a cover with the bookblock stack; a setting unit to set a bookblock size, a cover size, and a finishing size; a cutting unit to cut the booklet bonded together with the cover into the finishing size; a stack thickness detection unit to detect a thickness of the bookblock stack; and a bookbinding permission/inhibition determination unit to determine permission/inhibition of a bookbinding operation based on a stack thickness detection result as well as the bookblock size, the cover size, and the finishing size set by the setting unit. |
| US08396406B2 |
Apparatuses useful in printing and methods of fixing marking materials on media
Apparatuses useful in printing and methods of fixing marking materials on media in apparatuses useful in printing are provided. An exemplary embodiment of the apparatuses useful in printing includes a first fixing device disposed along a first media path. The first fixing device includes a first fixing member including a first surface and a second fixing member including a second surface which forms a first nip with the first surface. The first fixing device does not include a thermal energy source that actively heats the first surface or the second surface and the first fixing device is adapted to apply pressure to a medium received at the first nip. A second fixing device is disposed along a second media path. The second fixing device includes at least one thermal energy source adapted to supply thermal energy to actively heat the medium at the second fixing device. A controller is configured to selectively route the medium to the first fixing device or to the second fixing device. |
| US08396405B2 |
Transfer belt lateral position control apparatus and method
According to aspects described herein, there is disclosed an apparatus and method for controlling a position of a belt in a printing system. The apparatus including a roller assembly for engaging at least a portion of the belt. The roller assembly extending laterally across the belt. The apparatus including a pair of laterally spaced support arms each rotatably supporting opposed ends of the roller assembly. Each support arm being pivotally coupled to the printing system for movement about a pivot axis extending substantially in the lateral direction. The apparatus also including a pair of actuating assemblies each configured to pivot a different one of the support arms about the pivot axis. The pivotal movement of each of the pair of support arms by the respective actuating assemblies being independent of the other. |
| US08396403B2 |
Toner roller with an insulation layer comprising polymer
In a toner roller for use in a developer station for a printer or copier, a roller-shaped base body has an electrically conductive surface on which is arranged an insulation layer. The insulation layer comprises plastic and has a layer thickness and arranged between 150 μm and 1000 μm. The insulation layer also comprises a filler where the filler comprises electrically conductive additives. |
| US08396402B2 |
Conductive roller
The present invention provides a conductive roller having a toner transport part composed of a vulcanized rubber composition at least on an outermost layer thereof. The vulcanized rubber composition contains a rubber component (A), highly conductive carbon black (B) having a particle diameter not less than 18 nm and less than 80 nm, an inorganic filler (C) consisting of not less than one kind of a metal oxide selected from among a group of titanium oxide, alumina, and silica. A total of a content of the highly conductive carbon black (B) and a content of the inorganic filler (C) for 100 parts by mass of the rubber component (A) is not less than 10 parts by mass nor more than 60 parts by mass. |
| US08396400B2 |
Method of implementing a magnetically actuated flap seal
A method for removing carrier buildup in a slotted scavenger electrode in a printer comprising magnetically attracting the carrier toward the slot, blocking the slot with a movable flap for preventing toner dust from traveling through the slot, opening the movable flap for allowing the carrier to travel through the slot and return to the developer station, then reclosing the movable flap. |
| US08396399B2 |
Toner bearing member, developing device, image forming apparatus, and image forming method
A toner bearing member is provided which includes a conductive support, an insulation layer provided on the conductive support, multiple electrodes arranged at regular intervals on the insulation layer, a surface layer covering the multiple electrodes, comprising a polymerized compound having a specific unit, and a voltage applicator that applies a voltage between the conductive support and the multiple electrodes while periodically reversing an electric field generated therebetween. |
| US08396398B2 |
Method and toner bottle for image forming apparatus capable of effectively supplying toner to image forming apparatus
The toner bottle exchangeably used in an image forming apparatus. The toner bottle includes a bottle body having a substantially cylindrical shape and configured to contain toner, a gear configured to rotate a part of the toner bottle, a cap attached to the bottle body and including an opening arranged in a circumferential surface of the cap and configured to output toner to a development apparatus of the image forming apparatus, a toner conveyance mechanism arranged in the bottle body and configured to convey the toner to the opening. |
| US08396396B2 |
Image forming apparatus, and developing device and developing unit thereof
An image forming apparatus includes developing units designed to have an appropriate developer storage capacity in consideration of developer consumption, and improved convenience of use. The image forming apparatus also includes an image carrier, and plural developing units arranged along a rotating direction of the image carrier to supply developers to the image carrier. The plural developing units include a first developing unit having the largest developer storage capacity and a second developing unit having the second largest developer storage capacity after the first developing unit. |
| US08396391B2 |
Electrophotographic color image forming apparatus
A color image forming apparatus for forming a color image on a sheet includes a plurality of cartridge mounting portions for demountably mounting a cartridge each of which includes a developing roller for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on a photosensitive drum into a developed image and a developer accommodating portion for accommodating a developer to be used for development of the electrostatic latent image; a single intermediary transfer member which is provided opposed to the drums and onto which the developed images are transferred from the drums; an image forming unit containing the cartridge mounting portions and the intermediary transfer member and movable between a first position for transferring, onto the sheet, the developed images transferred onto the intermediary transfer member from the drums and a second position for permitting mounting and demounting of the cartridges relative to the cartridge mounting portion; an opening for permitting mounting and demounting of the cartridges relative to the cartridge mounting portions of the unit taking the a second position; and an opening-closing member movable between a closing position for closing the opening and an open position for opening the opening, wherein when the unit takes the first position, the cartridges take attitudes in which the developer is supplied to the developing roller by the weight thereof, and when the unit takes the a second position, the cartridges take attitudes in which the developer is not supplied to the developing roller by the weight thereof. |
| US08396383B2 |
Image forming apparatus and process cartridge
An image forming apparatus including an image carrier; a charger to charge a surface of the image carrier; an irradiating device to form a latent image; a developing device to form a toner image; a transfer device to transfer the toner image onto a recording medium; a cleaning device to remove residual toner from the surface of the image carrier; a temperature and humidity detector to measure temperature and humidity within the image forming apparatus; a stop time clock to measure a period of time for which the image carrier is not driven; a removal unit to remove discharge products adhering to the surface of the image carrier; and a control unit to drive the removal unit to remove the discharge products for a period of time determined by the control unit based on measurements obtained by the temperature and humidity detector and the stop time clock. |
| US08396382B2 |
Image forming apparatus including a blower member and a heating device
An image forming apparatus includes: a heating device that heats images that have been formed on a sheet-like recording medium to thereby fix the images to the recording medium; an ejection member that rotates in a forward direction and ejects to the outside the recording medium that has been conveyed from the heating device; a blower member that blows air onto the recording medium conveyed between the heating device and the ejection member; and a controller that controls the blower member such that the blower member operates when a recording page count where images are continuously formed on the recording medium is equal to or greater than a predetermined recording page count. |
| US08396381B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for applying respective EP engine settings to different zones within a page of media
Generally, an imaging device is capable of applying respective EP engine settings to different zones within a page of media. In an example embodiment, a method includes printing in first and second zones on a page of media using first and second EP engine settings that are respectively associated with the first and second zones. The imaging device prints in the first zone on the page of media based on a first EP engine setting that is associated with the first zone. The imaging device switches from the first zone on the page of media to the second zone on the page of media responsive to a size indicator. The imaging device prints in the second zone on the page of media based on a second EP engine setting that is associated with the second zone. |
| US08396380B2 |
Electrophotographic image forming apparatus with removed-developer accommodating chamber for receiving developer cleaned from electrophotographic photosensitive drums
An electrophotographic image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording material, the apparatus includes a plurality of electrophotographic photosensitive drums; a cartridge which contains a developer and which is detachably mountable to a main assembly of the apparatus of the electrophotographic image forming apparatus in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the electrophotographic photosensitive drum; a cartridge mounting portion for mounting the cartridge; a plurality of cleaning members for removing the developers remaining on surfaces of the electrophotographic photosensitive drums; a removed-developer accommodating container for accommodating the developers removed by the cleaning members, the removed-developer accommodating container being detachably mountable to the main assembly of the apparatus in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, wherein the cartridges are disposed along a second direction, and the removed-developer accommodating container are adjacent to the cartridges and extends along the second direction so as to be overlapped at least partly with the cartridges as seen in the axial direction. |
| US08396378B2 |
Method of initializing information about consumable unit of image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus and host apparatus thereof
A method of initializing information about a consumable unit of an image forming apparatus, the method includes transmitting authentication information of the consumable unit to the outside, receiving initialization data of usage information about the consumable unit stored in the image forming apparatus, from the outside, and initializing the usage information about the consumable unit based on the received initialization data. |
| US08396376B2 |
Optical receiver circuit
In the case in which an input voltage to a comparator COMP reaches (½)×Vcc from initial Vcc in accordance with lowering of the electric potential at a nodal point N1, an output level of the comparator COMP is inverted to make the output level LOW. In the case in which the output level of the comparator COMP is made LOW, a switch for amplifying part SW3 is connected, and an optical receiver circuit 1 makes the shift to a half start-up state. A signal detector circuit SD as well is started up by the connection of the switch for amplifying part SW3. In the case in which an amplifying part 2 is started up, the signal detector circuit SD judges whether a transmission signal is included in an output from the amplifying part 2. In the case in which the signal detector circuit SD shows that a transmission signal is not included, the resetting switch SW2 is connected to reset a capacitor C1. |
| US08396373B2 |
Modulating retro-reflector optical communication using polarization differential signaling
A retroreflector coupled with a polarization rotator is provided according to some embodiments. The polarization rotator can be designed and/or configured to introduce a fraction of a wavelength phase difference in a received beam of light prior to reflecting the beam of light back toward the source of the light. By switching the state of the polarization rotator a communication signal can be modulated on the return beam of light. |
| US08396371B2 |
Orbital angular momentum in spatially multiplexed optical fiber communications
Multiple light beams are launched into a single optical fiber, each respective light beam with a corresponding signal. Each of the respective multi-beams are separated by launching each of the light at a different incidence angle and/or input position, into the optical fiber. In this way, each light beam is able to propagate independently according to its own trajectory inside the fiber. The resultant multi light beams propagate with respective counter cyclical orbital angular momentum with respective helical paths. |
| US08396370B2 |
Parallel optical transceiver module that utilizes a folded flex circuit that reduces the module footprint and improves heat dissipation
A parallel optical transceiver module is provided that uses a folded flex circuit arrangement that reduces the footprint of the transceiver module while also providing the module with improved heat dissipation characteristics. In addition, the manner in which components are mounted on the flex circuit facilitates assembly of the module, reducing the overall cost of the module while improving manufacturing yield. |
| US08396369B1 |
Method and system for propagating upstream cable modem signals and RF return video control signals over the same optical network
A method and system can propagate upstream cable modem signals and radio-frequency (RF) return video control signals over the same passive optical network (PON). The method and system can include various combinations of hardware and software to support this operation. Three exemplary embodiments of optical network terminals (ONT) of a DPON system improve performance of the system by ensuring that, in the event the upstream transmitters of two ONTs are turned on simultaneously, they will not interfere with each other. The system is designed such that in a situation of competing transmissions, the one which is received and processed by the head end out of two competing transmissions originating from a set top box and a cable modem, will be the one originating from the cable modem, which may use the DOCSIS cable modem protocol. |
| US08396366B2 |
Optical safety implementation in protection switching modules
Optical safety functions are incorporated into protection switching modules which maintain redundant pathways to avoid interruptions in optical network connections. The optical safety functions which lower optical power levels upon interruptions of optical connections are effectively combined with protection switching procedures which are also triggered by interruptions in optical network connections. The interoperation of protection and safety processes keep optical power levels below hazardous levels at system points which might be accessible to human operators. |
| US08396363B1 |
Tone hopped lock-in system
A lock-in ratio measurement system including a plurality of channels. Each of the channels generates and transmits a radiation signal modulated by a sequence of tones. The sequence of tones for each channel being unique in time to that respective channel. Each respective modulated signal is absorbed/reflected from a target or medium and received. Each channel computes a lock-in value based on the received modulation signal. The lock-in values are used to compute ratios between the channels for characterizing a target or medium. |
| US08396358B2 |
Optical device having an image-stabilizing insertable/removable optical element
An optical device includes an advancing/retracting member, an anti-shake frame supported by the advancing/retracting member, an insertable/removable frame which holds an image-stabilizing insertable/removable optical element and is rotatably supported by the anti-shake frame, a through-hole formed through the anti-shake frame to allow the insertable/removable frame to move between the insertion and removed positions, the through-hole including a circular arc groove about a rotational center of the insertable/removable frame and an outer end of the through-hole formed as an open end, and a bridge portion formed on the anti-shake frame to connect opposed inner walls of the through-hole at the outer end. The bridge portion is offset from the anti-shake frame and overlaps the clearance through-hole, as viewed in the optical axis direction. |
| US08396357B2 |
Optical unit with shake correction function, optical apparatus, and method of manufacturing optical unit with shake correction function
An optical unit with shake correcting function may include a movable module on which an optical element is mounted, a fixed body which supports the movable module, a shake detection sensor which detects a shake of the movable module, a shake correction magnetic drive mechanism which swings the movable module on the fixed body on a basis of a detection result of the shake detection sensor to correct the shake of the movable module, and a spring member which is connected with the fixed body and the movable module. A stopper mechanism may be structured between the movable module and the fixed body, and the stopper mechanism may moving ranges of the movable module due to the shake. |
| US08396356B2 |
Bathing installation heater assembly
An exemplary embodiment of a heater assembly includes a heater housing structure defining an elongated heater chamber having a first port and a second port and defining a wetted side on the interior of the heater chamber and a non-wetted side on the exterior of the heater chamber. A resistive heater element is has an active region disposed within the heater chamber, free of any brazed or welded bulkhead members. The housing structure includes a first heater terminal opening and a second heater terminal opening, a first terminal end of the heater element passed through the first terminal opening from the wetted side to the non-wetted side, and a second terminal end of the heater element passed through the second terminal opening from the wetted side to the non-wetted side. First and second seal members are disposed on the non-wetted side respectively onto the first terminal end and the second terminal end and in contact with respective first and second seal surfaces defined on the housing structure. First and second fastener members respectively engage the first terminal end and the second terminal end and the first and second seal members. The housing structure may be fabricated of plastic, with respective current collectors in the form of unitary wire forms disposed at opposite ends of the housing structure. |
| US08396353B2 |
Information recording medium, information recording method, information playback method, information recording apparatus, and information playback apparatus
To relatively simplify the apparatus arrangement while supporting many variations of streams to be processed, management information of a disc includes option support information that designates a combination of a base format and one or more options. An apparatus using this disc can specify predetermined types of decode formats on the basis of the contents of this option support information. |
| US08396352B2 |
Personal video recording with storage space distributed among remote personal video recorders
Automated personal video recording comprising scheduling a show for a user having allocated storage space on a personal video recorder (“PVR”), wherein the show has a storage space requirement that exceeds the user's free space, and the PVR is coupled for data communications to a storage space provider; and transmitting to the storage space provider an order to record the show through the storage space provider in storage space on a remote PVR that is coupled for data communications to the storage space provider. Receiving in a storage space provider from a personal video recorder (“PVR”) an order to record a show on a remote PVR, the order comprising an identification of a show and a schedule for recording the show; selecting a remote PVR; and recording the show, in dependence upon the show identification and the schedule for recording the show, in storage space on the selected remote PVR. |
| US08396347B2 |
Information recording method, information recording medium, and information reproducing method, wherein information is stored on a data recording portion and a management information recording portion
With this invention, at least one of a video file containing video information, a still picture file containing still picture information, and an audio file containing audio information and a management file having management information on a control method of reproducing the information in the file are recorded on an information storage medium. This realizes a data structure that causes the recording and deleting places on the information storage medium to correspond spuriously to places on a single tape, such as a VTR tape. Use of the data structure provides users with an easy-to-use interface. |
| US08396346B2 |
Information recording method, information recording medium, and information reproducing method, wherein information is stored on a data recording portion and a management information recording portion
With this invention, at least one of a video file containing video information, a still picture file containing still picture information, and an audio file containing audio information and a management file having management information on a control method of reproducing the information in the file are recorded on an information storage medium. This realizes a data structure that causes the recording and deleting places on the information storage medium to correspond spuriously to places on a single tape, such as a VTR tape. Use of the data structure provides users with an easy-to-use interface. |
| US08396345B2 |
AV information reproducing system and a reproducing method applied to the same system
In a system for reproducing AV information from a recording medium, such as a DVD, not only are usual titles reproduced, but also related information relevant to specific stream information is acquired easily by making use of resources on a computer network. In a reproducing system with the function of reproducing the title information recorded on a DVD and displaying it on the screen of a display section, when the user clicks a Web mark on the screen, the CPU links to a Web server on the Internet via a modem and accesses the Web page related to the stream information on the screen. At that time, the related Web page is the selected information conforming to parental information, or attribute information, set in the system. |
| US08396343B2 |
Data conversion method and data conversion device, data recording device, data playing device, and computer program
A data conversion method for an information processing device to execute format conversion processing from AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec high Definition) format to BDAV (Blu-ray Disc Audio Visual) format includes the steps of: performing data input for a data input unit to input AVCHD format data; and performing format conversion for a format converter to select a playback control information file included in the input AVCHD format data, perform format conversion, and generate playback control information according to BDAV format; wherein conversion processing is not performed for a stream file included in the input AVCHD format data, and BDAV format data made up of a converted playback control information file and non-converted stream file is generated. |
| US08396335B2 |
Solid-state memory and semiconductor device
A solid memory may include a recording layer including Ge, Sb and Te as major components. The recording layer may include a superlattice. The recording layer may include multi-layers each having a parent phase showing a phase transformation in solid-states, the phase transformation causing change in electrical property of the recording layer. The recording layer may include an Sb2Te3 layer that includes at least one period of a first lamination of a first Te-atomic layer, a first Sb-atomic layer, a second Te-atomic layer, a second Sb-atomic layer, and a third Te-atomic layer in these order, a GeTe layer that includes at least one period of a second lamination of a fourth Te-atomic layer and a Ge-atomic layer, and an Sb layer that includes a plurality of Sb-atomic layers. |
| US08396334B2 |
Optical waveguide device
An optical waveguide device having multiple functions or high performance, to improve the productivity of products, and to provide an optical waveguide device capable of suppressing deterioration of an operating characteristic of the optical waveguide device, including a thin plate 1 having a thickness of 20 μm or less and at least an optical waveguide 2 formed in the thin plate. The thin plate is bonded and fixed to a supporting substrate 5 with an adhesive 4 interposed therebetween, and a film having a higher refractive index than the thin plate and the adhesive is provided on a surface of the thin plate bonded and fixed to the supporting substrate so as to be in contact with at least a part of the optical waveguide. Preferably, the thin plate is formed of a material having a nonlinear optical effect or an electro-optical effect. |
| US08396325B1 |
Image enhancement through discrete patch optimization
An image processing system enhances the resolution of an original image using higher-resolution image data from other images. The image processing system defines a plurality of overlapping partitions for the original image, each partition defining a set of non-overlapping site patches. During an optimization phase, the system identifies, for site patches of the original images, label patches within related images that are of most relevance. During a rendering phase independent of the optimization phase, an output image with enhanced resolution is synthesized by substituting, for site patches of the original image, the identified relevant label patches from the related images. |
| US08396321B1 |
Method and apparatus for processing image data from a primary sensor and a secondary sensor
Systems and methods are provided for processing image data captured by a device. In one implementation, a system is provided to process primary image data based on motion of the device during generation of the image data, as detected by a secondary image sensor. In another implementation, a method is provided for processing image data by generating primary image data, generating secondary image data, calculating, using the secondary image data, at least one motion vector based on motion of the device during generation of the primary image data, processing the primary image data based on the at least one motion vector, and outputting the processed primary image data. |
| US08396320B2 |
Method and apparatus for determining the stray-light point-spread function of an imaging system
A method of determining the point-spread function (PSF) of an imaging system includes the steps of capturing image data, establishing an idealized source spot, establishing a functional form model, subtracting the captured image from the estimated image equation and determining a metric that measures the fit of the estimated image to the captured image. The functional form model may include both diffraction and aberration and stray light. The functional form model may be optimized to reduce the metric to an acceptable level. |
| US08396319B2 |
Separation and contrast enhancement of overlapping cast shadow components and target detection in shadow using polarization
Shadow is an inseparable aspect of all natural scenes. When there are multiple light sources or multiple reflections several different shadows may overlap at the same location and create complicated patterns. Shadows are a potentially good source of information about a scene if the shadow regions can be properly identified and segmented. However, shadow region identification and segmentation is a difficult task and improperly identified shadows often interfere with machine vision tasks like object recognition and tracking. A shadow separation and contrast enhancement method based on the polarization of light is provided. Polarization information of scenes is captured by a polarization-sensitive camera and the scenes are processed to effectively separate shadows from different light sources. |
| US08396318B2 |
Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program
An information processing apparatus includes: a first generating unit which generates, based on feature points detected on a cepstrum from an input image, a point-spread function that represents the degree of blurring generated in the input image; a second generating unit which generates a structure that represents an image obtained by reducing the input image with a size based on the point-spread function and enlarging this with the size, based on the point-spread function; and an updating unit which executes an updating process to update at least either the point-spread function or the structure such that the point-spread function and the structure approximate to a true value, with the updating unit repeatedly executing the updating process to set, of a structure component and a texture component making up the updated structure, the structure component as a new updated structure, and set the updated point-spread function as a new updated target. |
| US08396310B1 |
Basis learning for sparse image representation and classification and low data rate compression
A computerized method for transforming a signal representative of image information, the signal being a sparse signal, includes obtaining the signal. The method further includes using the signal to learn a dictionary of basis functions that represent at least part of the signal. The method further includes using the learned dictionary of basis functions to transform the signal. |
| US08396303B2 |
Method, apparatus and computer program product for providing pattern detection with unknown noise levels
An apparatus for providing pattern detection may include a processor. The processor may be configured to iteratively test different models and corresponding scales for each of the models. The models may be employed for modeling parameters corresponding to a visually detected data. The processor may be further configured to evaluate each of the models over a plurality of iterations based on a function evaluation of each of the models, select one of the models based on the function evaluation of the selected one of the models, and utilize the selected one of the models for fitting the data. |
| US08396297B2 |
Supervised edge detection using fractal signatures
Methods and systems to identify image pixels as edge pixels using fractal signatures associated with the image pixels. Fractal signatures may include one or more of a variety of fractal dimensions. A fractal dimension of a pixel may be generated from an array of pixels that include the pixel, from x and y coordinates and one or more of luminosity values and color values associated with pixels in the array of pixels. Pixels may be identified as edge pixels when their corresponding fractal signatures are equal to or greater than a fractal signature threshold. The fractal signature threshold may be generated in a supervised fashion. |
| US08396296B2 |
Brand image detection
A method comprises segmenting a foreground and a background of an image; and extracting one or more features from the foreground and the background to recognize a brand image. The features comprises one or more from a group comprising a foreground area, coordinates of a foreground centeroid, a foreground symmetry, a connected property, a spatial moment of the foreground, a normalized center moment of the foreground, a background area, variations of the background in red, green and blue color channels, a ratio of the foreground area and the background, an entropy of the image, an edge density of the image. |
| US08396295B2 |
Method and system for recognizing a handwritten character
The present invention discloses a method for recognizing a handwritten character, which includes the following steps of: obtaining a coarse classification template and a fine classification template; receiving a handwritten character input signal from a user, gathering a discrete coordinate sequence of trajectory points of the inputted character, and pre-processing the discrete coordinate sequence; extracting eigenvalues and calculating a multi-dimensional eigenvector of the inputted character; matching the inputted character with the coarse classification template to select a plurality of the most similar candidate character classes; and matching the eigen-transformed inputted character with sample centers of the candidate character classes selected from the fine classification template, and determining the most similar character classes among the candidate character classes. The present invention further discloses a system for recognizing a handwritten character. The present invention can recognize an inputted character fast at a high recognition precision. |
| US08396288B2 |
Information processing apparatus and information processing method for image verification
An information processing apparatus inputs image data and calculates a relative magnitude between coefficient or pixel values of the input image data. The image processing apparatus generates verification data of the image data using the calculated relative magnitude. |
| US08396286B1 |
Learning concepts for video annotation
A concept learning module trains video classifiers associated with a stored set of concepts derived from textual metadata of a plurality of videos, the training based on features extracted from training videos. Each of the video classifiers can then be applied to a given video to obtain a score indicating whether or not the video is representative of the concept associated with the classifier. The learning process does not require any concepts to be known a priori, nor does it require a training set of videos having training labels manually applied by human experts. Rather, in one embodiment the learning is based solely upon the content of the videos themselves and on whatever metadata was provided along with the video, e.g., on possibly sparse and/or inaccurate textual metadata specified by a user of a video hosting service who submitted the video. |
| US08396285B2 |
Estimating vanishing points in images
A digital image is processed to provide an estimation of the position in the image plane of a vanishing point. The processing includes detecting pairs of similar image patches and identifying a concurrent set of straight virtual lines that substantially converge at a point on the image plane, each line passing through a pair of similar image patches within the image. |
| US08396281B2 |
Apparatus and method for inspecting substrate internal defects
A method for inspecting substrate internal defects is disclosed. The method provides at least one light source disposed on a lateral side of a substrate and configured to emit a light beam to the lateral side for correspondingly penetrating the substrate. The method also provides an image capturing module for retrieving an image of the upper surface, wherein an incident angle of the light beam to the respective lateral side is limited within a first predetermined angle to allow the light beam to have a total reflection in the substrate. Thus, the light beam is blocked by internal defects when transmitting within the substrate to generate bright spots to be detected by the image capturing module for locating the defect position. The method provides a better image definition of internal defects images. The present invention further provides an apparatus based on the method for inspecting substrate internal defects. |
| US08396277B2 |
Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus
In an MRI apparatus, an executing unit executes an image taking sequence according to a parallel imaging method so as to collect MR signals by using a plurality of RF coils; a reconstructing unit reconstructs an MR image from the MR signals; an unfolding processing unit performs an unfolding process to unfold aliasing that has occurred in the MR image, by using sensitivity distribution data indicating a spatial sensitivity distribution of the RF coils; a judging unit judges whether the unfolded image includes one or more pixels of which the pixel values are abnormal; and when the judgment result is in the affirmative, a correcting unit corrects the sensitivity distribution data so that the pixel values of the pixels become closer to a normal value. After the sensitivity distribution data has been corrected, the unfolding processing unit performs the unfolding process again by using the corrected sensitivity distribution data. |
| US08396276B2 |
Systems and methods for performing an image-based gating procedure during an IVUS imaging procedure
A method for imaging a patient using an intravascular ultrasound imaging system includes inserting a catheter into a target imaging region within patient vasculature. The catheter includes at least one transducer coupled to a control module. A plurality of image frames is generated as the at least one transducer is moved within patient vasculature. The image frames are based on data obtained from a plurality of echo signals reflected from patient tissue in response to a plurality of acoustic signals output from the at least one transducer. Each image frame includes a motion-blur component. A motion-blur-intensity estimate is quantified for each image frame to form a motion-blur-estimation signal that varies over time and that includes periodic local motion blur minima. Temporal variations of the motion-blur components are filtered to reduce variation in the motion-blur-intensity estimate arising from vessel structure variation. Image frames are selected that contain local motion blur minima. |
| US08396274B2 |
Imaging system
The present invention relates to an imaging system for imaging a field of interest, in particular to a computed tomography system. The imaging system comprises an irradiation unit (2) which moves relative to a field of interest along a first trajectory (501) and along a second trajectory (503). While the irradiation unit (2) moves along the first trajectory (501), first detection data are acquired and, while the irradiation unit (2) moves along the second trajectory (503), second detection data are acquired. An intermediate image of the field of interest is reconstructed from at least the second detection data, and virtual detection data are determined by forward projection through the intermediate image. Finally, an image of the field of interest is reconstructed from the first detection data and the virtual detection data. |
| US08396267B2 |
Correcting subject motion in multiple resolutions in magnetic resonance imaging
Systems, methods and articles of manufacture are disclosed for compensating for motion of a subject during an MRI scan of the subject. k-space data may be received from the MRI scan of the subject. A first graphical image may be generated from a first set of data elements from the k-space data. Similarly, a second graphical image may be generated from a second set of data elements from the k-space data. An offset in pixels may be determined by which to translate the second graphical image from the first graphical image to compensate for the motion. The k-space data may be modified at a sub-pixel offset relative to the determined offset. A motion-compensated graphical image of the subject may be generated from the modified k-space data. Doing so reduces the search space evaluated to sharpen images generated from the k-space data. |
| US08396266B2 |
Characterisation of functional medical image scans
In a method for assessing an acquired functional medical scan, a virtual functional medical scan is generated from a structural medical scan (e.g., MRI) using known techniques. The acquired functional medical image scan is then assessed by comparing it with the virtual functional medical scan. Since both scans are derived from the same source, there is no need for e.g., registration of the patient anatomy and the reference data. |
| US08396264B2 |
Face matching device, electronic device, face matching device control method, and face matching device control program
A face matching device (1) of the present invention includes: a target image obtaining section (101) for obtaining a target face image capturing time, that is, the time of capturing a target face image; and a matching use image selecting section (104) for selecting, on the basis of (i) the target face image capturing time obtained by the target image obtaining section (101) and (ii) a reference face image capturing time stored in a reference image database (121), a reference face image for use in matching. With the arrangement, it is possible to carry out accurate matching with respect to a desired face image among a plurality of images including face images which show respective persons of various ages. |
| US08396259B2 |
Electronic device having biometric authentication function and data management method
An electronic device having a biometric authentication function is provided which includes a biometric authentication sensor for detecting a feature quantity of a living body, a user identification unit for identifying a user based on the feature quantity detected by the biometric authentication sensor at a time a specific operation is performed by the user, and a data storage unit for storing data acquired according to the specific operation in a specific folder corresponding to the user identified by the user identification unit. |
| US08396257B2 |
End user image open area maps
Systems, devices, applications, and methods for generating an open area map are disclosed. For example, a software application is configured to run on a computing platform of an end user. The end user generates an image of a layout of a walkable area. The software application performs a method of generating an open area map based on the image. The method includes applying an array of uniformly spaced objects on the image. A routable map is generated as a function of the array. The routable map is configured to provide point-to-point routing within the layout. |
| US08396255B2 |
System for and method of processing laser scan samples and digital photographic images relating to building facades
A computer arrangement is disclosed, including a processor that can communicate with a memory. The memory stores a computer program that can be run by the processor, and stores a set of laser scan samples including a sub-set of laser scan samples relating to a façade of a building and stores location data as to each laser scan sample. The memory also stores a picture of the same façade including location data as to pixels of the picture. The picture includes data as to a wall of the façade and data as to texture elements in the wall. In at least one embodiment, the processor automatically identifies the wall and the texture elements in the picture while using the laser scan samples. |
| US08396250B2 |
Network surveillance system
A method for estimating the activity topology of a set of sensed data windows is described. Each of the sensed data windows related to a corresponding sensed region. The method includes the steps of determining a subset of sensed data windows that are not connected; and excluding the subset of sensed data windows from the set of sensed data windows. In one embodiment, the sensed data windows corresponding to image windows such as would be provided by a visual surveillance system. |
| US08396246B2 |
Tagging images with labels
An image to be shared with other users based on input from a first user is received. A second user is identified from a tag of the image, and information is provided, based at least in part on the tag, to one or both of the first user and the second user. Additionally, after editing of an image a determination can be made as to whether a region of the image having an associated tag has been affected by the editing. The tag associated with the region is altered if the region has been affected by the editing, otherwise the tag associated with the region is left unaltered. Furthermore, the tag can include a first portion storing data identifying a region of the image to which the tag corresponds, and a second portion storing data identifying a person shown in the region. |
| US08396240B2 |
Baffle vibration reducing
A first electro-acoustic transducer and a second electro-acoustic transducer are supported by a housing attached to a baffle to form an asymmetric acoustical system. An equalizer receives an input signal and generates an equalized signal which is transmitted to the second electro-acoustic transducer. The equalizer is configured to generate the equalized signal such that a net mechanical force acting on the baffle, generated by the first electro-acoustic transducer in response to the input signal and by the second electro-acoustic transducer in response to the equalized signal, is less than the net mechanical force that would be generated if the equalized signal were unchanged in magnitude and equal or opposite in phase to the input signal. |
| US08396234B2 |
Method for reducing noise in an input signal of a hearing device as well as a hearing device
A method for reducing noise in an input signal (110) of a hearing device comprising a transfer function (H) as well as a hearing device is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: capturing first and second acoustic signals by first and second acoustic-electric converters (1, 2), providing first and second input signals (110, 311) by the first and the second acoustic-electric converters (1, 2), deriving an information signal (410) by using the first and the second input signals (110, 311), deriving an information signal estimate (S) from the information signal (410), deriving a noise signal (411) by using the first and the second input signals (110, 311), deriving a noise signal estimate (N) from the noise signal (411), generating instantaneous coefficients (412, 312) for the transfer function (H) by using the information signal estimate (S) and the noise signal estimate (N), applying the transfer function (H) to the first input signal (110) or to a processed first input signal (410) generating an output signal (111), and feeding the output signal (111) to an electro-acoustic converter (5) of the hearing device. |
| US08396232B2 |
Surgical console operable to playback multimedia content
A method and system are disclosed for playing, storing, accessing, and retrieving multimedia content and providing the content to a surgical environment. In particular, the audio playback function can provide a means to play background music in an operating room to provide a soothing and/or entertaining background to the surgical team and/or a patient. Further audio and video playback can provide a walkthrough of preparing surgical cassettes, hand pieces and other consumables used in ophthalmic surgery. |
| US08396229B2 |
Musical maternity belt
Presented herein is a system for transmitting sounds to an in-utero infant, that is worn by a pregnant woman, said system comprising a flexible carrier with two arms and adapted to accommodate the continuously changing shape of the abdomen of a pregnant woman; an array of speakers disposed on the arms of the carrier and substantially surrounding the in-utero infant with the sounds emitted from said speakers; an amplifier operatively associated with the array of speakers that enables tailoring the frequencies and tonal qualities of the sounds emitted from the array of speakers to levels suitable for an in-utero infant; and an audio device, operatively connected to the array of speakers and the amplifier, that provides a source from which sounds are played back. |
| US08396228B2 |
Floating ballast mass active stethoscope or sound pickup device
An active stethoscope or other sound detection device, including a diaphragm, at least one floating mass mounted to the diaphragm (at at least one coupling point of the diaphragm), and an acoustic transducer mounted to the floating mass. Preferably, each floating mass is configured and mounted so that as each floating mass and each coupling point of the diaphragm move in sympathy with acoustic waves (to be detected) that impinge on the diaphragm, the acoustic transducer rides with and is stabilized by the floating mass to which it is mounted and the diaphragm is stabilized by each floating mass. The acoustic transducer can be of any of many different types. For example, it can be a microphone, or an optical, capacitive, or inductive transducer. The diaphragm can have an isolating portion which absorbs acoustic surface wave energy incident thereon, or otherwise prevents or reduces transmission of acoustic surface waves through the isolating portion between regions of the diaphragm. |
| US08396227B2 |
Method of determining the harmonic and anharmonic portions of a response signal of a device
A method of determining the harmonic and anharmonic portions of a response signal (RS) of a device (2), e.g. an electro-acoustic or electric device, comprises the steps of supplying an input signal (IS) to the device (2) causing the device (2) to respond with a response signal (RS), wherein the input signal (IS) is a sinusoidal signal having a continuously increasing or decreasing frequency (f), capturing the response signal (RS), transforming the captured response signal (RS) from the time space into the phase space and analyzing the phase space transformed response signal (TRS) in respect of its harmonic and/or anharmonic portions or establishing reference functions when defining the input signal (IS) and analyzing the response signal (RS) by Fourier transformations carried out by numerical integrations of the reference functions. |
| US08396226B2 |
Methods and systems for improved acoustic environment characterization
In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for determining a multi-dimensional sound signature for a location within a hypothetical space, comparing the multi-dimensional sound signature to a known multi-dimensional sound signature, and modifying the hypothetical space such that the similarity between the multi-dimensional sound signature for the location within the modified hypothetical space and the known multi-dimensional sound signature is increased. |
| US08396224B2 |
Methods and apparatuses for setting a hearing aid to an omnidirectional microphone mode or a directional microphone mode
The present invention pertains to a method of automatic switching between omnidirectional (OMNI) and directional (DIR) microphone modes in a binaural hearing aid comprising a first microphone system for the provision of a first input signal, a second microphone system for the provision of a second input signal, where the first microphone system is adapted to be placed in or at a first ear of a user, the second microphone system is adapted to be placed in or at a second ear of said user, the method comprising a measurement step, where the spectral and temporal modulations of the first and second input signal are monitored, an evaluation step, where the spectral and temporal modulations of the first and second input signal are evaluated by the calculation of an evaluation index of speech intelligibility for each of said signals, and an operational step, where the microphone mode of the first and the second microphone systems of the binaural hearing aid are selected in dependence of the calculated evaluation indexes. |
| US08396221B2 |
Secure broadcasting and multicasting
Techniques are presented for secure broadcasting and multicasting. Communications for multicasting and broadcasting are encrypted and decrypted using a secure communication key. The secure communication key is represented in a broadcast value that is sent to selected parties. The broadcast value represents the product of unique prime numbers and an additional number plus the secure communication key. Each party is represented by one of the unique prime numbers. Each party can acquire the secure communication key by dividing the broadcast value by its particular prime number to obtain a remainder, which is the secure communication key. |
| US08396219B2 |
Scrambler, scramble processing method, and program
A multiplication value decision unit (12) decides a multiplication value which is a positive value or a negative value corresponding to a bit value of each bit contained in a binary bit string constituting a scramble pattern generated in a pattern generation unit (11). A multiplication processing unit (13) multiplies symbol data representing each symbol value in the symbol data string formed by the multinary symbol containing a predetermined pair of a positive value and a negative value having an identical absolute value, in the value area, by the multiplication value decided by the multiplication value decision unit (12). Here, the multiplication processing unit (13) successively executes the multiplication between the symbol data for one symbol and the multiplication value decided corresponding to the bit value of the one bit contained in the scramble pattern until the number of symbols expressed by the symbol data string is reached. The present invention scrambles the data string by a simple operation and performs scramble by a simple processing even when the function channel content is changed. |
| US08396218B2 |
Cryptographic module distribution system, apparatus, and program
In a cryptographic module distribution system, a cryptographic management server apparatus encrypts a cryptographic module using a key shared by a cryptographic apparatus, and transmits the encrypted cryptographic module to a client apparatus. The client apparatus transmits the encrypted cryptographic module to a cryptographic apparatus. The cryptographic apparatus decrypts the encrypted cryptographic module using the key shared by the cryptographic management server apparatus, and transmits the decrypted cryptographic module to the client apparatus. The client apparatus stores the received cryptographic module. |
| US08396217B2 |
Broadcast receiving apparatus and channel changing method thereof
In a broadcast receiving apparatus and a channel changing method in a broadcast receiving apparatus, broadcast data corresponding to a selected broadcast program, included in a channel broadcast signal received as a result of broadcast program selection, is descrambled based on previously stored descrambling control information, thereby shortening scrambling time and reducing channel change time in the broadcast receiving apparatus. |
| US08396215B2 |
Signal transmission apparatus and signal transmission method
A signal transmission apparatus includes: a serial-to-parallel conversion unit serial-to-parallel converting HD-SDI format serial digital video signals of Link A containing CH1, CH3, CH5, and CH7, and Link B containing CH2, CH4, CH6, and CH8; a scrambler rewriting a specified timing reference signal among data of horizontal lines in converted Link A into a predetermined value, applying scrambling to only specified data, performing encoding, and outputting at least up to several bits of data following an error detection code; an extracting unit extracting RGB bits only from specified data among data of horizontal lines in converted Link B; an 8-bit/10-bit encoder subjecting the extracted RGB bits of the Link B to 8-bit/10-bit encoding; a multiplexing unit multiplexing scrambled parallel digital data of the Link A and encoded parallel digital data of the Link B; and a serial digital data generating unit generating serial digital data from the parallel digital data. |
| US08396199B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing personal mobility features in a telecommunications environment
Personal mobility, multiparty control, and device augmentation features are provided within a voice-over-Internet protocol environment, such as a distributed feature composition (DFC) telecommunications architecture. The personal mobility features allow a caller to be identified to a callee using a desired identifier in place of an identifier of the device from which a call is made. Such personal mobility features are made available in multiparty calling environments and after mid-call moves. Device augmentation features provide enhanced calling options to a device that may otherwise be unequipped to provide such options, thus enabling personal mobility and multiparty control features across a wide variety of telecommunications devices. |
| US08396195B2 |
Methods, systems, and products for dynamically-changing IVR architectures
Methods, systems, and products are disclosed for dynamically changing an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system. Responses to a menu of prompts are monitored. A presentation order of the menu of prompts is automatically updated according to a set of rules. The set of rules describe qualifications for dynamically changing the menu of prompts. |
| US08396191B2 |
Anti-social protocol for emergency dispatch
Systems and methods are provided to guide an emergency dispatcher in responding to emergency calls involving a hate crime or other anti-social behavior. The systems and methods can include an emergency police dispatch protocol configured to facilitate uniform and consistent gathering of information about an incident being reported. The emergency police dispatch protocol includes one or more dispatch protocols configured for particular incidents or emergency situations, such as to aid the dispatcher in processing calls relating to anti-social behavior. The emergency police dispatch protocol presents a pre-scripted interrogation, including preprogrammed inquiries for a dispatcher to ask the caller. The pre-scripted interrogation of the dispatch protocol facilitates uniform and consistent gathering of information relating to hate crimes and other anti-social behavior. The information gathered can be stored and/or processed to determine a determinant value corresponding to an appropriate emergency dispatch response. |
| US08396190B2 |
Liquid target producing device being able to use multiple capillary tube and X-ray and EUV light source device with the liquid target producing device
A liquid target producing device to which multiple capillary tubes are mountable includes a capillary tube for injecting a liquid target in a jet form; a gas storage tank connected to the capillary tube through a gas line to store a gas to be supplied to the capillary tube; a metal jacket positioned at an outer circumference of the capillary tube such that a plurality of capillary tubes are installable thereto, the metal jacket liquefying the gas supplied through the gas line; a cryo-cooler connected to the metal jacket through a thermal conductive wire to cool the metal jacket; and a moving means for moving the metal jacket so as to set an initial position of the capillary tube. |
| US08396184B2 |
X-ray CT system and control method for same
An X-ray CT system of an embodiment includes the following. An imaging region data acquisition part is configured to acquire a first imaging region and a second imaging region that have different widths from each other in the body axial direction based on a scanogram as imaging regions for performing scan imaging. An irradiation field control part is configured to obtain irradiation fields for the first and the second imaging regions, and control an irradiation field regulating part corresponding to the relative positions by a moving part so as to realize the irradiation fields obtained for each the imaging region. An X-ray control part is configured to control an X-ray generating part corresponding to the relative positions by the moving part so as to irradiate X-rays to the first and the second imaging regions for the scan imaging. |
| US08396182B2 |
Method and apparatus to shield a nuclear fuel assembly with removable debris shield in upper tie
A method to capture, retain and remove debris falling into a nuclear reactor fuel bundle assembly including a bundle of fuel rods mounted below an upper tie plate and housed in a hollow metal channel, the method includes: inserting a debris shield in the upper tie plate; maintaining the shield in the upper tie plate and above the fuel rods, and water rods, while the fuel bundle assembly is in an operating nuclear reactor core; capturing debris falling in the fuel assembly on the debris shield; after capturing the debris, removing the fuel bundle assembly with the inserted debris shield from the nuclear reactor core to a maintenance/fuel inspection pool and thereafter removing the debris shield from the upper tie plate, cleaning and then reinserting the cleaned debris shield back into the upper tie plate, and moving the fuel bundle assembly from the maintenance/fuel inspection pool back into the nuclear reactor core. |
| US08396179B2 |
Frame synchronizing device and method
Disclosed is a frame synchronizing device and method for a binary data transmission system wherein digital data are transmitted as a serial bit stream organized into frames, each frame including a pre-defined frameheader, wherein said serial bit stream is inputted into a serial input portion of a serial input parallel output shift register means having at least as many stages as the number of bits of a frame, and said frames are outputted in a consecutive order from a parallel output portion of said shift register means. The particularity of the present invention is that it is detected whether or not a frameheader is present in the output of said parallel output portion, and, if not, the outputting of a frame from said parallel output portion is delayed by at least one time period which is needed for shifting a bit in said serial input portion from a stage to a next one, until synchronization is reached. |
| US08396170B2 |
Utilization of a known portion of a payload to decode a payload having a known and an unknown portion
A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided in which a payload is received, the payload having a known portion and an unknown portion. The payload is decoded through correlation, where correlation includes the generation of a plurality of payload hypothesis based on possible combinations of the unknown portion and using the known portion and the generation of a metric value based on each of the plurality of payload hypothesis. The received payload is selected through a determination of the payload hypothesis having a largest generated metric value. |
| US08396169B2 |
Channel estimation method of the mobile communication system based on the time division pilot field
A method of channel estimation of a mobile communication system based on a time division pilot field is disclosed. The method uses a transmitting end that transmits a time division pilot sequence having a cyclic prefix and a receiving end that transforms the time division pilot sequence into frequency domain using a fast Fourier transform module. Channel estimation is performed to obtain a channel frequency response estimation result. The receiving end transforms the channel frequency response estimation result back into time domain and obtains a channel impulse response estimation result. |
| US08396162B2 |
Method and apparatus for choosing a modulation and coding rate in a multi-user, MIMO communication system
A method and apparatus for choosing a modulation and coding rate in a MU-MIMO communication system is provided herein. During operation, a node will determine the MCR to feed back to the base even though the mobile does not know which of the possible interferers (if any) will be using the same time/frequency resources as the mobile. This takes place via the mobile node calculating best antenna weights (codebook choice) for each group of subcarriers that can be potentially used by the mobile. Transmit weights v for each interferer are then determined and the weights are utilized to determine a best modulation and coding rate for the mobile. |
| US08396159B2 |
Message synchronization over a stochastic network
Methods and apparatus to communicate between a local component and a remote component, where the local component is connected to the remote component using a non-deterministic communication link. A local clock is synchronized with a remote clock to within a maximum offset. A rate message from the remote component is received at the local component, where the rate message includes a first time stamp. A data rate is adjusted using the rate message when the time of the local clock substantially matches a time determined using the first time stamp. A data message is sent to the remote component using the adjusted data rate, where the data message includes a second time stamp for use in processing data in the data message. In some implementations, the time determined using the first time stamp is also determined using information about a communication link delay and/or a clock offset. |
| US08396158B2 |
Data processing method, data transmission method, data reception method, apparatus, codebook, computer program product, computer program distribution medium
The invention is related to a data processing method comprising: selecting from at least one codebook a codebook and at least one weight in the codebook fulfilling a predetermined performance criterion, wherein one of the at least one codebook is of the form: [ 1 0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0 1 0.5 ⅇ j 0 0.5 ⅇ j π 3 0.5 ⅇ j 2 π 3 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 ⅇ j π 0.5 ⅇ j 4 π 3 0.5 ⅇ j 5 π 3 ] ; and informing the selected at least one codebook and weight to a transmitter for being used in transmission. |
| US08396155B2 |
Advanced method for decoding in the MIMO system and apparatus for implementing thereof
A mobile station is capable of detecting a signal in the wireless communication systems using the Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO). The mobile station includes an apparatus that determines a vector of signals received by several receiving antennas. The apparatus estimates a channel between transmitting antenna and receiving antenna; forms a channel matrix; establishes, based on the channel state data, an order for detecting symbols transmitted by different transmitting antennas; calculates weight coefficients for detecting the symbols in the MIMO system; detects the symbols serially in the established order on the basis of the received signal vector; calculates the Euclidean distance between the detected symbols and the symbol constellation points; determines values of the Logarithmic Likelihood Ratio (LLR) for estimating the soft output bit probability, and forms a group of the most probable candidate symbols from the points of the symbol constellation. |
| US08396144B2 |
Method and system for OFDM symbol timing recovery
A method and system for OFDM symbol timing recovery is described. A symbol timing recovery module of an OFDM receiver is configured to determine an optimum trigger point for performing a discrete Fourier transform in a manner that minimizes inter-symbol interference. |
| US08396142B2 |
System, method, and computer-readable medium for multilevel shaping for wireless communication systems
A system, method and computer-readable medium for encoding and decoding digital information over a channel is provided. Type Mapping is employed and is based on the partitioning of vectors over an alphabet into “types” and using enumeration for the encoding and decoding process. Type mapping allows for signal alphabets of arbitrary size and date rate flexible coding. Tradeoffs between optimal rate versus Signal to Noise Ratio are provided and works as a compliment to the Forward Error Control that may be employed in communications products. |
| US08396138B2 |
System and method for controlling wireless network access information in using removable external modem
Disclosed are a system and a method for controlling wireless network access information in using a removable external modem. These relates to a case where a removable external modem among devices for a wireless access server (e.g. WiMAX) is connected with a host customer electronics (CE) device so as to be used. Particularly, in a case where the removable external modem, which has no information for accessing a specific network, e.g. operator Lock, a roaming list, a credential, operator ID, etc., when it is introduced, receives network access information through initial access, registration, and provisioning step, and is connected to other device to be used, the modem can be directly connected to a network of an existing registered network communication provider without a separate supplementary registration or a provisioning step. |
| US08396136B1 |
Close-proximity communications system using capacitively coupled signal transfer
A system includes a first device having a first transceiver and a first device electrode pair connected to the first transceiver, and a second device having a second transceiver and a second device electrode pair connected to the second transceiver. The second device electrode pair is located relative to the first device electrode pair such that the first device electrode pair and the second device electrode pair form a capacitive network. The first transceiver and second transceiver are each configured to receive a plurality of bits, encode each bit of the plurality of bits, and DC balance and transmit each of the plurality of encoded bits over the capacitive network. Methods for use with the system are provided for encoding and transmitting data, as well as receiving and decoding the encoded data. |
| US08396132B2 |
Moving picture coding method and moving picture decoding method
A moving picture coding apparatus (10a) according to the present invention includes a level analyzer (100a) that decides the maximum number of intra frame pixels which can be coded (Nfpx) and the maximum number of storage pixels which can be stored in a picture memory of a decoding apparatus (Nspx) on the basis of a level identifier (Lst) indicating a coding level that is designated by the user, thereby judging whether coding of an input image is possible or not and calculating the maximum number of reference pictures (Nrpn) as the number of reference candidate pictures which can be referred to at inter picture prediction coding, on the basis of the maximum number of intra frame pixels (Nfpx) and the input image size (the number of vertical pixels (Nhpx) and the number of horizontal pixels (Nwpx)). A decoding apparatus to which a bit stream from the moving picture coding apparatus (10a) is supplied can always decode the bit stream satisfactorily, and perform inter picture prediction decoding corresponding to the inter picture prediction coding on the coding end. Consequently, memory areas of a coding apparatus and a decoding apparatus that are adapted to a coding method in which there is no restraint on the capacity of the memory area can be designed. |
| US08396131B2 |
Method and system for obtaining motion vectors and boundary strengths of an image
A method and a system for obtaining motion vectors and boundary strengths of an image are disclosed. The method comprises the steps of: S202, determining motion vector prediction direction information and motion vector calculation method information of a block to be decoded currently according to a type of the block to be decoded currently and a type of a macroblock/sub-macroblock in which the block to be decoded currently is located; S204, obtaining related information needed to calculate a motion vector of the block to be decoded currently using the motion vector prediction direction information according to the motion vector calculation method information; and S206, calculating the motion vector of the block to be decoded currently using the related information obtained, and calculating a boundary strength of the block to be decoded currently using the motion vector of the block to be decoded currently. |
| US08396130B2 |
Motion vector search method and apparatus, program therefor, and storage medium which stores the program
A motion vector search method used in video encoding which performs motion-compensated prediction. The method includes inputting a motion vector which has been searched for with respect to an encoding target block; computing a motion vector having a minimum overhead cost which minimizes the amount of code generated for the motion vector of the encoding target block; limiting a search area based on the input motion vector and the motion vector having the minimum overhead cost; and searching for a motion vector by searching only the limited search area. It is possible to compute a predicted vector of the encoding target block based on a motion vector of an already-encoded block in the vicinity of the target block, and determine the computed predicted vector to be the motion vector having the minimum overhead cost. |
| US08396127B1 |
Segmentation for video coding using predictive benefit
A frame of a video stream is segmented based on its ability to predict the contents of one or more temporally nearby frames. Predictive ability can be measured by comparing the magnitude of the error per block of a video for intra-frame prediction with inter-frame prediction. Segments can be determined by grouping similar error magnitudes together when the frame is a good predictor for the nearby frames. Coding parameters can be defined at the segment level to reduce the number of bits used to represent the encoded video stream and thereby reduce network and/or storage bandwidth. |
| US08396126B2 |
Systems and methods for video coding and transmission
Disclosed herein are certain embodiments of lattice video coding (LVC) systems and methods (collectively referred to herein also as LVC systems) that provide for adaptive streaming and/or burst error immunity in a video distribution network, such as the Internet or other communication networks. In general, as and explained further below, such LVC systems decompose or partition pictures of one or more segments (e.g., groups of pictures or GOPs) of a video stream into N lattice representations (also referred to herein as latticed representations, latticed or latticed video representations, or the like), where each lattice representation comprises a subset of the pixels of the pre-partitioned picture, and where the collective lattice representations of a given picture comprises the same number of pixels as the pre-partitioned picture. Each resulting lattice representation corresponds to an independently decodable stream (or in some embodiments, dependently decodable streams) that is transmitted in such a manner as to enable dispersion of the corresponding data, hence resulting in temporal data elasticity and immunity to burst errors. Further, with regard to adaptive streaming, the decomposition of the original video into independently decodable streams of lattice representations enables fine-tuning of the bit rate without the necessity of signaling between a receiver and server while obviating the need for additional encoding hardware as is common in multi-bit rate stream implementations. |
| US08396123B2 |
Video coding and decoding method using weighted prediction and apparatus for the same
A video coding and decoding method using a weighted prediction and an apparatus for the same are provided. The video coding method includes generating a predicted image for a present block; generating a weighted prediction factor which is a scaling factor of the predicted image that minimizes the difference between the present block and the predicted image; generating a weighted prediction image by multiplying the predicted image by the weighted prediction factor; and coding a residual signal generated by subtracting the weighted prediction image from the present block. |
| US08396117B2 |
Apparatus, arrangement, method and computer program product for digital video processing
An apparatus, arrangement, method and computer program product for digital video processing encodes a video stream while dynamically adjusting the complexity level of the encoder. One apparatus includes a processor providing processing resources, a video encoder utilizing the resources to encode a digital video that includes a plurality of complexity levels used to encode video frames forming the video, a usage meter to measure repeatedly a usage level of the resources during running of the encoder, and an optimizer to direct repeatedly the encoder to utilize the resources adaptively by calculating a usage level of the resources for a plurality of the frames encoded before a current frame using the measured usage levels, comparing the calculated usage level to a predetermined level of the resources, and selecting one of the complexity levels to encode the current frame based on a comparison of the calculated usage level to the predetermined level. |
| US08396116B2 |
Moving picture coding method and moving picture decoding method
A moving picture coding apparatus 1 includes: a quantization matrix holding unit (112) that holds a quantization matrix (WM) which has already been transmitted in a parameter set and a matrix ID for identifying the quantization matrix (WM), which are associated with each other; and a variable length coding unit (111) that obtains the matrix ID corresponding to the quantization matrix (WM) used for quantization from the quantization matrix holding unit (112) and places the matrix ID in a coded stream Str. |
| US08396106B2 |
System and method for improving equalization in a high speed serdes environment
A method and accompanying system are disclosed for tuning each channel of a high-speed SerDes link interface arranged in a configuration linking a local side to a remote side. The method includes transmitting a flow control packets from the local side to the remote side to change remote side transmission characteristics in a link channel; monitoring the bit error rate (BER) in the link channel; transferring additional flow control packets to adjust the remote side transmission characteristics; and processing the BER data at the local side to generate the remote side transmission characteristics for the link channel. |
| US08396104B2 |
4K mode interleaver with odd interleaving only and per OFDM symbol permutation code change in a digital video broadcasting (DVB) standard
A data processing apparatus maps input symbols to be communicated onto a predetermined number of sub-carrier signals of an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexed (OFDM) symbol. The data processor includes an interleaver memory which reads-in the predetermined number of data symbols for mapping onto the OFDM sub-carrier signals. The interleaver memory reads-out the data symbols on to the OFDM sub-carriers to effect the mapping, the read-out being in a different order than the read-in, the order being determined from a set of addresses, with the effect that the data symbols are interleaved on to the sub-carrier signals. The set of addresses are generated from an address generator which comprises a linear feedback shift register and a permutation circuit. The linear feedback shift register has eleven register stages with a generator polynomial for the linear feedback shift register of R′i[10]=R′i−1[0]⊕R′i−1[2], and the permutation code forms, with an additional bit, a twelve bit address. |
| US08396101B2 |
Multiple high-speed bit stream interface circuit
A high-speed bit stream interface module interfaces a high-speed communication media to a communication Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) via a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) or the communication ASIC to another communication ASIC. The high-speed bit stream interface includes a plurality of signal conditioning circuits. The signal conditioning circuits service each of an RX path and a TX path and include a limiting amplifier and a clock and data recovery circuit. The signal conditioning circuit may also include an equalizer and/or an output pre-emphasis circuit. The clock and data recovery circuit has an adjustable Phase Locked Loop (PLL) bandwidth that is set to correspond to a jitter bandwidth of a serviced high-speed bit stream. |
| US08396099B2 |
Multi-carrier receiver, multi-carrier transmitter and multi-carrier transceiver system
A multi-carrier receiver, multi-carrier transmitter and a multi-carrier transceiver system are provided. The multi-carrier receiver includes at least a first processing unit, a routed switch and a second processing unit. The first processing unit has M first processing paths, performs intensity processing to at least one RF signal for outputting sub-carrier signals. The routed switch has M input terminals and N output terminals, where the M input terminals are respectively coupled to the M first processing paths and receive the sub-carrier signals. The routed switch connects each input terminal to at least one output terminal or none of the output terminals according to a control signal. The second processing unit has N second processing paths respectively coupled to the N output terminals for demodulating the sub-carrier signals and performing an analog-to-digital conversion to the demodulated signals for generating digital signals, where M and N are greater than 0. |
| US08396094B2 |
Frequency tracking method and apparatus applied to positioning system
A frequency tracking method applied to a positioning system is provided. The method includes receiving a baseband signal, the baseband signal includes a line of sight (LOS) signal and a multipath signal; generating a cost function according to equal step frequencies, the baseband signal and a signal average energy; and generating an estimated LOS frequency according to the cost function. |
| US08396086B1 |
Scalable association scheme for TV white-space MIMO wireless system
A computer-implemented method may include receiving at a wireless device one or more beacon packets sent by a communication base station, determining a delay period at the wireless device, wherein the delay period is determined so that a delay for the wireless device is different than a delay for another wireless device, sending a first association request from the wireless device after waiting for the delay period, and establishing communication with the base station if an association response is received from the base station within a determined time period. The first association request may include information identifying the wireless device and an association code. |
| US08396080B2 |
Method of processing control information in a mobile communication system
A method of processing control information in a mobile communication system is disclosed, by which an RRC connection setup can be quickly completed and by which control information can be processed without an unnecessary standby of a mobile terminal. The present invention includes the steps of receiving a plurality of protocol data units transmitted plural time from a transmitting side via one common logical channel by an RLC (radio link control) entity operating in a UM (unacknowledged mode) and having a receiving window and a timer, re-ordering a plurality of the received protocol data units using sequence numbers of a plurality of the received protocol data units, the receiving window and the timer, reassembling at least one service data unit by processing a plurality of the re-ordered protocol data units, and delivering the at least one service data unit. |
| US08396078B2 |
Rate matching device and method thereof, de-rate matching device and method thereof
A rate matching method and device wherein the number of times to output each bit included in input data is determined in parallel, and the data length of the input data is expanded or contracted, based on basic parameters for expanding or contracting the input data and the bit number (m) of each bit of the input data. A de-rate matching method and device is also disclosed wherein expanded or contracted data is decoded to pre-expanded/contracted data. |
| US08396073B2 |
Voice relaying apparatus and voice relaying method
A voice relaying apparatus includes a receiving section for receiving a cell from an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) network, a plurality of cell assembling/disassembling units for assembling and disassembling the cells, and a transmitting section for transmitting the cells assembled by each of the plurality of cell assembling/disassembling units. Each of the plurality of cell assembling/disassembling units is composed of a cell disassembling section for disassembling the cell received by the receiving section, a detecting section for detecting whether or not the voice relaying apparatus is carrying out a relay switch operation, and a cell assembling section for assembling the cell disassembled by the cell disassembling section and then sending to the transmitting section, if the fact that the voice relaying apparatus is carrying out the relay switch operation is detected by the detecting section. |
| US08396071B2 |
Base station, mobile station, and communications method
A base station carrying out communications with a mobile station with an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) method by using a predetermined frequency band out of a transmission band is disclosed. The base station includes an allocation portion that allocates, for a mobile station performing peripheral cell search, a band that includes a center frequency on a raster of a first band and has a bandwidth equal to or greater than a bandwidth of a second band with which a synchronization channel is transmitted. |
| US08396070B2 |
Method for transmitting VoIP packet
A method for transmitting a voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) packet includes allocating a radio resource for VoIP packet transmission to a user, transitioning a VoIP service from a talk period, in which the VoIP packet is transmitted using the radio resource, to a silence period in which the VoIP packet is not transmitted, releasing the radio resource during the silence period, and transitioning the VoIP service to the talk period by reallocating the radio resource. Limited radio resources can be further effectively used. |
| US08396069B1 |
Using domain name server response and internet protocol version 6 to conserve internet protocol version 4 addresses
Communication to a target device using IP is provided. An IPv6 address is registered. An AAAA-record DNS lookup is performed and an A-record DNS lookup is performed, both using the IPv6 network. A response related to the AAAA-record DNS lookup is received and a response to the A-record DNS lookup is received. If a valid IPv6 address is contained in the AAAA-record response, communication uses IPv6. If no valid IPv6 address is contained in the AAAA-record response, an IPv4 address is registered and communication uses IPv4. |
| US08396063B1 |
Multi-thread media access controller with per-thread MAC address
A wireless signal processor for handling a plurality of wireless sessions comprises a plurality of baseband receivers, one for each session, each receiver producing a digital output, a multiplexer for multiplexing the plurality of digital outputs into a single data stream, a digital signal processor for converting the stream of multiplexed data into a media access controller format, and a media access controller for demultiplexing and framing the stream of data into a plurality of data buffers, one data buffer for each wireless session. |
| US08396060B2 |
Network control system
A network control system for packet-transmitting a manipulated variable (MV), calculated from a deviation between a variable from a sensor measuring a physical quantity of a controlled object plant and a set value at a known sampling period, to an actuator provided on the plant side via a network, and causing the actuator to provide the MV to the plant. The system includes: an MV complementing unit that provides a complementary value of the MV to the actuator when an error occurs in a packet transmission; an MV buffering unit that answers back trend data of the MV provided to the plant from the actuator or the complementary value being complemented by the MV compensating unit for the actuator, to the controller via the network; and an MV compensating unit that corrects a calculation of the MV of the controller based on the trend data or the complementary value being answered. |
| US08396059B1 |
Automated discovery/rediscovery of server to network connectivity
In one embodiment, an apparatus obtains a switch port identifier mapping for each of the plurality of ports of a network device, wherein the switch port identifier mapping indicates a port identifier of one of the plurality of ports of the network device and a switch port identifier of a switch port to which the one of the plurality of ports is connected. The apparatus obtains a set of switch information for each of a plurality of switches, the set of switch information including a set of switch port identifiers associated with the corresponding one of the plurality of switches. The apparatus ascertains for each one of the plurality of ports, a corresponding one of the plurality of switches and a port of the one of the plurality of switches to which the one of the plurality of ports is connected. |
| US08396057B2 |
Method and apparatus for traffic regulation in a communication network
A manner of managing selected CPE (customer premises equipment), UE (user equipments, or other subscriber device traffic in a communication system. A management traffic regulator is provided that inspects incoming management traffic from and determines whether it should be forwarded to a server. The determination is made by comparing the type of message to a rules and policy database, which in one embodiment prescribes which messages will be declined if the level of traffic being processed has reached a certain percentage of the systems maximum capacity. |
| US08396056B2 |
Method and system for routing calls over a packet switched computer network
The present invention describes how a trusted network routing authority, such as a VoIP inter-exchange carrier or clearinghouse can provide routing and secure access control across multiple network domains with a single routing and admission request. This technology can improve network efficiency and quality of service when an Internet Protocol (IP) communication transaction, such as a Voice over IP (VoIP), must be routed across multiple devices or administrative domains. This technology defines the technique of performing multiple route look-ups at the source of the call path to determine all possible routes across intermediate domains to the final destination. The VoIP inter-exchange carrier or clearinghouse then provides routing and access permission tokens for the entire call path to the call source. |
| US08396049B2 |
Method and transcoder entity for tandem free operation in a telecommunication network
A method is described for engaging a first transcoder entity in a tandem free operation session with a second transcoder entity. The transcoder entities control the tandem free operation session and the insertion of transcoders into the session. They also perform a synchronization procedure of the first transcoder entity and the second transcoder entity and send tandem free operation frames. The tandem free operation frames are sent from the first transcoder entity to the second transcoder entity during execution of the synchronization procedure. A transcoder entity and a program embodying the invention is also described. |
| US08396046B2 |
Communication apparatus and communication control method
An origination terminal UA100 according to the present invention is provided with a screen state memory unit 500 for storing a screen state of an information display unit 360 at transmission of a call request including information on communication on a desired network and an initiation state of an application corresponding to the screen state and a control unit 320 for controlling the information display unit 360, when receiving a call enable notification in response to a call enable notification request transmitted after cancellation of a call from a destination terminal UA200, which becomes able to use the desired network, to display the screen state stored in the screen state memory unit 500 and, when detecting a call instruction in the screen state, an application corresponding to the call instruction to send a call. |
| US08396044B2 |
Method and system for antenna architecture for WCDMA/HSDPA/HSUDPA diversity and enhanced GSM/GPRS/edge performance
Methods and systems for antenna architecture for WCDMA/HSDPA/HSUDPA diversity and enhanced GSM/GPRS/EDGE performance are disclosed. Aspects of one method may include receiving, for example, WCDMA, HSDPA, and/or HSUDPA signals via a plurality of antennas The wireless terminal may also receive and/or transmit packets using, for example, GSM, GPRS, or EDGE, that do not require simultaneous use of multiple antennas by antenna switching among the antennas. The number of packets that may be received or transmitted before switching to another antenna may be pre-determined or may be dynamically changed. Accordingly, each antenna may receive or transmit a pre-determined number of packets or specified number of packet that may be dynamically changed before being switched to the next antenna Each of the plurality of antennas may be reconfigured to operate via at least one of a plurality of different center frequencies within a specified range when receiving or transmitting RF signals. |
| US08396043B2 |
Digital broadcast system for transmitting/receiving digital broadcast data, and data processing method for use in the same
The present invention is directed to a digital broadcast system and a data processing method. A broadcast signal in which mobile service data and main service data are multiplexed is transmitted and received. Then, in a broadcasting receiver, the program table information describing channel information and event information of the mobile service data according to an identifier of an ensemble in which the mobile service data are multiplexed, in the received broadcast signal. And the mobile service data is outputted by using the parsed program table information. |
| US08396041B2 |
Adapting a communication network to varying conditions
Systems and methods are disclosed for adapting a communication system to varying conditions. Using some form of discovery protocol, the communication standards supported by at least two communicants are determined. Each communicant may then periodically monitor the quality of the channel established by the communication standard and dynamically select a set of one or more communication standards to use for communicating. Further, when communicants share common non-standard parameterized implementations of communication standards, changes to the protocols which the communication standards comprise can be used to add options for a more dynamic response to changing conditions than is possible when adhering only to an established communication standard. |
| US08396040B2 |
Systems, methods, and devices to enable selection of radio access technology
In some embodiments, an access terminal is configured to select a first set of system resources, and communicate a message to acquire access to the first set of system resources, wherein the message conceals that the access terminal is capable of communication with a second set of system resources. In one embodiment, the first set of system resources includes circuit-switched system resources, the second set of system resources includes packet-switched system resources, and an access terminal conceals from the network that it is operable using the packet-switched system resources in order to acquire and/or maintain connected mode access to the circuit-switched system resources. Such embodiments allow an access terminal to use circuit-switched system resources even if the network does not support CS fallback or has refused a CS fallback request. |
| US08396039B2 |
Apparatus and method for multimode device handover
Systems and methods of operating multimode 3G/4G communications devices in an overlapping 3G/4G coverage area (e.g., WiMAX or LTE/CDMA EvDO) include determining if a number associated with temporarily-disabled sectors of an available sector set of the multimode device while the device is operational with a 3G base station is at least equal to a threshold number. If the number is at least equal to the threshold number, a scan for a sector in the 4G network to handover the operation of the multimode device from the 3G base station associated with the 3G coverage to a 4G base station associated with the 4G coverage is initiated. A scan for a fixed period of time for a new available sector in the 3G network to be added in the available sector set may be initiated; and, if a new available sector is added to the sector set, it may be redetermined if the number associated with the temporarily-disabled sectors is at least equal to the threshold number, before initiating the scan for a sector in the 4G network. |
| US08396038B2 |
CS to IMS hand-back and hand-in for IMS systems for legacy CS UE with home node B access
A system and method for allowing legacy circuit switch user equipment (CS UE) to operate via a packet switch system, such as an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) system, is provided. The mobility and session control aspects of communications with the legacy CS UE is separated. A user agent is placed in the receiving node (e.g., a home node B) that acts as the SIP agent for the CS UE for session control. An interworking function is provided to allow mobility between the macro CS network and the PS (e.g., IMS) network. Hand-back and hand-in procedures with service continuity are also provided. |
| US08396034B2 |
Method for determining cell identity in wireless communication system and apparatus therefor
A method of determining a cell identity in a wireless communication system is disclosed. The present invention includes the steps of obtaining a segment ID and a sequence index from an SA-preamble (secondary advanced preamble) sequence received from a base station and determining the cell identity using the segment ID and the sequence index. In this case, the cell identity corresponds to one SA-preamble sequence and a cell identity adjacent to the cell identity corresponds to an SA-preamble sequence having a complex conjugate relation of the one SA-preamble sequence. |
| US08396031B2 |
Method for allocating, by a telecommunication device, at least a channel element of a group of channel elements of a channel resource to a destination
The present invention concerns a method for allocating, by a telecommunication device, at least a channel element of a group of channel elements of a channel resource to a destination. Each channel element is a predefined subdivision of the channel resource. The telecommunication device: determines the number of channel elements to be allocated to the destination; selects at least one randomization function according to the number of channel elements to be allocated to the destination; processes the data to be included in the or each channel element to be allocated to the destination by the at least one selected randomization function; transfers the data processed by the at least one selected randomization function by mapping the data processed by the at least one randomization function on the at least one channel element. |
| US08396030B2 |
Selecting between normal and virtual dual layer ACK/NACK
An allocation of downlink resources is received, which are monitored on l layers for data. A resource-specific bit (ACK/NACK) is generated for each of those resources. From a pattern of those resources is selected an algorithm from among a first algorithm that bundles them in a first mode and a second algorithm that bundles them in a second mode. The selected algorithm is used on the generated resource-specific bits that correspond to the downlink resources, bundled according to the selected mode, to generate l reply bits which are then transmitted. At the network side a NACK reply bit is received, based on a pattern of the allocated downlink resources, a first algorithm that bundles them in a first mode or a second algorithm that bundles them in a second mode is selected. A bundling window and layer combination are determined from the selected algorithm, which gives the resource for retransmitting the NACK'd data. |
| US08396023B2 |
Frequency-domain interlacing in a multi-carrier frequency-hopping radio
A ‘smart’ sub-channel hopping control mechanism executes one or more sub-channel selection discriminators to enable the communications controller of a spectral reuse transceiver to delineate on which of a plurality sub-channels the spectral reuse transceiver may transmit, so as to substantially improve FEC performance. |
| US08396022B1 |
Source routing bandwidth activation
A method for processing a source routed packet comprises determining a next node in a source route for a source routed packet in a mesh network and transmitting the source routed packet to the next node in the source route. A method for creating a source routed packet comprises determining a source route path to a destination node and transmitting a source routed packet that includes the source route path to a first node associated with the source route path. |
| US08396021B2 |
Gaming console wireless protocol for peripheral devices
Methods of wireless communication between a gaming console and a wireless accessory using a protocol. The protocol is used in a TDMA frequency hopping spread spectrum system to enable simultaneous communication of voice and data between a plurality of wireless accessories and the gaming console. The protocol provides specific time slots for upstream and downstream transmissions, as well as a retransmission time slots to enable a robust environment with minimal latency. |
| US08396019B2 |
Network system, network apparatus and transfer apparatus
In order to maintain the reliability of telecommunication by means of the multicast wireless communication when IP multicast is used in the IP broadcast service, the network system includes a transfer apparatus for transferring multicast packets and transfer request packets and a network apparatus for receiving transfer request packets and for transferring the multicast packets to be distributed. The transfer apparatus transmits transfer requests together with transfer request packets when it transmits multicast packets to the receiver requiring unicast communication, and the network apparatus receives multicast packets, sets the destination MAC address of the multicast packet as the unicast MAC address of the receiver in response to the conversion request from the transfer apparatus and transfers multicast packets. |
| US08396016B2 |
Method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving data in a code division multiple access system
A method and apparatus are provided for transmitting data to access terminals by an access node in a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system operating at least 128 Medium Access Control Identifiers (MAC IDs) in one sector. A preamble set for transmitting a multi-user packet (MUP) is configured to a specific access terminal, information on the preamble set is provided to the terminal, and data is transmitted to an access terminal having a MAC ID of 128 or higher using a preamble corresponding to the MAC ID. If a specific access terminal has a MAC ID of 128 or higher, the preamble set includes at least one preamble with which the access terminal determines whether the MUP is received. The access node provides information on the preamble set to the access terminal during session configuration. |
| US08396011B2 |
Method and apparatus for coordinating a change in service provider between a client and a server with identity based service access management
A method of configuring a network access device connected to an access network connected to a plurality of service networks, the network device having a first network address allocated to a subscriber of services of a first service provider provided by a first service network, with a new network address allocated to a second subscriber of services of either the first service provider, or a second service provider provided by a second service network. The method comprises the steps of: sending a request from the network access device to the access network with user credentials for the second subscriber requesting access to the first service provider or a change to the second service provider; receiving a response from the access network; and initiating a network address change request using a configuration protocol. In this manner, a second network address allocated to the second subscriber of services of either the first or second service providers is assigned to the network access device to enable the network access device to communicate data packets to the service network providing the selected service. |
| US08396009B2 |
Method and apparatus for an adapter in a network device to discover its adapter name in a network system
A network system supports multiple network communication protocols. In one embodiment, network device driver software provides a “Fibre Channel over Ethernet” communication capability and methodology. Device driver software manages a Fibre Channel to Ethernet and Ethernet to Fibre Channel address translation in real time for data packet communications in the network system. Different embodiments of the disclosed network system include multiple name servers and network device driver software that together provide multiple adapter name discovery methodologies. In one embodiment, the adapter name discovery methodologies include port name discovery and adapter attributes discovery. |
| US08396008B2 |
Band control system for a digital subscriber network and band control method therefor
A band control system for a digital subscriber line network in which a first apparatus and a second apparatus situated at a subscriber station and a center, respectively, are interconnected by a cable for interchanging at least a digital data signal with each other. The system may cause one of the first apparatus or the second apparatus to monitor receipt of signals from the other of the first apparatus or the second apparatus; send, based on a result of monitoring, a band variation command to the other apparatus for causing the other apparatus to vary a band by using a frequency band not used for signal transfer; cause the other apparatus to receive the band variation command; and vary the band in accordance with the band variation command. |
| US08396007B2 |
Wireless device deployment with reliable links
The embodiments are related to deploying wireless devices in a space to maximize a monitored area. In an embodiment, the system includes at least one first wireless device installed into a first position and set in a placed mode, and a second wireless device to be installed into a second position and set in an unplaced mode. The second wireless device is moved away from the at least one first wireless device. An application message is transmitted at a normal operating power. A link quality detection message is transmitted at a reduced power lower than the operating power by a headroom. The link quality between the at least one first wireless device and the second wireless device is estimated based on the link quality detection message to determine the second position to install the second wireless device. Once installed, the second wireless device is switched to the placed mode. |
| US08396006B2 |
System and method for enabling wireless communications with cell coordination
A system and method for enabling wireless communications with cell coordination is provided. A method for communications controller operation includes transmitting a reference signal, and receiving a report from at least one communication device. The communications device is served by the communications controller, and the report includes an indicator of a preferred precoding matrix. The method also includes receiving a downlink (DL) transmission intended for the communications device, scheduling a transmission opportunity for the communications device, and transmitting the DL transmission to the communications device. The scheduling is based on the received report, and the received transmission is transmitted at an occurrence of the transmission opportunity. |
| US08396005B2 |
High-speed IP flow mediation apparatus using network processor
There is provided a high-speed IP flow mediation apparatus using a network processor. The apparatus includes a server collecting flow information regarding IP traffic on a high-speed line and a network processor board analyzing the collected information according to Internet applications using a network processor, and transferring the analyzed flow information to a plurality of flow analysis systems. |
| US08396003B2 |
Control of radio process
An apparatus controlling multiple radio processes for simultaneous operation At least one of the radio processes uses a substantially continuous transmitter. A controller is configured to determine an interference level and change parameters in the transmitter in order to reduce the interference level. Parameters controlled by the controller include the transmission frequency, modulation method, signal level and a received signal quality. |
| US08395998B2 |
ATM cell transfer apparatus with hardware structure for OAM cell generation
An ATM (asynchronous transfer mode) cell transfer apparatus includes an input interface, a switch block, and an OAM cell processing hardware block having a memory unit. The input interface receives an SDH/SONET signal on each of a plurality of first transfer paths to output an input OAM cell corresponding to the SDH/SONET signal to one of a plurality of input ports of the switch block corresponding to the first transfer path for the SDH/SONET signal to be transferred. The switch block receives the input OAM (operation and maintenance) cell from the corresponding input port as an OAM input port to output to the OAM cell processing hardware block together with a port number of the OAM input port, and receives at least one output OAM cell from the OAM cell processing hardware block to output to at least one of the plurality of output ports based on the received output OAM cell. The OAM cell processing hardware block reads out the at least one output OAM cell corresponding to the input OAM cell from the memory unit based on the input OAM cell and the port number supplied from the switch block, and outputs the at least one output OAM cell to the switch block. |
| US08395996B2 |
Techniques for processing incoming failure detection protocol packets
Techniques that assist in processing of failure detection protocol (FDP) packets. Techniques are provided that assist a CPU of a network device in processing incoming FDP packets. In one embodiment, only a subset of FDP packets received by the network device is forwarded to the CPU for processing, the other FDP packets are dropped and not forwarded to the CPU. In this manner, the amount of processing that a CPU of the network device has to perform for incoming FDP packets is reduced. This enables the network device to support newer FDPs with shorter periodic interval requirements. |
| US08395993B2 |
Video and data network load balancing with video placeholder
A network access unit includes: a source data receiver module to receive multiple first source data representing video content and second source data representing broadband data content; a network control module to generate a master schedule indicating whether each first source data is to be transmitted with one or two layers; a pre-coder module to pre-code each first source data using a first pre-coding scheme to generate a first set of representation data, and if the first source data is to be transmitted with two layers, to pre-code the first source data using a second pre-coding scheme to generate a second set of representation data; and an ACM module to associate each first set of representation data with a first coding and modulation scheme, and associate, for each first source data to be transmitted with two layers, the second set of representation data with a second coding and modulation scheme. |
| US08395992B2 |
Method and system for negotiating multiple data rate transitions on an ethernet link
An Ethernet network may comprise multi-rate link partners coupled via an Ethernet link wherein a pattern, over time, of offered data rates may be determined. Link partners may establish a communication policy for modifying transmission rates to mimic offered data rates and may vary rates accordingly. The communication control policy may be communicated between nodes via one or more of physical layer control characters, an out of band channel and higher layer protocol packets. An established communication policy may improve energy efficiency and may be dynamically modified, for example, based on link utilization. In this regard, data rates may be symmetrical or asymmetrical with respect to direction of transmission. Moreover, data rates may comprise the offered data rate plus additional bandwidth for head room and may comprise one or more of a full rate, an intermediate rate and/or a rate of zero. Rate transitions may be synchronized among network nodes. |
| US08395987B2 |
Indicating availability status of services provided by a mobile communication network
The availability of services to user equipments is increased when the UTRAN temporarily does not work properly, e.g. due to network faults or congestions. For this purpose a first communications network UTRAN (10) provides appropriate status information with regard to the availability of at least a certain range of its services and is capable to re-direct a user equipment (14) to a backup network (11) when the needed service is not available. The network (10) also provides the possibility to continue the usage of services in UTRAN that are still available even if the user equipment (14) intends to apply for a temporarily unavailable service, which the UTRAN (10) can instead arrange to be provided by the backup network (11). This is done by an information element denoting a re-direction retry indication in the RRC Connection Release message including at least the same parameters as a RRC Connection Setup Reject message. |
| US08395985B2 |
Time alignment in multicarrier OFDM network
A base station receives uplink signals from a wireless device and transmits at least one time alignment command computed based, at least in part, on timing of the received uplink signals. The time alignment command comprises a time adjustment value and an index identifying a carrier group. |
| US08395982B2 |
Objective lens for optical pickup device, optical pickup device, and optical information recording and reproducing device
Provided is an optical pickup device capable of ensuring the compatibility among three types of optical discs, i.e., BDs, DVDs, and CDs, with a common objective lens and, in addition, capable of ensuring a sufficient working distance for CDs, and also provided are an optical information recording and reproducing device and an objective lens suitable for the optical information recording and reproducing device. On the objective lens, there is arranged a first optical path difference providing structure formed such that: the direction of step differences of a basic structure wherein the diffraction order of a blue-violet laser light flux become an odd order faces toward the opposite direction of the optical axis; the direction of step differences of a basic structure wherein the diffraction order of the blue-violet laser light flux become an even order faces toward the optical axis; and both the basic structures are overlapped together. |
| US08395981B2 |
Optical pickup device in which optical part is fixedly joined to pickup case by laser irradiation
In laser welding an optical part to a pickup case of an optical pickup device, outgas deposition on a lens surface can be inhibited, and positional shifting of the optical part can be reduced. The optical part has a lens surface facing in an optical axis direction and a protruding part formed, to be joined to the pickup case, at an end portion thereof in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis. A joint surface between the protruding part and the pickup case extends in a direction parallel to the optical axis, and the joint surface is fixed by a weld portion formed by laser irradiation. The joint surface is parallel to a bottom surface of the pickup case, and the height from the bottom surface is approximately equal to the height of the center of the lens surface. |
| US08395978B2 |
Recording and/or reproducing apparatus, recording and/or reproducing method and information storage medium therefor
A recording and/or reproducing apparatus, a recording and/or reproducing method, and an information storage medium, wherein the recording and/or reproducing apparatus includes: a writing and/or reading unit writing data to or reading data from an information storage medium having one or more information recording layers; and a control unit controlling the writing and/or reading unit to write the data to the information storage medium by referring to one or more disk information structures including recording related parameter information corresponding to recording characteristics of the information storage medium, and recording characteristic information to which the recording related parameters are applied. According to the apparatus and method, parameters of recording characteristics appropriate to a recording and/or reproducing apparatus and compatibility between different specifications can be achieved. |
| US08395975B1 |
Optical read/write apparatus
In one embodiment, an optical read/write apparatus includes first and second optical pickups 2a, 2b and a control section. The first optical pickup 2a includes a first lens 3a that condenses a light beam emitted from a first light source onto an optical storage medium, and a first lens actuator that can shift the first lens 3a in a track crossing section with respect to a middle position. The second optical pickup 2b includes a second lens 3b that condenses a light beam emitted from a second light source onto the optical storage medium, and a second lens actuator that can shift the second lens 3b in the track crossing section with respect to the middle position. The control section makes the lens actuators operate so that as the magnitude of shift of the first lens 3a increases, that of the second lens 3b decreases. |
| US08395972B2 |
Thermally assisted magnetic head, head gimbal assembly, and hard disk drive
A thermally assisted magnetic head is formed by performing a head forming process, a mounting part forming process and a light source mounting process in that order. In the head forming process, a planned area is secured on a light source placing surface of a slider substrate, then a magnetic head part is formed on a head area other than the planned area and a spacer for securing a mounting space for the laser diode is formed on the planned area. In the mounting part forming process, a light source mounting part is formed by removing the spacer. In the light source mounting process, a laser diode is mounted on the light source mounting part formed by the mounting part forming step. |
| US08395971B2 |
Heat-assisted magnetic recording head with laser diode fixed to slider
A heat-assisted magnetic recording head includes a slider, an edge-emitting laser diode fixed to the slider, and an external mirror provided outside the slider. The slider includes a magnetic pole, a waveguide, a near-field light generating element, and a substrate. The substrate has a top surface facing toward the magnetic pole, the near-field light generating element and the waveguide. The slider has a top surface that lies above the top surface of the substrate, at an end of the slider farther from the top surface of the substrate. The laser diode includes: an active layer; an emitting end face that lies at an end in a direction parallel to the plane of the active layer and includes an emission part for emitting laser light; and a bottom surface that lies at an end in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the active layer. The laser diode is arranged so that the bottom surface faces the top surface of the slider. The external mirror reflects the laser light emitted from the emission part toward the waveguide. |
| US08395970B2 |
Timepiece with a striking work fitted with a gong
The striking work device of a timepiece (1) includes a gong (2) surrounding a movement and extending in approximately one plane (x, y), and a gong-carrier (3) secured to a watch plate (8). The gong is fixed to the gong-carrier. At least one hammer (5) strikes the gong (2) to cause the gong to vibrate. The hammer (5) strikes the gong at an inclined incidence relative to the plane. |
| US08395969B2 |
Virtual real-time clock based on time information from multiple communication systems
Method and apparatus to implement a “virtual” real-time clock at a terminal based on time information from multiple communication systems. At least one system (e.g., GPS) provides “absolute” time information for the virtual real-time clock, and at least one other system (e.g., a cellular system) provides “relative” time information. The virtual real-time clock is “time-stamped” with absolute time as it becomes available from the first system. Relative time (which may be received from multiple asynchronous transmitters) is mapped to the timeline of the virtual real-time clock as it is received from the second system. Absolute time at any arbitrary time instant on the timeline may then be estimated based on the absolute time from the first system and the relative time from the second system. Absolute times from the first system for two or more time instants may also be used to calibrate the relative time from the second system. |
| US08395968B2 |
Providing indoor location, position, or tracking of a mobile computer using building information
Providing indoor location, position, or tracking of a mobile computer using building information is disclosed. The mobile computer determines the dimensions of a room in a building using range determination or a range finder in the mobile computer. The determined dimensions of the room are compared to the building information to locate, position, or track the mobile computer in the building. |
| US08395967B2 |
Vector migration of virtual source VSP data
A walkaway VSP survey is carried out with receivers located in a borehole under a salt overhang. Redatuming of the multicomponent data to virtual sources in the borehole followed by vector Kirchhoff migration using a simple velocity model provides an accurate image of the salt face. |
| US08395952B2 |
Semiconductor memory device with a skew signal generator for adjusting a delay interval of internal circuitry
A skew signal generator is provided which comprises a fuse signal generating unit for generating a plurality of fuse signals, and an encoder for generating skew signals including skew information of a wafer by encoding the fuse signals. |
| US08395948B2 |
Program cycle skip
A non-volatile storage system includes technology for skipping programming cycles while programming a page (or other unit) of data. While programming a current subset of the page (or other unit) of data, the system will evaluate whether the next subsets of the page (or other unit) of data should be programmed into non-volatile storage elements or skipped. Subsets of the page (or other unit) of data that should not be skipped are programmed into non-volatile storage elements. Some embodiments include transferring the appropriate data to temporary latches/registers, in preparation for programming, concurrently with the evaluation of whether to program or skip the programming. |
| US08395945B2 |
Variable initial program voltage magnitude for non-volatile storage
Multiple programming processes are performed for a plurality of non-volatile storage elements. Each of the programming process operates to program at least a subset of said non-volatile storage elements to a set of target conditions using program pulses. In one embodiment, a first programming pass includes soft programming and additional programming passes include the programming of data. In another embodiment, all of the programming process includes programming data. For at least a subset of said programming processes, a program pulse associated with achieving a particular result for a respective programming process is identified. The identified program pulse is used to adjust programming for a subsequent programming process. |
| US08395944B2 |
Method of operating semiconductor memory device
A semiconductor memory device is operated by reading data stored in LSB and MSB pages of a first word line in response to a read command and storing the read data in first and second latches of a page buffer, outputting the data stored in the first latch externally and transferring the data, stored in the second latch, to a third latch of the page buffer, resetting the first and second latches, reading data stored in LSB and MSB pages of a second word line, and storing the read data in the first and second latches, and sequentially outputting the data stored in the first latch and the data stored in the third latch, resetting the third latch, and then transferring the data stored in the second latch to the third latch. |
| US08395943B2 |
Flash memory device and set-up data initialization method
A flash memory device includes a memory cell array having a set-up data region configured to store set-up data, wherein the set-up data includes first data and second data. The second data is stored in an empty cell area of the set-up data region. The flash memory also includes a page buffer and decoder configured to read the set-up data from the set-up data region, and a status detector receiving the set-up data from the page buffer and decoder and configured to discriminate the first data from the second data and generate a Pass/Fail status signal. |
| US08395939B2 |
Compensation of back pattern effect in a memory device
In one or more of the disclosed embodiments, a read operation is compensated for back pattern effect. A bit line current is generated by a read operation that biases the word lines. As part of a back pattern effect measurement phase, at predetermined time intervals an indication of the discharge status of the bit line is stored in a latch of a set of N latches coupled to each bit line. At the end of the measurement phase, the set of latches contains a multiple bit word that is an indication of the back pattern effect experienced by that particular series string of memory cells. This back pattern effect indication is used in subsequent read operations to adjust the timing of the operation. |
| US08395937B2 |
Integrated circuit including memory array having a segmented bit line architecture and method of controlling and/or operating same
An integrated circuit device (e.g., a logic device or a memory device) having a memory cell array including a plurality of bit lines (e.g., first and second bit lines) and a plurality of bit line segments (e.g., first and second bit line segments) wherein each bit line segment is selectively and responsively coupled to or decoupled from its associated bit line via an associated isolation circuit. The memory cell array further includes a plurality of memory cells, wherein each memory cell includes a transistor having a first region, a second region, a body region, and a gate coupled to an associated word line via an associated word line segment. A first group of memory cells is coupled to the first bit line via the first bit line segment and a second group of memory cells is coupled to the second bit line via the second bit line segment. A plurality of isolation circuits, disposed between each bit line segment and its associated bit line, to responsively couple the associated bit line segment to or disconnect the associated bit line segment from the associated bit line. |
| US08395934B2 |
Phase-change memory device
A phase-change memory device includes: a cell array including at least one unit cell; a current sensing unit sensing data stored in the at least one unit cell; and a power generation circuit supplying a power source voltage to the current sensing unit, in which the power generation circuit is activated while the current sensing unit is performing a sensing operation. |
| US08395930B2 |
Method of programming variable resistance element and nonvolatile storage device
A method includes applying a first polarity writing voltage pulse to a metal oxide layer to change its resistance state from high to low into a write state, applying a second polarity erasing voltage pulse different from the first polarity to the metal oxide layer to change its resistance state from low to high into an erase state, and applying an initial voltage pulse having the second polarity to the metal oxide layer before first application of the writing voltage pulse, to change an initial resistance value of the metal oxide layer. R0>RH>RL and |V0|>|Ve|≧|Vw| are satisfied where R0, RL, and RH are the resistance values of the initial, write, and erase states, respectively, of the metal oxide layer, and V0, Vw, and Ve are voltage values of the initial, writing, and erasing voltage pulses, respectively. |
| US08395925B2 |
Forming method for variable resistance nonvolatile memory element, and variable resistance nonvolatile memory device
An optimum forming method of performing a forming for a variable resistance element to maximize an operation window of the variable resistance element is provided. The forming method is used to initialize a variable resistance element (100). The forming method includes: a determination step (S35) of determining whether or not a current resistance value of the variable resistance element (100) is lower than a resistance value in a high resistance state; and a voltage application step (S36) of applying a voltage pulse having a voltage not exceeding a sum of a forming voltage and a forming margin when the determination is made that the current resistance value is not lower than the resistance value in the high resistance state (No at S35). The determination step (S35) and the voltage application step (S36) are repeated to process all memory cells in a memory array (202) (S34 to S37). |
| US08395924B2 |
Non-volatile memory device and method for programming the same
A non-volatile memory device and a method for programming the same are disclosed. The method for programming the non-volatile memory device includes generating a simultaneous write current based on a program address in such a manner that bit line write cells corresponding to memory cells coupled to the same bit line from among memory cells to be programmed can be simultaneously programmed, and providing the simultaneous write current to the bit line write cells by simultaneously enabling the bit line write cells. |
| US08395923B2 |
Antifuse programmable memory array
Techniques and circuitry are disclosed for efficiently implementing programmable memory array circuit architectures, such as PROM, OTPROM, and other such programmable non-volatile memories. The circuitry employs an antifuse scheme that includes an array of memory bitcells, each containing a program device and an antifuse element configured with current path isolation well and for storing the memory cell state. The bitcell configuration, which can be used in conjunction with column/row select circuitry, power selector circuitry, and/or readout circuitry, allows for high-density memory array circuit designs and layouts. |
| US08395922B2 |
Semiconductor memory device
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor memory device includes a memory cell array, a first sense amplifier circuit, and a second sense amplifier circuit. The memory cell array includes a plurality of first memory cell units, a plurality of second memory cell units, a plurality of first interconnects, and a plurality of second interconnects. The first sense amplifier circuit is connected to the plurality of first interconnects. The second sense amplifier circuit is connected to the plurality of second interconnects. Heights of upper surfaces of interconnects are equal. At least one of a width of each of the plurality of second interconnects along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction and a thickness of each of the plurality of second interconnects along a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is set smaller than each of the plurality of first interconnects, and the first sense amplifier circuit and the second sense amplifier circuit are disposed to face each other across the memory cell array. |
| US08395921B2 |
Memory system having improved signal integrity
A memory system having improved signal integrity includes a printed circuit board for use in a memory device, N memory semiconductor packages mounted on the printed circuit board, a first switch mounted on the printed circuit board, a controller mounted on the printed circuit board, N first signal lines connecting the semiconductor packages to the first switch such that the semiconductor packages and the first switch are in an N-to-1 correspondence, a second signal line connecting the first switch to the controller, and N selection lines connecting the semiconductor packages to the first switch such that the semiconductor packages and the first switch are in an N-to-1 correspondence. The N selection lines connect the semiconductor packages to the controller and transmit an enable signal. N is a natural number. |
| US08395920B2 |
Content addressable memory design
A static CAM includes a plurality of entries E each including a number of CAM cells B and a summary S. Each CAM cell B is associated with a memory cell M and a comparator C. Generally, the CAM receives as input i number of lookup data lines. When data is received, memory cells M provide compared data for corresponding comparators C in CAM cells B to compare the compared data to the received data. If all compared data match all received data lines for an entry, then there is a hit for that entry. But if any compared data does not match the corresponding data line, then there is a miss for that line and therefore a miss for that entry. Depending on applications, the CAM returns an address if there is a hit for one or a plurality of entries. |
| US08395918B2 |
Method of and apparatus for controlling three-level converter using command values
Controlled by switching is which reactor in a reactor group present between a power source and a three-level converter is to be connected to an intermediate point that outputs a midpoint potential. In the switching, the closer to the command value of the midpoint potential the command values of input potentials of the converter are, the greater the duty at which corresponding reactors are connected to the intermediate point is for pulse width modulation. Additionally, a predetermined range to be compared with the command values has a predetermined potential width with respect to an AC waveform centered around the command value of the midpoint potential. |
| US08395917B2 |
Redundant parallel non-isolated input converters
A redundant AC-DC power supply system and method is disclosed. A first AC-DC power converter is configured to generate a first output voltage and a first relay is configured to selectively couple and decouple the first AC-DC power converter to an output of an output circuit. A second AC-DC power converter is configured to generate a second output voltage. A second relay is configured to selectively couple and decouple the second AC-DC power converter to the output. A controller is configured to operate the first and second AC-DC power converters and the first and second relays to provide redundant sources of power for the output and to mitigate circulating current flow between the first and second AC-DC power converters. |
| US08395915B2 |
DC/DC converter
Provided is a DC/DC converter including a power supply unit that includes a transformer having one primary side and a plurality of secondary sides and outputs a plurality of driving voltages for driving a load; and a constant current converting unit that is connected to one secondary side and a low-voltage stage of another secondary side adjacent to the one secondary side among the plurality of secondary sides of the transformer and boosts a driving voltage output from the one secondary side. |
| US08395913B2 |
Method and device of electrical power
A power factor correction of three-phase boost-type conversion is disclosed. Embodiments comprising multi-leg autotransformers are disclosed, e.g. comprising 3-phase low-pass filtering impedances such as capacitors between an input of a converter and a midpoint of the output. |
| US08395912B2 |
Resonant switching power supply device which suppresses a switching frequency raised at the time of light load
The resonant switching power supply device is equipped with switching elements QH and QL connected in series to an input direct-current power source Vin, a transformer T1 having secondary windings S1 and S2 and a primary winding P1, a resonant circuit where the primary winding P1 and a current resonant capacitor Cri are connected in series and which is connected in parallel to any one of the switching elements, and a rectifying circuit (D1+D2+Co) connected to the secondary winding to obtain an output voltage Vo; the transformer T1 is equipped with a primary winding P2 closely coupled to the primary winding P1, one terminal of the primary winding P2 is connected to one or the other terminal of the primary winding P1. By the other terminal is an open circuit at any time, it suppresses the switching frequency raised at the time of light load. |
| US08395910B2 |
Buck-boost power converter circuits, methods and systems
Methods and systems for transforming electric power between two or more portals. Any or all portals can be DC, single phase AC, or multi-phase AC. Conversion is accomplished by a plurality of bi-directional conducting and blocking semiconductor switches which alternately connect an inductor and parallel capacitor between said portals, such that energy is transferred into the inductor from one or more input portals and/or phases, then the energy is transferred out of the inductor to one or more output portals and/or phases, with said parallel capacitor facilitating “soft” turn-off, and with any excess inductor energy being returned back to the input. Soft turn-on and reverse recovery is also facilitated. Said bi-directional switches allow for two power transfers per inductor/capacitor cycle, thereby maximizing inductor/capacitor utilization as well as providing for optimum converter operation with high input/output voltage ratios. Control means coordinate the switches to accomplish the desired power transfers. |
| US08395903B1 |
Interconnect pattern for semiconductor packaging
An interconnect array uses repeated application of an interconnect pattern (“tile”). The tile has eight I/O signal pins forming a perimeter array, a central pin that can be either a ground pin or an I/O power pin, and an offset ground pin. The I/O signal pins are associated with the same or multiple I/O banks. If the central pin is an I/O power pin, it is optionally associated with an I/O bank associated with one or more of the I/O signal pins. |
| US08395892B2 |
Air duct and computer system with the air duct
An air duct includes a top panel and a blocking member rotatable secured to the top panel. A through hole is defined in the top panel, and a pair of clipping portions are located an edge of the through hole. The blocking member includes an operating portion and a blocking portion connected to the operating portion. The operating portion is located on an outside of the top panel, and the blocking portion is located on an inside of the top panel. The operating portion of the blocking member is passed through a bottom surface of the top panel through the through hole, extends to a top surface of the top panel, and engaged with the pair of clipping portions. |
| US08395890B2 |
All-in-one computer
A computer includes an enclosure, and a mainframe module enclosed in the enclosure. The mainframe module includes a base board defining a motherboard, a plurality of drive devices, a heat sink device and a fan thereon. The heat sink device includes a heat sink having a plurality of fins and a heat pipe. The base board is divided into a first part and a second part. The motherboard is located in the first part, and the drive devices are located in the second part. The fan is located between the first and second parts. The heat pipe transmits heat from a heat source on the motherboard to the plurality of fins. The fan blows air to the plurality of fins to cool the heat source on the motherboard. |
| US08395888B2 |
Information-processing apparatus
A laptop computer includes: a substantially rectangular first chassis accommodating a display section; a substantially rectangular second chassis accommodating an operation control section; and a hinge mechanism coupling one side of the second chassis and one side of the first chassis. Another side parallel to the one side of the first chassis is configured so that only its widthwise central portion in parallel to the one side lays side-by-side to form a substantially flat face with another side of the second chassis when the chassis are closed together. The other side of the first chassis is configured, in a planar view, so that the more it departs from the central portion toward an edge portion in the widthwise direction, the more it comes closer to the one side of the first chassis than to the other side of the second chassis when the chassis are closed together. |
| US08395887B2 |
Cover mechanism and electronic device using same
A cover mechanism is for protecting an interface of an electronic device. The cover mechanism includes a housing and a protective cover. The housing forms an extending plate. The protective cover includes a plug and a latching post. The plug is for covering the interface, and the latching post is rotatably attached to the extending plate. |
| US08395883B2 |
Trapped-key-based locking system for docking station
Embodiments of the present invention provide a docking station that prevents electrical cables (e.g., from a portable power generator or other temporary power source) from even being connected to connectors in the interior of the docking station while the building's electrical system (or other electrical load) is in electrical communication with the utility. The docking station can include a cabinet with two doors that swing in different directions and a locking mechanism that regulates the opening and closing of those doors. In preferred embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a trapped-key lock. Embodiments of the present invention can be used in applications other than docking stations. |
| US08395881B2 |
Multilayer feedthrough capacitor and mounted structure of multilayer feedthrough capacitor
A multilayer feedthrough capacitor has a capacitor element body of a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, a signal internal electrode, a ground internal electrode, first and second signal terminal electrodes, and a first ground terminal electrode. The capacitor element body includes first and second end faces opposed in a longitudinal direction thereof, and a mounting surface perpendicular to a direction in which a plurality of insulator layers are laminated. The first signal terminal electrode and the first ground terminal electrode are arranged in proximity to each other in a first region near the first end face in the mounting surface. The second signal terminal electrode is arranged in a second region near the second end face in the mounting surface. No conductor is arranged in a third region between the first region and the second region in the longitudinal direction of the capacitor element body, in the mounting surface. |
| US08395863B2 |
Laminated contact pad for a transducer head
A contact pad includes a first layer of material with a first yield strength and a second layer of material with a second yield strength is laminated to the first layer. A third yield strength of the laminated composite of the first layer and the second layer exceeds the first yield strength and the second yield strength due to the Hall-Petch phenomenon. An overcoat covers an edge of the first layer and the second layer of the contact pad to prevent wear. A method of creating the contact pad or other microelectronic structure includes depositing a first layer of material with a first yield strength on a substrate. A second layer of material with a second yield strength is deposited on the first layer. An edge of the first layer and the second layer is coated with an overcoat material to prevent wear of the first and second layers. |
| US08395862B2 |
Disk drive device with motor coil wiring arrangement to reduce thickness and suppressed torque decrease
The disk drive device includes a base member, a hub, a bearing unit which is arranged on the base member and which rotatably supports the hub, and a spindle drive unit which drives the hub to rotate. The spindle drive unit includes a stator core having a salient pole, a coil wound around the salient pole and a magnet opposed to the salient pole. The hub formed of magnetic material includes an outer cylinder portion engaged with an inner circumference of a recording disk and an inner cylinder portion to which an outer circumference of the magnet is fixed. The base member having a wire hole through which a wire from the coil passes, and a concavity that is formed at a bottom surface of the base member wherein the wire passes through the wire hole along a bottom face of the base member to a wiring member at the concavity. |
| US08395859B2 |
Method of detecting touchdown of magnetic head using timestamps, and magnetic disk drive to which the method is applied
According to one embodiment, a method of detecting contact of a magnetic head with a magnetic disk by changing the dynamic flying height of the magnetic head in a magnetic disk drive is disclosed. The method can change control of a spindle motor configured to rotate the magnetic disk, from feedback control to open loop control. The method can detect a change in rotational speed of the magnetic disk during the open loop control. The method can detect contact of the magnetic head with the magnetic disk based on the detected change in the rotational speed. |
| US08395858B1 |
Methods and apparatus for performing interpolated timing recovery
Methods and apparatus are provided for performing interpolated timing recovery using a frequency and phase estimate. An analog signal representing a sector is asynchronously sampled and stored in a storage device. A retiming circuit reads the stored samples and, based on first portions of first and second timing portions of the sector, determines phase adjustments. The retiming circuit generates a signal representing the samples at the adjusted phase and determines sample shift adjustments based on the generated signal and second portions of the first and second timing portions. The retiming circuit computes start and end indices of the sector in the buffer based on the sample shift adjustment and phase adjustment. The start and end indices may be used to compute a frequency estimate. The frequency estimate and a phase adjustment is used to interpolate the asynchronous samples at the appropriate frequency and phase. |
| US08395856B2 |
Servo pattern erasing method and apparatus of hard disk drive
A method of erasing a servo pattern of a hard disk drive includes reading a servo pattern recorded on a disk, generating an erase pattern to erase the servo pattern based on the servo pattern obtained in the reading of the servo pattern, and erasing the servo pattern by using the erase pattern while the disk is rotated. The servo pattern recorded on the hard disk drive may be uniformly erased. Also, a stabilization time to stabilize a read/write head after the position control of the read/write head that is needed when a servo writer is used may be avoided so that a time to erase a servo pattern may be reduced. |
| US08395854B2 |
Imaging optical system and imaging apparatus
An imaging optical system, including an imaging lens group, an image side prism having an entrance surface a reflection surface and an exit surface from which light exits toward an image pickup device, and a first shielding member shielding at least a part of a region on the entrance surface, wherein the region on the entrance surface is located from an edge line of an apex between the entrance surface and the exit surface to a position corresponding to a height h from the edge line, and when L represents a length of the exit surface, α represents an angle formed between the reflection surface and the exit surface, n represents a refractive index of a surrounding area of the image side prism, and n′ represents a refractive index of the image side prism, the height h satisfies a following condition: h=L×cos {α+sin−1(n/n′)}. |
| US08395849B2 |
Imaging lens, optical apparatus equipped with imaging lens and method for manufacturing imaging lens
An imaging lens SL mounted in a single lens reflex digital camera 1 is composed of, in order from an object side, a first lens group G1 having negative refractive power, a second lens group G2 having positive refractive power, and a third lens group G3 having negative refractive power. Upon focusing on a near-distance object from an infinitely distant object, a configuration is that at least any one of the first lens group G1 and the second lens group G2 is moved to the object side to vary a distance between the first lens group G1 and the second lens group G2. Accordingly, a downsized imaging lens having a small moving amount upon shooting a close range object, in which various aberrations are well corrected is provided. |