| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US08469627B2 |
Apparatuses, systems and methods for selectively affecting movement of a motor vehicle
A non-lethal vehicle device provides for the selective, remotely-deployed controlled stop of a targeted vehicle regardless of wheel or undercarriage configuration. The device is comprised of a combination of a remote arm/safe mechanism, a remote deployment controller, spike/snare deployment mechanism(s), a “speed bump” type housing that can protrude (be driven over until deployed) or be submerged, and one or more snares with a plurality of spikes. A combination of sensors may provide independent deployment once armed. |
| US08469625B2 |
Water permeable traffic bearing system, method and drainage joint for use with same
Making a water permeable traffic bearing system includes preparing a compound water permeable base in contact with a native substrate, and installing a drainage system having a plurality of elongate drainage joints over the prepared water permeable base. Each of the drainage joints defines a plurality of vertical drainage conduits opening at upper and lower sides and in fluid communication with a storage volume defined by the water permeable base. Making the water permeable traffic bearing system further includes forming a segmental mat having a plurality of water impermeable surface pads abutting the plurality of drainage joints, at least in part by filling voids extending horizontally between the drainage joints with a curable paving material, and curing the paving material within the voids, in contact with each of the water permeable base and the drainage joints. Installing the drainage system further includes tuning precipitation handling of the traffic bearing system, at least in part by setting a spacing and a number of the drainage joints responsive to, a water throughput factor of the traffic bearing system and a structural factor of the segmental mat. The drainage joints may have upwardly and downwardly oriented legs joined via a bridge in an H-configuration. |
| US08469616B2 |
Printer with cutter
A printing device has a print head, a platen roller, a main body frame supporting one of the print head and the platen roller, and a main body unit incorporating the main body frame. A sheet cutting device includes a first blade undergoing sliding movement relative to a second blade in a direction substantially orthogonal to a sheet material to be cut. A first frame slidably supports the first blade and undergoes movement in a direction orthogonal to a sliding direction of the first blade from a first position at which the first blade frame is incorporated to the main body frame to a second position at which the first blade frame is separated from the main body frame. A second frame supports the second blade and undergoes movement in the sliding direction of the first blade from a first position at which the second blade frame is mounted to the main body unit to a second position at which the second blade frame is detached from the main body unit. The first and second blades undergo movement in directions orthogonal to each other during movement of the first and second blade frames to the respective second positions to release a contact pressure between the first and second blades. |
| US08469615B2 |
Cassette for use in a label printer
A label printer cassette including a supply of print medium a housing configured to house said print medium. The housing has first and second surfaces and a least one side extending between said first and second surface. A cover is provided on one of the sides movable along the length of that one side between a first position in which the print medium is exposed for printing and a second position in which the print medium is protected. |
| US08469612B2 |
Imaging device and plate spring
Disclosed herein is an imaging device including: a lens case on which a lens is installed; a columnar member having a central axis coincidental with a rotational axis of the lens case and formed on a lateral surface of the lens case, the rotational axis extending in a tilt direction being an in-plane direction perpendicular to a horizontal direction; a base supporting the lens case so as to be turnable in the tilt direction; and a plate spring secured to the base and pressing a circumferential surface of the columnar member toward the base by elastic force. |
| US08469609B2 |
Optical transceiver having effective heat dissipating path from OSA to cover
A heat transferring mechanism of an optical transceiver is disclosed. The optical transceiver includes a metal cover, a OSA that generate heat, and a heat conductor. The OSA has the heat transferring surface extending to a direction intersecting, or substantially in perpendicular, to the longitudinal direction of the optical transceiver. The heat conductor, which is formed only by cutting and bending of metal plate, includes a contact plate and the transfer plate in thermally contact to a heat transferring surface of the OSA and an inner surface of the metal cover to form an effective heat transferring path from the OSA to the cover. |
| US08469607B2 |
Opto-electronics with compliant electrical contacts
Methods and apparatus are provided related to opto-electronics. An opto-electronic subassembly includes electrical contacts bonded to a base by way of a compliant adhesive. The opto-electronic subassembly is mechanically engaged to a circuit board resulting in contact force loading of the compliant adhesive. Such loading maintains electrical coupling between the electrical contacts and respective circuit pathways of the circuit board. Optical signal communication between the opto-electronic subassembly and another entity is performed by way of an optical connector. |
| US08469606B2 |
Optoelectronic interconnection system
An optoelectronic interconnection system is for use in optical communications. The optoelectronic interconnection system may include a substrate having a main portion and a foldable portion formed on a substrate of a board for positioning an optically active device connected to the foldable portion. The foldable portion is adapted to be folded with respect to the main portion into a desired optical coupling orientation for which an optical operative axis (OA) of the optically active device arranged therein is substantially aligned with an optical transmission axis (TT′) that is other than perpendicular to the main portion. A holding fixture holds the foldable portion in the desired optical coupling orientation. |
| US08469603B2 |
Mating of optical fibers having angled end faces
A method for mating optical fibers, a fiber optic connector, and a fiber optic subassembly are provided in which mating fibers have angled end faces joined by index matching fluid, but in which the angled end faces of the fibers are positioned relative to one another in rotationally misaligned relationship. Applicants discovered unexpectedly that optical fibers can be spliced, to provide satisfactory optical connections, without the need for matched cleaves, and without the need for precise rotational alignment of the cleaves, provided that angled end faces are provided on both the launch and receive fibers and that index matching gel is provided between the angled end faces. Thus, the fibers are mated in positions other than in the precise rotationally aligned position previously believed essential to adequate optical performance. Angled end faces may be positioned less than 165 degrees out of phase. |
| US08469592B2 |
Tactile enhancement mechanism for a closure mechanism
A pouch including a first sidewall. A second sidewall connects to the first side sidewall so as to form an interior of the pouch with an opening to the interior. A closure mechanism extends along an interior surface of the first sidewall for sealing the opening. The closure mechanism extends from one end of the opening to an opposite end of the opening. A first tactile strip is disposed on an exterior surface of the first sidewall and is spaced above the closure mechanism. A second tactile strip is disposed on the exterior surface of the first sidewall and is spaced below the closure mechanism. An exterior surface of at least one of the first tactile strip and the second tactile strip is provided with a texture, with the texture including a plurality of openings that open into the exterior surface. A smooth region is formed on the exterior surface of the first sidewall. The smooth region is disposed opposite to the closure mechanism and extends between the first and second tactile strips. |
| US08469585B2 |
In-line multi-chamber mixer
The present invention is directed to an in-line mixer for mixing a plurality of fluids to produce a mixed product. The mixer includes one or more mixing chambers, an impeller in each of the mixing chambers, one or more inlets coupled to injection valves for conveying the fluids into the mixing chamber, and an outlet for conveying the mixed product out of the mixing chamber. The in-line mixer is well suited to components, such as those used in making automotive OEM and refinish paints. |
| US08469582B2 |
Back frame and backlight system
The present invention provides a back frame, which includes at least first and second primary assembling pieces. The at least two primary assembling pieces are joined to form a main frame structure of the back frame. The back frame further includes secondary assembling pieces that are arranged inside the main frame structure. The secondary assembling pieces are joined to the main frame structure. The primary assembling pieces and/or the secondary assembling pieces form bumps, and the bumps support a light homogenization mechanism. The present invention also provides a backlight system. The present invention uses bumps formed on the primary assembling pieces and/or the secondary assembling pieces to have the back frame firmly support the light homogenization mechanism and making the structure of backlight system more stable. |
| US08469581B2 |
Backlight unit
To provide a backlight having a positioning member that can prevent from coming off from metal frame and damaging a display panel even when used in a harsh environment such as undergoing sharp temperature changes.A backlight unit comprises a light guiding module having a light source and a light guide plate; a resin frame having a recess formed by side walls and bottom surface thereof, and housing the light guiding module; and a metal frame fitted with the resin frame, having an opening in an upper surface thereof and the opening being located above the recess of the resin frame, and allowing to pass light from the light guiding module therethrough. The resin frame has a protrusion on the top surface of one of the side walls of the recess. The metal frame has a notch on the upper surface thereof so that the protrusion passes therethrough. The opening allows the light from the light guiding module to pass therethrough. |
| US08469578B2 |
Optical element having at least one embedded reflector
An optical element includes a first optical member with at least one indentation at a first surface thereof, and a second optical member attached to the first surface. The second optical member conforms to the at least one indentation in the first optical member. The optical element further includes at least one reflector at an interface between the first and second optical members, where the at least one reflector is located at the at least one indentation. The reflector is formed by an interface between a cavity formed between the first and second optical members and at least one of the first and second optical members. |
| US08469576B2 |
Light source and display device having the same
A light source and a display device having the same are provided. The light source may include light guide plates arranged in rows and columns, light emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned below the light guide plates to direct light toward lateral surfaces of the light guide plates, and module substrates that support and provide power to the LEDs. Each of the light guide plates may include a first region divided into a plurality of second regions. LEDs corresponding to each of the second regions may be operated as a unit and independently from other regions. |
| US08469571B2 |
Light guide and housing assembly
A single piece light guide is disclosed herein. The single piece light guide may include a light rod and a lens. The single piece light guide may be formed using injection molding. The light guide may have one or more regions between the light rod and the lens. A housing may be provided for the light guide. The housing may have an opening that physically supports the light rod. Therefore, the light rod may be secured into place, which may prevent misalignment during use. The one or more regions between the light rod and the lens may assist in assembling and holding the light guide in the housing. |
| US08469570B2 |
Vehicle headlight
The vehicle head light is provided with a heat radiating member including a pillar member provided to extend from a bottom wall of a housing, on which a light source is mounted, a heat radiating fins fixed radially to the outer periphery of the pillar member, and a guide wall provided surrounding sides of the heat radiating fins. The guide wall is sloped with respect to bottom wall of the housing so that spaces each formed by adjacent two of the heat radiating fins and the guide wall become narrower with increasing distance from the lower end of the guide wall. The guide wall is formed with slits to make air communication between the light chamber and each of the spaces, the slits being shaped to be narrower with increasing distance from the lower end of the guide wall. |
| US08469566B2 |
Vehicle headlight structure
A vehicle headlight includes a cover and a housing, which receive therein a primary light source unit mounted to a bulb seat of the housing and a position light unit mounted to a position light seat of the housing. The housing forms a first water barrier wall above the bulb seat and also forms a second water barrier wall above the position light and the position light seat. The second water barrier wall is arranged between the first water barrier wall and an adjustment mechanism and located exactly below the first water barrier wall. The adjustment mechanism is secured to the housing and located below the second water barrier wall. The first and second water barrier walls help prevent external water from eroding the primary light source unit and the position light unit, and the adjustment mechanism facilitates adjustment of elevation angle of the headlight. |
| US08469565B2 |
Vehicle light including multi-focal lens and plurality of lighting elements
A vehicle light includes a multi-focal lens that has a mid-level lens portion, an upper-level lens portion, and lower-level lens portion, a separator plate with a front edge positioned at or near the focal point of the mid-level lens portion, and a plurality of light emitting elements mounted on the top and bottom of the separator plate, respectively. A first elliptical reflecting surface whose first focal point is set at or near the first light emitting element and whose second focal point is set at or near the focal point of the mid-level lens portion is provided on the top of the separator plate; a second elliptical reflecting surface is provided on the bottom of the separator plate, with a first focal point set at or near the second light emitting element and the second focal point set at or near the focal point of the upper-level lens portion. |
| US08469561B2 |
Road-adaptive headlight for motorcycles
A road-adaptive headlight for motorcycles includes a curved base plate having a left curved portion divided from top to bottom into a left-banking lighting zone and a left-crossing lighting zone, a right curved portion divided from top to bottom into a right-banking lighting zone and a right-crossing lighting zone, and a middle curved portion divided from top to bottom into a high-speed lighting zone, a main lighting zone and a horizontal lighting zone. LED light sources are provided in each of the above-mentioned zones. A power source assembly drives the base plate to incline upward or downward and to turn clockwise or counterclockwise. A controller is electrically connected to the LED light sources and the power source assembly for controlling the operation thereof. Thus, different headlight beam patterns can be quickly and flexibly produced under control to ensure increased road visibility and motorcycle riding safety. |
| US08469559B2 |
Edge-lit lighting product
An edge-lit lighting product or luminaire includes a light guide made of a single, transparent material and demonstrates properties of total internal reflection with respect to a surrounding environment. The light guide has a thickness and includes a proximal edge, a distal edge and a boundary surface. The proximal edge receives light from a light source. The distal edge is spaced apart from the proximal edge, is configured to emit at least a portion of the light from the light source, spans across a first distance and has a substantially axial symmetric surface. The first distance is greater than the thickness of the light guide. The boundary surface extends between the proximal edge and the distal edge and defines a boundary between the single, transparent material of the light guide and the surrounding environment of the light guide. At least a portion of the boundary surface is curved. |
| US08469554B2 |
Illuminating lens, lighting device, surface light source, and liquid-crystal display apparatus
An illuminating lens includes a light entrance surface, a light exit surface, and a reversing surface. The light exit surface has a first light exit surface and a second light exit surface. The first light exit surface is recessed toward a point on the optical axis, and the second light exit surface extends outwardly from the periphery of the first light exit surface. The first light exit surface includes a transmissive region in the center thereof and a total reflection region on the peripheral side thereof. The reversing surface has a shape such that the light that has been emitted from the light source, totally reflected repeatedly at the light exit surface, and then reached the reversing surface is guided to the first light exit surface by total reflection. |
| US08469551B2 |
Light extraction films for increasing pixelated OLED output with reduced blur
Optical films for enhancing light extraction from self-emissive pixelated OLEDs, without introducing significant pixel blur, are disclosed. The extraction films include a flexible carrier film, and a first and second layer carried by the carrier film. The first layer has a nanovoided morphology, includes a polymer binder, and may have a refractive index less than 1.35 or 1.3. An embedded structured surface of light extraction elements is formed between the first and second layers. The extraction film includes a major coupling surface for attachment to an outer surface of the light source. The film is configured such that a land portion between the structured surface and the major coupling surface is thinner than a specified amount, e.g., less than 50, 25, or 10 microns, or less than a thickness of the carrier film. |
| US08469550B2 |
Optical sky-sun diffuser
An embodiment of a solid optical sky-sun diffuser, which comprises a transparent solid matrix embedding a dispersion of transparent nanoparticles having an average size d in the range 10 nm≦d≦240 nm; wherein: the ratio between the blue and red scattering optical densities γ≡Log [T(450 nm)]/Log [T(630 nm)] of said diffuser falls in the range 5≧γ≧2.5, where T(λ) is the Monochromatic Normalized Collinear Transmittance; in at least one propagation direction, said Monochromatic Normalized Collinear Transmittance is T(450 nm)≧0.4; in at least one propagation direction said Monochromatic Normalized Collinear Transmittance is T(450 nm)≦0.9, said propagation direction being the same or different from that at which said Monochromatic Normalized Collinear Transmittance is T(450 mm)≧0.4. |
| US08469547B2 |
Lighting system with programmable temporal and spatial spectral distributions
Systems and methods permit use of efficient solid state emitters for broad spectrum continuous spectrum lighting defined by illumination data. The illumination data, which can be sold as a commercial product, can be recorded or authored and include spectral, temporal, and spatial information. Intensities of individual emitters such as LEDs can be controlled through a combination of pulse width modulation (PWM) and amplitude modulation (AM) of drive currents. The combination of PWM and AM permits fine tuning of the spectrum of emissions and creation of free space optical data channels. |
| US08469544B2 |
Multiple optical assembly for a LED lighting device, and LED lighting device comprising such an optical assembly
A LED light device has a number of LED's, a multiple optical assembly defined by a number of modular units; each modular unit has a total internal reflection lens associated with a LED; and the modular units are connected to one another so as the lenses have respective distinct optical reflecting surfaces. |
| US08469539B2 |
Solar powered table lighting
There is provided a self-contained solar module for a table comprising a transparent or translucent table top. The self-contained solar module comprises a solar panel for generating electrical energy; a power store for storing the generated electrical energy; and conductors for supplying the generated electrical energy to at least one lamp for lighting the transparent or translucent table top. The self-contained solar module may be removably attachable to the table, and/or the at least one lamp may be positioned on the self-contained solar module to be in a plane that is between the plane of the upper surface of the table top and the plane of the lower surface of the table top when the self-contained solar module is attached to the table. |
| US08469538B2 |
Inflatable decorative structure with a light system and a diffusing member
The bladder assembly includes a bladder, which includes a seal or passage for dispensing and removing media to inflate the bladder. The bladder includes a housing for holding media and for storing and protecting the light system, and a diffusing mechanism for diffusing and distributing light emitted from the light system throughout the bladder. The diffusing mechanism can extend within the bladder, and the light system can illuminate light in and through the diffusing mechanism. The covering can cover the inflated bladder to provide additional shape and structure to the decorative system. |
| US08469537B2 |
Shade for a recessed light fixture
A shade for a recessed light fixture and a method of making same. In some embodiments the shade may include a fastener that extends includes the can of the recessed light fixture through its open end. For example, the fastener may extend from the top end of the shade into the can and attach to an annular wall of the can. |
| US08469536B2 |
Recessed light housing with rotatable aperture
A recessed light assembly having an illumination element and having an enclosure attachable to a support structure of a dwelling has a rotating aperture plate rotatably mounted to a wall of the enclosure. The rotating aperture plate has an illumination aperture disposed over an opening in the wall of the enclosure and the recessed light assembly has adjustable fasteners, accessible from an exterior of the recessed light assembly, which adjustable fasteners selectively permit and prevent rotation of the rotating aperture plate relative to the enclosure allowing a user to adjust the rotational alignment of the illumination aperture relative to the enclosure of an installed light assembly without disengaging an attached assembly from the support structure. The illumination element may be fixed relative to the rotating aperture plate or may be fixed relative to the enclosure. The rotating aperture plate and the enclosure may have rotational alignment reference marks and a rotational alignment indicator which serve to indicate a present rotational alignment of the aperture plate relative to the enclosure. |
| US08469531B2 |
All-directional maching tool lamp
An all-directional machine tool lamp includes an annular lamp, which includes a locating ring, which defines an upper part having a relatively smaller inner diameter, a lower part having a relatively greater inner diameter and a flange disposed at an inner side between the upper part and the lower part, three screw bolts equiangularly inserted through the locating ring to lock it to a vertically movable spindle of a machine tool, a lamp holder affixed to the lower part of the locating ring, light-emitting devices mounted in the lamp holder and a lampshade affixed to the bottom side of the lamp holder, and a switch device, which includes a housing, a switch mounted in the housing and electrically connected with the light-emitting devices by an electrical cord and a fastening member adapted for fastening the housing to the machine tool. |
| US08469521B2 |
Projector
A projector includes: a plurality of reflection type light modulation devices which modulates a corresponding color light; a color synthesize optical device which has a plurality of light entrance side surfaces and a crossing surface to combine the received color lights; a heat sink which has a base attached to the corresponding reflection type light modulation device, and a fin protruding from the base and extending in a direction crossing the crossing end surface; and a duct member disposed at a position opposed to the crossing surface to supply introduced air toward the heat sink, wherein the duct member includes a first outlet section disposed opposed to the fin such that the introduced air can be supplied toward the base through the first outlet section, and a second outlet section through which the introduced air is supplied in the extending direction of the fin. |
| US08469519B2 |
Projection apparatus providing reduced speckle artifacts
A projection apparatus for producing color images having reduced speckle artifacts comprising: at least three narrow band light sources having first, second and third visible wavelength bands; a digital image source providing color digital image data; at least one spatial light modulator for forming a color image using light responsive to the color digital image data; a projection display surface including a reflective layer that reflects incident illumination in the first, second, and third wavelength bands; and a fluorescent agent that absorbs a fraction of the incident light in the first visible wavelength bands and emits light in a corresponding first emissive visible wavelength band; and a projection lens that projects the color image onto the projection display surface; wherein return light from the projection display surface contains light in both the first incident visible wavelength band and the first emissive visible wavelength band, thereby reducing speckle artifacts. |
| US08469515B2 |
Illuminator, image display apparatus, and polarization conversion/diffusion member
An illuminator that illuminates a projected surface includes a laser light source that emits laser light; a polarization converter disposed downstream of the laser light source, the polarization converter having a first area that converts the polarization direction of incident laser light into a first polarization direction and outputs the resultant laser light and a second area that converts the polarization direction of incident laser light into a second polarization direction and outputs the resultant laser light; and a light diffusion section disposed downstream of the laser light source, the light diffusion section diffusing incident laser light. |
| US08469512B2 |
Computer eyewear with spectral filtering
Various embodiments of computer eyewear include optical treatments to provide a relaxing, calming, and soothing light environment for the eye. Certain embodiments of computer eyewear include a frame and two lenses. Each lens in these embodiments has optical power in the range from about +0.1 to about +0.5 diopters, and provides spectral filtering characterized by a transmission curve. The transmission curve includes a stop band portion positioned between about 320 nm to about 400 nm, a first plateau region positioned between about 420 nm to about 450 nm, a ramp region positioned between about 470 nm to about 560 nm, and a second plateau region positioned between about 570 nm to about 680 nm. |
| US08469507B2 |
Medium holding apparatus and image forming apparatus
A medium holding apparatus includes: a medium holding conveyance device which has a plurality of suction grooves for suctioning a sheet-shaped medium, and conveys the medium in a prescribed direction while holding the medium on a medium holding surface; and a suction pressure generating device which is connected to the plurality of suction grooves, and generates suction pressure in each of the suction grooves, wherein: the plurality of suction grooves include a leading end suction groove provided at a position where a leading end region of the medium is held, and the leading end suction groove has a structure so as to be separated from other suction grooves of the plurality of suction grooves, and is connected to the suction pressure generating device via a flow channel which is not connected to the other suction grooves. |
| US08469506B2 |
Printer
A printer has a pair of a right side member (8) and a left side member (9) placed on opposite side portions of a base (53), rollers including a transport roller (3), a carriage chassis (12), a platen (2) and a feed unit. The right side member and the left side member are formed by molding a resin material. The roller, the carriage chassis, the platen and the feed unit are positioned and held with the pair of the right side member and the left side member. |
| US08469504B2 |
Ink set, ink jet recording method and ink jet recording apparatus
An object of the invention is to provide an ink set which enables to improve image density and scratch resistance of the images recorded using an ink containing a self-dispersion pigment and an ink containing a modified siloxane compound. An ink set to be used for ink jet recording including plural inks having a first ink and a second ink independently, wherein the first ink contains at least a pigment having functional groups on surface of pigment particles and a compound having adsorptivity to the pigment and the functional group density on the surface of the pigment particles is 1.5 μmol/m2 or more and less than 2.6 μmol/m2 and the second ink contains at least a pigment and a modified siloxane compound. |
| US08469503B2 |
Method of thermal degassing in an inkjet printer
A method of reducing air in an ink passageway in an inkjet printer by pressurizing a thermally actuated degassing unit that includes an air chamber, venting air through a check valve configured to allow air to vent from the air chamber to ambient when the pressure in the air chamber exceeds ambient air pressure by a predetermined amount The pressurizing is performed by heating an element inside the air chamber. A power supply is connected to the heating element, and power is applied to the heating element during a first time interval to increase the pressure in the air chamber above ambient pressure. Gas is vented from the check valve which allows the heating element to cool during a second time interval to reduce the pressure in the air chamber below ambient pressure. Gas is then drawn from the ink passageway through the membrane into the air chamber. |
| US08469501B2 |
Air extraction method for inkjet printhead
A method of extracting air from an inkjet printhead includes using an air extraction chamber connected to the printhead. The air extraction chamber comprises an air chamber, a one-way relief valve having open and closed positions used in venting of the air chamber. A piston in the form of a disk is provided to vent a quantity of air from the air chamber through the one-way relief valve when it's pushed through a cylinder. The piston is moved in an opposite direction through the cylinder so that a reduced air pressure is applied to the printhead when the one-way relief valve is in its closed position. |
| US08469495B2 |
Producing ink drops in a printing apparatus
A method of producing ink drops (54, 56) in a printing apparatus (20) sends print-nonprint data from a controller (38) to at least one inkjet nozzle (28). The print-nonprint data includes data on a current ink drop and data on at least one previous ink drop. A set of waveforms (114, 116) is provided to the at least one nozzle and a waveform based on the print-nonprint data is selected. The selected waveform is supplied to an ink droplet formation device associated with the at least one nozzle and an ink drop is produced from the at least one nozzle. |
| US08469491B2 |
Wiring structure for actuator
A wiring structure including printed circuits each including: a base member including one end portion facing an actuator and the other end portion of the base member drawn from the one end portion along a face of the actuator and then turned, the other end portion extending in parallel with the one end portion; output terminals formed on the one end portion and configured to output signals to the actuator; a drive IC mounted on the base member and connected to the output terminals by wirings; and input terminal formed on the other end portion and connected to the drive IC by wirings to input signals to the drive IC, wherein the printed circuits are arranged in a predetermined direction along the face of the actuator, wherein the one end portions of the respective base members are arranged in the predetermined direction, and wherein the other end portions of the respective base members are arranged in the predetermined direction. |
| US08469489B2 |
Inkjet print head and method therefor
An inkjet print head is fabricated by forming an electrode and two protection film layers composed of an inorganic insulating film and an organic insulating film over the electrode within a groove of a piezoelectric member, adhering a top board to the piezoelectric member covering the groove to form a pressure chamber, adhering a polyimide plate to cover the groove, and then forming a nozzle in the polyimide plate by the excimer laser processing aligning to the pressure chamber. The excimer laser light penetrates the polyimide plate to form a nozzle is then emitted on the organic insulating film. Consequently, part of the organic insulating film is damaged by the laser light. To prevent this damage, the thickness of the inorganic insulating film in the part to which the excimer laser light is emitted is prepared to be 0.5 μm or more. |
| US08469486B2 |
Image forming apparatus and media support device thereof
A media support device usable with an image forming apparatus is disclosed. The media support device includes a support surface having at least one media support area. The media support area is configured to receive and support media to receive ink ejected from an image forming apparatus thereto. The media support device also includes a plurality of cavities configured to store ink ejected from the image forming apparatus thereto. Each one of the cavities includes a cavity opening configured to receive the ink ejected from the image forming apparatus thereto. |
| US08469484B2 |
Inkjet apparatus and method for judging replacement timing for components of the apparatus
In an inkjet apparatus capable of ejecting an ink and a treatment liquid for insolubilizing or coagulating a color material in the ink, a replacement timing for a component of the apparatus is judged based on both the consumption amounts of the ink and treatment liquid measured when the two are consumed together and the consumption amount of the ink measured when the ink is consumed alone. Thus, the component is replaced at an earlier timing when the influence of fixed adhesion is great due to frequent ejection of both of the ink and treatment liquid, which prevents fixed adhesion from influencing the print performance and the printing apparatus main body. By contrast, when the fixed adhesion slowly develops because of less-frequent ejection of both of the ink and treatment liquid, the component is replaced at a later timing and thus can be used until reaching its lifetime. |
| US08469477B2 |
Recording device, recording device control method, and computer-readable recording medium that stores a program executed by a control unit that controls the recording device
A recording device is provided that records images on a recording medium and cuts the recording medium. The recording device includes a printer having a print head that prints on a recording medium, a recording medium feed motor and a platen that convey the recording medium, a cutter unit that cuts the recording medium printed by the print head, and a control unit that controls the recording medium feed motor, the print head, and the cutter unit. The printer prints images by means of the print head while conveying the recording medium, stops feeding the recording medium when the recording medium is cut by the cutter unit during printing, and after the cutter unit finishes cutting the recording medium, feeds the recording medium a specific length in reverse before resuming printing by the print head. |
| US08469473B2 |
Inkjet recording apparatus
An inkjet recording apparatus includes a recording head having three rows of nozzles which are three-phase driven and arranged in a staggered arrangement. The nozzles are arranged in the main scanning direction at an interval of L/3, where L is a pixel pitch, and each nozzle row is ejection-driven in the sequence from the last nozzle row to the forward nozzle row in the moving direction of the recording head. The recording head scans at a moving speed of 2×L×f, where f is an ejection frequency per nozzle row. After the completion of one scan, the recording medium is moved a distance of predetermined multiples of the pixel pitch in the sub-scanning direction, and in the next scan, ink is ejected onto the recording medium at pixel positions other than the pixel position on which the ink has landed in preceding scans. |
| US08469470B2 |
Refrigerator unit and/or a freezer unit
A refrigerator unit and/or a freezer unit having one or more storage shelves for the reception of refrigerated goods and/or frozen goods is provided. The unit has one or more extension arrangements which are connected to the storage shelves and by means of which the storage shelves can be pulled out of and pushed into the appliance, wherein the extension arrangements are releasably connected to the storage shelves and/or wherein the extension arrangements are releasably connected to the unit. |
| US08469469B2 |
Refrigerator
A refrigerator is disclosed. The refrigerator may have a door opening device which is connected at an external surface of a main body, and includes a pushing unit operated by a driving unit to open a refrigerator door by pushing one side of the refrigerator door. Also, a buffering member may be provided between the door opening device and the external surface of the main body. Accordingly, the reliability of the refrigerator is improved. |
| US08469468B2 |
Slide assembly with buffering device
A slide assembly with a buffering device includes a positioning member, a swing member, a push member, a resilient member and an engaging member, all of which are connected to the slide assembly having a first rail and a second rail. The positioning member is movably connected to the first rail and the swing member is pivotably connected to the positioning member. The push member is connected to the positioning member and biased by the resilient member so as to move longitudinally. The engaging member is connected to the second rail. A buffering member is located between the positioning member and the first rail. The buffering member maintains the positioning member at a first position relative to the first rail. |
| US08469466B2 |
Computer enclosure
A computer enclosure includes a bracket and a locking member. The bracket includes a side plate defining a slide slot. A first pair of positioning mechanisms and a second pair of positioning mechanisms are located on opposite sides of the slide slot. The locking member is configured for securing a disk drive in the bracket and includes a first pair of locking portions and a second pair of locking portions. The second pair of locking portions are engaged with the second pair of positioning mechanisms. The first pair of locking portions are resiliently deformable between a first state, in which the first pair of locking portions are engaged with the first pair of positioning mechanisms, and a second state, in which the first pair of locking portions are deformed in opposite directions and disengaged from the first pair of positioning mechanisms. |
| US08469465B2 |
Bogie undercarriage design with rigidly mounted track roller
An undercarriage is disclosed that includes a rigidly mounted track roller near or adjacent to a rear drive sprocket, with the outer radius of the track roller overlapping the outer radius of the drive sprocket. The remaining rollers and bogies may be flexibly suspended. |
| US08469464B2 |
Parking brake assembly for railway vehicle brake system
A parking brake assembly for a railway car includes a ratchet mounted for rotation on a threaded piston rod of a brake actuator and a holding pawl engageable with the ratchet for maintaining a push rod of the parking brake assembly to apply braking force when the air pressure is lost in the brake pipe and releasing the push rod to accordingly release the braking force when the supply of air pressure in the brake pipe is restored. An operating lever and a cylinder connected thereto are provided for selectively rotating the holding pawl. Valve is provided for supplying air pressure to and evacuating it from the cylinder. Release mechanism is provided for manually releasing the braking force. The parking brake assembly is employed with either truck-mounted or carbody-mounted braking system. |
| US08469456B2 |
Ejector unit for a road milling machine or the like
The invention relates to an ejector unit, in particular for a road milling machine, having an ejector that is replaceably mounted on a carrier. In one aspect the ejector is curved in a scoop-like fashion. In another aspect the ejector is reversible upon the carrier to allow the ejector to be reversed after one wear surface is worn, thus presenting a new second wear surface. |
| US08469452B2 |
Seat back headrest
A headrest includes at least one seat back mounting member and a connector coupling a cushion to the mounting member. A hinge may be coupled to the connector to movably deploy a cushion between a first use position for supporting a portion of a user's head and second substantially vertically extending non-use position. At least one or a pair of bores extends from the front surface into the seatback. The cushion connectors are removably mountable in the bores. |
| US08469448B2 |
Operation mechanism of side support apparatus and side support apparatus using same for vehicular seat
An operation mechanism of a side support apparatus adapted to be accommodated in a right and left side support portions provided at a seatback and being movable between a support position and an open position, includes a support structure including a pulley and being movable between the open position and the support position, a first fixing portion including a first guide portion and a second guide portion and fixedly provided at a seatback member, and a drive cable being fixedly attached to the first fixing portion at a first end portion of the drive cable and being engaged with the pulley at an intermediate of the drive cable. The pulley is pushed by a tensile force generated at the drive cable by pulling the drive cable so that the support structure is movable relative to the first fixing portion in a direction toward the support position. |
| US08469444B2 |
Dressed headliner for vehicles with a finished perimeter and a method for obtaining it
A dressed headliner for vehicles with a finished perimeter, where the headliner's finished perimeter is formed without the addition of any adhesive and where the finished perimeter is a high quality finished perimeter with sharp contour. |
| US08469442B1 |
Vehicle front body structure
A vehicle front body structure includes an A-pillar support portion, a dash wall, a front structural support portion, a lateral structural support portion and a reinforcing bracket. The dash wall is attached to the A-pillar support portion and at least partially defines a wheel well. The front structural support portion extends in a vehicle longitudinal direction from the dash wall. The lateral structural support portion extends from the front structural support to the A-pillar support portion along a lower portion of the dash wall. The reinforcing bracket is attached at a first location to the A-pillar support portion, attached at a second location to the lateral structural support portion, attached at a third location to the front structural support portion and attached at a fourth location to the dash wall. The reinforcing bracket extends across an overlap connection between the dash wall and the A-pillar support portion. |
| US08469440B2 |
Closure assembly having continually adjustable lateral restraint
A closure assembly includes a striker assembly and a latch mechanism. The striker assembly includes a first wedge block and a second wedge block disposed opposite each other across a path. The first wedge block rotates about a first axis and includes a first cam surface defining a continuously variable distance to the first axis for engaging the latch mechanism. The second wedge block rotates about a second axis and includes a second cam surface defining a continuously variable distance from to the second axis for engaging the latch mechanism. Abutting engagement between the latch mechanism and the first cam surface limits lateral movement of the latch mechanism relative to the path in a first direction, and abutting engagement between the latch mechanism and the second cam surface limits lateral movement of the latch mechanism relative to the path in a second direction, which is opposite the first direction. |
| US08469433B2 |
Decklid hinge counterbalance assembly having a straight-end torque rod
A counterbalanced decklid hinge assembly for rotatably supporting a decklid relative to a vehicle includes a torque rod extending between a first hinge box and a second hinge box. A support member is rotatably supported by each of the first and second hinge boxes. A linkage system interconnects one axial end of the torque rod to one of the support members, and is attached to the axial end of the torque rod in a manner that allows for a straight axial end of the torque rod, i.e., requires no bends. A lever is attached to and rotatable with the other axial end of the torque rod, and is attached in a manner that allows for a straight axial end of the torque rod, i.e., requires no bends. |
| US08469431B2 |
Reconfigurable seating arrangement
The present invention relates to a reconfigurable seating arrangement (10) for car, bus, trains, or the like, comprising first (1) and second (2) frame section elements connected with a backrest part (IA) and a seat part (2A), respectively. A connection and reconfiguration device (3) connects said first frame section element (1) with said second frame section element (2) so that the seating arrangement (10) can be reconfigured between a first functional state wherein the seat part (2A) and the backrest part (IA) form a seat having a backrest, and a second functional state wherein the lower part of the seat part (2A2) forms vertical support to wheelchair (20) or the like. |
| US08469428B1 |
Vehicle trim assembly
A vehicle trim assembly includes an interior trim panel and a pull cup. The pull cup includes a main body, an attachment portion and a break-away portion connecting the main body to the attachment portion. The attachment portion is fastened to the interior trim panel. The break-away portion is configured and arranged to separate the main body from the attachment portion in response to a prescribed level of force applied to at least one of the interior trim panel and the pull cup. |
| US08469427B1 |
Drop ceiling title installation tool
A drop ceiling tile installation tool is provided for facilitating installation of ceiling tiles into a drop ceiling. The tool includes a pole and a connector coupled to a first end of the pole. A plurality of support arms is coupled to and extends outwardly from the connector. The support arms include a pair of upper support arms and a pair of lower support arms. A pair of hooks is coupled to and extends from distal ends the lower support arms relative to the connector whereby the hooks are configured for receiving and supporting an edge of a ceiling tile. A pair of tile support panels is coupled to distal ends of the upper support arms relative to the connector whereby the tile support panels are configured for supporting a bottom surface of a ceiling tile when the edge of the ceiling tile is received by the pair of hooks. |
| US08469423B1 |
Telescopic hot stick with controlled button movement feature
A multi-section telescoping pole for manipulating a tool. Sections of the pole have apertures. A pinch safety locking assembly includes a button configured for movement by a digit on a user's hand to a first position by a first resilient member when received in aligned first and second apertures to restrain the second section from moving relative to the first section and to a second position against a resistance provided by the first resilient member and against an elastic stop to permit relative longitudinal movement between the first and second sections. The pinch safety locking assembly is additionally configured to facilitate assembly by movement of the button by use of an excessive force to a third position against a combined resistance of the first resilient member and the elastic stop to permit relative movement between the pinch safety locking assembly and the second section. |
| US08469422B2 |
Weed extraction system, method
A system and method for providing weed extraction so Industrial, Commercial and Home users (ICAHUs) can assure that unwanted weeds can be easily and effectively extracted. The system and method allows ICAHUs to work safely and efficiently and to extract weeds by using a hand-held device that can easily penetrate the ground around weeds, secure the unwanted weed, and aid the user in extracting the weed from the ground. ICAHUs can easily operate the levers of the device which operate jaws to secure to weeds. Specialized debris passages in the jaws of the device allow for debris to be passed through the jaws of the device which allow to for continued use and a greatly reduced need to clean the device during use. The method comprises a system in which unwanted weeds may be easily secured and extracted by the user without an increased risk of accidents or without unnecessary steps or procedures for cleaning. |
| US08469415B2 |
Bumper reinforcement and bumper device for vehicle
A bumper reinforcement having end portions in a width direction of a vehicle, includes a main wall extending in a first direction perpendicular to the width direction, first and second walls protruding from the main wall in the first direction to extend toward an interior side of the vehicle in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, flanges protruding from respective ends of the first and second walls along the first direction, the main wall, the first and second walls, and the flanges being integrally formed with one another, and gradually narrowing portions formed, in the width direction, at end portions of each of the first and second walls, wherein respective protruding lengths of the first and second walls in the longitudinal direction gradually decrease from an intermediate portion of the bumper reinforcement to the end portions of the bumper reinforcement in the width direction to form the gradually narrowing portions. |
| US08469413B2 |
Adjustable striker for vehicle door latch
An anchor plate assembly adjustably mounts a striker on the vehicle pillar. The striker has a striker base with apertures for receiving mounting bolts that will extend though oversized apertures in the pillar. An anchor base has a base plate for engagement with the pillar and bolt slots in the base plate for alignment with the oversized apertures in the pillar. An anchor slide has a slide plate mounted for vertical sliding movement on the base plate. The slide plate has nuts thereon aligned with the oversized apertures of the pillar. The nuts receive the mounting bolts so that when the mounting bolts are loose the striker together with the anchor slide can be adjusted vertically until tightening of the mounting bolts effectively clamps the slide plate of the anchor slide against the base plate of the anchor base to maintain the striker at the vertically adjusted position. |
| US08469409B2 |
Overstroke latch assembly
A closure assembly is mounted on a vehicle and moveable between a closed position and at least one open position. The closure assembly includes a closure structure mounted to an associated vehicle for movement between the closed position and the at least one open position. A first lock assembly is selectively locking the closure structure to the associated vehicle. A second lock assembly is selectively locking the closure structure to the associated vehicle. One of the first and second lock assemblies includes a latch that requires overstroking to lock the latch in a latched position. |
| US08469407B2 |
Coupler devices with spring-loaded coupler sleeves
A bottom loading coupler includes a coupler body and a plurality of interlocks. Each interlock is positioned in a slot in the body sidewall and pivotally coupled to the coupler body such that each interlock has an engaged position and a disengaged position with each interlock biased to the disengaged position. A coupler sleeve is slidably positioned around the coupler body and comprises a first, retracted position relative to the coupler body and a second, extended position relative to the coupler body. A biasing element is positioned between the coupler sleeve and the coupler body and biases the coupler sleeve to the second, extended position relative to the coupler body. The interlocks are in the disengaged position when the coupler sleeve is in the first, retracted position and in the engaged position when the coupler sleeve is in the second, extended position. |
| US08469404B2 |
Connecting assembly
A connecting assembly that can be coupled to a tubular wall is provided. The assembly includes a connecting fitting having a tubular coupling portion, an abutment ring, and an arcuate-shaped tubular body. The abutment ring is disposed around an outer surface of the tubular coupling portion a predetermined distance from a first end of the tubular coupling portion. An end of the tubular body is coupled to a second end of the tubular coupling portion. The assembly further includes a retaining member having a ring-shaped portion and first and second finger portions extending from the ring-shaped portion. The arcuate-shaped tubular body of the connecting fitting is received through a central aperture of the ring-shaped portion such that the ring-shaped portion is slidably disposed on the tubular body of the connecting fitting and is further slidably disposed against the abutment ring. |
| US08469402B2 |
Riding mower
A riding mower having left and right driving rear wheels independently drivable forward and backward and a pair of left and right steerable front wheels is provided with a support device capable of being mounted with a cylindrical gas cylinder in a horizontal position on an external side of a rollover projection frame. The support device is provided such that the mounted gas cylinder is positioned along front and rear of the rollover protection frame and is mounted in a tilted state in which the central axis of the cylindrical gas cylinder is closer to a central side in a lateral direction of a vehicle body toward a rear side from a plan view. |
| US08469400B2 |
Seat harness pretensioner
Various embodiments of seat harness pretensioning devices for use in land, air, and sea vehicles are described herein. In one embodiment, a seat unit for use in a military land vehicle or helicopter includes a stroking device that enables the seat to move downwardly in response to an explosion or hard landing, respectively. The seat unit also includes a seat belt or harness that extends around the occupant in the seat. Downward movement of the seat in response to an explosion or hard landing causes a tensioning system to automatically pretension the seat harness. |
| US08469397B2 |
Stitch patterns for restraint-mounted airbags and associated systems and methods
Stitch patterns for inflatable personal restraint systems and associated systems and methods. A stitch pattern between a web of a restraint and an airbag mounted to the restraint has a continuous, or curvilinear pattern to reduce stress concentrations. The stitch pattern can be applied to the web, the airbag, and a gas tube in a single stitching procedure. |
| US08469394B2 |
Height adjustable vehicle seat with side airbag and motor vehicle with such a seat
Disclosed is a vehicle seat (10) for a motor vehicle having a backrest (14) with a seat-mounted side airbag (20) having a first side wall (22) facing the occupant and a second side wall (24) facing the outside of the vehicle. The side airbag (20) is located on the side of the backrest (14) facing the outside of the vehicle, and the side airbag (20) includes a first ventilation opening (30) in the second side wall, the ventilation opening being at least throttled on lying against an object, so that a ventilation of the airbag is adapted as a function of the size of the occupant. The vehicle seat (10) is height adjustable so that, depending on the height adjustment of the vehicle seat, the first ventilation can be closed by the inner structure of the vehicle. |
| US08469393B1 |
Foam-in-place interior panels having integrated airbag door for motor vehicles and methods for making the same
Interior panels having integrated airbag doors for motor vehicles and methods for making such interior panels are provided herein. In one example, an interior panel comprises a substrate having outer and inner surfaces and an opening extending therethrough. An airbag chute-door assembly is mounted to the substrate and comprises a chute wall that at least partially surrounds an interior space. A door flap portion is pivotally connected to the chute wall and at least partially covers the opening. A perimeter flange extends from the chute wall and has a flange section that overlies the outer surface of the substrate. A molded-in lip feature extends from the flange section and contacts the outer surface to form a seal between the flange section and the substrate. A skin covering extends over the substrate and a foam is disposed between the skin covering and the substrate. |
| US08469387B2 |
Ski binding device
A ski binding device, in which a ski boot (4) is connected at its toe portion (6) to a ski (2), and in which there is arranged between the ski (2) and the ski boot (4) a guide (1) which is arranged to transfer torque (16) between the ski (2) and the ski boot (4) about the longitudinal axis of the ski (2). |
| US08469386B2 |
Swivel drawbar hitch
A swivel drawbar hitch has a first cradle having a first pivot mechanism located ahead of a connection between a drawbar and the swivel drawbar hitch, the swivel drawbar hitch further including an elongated second cradle coupled to the first cradle and further having a second pivot mechanism, the first cradle pivotable about a horizontal axis of the swivel drawbar hitch, the elongated second cradle pivotable about a longitudinal axis of the swivel drawbar hitch. |
| US08469384B2 |
Disconnectable articulated connection between two successive road-going modules of a road train
The articulated connection which is disconnectable and formed of a hitching device (6) with a drawbar component (7) for rapid coupling and uncoupling (5). The articulated connection is carried at the front of the following road module (2) and fixed in terms of orientation with respect to a central longitudinal axis (12) of the leading road module (1), independent of the steering axle of the following road module or of its steering assembly, and it has a rear end (9) of the piece pivot-mounted (14) on the chassis of the following road module (2) and a front end has a complementary coupling and uncoupling mechanism, together with roll and pitch travel mechanism and angular end stop mechanism. This device is applicable to the urban transport of passengers. |
| US08469383B2 |
Midwheel drive wheelchair with independent front and rear suspension
A wheelchair includes a frame, and a front pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame at a front pivot point, the front pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A rear pivot arm is pivotally mounted to the frame at a rear pivot point, the rear pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction. |
| US08469379B2 |
Support for pneumatic spring of wheel axle suspension
A wheel axle suspension for suspending an axle body of a wheel axle from a vehicle, comprises on both sides of the vehicle a trailing arm which extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The axle body is attached to the trailing arms. The trailing arms are each hingedly connected at the front in the direction of travel of the vehicle to a bearing bracket which is arranged on the vehicle chassis. The wheel axle suspension furthermore comprises a pneumatic spring which is operational between the trailing arm and the chassis. A pneumatic spring support arm is provided, which is coupled to the axle body for supporting an underside of the pneumatic spring. The pneumatic spring support arm is coupled to the axle body so that the pneumatic spring support arm is mountable in a plurality of orientations with respect to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. |
| US08469374B2 |
Suitcase with extensible steering wheels
A suitcase has a pair of wheels installed at one side of a body of the suitcase and a handlebar projecting from the body of the suitcase on a side opposite where the wheels are installed and a board movable between a rest position drawn near the suitcase body and an operative position projecting from the suitcase body to hold up a suitcase user with the wheels installed on the suitcase body being steering and there being a kinematic connection between the handlebar and the wheels to control the steering. The steering wheels are movable between a retracted position near the suitcase body and an operative position extended far from the suitcase body. |
| US08469373B2 |
Shopping cart, frame, basket and production methods
A method of manufacturing different shopping cart models is provided. The method includes providing multiple sets of base modules, providing at least one set of tubular side uprights, and selecting a base module from each of the different sets thereof. For each selected base module, selecting a pair of tubular side uprights from any one of the at least one set thereof. For each selected base module, aligning the mounting surfaces of the selected pair of tubular side uprights with the respective mounting surfaces of the selected base module, and securing the mounting surfaces together so that the upper portions of the selected tubular side uprights extend upward from the base module in parallel relation to each other. For each selected base module, mounting at least one shopping cart basket to the tubular side uprights. |
| US08469371B1 |
Active geometry control suspension system
An active geometric control suspension system may include an upper arm connected to a side above and between a rear wheel-sided knuckle and a subframe, and an assist link connected to the other side above and between the knuckle and the subframe, together with a node-changeable unit, wherein the node-changeable unit includes a housing formed at a portion of the subframe, a track-variable kit detachably coupled to brackets of the housing, cam-operating rails fixed to a side of the track-variable kit, a cam disposed on the cam-operating rails of the track-variable kit to be slidable up/down along the cam-operating rails, and a cam bolt connecting the cam with a vehicle body-sided connecting portion of the assist link. |
| US08469364B2 |
Movable bullet trap
A portable bullet trap includes a rail which is attachable to a shoot house or other ballistic wall and a trolley which facilitates movement of the bullet trap along the rail. Additionally a bullet trap may include a plurality of pivotable baffles or other structures disposed therein to deflect and partially decelerate a bullet. |
| US08469362B1 |
Wagering card game
Cards are used to create a wagering game that can be promoted as being a version of Russian Roulette. Regardless of how many bettors there are at a casino betting table, only two hands are dealt. Each bettor has the option of betting on either hand X or hand Y. A method for determining which hand is the winning hand is comprised of dealing alternately one card to hand X and one card to hand Y until one of the hands is dealt a predesignated losing card or a predesignated winning card. A method for regulating betting in a hand of cards is described. A method for enabling a casino to offer bettors multiple free bets without lowering the casino's average edge on the game is also described. Side bets are described. Multiple other features of the game are also described. |
| US08469361B2 |
Role-playing game
There is provided a game in which a first game piece has a first game piece level value, a second game piece has a second game piece level value, and a third game piece has a third game piece level value. The first game piece also has an attacking ability value such that the first game piece, when within an attacking range with respect to the second and third game pieces (i) is permitted to concurrently attack both of the second and third game pieces if a total of the second and third game piece level values is less than or equal to the attacking ability value, and (ii) is not permitted to concurrently attack both of the second and third game pieces if a total of the second and third game piece level values is greater than the attacking ability value. |
| US08469360B2 |
Playing card shuffler
An apparatus is for shuffling a plurality of playing cards used in gaming. The apparatus includes a card support adapted to support the unshuffled cards on-edge. An exciter is also included, and is adapted to impart vibrational action to the supported cards. Cards drop in a random fashion such as by controlling the relative position of the cards and passage through one or more card slots in a card rest. In at least some of the apparatuses, a medial card receiver is adapted to receive at least one card dropped from the card support and to retain the at least one received card to substantially block the card slot to prevent further cards from dropping. A positioner is preferably included to change a relative position of the unshuffled deck and card slots though which the cards drop. |
| US08469359B2 |
Media actuated media diverter for an imaging device
A media actuated, media diverter mounted on a media guide positioned between the output of a simplex path and the entrance of a duplex path in an imaging device. The media diverter comprises a plate having a media guiding surface and a media contact surface along portions of the edge of the plate. The plate is received within a slot through the guide member such that in a first position the media contact surface extends into the duplex path and when in a second position the media guiding surface extends into the simplex path with the plate biasable in the first position. A media sheet fed into the duplex path contacts the media contact surface actuating the media diverter to move the plate to the second position directing a following media sheet in the simplex path to an exit of the imaging device. |
| US08469358B1 |
Registration and transport unit for a sheet feeder
A sheet medium transport apparatus has a sheet guide mechanism with drive rollers and reaction rollers mounted for gripping a sheet guided by the guide mechanism. The drive rollers provide a drive component in a transport direction and a transverse drive component for driving a sheet so that a side edge of the transported sheet lodges against a registration plate. Once the sheet is registered against the registration plate, drive from the drive rollers causes the sheet edge to slide past the registration plate in the transport direction with the drive rollers sliding over the sheet. |
| US08469356B2 |
Paper supply unit
A paper supply unit includes one or more supporting members that are capable of moving between various positions to support an end portion of paper of various sizes, and which are moveable between the positions in association of the movement of a handle accessible to a user. A locking device is provided to maintain the handle selectively at one of the various positions so as to maintain the supporting members in the position suitable for supporting the paper of selected size. A guide plane may be provided to guide the movement of the handle. One or more indication marks indicating the corresponding positions of the handle for the selection of the paper size. The provision of the locking device at the handle may advantageously resulting in a simple configuration of the paper supply unit. |
| US08469355B2 |
Sheet feeder and image forming apparatus
A sheet feeder includes a casing having a loading surface, a supply roller, a drive mechanism, a blocking member, and an interlocking mechanism. The supply roller is configured to feed recording sheets on the loading surface toward the image forming unit. The drive mechanism is configured to move the supply roller. The blocking member is disposed upstream from the supply roller in a sheet feed direction and includes a block surface configured to be moved between a first position and a second position. The block surface is configured to block insertion of a recording sheet to a downstream side when in the first position, and configured to allow insertion of the recording sheets on the loading surface when in the second position. The interlocking mechanism is configured to receive a drive force from the drive mechanism to move the blocking member. |
| US08469354B2 |
Drive mechanism and image forming apparatus
A drive mechanism for transmitting a drive force to drive a processing apparatus which carries out a prescribed process. The drive mechanism includes an output portion, an electromagnetic clutch and a case. An output portion for outputting the drive force, an electromagnetic clutch for controlling transmission of the drive force to the output portion, and a case including a first storage section which defines a first storage room to store the output portion, and a second storage section which defines a second storage room to store the electromagnetic clutch. Additionally, the second storage section includes a peripheral wall which surround the electromagnetic clutch, and a supporting wall which supports the electromagnetic clutch. The peripheral wall includes an upper wall above the electromagnetic clutch and a lower wall below the electromagnetic clutch. An opening section is formed in the upper wall. |
| US08469348B2 |
Image forming system
An image forming system including an image forming section to print images on sheets; a conveyance path through which the printed sheets are conveyed; a post-processing section which executes post-processing to form a booldet from a bundle of sheets conveyed through the conveyance path; a plurality of overlapping sections each of which is disposed between the image forming section and the post-processing section, makes the sheets temporarily wait, forms a bundle of sheets by overlapping a plurality of waiting sheets, and conveys to the post-processing apparatus; a control section which, with respect to a second or later booldet set in case of continuously forming booldet sets, controls a number of the sheets to be conveyed to the overlapping section, a conveying order of the sheets, and a timing to convey the sheets to a downstream side, based on a period of executing the post-processing. |
| US08469345B2 |
Automated, adjustable, machine-tool work-piece-mounting apparatus
Embodiments of the present invention include various different types and sizes of automated, computer-controlled, adjustable machine-tool work-piece mounting systems used to support and constrain movement of work pieces during manufacture, repair, and maintenance. The automated, computer-controlled, adjustable machine-tool work-piece mounting systems that represent embodiments of the present invention are implemented from one or more adjustable machine-tool work-piece mounting-system modules. Each adjustable machine-tool work-piece mounting-system module comprises an array of extendable supports with non-circular and non-elliptical cross sections. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the extendable supports are extended and retracted along a direction approximately normal to a substrate or surface of the automated, computer-controlled, adjustable machine-tool work-piece mounting-system module by linear actuators and are maintained at desired positions by compressed-air brakes. Electrical power and control signals are delivered together through a common cable or cables to the linear actuators, with delivered electrical energy stored within capacitors of the linear actuators and used to drive support-extension components and switches within the linear actuators. |
| US08469344B2 |
Tooling system with array of height adjustable elements
A tooling system (1) having a number of elements (2) arranged in an array, which elements define a contoured surface, or a section of a contoured surface. The tooling system also including means (7) for mounting an element to a support rail (5) which extends across the array, which means allows adjustment of the height of the element with respect to other elements of the array, and extends through the support rail into a space defined below the support rail. A supporting element (6) formed from a suitable resistant material and including accommodation means (8) for the means for mounting, is located in the space below the support rail and is sized so that it substantially vertically fills the space between the support rail and a base on which the tooling system is located. |
| US08469343B2 |
Adjustable track clamp
An assembly comprises a platform including a first clamping surface, a track proximate to an edge of the first clamping surface, and a clamp mechanism including a second clamping surface. The clamp mechanism is configured to clamp a workpiece between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface. The clamp mechanism is mounted to the track. The clamp mechanism is positionable at different locations along the track. The assembly may further comprise one or more adjustable spacer blocks mountable to the track to facilitate precisely positioning a workpiece proximate to the track at least two different spacings. |
| US08469342B2 |
Substrate suction apparatus and method for manufacturing the same
Provided is a substrate suction apparatus which has a vacuum suction mechanism and an electrostatic attraction mechanism, and improves planarity of a subject to be processed by improving uniformity in vacuum suction power. A method for manufacturing such substrate suction apparatus is also provided. A substrate suction apparatus (1) is provided with a base board (2), a dielectric body (3), an electrostatic attraction mechanism (4) and a vacuum suction mechanism (5). Specifically, the dielectric body (3) is composed of a downmost dielectric layer (31), an intermediate dielectric layer (32) and a topmost dielectric layer (33). The electrostatic attraction mechanism (4) is composed of attraction electrodes (41, 42) and a direct current power supply. The vacuum suction mechanism (5) is composed of a groove (51), a suction channel (52), a porous dielectric body (3) and the porous attraction electrodes (41, 42). The downmost dielectric layer (31), the intermediate dielectric layer (32) and the topmost dielectric layer (33) are formed by spraying ceramic particles, and the attraction electrodes (41, 42) are formed by spraying tungsten particles. The average pore diameter and porosity of the downmost dielectric layer (31) are set maximum, and those of the topmost dielectric layer (33) are set minimum. |
| US08469340B2 |
Foot device for supporting a support device or lifting device
A foot device (29) for supporting a support device or lifting device, in particular a semitrailer support or the like, comprising a foot receptacle (31) for connecting a pivoting foot (32) to a support tube (12) of the lifting device (10), wherein the foot receptacle comprises an insertion body (120) for insertion into the support tube, comprising, in two support tube engagement areas spaced apart from one another by a spindle passage area (143) of a lifting spindle (20), bracket receptacles (123,124) for receiving pivoting brackets (130,131) of the pivoting foot, wherein the pivoting brackets are connected in a captive manner to the insertion body along a pivoting axis (136), and the bracket receptacles comprise counter support faces (133) which are arranged concentrically with respect to the pivoting axis and which, for transmitting the supporting forces, correspond with respective support faces (132) formed by the outer contour of the pivoting brackets. |
| US08469338B2 |
Lifting apparatus
One disclosed lifting apparatus includes a base, a receiving portion, and a first pair of laterally offset arms. The base has proximal and distal ends, and the laterally offset arms are rotatably coupled to the base for movement between lowered and raised positions. The arms are also rotatably coupled to the receiving portion, and the receiving portion is relatively near the base distal end when the arms are at the lowered position. The arms of the first pair of arms do not share a common axis of rotation with one another. Further, a height of the first pair of arms when at the lowered position is less than the sum of: (a) a thickness of one arm of the first pair of arms; (b) a thickness of the other arm of the first pair of arms; and (c) a height of the base at the distal end. |
| US08469337B1 |
Faucet sealing
A faucet, which includes a seat defining a bore, and a one-piece construction metallic valve stem movable toward and away from the seat, the improvement comprising retainer structure associated with a lower end portion of the structure defining a head to locate in axial alignment with the bore, and a shank, and a non-metallic elastomeric O-ring installed on the shank, the O-ring sized to fit the bore between the head and stem structure above the shank, the O-ring received in the bore and captivated to directly seal off between the shank and the bore, seating with the bore, and a second O-ring carried by the stem and sealing off between the stem and a second bore defined by a bonnet as the first defined O-ring is moved by the stem toward and away from the first defined bore. |
| US08469335B2 |
Pressure energized spring seal
A metallic seal for a 90° valve features a generally rectangular shape in section that defines a chamber open to internal pressure that can enlarge the chamber to enhance the sealing effect. Sealing occurs at discrete locations at portions of the seal that are preferably rounded in shape. Overlapping ends that define the entrance to the chamber also are positioned to minimize excessive deflection and resulting plastic deformation that could close off the entrance to the chamber. |
| US08469334B2 |
Solenoid actuator
A solenoid actuator (1) attached to hydraulic equipment comprises a shaft (5) connected to the hydraulic equipment, a plunger (4) fixed to the shaft (5), a coil (12) which magnetically drives the plunger (4), and a first bearing (7) and a second bearing (8) supporting the shaft (5) on either sides of the plunger (4). A plunger front chamber (74) is formed between the first bearing (7) and the plunger (4), and a plunger rear chamber (75) is formed between the plunger (4) and the second bearing (8). By providing a plunger exterior oil passage (63) on the outside of the plunger (4) to connect the plunger front chamber (74) to the plunger rear chamber (75), working oil flows through the plunger exterior oil passage (63) every time the plunger (4) strokes, thereby preventing a deposit of contaminant on the plunger (4) without increasing a stroke resistance of the plunger (4). |
| US08469322B1 |
System for displaying a strand of lights on a structure
A system for displaying a strand of lights on a residence or building using an elongated member which attaches to a standard gutter or an eave of the building. The member can be made of metal and has a number of spaced apart hooks for securing a portion of the strand of lights. The system can include a plurality of vertically spaced clips located on a downspout or other structure of the building which secure a portion of the strand of lights or an electric wire such as an extension cord. Additionally, a mesh gutter guard can be utilized with the system and attached to the elongated member. The guard spans the width of the gutter and can be tucked under the drip edge of the roof or under shingles. |
| US08469311B2 |
Aircraft fuselage comprising a space for work and storage at the rear thereof
This fuselage comprises a wall and side doors as well as a space arranged behind the side door the farthest to the rear of the aircraft. The space for work and storage is delimited by side walls formed by the fuselage of the aircraft and by a transverse bulkhead. This space comprises housings for carts arranged along the transverse bulkhead. An aisle serves the housings arranged along the transverse bulkhead and has a transverse portion that is arranged entirely behind the side door the farthest to the rear of the aircraft. At least one housing for a cart is arranged on the other side of the transverse portion of the aisle in relation to the housings arranged along the wall, and each of the housings for accommodating a cart extends longitudinally in relation to a longitudinal axis relative to the aircraft. |
| US08469309B2 |
Monolithic structure for mounting aircraft engine
Assembly includes an integral monolithic structure for mounting an engine to an aircraft. The monolithic structure includes a nacelle portion and a support structure. The nacelle portion includes an inlet region and a fan case region defining an annular wall about an axial channel. A ring member disposed in the axial channel is connected through a plurality of radial elements to the annular wall. The support structure portion includes a forward section integral with the nacelle portion and an aft section including at least one aircraft mount region for mounting the monolithic structure to an aircraft. The forward section includes an inlet stiffening region radially outward of the annular wall. When mounted on the aircraft, the nacelle portion and the support structure portion cooperate to form a first load path operable to transmit an applied nacelle maneuvering force directly to the aircraft instead of through the engine core. |
| US08469308B2 |
Aircraft wing extension and nozzle system
A system and method to control flight of an aircraft. The aircraft having an engine with a rotatably nozzle assembly configured to create forward propulsion and yaw control of the aircraft. The engine exhaust passing through the nozzle is redirected with a valve disposed within the nozzle. Lift is created with a lift system carried by the wing of the aircraft. Additional lift is created during flight with a retractable wing extension disposed within the wing of the aircraft. |
| US08469307B2 |
Rotary wing vehicle
A rotary wing vehicle includes a body structure having an elongated tubular backbone or core, and a counter-rotating coaxial rotor system having rotors with each rotor having a separate motor to drive the rotors about a common rotor axis of rotation. The rotor system is used to move the rotary wing vehicle in directional flight. |
| US08469305B2 |
Cable cord retractor
A retractor for storing a length of cord that includes a first and second pair of pulleys mounted at opposite ends of a frame. An intermediate section of a cord is stored in the frame. The stored cord section is at least partially wound over the pair of pulleys, and one pair of pulleys is slidably mounted for motion toward the other pair of pulleys. A damper is coupled to one of the second pair of pulleys, which engages the pulley to rotate about an axis to damp the rotary motion of one of the second pair of pulleys in such a manner that the intermediate storage section is in tension during retraction and withdrawal. The retractor further includes a cable system that is coupled to a slot formed on the second frame end and configured to provide a substantially consistent retraction speed of the cord. |
| US08469300B2 |
Spinning reel
A fishing spinning reel having a housing and rotatably carrying a shaft between a crank handle and a main gear. The main gear drives a pinion gear shaft rotatably carried on one end by the housing. On the other end of the housing is mounted a rotor. Mounted on the housing, between the housing and the rotor, is a cup washer with male threads on the outside and a notch in the cup end facing the rotor. A clutch sleeve, non-rotatably attached to the rotor, around which a one way roller clutch locks, instantly engages a braking disc as the rotor rotates backwards and releases as the rotor turns forward. A frictioning disc is located on either side of the braking disc. A washer with a cleat is pushed towards the housing against the frictioning disc by a spring washer and is kept from rotation by the cleat inside the notch on the cup washer. The spring washer is pulled toward the housing by a tension adjusting drum. |
| US08469294B2 |
Continuous molded emitter
A self-contained flow path unit (202), (302), (400), (500) includes a continuous flow path operatively connected to a continuous strip member to form a self-contained flow path unit. The self-contained flow path unit may be accumulated for later use in forming an irrigation hose. |
| US08469293B2 |
Digital odor generator
A digital odor generator includes a housing and a cylindrically shaped odor chamber carried by the housing and including a plurality of separate odor compartments isolated from each other. A porous hollow cylinder, made of plastic or some other porous material, with an odorant therein is located in each of the odor compartments. A nozzle in the form of a truncated cone is operatively connected to the odor chamber. The nozzle includes an outer face having an enlarged central opening and a plurality of smaller openings surrounding the central opening; the number of smaller openings being equal to the number of odor compartments. The outer face of the nozzle is arranged so that a person can position his or her nose near the openings. Each of the smaller openings is associated with a different one of the odor compartments and is isolated from the others and from the central opening so that the odor from only one odor compartment can be emitted through only one of the smaller openings. A fan within the housing is adapted to pass fresh air through the central opening. And an air pressure source selectively forces one or more of the odorants through their respective odor compartments and out of the nozzle. |
| US08469292B1 |
Spray texture material compositions and dispensing systems and methods
A system for coating a target surface comprises texture material, a bottle for containing the texture material, a spray pump assembly, a resilient member, and a collar member. The spray pump assembly comprises a pump housing operatively connected to the bottle, a dip tube extending from the pump housing to the texture material within the bottle, and an actuator member. The resilient member is supported by the pump housing to define an outlet opening. The collar member is supported by the pump housing such that the collar member is movable relative to the resilient member. Moving the collar member relative to the resilient member deforms the resilient member to alter a cross-sectional area of the outlet opening. The actuator member is displaced to force the texture material through the dip tube, out of the bottle member, through the outlet opening, and onto the target surface. |
| US08469286B2 |
System and method for application and dispersal of a material for mating disruption and insect population control
A system and method of application and dispersion of mating disruption materials or other materials to control insect population. Disclosed is an apparatus designed to be carried by a ground vehicle, or aerial means, which implements a method of insect population control. The apparatus features one or more removable vacuum reservoirs that contain a mating disruption formulation in cylinders or bags. The vacuum bags or vacuum cylinders are seated upon one or more computer controlled peristaltic pump heads, housed in a insulated controlled environment box, that pump the material to one or more forming nozzles. Once formed the material drops into the wind stream of one or more tangential vortex type fans. Maintaining its size and shape, the mating disruption material will travel through the air field, and become attached in the trees where it will omit a flume of sex pheromones that disrupt the ability of the male insect in finding the female insect, breaking the mating cycle of the insect population. Thus serving to decrease the population by capitalizing on a weakness in the reproductive cycle of the citrus leaf miner or other insect. |
| US08469284B2 |
Pearlitic rail with excellent wear resistance and toughness
This pearlitic rail consists of a steel including: in terms of percent by mass, C: 0.65% to 1.20%; Si: 0.05% to 2.00%; Mn: 0.05% to 2.00%; and REM: 0.0005% to 0.0500%, with the balance being Fe and inevitable impurities, wherein, in a head portion of the rail, a head surface portion which ranges from surfaces of head corner portions and a head top portion to a depth of 10 mm has a pearlite structure, and the hardness Hv of the head surface portion is in a range of 320 to 500. |
| US08469282B2 |
Optically readable identification security tag or stamp
The invention relates to a security tag made by randomly distributing a mixture of large numbers of multicolored objects into a unique, non-reproducible geometric array and encapsulating it onto a substrate. The 3-D aspect of the objects will prevent printing or 2-D copying of the stamp. The data, saved to a secure database, can be processed and quantities can be calculated from the field of binary data and can be affixed to the part that the stamp is affixed to. For one level of authentication, the array can be read out by scanner and compared to values printed on the part. For an additional level of authentication, the array can be read out by optical scanner and compared to the data stored in the secure database. The security tag is capable of replacing 2-D barcodes while containing only information capable of being scanned by 2-D barcode scanners. |
| US08469281B2 |
RFID label with shielding element
Described are RFID structures and methods for forming RFID structures. An RFID structure includes a loop antenna assembly, an antenna substrate supporting the loop antenna assembly, and a shielding layer parallel with a plane defined by the antenna substrate. The loop antenna assembly has a stand-alone resonant frequency of f1 above or below a standardized reader frequency range. The loop antenna includes an antenna track and at least two contact pads. The loop antenna assembly in combination with the shielding layer has a resonant frequency of f2 below the standardized reader frequency range. If positioned against a metallic surface, the loop antenna assembly in combination with the shielding layer has a resonant frequency within the standardized reader frequency range. |
| US08469277B2 |
Methods, systems and computer program products for wireless payment transactions
Methods, systems, and computer program products for acquiring payment device data for wireless payment transactions are disclosed. According to one method, a request from a wireless payment reader for standardized payment device data for effecting a wireless payment is received by a wireless smart payment device. Payment device data elements are assembled by the wireless smart payment device into the standardized payment device data. The standardized payment device data are sent by the wireless smart payment device to the wireless payment reader. |
| US08469276B1 |
Handheld code reader having a motion sensor
A method and apparatus for use with a handheld code reader that has a plurality of operating characteristics where each operating characteristic can have a plurality of different states wherein a recipe includes a specific set of states of at least first and second characteristics, the method for switching between recipes and comprising the steps of specifying a circumstance set including at least one of reader orientation and a threshold movement level for the reader, monitoring at least one of movement and orientation of the reader, determining when the circumstance set occurs and changing from a current recipe to a next recipe when the circumstance set occurs. |
| US08469273B2 |
Label-controlled system configuration
A system has an optical scanner for reading a printed system configuration code on a printed configuration label. The printed system configuration code includes configuration information that describes a bus speed of a system bus of the system. A processor dynamically configures the system according to the configuration information decoded from the printed system configuration code. |
| US08469269B2 |
Self checkout kiosk and retail security system
A self-checkout kiosk enables a patron to purchase or allocate to an account a product displayed in a vending area and carrying a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag. The patron exits the vending area through a security portal. The kiosk, a bill acceptor, a computer monitor and/or a mobile device enables the patron to complete a purchase or allocate transaction prior to exiting the vending area through the portal. The portal includes RFID reading antennas for marking products stolen when transferred through the portal without a transaction. Alternatively, a smart shelf keeps track of products on the smart shelf and keeps a checkout tally of removed products. If the patron does not complete a purchase or allocate transaction, or returns the product to the smart shelf within a user-defined set of time, the smart shelf will mark the product as stolen. A security system responds to products marked as stolen. |
| US08469263B2 |
Check processing method, check processing program medium, and check processing apparatus
Check processing involves scanning a back of a check having no authorization data printed thereon and also scanning a front of the check having preprinted magnetic ink characters, electronically generating authorization data indicating that the check is valid based on a response from an external analysis source, generating an electronic merged image by electronically combining back image data captured during the scanning of the back of the check with generated authorization data, and storing the electronic merged image with the front image data captured during the scanning of the front of the check. Moreover, these operations may be performed in a single pass of the check in one direction through a transportation path of a check processing apparatus. No printing of any data is required. The check processing can be embodied in a method, apparatus, or instructions embodied on a machine-readable medium. |
| US08469262B2 |
Cash folding apparatus and method
Embodiments of the present invention provide currency solutions for the visually impaired by, for example, providing automated teller machines (ATMs) or other cash dispensers configured to dispense folded bills to the customer. The bills are folded based on denomination to allow the customer receiving the bills from the cash dispenser to be able to identify the denomination of each bill. In some embodiments, the cash dispenser is configured to automatically identify whether the customer prefers to receive folded bills and, in some embodiments, the cash dispenser is configured to fold and dispense bills according to customer preferences. |
| US08469257B2 |
Box for sterile products
This invention relates to a box for sterile products made of panels forming a belt (10) and of flaps extending the panels and forming bottom and top walls perpendicular to the belt, the belt and the flaps being cut in a foamed plastic material plate comprising at least two covering sheets (P1, P2) maintained mutually spaced apart by a plurality of struts (E) providing longitudinal mutually parallel cells. This invention is characterized in that at least one of the covering sheets is perforated (C) for allowing for a sterilizing gas to pass through the cover, and cuts (13) crossing at least one covering sheet of the plate are provided along hinging lines of the flaps on the belt for providing the communication of said cells with the outside when flaps (31, 32, 41, 42, 51, 52, 61, 62) are folded at right angle. |
| US08469255B2 |
Method for assembling aluminum alloy parts by welding
The present disclosure concerns a method for assembling aluminum alloy parts, in which(i) at least a first aluminum alloy part is procured in a solution heat treated, quenched, optionally cold worked, and naturally aged at ambient temperature or pre-aged temper, and at least a second aluminum alloy part,(ii) said parts are welded to obtain a welded assembly having a welded zone,(iii) cold working the entire welded zone between 0.3% and 5% is performed,(iv) the welded assembly thus cold worked undergoes post-weld aging to obtain a final metallurgical temper. |
| US08469253B1 |
Surgical staples attached to resorbable holder
One example of a surgical apparatus may include at least one resorbable feeder belt, and a plurality of staples fixed to that feeder belt. Another example of a surgical apparatus may include at least one feeder belt and at least one resorbable carrier detachably connected to a corresponding feeder belt, where the carrier includes a plurality of staples attached to it. An exemplary surgical method of treating tissue within the body of a patient may include providing a surgical instrument that includes an end effector moveable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, where the end effector includes an anvil and a staple holder pivotally connected to one another, where the anvil holds a knife; and at least one resorbable feeder belt and a plurality of staples fixed to the feeder belt, where the feeder belt extends into said staple holder; placing the end effector in proximity to tissue; deploying a plurality of staples into tissue; separating a distal segment of at least one feeder belt from a remainder of that feeder belt; and leaving that distal segment within the body of the patient. |
| US08469251B2 |
Stapling tool for hardwood plank staples
A stapling tool for hardwood flooring staples and hardwood tongue and groove flooring planks is disclosed. The tool has a body that includes a body base surface, a stop surface, a body top surface and a staple slot. The tool has a rod assembly that includes a hammering head and a staple driving head. A hardwood flooring staple, inserted into the staple slot, followed by the staple driving head, is guided by the staple slot. In response to impact force received by the hammering head from a head of a hammer, the staple driving head drives the hardwood flooring staple into an external angle formed by the tongue and the outside edge of the plank. The staple may be inserted from beyond a plane defined by the body top surface. The staple slot may be at an angle greater than 45 degrees, less than or equal to 85 degrees. |
| US08469249B2 |
Cart attachment for a backpack
A cart attachment for a backpack is described which includes a flap coupled to an upper back of a backpack. The cart attachment also includes a pair of hooks and loops strips to engage and disengage the flap. The cart attachment has two positions. In the first position, the flap is opened. In the second position, the flap is securely closed to accommodate a detachable wheeled cart. A second cart attachment may also be provided on a bottom portion of the backpack. |
| US08469247B2 |
Gas tank holder system
An apparatus for holding a gas tank includes a bottom element which is mounted to a supporting surface and a cover element pivotally mounted to the cradle. The cover element has at least one device for holding a gas tank. The apparatus further includes a system for rotating the cover element relative to the bottom element so as to raise the gas tank from a storage position to a substantially vertical operational position so that an individual can don the gas tank. In a preferred embodiment, the rotating system includes an L-shaped track attached to the bottom element, a raised portion with an aperture attached to the cover element, and a guide rod which has a first end in the aperture and a second end which engages with and slides in the L-shaped track. |
| US08469240B2 |
Dispensing fluids from containers using self closing valve, typically duckbill type valve
A dispenser for dispensing a fluid from a container T having an inlet for mounting to the container so as to receive therethrough the fluid, and an outlet which is adapted to open to release fluid therefrom when a predetermined pressure is applied to the fluid in the dispenser at the outlet, and to close to retain fluid in the dispenser at a pressure less than the predetermined pressure. A wall of resilient material at the outlet has one or more panels of elastomeric material provided therein, each panel being deformable to enable the adjacent resilient material to flex at the predetermined pressure and thus enable the outlet to open. |
| US08469232B2 |
Ice agitation and dispensing device and method
An ice dispensing system includes: a rotating bin having an inner surface, an outer surface, and an opening extending between the inner surface and the outer surface; at least one projection extending from the inner surface of the bin for directing ice within the bin; an input chute having a first end coupled to and in fluid communication with an ice making machine and a second end in fluid communication with the opening in the bin when the bin is in a first position; and an output chute in fluid communication with the opening of the bin when the bin is in a second position. The bin is configured to rotate from the first position to the second position and the opening has a geometry and size that directs ice within the bin and captures a regulated amount of the ice during rotation between the first position and the second position and dispenses the regulated amount of ice into the output chute when the bin reaches the second position. |
| US08469231B2 |
Mixing rotary positive displacement pump for micro dispensing
A dispensing apparatus, which is capable of delivering precise quantities of a liquid product less than one mm3 in size, includes a drive mechanism, a housing made up of at least two input channels coupled to a chamber made up of a first portion and a second portion. First and second component liquids are delivered via the first and second input channels respectively to the chamber and the first and second input channels are disposed so that interaction is hindered between the first component liquid and the second component liquid in either input channel. At least one feed screw with a helical thread is disposed in the chamber such that when the at least one feed screw is rotated by the drive mechanism the first and second component liquids are mixed to form a liquid product and the feed screw rotation also discharges the liquid product from the chamber. |
| US08469223B2 |
Strength container
A sealable container (210) for flowable material formed with top (212) and flexible and stiffened bottom (214) walls joined by front (216), rear (218), and opposite side walls (220, 222). The top wall including an openable lid (D) formed with an improved scoop holder (30) and a collar (300) received about a finish (282) of the front, rear, and side walls. The flexible and stiffened bottom wall (214) includes at least one sagittal stiffening channel (500) and an optional transverse stiffening channel (530). The openable lid includes a sealing wall (340) that cooperates with other improved container components to prevent spillage of the flowable material after the seal is peeled and removed. |
| US08469212B2 |
Safety cap and container with safety cap
There is provided a safety cap which requires manual dexterity for a cover opening operation and is difficult for an infant or the like to open a cover, in which a safety function can be released, as necessary. In the safety cap configured such that a part of an outer circumferential wall of a cap main body is formed on an inward elastically deformable operating plate, a pair of engaging means and engageable with each other are provided on a peripheral wall of a cover connected to the upper portion of the cap main body via a hinge and at the upper portion of the operating plate, respectively, and the engagement is released by elastically deforming the operating plate inward so as to open the cover, the operating plate can be fixed to the cap main body or a neck portion of the container except for the operating plate by the fixing member in the inward deformed state. |
| US08469210B2 |
Toy car connection apparatus and method
A toy train car including a coupler or hitch. The coupler includes a first connector (e.g., socket) configured to be connected to the train car and a second connector (e.g., ball) configured to be connected to the train car. The first connector can be positioned in the front or rear of the train car. The second connector also can be positioned in the front or rear of the train car. Each train car can include a first connector and a second connector. The first and second connectors are configured to couple together to link a plurality of train cars together. |
| US08469207B2 |
Drapery rod assembly
A drapery rod assembly adapted to be secured to a substantially planar surface comprising a right bracket and a left bracket. The right bracket includes a substantially gamma shaped wall portion having a slot, a mounting plate that is operatively arranged to be mounted to the surface. The mounting plate is operatively arranged to complementarily engage the slot and hold the wall portion. A substantially J-shaped extension portion that extends outward from the wall portion and terminates in a rod attachment end arranged perpendicularly with respect to the mounting plate and in parallel spaced apart relation to the surface. The left bracket is an enantiomer of the right bracket. A first and second rod, each rod includes a proximate and distal end. The distal end of the first rod is releasably engaged with the left bracket, and the distal end of the second rod is releasably engaged with the right bracket. |
| US08469206B2 |
Strap-on-hunting-hanger
A hunting equipment rest for use in a tree stand allows the hunter quick access to a weapon, thereby avoiding excess movement. A rigid member is affixed to the tree by a cinch strap. The apparatus is initially positioned such that a first trunk rest, fixed to the rigid member, sits against the tree horizontally, and a second pivoting trunk rest sits against the tree vertically. The second pivoting trunk rest is fixed to a pivot arm. The combination is attached to the rigid member by a pivot pin. The apparatus is locked into place by lowering the pivot arm, which levers the second pivoting trunk rest toward the tree to create tension in the strap. Attached to the pivot arm is a weapon hook, which swivels horizontally. The rest is suitable for a variety of weapons, and is easily installed or removed. The apparatus does not harm the tree. |
| US08469205B1 |
Product management display system with trackless pusher mechanism
A product management display system for merchandising product on a shelf includes using a trackless pusher mechanism that travels along a surface on which product is placed. The pusher mechanism of the invention also includes a pusher paddle and a floor that extends forward of the pusher paddle. A flat coiled spring or other biasing element may be operatively connected behind the pusher paddle and extend across the floor of the pusher mechanism and to the front of the shelf. In use, the product to be merchandised may be placed on the coiled spring and on the floor of the pusher mechanism. With this configuration, the pusher paddle is prevented from tipping or bending backwards during operation. The invention may be used with the merchandising of product on horizontal or non-inclined shelves or surfaces, gravity-fed systems, or systems that use gravity to urge product toward the front of the shelf. |
| US08469204B1 |
Remote control organizing system
A remote control organizing system includes a base that has a front edge. A lip is attached to and is coextensive with the front edge. The lip is angled back over a top side of the front edge. A panel has a bottom edge and a coupler releasably attaches the bottom edge to an upper edge of the lip. A plurality of the remote controls each has a back side. A plurality of securing members releasably attaches the back sides to a front side of the panel. At least one spacer is provided. The at least one spacer is attached to the panel and positioned between a raised portion of one of the back sides and the panel to approximately position a longitudinal axis of the associated ones of the remote controls into a parallel alignment with a plane of the panel. |
| US08469195B2 |
Storage container and tray
A tray and storage containers combination includes a tray having a bottom, side walls and an open top configured to receive a lid. A plurality of containers are configured to be arranged within the tray, each of which having a top wall and a bottom wall, two side walls and a back wall, each of the plurality of the containers having an openable lid. The containers are positioned in the tray to rest on their respective bottom walls so that the lids of the plurality of the containers face a side wall of the tray. |
| US08469194B2 |
Container apparatus with single-pill dispensing and related methods
Aspects of the disclosure involve a pill-filtering article that is located and secured inside a pill container. Using one system, an assembly of articles distributes one pill at a time in the form of a single-pill dispensing apparatus that includes a pill-storage container and such a pill-filtering article. The container has an inner wall, an upper portion with a rim region where a cap may be secured, and a lower portion for containing pills. The pill-filtering article has a size and a shape that facilitates securing the article inside the pill-storage container near the inner wall, above the lower portion, and below the upper rim region, and also configured with a plurality of channel-defining regions including a first channel-defining region through which one-pill at a time passes and including a second channel-defining region through which one pill at a time passes. |
| US08469189B2 |
Housing for portable electronic device
A housing for a portable electronic device includes a bottom shell and a plurality of protection blocks. The bottom shell has a plurality of corner portions, each corner portion includes an engaging recession recessed from an outer surface of the corner portion. The plurality of protection blocks are respectively assembled within the corresponding engaging recessions of the bottom shell, which provide protection in the form of having a double skin. Each protection block together with one corresponding engaging recession of the corner portion of the bottom shell cooperatively defines a buffering area. The protection blocks have an elastic coefficient great than that of the bottom shell and are located on each corner portion, at the point of the greatest vulnerability to impact damage. |
| US08469187B2 |
Watertight stretch covering skin for smokeless tobacco cans
A low profile silicone elastic molded covering skin form fits and seals around a smokeless tobacco container. A molded in circular sealing ring seals around the metal top of the container. The sealed top around the metal cover of the container and watertight bottom prevent air and moisture from contacting the tobacco through the bottom porous portion of the container and between the metal cover and the bottom. |
| US08469184B2 |
Package with handle
A package is for holding a plurality of articles. The package has panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the package. The panels comprise a top panel and at least one side panel foldably connected to the top panel. At least one opening is in the top panel for at least partially receiving at least a portion of one of the articles. A handle opening is in the top panel. A handle comprises a first handle portion and a second handle portion. At least the first handle portion is positioned relative to the handle opening for use in grasping and carrying the package, and at least the second handle portion is at least partially in contact with an interior surface of the top panel. |
| US08469182B2 |
Quick-remove conveyor belt, in particular for transporting food products to a packaging station
A belt conveyor configured to convey foodstuff products to a packaging station. The belt conveyor includes a stationary structure and a supporting surface comprising a plurality of plates removably carried by the stationary structure. The belt conveyor also includes a belt having a rectilinear conveying branch in contact with the supporting surface and a return branch. The belt conveyor includes a motor-driven roller co-operating with the belt for continuously feeding the belt in a conveying direction. The belt conveyor further includes a return assembly for sending the belt back between the return branch and the conveying branch. The return assembly comprising at least one return member supported at its ends by a pair of arms having at least one pair of fork-like seats. The belt conveyor further includes a control device for displacing the motor-driven roller between a working position and a disassembly position. |
| US08469181B2 |
Store-transport device for elongated rod shaped elements
A device having a variable-capacity store (3) formed with the aid of conveyors on two neighboring levels having one input channel (1), formed by a lower conveyor (4) and an upper conveyor (5), and one output channel (2), formed by an upper conveyor (6) and a lower conveyor (7), having a back plate (12), which is coupled with a slide (16) separating the levels of the store (3), equipped with a separating conveyor (17) so that they jointly effect to and fro motion, parallel to the horizontal conveyors, with the surface of the back plate (12), concave on the side of the store (3), is formed a the chain conveyor (13), characterized by the fact that the upper input conveyor (5) has at the end an arched part (8) pointing upwards, and the lower output conveyor (7) has at the beginning an arched part (9) pointing downwards, so that the two conveyors (5 and 7) approach each other with the arched parts (8 and 9). |
| US08469179B2 |
Machine for treating containers, in particular in a plant for bottling food products
A machine for treating containers including a turntable rotatably mounted on a frame and holding devices for containers mounted peripherally on the turntable. Each holding device includes a support mechanically connected to the turntable, at least two arms, rotatably connected to the support, with at least one holding body for grasping the container, an actuator mechanically connected to the arms to rotate them around the first rotation axis between an open position, in which the holding bodies are separated to receive or release the container, and a closed position, in which the holding bodies are close to one another to hold therebetween the container. Each holding body is connected to a support body of the respective arm through an articulation suitable for allowing the holding body to rotate around a second rotation axis lying on a plane substantially perpendicular to the first rotation axis of the arms and passing therethrough. |
| US08469177B2 |
Diverter for sorter and method of diverting
A positive displacement sorter and method of diverting articles includes providing a plurality of interconnected parallel slats defining an endless web that travels in a longitudinal direction, an upper surface of which defines an article-conveying surface and a plurality of pusher shoes. Each of the shoes travels along at least one of the slats in order to laterally divert articles on the conveying surface. Each of the shoes has a diverting member extending below the conveying surface. A plurality of diverting rails below the conveying surface are each capable of engaging the diverting member to cause the associated shoe to travel laterally to divert an article. A plurality of diverters are provided for selectively diverting at least one of the diverting members from a non-diverting path extending longitudinally along the sorter to one of said diverting rails in a diverting state. At least one of the diverters has a gate having a diverting surface. The gate is selectively moveable between the diverting state and a non-diverting state. An actuator moves the gate between the non-diverting state and the diverting state. The actuator may include a rotary actuator having a generally horizontal axis of rotation. An electronic divert control may be provided to apply an activation control signal to the actuator to move the gate between one of the states and the other of the states. The control monitors movement of the gate and adjusts the activation control signal as a function of the movement of the gate. |
| US08469175B2 |
Method and device for operating a passenger transport installation
A method for controlling an installation for a revolving passenger transport comprised of steps or pallets moving along a transport path that includes a plurality of drives. At least one drive is arranged in a reversing area and at least one further drive is arranged in an area of the transport path. Each drive is actively connected to a frequency converter. All of the frequency converters are monitored by a higher-order control. A defined drive pattern is memorized in the higher-order control. Measured values of the drives are transmitted to the higher-order control by individual frequency converters. The measured values are compared in the higher-order control with respect to each other. In case of divergences from the memorized drive pattern of the respective frequency converter, the respective frequency converter which diverges from a comparative value is corrected with aid of the higher-order control. |
| US08469174B2 |
Valuable document receiving and alignment method
A valuable document receiving and alignment method includes the steps of (a) a user inserts a valuable document obliquely into a transversely tilted tunnel, (b) a validation unit of the valuable document receiver senses the inserted valuable document and controls a delivery mechanism to hold down the valuable document, (c) a sheet-deliver wheel module of the delivery mechanism delivers the valuable document forwardly to a predetermined distance and the user releases the hand from the valuable document, (d) the sheet-deliver wheel module releases the valuable document for enabling it to fall downwardly to the lower side wall of the transversely tilted tunnel and to let one side edge of the valuable document be abutted against the lower side wall, and (e) the sheet-deliver wheel module delivers the valuable document to a validation position for enabling the validation unit to identify the authenticity and value of the valuable document. |
| US08469170B2 |
Clutch mechanism and clutch system having the same
When a pulley and an armature are coupled with each other, first and second permanent magnets place the movable member at a location where a magnetic resistance of an attracting magnetic circuit, which generates an attracting magnetic force to couple between the pulley and the armature, is reduced. In contrast, when the pulley and the armature are decoupled from each other, the movable member is placed at a location where the magnetic resistance of the attracting magnetic circuit is increased, and a magnetic resistance of a non-attracting magnetic circuit is reduced. Thereby, a coupled state or a decoupled state of the pulley and the armature can be maintained without an erroneous operation. |
| US08469161B2 |
Friction couple
A friction couple including: a first friction member that contains a metallic material and includes a first friction surface; and a second friction member that includes a second friction surface that contacts the first friction surface and that contains an oxidation film developer that accelerates formation of an oxidation film on at least one of the first friction surface and the second friction surface by oxidizing the metallic material when the first friction surface and the second friction surface contact each other. |
| US08469160B2 |
Disc brake adjustment device having a blocking device
A wear adjustor is provided for adjusting the wear of brake pads and the brake disc of a pneumatically operated disc brake having a brake application device that can be actuated via a rotary lever. The wear adjustor is able to be inserted into an adjusting spindle of the brake application device. The wear adjustor includes a clutch ring for coupling to a spring sleeve that is in engagement with the adjusting spindle. A blocking device is disposed between the adjusting spindle and the wear adjustor. The blocking device forms a stop for the adjusting spindle in the tangential direction relative to the rotating direction. |
| US08469159B2 |
Brake assembly
A brake assembly includes a brake pad, a bracket supporting the brake pad and having a first portion, a second portion spaced apart from the first portion, and a linkage interconnecting the first and second portions. The linkage is configured to transfer tensile loads between the first and second portion, but is characterized by the absence of any bending modes. The absence of bending modes prevents excitation of the linkage, thereby reducing sound generated during application of the brake assembly. |
| US08469150B2 |
Lubricant distributor
A lubricant distributor comprising a progressive distributor and a single-line metering valve is disclosed. An outlet of the single-line metering valve is in fluidic connection, or can be brought into fluidic connection, with an inlet of the progressive distributor. |
| US08469149B2 |
Self-retracting lifeline with disconnectable lifeline
A self-retracting lifeline is provided. In one embodiment, the self-retracting lifeline includes a housing, a drum, an activation assembly, a lifeline and a connector, the drum is received in the housing. The activation assembly is received in the housing. Moreover, the activation assembly is operationally coupled to the drum to selectively rotate the drum. The connector is coupled proximate an end of the lifeline. The connector has a connector passage. The connector passage is configured and arranged to selectively couple the lifeline to the drum. |
| US08469148B2 |
Ladder tray
A tray for supporting tools, paint cans, painting supplies and the like is pivotally held in a selected position by an elongated frame removably attached to a ladder rail. The ladder tray includes a folding shelf, a shelf support, a rail embracing frame, a hinge means connecting the shelf and support to the frame, and hooks for engaging the rungs of the ladder. A variety of apertures, depressions and/or raised areas exist on the tray in various sizes and shapes and are adapted for holding tools or for temporary placement of cans, bottles, jugs, tools and the like on shelf. When mounted, the ladder tray extends out from one side of the ladder and does not prevent a user from climbing up or down the ladder. It may be folded down alongside the rail of the ladder to a space saving transport or storage position or may be folded and removed from the ladder to store. |
| US08469147B2 |
Chest strap arrangement for an attachable arrangement
A chest strap arrangement for an attachable arrangement removably attachable to a user and having a first torso strap and a second torso strap. The chest strap arrangement includes: a strap member with a first portion and a second portion; a first buckle having at least one substantially horizontal slot through which the first torso strap extends; and a second buckle having at least one substantially horizontal slot through which the second torso strap extends. In one embodiment, the cross sectional thickness of at least a portion of an outer end area of a buckle is greater than the cross sectional thickness of at least a portion of an inner end area of the buckle. |
| US08469146B2 |
Panel for acoustic treatment comprising a junction between two parts and process for the reparation of a panel for acoustic treatment
An acoustic treatment panel includes two portions with edges spaced in one direction, and from the outside to the inside, a first acoustically resistive layer, a first alveolar structure, and a reflective layer, and a block inserted between the two edges which includes, from the outside to the inside, a second acoustically resistive layer arranged at the first acoustically resistive layer and a second alveolar structure. The block includes at least one sector of alveolar structures with sloped pipes whose height is less than that of the first alveolar structure, whereby the pipes are sloped in a direction such that the ends of the pipes are close to one of the edges of the portions at the first acoustically resistive layer, and the opposite ends of the pipes are moved away from the edge and the reflective layer so as to house connecting elements between the block and the panel. |
| US08469145B2 |
Multilayer sound absorbing sheet
A multilayer sound absorbing sheet including a film layer having through-micro bores and apertures, and a fibrous material layer disposed on the film layer is provided. A method of absorbing sound including providing the multilayer sound absorbing sheet of the present disclosure and positioning the multilayer sound absorbing sheet between an acoustic source and a sound-reflecting surface is also provided. |
| US08469140B1 |
Radial waveguide for double cone transducers
A radial waveguide assembly comprises a transducer section and a waveguide section. The transducer section includes first and second cone loudspeakers arranged coaxially and in an opposed relationship. A compression plug having two input surfaces is mounted between diaphragms of the cone loudspeakers. Channels from the first and second cone loudspeakers feed common sound chambers located in a belt around the circular perimeter where they connect to external ports. A radial; folded waveguide has a circular throat which connects to the external ports. |
| US08469139B2 |
Method of relieving power steering assist and a power steering system utilizing the method
A power steering system for a ground vehicle includes an accumulator that supplies high-pressure fluid through a control valve to a fluid motor that drives the steerable wheels of the vehicle. A normally open control valve between the accumulator and the fluid motor closes prior to the steerable wheels reaching an axle stop to relieve power assist. |
| US08469137B2 |
Working vehicle
Provided are a pair of left and right upper frames extending in a longitudinal direction; a mount frame supporting a transmission case below the upper frames; and vertical frames connecting the upper frames and the mount frame. Rear suspension arms are supported on the vertical frames. The vertical frames are configured to have upper members connected to the upper frames and lower members connected to the mount frame. The upper and lower members are separably connected. |
| US08469136B2 |
Hybrid construction machine
A hybrid construction machine includes an engine, a generator motor, and a hydraulic pump. They constitute a power unit, and are connected in series, with the generator motor being disposed between the engine and the hydraulic pump and with a center of gravity of the entire power unit being positioned closer to the generator motor than the center of gravity of the engine. A mount installation bracket is mounted at a side of each flange disposed at a corresponding side of the generator motor. A generator-motor-side mount device is mounted to the bracket. |
| US08469134B2 |
Engine starting controller
When a driver of a vehicle brings his/her detection part close to a case, a sensor detects a pulse of the driver at the detection part with an optical method, and takes an image of the detection part. An individual certification means determines whether the driver of the vehicle is an authorized person or not based on the image of the detection part taken by the sensor. An alcohol concentration determiner calculates an index value of a blood alcohol concentration of the driver based on the pulse detected at the detection part by the sensor, and determines whether the index value exceeds a criterial value of a drinking assessment. When it is determined that the driver of the vehicle is an authorized person and the index value does not exceed the criterial value of the drinking assessment, a permission means permits the driver to start an engine of the vehicle. |
| US08469133B2 |
Dual electric motor four wheel drive personnel carrier
Described is a battery powered, four-wheel, all-terrain vehicle, with independently operable, variable speed, bi-directional electric motors, one of which may selectively used to drive the front wheels of the vehicle, the other of which may be selectively used to drive the rear wheels of the vehicle. A front differential drive mechanism allows the front wheels to operate at different speeds. Front wheels of the vehicle are steerable through universal joints disposed between the front differential mechanism and each front wheel. A rear differential drive mechanism allow the rear wheels to rotate at different speeds. By selectively choosing whether to engage front and rear wheels and the direction they rotate, the vehicle may be operated as a four-wheel drive vehicle, a front-wheel drive vehicle, a rear wheel drive vehicle, with all four wheels disengaged, or even with front and rear wheels rotating in opposite directions. |
| US08469132B2 |
Body frame
A body frame for a motorcycle includes a seat rail formed from a circular pipe that extends horizontally rearward from an upper rear end of a main frame. A backstay formed from a square pipe extends obliquely upward and rearward from a lower rear end of the main frame. A bent part formed at a rear end of the backstay faces the seat rail in the longitudinal direction. Projecting parts are formed on both sides of a concave groove formed in an upper surface of the backstay. The projecting parts are offset in the width direction with respect to a center line of the seat rail and the backstay to allow the seat rail and the backstay to be easily welded. |
| US08469128B2 |
Variable-bias shutter
A variable-bias shutter system for controlling an airstream through an entryway includes a plurality of louvers. Each louver has a pivot axis and a louver face that includes a first portion arranged to one side and a second portion arranged to the other side of the respective pivot axis. The shutter system also includes a mechanism configured to select a position for the shutter system by rotating in tandem each of the plurality of louvers about the respective pivot axis. An area of the first portion that is exposed to the airstream is smaller than an area of the second portion when the shutter system is substantially closed. Additionally, the area of the first portion that is exposed to the airstream is larger than the area of the second portion when the shutter system is not closed. A vehicle employing the variable-bias shutter system is also disclosed. |
| US08469127B2 |
Drive system for an agricultural or industrial utility vehicle and method for operating a drive system
A drive system for an agricultural or industrial utility vehicle is provided. The drive system comprises a drive assembly that generates a mechanical torque, a first and a second electric machine, a first mechanical output interface used to drive at least one vehicle axle and a second mechanical output interface. A shaft driven by the drive assembly is rotationally connected to a shaft of the first electric machine. The second output interface is used to mechanically drive a tool which can be coupled to the utility vehicle. The shaft of the second electric machine can be reversibly connected to the first mechanical output interface. In order to allow for a connection modification of the second electric machine without producing interruptions or irregularities of torque, a third electric machine is provided the shaft of which can be reversibly connected to the first mechanical output interface. |
| US08469121B2 |
Polycrystalline diamond abrasive elements
A polycrystalline diamond abrasive element, particularly a cutting element, comprises a table of polycrystalline diamond bonded to a substrate, particularly a cemented carbide substrate, along a non-planar interface. The non-planar interface typically has a cruciform configuration. The polycrystalline diamond has a high wear-resistance, and has a region adjacent the working surface lean in catalysing material and a region rich in catalysing material. The region lean in catalysing material extends to a depth of 40 to 90 microns, which is much shallower than in the prior art. Notwithstanding the shallow region lean in catalysing material, the polycrystalline diamond cutters have a wear resistance, impact strength and cutter life comparable to that of prior art cutters, but requiring only 20% of the treatment times of the prior art cutters. |
| US08469120B2 |
Methods and apparatus for controlling cutting ribbons during a drilling operation
Drill bits are provided. The drill bits are of the fixed-cutter, rotary-type. The drill bits have a plurality of blades having cutting elements disposed therealong. Junk slots are formed between the respective blades. A knife opening is formed in at least two of the junk slots. Preferably, the knife openings are disposed substantially transverse to a longitudinal axis of the drill bit. The drill bit also has one or more ribbon cutters. The ribbon cutters cyclically protrude through knife openings in the junk slots in order to facilitate the fragmentation of cuttings ribbons moving through the junk slots during a drilling operation. |
| US08469118B2 |
Drilling fluid containing carbon nanotubes
A viscoelastic drilling fluid for drilling in underground rock formations, comprising (a) an aqueous and/or organic liquid base, (b) at least one weighting agent, in particulate form, with a mass per unit volume of at least 2 g/cm3, preferably at least 4 g/cm3, in suspension in said liquid base, and (c) carbon nanotubes with a mean diameter of between 10 and 30 nm and a specific surface in excess of 200 m2/g, preferably of between 200 m2/g and 250 m2/g and a drilling method using such a fluid. |
| US08469115B2 |
Electrical power tool
In a speed change device of an electrical power tool, a reset arm is provided separately from a switch lever, which arm is operated by a reset motor. Due to tilting motion of the reset arm, a lock ring can be returned to an unlocking position in which a second stage internal gear can be rotated, so that the speed change device can be rest to a high speed low torque mode. |
| US08469112B1 |
Dry sprinkler
A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system. The preferred dry sprinkler has a metallic disc annulus positionable within a passageway to skew a central axis of a face of the metallic disc annulus with respect to a longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler so that an expected minimum flow rate based on a rated discharge coefficient is provided. The dry sprinkler operates to provide an expected flow rate over a range of start pressures. The expected flow rate is based on a K-factor rating. The dry sprinkler provides an acceptable level of fluid flow rate from the expected flow rate based on the K-factor for a range of start pressures. |
| US08469111B2 |
Sprinkler cover
A sprinkler head cover including an end wall and a side wall extending from and around the end wall to form a cavity therebetween. The cavity is sized for receiving a deflector and arms of a sprinkler head. The side wall is adapted for engaging the sprinkler head to thereby releasably mount the cover to the sprinkler head. |
| US08469106B2 |
Downhole displacement based actuator
A technique facilitates actuating a variety of components in a downhole environment. The technique utilizes displacement based activation of an atmospheric actuation chamber. Activation of the atmospheric actuation chamber may be initiated via a variety of mechanisms, including manipulation of a restraining device, translation of a seal, and/or destruction of a seal. The atmospheric actuation chamber is coupled in cooperation with the corresponding downhole component to enable selective activation of the downhole component. |
| US08469099B2 |
Hydraulic fracturing of subterranean formations
Methods of hydraulically fracturing subterranean coal seams and formations resulting in improved permeability to stimulate Coalbed Methane. In one method, the coal seam is fractured using a proppant-containing fracturing fluid in alternating stages with an aqueous base solution that etches the fracture faces of the coal thereby creating channels for fluid flow. In another method, the coal seam is fractured using a fracturing fluid without propping agents in alternating stages with an aqueous oxidizing solution that is pumped at a pressure sufficient to maintain the fractures in an open position thereby etching the fracture faces to create channels for fluid flow. In yet another embodiment, the aqueous oxidizing agent solution is pumped into the formation at a pressure sufficient to create fractures therein and simultaneously etch the faces of the open fractures to thereby form channels in the faces for increased fluid flow. |
| US08469098B2 |
Formation treatment system and method
A formation treatment system includes an annulus spanning member having one or more openings therein. A tubular having one or more ports therein in fluid communication with the one or more openings. A sleeve capable of isolating or communicating the one or more ports with an ID of the tubular. A method for effecting precision formation treatment is included. |
| US08469097B2 |
Subterranean tubular cutter with depth of cut feature
A tubular cutter that cuts with extendable and rotating blades has its depth of cut limited upon getting through the tubular to be cut. In a preferred embodiment, the tubular has a loosely mounted member exterior thereto to be engaged by the rotating cutters. When such engagement happens the effect is that the loosely mounted member serves as a cover to the cutters to prevent them from cutting other structures beyond the tubular to be cut. The loosely mounted member is grabbed by the rotating blades for tandem rotation this preventing further cutting action. The load on the mill drops noticeably so that surface personnel have a signal to stop hydraulic pressure to the drive mechanism to allow the blades to retract and the cutter to be removed. |
| US08469096B2 |
Whipstock
A whipstock with a longitudinal axis includes a tapered face surface, at least a part of which is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis, for guiding a milling head as the milling head passes from a top end to a bottom end of the face surface. A deflecting arrangement protrudes from the face surface and has first and second deflection surfaces. At least a part of each of the deflection surfaces is raised above the face surface, and each of the first and second deflection surfaces are inclined at a greater angle with respect to the longitudinal axis than the face surface in the region of the deflection arrangement. The first deflection surface is located closer to the top end of the face surface than the second deflection surface. |
| US08469094B2 |
Additive for controlling cement slurry rheology
A cement composition for use in a wellbore comprising a cement blend and at least two polyvinylalcohols wherein the polyvinylalcohols have different degrees of hydrolysis such that the rheology of the cement slurry capable of being formed from the composition is stable during temperatures changes. |
| US08469093B2 |
Apparatus and method for autofill equipment activation
A bottom cementing plug is equipped to activate autofill float equipment. The bottom cementing plug contains an activation device that is released when the plug lands on the autofill equipment, then enters the autofill equipment, triggering the activation of check valves. The activation device may also contain a chemical substance that is released into the well when the activation device exits the bottom cementing plug. |
| US08469091B2 |
Method for production of high purity distillate from produced water for generation of high pressure steam
Embodiments presented herein provide an evaporation based zero liquid discharge method for generation of up to 100% quality high pressure steam from produced water in the heavy oil production industry. De-oiled water is processed in an evaporation system producing a distillate that allows steam to be generated with either drum-type boilers operating at higher pressures or once-through steam generators (OTSGs) operating at higher vaporization rates. Evaporator blowdown is treated in a forced-circulation evaporator to provide a zero liquid discharge system that could recycle >98% of the deoiled water for industrial use. Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide at least one “straight sump” evaporator and at least one hybrid external mist eliminator. Embodiments of the evaporation method operate at a higher overall efficiency than those of the prior art by producing distillate at a higher enthalpy which minimizes the high pressure boiler preheating requirement. |
| US08469090B2 |
Method for monitoring hydrocarbon production
A method is described for monitoring a fluid flow in a flow line from a location in a subterranean reservoir to a surface storage or production facility using the steps of employing sensors located in the wellbore, along the flow line and surface systems for monitoring flow conditions, establishing parameters which determine the hydrocarbon phases like liquids and gases, precipitation of solid components from the fluid flow as a result of changes in temperature, pressure and compositions, setting alert parameters relating to the precipitation parameters, and determining an operating profile representative of present conditions along the flow line, wherein the precipitation parameters, the alert parameters and the operating profile and extrapolation of the operating profile are represented in a single parameter space. |
| US08469088B2 |
Drillable bridge plug for high pressure and high temperature environments
A drillable bridge plug includes a mandrel having external splines disposed on an outer surface of the mandrel, a sealing element disposed around the mandrel, an upper cone disposed around the mandrel proximate an upper end of the sealing element, and a lower cone disposed around the mandrel proximate the lower end of the sealing element, wherein an inner surface of the lower cone comprises internal splines configured to engage the external splines. The drillable bridge plug also includes an upper and a lower slip assembly disposed around the mandrel, and an upper and lower ring assembly each including a first segmented barrier ring, a second segmented barrier ring, and a back-up ring disposed proximate sealing element. Methods include a method of setting the drillable bridge plug and a method of removing the drillable bridge plug. |
| US08469087B2 |
Interface for deploying wireline tools with non-electric string
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a method and/or apparatus for deploying wireline tools with a non-electric string. In one embodiment, a method of determining a free point of a tubular string stuck in a wellbore includes deploying a tool string in the stuck tubular with a non-electric string. The free point assembly includes a battery, a controller, and a free point tool. The method further includes activating the free point tool by the controller. The free point tool contacts an inner surface of the stuck tubular string. The method further includes applying a tensile force and/or torque to the stuck tubular string; and measuring a response of the tubular string with the free point tool. |
| US08469083B2 |
Heat exchanger with bypass valve
A heat exchanger for cooling a liquid has an inlet and an outlet for a liquid to be cooled. A bypass is provided that bypasses the heat exchanger. A valve controls flow of liquid into the heat exchanger or into the bypass. The valve has a valve seat, a valve cone, and at least one spring made of a shape memory material. The at least one spring counteracts a liquid pressure existing in the inlet. |
| US08469081B2 |
Corrosion resistant material for reduced fouling, a heat transfer component having reduced fouling and a method for reducing fouling in a refinery
A method and device for reducing sulfidation corrosion and depositional fouling in heat transfer components within a refining or petrochemical facility is disclosed. The heat transfer components are formed from a corrosion and fouling resistant steel composition containing a Cr-enriched layer having a surface roughness of less than 40 micro inches (1.1 μm) and a protective layer formed thereon. |
| US08469080B2 |
Digital processing method and device of large or medium-size sand mold
A digital processing method of a large or medium-size sand mold includes inverting a three-dimensional CAD model of a mold into a numeric controlling code, putting a prepared sand blank on a hollow grid-shaped processing platform to proceed the digital milling procedure, bringing away waste sand generated during processing by high pressure gas blown out from a nozzle near a cutter and the waste sand entering to a collecting device below the processing platform. A device for carrying out the method is disclosed. The method and the device reduce the processing steps. |
| US08469079B2 |
System and method for cleaning, testing, and reusing riser tubes with aluminum build up
A cleaning system and method for cleaning die cast metal waste from an interior of a die cast machine riser tube is provided whereby the cleaning system includes a riser tube stand, a heating means, a cleaning tool and leak test materials. The method includes heating the riser tube to a predetermined temperature to melt away the waste and cleaning the remaining residue with the cleaning tool. |
| US08469078B2 |
Retractable covering for doorways, archways, and the like
A horizontally retractable covering for an architectural opening includes a headrail supporting a collapsible panel of material, a fixed rail securable to a side of the architectural opening and to a side edge of the panel, and a movable rail secured to the opposite side of the panel while being movable along the length of the headrail. An improved trolley connecting the top end of the movable rail to the headrail is provided so as to permit uniform gathering of the panel material along the horizontal extent of the trolley for improved aesthetics when the panel is fully extended across the architectural opening. A stabilizing cord system maintains a parallel relationship of the movable rail to the fixed rail to assure desired movement of the movable rail while permitting the aforenoted uniform gathering of the panel material. |
| US08469076B1 |
Polarizer film peeling machine and polarizer film peeling method thereof
The present invention relates to a polarizer film peeling machine and a polarizer film peeling method thereof. The polarizer film peeling machine includes an operation platform and a conveyor device having a translatable surface. The operation platform forms a slit at a site where a polarizer film is peeled off. The translatable surface of the conveyor device is located under the slit. In peeling off a polarizer film, a glass substrate from which the polarizer film is to be removed is set to slide on the a top surface of the operation platform to pass through the slit and the peeled-off polarizer film is guided through the slit to be laid flat on the translatable surface of the conveyor device and move with the translatable surface of the conveyor device. |
| US08469075B2 |
Coating film peeling apparatus for resin material
A coating film peeling apparatus for resin material includes: a peeling cylinder, a peeling roll installed therein with a space for a peeling process along an inner wall of the peeling cylinder, a resistance lid disposed to block a discharge port of the peeling cylinder, and a pressure adjustment part for adjusting an outflow rate and internal pressure of the peeling cylinder. The peeling cylinder is constituted by a polygonal-shaped angular columnar body having, as coating film pass-through holes, rows K of small holes and rows L of small holes and projection rings (angular embossments) provided alternately in multiple rows along a direction perpendicular to a rotating direction of the peeling roll. |
| US08469074B2 |
Pressure control mechanism for adhesive thermal compression bonding machines
Mechanism for controlling pressure during the adhesive thermal compression bonding provides benefits of higher production yield, improved adhesive bonding performance and quality. Springs and pneumatic pistons are utilized to provide improved pressure control during the adhesive thermal compression bonding process. All production parts have certain geometric tolerances and automatically accommodating these tolerances increases production yield by reducing waste of incompletely adhesive bonded parts. The gaps caused by the parts tolerance are closed in a controlled manner using the mechanism and the pressure is controlled for effective adhesive bonding. |
| US08469069B2 |
Tread band with grooves provided with a noise-reducing device
A tread 1 having a tread surface 3 onto which there opens at least one cavity 2, this cavity being bounded by a cavity wall 20 comprising a bottom wall 21 extended by a side wall 22 intersecting the tread surface to form at least one edge corner 31, this tread being, over at least part of the wall of the cavity 2, provided with a plurality of supporting strands 4, each supporting strand 4 comprising two ends of which one end 41 is attached to the cavity wall 20, this tread being characterized in that the supporting strands 4 each comprise at least one branching formed by the attachment of at least one branching strand 5. |
| US08469068B2 |
Golf bag protector
This invention provides a one-piece golf bag wrap protector for protecting golf bags from damage when placed on golf carts. The protector includes a pair of ends, a plurality of spaced securing holes disposed proximate an upper surface thereon, a plurality of fastening means having one end secured within the spaced securing holes, and another end being cooperatively secured to an upper peripheral edge of a golf bag. Attachment means disposed proximate the pair of ends for securing the protector wrapped around the golf bag. A plurality of female fasteners near one of the ends and a male fastener positioned near the other end at their upper portions for engaging one another to accommodate golf bags of different sizes.A bungee cord associated with the spaced securing holes and golf hand cart handles for securing golf bags on golf hand carts to prevent movement there between. |
| US08469067B2 |
Detection systems for power equipment
Methods to detect when a human body contacts a predetermined portion of a machine are disclosed. The methods distinguish contact with a person from contact with other materials. The methods are particularly applicable in woodworking equipment such as table saws to distinguish contact between a person and the blade of the saw from contact between the blade and wet or green wood. The methods and woodworking equipment may include predictive blade stop algorithms that prevent unnecessary activations of a safety brake during coast down of a blade and continued protection in the event a main power switch is turned off. |
| US08469066B2 |
Collapsible funnel
A funnel assembly includes a tube defining a tube passageway and a tube opening. A funnel member defines a first funnel opening, a second funnel opening, and a funnel passageway that provides fluid communication between the first and second funnel openings. The funnel member is positioned such that the second funnel opening is within the tube passageway. The funnel member is selectively movable between a first configuration in which the first funnel opening is wider than the tube opening, and a second configuration in which the first funnel opening is narrower than the tube opening. |
| US08469060B2 |
Clamp and wrapping assembly for patching a pipe rupture
The present invention relates to a clamp that can be used for repairing a rupture in a pipe. The clamp includes a wrapping assembly comprising strapping that at least partially extends about the pipe, an adjustment device that is suitably in form of a claps for adjusting the effective length of the strapping about the pipe and a tensioning device that is suitably in the form an over center lever mechanism that is operable to place the wrapping assembly under different tensions. |
| US08469055B2 |
Device for driving a double seat valve capable of seat cleaning
A device for driving a double seat valve with two closing elements arranged in series and displaceable with respect to each other. A sleeve-shaped fourth drive piston pressurized by pressure medium, sealingly embraces a second drive piston on the circumference and can engage a catching connection in the direction of a first drive piston, wherein a second drive piston is adapted to be axially displaceable in a limited manner in both directions with respect to the first drive piston and in each case against the force of a second spring. |
| US08469054B2 |
Control device for plumbing appliances
The application relates to a control device comprising a control element that can be rotated on a first functional level, an electronic controller, an electric power supply, and a base for mounting the control device. Said control device is designed to control plumbing appliances comprising a water discharge point and an electronically controlled mixing valve that has a cold water connection and a hot water connection. The flow or the temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge point can be changed by rotating the control element. The control device according to the invention is characterized in that a second functional level can be assigned to the control element by means of an electronic or electric pulse. Said second functional level is mechanically identical to the first functional level. The temperature of the water discharged from the water discharge point can be changed by rotating the control element when the second functional level has been assigned. |
| US08469053B2 |
Flow control valve
A constant-flow valve assembly having a first passageway carrying fluid at a first pressure, a piston chamber, and a second passageway connected to the chamber and carrying fluid at the second pressure. A third passageway carries fluid at a third pressure. An adjustable valve is between the chamber and the third passageway, and an adjustable restrictor is positioned between the first and second passageways. An inlet portion of the restrictor assembly receives fluid at the first pressure and directs the fluid to a restrictor, and outlet portion directs the fluid to the second passageway at the second pressure. The restrictor is movable to adjust the position of entry and exit portions relative to the inlet and outlet portions to adjust a fluid flow rate to the second passageway to adjust the flow rate through the valve assembly. |
| US08469052B2 |
Control valve
A control valve comprises a valve housing (1) having an inlet side (17) and an outlet side (18). The control valve also has a pressure maintaining arrangement for maintaining a constant differential pressure between the inlet and outlet sides, as well as an amount control arrangement for setting the maximum flow through the valve. A pair of cylinder shells located in the flow path have cooperating recesses which provide an uncovered area forming an opening (25). One cylinder shell is rotatable relative to the other cylinder shell by a rotatable handle (13), whereby a larger or smaller opening (25) between the cooperating cylinder shells may be provided. Both cylinder shells are axially displaceable within a seat hole (8), resulting in an increase or a decrease of the opening (25). |
| US08469048B2 |
Pressure feedback shuttle valve
A shuttle valve 10 includes a valve body 11, a first inlet port 12, a second inlet port 13, an outlet port 14, and a shuttle poppet 15. The inlet ports 12 and 13 may be connected to different sources of fluid pressure, and the shuttle valve 10 connects the higher pressure one of the inlet ports 12, 13 to the outlet port 14 and isolates the lower pressure one of the inlet ports 12, 13 from the outlet port 14. First valve members 26, 46 selectively open and close fluid communication between the first inlet port 12 and the outlet port 14. Second valve members 27, 47 selectively open and close fluid communication between the second inlet port 13 and the outlet port 14. The shuttle valve 10 includes cushioning cavities 50 and 51 and feedback passages 56, 59 and 60 to reduce shock or water hammer in the system. |
| US08469045B2 |
Collapsible tent frame
A collapsible tent frame includes an upper connecting holder, a guiding rod, a plurality of poles, a plurality of first support rods, a middle connecting holder, a plurality of second support rods, and a lower connecting holder. Each of the plurality of first support rods has an inner end articulated to the middle connecting holder and an outer end articulated to an inner end of one of the plurality of poles. The first support rods provide an outward support action between the middle connecting holder and the poles to ensure that the tent won't be collapsed automatically after the tent is expanded, without the need for the fasteners of a traditional tent frame. The present invention is simple in structure and operation, and provides a better rigidity because there are four second support rods. |
| US08469044B1 |
Umbrella with multiple canopy structure
The umbrella includes a shaft, a lower canopy having a central opening, and an upper canopy thereabove over the opening. A first supporting assembly includes ribs, stretchers, and a runner and is connected to the shaft and first and second canopies to operably move the canopies between closed and open positions, wherein an inner portion of the upper canopy moves with the ribs. A second supporting assembly is connected to the ribs of the first assembly within the opening and connected to an outer portion of the upper canopy for operably moving the outer portion of the upper canopy between concave and convex positions while the lower canopy and inner portion of the upper canopy are retained in the concave position, such that the outer portion of the upper canopy covers the opening when concave to restrict air passage and exposes the opening when convex to permit air passage. |
| US08469042B2 |
Treatment system and method for the surface treatment of workpieces, particularly vehicle bodies
A treatment system for the surface treatment of workpieces, particularly vehicle bodies, includes a plurality of transport devices, on which at least one workpiece to be treated can be attached in a releasable manner. A conveying device moves the transport devices through the treatment system. At least one treatment bath is disposed in a first conveying plane of the treatment system and the transport devices with the workpieces arranged thereon are introduced into the treatment bath. At least one cleaning device, which is suitable and designed for cleaning the transport devices after the surface treatment of the workpieces, is disposed in a second conveying plane of the treatment system. The second conveying plane is offset in the vertical direction relative to the first conveying plane. |
| US08469040B2 |
Heat retaining curling system and method of styling
An improved hair styling device comprises heating elements and heat retaining clips inside the device's housing. The clips present concave inner faces, and form an enclosed space when in a closed position. A heat retaining means with an elevated heat capacity is incorporated into the clips adjacent the inner surface of the jaws of the clips; and also presents a concave surface to the inside of the clips when in a closed position. The heating elements comprise elongated heating rods with multiple heating locations along their length. Each heating location comprises an enlarged convex area on the surface of the heating rods. The heating locations are complimentary to the shape of the heat retaining means, and therefore heat the clips quickly and evenly. |
| US08469038B2 |
Smoking article and method
A smoking article provides one or more sheets of material that can be rolled and packaged, at least one sheet including cellulose. In one embodiment, cellulose and tobacco sheet material are separately rolled layers that can optionally be wrapped around a form casing (or pre-rolled inside) and then packaged. In another embodiment, the sheet is a laminated sheet of tobacco and cellulose layers that can be optionally wrapped around (or pre-rolled inside) a form casing. These sheets can be filled with custom tobacco to make one or more new cigars for an end user. In another embodiment, a complete cigar filled with tobacco material can be disassembled by an end user to produce tobacco and cellulose sheets, enabling the end user to form two new cigars using his or her own custom tobacco. |
| US08469036B2 |
Tobacco compositions
The invention features tobacco compositions and methods of their use and manufacture. Compositions of the invention may be based on a variety of technologies. Technologies include films, tabs, shaped parts, gels, consumable units, insoluble matrices, and hollow shapes. In addition to tobacco, compositions may also contain flavors, colors, and other additives as described herein. Compositions may also be orally disintegrable. Exemplary compositions and methods of their manufacture are described herein. |
| US08469030B2 |
Exhalation valve assembly with selectable contagious/non-contagious latch
An exhalation valve assembly that controls the pressure of exhaled gas in a ventilation system is described. The exhalation valve assembly includes an actuator module that may be fixed to the ventilation system and a valve module, removable for cleaning or disposal, through which the exhaled gas flows and that controls the pressure and release of the exhaled gas to the environment. Other components may also be incorporated into the assembly including a filter module, a flow meter and a condensate trap. |
| US08469029B2 |
Randomly interrupted breathing device
Apparatus for randomly varying the breathing resistance applied to human and animal subjects to improve their performance. |
| US08469018B1 |
Portable stove
A portable stove includes a frusto-conical body and a grid carried within the body together with an optional cooking surface for the smaller end of the body and stands to elevate the larger end of the body to facilitate establishing an air flow into the body. By rolling a flat piece of metal that has folds on both ends until the folded ends are interlocked, the stove's body is formed. Squeezing the formed body releases it to return to a flattened configuration for storage. The components of the stove can thus be stored in a compact configuration such as in a backpack. An optional oven includes a cooking chamber within a housing. The oven rests on the body and redistributes heat from the burning fuel inside the body to the cooking chamber base, body and lid so that it bakes evenly. The housing confines the heat to the chamber for improved cooking efficiency. |
| US08469017B2 |
Baking oven with a vapor channel in which a catalyst and a gas sensor are arranged
A baking oven includes a vapor duct configured to convey vapors generated in the baking oven, and a catalyst disposed in the vapor duct so that the vapors pass through the catalyst. A controller is included, and a humidity sensor is disposed downstream of the catalyst and connected in signal communication with the controller. The humidity sensor is a semiconductor gas sensor. The vapor duct is bounded, in a section of the duct between the catalyst and a location downstream of the semiconductor gas sensor, by an airtight duct wall in a direction transverse to a direction of vapor flow in the vapor duct. |
| US08469015B2 |
Low cost rescue launcher system
A rescue launcher system includes a reusable launcher and a one-time-use, pre-packed payload cartridge removably secured to the reusable launcher. The payload cartridge includes a plastic canister, a pressurization system located within the canister and selectively activated by reusable launcher, and a payload located within the canister and which is launched to a remote location upon actuation of the pressurization system. An actuation grip of the launcher selectively actuates the pressurization system, and an interlock is adapted to prevent actuation of the pressurization system unless the interlock and the actuation grip are simultaneously actuated. The payload can be a buoyancy device including a sealed tube and deflated foam within the sealed tube which inflates using internal vacuum after launch of the buoyancy device. |
| US08468994B2 |
Lubeless valve assembly for engine
A valve assembly includes a tubular valve stem guide and a valve having a valve stem slidable in the bore of the valve stem guide. A lower valve stem seal has an annular body surrounding the valve stem and a skirt sealing with the valve stem guide. An upper valve stem seal has an annular body sealingly mounted on the valve stem and a skirt portion overlapping with the annular body of the lower valve stem seal during the reciprocating movement of the valve stem so that the upper and lower valve stem seals cooperate to prevent flow of oil to the bore of the valve stem guide. The valve stem is coated with a diamond-like carbon coating or a hard nitride coating, and the valve stem guide is of powered metal construction with approximately 1% by weight solid lubricant such as molybdenum disulfide or tungsten disulfide. |
| US08468993B2 |
Manifold communication channel
A manifold, such as an intake manifold or a fuel injection manifold, for use in an internal combustion engine, as well as a method of operating such an engine, are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the manifold includes an input end capable of being coupled at least indirectly to an air input device, first and second intake tubes linking the input end to first and second exit ports, respectively, and a first communication channel linking the first and second intake tubes. The communication channel has a first width that is substantially less than a second width of at least one of the first and second intake tubes, and the communication channel links upper portions of the first and second intake tubes, while lower portions of the intake tubes remain separated by a wall. |
| US08468992B2 |
Igniter for igniting a fuel/air mixture in a combustion chamber, in particular in an internal combustion engine, by creating a corona discharge
Described is an igniter comprising an arrangement composed of an ignition electrode, an outer conductor coaxially enclosing the ignition electrode, and an electric insulator disposed between the ignition electrode and the outer conductor, via which insulator the ignition electrode and the outer conductor are interconnected, for igniting a fuel/air mixture in a combustion chamber, in particular in an internal combustion engine comprising one or more combustion chambers which are delimited by walls that are at ground potential, by creating a corona discharge in an area surrounding the tip of the ignition electrode. According to the invention, the ratio of the outer diameter d of the ignition electrode and the inner diameter D of the outer conductor is in the range of 0.3 to 0.44. |
| US08468984B2 |
Variable compression ratio apparatus
A variable compression ratio apparatus may include an external piston, a piston pin mounted in the external piston and a connecting rod, including an internal piston including a slot and sliding in an interior circumference of the external piston, wherein the piston pin passes through the internal piston and the external piston, a latching pin passing through the piston pin and selectively sliding therein, variable sliders disposed to selectively contact one of both ends of the latching pin, at both sides thereof to push the one of the both ends to the opposite side, and a support plate slidably supporting the variable sliders such that the variable sliders reciprocate perpendicular to length direction of the latching pin, wherein one end of a connecting arm selectively rotating may be connected to the variable slider and a sliding direction of the variable sliders may be controlled by rotation of the connecting arm. |
| US08468981B2 |
Dual type lancing device of secondary side of steam generator
Provided is a lancing device in which two guide rails and washing robots are installed in both directions of a hand hole, and each washing robot removes precipitates from the center of a steam generator, and therefore precipitates do not flow backwards, thereby completely removing precipitates. |
| US08468974B2 |
Aquaculture cage screen
A fish cage formed from a molecularly oriented single strand filament that is crossed and welded at the intersections to make a net or screen configuration. The filament being molecularly oriented by stretching ratio of about 3:1 and has a cross section of the filament being at least 2 mm2. The filament is an extruded thermoplastic material made from nylon, polyester, polyethylene, polyurethane or polypropylene having a preferred cross section in a D or oval shape to better facilitate welding the intersections. An antimicrobial or biocide may be added to the filament. The screen or net is preferably of a bright color such as yellow, green, white or a translucent white. The screen can also be formed by connecting small injection molded segments together thereby producing a larger screen. |
| US08468973B2 |
Excretion disposal sheet for pet animals
An excretion disposal sheet for pet animals that contains fragrance adapted to develop aroma effectively masking odor of excretion. The fragrance is in the form of a powder compound wherein the fragrance includes cyclodextrin and this particulate compound is sandwiched between an upper surface of a core material and a liquid-pervious sheet in the form of tissue paper overlying the upper surface. |
| US08468972B2 |
Birdfeeder and seed dispenser therefor
A birdseed dispenser and birdfeeder incorporating the same are provided. The dispenser has a base assembly mounted to a first opening formed in the sidewall of the birdseed reservoir, including a front plate having a second opening formed therein, a flange extending around the second opening and projecting away from the front plate, and an end wall supported by the flange such that the flange and end wall together define a chamber. The dispenser also includes an apertured piece received in the chamber having a first seed aperture of a first configuration and a second seed aperture of a different configuration. The apertured piece is moveable between a first orientation, which places the first seed aperture in a seed accessible state permitting birds access to the seed, and a second orientation to place the second seed aperture in the seed accessible state. |
| US08468969B2 |
Dimensionally stable durable thermal spray masking system
A masking system protects portions of a part, such as a turbine engine component, to be coated. The masking system has a base, a conduit positioned on said base, a part to be coated being positioned over the conduit, and an annular plate positioned over the conduit and resting on a first portion of the part. |
| US08468967B2 |
Wide-slot nozzle
A device for applying a flowable medium onto a level workpiece surface, including a housing forming an elongated outlet nozzle for the medium and an essentially cylindrical media distributor which is rotatably arranged in the housing and includes a slot that changes its position relative to the outlet nozzle by rotating the media distributor and whose outer surface forms sealing surfaces which rest sealingly against sealing surfaces of the housing. In order to develop the device such that low- to medium-viscosity media can be applied with a closed surface onto a level workpiece surface, the media distributor is a pipe whose interior is formed by a reservoir that can be fed with the medium via a feed opening and that the slot extends in such a manner that, by rotation of the media distributor, it can be brought from an open position, in which it forms an open, continuous opening essentially over its entire length from the reservoir to the outlet nozzle, to a closed position in which the continuous opening is completely closed. |
| US08468966B2 |
Anchor with measurement coupling
Anchor comprising a fluke which can be introduced into an anchoring ground in accordance with a direction of penetration by exerting a pulling force on an anchor line connected to the anchor, and a measuring coupling which during introduction of the fluke forms part of a force transfer between the anchor line and the fluke, wherein the measuring coupling is provided with a first coupling member that is connected to the fluke, a second coupling member that is connected to the anchor line, a hollow coupling bar that couples the coupling members to one another, wherein the coupling members in the longitudinal direction of the bar engage onto the coupling bar at different places in order to be able to deform it, and a measuring body extending through the hollow coupling bar and which at least at its ends is connected to the coupling bar in order to deform along with the coupling bar, wherein the measuring body is provided with deformation sensors for recording the deformation parameters of the coupling bar. |
| US08468960B2 |
Seeding machine with seed delivery system
A seed delivery system for use in a seeding or planting machine that removes the seed from a seed meter by capturing the seed therefrom. The delivery system then moves the seed down to a lower discharge point and accelerates the seed horizontally rearward to a speed approximately equal to the forward travel speed of the seeding machine such that the seed, when discharged has a low or zero horizontal velocity relative to the ground. Rolling of the seed in the trench is thus reduced. Furthermore, as the seed only has a short drop from the outlet to the bottom of the seed trench, the seed has little vertical speed to induce bounce. The delivery system uses a brush belt to capture, move and accelerate the seed. By capturing the seed and moving it from the meter to the discharge, the seed is held in place relative to other seeds and the planter row unit. As a result, the seeds are isolated from row unit dynamics thereby maintaining seed spacing. |
| US08468956B2 |
Collapsible transaction table
To provide a usable workspace for use at tradeshows, conventions and similar events, a collapsible transaction table is uniquely designed to provide transportability and flexibility regarding its setup. In its collapsed condition, the transaction table itself is contained and thereby easily transportable. In its expanded condition, components are provided to provide a usable transaction table which preferably sits at a countertop height but with which also may be modified to further extend into a countertop configuration. To achieve the counter top configuration, a pair of transaction tables are coupled with one another utilizing specifically configured bridging elements to thus create a stable and usable countertop. The transaction tables themselves include a collapsible base unit and tabletop elements which are removably attachable to the base units in an interlocking manner to provide additional stability. |
| US08468952B2 |
Dynamic weight management for a vehicle via hydraulic actuators
Methods and system are provided for a vehicle truck assembly which includes a spring coupling an axle carrier to a truck frame. In one example, the system comprises a substantially vertically-mounted hydraulic actuator which generates hydraulic forces between the axle carrier and the truck frame. The actuator includes a cylinder, a piston, and a piston rod. Further, the actuator is coupled between the axle carrier and the truck frame with longitudinal and lateral play so that the axle carrier can move laterally and longitudinally with respect to the truck frame while the actuator applies hydraulic force. |
| US08468946B2 |
Low shrapnel door breaching projectile system
A modified 40 mm grenade round designed to breach doors without throwing a significant amount of shrapnel into a building's interior or back toward the shooter. The modified round includes a forward extension on the ogive. The extension is rigidly connected to a thrust column which transmits an impact load directly from the ogive's nose cap to the striker on the fuse assembly. This configuration detonates the explosive charge within the projectile while the explosive is still well outside the door. This early detonation throws a pressure wave again the door's exterior, forcing the door inward. |
| US08468945B2 |
Blast treatment method and blast treatment device
A blast treatment method enables easy and safe blast treatment of ammunition having propellant provided with a warhead having a bursting charge and a propulsion unit having a propellant. Comprised are a first explosive arrangement step of arranging a first explosive 70 on the outside of a warhead 11; a second explosive arrangement step of arranging a plurality of explosive members 80 including a second explosive 84 on the outside of the propulsion unit 12; a warhead blast step of causing detonation of a bursting charge 14 by detonation of a first explosive 70, thereby blasting the warhead 11; and a propulsion unit treatment step of causing deflagration of a propellant 18 by detonation of the second explosive 84, thereby performing combustion of the propulsion unit 12; the first explosive 70 is arranged at a position covering the periphery of the warhead 11, a high-pressure field is generated on the periphery of the warhead 11 by detonation of this first explosive 70, and by means of this high-pressure field, divergence of detonation energy of the bursting charge 14 to outside this high-pressure field is suppressed, and moreover the explosive members 80 are arranged at mutually separated positions whereby divergence of the combustion energy of the propellant 18 to the outside from the explosive members 80 is allowed, by which detonation of the propellant 18 is suppressed. |
| US08468941B2 |
Method for thermal development with supporting surface for a development medium
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for thermally developing a photosensitive element. The thermal development method includes heating the photosensitive element to a temperature sufficient to cause a portion of a composition layer in the element to liquefy, soften, or melt; supporting a development medium with a non-rotating surface to provide contact of the development medium with the heated photosensitive element; and providing relative movement between the development medium and the non-rotating surface. |
| US08468932B2 |
Self-retaining end cap for braking booster
A brake booster includes a housing configured for mounting to the master cylinder of a braking system. The housing defines a bore for receiving a power piston and an end cap, with a return spring disposed between the head of the piston and end cap. The housing and end cap define a recess and a rib sized to be received within the rib but configured for an interference fit between the end cap and housing outside the recess. The interference fit is calibrated to require a force to push the end cap into the bore that exceeds the force generated by the return spring when it is compressed between the end cap and the piston head. The recess and rib at least temporarily retains the spring within the bore until the brake booster is mounted to the master cylinder. |
| US08468931B2 |
Electro-mechanical control system for positioning fluid motors
A fluid motor and a control system that includes an electronic controller and a mechanical servo to position a fluid motor. The electronic controller is combined with a non-electronic self storing position feedback device. The electronic controller is capable of providing accurate positioning and the positioning is maintained with a mechanical servo mechanism. The fluid motor can be either hydraulically or pneumatically operated. |
| US08468927B2 |
Vehicle and structure shield with a cable frame
An ordinance, such as a rocket propelled grenade, shield includes a net with hard points at select nodes of the net and cable guides on the side of the net. Cables under tension extend through the cable guides supporting the net typically in conjunction with a top cross bar, spaced top struts, and spaced bottom struts. This framis design facilitates entering and exiting the vehicle or structure. |
| US08468926B2 |
Ballistic armor system
An armor and a system for projectile neutralization. The armor has at least one serrated plate or louvered plate system. The serrated plate has a base, recessed lands, raised lands, and columnar projections extending from the recessed lands to the raised lands to form serrations on the serrated plate. The louvered plate system has a series of angled plates, a base, a top and a support structure connecting the louvered plates with the base and the top. The system has a serrated or louvered armor plate configured to reduce a kinetic energy of the projectile and re-orient the projectile upon rupture through the armor plate, and has a projectile-receptor configured to capture the projectile after rupture through the armor plate. Projectiles which impact on the serrated or louvered plate system have a kinetic energy thereof reduced and become re-oriented upon rupture through the serrated or louvered plate system. |
| US08468917B2 |
Machine tool and boring method
In a machine tool including a supporting device and a tool rest, a workpiece is supported rotatably around a first axis by the supporting device, and a rotary tool or a boring tool for boring operations to machine an internal surface of the workpiece is coupled, rotatably around a second axis, to a rotary shaft of the tool rest. The tool rest is allowed to be turned around an axis perpendicular to the first axis, and the boring tool includes a tool holder adapted to be coupled to the rotary shaft and a bit which is angled with respect to an axis of the tool holder, whereby a boring operation is performed with the tool rest positioned at a predetermined oblique angle with respect to the first axis. |
| US08468915B2 |
Compact tool box with ratchet driving function
A tool box includes a body having a front end spaced from a force-receiving portion. The body includes first and second sides and two lateral walls. The lateral walls, the front end, and the force-receiving portion are integrally formed as a single and inseparable component of the same material. The front end includes a compartment. A receiving space is defined between the lateral walls and has an opening in the second side or the force-receiving portion. A ratcheting mechanism includes a main body mounted in the body and a ratchet wheel rotatably received in the main body. The ratchet wheel is located in a quarter corner of the body adjacent to the front end and the first side. A driving groove is defined in the ratchet wheel for engaging and driving a shank to rotate. A bit-receiving rack is removably received in the receiving space. |
| US08468912B2 |
Production method for an insertion end, such as for a drilling, chiseling or boring tool
A production method for an insertion end, especially for an insertion end of a drilling, chiseling or boring tool, including the following steps: a longitudinal groove is formed in the outer surface of a preferably cylindrical end piece of a blank, whereby the longitudinal groove acquires an open end section on a front face of the end piece. The outer surface of the end piece is surrounded by a die tool that engages into the longitudinal groove outside of its open end section. The open end section is closed in that the surrounded end piece is compressed by means of a stamp acting on the front face. The segmented, multi-component die tool preferably lies flush against the outer surface of the end piece outside of the longitudinal grooves. |
| US08468910B2 |
Filler member for crankshaft
A filler member to be installed in a crankshaft including a crank web includes: an arm member, extending in a diametrical direction of a crank journal, and a weight member extending in a radial direction of the crank journal. The filler member includes: a fitting member, a connecting member mounted on the bodies. The fitting member is fixed to an outer side face of the crank web. The connecting member is mounted on the bodies to stride the arm member on inner side face of the crank web. |
| US08468909B2 |
Electric lever device
An electric lever device includes a detent mechanism 6 between the rotational center shaft 3 and the handgrip 2. The detent mechanism 6 includes a pressing unit 10 including a through hole 11 formed in an axis C1 direction of the operation lever 1, an extension coil spring 12 inserted into the through hole 11 and balls 13a and 13b provided on both ends of the extension coil spring 12 for generating pressing force in the axis C 1 direction, and a guide unit 20 for guiding movement in a circumferential direction of the axis C 1 and changing the pressing force by changing a guide width in the axis C1 direction to apply a load to the movement of the operation lever 1 together with pulling force of a twisted coil spring 30. |
| US08468907B2 |
Shift arrangement
A shift arrangement for a motor vehicle transmission has a multiplicity of gear stages. The shift arrangement has a shift shaft which is aligned in an axial direction and has a multiplicity of shift members which are designed to engage on shift sleeves which can be displaced axially in order to shift the gear stages. The shift shaft is mounted so as to be rotatable in order to select in each case one of the shift sleeves and so as to be axially displaceable in order to shift the gear stages. The shift members have in each case one driver device for coupling to the shift shaft. The shift shaft has a coupling arrangement which is designed to engage, depending on the rotational position of the shift shaft, in each case with a driver device of one of the shift members in order to couple that shift member axially to the shift shaft. The driver devices have in each case a multiplicity of at least three lugs which are aligned in the axial direction and which make it possible for the associated shift member and the shift shaft to be coupled to one another in a multiplicity of axial relative positions. |
| US08468905B2 |
Operating device for control valve
An operating device with an operating lever for a control valve includes: an input member connected to the operating lever; an output member connected to a slide spool of the control valve; and a swing link for relaying a displacement of the input member to the output member. The swing link is swingable about a swing shaft center on one end and is connected to the input and output members. A latch portion in the swing link is farther than a connecting point with the output member from the swing shaft center. A lock body is switchably operable between a lock position and a release position, and at the lock position, engaged with the latch portion at a neutral position to limit a swing of the swing link about the swing shaft center by which the control valve is locked at a neutral state. |
| US08468899B1 |
Wet natural gas sampling method and apparatus
A system for on-stream sampling of pressurized process gas such as natural gas or the like, said pressurized process gas having liquid entrained therein, or otherwise referenced as “wet”. The preferred embodiment of the present invention contemplates a system for obtaining an accurate sample of said wet process gas, as well as providing an apparatus for obtaining same. |
| US08468897B2 |
Measuring system for determining and/or monitoring flow of a measured medium through a measuring tube
A measuring system for determining and/or monitoring flow of a measured medium through a measuring tube, including: at least one ultrasonic transducer; and at least one control/evaluation unit, which, on the basis of measurement signals or on the basis of measurement data derived from the measurement signals, ascertains volume- and/or mass-flow of the medium flowing in the measuring tube; wherein the ultrasonic transducer has at least one electromechanical transducer element, which sends and/or receives ultrasonic signals; and at least one coupling layer in the region between electromechanical transducer element and measured medium, which coupling layer conducts the ultrasonic signals, and which ultrasonic transducer is acoustically coupleable with the measuring tube and at least partially fittable on the outer shape of the measuring tube and which electromechanical transducer element is flexible. |
| US08468894B2 |
Measuring cell and a method of use therefor
The present invention is a measuring cell with a base body, a measurement membrane which is arranged on the base body, and a measurement device, where a clearance between the measurement membrane and the base body is filled with a fluid which presents an increased heat conductivity (κ) compared to air. |
| US08468893B2 |
Pressure meter
There is provided a pressure gauge which enables swinging and rotation with respect to a pressure gauge body capable of visually confirming the pressure indication of pressure to be measured. A tubular pressure introduction section 6 through which the pressure to be measured is introduced into the inside is inserted in a pressure introduction port 21 and adapted to be rotatable with respect to a pressure gauge body 2 capable of visually confirming the pressure indication of the pressure to be measured, enabling swinging. A rotating cap 11 rotatable in a circumferential direction is also adapted to be rotatable with respect to this pressure gauge body 2, which can rotate together with a liquid crystal indicator 100 on a substrate 10 attached to the rotating cap 11. |
| US08468891B2 |
Tissue processing device with ultrasonic measuring chamber
A device is operable to measure the size of tissue particles. The device includes a reservoir for receiving tissue particles and an ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic transducer is operable to emit ultrasonic energy toward tissue particles in the reservoir. Control circuitry is operable to process ultrasonic energy received from the ultrasonic transducer to determine the size of tissue particles in the reservoir. If the tissue particles are larger than a predetermined size range, the particles may be minced to reduce their size. If the tissue particles are smaller than a predetermined size range, the particles may be disposed of. It the tissue particles have a size within a predetermined range, they may be processed further, such as by stimulating the tissue particles and dewatering the tissue particles. The tissue particles may then be incorporated in a medical fluid and be therapeutically administered to a patient. |
| US08468889B2 |
Apparatus for the non-destructive testing of samples using ultrasonic waves
An apparatus provides for the non-destructive testing of samples. The samples can in this respect also be formed from critical materials which change their properties during manufacture, for example on a hardening or solidification. In an apparatus in accordance with the invention, at least one ultrasonic pressure wave transducer is arranged at a forward cell. The forward cell is filled with a liquid and is placed with an open side at one side onto a surface (A) of a conversion prism, in the form of a solid body, so that the liquid and the surface (A) are in touching contact. The conversion prism is placed with a further surface (B) onto a surface of a sample to be tested. At least one ultrasonic pressure wave transducer can be positioned or is positioned at the forward cell at at least two positions (T1, T2) so that the positions are arranged at an equal spacing from the center of the surface (A) of the conversion prism, said surface being placed onto the sample. |
| US08468886B2 |
Yaw rate sensor and method for operating a yaw rate sensor
A yaw rate sensor includes a substrate which has a main plane of extension and a Coriolis element which is movable relative to the substrate. The yaw rate sensor has an excitation arrangement for exciting a drive oscillation of the Coriolis element along a first direction parallel to the main plane of extension. The yaw rate sensor has a detection arrangement for detecting a Coriolis deflection of the Coriolis element along a third direction which is perpendicular to the main plane of extension. In addition, the yaw rate sensor has a quadrature compensation structure which includes a comb electrode structure and a plate capacitor structure. |
| US08468885B2 |
Dispense volume monitor for arrays
The reagent volume dispensed into wells (3) of a test plate (2) is determined by moving an upper electrode (5) of specific profile into each well to an optimum position above the well bottom, by determining the capacitance value of the capacitor formed by the upper electrode in each well and a lower electrode (6) arranged adjacent to the lower outside surface (11) of the test plate below each well, and by comparing the measured capacitance value with reference calibration values. |
| US08468880B2 |
Test stand for motor vehicles
A test stand for motor vehicles, in particular a roller type or belt conveyor brake test stand, comprising a measuring device (2) that has a measuring sensor (1) for collecting test data, is characterized with respect to an especially flexible and quasi location independent operability by a chargeable energy accumulator (3) for providing the electric energy required to operate the measuring device (2) and by a feeding device (4) for feeding energy into the energy accumulator (3). |
| US08468878B2 |
Method and arrangement for fully automatic function checking of internal combustion engines
The invention relates to a method or an arrangement for function checking of internal combustion engines in motor vehicles, in which an external testing and measuring system is connected via a diagnostic interface to an on-board diagnostic and control system, and after the start of the testing process, the testing system triggers control signals to adjust the defined operating conditions of the internal combustion engine, and performs and documents analyses. To ensure an automatic testing process, it is proposed to launch a safety routine in the diagnostic and control system that interrupts the automatic testing process when certain signals are present from on-board control and/or operating devices. |
| US08468874B2 |
Laser indicator for remote measuring devices and methods therefor
Provided is a device for use in locating the origin of a phenomenon of interest, including a sensor capable of detecting the presence of the phenomenon of interest and generating a detection signal in response thereto. The device also includes a phenomenon origin locator to monitor the detection signal and project light toward the origin when the detection signal satisfies a selected criteria level, thereby indicating the origin of the phenomenon of interest. |
| US08468873B2 |
Method for characterising the knock-resistance of fuels
A method for characterizing the knock-resistance of a fuel using a test engine is disclosed, wherein the time versus cylinder pressure curve of the test engine during combustion of the fuel in the test engine is determined. This pressure signal is, in turn, compared with the corresponding pressure signal of at least one standard fuel of known knock-resistance. |
| US08468871B2 |
System and method for monitoring parameters in containers
A system for measuring parameters in a container is disclosed. A system for measuring multiple parameters includes a container having a solution, at least one sensor in conjunction with a tag is in proximity to an impedance analyzer and a reader that constitute a measurement device. The at least one sensor is configured to determine at least one parameter of the solution. The tag is configured to provide a digital ID associated with the sensor, where the container is in proximity to the reader and an impedance analyzer. The impedance analyzer is configured to send and receive a given range of frequencies from the sensor, based on the parameter and calculate parameter changes based on the response. |
| US08468865B2 |
Building panel and panel crimping machine
An improved panel crimping machine for crimping a building panel having a curved central portion is disclosed. The building panel includes a novel curved central portion connected to two diverging inclined side wall portions in lieu of a straight central portion. Replacing the straight curved portion with a curved portion provides the building panel with increased strength and rigidity, thereby allowing the building panel to withstand increased positive and negative bending moments. Thus, a building constructed of panels having such curved central portions will reduce the present design constraints and increase the size and shape of buildings constructed of such panels. |
| US08468860B2 |
Multiple laundry machine
A multiple laundry machine is provided. The multiple laundry machine may include multiple washing spaces capable of separately washing relatively small amounts of laundry in each. The multiple laundry machine may include a casing, and a plurality of individual laundry machines arranged in the casing. Each of the individual laundry machines provided in the casing may conduct washing operations in a different manner so as to provide washing capability of different sizes and types of loads. |
| US08468859B2 |
Drum type washing machine
A drum type washing machine including a balancer capable of rapidly reducing vibration of a spin tub. The drum type washing machine includes a spin tub which is rotated by receiving rotational force from a driving motor through a rotating shaft, a rear balancer having an annular shape and being coupled to the spin tub, and a shaft flange provided at a center portion thereof with the rotating shaft and coupled to the spin tub so as to uniformly transfer the rotational force to the spin tub. The rear balancer is supported on a rear surface of a rear cover by the shaft flange. Thus, the balls accommodated in the balancer are prevented from moving out of the balancer, even if the balancer is broken due to long-period use. |
| US08468854B2 |
Sinker
The main objective of the present invention is to provide a sinker that can produce pile loops of different lengths. The sinker has a nib and a belly formed separately on one end thereof. A throat is formed between the nib and the belly. The nib has a bulge formed on a top edge thereof. The throat has a recess formed on a top edge of the belly. With the bulge and the recess, multiple vertical gaps of different lengths are provided. When yarns are placed at different relative positions, pile loops of different lengths are made by the same sinker. Thus, the sinker results in fabrics with variant appearances and good tactile impression. |
| US08468852B2 |
Soot pressing for optical fiber overcladding
A method and an apparatus for making an optical fiber preform comprising the steps of (i) depositing a plurality of rods are deposited into an inner cavity of an apparatus; (ii) depositing particulate glass material in the inner cavity between the rods and the inner wall; and (iii) applying pressure against the particulate glass material to pressurize the particulate glass material against the plurality of rods. |
| US08468851B2 |
Vacuum degassing apparatus and vacuum degassing method for molten glass
A vacuum degassing apparatus for molten glass is comprised of an uprising pipe, a vacuum degassing vessel, a downfalling pipe, an upstream side pit that supplies molten glass to the uprising pipe, and a downstream side pit that receives molten glass from the downfalling pipe. The vacuum degassing apparatus for molten glass is further comprised of a separating mechanism that separates a part of molten glass moving from the downfalling pipe to the downstream side pit, and a returning pipe that returns separated molten glass to the upstream side pit. |
| US08468850B2 |
Bending method for a glass plate and bending apparatus for a glass plate
In a preliminary forming step, positioning of a glass sheet is facilitated, and generation of a hinge mark by a flapping mechanism and generation of excessively bent portions, are prevented at the same time. |
| US08468848B2 |
Refrigerator
The present invention relates to a refrigerator in which an evaporator is mounted in an inside of a barrier partitioning a freezing chamber and a refrigerating chamber. With the refrigerator according to the embodiment of the present invention, the evaporator for cooling the refrigerating chamber is received in the barrier portioning the freezing chamber and the refrigerating chamber, making it possible to increase inner capacity of the refrigerating chamber. |
| US08468847B2 |
Aircraft air-conditioning unit and method for operating an aircraft air-conditioning unit
An aircraft air-conditioning unit (10) includes a compressor (18) and a motor (20) driving the compressor (18). A fuel cell system (24) is connected directly to a control unit (22) for controlling the motor (20) driving the compressor (18), wherein the control unit (22) is adapted to convert electrical energy directly generated by the fuel cell system (24) into corresponding electrical control signals for controlling the motor (20) driving the compressor (18). In a method for operating an aircraft air-conditioning unit (10), which includes a compressor (18) and a motor (20) driving the compressor (18), a control unit (22) for controlling the motor (20) driving the compressor (18), which is directly connected to a fuel cell system (24), converts electrical energy directly generated by the fuel cell system (24) into corresponding electrical control signals for controlling the motor (20) driving the compressor (18). |
| US08468843B2 |
Temperature control system in a parked vehicle
An air-conditioning system for vehicle temperature control incorporates a thermostat having contacts, and a circulation contour, including a condenser, an expansion valve essentially connected with the condenser, an evaporator connected sequentially with the expansion valve, a first tee splitter connected to a common line, a second tee splitter connected to the condenser, a main compressor connected with the first tee splitter and with the second tee splitter, a supplemental compressor connected with the first tee splitter and the second tee splitter. The supplemental compressor is operatively controlled by the thermostat and powered by a supplemental battery. In embodiments, the supplemental compressor is electrically connected with the supplemental battery and operatively controlled by a control circuitry including a power relay, an air-condition relay, and the contacts of thermostat. The proposed system reduces pollutions and saves energy. |
| US08468842B2 |
DX system having heat to cool valve
Alternative means of inhibiting frosting in the interior heat exchanger of a DX system when switching from the heating mode to the cooling mode, plus an improved insulation and heat transfer means for vertically oriented sub-surface geothermal heat transfer tubing, as well as a means to protectively coat the sub-surface metal tubing of a DX system in a corrosive environment. |
| US08468838B2 |
Thermoacoustic refrigerators and engines comprising cascading stirling thermodynamic units
The present invention includes a thermoacoustic assembly and method for improved efficiency. The assembly has a first stage Stirling thermal unit comprising a main ambient heat exchanger, a regenerator and at least one additional heat exchanger. The first stage Stirling thermal unit is serially coupled to a first end of a quarter wavelength long coupling tube. A second stage Stirling thermal unit comprising a main ambient heat exchanger, a regenerator, and at least one additional heat exchanger, is serially coupled to a second end of the quarter wavelength long coupling tube. |
| US08468835B2 |
Hybrid gas turbine engine—electric motor/generator drive system
A method of operating a drive system for a load is disclosed. The drive system may have an electric motor/generator and a gas turbine engine. The engine may have a combustor, and main and pilot flow paths via which fuel is supplied to the combustor. The engine may be operable in low and standard emissions modes. A proportion of the fuel that is supplied to the combustor via the pilot flow path may be greater in the standard emissions mode than in the low emissions mode. The method may include determining an engine power requirement of the load, and whether the engine power requirement of the load is sufficiently large to operate the engine in the low emissions mode. Additionally, the method may include operating the electric motor/generator if the engine power requirement of the load is not sufficiently large to operate the engine in the low emissions mode. |
| US08468833B2 |
Burner arrangement, and use of such a burner arrangement
A burner arrangement includes a tubular mixing tube extending along an axis and configured to mix fuel and air, the mixing tube opening into a combustion chamber in a direction of flow; and a film air ring disposed in the mixing tube and arranged concentrically to the axis, the film air ring configured to prevent a backfiring of the fuel disposed in the mixing tube and to generate or reinforce an air film near the wall, wherein the film air ring has at least one annular gap concentric to the axis and configured to inject air. |
| US08468831B2 |
Lean direct injection for premixed pilot application
Embodiments of this invention provide a premixed pilot assembly for use with a fuel nozzle for a turbine. The level of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emitted by the pilot is reduced by mixing the fuel and air fast, at the end of the pilot nozzle, thereby avoiding significant zones of rich fuel and air mixtures. The air is mixed with the fuel through the use of openings in a first cylinder and a second cylinder, one of which carries air and one of which carries pilot fuel. The openings can be configured as necessary to obtain a desired effect on the pilot. |
| US08468830B2 |
Inlet air heating and cooling system
A heating and cooling system for inlet air of a turbine compressor. The heating and cooling system may include a fluid coil positioned about the turbine compressor and a thermal energy storage tank. The fluid coil and the thermal energy storage tank are in fluid communication such that fluid is both provided to the fluid coil from the thermal energy storage tank for exchanging heat with the inlet air and returned to the thermal energy storage tank without further heat exchange. |
| US08468826B2 |
Axial turbine wheel
A turbocharger including a turbine wheel having a hub-to-tip ratio of no more than 60% and blades with a high turning angle, a turbine housing forming an inwardly spiraling primary-scroll passageway that significantly converges to produce highly accelerated airflow into the turbine at high circumferential angles, and a two-sided parallel compressor. The compressor and turbine each produce substantially no axial force, allowing the use of minimal axial thrust bearings. |
| US08468821B2 |
Dual-loop control systems and methods for a sequential turbocharger
A system for a sequential turbocharger includes a loop control module, a set-point module, and a loop operation module. The loop control module generates a loop control mode signal based on an engine speed signal and an engine load signal. The loop control mode signal indicates one of a single-loop control mode and a dual-loop control mode. The set-point selection module determines at least one of a boost pressure set-point value and an exhaust pressure set-point value based on the loop control mode signal, the engine speed signal, and an engine torque signal. The loop operation module operates at least one of a variable geometry turbine and a bypass valve of the sequential turbocharger during the single-loop control mode based on the boost pressure set-point value, and during the dual-loop control mode based on the boost pressure set-point value and the exhaust pressure set-point value. |
| US08468818B2 |
HST cooling circuit
There are provided: an HST hydraulic circuit that is formed through a closed circuit connection of a variable displacement hydraulic pump 2 and first and second variable displacement hydraulic motors 3 and 4; a charge pump 6 that replenishes the HST hydraulic circuit with hydraulic oil; a cooling circuit through which an excess of the hydraulic oil that has been replenished from the charge pump 6 to the HST hydraulic circuit is returned to a reservoir through the hydraulic pump 2, the first hydraulic motor 3, and the second hydraulic motor 4; a hydraulic source 7 that supplies hydraulic oil to an hydraulic device other than the first and second hydraulic motors; and a merge circuit through which a portion of hydraulic oil from the hydraulic source 7 is merged into an intermediate oil line 22 that lies downstream of the first hydraulic motor 3 and upstream of the second hydraulic motor 4 in the cooling circuit. |
| US08468814B2 |
Compressed air energy storage system utilizing two-phase flow to facilitate heat exchange
A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control. |
| US08468812B1 |
Exhaust scavenging system
An exhaust scavenging system for an internal combustion engine including exhaust passages extending from the engine and an exhaust outlet system. A collector extends from the bundled ends of the exhaust passages to the exhaust outlet system. A central exhaust passage extends into the collector from a central position among the bundled exhaust passage outlets. The transverse cross-sectional area of the central exhaust passage through at least half of the transition collector portion from the outlet plane is not substantially less than the transverse cross-sectional area of the central exhaust passage at the outlet plane in the extended position and does decrease continuously through the transition collector portion from the outlet plane in the retracted position. |
| US08468807B2 |
Exhaust gas purification system and exhaust gas purification method
An exhaust gas purification system which, in a wider temperature range, can reduce and remove nitrogen oxides in an exhaust gas by a reduction catalyst with the use of hydrogen as a reducing agent is provided. The exhaust gas purification system has an electronic control device (41) which controls an EGR valve (4) and an EGR pipe (5) so that the concentration of oxygen in the exhaust gas obtained from a data map based on the state of an engine (10) becomes less than a predetermined value, and which controls a microreactor (19) so that hydrogen is added to the exhaust gas when the concentration of oxygen in the exhaust gas is less than the predetermined value. |
| US08468802B2 |
Exhaust gas system
An exhaust gas system for combustion engines is provided having at least one exhaust gas duct, in particular an exhaust pipe, and having an exhaust gas treatment device such as an oxidation catalyst, an SCR catalyst or a diesel particulate filter downstream of the exhaust gas duct, wherein, to improve the efficiency of downstream gas treatment devices, at least one secondary flow duct, in particular a secondary flow pipe, is provided in the exhaust gas duct with a cross-section reduced with respect to the exhaust gas duct which imparts coerced guidance of some of the exhaust gas flow differing from the actual exhaust gas flow. |
| US08468789B2 |
Rotary disk crop harvesting header with an auger member
A crop header has generally horizontal flail disks mounted for driven rotation about generally upright axes. A pair of conditioner rolls is mounted in a discharge opening. A crop converging system includes two over-shot auger elements defined by a common auger shaft with an auger flight carried thereon arranged generally longitudinal of the cutter bar so as to carry the cut crop longitudinally of the cutter bar to the entrance opening. Each auger element is arranged with a forwardmost tangent to the auger flight located behind the axes of the rotary disks and with an outer end thereof spaced outwardly of the respective end of the entrance mouth. The common auger shaft is driven by a common rotary drive with the bottom roll of the conditioner rolls. The augers terminate inwardly of the outer end of the cutter bar to locate the drive inboard of the end plates. |
| US08468788B1 |
Lawn mower system
A deck having a horizontally oriented top wall and a vertically oriented side wall and an opened bottom. The deck has a front and a back. A pair of front wheels extend from the side wall adjacent to the front. A pair of rear wheels extending from the side wall adjacent to the rear. An open front is formed in the side wall forwardly of the front wheels. An open side is formed in the side wall laterally between a front and adjacent rear wheel. An open rear is formed in the side wall rearwardly of the rear wheels. A motor is mounted in a central region of the deck with a rotatable drive shaft extending vertically downwardly therefrom. A rotatable blade is mounted on the drive shaft. |
| US08468786B2 |
Method for forming a reclose mechanism on a reclosable package
A food package for sliced food products to be maintained with a fluffed appearance, the package including a rigid base member forming a compartment for receiving the food product and a rigid lid sealed to the compartment. Advantageously, the base member includes a bottom wall and side wall portions that are configured to engage the food product to hold the slices in a fluffed arrangement thereof. Preferably, one or more tapered side wall portions hold the food product upwardly toward the lid and inwardly toward a center of the package. In preferred embodiments, the base member and lid provide a rigid-rigid construction of the food package. In preferred embodiments, the food package is also configured to stand-up in a vertical display orientation and does not require the food product be contained within a sealed pouch within the compartment. |
| US08468779B2 |
Method and apparatus for positioning, inflating, and sealing a mailer comprising an inner inflatable liner
The presently disclosed subject matter relates generally to an apparatus for forming and/or sealing an inflatable mailer. Particularly, the disclosed apparatus comprises an inflation assembly that comprises upper and lower support arms and at least one inflation nozzle. In addition, the disclosed apparatus comprises a sealing assembly comprising upper and lower support arms, upper and lower heat seal jaws, two solenoids, and at least one heat seal element. |
| US08468774B2 |
Structural building components and method of constructing same
Structural building components and a method of constructing the same enable improved beams that can be constructed at a place of use. The method includes providing a first flange (16) and a second flange (18) defining a central beam axis (55). A number of separately formed web sections (12) are provided, each having two convergent side walls (42) and a central wall (40) extending between converging ends of the side walls (42). The web sections (12) are arranged side by side in an alternating arrangement wherein the central walls (40) of adjacent web sections (12) are spaced substantially parallel to each other and are transversely staggered relative to the central beam axis (55). The side walls of adjacent web sections (12) are connected to one another, and the web sections (12) are connected to both the first flange (16) and second flange (18). |
| US08468773B2 |
Carved solid face doors having a raised panel design and methods of fabrication
Carved solid face doors having a raised panel design and methods of manufacture thereof are provided herein. In some embodiments, a carved, solid face door may include a solid base having a face and an opposing rear surface, wherein the face has a raised panel design carved into at least one section of the face, the raised panel design framed by flat portions carved into the face; and one or more overlays attached to the flat portions of the face and framing the raised panel to emulate the appearance of a floating raised panel construction. |
| US08468770B2 |
Floor covering product and method of using same
The invention comprises an improved floor covering product. The floor covering product comprises a floor covering material having a face surface and a back surface. On the back surface of the floor covering material is a layer of polyurethane having a cure index of between approximately 70 and 90. A method of using the floor covering product is also disclosed. |
| US08468769B2 |
Reversible decorative moldings between floor and wall or wall and ceiling
A reversible molding is disclosed having multiple decorative face which differ from one another by at least one property. Such properties can include texture, color, pattern or design or shape. The molding can suitably be used at the joint between a wall and floor or between a wall and ceiling. In one embodiment, the moldings are manufactured from wood, MDF or HDF, with a decorative surface selected from foil, laminate, veneer, paint, stain or digital printing. |
| US08468768B2 |
Anchoring in a construction model
A method suitable for anchoring an anchoring element in an object, which anchoring element is compressible in the direction of a compression axis under local enlargement of a distance between a peripheral anchoring element surface and the compression axis. The anchoring element has a coupling-in face which serves for coupling the mechanical vibrations into the anchoring element, which coupling-in face is not parallel to the compression axis. The anchoring element further includes a thermoplastic material which in areas of the peripheral surface enlargement forms at least a part of the surface of the anchoring element, the method includes the steps of: providing a bore in the object; positioning the anchoring element in the bore; and coupling the compressing force and the mechanical vibrations through the coupling-in face into the positioned anchoring element. |
| US08468766B1 |
Precast concrete flange connection and method of use
A metal flange connection for concrete flanges comprising end members exposed at facing ends of a pair of adjacent, generally horizontal concrete flanges and a connecting member between the end members. Each of the end members has a surface along the end of the concrete flange and the connecting member has a first portion extending between the end members in a first generally horizontal plane and a second portion extending between the members in a second generally horizontal plane above or below the first generally horizontal plane. The first and second portions are connected by a third portion extending between the members and the first and second planes. The connecting member portions provide resistance to a force tending to translate the concrete flanges in a vertical direction with respect to each other. |
| US08468762B2 |
Strut accessory for lining a wall and including membrane clamping claws, and wall lining device including such accessory
A spacer accessory including: a shank extending in an axial direction, one end of which includes a mechanism for securing the shank to a structural element of the wall that is to be lined and the other end of which includes a mechanism assembling the shank with lining studwork; two claws surrounding the shank; and a mechanism locking the two claws against one another with axial clamping. |
| US08468760B1 |
Blast-resistant foundations
Blast-resistant foundations are presented that can be used to support a tower, a building, a building supporting a tower, and a tower supporting a building. These foundations can be transported to an installation site and rapidly deployed. They are comprised of one or more precast foundation blocks that do not penetrate the ground beneath them, do not require adjacent foundation blocks to be bound to one-another at their sides with interconnecting steel, and do not require the buildings and/or towers they support to use guy-wires. They can include protected cavities that contain utility equipment and supplies, and they can include conduits from these cavities that can be extended upward through one or more legs of a tower. |
| US08468759B2 |
Fire retardant cover for fluted roof deck
A fire retardant cover is disclosed herein for covering a ceiling-side recess of a fluted roof deck and for providing a flat surface for installation of a head-of-wall track (associated with a steel stud wall assembly). The fluted roof deck has an undulating bottom surface that defines a plurality lengthwise recesses corresponding to a plurality of ceiling-side flutes of the fluted roof deck. The fire retardant cover is substantially flat and configured to sealingly cover at least one of the plurality of lengthwise recesses. The fire retardant cover comprises a piece of sheet metal bent to define first and second upwardly extending protrusions. The protrusions are spaced apart from each other by a substantially flat web section and have laterally facing outer top surfaces matched to sealingly contact lengthwise bottom surfaces of one of the plurality of recesses of the fluted roof deck when the fire retardant cover is installed. |
| US08468757B2 |
Photovoltaic roofing systems and methods for installing them
The present invention relates to photovoltaic roofing systems in which photovoltaic elements are disposed upon roofing elements such as shingles, tiles, shakes or slates. For example, in one embodiment, the present invention provides a photovoltaic roofing system comprising: a first plurality of horizontally-arranged roofing elements; a bus bar batten system extending across the headlap regions of the first plurality of roofing elements, the bus bar batten system comprising one or more rigid supports and an electrical interconnection system; a first plurality of photovoltaic elements, each disposed on a butt region of one of the first plurality of roofing elements, each operatively engaged with the electrical interconnection system of the bus bar batten system; and a second plurality of horizontally-arranged roofing elements disposed on the roof deck and covering the bus bar batten system and the headlap regions of the first plurality of horizontally-arranged roofing elements. |
| US08468753B2 |
Drilling rigs and erection methods
Systems and methods for erecting a drilling rig. This abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims, 37 C.F.R. 1.72(b). |
| US08468751B2 |
Method of stowing and deploying wall panels
A method of moving panels from a stowed position to a deployed position includes supporting a first panel on a cam, rotating the cam in a first direction and lowering the first panel which separates the first panel from the cam and supports the first panel on a flexible lift member. Supporting a second panel on a support rack, biasing the second panel into engagement with the cam, rotating the cam in the first direction to transfer the second panel from the support rack to the cam. Further rotating the cam in the first direction, lowering the second panel to transfer the second panel from the cam to the first panel, so that the flexible lift member bears the weight of the first and second panels through the connection between the first panel and the flexible lift member. Fixing the first and second panels through a tongue and groove engagement. |
| US08468746B2 |
Sealing systems for garage door
A sealing system for connecting a panel to a frame comprises a plurality of pins extending from the frame; a movable member, within the frame, including a plurality of slots; and a first seal drive system connected to the movable member. In a closed position of the panel relative to the frame, the movable member is movable between a first, unlocked position and a second, locked position, and individual ones of the plurality of pins extending through individual ones of the plurality of slots. |
| US08468745B2 |
Garage door opener lift and storage mechanism
A lifting and storage mechanism for storing a component in a garage using the energy of a powered garage door opening and closing system is disclosed. The lifting and storage mechanism includes a pulley system for raising and lowering the stored components and a latching mechanism having a spring latch for securing the components in a stored condition. In order to lower the stored components from a storage position, an operator initiates manual release of the spring latch or activation of an electromechanical release combined with activation of the motor of the powered garage door opening and closing system. |
| US08468744B2 |
Latch mechanism with extended side wall
A latch mechanism adapted for being coupled to a window sash, which travels within a window frame, is disclosed which includes a main housing having a sidewall including one or more sidewall sections. The sidewall including one or more sidewall sections extends around at least a portion of the housing and defines an interior space and includes an opening in said sidewall at one end of said housing. The sidewall further defines a channel within the interior space of the main housing, which has an end that coincides with said opening. At least one of the sidewall sections which is substantially parallel to the direction of travel of the bolt is adapted to extend down from the top of the top rail of the window sash along at least a portion of the external surface of a corresponding one of the front facing and the back facing of the top rail. The latch mechanism further includes a bolt, which is substantially located within said housing and travels along said channel. The bolt has a first end which is adapted for extending through the opening of said housing and extending into the side jamb of the window frame. The latch mechanism still further includes a tension device coupled to the bolt and the main housing for biasing the bolt toward a position where the bolt extends at least partially through the opening. |
| US08468741B2 |
Semi-automated crop production system
A semi-automated crop production featuring a growing module with grids of cells for growing plants and a lighting and airflow fixture positioned above each cell. The lighting and airflow fixture features a fan disposed in a housing, a light emitting diode (LED) assembly board comprising LEDs disposed below the fan; a light diffuser disposed below the LED assembly board, and an adjustable air flow nozzle extending downwardly from the fan and protruding through the LED assembly board and the light diffuser. The adjustable air flow nozzle provides directed air flow downwardly toward a bottom area of the housing. |
| US08468740B1 |
Adjustable fishing tackle box system
The fishing tackle box includes a container, a plurality of first guide slots spaced along a first sidewall of the container, a plurality of second guide slots spaced along a second sidewall of the container, and at least one lure holder having an angular panel including a plurality of spaced apart slots for receiving at least one fishing lure with a hook of the fishing lure positioned below the panel and a body of the fishing lure positioned above said panel. At least one first protrusion extends laterally outward from a first sidewall of said lure holder and at least one second protrusion extends laterally outward from a second sidewall of said lure holder to be collectively received by at least one first guide slot and at least one second guide slot. The lure holder may be comprised of different sizes to hold different sizes or numbers of fishing lures. |
| US08468739B2 |
Dropper-rig fly assembly storage box
A storage device that effectively organizes and protects dropper-rig, fly-fishing assemblies and the leaders that connect them. The device has an openable cap that creates a watertight interior through which a guide extends from the closed end of the device toward the cap. In operation, a user opens the cap of the device and slides an extension along the guide outward from the center of the outer case. With the extension fully exposed, a user attaches previously created dropper-rig assemblies. To attach an assembly, a user takes one of the two flies comprising a dropper-rig assembly and hooks it anywhere on a flexible sleeve that surrounds the extension. He then wraps the leader line, (the line that connects the two flies) around the sleeve until the second fly is in a position to be hooked to the sleeve. A user then returns the extension to within the outer case and seals the device by locking down the cap. |
| US08468736B2 |
Twist grip drive handle outrigger positioner
A twist grip drive handle outrigger device for use on a fishing vessel having a first tubular member for holding of an outrigger pole, which is rotatably journaled to a second tubular member that is mounted to a fixed structure. The second tubular member houses a twist grip drive handle assembly that allows manual rotation of the outrigger pole. The driver assembly constructed and arranged to provide an unlocked condition by the twisting of the handle thereby allowing adjustment of the outrigger pole upon rotation of the first tubular member. The rotation of the first tubular member allows for movement of the outrigger pole from a stowage position to a trolling position and vice versa. |
| US08468735B1 |
Firearm auxiliary rear sight
A firearm auxiliary sight is stored below the firearm optical sight and quickly deployable by means of activation of a lever which disengages the sight whereby a spring moves it outwardly from a housing. During deployment the auxiliary sight is rotated to an angle of 45 degrees with respect to the firearm and simultaneously the sight aperture is rotated upwardly. |
| US08468734B2 |
Pistol accessory
An accessory for a semi-automatic pistol having a slide, the accessory including a pair of protruding engaging members for engagement by a hand or fingers of a user, a mounting element coupled to each engaging member, for releasably mounting the engaging member on the slide of the pistol. Preferably, the accessory further includes a mounting plate slideably engagable in a rear slot of the slide, and the mounting elements are affixable to the mounting plate. |
| US08468732B2 |
Trigger assembly
A trigger assembly including a housing having an upper portion, a lower portion, a front portion, a rear portion, a first side portion and a second side portion. A recess is defined in the housing between the upper portion and the lower portion. First and second guide channels are defined in the first side portion and the second side portion respectively. A trigger lever is configured to pivot within the housing about a pivot point positioned at least partially within the housing, the trigger lever having a body, a trigger bar extending in a first direction from the body, and a safety bar extending in a section direction from the body. A safety mechanism includes a first guide rail, a second guide rail spaced apart from the first guide rail, and a blocking member extending between the first guide rail and the second guide rail. |
| US08468731B2 |
Muzzleloading rifle with breech plug having primer seal facility
A firearm having a barrel with a bore on a bore axis, with the barrel having a muzzle end and a breech end. A frame is connected to the barrel and has a breech face. The barrel moves between an open position in which the breech face is away from the breech end of the barrel and a closed position in which the breech face abuts the breech end of the barrel and/or the breech plug's rear face. A breech plug is removably attached to the barrel. The breech plug includes a central passage that communicates between the primer and the flash hole. The passage forms a primer pocket at the breech end of the breech plug. The primer pocket has a diameter greater than the central passage. A circumferential groove in the primer pocket receives an O-ring. The O-ring encompasses the primer's cylindrical exterior to create a seal. |
| US08468730B2 |
Ammunition magazine
An ammunition magazine including a housing having a base, a follower spring-biased in the housing against the base, a belt coupled to the follower for pulling the follower towards the base, a belt collecting and release mechanism mounted in the base, the belt being coupled to the mechanism for shortening the belt around the wheel when the magazine is rolled along a surface in a forward direction, whereby the belt pulls the follower into the magazine to permit loading of cartridges into the magazine, and for preventing rotation of the wheel to release the belt when the base is rolled along a surface in a rearward direction. |
| US08468729B1 |
Buffer tube
Disclosed herein is an improved buffer tube assembly comprising a buffer tube having a longitudinal forward end, a longitudinal rearward end, and an inner annular surface. The buffer tube further comprises an attachment location operably configured to couple the buffer tube to a lower receiver of a firearm. One novel feature is a dead blow buffer positioned at the longitudinally rearward portion of the buffer tube. The buffer tube comprising an external surface configured to fit within and substantially in contact with the internal bore surface of the buffer tube, wherein the dead blow buffer is configured to receive an impact from a buffer that is attached to a buffer spring fitted within the buffer tube. In one form, the dead blow buffer is positioned between the rearmost portion of the inner annular surface of the buffer tube and the buffer spring. |
| US08468728B2 |
Breakaway outdoor signs
An outdoor sign resistant to wind damage includes a support column; a display having secured and released positions, a lower edge and a central vertical axis aligned with the axis of the column when the sign is in the secured position; a lower horizontal arm with opposed ends mounted on the upper end of the support column; an upper horizontal arm with opposed ends attached to the display, the upper arm being parallel to the display lower edge and the lower support arm when the display is in the secured position; a pivot mechanism joining the support arms adjacent one end; and a retainer mechanism between the opposite ends of the support arms, the mechanism releasibly securing the support arms to each other when the sign is in the secured position. The retainer mechanism is unlatched when the wind force is greater than a predetermined value. |
| US08468725B2 |
Mounting pin assembly for an excavator wear member
A mounting pin assembly having a retaining member which includes a locating surface and a boss extending from the locating surface. The mounting pin assembly also has a locating member slidably mountable upon the locating surface of the retaining member. The locating member also has an enlarged portion defined by an outwardly divergent face. The mounting pin assembly also has a tensioning member extending between and coupling the boss of said retaining member and the locating member. The tensioning member is configured to cause relative contraction of the mounting pin assembly such that the locating member is drawn upon the locating surface of the retaining member towards the boss when a tensile force is applied to the tensioning member. |
| US08468724B2 |
Mounting of wear members
A retaining pin assembly for an excavator tooth assembly. The retaining pin assembly has opposable locating members each having a shank portion able to be slidably insertable via a respective retaining pin aperture on opposite sides of a wear member into a transversely extending mounting aperture of a mounting nose of an excavator. Each locating member also has an enlarged inwardly convergent tapered wedge portion adjacent a normally outer end. The retaining pin assembly also has a tensionable retaining member extending between the locating members from one side of the retaining pin assembly. When tension is applied to the retaining member relative contraction of the locating members occurs to urge the wear member into engagement with the mounting nose by wedging engagement between each of the wedge portions and a rear wall of respective retaining pin apertures. |
| US08468722B2 |
Shoe, in particular running shoe or ski boot, and skiing equipment
A shoe contains an adjustable space for the foot and several fluidically connected chambers. In order to adjust the space for the foot, the flowability of a magnetorheological fluid can be influenced by one or more devices that generate a magnetic field and thereby adjust the space for the foot resulting in a better fitting of the shoe. The novel system may also be implemented in orthoses (e.g., pronation correction) or in complete shoes with orthotics devices for correcting musculoskeletal abnormalities. |
| US08468715B2 |
Method for drying wood product and product obtained thereby
A method for forming an engineered wood product from pulpwood, comprising providing a quantity of pulpwood; crushing and scrimming the pulpwood to form a mat; drying in a first drying step the mat in a first pass dryer; applying a resin to the mat; and, drying in a second drying step the mat in a second pass dryer. The drying process controls moisture content using the rate of change between the entering and exiting airflow temperature. The resulting product has a high modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture. |
| US08468714B2 |
Method for the simultaneous storage and drying of sewage sludge
The invention relates to a method for the simultaneous storage and drying of sewage sludge, comprising the following steps: a) mechanically dewatering the sewage sludge down to a dry substance concentration of 10 to 35 percent; b) applying the dewatered sewage sludge to a floor of a greenhouse-type drying hall in which a transparent building envelope forms the roof over the floor; c) drying the sewage sludge using solar radiation that radiates into the drying hall; d) mechanically dewatering additional sewage sludge down to a dry substance concentration of 10 to 35 percent; e) introducing the dewatered additional sewage sludge into the drying hall and mixing the additional sewage sludge with the sewage sludge already in the drying hall; f) drying said mixture using solar radiation that radiates into the drying hall; and g) evacuating the mixture from the drying hall or repeating steps d) to f), wherein in step e), the additional sewage sludge is mixed with the mixture in the drying hall rather than with the sewage sludge in the drying hall. |
| US08468712B2 |
Method for bonding a transparent substrate to a liquid crystal display and associated device
A “dam and fill” method for bonding a transparent substrate to a liquid crystal display is disclosed which method provides means for effectively containing uncured/partially cured adhesive prior to bonding using the method. Also described is an associated device, made using the “dam and fill” method, which has precise targeted spacing between the transparent substrate and the liquid crystal display. |
| US08468708B2 |
Hemostatic patch
The present disclosure relates to a surgical patch and methods of using the same. The surgical patch includes a body having a substrate, a longitudinal slit bisecting at least a portion of the body, and at least one additional slit extending from the longitudinal slit defining a retractable section. The surgical patch of the disclosure may be used, for example, to provide hemostasis at a site of anastomosis. The present disclosure also provides kits including such surgical patches, as well as templates that permit one to cut the patch to a desired size and/or shape. |
| US08468706B2 |
Test device for testing distance between centers of two through holes
A test device for testing whether the distance between centers meets specifications includes a support member, a benchmark member set on a first end of the support member, to be positioned at the first through hole, a test member set on a second end of the support member, to be positioned at the second through hole, and a sliding member defining a receiving slot. The test member is also slidable in a direction perpendicular to the slidable direction of the test member. If the test member can enter the receiving slot, the first article is qualified, if test member cannot enter the receiving slot, the second article does not meet the required standard. |
| US08468701B1 |
Folding knife assembly
A folding knife assembly includes a blade assembly which is disposable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The blade assembly includes a fixed blade portion and a movable blade portion, wherein the fixed blade portion and moveable blade portion are cooperatively structured to engage one another in an interlocked configuration when the blade assembly is disposed in an open configuration. The folding knife assembly also includes a positioning assembly structured to facilitate disposition of the blade assembly between an open configuration and a closed configuration. A locking assembly is provided and is structured to operatively engage at least a portion of the positioning assembly to releasably secure the blade assembly in the open configuration, and to operatively disengage the positioning assembly to permit disposition of the blade assembly into a closed configuration. |
| US08468695B2 |
Machine and method for machining crankshaft ends
A machine which comprises two machining heads (1, 2) designed to machine crankshaft (5) ends and two machining stations (3, 4) designed to receive and secure at least one crankshaft (5). The machining stations (3, 4) are disposed between the two machining heads (1, 2). The crankshafts (5) are mounted in such a manner as to be disposed parallel to each other and oriented at 180°. |
| US08468694B2 |
Remanufactured cylinder liner flange replacement
The present disclosure, in one form, provides a process for remanufacturing a flanged cylinder liner, comprising the steps of machining a top portion of the cylinder liner to remove the cylinder liner flange, thereby creating a flange seat portion, preparing the top portion of the cylinder liner to receive a replacement cylindrical flanged sleeve collar, aligning the center axis of the cylinder liner with the center axis of the cylindrical flanged sleeve collar, placing the sleeve collar into contact with the cylinder liner such that the cylindrical flanged sleeve collar abuts with the flange seat portion and affixing the cylindrical flanged sleeve collar onto the liner. |
| US08468693B2 |
Dielectric device and method of manufacturing the same
A dielectric device has a first conductor and a dielectric disposed thereon. An intermediate region is formed between the first conductor and dielectric. In the intermediate region, an additive different from the first conductor and dielectric and the dielectric are mixed with each other. The additive contains at least one element of Si, Al, P, Mg, Mn, Y, V, Mo, Co, Nb, Fe, and Cr. |
| US08468691B2 |
Method for producing an electronic module by means of sequential fixation of the components, and corresponding production line
A process for manufacturing an electronic module including a printed-circuit board, at least one first-type component and one second-type component is disclosed. The process involves placing solder on the board, putting the first-type component in a first position, heating the entire board to melt the solder, resulting in soldering of the first-type component, putting the second-type component in a second position such that the second-type component has leads bearing on the board via the solder, and heating the solder locally to melt the solder such that the second-type component is soldered by applying two electrodes on each lead of the second-type component and making an electrical current flow between the electrodes to heat each lead of the second-type component. Each of the two electrodes directly contacts each lead of the second-type component to make the current flow between the two electrodes via the corresponding lead of the second-type component. |
| US08468690B2 |
Holding member for use in test and method for manufacturing same
A holding member for use in a test includes a base made of silicon or glass and chips in which devices are formed is mountable thereon. Positioning members made of resist sheets are formed on the top surface of the base. A resist film is formed on the bottom surface of the base, and suction grooves (intersection portions, connection portions) and support members are formed in the resist film. Suction holes are formed in regions of the top surface of the base where the chips are mounted, wherein the suction holes are formed through the base and communicate with the suction groove. |
| US08468689B2 |
Method of producing a multi-element assembly
A plurality of individual elements are imparted with reverse axial twist and collectively twisted into a multi-element assembly. Each individual element has an axial twist direction in an opposite direction from the axial twist direction of the collective multi-element assembly. The reverse axial torsion in the assembly tightly binds the plurality elements in the assembly to resist separation. |
| US08468687B2 |
Component mounting apparatus
In a component mounting apparatus, a picking member picks components and mounts them on a board through movements of a plurality of moving members driven by motors. The apparatus is provided with a regenerative electric power control section for controlling regenerative electric power produced by regenerating a motion energy when each of the motors is decelerated; power supply sections for the motors each for exchanging electric power with the regenerative electric power control section; and a control section. When two moving members are moved, the control section begins to start and accelerate one of the two moving members in synchronized relation with a timing of beginning to decelerate and stop the other moving member and controls the regenerative electric power control section to utilize a regenerative electric power which is obtained from the motor driving the other moving member, in starting the motor which drives the one moving member. |
| US08468685B2 |
Wire forming device
A wire forming device for applying a paste material on an insulating substrate to form a wiring pattern. The wire forming device includes a paste material application unit which includes an atomizing unit atomizing the paste material and a nozzle spraying the atomized paste material onto the insulating substrate. The atomizing unit includes: a medium supplying portion which mixes a medium with a carrier gas to form a mixed gas and an atomizing portion. The atomizing portion holds the paste material and brings the mixed gas into contact with the paste material to atomize the paste material, thereby making a mist stream of the mixed gas and the paste material as the atomized paste material fed to the nozzle. The wire forming further includes a mixing ratio adjusting unit adjusting a mixing ratio of the paste material to the mixed gas in the mist stream. |
| US08468678B2 |
Expandable retrieval device
A device for retrieving an intravascular device from a body lumen is disclosed. A retrieval device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes a braided member coupled to an elongated shaft member. The braided member may include a number of filaments defining a radially expandable inner lumen configured to receive and encapsulate the intravascular device therein. An elastomeric jacket disposed about at least a portion of the braided member may encase the filaments. |
| US08468674B2 |
Device and method for supplying structural components to an assembly zone
A device for the preferably automated supply of structural components to an assembly zone for producing a fuselage portion of an aircraft by multi-shell construction is provided and can include at least one side shell support for introducing at least one side shell, and at least two positioning towers for moving and aligning at least one side shell inside device. The device enables side shells to be quickly and precisely supplied to an assembly zone for production of an entire fuselage portion. It is possible to dispense completely with the hitherto required manual and therefore time-consuming “hovering” of side shells and other large structural components, such as upper shells, lower shells, floor frames and other technical equipment systems necessary for the production of a fuselage portion, this process being prone to problems and difficult to control. |
| US08468663B2 |
Method for manufacturing an apparatus for generating electric energy
A method for manufacturing an apparatus for generating electrical energy may include; disposing a nanowire including a piezoelectric material on a first electrode, disposing an active layer, which is electrically connected to the nanowire, on the first electrode, disposing an insulating film on the nanowire, disposing a conductive layer on the active layer, and disposing a second electrode in proximity to the nanowire and substantially opposite to the first electrode. |
| US08468659B2 |
Fixing device
A device for fixing a first and second object with respect to one another includes a base which has a first channel or sleeve and a second channel or sleeve each suitable for receiving the first and second objects, respectively. A first member is and a second member are movably connected to the base. The first and second members can be moved into a locking position whereby the first member projects into the first channel, and the second member extends into the second channel. |
| US08468658B1 |
Adjustable belt assembly
An adjustable belt and buckle mechanism typically used with clothing, but not exclusive to this use. In one embodiment, the belt assembly has a unique design using hook-and-loop fasteners, as well as metal hook and eye fasteners, in combination with a double-loop buckle that joins the two ends of the belting via the buckle for an adjustable and easily closable belting, cinching, or tie down product. |
| US08468654B2 |
Hinge assembly and electronic device using the same
An embodiment of a hinge assembly includes a main body defining a shaft hole, a connecting shaft including an inserting end rotatably received in the shaft hole, and an expansion member forming a tapered portion and axially positioned in the shaft hole. An end surface of the inserting end toward the expansion member defines a tapered hole corresponding to the tapered portion, and the tapered portion is pressed into the tapered hole to expand the inserting end to resist the inner surface of the shaft hole, thus rotatably connecting the connecting shaft to the main body. |
| US08468652B2 |
Decelerating device
A decelerating device (1) comprises a cylinder (2) filled with a fluid, a bushing (3) for the closure of the cylinder (2) traversed by a rod (4) sliding in the cylinder (2), and a piston (5) guided to slide inside the cylinder (2) and fitted with means (7) for the calibrated through passage of the fluid, the piston (5) is separate from the rod (4) and there are also first elastic means (8) for the movement of the piston (5) in the direction of extraction from the cylinder (2) and second elastic means (9) independent of the first elastic means (8} for the movement of the rod (4) in the direction of extraction from the cylinder (2). |
| US08468648B1 |
Method and apparatus for cleaning air conditioner evaporator coils
An air conditioning coil cleaning system including a portable vacuum blower equipped with a plurality of fluid supply reservoirs and a fluid pump, a suction hose with an electric power cord and fluid supply lines attached to a remote hand held brush head containing an elongated oscillating wiper brush. Fluids may be selectively sprayed onto coils being cleaned while vacuuming to reduce airborne debris and debris accumulation in the coil catch pan. |
| US08468647B2 |
Surface treating head
A surface treating head in the form of a floor tool for a vacuum cleaner includes a main body, a suction cavity and an outlet. The suction cavity includes first and second suction channels bounded on both sides by respective working edges. A fluid flow path extends from the first suction channel to the second suction channel and from there to the outlet. The plurality of suction channels permits effective pick-up of dirt, which may be further enhanced by an air duct, in the form of a slot, which draws air over some of the working edges. The invention permits a tool with a lower profile to be manufactured than would be achievable by providing separate flow paths between the respective channels and the outlet. |
| US08468644B2 |
Method of and apparatus for cleaning a floor
An apparatus for use in cleaning a floor uses a flat mop including a generally flat mop head having a handle and absorbent fabric material. The mop head is foldable to a folded condition, wherein a loop of the fabric material depends from the folded parts. The fabric material is inserted into cleaning liquid to wet the material. The mop head is introduced to a wringer to wring the material between the jaws and a wringing surface. The damp absorbent fabric material is used to mop the floor. The floor is dried using a separate drying tool that includes a head secured to a handle, and one or more attachment devices to attach a dry absorbent cloth to the head. The floor is dried by applying the cloth to the floor using the tool and moving a dry portion of the cloth over the floor. |
| US08468640B2 |
Windshield wiper with vibration actuator
A scrubber assembly (14) for a windshield wiper (10) having a wiper arm (12) includes a scrubber housing (22) attached to the wiper arm. The scrubber housing (22) has an interior volume (66) and at least one opening (58). A rod (68) is at least partially disposed in the interior volume (66) and is displaceable from a first position to a second position. A brush assembly (42) is attached to the rod (68) with at least one flexible connecting member (76) that extends through the at least one opening (58) to the brush assembly. When the rod (68) is in the first position, a first portion of the flexible connecting member (76) protrudes from the opening (58), and when the rod is displaced to the second position, a second portion of the flexible connecting member that is larger than the first portion protrudes from the opening. |
| US08468639B2 |
Tool for extracting material from a container
According to an embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for extracting material from a container includes a handle and a knife blade. The handle has a neck and a primary axis. The knife blade is coupled to the handle and has a first edge and a second edge. The first edge is configured to conform to a bottom surface of the container. The second edge is configured to conform to an interior wall of the container. An oblique angle is formed by the first edge and the second edge. Another oblique angle is formed between the primary axis of the handle and the first edge of the knife. |
| US08468633B2 |
Floor-cleaning equipment
A cleaning device includes a base body, a rotatable brush roller disposed on the base body, a dirt container disposed on the base body, a cloth holder attached removably to the base body, and a cleaning cloth attachable to the cloth holder. |
| US08468630B2 |
Wheel weight tool
A wheel weight tool includes a handle connected to a hammer head on a first end and having a first hook on a second end. The first hook may be adapted for removing a wheel weight. The hammer head has a soft end and a hard end. The hard end may include a second hook. |
| US08468626B2 |
Cab sleeper
The present invention is directed to a self-leveling sleeper having an interior gimbals member pivotally connected to an exterior gimbals member via a second pivoting means. The exterior gimbals member has a first pivoting means oriented substantially perpendicular with respect to said second pivoting means. An attitude sensor and correction sending unit is operably connected to control the displacement of the exterior gimbals member and interior gimbals member to displace a mattress platform to either a stowed position or a level position. |
| US08468618B2 |
Sink insert
A device that can be inserted into a sink to collect water for reuse, the device comprising a water tight body portion adapted to hold water, a drain opening to enable water to be drained from the device, closure means to enable the drain to be closed when not required, and means to hold the device generally within the sink. |
| US08468616B2 |
Vacuum-aided toilet
A vacuum-aided toilet comprises a toilet bowl, a deodorization pipeline, a flushing pipeline, a sensing switch (4) and a control device. A flushing port of the toilet bowl is communicated with the deodorization pipeline. The deodorization pipeline is communicated to a vacuum device. Inside the toilet bowl are provided a trap I (1.1), a trap II (1.2) and a draining port (1.3). The flushing pipeline being connected to the flushing port of the toilet bowl and the trap II (1.2), respectively. The sensing switch (4) is connected to a control device, which controls the deodorization pipeline and the flushing pipeline. An ejector (2.4) mounted on an air discharge pipeline (2.5) is directly driven by gas from an air outlet of a ventilating fan (2.2), so that vacuum is produced in a draining pipe. Thus the vacuum-aided toilet can save water and get rid of the odor. |
| US08468614B2 |
Fluid container carrying device and a neck protection device provided with such a fluid container carrying device
A fluid container carrying device including a back piece and a front piece forming a pocket having an opening for receiving and holding a fluid container, wherein the fluid container carrying device further including a first strap provided with a first fastener for fastening to a first side portion of a neck protection device, a second strap provided with a second fastener for fastening to a second side portion of the neck protection device, and a fastening means arranged on the back piece of the pocket for fastening to a rear lower member of the neck protection device. The present invention also relates to a neck protection device provided with such a fluid container carrying device. |
| US08474061B2 |
Production scale fabrication method for high resolution AFM tips
A method of fabricating high resolution atomic force microscopy (AFM) tips including a single semiconductor nanowire grown at an apex of a semiconductor pyramid of each AFM tip is provided. The semiconductor nanowire that is grown has a controllable diameter and a high aspect ratio, without significant tapering from the tip of the semiconductor nanowire to its base. The method includes providing an AFM probe including a semiconductor cantilever having a semiconductor pyramid extending upward from a surface of said semiconductor cantilever. The semiconductor pyramid has an apex. A patterned oxide layer is formed on the AFM probe. The patterned oxide layer has an opening that exposes the apex of the semiconductor pyramid. A single semiconductor nanowire is grown on the exposed apex of the semiconductor pyramid utilizing a non-oxidized Al seed material as a catalyst for nanowire growth. |
| US08474053B2 |
Data security in a multi-nodal environment
A data security manager in a multi-nodal environment enforces processing constraints stored as security relationships that control how different pieces of a multi-nodal application (called execution units) are allowed to execute to insure data security. The security manager preferably checks the security relationships for security violations when new execution units start execution, when data moves to or from an execution unit, and when an execution unit requests external services. Where the security manager determines there is a security violation based on the security relationships, the security manager may move, delay or kill an execution unit to maintain data security. |
| US08474050B2 |
System and apparatus for transferring data between communication elements
A system and apparatus for transferring data between communication elements is disclosed. A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a communication device having a controller element to receive data from a web server to update one or more entries of an identity module coupled to the controller element. The data can be retrieved by the web server from a second communication device. Additional embodiments are disclosed. |
| US08474048B2 |
Website content regulation
A method of facilitating the scanning of web pages for suspect and/or malicious hyperlinks that includes receiving at a content hosting website, user generated content. A web page or web page containing said content is then generated and, in the web page source code is included a detection code segment or a link from which a detection code segment can be downloaded. The detection code segment is executable by a web browser or web browser plug-in to scan the web page(s), or cause the web page(s) to be scanned, for suspect and/or malicious links. |
| US08474045B2 |
Method of detecting program attacks
A program data attack is detected during execution of an algorithm performed by an embedded system. The algorithm uses program data stored in the embedded system. The detection is performed by asserting a detection command signal, initializing a calculation register with a calculation result in response to assertion of the detection command signal, wherein the calculation result is produced by execution of the algorithm using the program data, and comparing the calculation result stored in the calculation register with a reference value included in the program data, wherein the reference value is a value of the calculation result expected to be obtained when the program data is not attacked from outside. |
| US08474034B2 |
Method and apparatus for fast check and update of anti-replay window without bit-shifting in internet protocol security
An apparatus comprising a processor configured to implement an anti-replay check for a plurality of received packets and a plurality of corresponding sequence numbers; and a circular buffer coupled to the processor and comprising a bitmap, wherein the bitmap is slided in a circular manner by updating a low index that points to a first sequence number for a first received packet and a high index that points to a last sequence number for a last received packet without bit-shifting, and wherein, when the update results in the new value of one of the low index and the high index exceeding the end of the circular buffer, the one of the low index and the high index wraps around from the beginning of the circular buffer. |
| US08474033B2 |
Computer or microchip with a master controller connected by a secure control bus to networked microprocessors or cores
A computer or microchip configured to be securely controlled through a secure control bus, including through a private network. The computer or microchip includes a secure private unit protected by an inner hardware-based access barrier or firewall; an unprotected public unit including at least one network connection configured to connect to a network; a separate private network connection located in the secure private unit; a microprocessor, core or processing unit configured for general purposes located in the unprotected public unit and separate from the access barrier or firewall; a secure control bus isolated from input from both the network and components of the unprotected public unit; and a master controlling device in the private unit being configured for securely controlling an operation executed by the microprocessor, core or processing unit via a connection to the secure control bus, including through the separate private network to the separate private network connection. |
| US08474032B2 |
Firewall+ storage apparatus, method and system
A storage firewall architecture, method and system that works in parallel with existing security technologies and, inter alia, provides application software authentication, user authentication & authorization in the execution of an application, examination, verification, and authentication of all storage access requests, monitoring of protected storage to detect & repair anomalous changes, encryption of protected storage, both data and software, provisioning (deployment) of patches, configuration changes, and software through a secure synchronization link to a configuration and patch management server, and server-based system administration & configuration to prevent malware from penetrating local configuration mechanisms. |
| US08474031B2 |
Access control method and apparatus
A method of controlling access to computing resources, comprising providing a first computing device with access to a database containing data indicative of computing resources access to which is controlled by the first computing device and a minimum security capability that a second computing device must possess to access the respective resources, assigning the second computing device a security capability, providing the second computing device with data indicative of the security capability, configuring the first computing device to respond to data indicative of the security capability and data indicative of a desired access from the second computing device by ascertaining the minimum required security capability corresponding to the desired access and by comparing the minimum required security capability with the security capability of the second computing device, and providing the desired access if the security capability of the second computing device meets the minimum security capability for the desired access. |
| US08474029B2 |
Method and system of user authentication using a portable authenticator
Systems and methods are provided for facilitating access to an electronic device. Password information is stored on the electronic device, and on a portable authenticator. When a user attempts to access the electronic device, the user is prompted to enter a password at the electronic device. The portable authenticator determines the validity of the entered password. The electronic device receives the results of the validity determination from the portable authenticator, and provides access to the electronic device based on the received validity determination. |
| US08474026B2 |
Realization of access control conditions as boolean expressions in credential authentications
A method, reader, and system are provided for performing group authentication processes. In particular, a group access decision can be made upon the analysis of a group rule. The group rule may contain a Boolean expression including one or more Boolean conditions. If an appropriate group of credentials are presented to a reader such that the Boolean expression is satisfied, then the group of credentials and the holders thereof are allowed access to a protected asset. |
| US08474024B2 |
Method and device for playing back media data with limited control
A method and apparatus for restricting a control operation with respect to reproduction of media data so as to commercially implement consumption of the media data, the method and apparatus including: restricting the control operation with respect to reproduction of the media data by using a predetermined Application Programming Interface (API); and reproducing the media data received from a media server, according to the restricted control operation. |
| US08474013B2 |
Securely managing password access to a computer system
A method, system or computer usable program product for providing initial access Lo the computer system in response to a user providing a first password, and upon detecting a condition meeting a predetermined criteria, providing subsequent access to the computer system in response to the user providing a second password wherein the first password has stronger security than the second password. |
| US08474010B2 |
System and method for facilitating the transfer of information relating to quality of an organization
A system and method transfers information relating to quality or standards of an organization from a server to a wireless handheld computing device and from the wireless handheld computing device to the server in real-time or near real-time. Each member of an organization can have the same policies and procedures as soon as any of the policies and procedures are updated. The inventive system can allow an organization to also measure compliance and conformance with the distributed policies and procedures. With the handheld computing devices, each member of an organization can complete tests that are closely tied to the distributed policies and procedures. The results of these tests can be transmitted in real-time or near real-time from the handheld computing devices to a central computer server so that an organization can track current performance of all its members relative to the policies and procedures and relative to each other. |
| US08474009B2 |
Dynamic service access
Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to authenticate a desktop client to an identity service (IS), to receive a request, from an application, at the IS via the desktop client for a virtual service internet protocol (IP) address associated with a service. The IS may operate to build a routing token that includes an original physical IP address associated with the service when a policy associated with the IS permits access to the service by a user identity associated with the desktop client. After the routing token is validated, the application may be connected to the service via the desktop client. The application may comprise an e-mail application or a remote control application, such as a virtual network computing (VNC) application. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US08474006B2 |
Retrospective policy safety net
These and other objectives are attained with a method and system for evaluating an access policy change. The method comprises the step of providing an access control mechanism having a first policy, and an audit log having entries of accesses made under that first policy. The method comprises the further steps of submitting a second policy to the access control mechanism, comparing the log entries to the second policy, and based on the results of the comparing step, taking one of a predetermined number of actions. |
| US08473999B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing a picture in picture service
A method of forming a picture in picture (PIP) service over an internet protocol (IP) transmission to one or more users, the method comprising the steps of: receiving a request for a PIP channel comprising a first predetermined channel superimposed with a second predetermined channel; determining if the PIP channel already exists; forming the PIP channel if it does not already exist; and transmitting the PIP channel on a dedicated channel to any users who have requested that PIP channel. |
| US08473997B2 |
Channel changing method, apparatus, and system
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a channel changing method, apparatus, and system. A network side device records in real time a timestamp of a media packet of a multicast media stream which enters a buffer, and a key frame which enters the buffer; when a terminal's channel changing request has been detected, obtains a first timestamp of a media packet which enters the buffer at a channel changing request moment, and a second timestamp of a media packet in which a key frame which is of the target channel and is the last to enter the buffer is located in the media packet; determines a timestamp difference between the first timestamp and the second timestamp; and transmits the timestamp difference and a burst media stream of the target channel to the terminal. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, a delay in playing the multicast media stream by the terminal is reduced. |
| US08473990B2 |
System and method for local broadcasting
A video controller broadcasts input video through a premises media, such as a coaxial cable to one or more premises televisions or television channels. When a PC provides the input video, a mode change may occur to direct the video to the PC monitor or to the broadcast output. The video resolution of the PC is set to provide a desired digital television resolution with broadcast video. An audio driver may be used to provide USB audio output from the PC. When the PC monitor or broadcast output is selected for video output, the non-selected output is disabled or provided with a video indication that another video output is active. An EDID can be captured from the PC or PC monitor to assist with mode changes and setting PC video resolution. The input video may be provided directly from a digital video source and broadcast to selected televisions or channels. |
| US08473989B2 |
Enabling white space networks independent of low-threshold sensing
Described is a technology by which a remote or local geo-location service provides white space information that one or more client devices and/or base stations may use to determine which white spaces are available for use, e.g., for wireless networking. Because of the information, low-threshold sensing is not needed by the client devices and/or base stations to know which white spaces are available. The service computes the available white spaces for a given location based upon television transmitter parameters, elevation data, and information received regarding any operational wireless microphones. |
| US08473986B2 |
Electronic program guide
An apparatus 100 and method is provided for generating an EPG. The apparatus 100 is configured to output data to generate an EPG in which upcoming programs are shown as tiles with a uniform size, regardless of the duration of the program or how much of the program has elapsed. The EPG also has a highlighted portion that is associated with a particular channel at any given time. When a command is received to move forwards or backwards through the EPG, data is output to move the highlighted portion of the EPG in the corresponding direction. The tiles representing programs in the EPG are also shifted so as to be based on the start time of the next or previous (depending on the user input) program on the channel associated with the highlighted portion. |
| US08473985B2 |
Mobile terminal and method of managing broadcasting service information using digital broadcast reception function
A mobile terminal having a digital broadcast reception function is provided. The mobile terminal includes a digital broadcast reception unit receiving one or more digital broadcasting service information having different broadcasting modes via different paths; a memory storing the digital broadcasting service information received via the digital broadcast reception unit and a metadata interface for mapping the digital broadcasting service information according to semantics; a control unit extracting the digital broadcasting service information from the memory using the metadata interface and generating a control signal for displaying the extracted result in a form that can be recognized by a user; and a display unit displaying the extracted result according to the control signal from the control unit. |
| US08473979B2 |
Systems and methods for graphical adjustment of an electronic program guide
Systems and methods provide for displaying an electronic program guide (EPG) on a display generated by a set top box (STB) or other television receiver. The electronic program guide is presented in at least a portion of the display. A resize indicator is also provided on the display so that viewer inputs corresponding to the resize indicator can be received. The size of the electronic program guide presented on the display can be adjusted in response to the viewer input corresponding to the resize indicator. |
| US08473978B2 |
Channel navigation
Systems and methods may include providing, to a user device, first content corresponding to a first channel of a plurality of channels; receiving, from the user device or a device associated with the user device, selection of a second channel, of the plurality of channels, when advertising content is present in the first content; providing, to the user device and responsive to the selection, second content corresponding to the second channel; identifying a conclusion of the advertising content; and generating a notification indicative of the conclusion of the advertising content. |
| US08473972B2 |
Optical pickup and drive apparatus
An optical pickup includes a lens holder; an objective lens provided on the lens holder and having an effective region for collecting light from a light source and an edge located outer to the effective region; and a lens protector provided on the lens holder. The lens protector protrudes toward an optical disc more than the objective lens. The edge of the objective lens includes a convexed portion protruding toward the optical disc. An apex of the effective region of the objective lens protrudes toward the optical disc more than the convexed portion of the edge. A straight line connecting a part of the edge of the objective lens and a part of the lens protector is closer to the optical disc than the apex of the effective region of the objective lens. |
| US08473971B2 |
Type inference and type-directed late binding
Systems and methods that enhance and balance a late binding and an early binding in a programming language, via supplying an option component to opt-in (or opt-out) late binding, and wherein a late binding is triggered based on a static type for the variable (e.g., object or a type/string.) Additionally, the variable is enabled to have different static types at different regions (e.g., a program fragment) of the programming language. |
| US08473967B2 |
Systems and methods for providing a client-side application programming interface to access a networked telecommunication resource
The present application is directed towards systems and methods for interfacing a network-agnostic application to a networked telecommunication resource. An agent executing on a client receives a request from an application in the form of an API function call and establishes a connection to a networked telecommunications resource. The agent handles network processing of the request, a response or responses, and asynchronous events, and translates them into corresponding API callbacks for use by the application. |
| US08473966B2 |
Iterative exchange communication
An inter-processor communication approach is applicable to a message passing pattern called iterative exchange. In such patterns, two processors exchange messages, then perform a computation, and then this process is repeated. If two sets of send and receive buffers are used, then it is possible to guarantee that a receive buffer on the receiver's side is always available to receive the message. A message passing system controls which buffers are used for sending and receiving. These buffers are registered beforehand, thereby avoiding repeated registration at the time messages are sent. The sender is initially informed of all the possible receive buffers that the receiver will use, and the sender then uses these receive buffers alternately. Examples of this approach can avoid the use of multiple-step rendezvous protocols, memory copies, and memory registrations when a message needs to be sent. |
| US08473962B2 |
Service selection for composite services
A system for selecting services that are used for a composite service, may include an accessing unit and a processing unit. The accessing unit may be configured to access: tasks of the composite service, transactional requirements of the tasks, services that are configured to fulfill the tasks, and transactional properties of the services. The processing unit may be configured to: compute conditions for services that are configured to fulfill a task and select a service configured to fulfill the task and having transactional properties that fulfill the conditions, wherein the conditions are computed using data comprising the transactional requirements of the tasks. |
| US08473960B2 |
Vector throttling to control resource use in computer systems
Embodiments are provided for managing the system performance of resources performing tasks in response to task requests from tenants. In one aspect, a system that comprises at least one resource configured to perform at least one admitted task with an impact under the control of a computer system. The computer system provides services to more than one tenant. The computer system comprises a strategist configured to assess the impact of the admitted task to create a cost function vector containing multiple cost function specifications and a budget policy vector containing multiple budget policies and an actuator. The actuator receives the cost function vector and the budget policy vector from the strategist, receives a task request one of the more than one tenants, and calculates cost functions based upon the cost function vector to predict the impact of the task request on the resources for each of the task requests. The actuator throttles the task requests based upon the budget policies for the impact on the resources to create at least one of the admitted task performed by the resource and a delayed task request. |
| US08473959B2 |
Methods and apparatus related to migration of customer resources to virtual resources within a data center environment
In one embodiment, a processor-readable medium can be configured to store code representing instructions to be executed by a processor. The code can include code to receive an indicator that a set of virtual resources has been identified for quarantine at a portion of a data center. The code can also include code to execute, during at least a portion of a quarantine time period, at least a portion of a virtual resource from the set of virtual resources at a quarantined portion of hardware of the data center that is dedicated to execute the set of virtual resources in response to the indicator and not execute virtual resources associated with non-quarantine operation. |
| US08473958B2 |
Adjusting client display devices based on settings included in a notification from remote virtual machine host prior to connection establishment
A method and system for display device configuration in a VM environment are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes determining one or more display devices of a client and transmitting client display information to a host running one or more VMs. Further, a notification is received by the client from the host indicating that display settings of the VM were configured based on the client display information. |
| US08473950B2 |
Parallel nested transactions
A system for managing transactions, including a first reference cell associated with a starting value for a first variable, a first thread having an outer atomic transaction including a first instruction to write a first value to the first variable, a second thread, executing in parallel with the first thread, having an inner atomic transaction including a second instruction to write a second value to the first variable, where the inner atomic transaction is nested within the outer atomic transaction, a first value node created by the outer atomic transaction and storing the first value in response to execution of the first instruction, and a second value node created by the inner atomic transaction, storing the second value in response to execution of the second instruction, and having a previous node pointer referencing the first value node. |
| US08473947B2 |
Method for configuring a physical adapter with virtual function (VF) and physical function (PF) for controlling address translation between virtual disks and physical storage regions
A method is provided for use in a system that includes a host computing machine configured to implement a virtualization intermediary and that includes a physical storage adapter, the configures a virtual machine (VM) and a virtual function (VF) to support IO operations to physical storage through a direct IOV path to the VF of the physical storage adapter, the method comprises: creating by the virtualization intermediary mapping information that includes a first mapping between virtual disks and physical regions of physical storage and that includes a second mapping between virtual disks and virtual disk addresses; transmitting the mapping information from the virtualization intermediary over the physical storage adapter from a physical function (PF) of the physical storage adapter to the VF; associating a virtual port with the mapping information within the virtualization intermediary; binding the virtual port to the VF; communicating virtual disk addresses indicated within the second mapping within the transmitted mapping information for the allocated virtual disks to the VM. |
| US08473944B2 |
Applying social computing paradigm to software installation and configuration
A method for installation and configuration of a software product includes installing a software product and determining configuration settings of the software product based upon a social network of peers. A system for installation and configuration of at least one software product includes at least one client install package capable of utilizing a social network for at least one of installing software; transmitting configuration settings; transmitting post-installation configuration settings; or responding to post-installation configuration modifications; and a server that stores and aggregates the configuration settings of a plurality of users, forming at least one social network. |
| US08473939B2 |
Concurrent upgrade of all components in storage subsystems
A plurality of upgraded components associated with an upgraded storage subsystem replaces a plurality of existing components associated with an existing storage subsystem. Support for a verify I/O command is created. A target volume is created in the upgraded storage subsystem having a same volume identification as a source volume. For a command received on the at least one of the plurality of upgraded components, the verify I/O command is invoked on at least one of a comparable one of the plurality of existing components. If the command is verified, the command is driven. The at least one of the plurality of upgraded components disguises a true volume identification of the target volume from the at least one of the plurality of existing components. |
| US08473937B2 |
Method and array for changing software or source code
Selected components of a piece of software serve in a first variant, as variation points, are converted into a first XML code. The software, now in hybrid form, is shipped. The first code is converted on the customer side via one or more transformations, for example SLT, exclusively in accordance with transformation rules into a second XML code. In a second variant, a first XML code containing at least one language extension is converted in accordance with transformation rules into a more easily verifiable second XML code without said language extensions. In a third variant a source code formulated in XML is transformed in such a way that, following a back-conversion into the original programming language, a new source code is produced in which not only the representation, but also the actual program content and/or functionality has been changed. Alternatively, in a fourth variant a source code formulated in XML with, for example, initial states, code fragments to be replaced and foreign language modules tailored to the respective natural language of the user is mixed by transformation, as a result of which, following a back-conversion, a new source code is produced in which not only the representation, but also the actual program content and/or functionality has been changed. |
| US08473936B2 |
System and method for runtime class extracting
An application running on a virtual machine includes a plurality of runtime classes. A class loader can load one or more runtime classes of the plurality of runtime classes into the virtual machine to support an operation on the application. In addition, the class loader can record a context information for each runtime class of the one or more runtime classes. Based on the recorded context information of each runtime class, the one or more runtime classes can be extracted. |
| US08473935B2 |
Just-ahead-of-time compilation
Pre-compiling postdominating functions. Some embodiments may be practiced in a computing environment including a runtime compilation. For example one method includes acts for compiling functions. The method includes determining that a function of an application has been called. A control flow graph is used to determine one or more postdominance relationships between the function and one or more other functions. The one or more other functions are assigned to be pre-compiled based on the postdominance relationship. |
| US08473932B2 |
Relaxed and extended delegates
Systems and methods that enhance expressibility in a programming language (e.g., Visual Basic) via relaxation of artificial restrictions and extension of delegates associated therewith, without changing the runtime infrastructure. A stub is employed that can replace an impermissible expression in the programming language, to leverage the existing permissible expressions. |
| US08473929B2 |
Architecture tailoring system
According to one embodiment, an architecture tailoring system includes an architecture tailoring tool coupled to multiple architecture tools that each generates architectures according to its native architecture definition. Architecture tailoring tool receives an architecture from an architecture tool generated according to its native architecture definition and convert at least a portion of the architecture to conform a different architecture definition. The converted portion may then be exported to another architecture tool that is configured to manipulate the converted portion of the architecture according to its native architecture definition. |
| US08473925B2 |
Conditional dynamic instrumentation of software in a specified transaction context
Techniques for analyzing software in which un-instrumented components can be discovered and conditionally instrumented during a runtime of the software. Initially, software such as an application can be configured with a baseline set of instrumented components such as methods. As the application runs, performance data gathered from the instrumentation may indicate that the performance of some methods is below expectations. To analyze this, any methods which are callable from a method at issue are discovered, such as by inspecting the byte code of loaded classes in a JAVA Virtual Machine (JVM). To limit and focus the diagnosis, the instrumentation which is added to the discovered components can be conditional, so that the instrumentation is executed only in a specified context. The context can involve, e.g., a specified sequence of components in which a discovered component is called, and/or transaction data in which a discovered component is called. |
| US08473920B2 |
Application initiated tracing of its operation beginning with reset
This invention includes a state machine entering a first state upon cold reset of the data processing system. Trace information collection and trace information export are prohibited in the first state. The state machine transits from said first state to a second state upon a change in a predetermined bit to a first state. Direct memory access setup is enabled in the second state. The state machine transits from the second state to a third state upon set up of the direct memory access. Trace information collection is enabled in the third state. The state machine transits from the third state to a fourth state upon a direct memory access request corresponding to the direct memory access setup in the second state. Trace data export via direct memory access from the trace collection unit is enabled in the fourth state. |
| US08473919B2 |
System and method for repeating program flow for debugging and testing
A method for repeating program flow for debugging and testing purposes comprises storing function call data in one or more files and retrieving the recorded data from the one or more files. The method further comprises using the recorded data to recreate an execution path of a program. Additionally, the method comprises analyzing the execution path to determine a source of an error in the program. |
| US08473916B2 |
Method and system for providing a testing framework
An approach for enabling maintenance of a test bed for use in executing software testing is described. A test management platform collects production data relating to execution of a prior release of an application within a production environment. The test management platform extracts unique messages from the collected production data to create a test bed including a plurality of test cases. Input messages to be processed by the application are generated based on a determination of which unique messages require a change based on a current release of the application. |
| US08473915B2 |
Coverage analysis tool for testing database-aware software applications
Embodiments of the invention provide coverage analysis of database elements accessed by a software application, thus providing improved and more complete testing of database-aware applications. In one embodiment, database elements accessed by the software application are determined during a run-time test of the software application. |
| US08473914B2 |
Semi-automated update of application test scripts
An apparatus and method for maintaining a collection of test scripts. At least one test script module is identified that is common to at least two unmodularized test scripts that are each associated with a common application. The at least two unmodularized test scripts are divided into modularized test scripts that each comprise the at least one test script module. An update to the common application is received and at least one of the at least one test script modules is updated in response to the update of the common application. The updating of each of the at least one of the at least one test script module causes a corresponding update to the at least two unmodularized test scripts. |
| US08473913B2 |
Method of and system for dynamic automated test case generation and execution
An automated system randomly generates test cases for hardware or software quality assurance testing. A test case comprises a sequence of discrete, atomic steps (or “building blocks”). A particular test case has a variable number of building blocks. The system takes a set of test actions and links them together to create a much larger library of test cases or “chains.” The chains comprise a large number of random sequence tests that facilitate “chaos-like” or exploratory testing of the overall system under test. Upon execution in the system under test, the test case is considered successful if each building block in the chain executes successfully; if any building block fails, the test case, in its entirety, is considered a failure. |
| US08473912B2 |
Computer readable medium, system and method of debugging software applications modelled using flow paradigms
A debugger allows debugging of applications using a flow paradigm. Breakpoints may be set based on the flow model. Similarly, variables used by the flow model may be queried. Debugging information may be presented in a graphical user interface, in conjunction with a depiction of the application using a flow diagram. |
| US08473903B2 |
Code edit apparatus and recording medium
Each of first programs stored in a recording medium causes a computer to execute each specific type of edit process. A second program stored in the recording medium causes the computer to execute the following steps. A first step is a step of acquiring first information for designating a program file and an area to be edited and second information for designating the first program. A second step is a step of causing the computer to execute the process of editing the binary code of the area designated by the first information via the first program designated by the second information. |
| US08473902B2 |
Identifying source code elements for refactoring
A solution for identifying build errors associated with a source code file for determining source code elements for refactoring. An embodiment of the invention utilizes a source code management system in combination with build logs generated by a build environment to determine source code elements that would benefit from refactoring. |
| US08473900B2 |
Combining classes referenced by immutable classes into a single synthetic class
A system and method for creating synthetic immutable classes. A processor identifies first and second classes, instances of which include first and second data fields, respectively. The first data fields include a data field that references the second class. In response to determining that the first class is immutable and the second class is immutable, the processor constructs a first synthetic immutable class, an instance of which comprises a combination of the first data fields and the second data fields. The processor creates an instance of the first synthetic immutable class in which the first data fields and the second data fields occupy a contiguous region of a memory. In response to determining the first synthetic immutable class does not include an accessor for the second class, the processor combines header fields of the first and second data fields into a single data field in the first synthetic immutable class. |
| US08473898B2 |
Apparatus and method for building integrated distributed applications for use with a mesh network
Various embodiments provide an apparatus and method for building integrated distributed applications for use with a mesh network. An example embodiment is configured to receive a shared view that is shared among a plurality of components of a network; generate a schema for the plurality of components from the shared view; use the schema to generate code components; and use the shared view and the generated schema to generate integration code for integrating the code components. |
| US08473896B2 |
Computer software development incorporating core and compound services
A method is provided for providing one or more services by a service provider to a service consumer. The method may include defining a meta-model describing at least one core service and at least one compound service; creating a model for the core service based on the meta-model; and implementing the core service on the service provider based on the model. The method may also include implementing the compound service on the service provider and implementing a generic access interface on the service consumer to dynamically access the core service and the compound service. |
| US08473885B2 |
Physical design system and method
A design system for designing complex integrated circuits (ICs), a method of IC design and program product therefor. A layout unit receives a circuit description representing portions in a grid and glyph format. A checking unit checks grid and glyph portions of the design. An elaboration unit generates a target layout from the checked design. A data prep unit prepares the target layout for mask making. A pattern caching unit selectively replaces portions of the design with previously cached results for improved design efficiency. |
| US08473884B2 |
Slack-based timing budget apportionment
A slack-based timing budget apportionment methodology relies not only upon timing analysis-based determinations of slack in the units in an integrated circuit design, but also potential performance optimization opportunities in the logic used to implement such circuits. Logic in various units of an integrated circuit design that is amenable to being replaced with comparatively faster logic may be identified during timing budget apportionment, such that the magnitude of the slack reported for those units can be adjusted to account for such potential performance improvements. Then, when timing budgets are reapportioned using the slack calculated for each unit, additional slack is available to be reapportioned to those units needing larger timing budgets. |
| US08473883B2 |
Abstraction for arrays in integrated circuit models
The illustrative embodiments provide a mechanism for abstraction for arrays in integrated circuit designs. The mechanism constructs abstract models directly from an analysis of the system. The abstract models are both sound and complete for safety properties: a safety property holds in the abstract model if and only if the property holds in the original model. The mechanism of the illustrative embodiments eliminates the need for iterative abstraction refinement. The mechanism of the illustrative embodiments can find small models that verify a system in some cases where other approaches are unable to find a small model. The approach constructs an abstract design from the original design. The abstracted design may have smaller arrays than the original design. The mechanism checks the correctness of the abstracted design by model checking. |
| US08473882B2 |
Method and system for scalable reduction in registers with SAT-based resubstitution
A method, system, and computer program product for reducing the size of a logic network design, prior to verification of the logic network design. The method includes eliminating registers to reduce the size of the logic network design; thereby, increasing the speed and functionality of the verification process, and decreasing the size of the logic network design. The system identifies one or more compatible resubstitutions of a selected register, wherein the compatible resubstitution expresses the selected register as one or more pre-existing registers of fixed initial state. The resubstitutions are refined utilizing design invariants. When one more resubstitutions are preformed, the system eliminates the selected registers to reduce the size of the logic network design. As a result of the resubstitution process, a logic network design of reduced size is generated. |
| US08473881B1 |
Multi-resource aware partitioning for integrated circuits
A method of partitioning a circuit design can include identifying a circuit design in which components of the circuit design are assigned to each of a plurality of regions, wherein each region corresponds to a physical portion of an integrated circuit. A maximum oversubscription region can be determined for a selected component type from the plurality of regions. A target region from the plurality of regions can be selected that is adjacent to the region of maximum oversubscription. The method also can include re-assigning, by a processor, a selected number of components of the maximum oversubscription region to the target region. |
| US08473875B2 |
Method and system for forming high accuracy patterns using charged particle beam lithography
A method and system for fracturing or mask data preparation for charged particle beam lithography are disclosed in which accuracy and/or edge slope of a pattern formed on a surface by a set of charged particle beam shots is enhanced by use of partially-overlapping shots. In some embodiments, dosages of the shots may vary with respect to each other before proximity effect correction. Particle beam simulation may be used to calculate the pattern and the edge slope. Enhanced edge slope can improve critical dimension (CD) variation and line-edge roughness (LER) of the pattern produced on the surface. |
| US08473872B2 |
Gradient-based search mechanism for optimizing photolithograph masks
A mechanism is provided for optimizing a photolithograph mask. A given target pattern is received. An initial fictitious mask is generated from the given target pattern and an initial value of α2 is selected where the initial value of α2 is used to determine a light intensity and a wafer image. The light intensity for each pixel in the initial fictitious mask and the wafer image for each pixel in the initial fictitious mask are then determined. A determination is then made as to whether a convergence has been achieved by comparing the wafer image generated from the fictitious mask to the given target pattern. Responsive to a convergence of the wafer image generated from the fictitious mask to the given target pattern, a final mask is generated to use to transfer an image to a wafer. |
| US08473871B1 |
Multiple seesawing panels
A computing device is described that receives an indication of a first gesture received at an input device. Responsive to receiving the indication of the first gesture, the computing device outputs, for display, a first information panel having a size. The computing device receives an indication of a second gesture received at the input device. The second gesture has a gesture length. Responsive to receiving the indication of the second gesture, the computing device outputs, for display, an updated graphical user interface that includes the first information panel and a second information panel. The second information panel has a panel length that corresponds to the gesture length of the second gesture. |
| US08473869B2 |
Touchless manipulation of images for regional enhancement
The invention provides a method and a system for manipulating an image displayed on a screen (11), where an operator uses e.g. a finger to identify a region of interest (ROI) without touching the screen (11). The spatial position of the finger relative to the screen (11) is detected, i.e. its x, y and z coordinates. A region of interest (ROI) on the screen (11) including the two coordinates (x, y) is selected, and an image property such as contrast in the selected region of interest is changed in dependence on the distance (z) of the movable object (13) from the screen (11). The invention is ideal for manipulating medical images such as X-ray images, but applications in consumer electronics are also conceivable where image processing is performed. |
| US08473866B2 |
Decision assistance device and methods of using same
A decision assistance device provides a user the ability to access and obtain actionable intelligence or other information to make tactical and strategic decisions. The decision assistance device allows the user to obtain information for future, near-future, and/or real time scenarios. The device advantageously provides the information to the user in a manner that minimizes an amount of attention and interaction required by the user while still permitting the user to rapidly manipulate the device while moving down a desired decision path. The decision assistance device may take a physical or virtual form. |
| US08473864B2 |
Virtual visual selection merchandising interface
A vending arrangement for computerized vending machines, retail displays, automated retail stores, or the like presents a physical display comprising a plurality of viewing windows or modules containing items to be vended. The physical windows or modules are organized into visually recognizable patterns of rows or columns physically apparent from the machine exterior. A controlling computer responds to software and provides a visual display controlled by the software for establishing screens for inputting customer selections and displaying machine options. The screen presents virtual representations of physical displays arranged in said recognizable patterns, whereby images appearing the virtual screen selected and viewed by customers correspond to actual items available in corresponding physical displays. |
| US08473855B2 |
Enhanced search results
A search tool graphical user interface comprises search criteria selected by an operator of the search tool. One or more search results that correspond to the search criteria are displayed on the search tool graphical user interface, and an indication of characteristics is displayed for one or more of the search results. The characteristics displayed may include the availability or maturity of content associated with the search results. The search results may be sorted or filtered based on the characteristics of content associated with the search results. The characteristics may be determined before or after the search results are identified and displayed on the search tool graphical user interface. |
| US08473853B2 |
Multiple document viewing apparatus and user interface
An apparatus for display of multiple electronic documents. The apparatus includes one or more tilting, rotatable, and detachable display devices coupled to a display stand, or to a personal computer or other data processing apparatus via a hinge or the like. A screen control user interface running on the data processing apparatus is provided for switching electronic documents between the various display devices. One or more of the display devices may include a local memory, power supply, and application software so that the screen can be detached from the multiple document display apparatus and still display an electronic document. The displayed electronic document may then be marked up by a second user and returned to a first user for editing purposes. |
| US08473851B2 |
Multi-party virtual desktop
In one embodiment, a method for sharing data displayed on a user's computer screen includes displaying a movable tile on the user's computer screen, the tile being positionable on the computer screen to identify data displayed on the user's computer screen and selected for sharing with one or more remote users. The method further includes transmitting the data identified by a position of the tile on the user's computer screen to the remote users, receiving shared data from one of the remote users, and displaying the shared data on the user's computer screen. The identified data includes only a portion of data displayed on the user's computer screen and the shared data corresponds to data displayed on a portion of said remote user's computer screen. |
| US08473848B2 |
Palette-based color selection within a user interface theme
Methods and devices that enable the customization of colors in a user interface by using a palette to define colors. The palette includes strings that have color values assigned to them. The strings are referred to in style sheets where color attributes are specified, such that colors can be redefined in the palette rather than in the style sheet. |
| US08473847B2 |
Methods and systems for comparing presentation slide decks
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for comparing two slide decks using a compare service. The compare service generates a comparison analysis for the two slide decks based on a comparison theme selected by the user. The result of the analysis is displayed in a comparison display that includes a slide selector section, a slide pair viewer section, and a navigable change summary section. In one embodiment, the compare service allows the user to select preferred slides from the two slide decks displayed in the comparison display, and subsequently generates a new slide deck that contains only the preferred slides selected by the user. |
| US08473842B2 |
Contour based flow layout
Various embodiments introduce the notion of a flow contour that is utilized to conduct layout processing. Flow contours are utilized to organize layout space in the presence of floating objects or geometries. In at least some embodiments, objects can float to the left and/or right in the layout space. Flow contours are abstractions that then represent collections of left-floating and/or right-floating objects. |
| US08473841B2 |
Independent visual element configuration
A system and a method are disclosed for a configuration in which any user interface feature that would otherwise have been hidden while the user is interacting with the rest of the web page are made available at the top of the web page. If the user scrolls up to the top of the page the bar will disappear again to make the entire browser window available for page content and not conflict with the top user interface elements. |
| US08473838B2 |
Website advertising inventory
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer program products, in which syndication spaces for a webpage are identified, each syndication space defining a location on the webpage in which one or more advertisements are displayed at a client device, and each syndication space associated with one or more attributes. Display data is generated that causes each syndication space to selectively display a visual indication of one or more of the attributes on the webpage at the client device. |
| US08473836B2 |
Look ahead of links/alter links
A computationally-implemented method comprises retrieving at least a portion of data from a data source, determining an acceptability of an effect of the retrieved at least a portion of the data at least in part via a virtual machine representation of at least a part of an end user's real machine having one or more end-user specified preferences, and providing at least one data display option to the end user's real machine based on the determining acceptability of the effect of the retrieved at least a portion of the data. |
| US08473834B1 |
Dynamic portal menu and message system and method
A method for a dynamic portal menu and message system. The method includes receiving, in a web service, a web service call from a web part. The method also includes transmitting a procedure call, corresponding to the web service call, to a database server. The method also includes receiving, from the database server, unformatted data corresponding to the procedure call. The method also includes formatting the unformatted data to produce a formatted data. The method also includes transmitting the formatted data to the web part. A data processing system and a dynamic portal system are also discussed. |
| US08473816B2 |
Data verification using checksum sidefile
For facilitating data verification using a checksum in conjunction with a sidefile by a processor device in a computing environment, first block signatures having a first size are calculated for first blocks of a first volume stored on a storage device. The first block signatures are stored to a sidefile. Second block signatures having a second size different from the first size are calculated for second blocks of a second volume stored on the storage device. The second block signatures are stored to the sidefile. |
| US08473814B2 |
MLC self-RAID flash data protection scheme
A two-dimensional self-RAID method of protecting page-based storage data in a MLC multiple-level-cell flash memory device. The protection scheme includes reserving one parity sector across each data page, reserving one parity page as the column parity, selecting a specific number of pages to form a parity group, writing into the parity page a group parity value for data stored in the pages of the parity group. The parity sector represents applying a RAID technique in a first dimension. The group parity represents applying a RAID technique in a second dimension. Data protection is achieved because a corrupted data sector can likely be recovered by the two dimensional RAID data. |
| US08473813B2 |
Methods of cell population distribution assisted read margining
A memory using techniques to extract the data content of its storage elements, when the distribution of stored states is degraded, is presented. If the distribution of stored states has degraded, secondary evaluations of the memory cells are performed using modified read conditions. Based upon the results of these supplemental evaluations, the memory device determines the read conditions at which to best decide the data stored. |
| US08473811B2 |
Multi-chip memory system and related data transfer method
A multi-chip memory system comprises source and target memory devices, a memory controller configured to control operations of the source and target memory devices, and a data bus configured for data transfer of the memory controller and the source and target memory devices. The memory controller controls the source memory device to perform a read operation to output data to the data bus. Concurrently, the memory controller controls the target memory device to store the data from the data bus. |
| US08473804B2 |
Enhanced wireless communication with HARQ
A wireless communication system including a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver receives a frame of data, and sends an acknowledgement. The acknowledgement includes a positive acknowledgement (ACK) if the data is successfully decoded or a negative acknowledgement (NAK) if the data is unsuccessfully decoded. The acknowledgement is sent according to timing of an acknowledge mask. The transmitter is wirelessly coupled to the receiver, and receives the acknowledgement according to the acknowledge mask, and sends a response to the receiver according to the acknowledgement. The response includes, if an ACK is received before transmission completes of the frame, the transmitter terminates transmission of the frame; if a NAK is received before transmission completes of the frame, the transmitter continues to send the frame; and if an ACK is not received before a predefined frame early scheduling point, the transmitter retransmits the frame after transmission completes of the frame. |
| US08473801B2 |
Method for increasing efficiency of transferring packet of isochronous transfer type and device thereof
A method for increasing the efficiency of transferring packets of isochronous transfer type in USB 3.0 includes ignoring a packet of isochronous transfer type with an incorrect header. When the receiving end receives a packet of isochronous transfer type with an incorrect header, the receiving end does not send a retry signal to the transmitting end. Therefore, the transmitting end can more quickly transmit the following packets of isochronous transfer type. |
| US08473797B2 |
Circuits and methods for clock malfunction detection
Circuit for detecting malfunction of a primary clock in SoCs comprises a primary clock circuit having a GRAY code counter for generating a GRAY code sequence based on a number of clock pulses generated Primary clock. A secondary clock circuit is configured to output a secondary clock pulse on each saturation of a secondary clock counter. A clock gated register circuit is clocked by the secondary clock pulse, and is configured to store a plurality of values of the GRAY code sequence, and update the plurality of values of the GRAY code sequence on each saturation of the secondary clock counter. An error detection circuit is configured to output a detection signal for detecting the malfunction of primary clock based on a comparison of the updated plurality of values of the GRAY code sequence with at least one predetermined threshold associated with the malfunction of primary clock. |
| US08473794B2 |
First, update, and second TDI and TMS flip-flop TAP circuitry
A process and apparatus provide a JTAG TAP controller (302) to access a JTAG TAP domain (106) of a device using a reduced pin count, high speed DDR interface (202). The access is accomplished by combining the separate TDI and TMS signals from the TAP controller into a single signal and communicating the TDI and TMS signals of the single signal on the rising and falling edges of the TCK driving the DDR interface. The TAP domain may be coupled to the TAP controller in a point to point fashion or in an addressable bus fashion. The access to the TAP domain may be used for JTAG based device testing, debugging, programming, or other type of JTAG based operation. |
| US08473793B2 |
Low leakage boundary scan device design and implementation
A boundary scan circuit containing a freeze circuit and a transparency circuit that provides a capability to selectively place portions of a system logic in a sleep mode and thereby conserving power. There are two transparency circuit configurations, one that connects to an input pad cell and one that connects to an output pad cell. The circuitry in the transparency circuit is controlled in such a manner as to establish at the output of transparency circuit a known logic state to control leakage current resulting from the circuitry of the various pad cell configurations, which further conserves power during sleep mode. |
| US08473792B2 |
Logic BIST for system testing using stored patterns
A stored-pattern logic self-test system includes a memory, a device under test and a test controller. The memory stores test pattern data including test stimuli. The device under test includes a scan chain and a test access port configurable to control operation of the scan chain. The test controller is configured to test the device under test by controlling the memory to output the test stimuli to the device under test. The test controller controls the test access port to load the test stimuli into the scan chain, and receives and evaluates response data from the device under test. |
| US08473790B2 |
Method for correcting prediction errors of signal values with time variation subjected to interference by various uncontrollable systematic effects
A method for correcting the prediction of values of signal with time variation, in particular for navigation messages sent by the global satellite navigation systems, includes the following steps for the correction of the predictions of a parameter included in a received signal and varying in time: estimation of the prediction error based on a first batch of values estimated during a determined time period by comparing these values to the values previously predicted for the same determined time period, analysis of the predicted time-oriented series of prediction errors by a method for processing the signal and isolating the contributions of the systematic effects, and extrapolation of the behavior of the contributions of the systematic effects during the time period concerned and correction of the predictions using the duly extrapolated values. |
| US08473788B2 |
Monitoring program, monitoring apparatus, and monitoring method
A method for a computer, which is configured to access to hierarchical information indicating a hierarchical structure relating to processes executed by devices included in a network, includes receiving abnormal observation data from the network, detecting a transmission source device of the abnormal observation data and a process by which the abnormal observation data is issued, specifying a process relating, to the detected process in accordance with a kind of the detected transmission source device by referring to the hierarchical information, determining, by the computer, a failure occurrence point based on a status of the specified process. |
| US08473779B2 |
Systems and methods for error correction and detection, isolation, and recovery of faults in a fail-in-place storage array
Systems and methods for recovering from a fault in an array of data storage devices are provided. Fault recovery includes determining that a first data storage device of the array of data storage devices is more likely to fail that other storage devices of the array of data storage devices. A second data storage device in the array of data storage devices is selected to be used in recovering from a failure of the first data storage device. Data from the first data storage device is stored at the second storage device. In the event of a failure at the first data storage device, data storage operations are performed using the second storage device. |
| US08473775B1 |
Locality based quorums
Disclosed are various embodiments for distributing data items within a plurality of nodes. A data item update request is replicated from a master node in a plurality of nodes to a plurality of slave nodes within the plurality of nodes. The replicated data item update request is determined to be locality-based durable. Responsive to the determination that the replicated data item update request is locality-based durable, the data item update request is confirmed to a client, wherein the client had originated the data item update request. Upon failover of the master node to another node within the plurality of nodes, a fault-tolerant failover quorum ensures that all previously confirmed updates are found and recognized by the new master node. |
| US08473772B2 |
Method and system for providing a current time value
A method for providing applications with a current time value includes receiving a trap for an application to access a time memory page, creating, in a memory map corresponding to the application, a mapping between an address space of the application and the time memory page in response to the trap, accessing, based on the trap, a hardware clock to obtain a time value, and updating the time memory page with the time value. The application reads the time value from the time memory page using the memory map. |
| US08473770B2 |
Semiconductor device and data processing system
There is provided a serial reception circuit that can suppress the occurrence of a bit error due to long-period jitter while suppressing the power consumption. A serial reception circuit for receiving a serial signal in synchronization with a clock signal samples the serial signal in synchronization with multiphase sampling clock signals out of phase with the clock signal, determines based on sampled signals that a sampling phase having little effect of phase variation of the serial signal on a sampling result is an optimum phase, performs a reception operation in which a signal sampled by the optimum phase is reception data, and has, as determination operations for the optimum phase, a first mode and a second mode in which optimality of an optimum phase determined in the first mode is determined based on a sampling result of a reduced number of samplings. |
| US08473767B2 |
Electronic device and power management method thereof
A method for managing power of an electronic device receives a power signal of a peripheral device of the electronic device, determines if a data signal of the peripheral device is received at a preset time interval, and sends a time record command to a timer of the electronic device if the data signal is not received to obtain a recorded time of the electronic device. The method further displays an idle status of the peripheral device if the recorded time is greater than a first preset value, and stops supplying power to the peripheral device if the recorded time is greater than a second preset value. |
| US08473766B2 |
Optimizing power usage by processor cores based on architectural events
A method and apparatus to monitor architecture events is disclosed. The architecture events are linked together via a push bus mechanism with each architectural event having a designated time slot. There is at least one branch of the push bus in each core. Each branch of the push bus may monitor one core with all the architectural events. All the data collected from the events by the push bus is then sent to a power control unit. |
| US08473764B2 |
Methods and systems for power efficient instruction queue management in a data processing system
Methods and systems for managing power consumption in data processing systems are described. In one embodiment, a data processing system includes a general purpose processing unit, a graphics processing unit (GPU), at least one peripheral interface controller, at least one bus coupled to the general purpose processing unit, and a power controller coupled to at least the general purpose processing unit and the GPU. The power controller is configured to turn power off for the general purpose processing unit in response to a first state of an instruction queue of the general purpose processing unit and is configured to turn power off for the GPU in response to a second state of an instruction queue of the GPU. The first state and the second state represent an instruction queue having either no instructions or instructions for only future events or actions. |
| US08473760B2 |
Memory system and server system
According to one embodiment, a memory system includes a NAND flash memory includes a memory cell array includes pages, and a volatile data register with a storage capacity of one page, and configured to write page data to the memory cell array through the data register, each of the pages includes nonvolatile memory cells and being a unit of data write, a volatile RAM, and a controller includes a power saving mode in which power consumption of the RAM is reduced, and configured to transfer data of the RAM to the data register before entering the power saving mode. |
| US08473756B2 |
Systems and methods for securing data using multi-factor or keyed dispersal
A secure data parser is provided that may be integrated into any suitable system for securely storing and communicating data. The secure data parser parses data and then splits the data into multiple portions that are stored or communicated distinctly. Encryption of the original data, the portions of data, or both may be employed for additional security. The secure data parser may be used to protect data in motion by splitting original data into portions of data, that may be communicated using multiple communications paths. A keyed information dispersal algorithm (keyed IDA) may also be used. The key for the keyed IDA may additionally be protected by an external workgroup key, resulting in a multi-factor secret sharing scheme. |
| US08473755B2 |
Application installing method
An application installing method according to the present invention in which an application file includes at least two application encrypting data in which the executable files are respectively encrypted using different encryption algorithms, and a license file includes at least two license encryption data in which application decryption keys for decrypting the application encryption data are encrypted using respectively different encryption algorithms. The process execution apparatus includes a calculation unit configured to execute the executable file, and a storage unit configured to store the application file and the license file. The method includes a step of decrypting the application encryption data by use of the application decryption key with the calculation unit based on the level of priority of the predesignated application encryption data stored in the storage unit, and installing the executable file corresponding to the application encryption data. |
| US08473754B2 |
Hardware-facilitated secure software execution environment
A hardware-facilitated secure software execution environment provides protection of both program instructions and data against unauthorized access and/or execution to maintain confidentiality and integrity of the software or the data during distribution, in external memories, and during execution. The secure computing environment is achieved by using a hardware-based security method and apparatus to provide protection against software privacy and tampering. A Harvard architecture CPU core is instantiated on the same silicon chip along with encryption management unit (EMU) circuitry and secure key management unit (SKU) circuitry. Credential information acquired from one or more sources is combined by the SKU circuitry to generate one or more security keys provided to the EMU for use in decrypting encrypted program instructions and/or data that is obtained from a non-secure, off-chip source such as an external RAM, an information storage device or other network source. In a non-limiting illustrative example implementation, the EMU decrypts a single memory page of encrypted instructions or data per a corresponding encryption key provided by the SKU. Although instantiated on the same chip, the CPU core does not have direct access to the SKU circuitry or to encryption key information generated by the SKU. |
| US08473748B2 |
Mobile device-based authentication
Mobile device-based authentication is disclosed. A first biometric input corresponding to a first biometric feature of the user is captured on the mobile device. A first set of biometric data is derived from the captured first biometric input. The first set of biometric data is transmitted to a remote authentication server. Thereafter, a secondary authentication instruction is transmitted to the site resource in response. Access to the site resource is permitted based upon a validation of the first set of biometric data, and a second biometric input that is captured on the site resource in response to the secondary authentication instruction received thereon. The first set of biometric data and the second set of biometric data are validated by remote authentication server substantially contemporaneously. |
| US08473743B2 |
Mobile device management
Methods and apparatuses that enroll a wireless device into an enterprise service with a management server addressed in a management profile are described. The enrollment may grant a control of configurations of the wireless device to the management server via the management profile. In response to receiving a notification from the management server, a trust of the notification may be verified against the management profile. If the trust is verified, a network session may be established with the management server. The network session may be secured via a certificate in the management profile. Management operations may be performed for management commands received over the secure network session to manage the configurations transparently to a user of the wireless device according to the control. |
| US08473741B2 |
System and method for comparing private data
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods including accessing a first private value, generating a first intermediate value based on the first private value, receiving a second intermediate value that is based on a second private value, generating a first comparison value based on the second intermediate value, receiving over the network a second comparison value that is based on the first intermediate value, comparing the first comparison value and the second comparison value to generate a result, and displaying the result, the result indicating that the first private is greater than the second private value when the first comparison value is less than the second comparison value, and the result indicating that the first private value is less than or equal to the second private value when the first comparison value is greater than the second comparison value. |
| US08473740B2 |
Method and system for secured management of online XML document services through structure-preserving asymmetric encryption
A system and method for encrypting/decrypting a document is provided. The encryption method includes encrypting portions within the document containing structural information with an asymmetric public key, encrypting portions within the document containing content information with a symmetric private key, and outputting the document, whereby a service provider provided with a public key is able to access and process only the structural information. |
| US08473739B2 |
Advanced content authentication and authorization
An interactive multimedia presentation playable by a presentation system includes a media content component and an interactive content component. The interactive content component includes one or more applications, which provide instructions for organizing, formatting, and synchronizing the presentation of interactive objects to a user. Prior to playing the interactive multimedia presentation, an entity responsible for authoring or publishing one or more of the applications is digitally identified and authenticated, or it is determined that the applications are unsigned. Prior to and/or during play of the interactive multimedia presentation, authorization for performing certain actions (such as executing certain application instructions, especially those that access functionality of the presentation system, computer-readable media, or external networks) is granted via a permission-based model. User input and application requests may be considered in determining whether an application is granted permission to perform certain actions. |
| US08473737B2 |
Authentication device and method using electronic certificate files having hierarchical relationship
This authentication device includes: a volatile memory; a non-volatile memory which stores a plurality of electronic certificate files; a unit which refers to the non-volatile memory upon start-up, and which stores a hierarchical relationship between the plurality of electronic certificate files in the volatile memory; a unit for searching for a desired electronic certificate file based upon the hierarchical relationship between the plurality of electronic certificate files in the volatile memory; and an authentication unit which performs authentication using the electronic certificate file which has been found by the search unit. |
| US08473736B2 |
Method for making security mechanisms available in wireless mesh networks
A method for making safety mechanisms available in wireless mesh networks which have a plurality of nodes that are interconnected by multi-hop communication in a wireless network meshed by mesh routing in the MAC layer, every node being active as a router to forward the data traffic of the other nodes. At least two differentiated levels of confidence are defined by a type of protection (ToP) the value of which represents a specific level of confidence for the nodes and data packets, the data packets being labeled with a ToP value in the mesh header, and at least one ToP value being allocated to the participating nodes, the nodes forwarding the data packet in the mesh network using the ToP values of the node and of the data packet if this ToP value combination is admissible in the node. |
| US08473731B2 |
System and method for physical to virtual disk re-layout
A method and device may, in a computing system executing a operating system and having a mass storage device, rewrite the boot sector of the operating system on the storage device to execute a hypervisor operating system in a boot process, copy a file including the hypervisor kernel to a first sub-area on the storage device, copy software components of the hypervisor to a second sub-area on the storage device, boot to execute the hypervisor as an operating system, execute the operating system, retrieve information indicative of absolute mapping of sectors used by the operating system on the storage device, allocate for the sectors on a third sub-area of the mass storage device, perform a second boot to run the hypervisor as a host operating system, and execute the operating system as guest operating system. |
| US08473721B2 |
Video instruction processing of desired bytes in multi-byte buffers by shifting to matching byte location
Disclosed herein is a processing unit configured to process video data, and applications thereof. In an embodiment, the processing unit includes a buffer and an execution unit. The buffer is configured to store a data word, wherein the data word comprises a plurality of bytes of video data. The execution unit is configured to execute a single instruction to (i) shift bytes of video data contained in the data word to align a desired byte of video data and (ii) process the desired byte of the video data to provide processed video data. |
| US08473719B2 |
Data packet arithmetic logic devices and methods
New instruction definitions for a packet add (PADD) operation and for a single instruction multiple add (SMAD) operation are disclosed. In addition, a new dedicated PADD logic device that performs the PADD operation in about one to two processor clock cycles is disclosed. Also, a new dedicated SMAD logic device that performs a single instruction multiple data add (SMAD) operation in about one to two clock cycles is disclosed. |
| US08473718B2 |
Java hardware accelerator using microcode engine
A hardware Java accelerator is comprised of a decode stage and a microcode stage. Separating into the decode and microcode stage allows the decode stage to implement instruction level parallelism while the microcode stage allows the conversion of a single Java bytecode into multiple native instructions. A reissue buffer is provided which stores the converted instructions and reissues them when the system returns from an interrupt. In this manner, the hardware accelerator need not be flushed upon an interrupt. A native PC monitor is also used. While the native PC is within a specific range, the hardware accelerator is enabled to convert the Java bytecodes into native instructions. When the native PC is outside the range, the hardware accelerator is disabled and the CPU operates on native instructions obtained from the memory. |
| US08473708B1 |
Method and system for managing storage units
Method and system for managing storage units are provided. A free space module scans a storage unit data structure and a reference data structure to generate an intermediate data structure that identifies storage units that are not referenced by any storage unit client. A lookup module is initiated and the storage unit clients are notified that all new references to any storage unit should be verified with the lookup module. The free space module then verifies if any of the storage units in the intermediate data structure have been referenced since the intermediate data structure was created. Any referenced storage units are removed from the intermediate data structure and a data structure identifying unreferenced storage units is generated. The data structure is then used to allocate the identified storage units. |
| US08473707B2 |
Method for achieving sequential I/O performance from a random workload
Some embodiments of the present invention provide methods, computer media encoding instructions, and systems for receiving write requests directed to non-sequential logical block addresses and writing the write requests to sequential disk block addresses in a storage system. Some embodiments further include overprovisioning a storage system to include an increment of additional storage space such that it is more likely a large enough sequential block of storage will be available to accommodate incoming write requests. |
| US08473705B2 |
Memory access apparatus
A memory access apparatus is provided with a processor, an interface (I/F) circuit, and a memory control circuit. The processor is provided with an access-request generating circuit which issues a memory access request. The I/F circuit is provided with a flip-flop (F/F) circuit which holds the memory access request outputted from the processor in response to a clock signal. The memory control circuit is provided with an access processing circuit which executes an access process that complies with the memory access request held by the F/F circuit. |
| US08473703B2 |
Storage system and management method of the storage system
Even if no port of the attribute communicable with communication ports which the other storage control apparatuses comprise exists among the communication ports which the storage control apparatus comprises, connecting the respective storage control apparatuses as communicable.Among communication ports, the migration source communication port and the migration destination communication port are selected. The path connected to the migration source communication port is migrated to the migration destination communication port, and the migration source communication port is made a free communication port. The attribute of the free communication port is changed to a specified attribute, and the communication port of the other storage control apparatus is connected to the communication port. |
| US08473700B2 |
Providing versioning in a storage device
Provided are a computer program product, system and method for managing Input/Output (I/O) requests to a storage device. A first entry is located in a volume control table for the logical address to write indicating a version number and a first physical location. The write data is written to a second physical location in the storage device. A second entry is added to the volume control table for the logical address in response to preserve mode being enabled. In response to determining that the preserve mode is enabled, the volume control table is updated to have one of the first and second entry for the logical address point to the second physical location and indicate a current version and to have the first or second entry not indicating the current version to indicate the first physical location and a previous version. |
| US08473696B2 |
Adaptive buffer device and method thereof
An adaptive buffer device includes a plurality of entries each including an address field and a record block, and a control unit for selectively setting each entry to one of a normal status and a transformed status. When the control unit sets a first one of the entries to the normal status, the address field thereof records a first address, and the record block thereof records data corresponding to the first address and data corresponding to addresses adjacent to the first address. When the control unit sets a second one of the entries to the transformed status, the control unit reconfigures the address field and the record block thereof into a plurality of units, each of which includes a second address, data corresponding to the second address, and data corresponding to addresses adjacent to the second address. In addition, an adaptive buffer method is also disclosed. |
| US08473685B2 |
Cache memory device, processor, and control method for cache memory device to reduce power unnecessarily consumed by cache memory
A cache memory device that is connectable to an instruction controlling unit for outputting a memory access request and a storage device. The cache memory device includes a data memory unit, a tag memory unit for holding status information of data, a search unit for searching for a cache line of the tag memory unit, a comparison unit, and a controlling unit. The controlling unit, when the comparison unit detects a cache miss, stops the supply of a clock to the data memory unit, if the cache line storing the data requested at the storage device is not present in the data memory unit, according to the status information. |
| US08473682B2 |
Cache unit and processing system
According to one embodiment, a cache unit transferring data from a memory connected to the cache unit via a bus incompatible with a critical word first (CWF) to an L1-cache having a first line size and connected to the cache unit via a bus compatible with the CWF. The unit includes cache and un-cache controllers. The cache controller includes an L2-cache and a request converter. The L2-cache has a second line size greater than or equal to the first line size. The request converter converts a first refill request into a second refill request when a head address of a burst transfer of the first refill request is in the L2-cache. The un-cache controller transfers the second refill request to the memory, receives data to be processed corresponding to the second refill request from the memory, and transfers the received data to the L1-cache. |
| US08473681B2 |
Atomic-operation coalescing technique in multi-chip systems
A cache-coherence protocol distributes atomic operations among multiple processors (or processor cores) that share a memory space. When an atomic operation that includes an instruction to modify data stored in the shared memory space is directed to a first processor that does not have control over the address(es) associated with the data, the first processor sends a request, including the instruction to modify the data, to a second processor. Then, the second processor, which already has control of the address(es), modifies the data. Moreover, the first processor can immediately proceed to another instruction rather than waiting for the address(es) to become available. |
| US08473680B1 |
Hotspot detection and caching for storage devices
A system includes a counting module, a region defining module, and a caching module. The counting module is configured to count a first number of accesses to a first region of a storage medium during a first time period. The counting module is configured to count a second number of accesses to the first region during a second time period following the first time period. The region defining module is configured to selectively define a second region and a third region within the first region when the second number of accesses is greater than the first number of accesses by a predetermined amount. The caching module is configured to selectively cache the second region into a cache memory when a third number of accesses to the second region during a third time period following the second time period is greater than a fourth number of accesses to the third region during the third time period. |
| US08473679B2 |
System, data structure, and method for collapsing multi-dimensional data
A system and method of data transfer that collapses a multi-dimensional data array while preserving neighboring connectivity. One or more program instructions may be received that request input data comprising a sub-set of data elements from a first data array in an external memory. The sub-set of data elements may be transferred from the first data array in the external memory to a second data array in an internal memory. The retrieved sub-set of requested data elements may be stored in the second array in respective positions translated from the positions in the first array by a plurality of omitted rows and columns from the first data array from which no data elements are requested. |
| US08473678B1 |
Managing multi-tiered storage pool provisioning
A method is used in managing multi-tiered storage pool provisioning. One or more physical devices of a data storage system are configured for use in connection with provisioning a storage pool. A provisioning specification is received describing a RAID type and an auto-tiering selection. A rule is received describing one or more sets of data storage system best practices. Each of the one or more sets specifies data storage system best practices for a different type of data storage system including a first type associated with the data storage system. Configuration processing is performed in connection with initialization of the data storage system to configure a first portion of the one or more physical devices for use with auto-tiering in the storage pool. A rules engine and best practices for the first type of data storage system specified in the rule are used in performing the configuration processing. |
| US08473677B2 |
Distributed storage network memory access based on memory state
A distributed storage unit determines how to handle a read or write request for a data slice based on a state of the memory the data slice is to be read from or written to. When receiving a request to retrieve a data slice, the distributed storage unit, determines a state of the memory in which the data slice is stored. Based on the memory state, one of multiple different methods for obtaining the data slice is selected. The methods include, among others, a direct read from the memory, and reconstructing the data slice using other memories and parity values. In response to a write request, the distributed storage unit can determine whether to use the currently selected memory for writing, or rotate the memory used for writing, based on a state of the memory. |
| US08473675B2 |
Memory system and information processing device
A memory system includes a first memory that is used as a main memory of a target device, a second memory that has an access speed lower than that of the first memory, a securing section that secures a predetermined area of the first memory as a temporary storage area of the second memory, and a memory control section that receives an instruction to write data into the second memory, temporarily stores the data into the first memory and also transfers the stored data from the first memory to the second memory. |
| US08473671B2 |
Semiconductor memory card access apparatus, a computer-readable medium, an initialization method, and a semiconductor memory card
A predetermined number of erasable blocks positioned at a start of a volume area in a semiconductor memory card are provided so as to include volume management information. A user area following the volume management information includes a plurality of clusters. A size of the partition control area of an area from a master boot record & partition table sector to a partition boot sector is determined so that the plurality of clusters in the user area are not arranged so as to straddle erasable block boundaries. Since cluster boundaries and erasable block boundaries in the user area are aligned, there is no need to perform wasteful processing in which two erasable blocks are erased to rewrite one cluster. |
| US08473668B2 |
Memory device and wear leveling method
The memory device selects any one of a first memory cell and a second memory cell based on a number of times that the first memory cell is erased, an elapsed time after the first memory cell is erased, a number of times that the second memory cell is erased, and an elapsed time after the second memory cell is erased, and program data in the selected memory cell. The memory device may improve distribution of threshold voltage of memory cells and endurance of the memory cells. |
| US08473660B2 |
Method and apparatus for arbitration on a data bus
A method and apparatus for arbitrating on a high performance serial bus is disclosed. The invention provides for a plurality of arbitration phases and an arbitration advancing means. |
| US08473659B2 |
Time division multiplexing based arbitration for shared optical links
A method for arbitration including selecting, for an arbitration interval corresponding to a timeslot, a sending node from a plurality of sending nodes in an arbitration domain, where the plurality of sending nodes include a plurality of source counters; broadcasting, by the sending node and in response to selecting the sending node, a transmitter arbitration request for the timeslot during the arbitration interval; receiving, by the plurality of sending nodes, the transmitter arbitration request; incrementing the plurality of source counters in response to receiving the transmitter arbitration request; and sending, during the timeslot, a data item from the sending node to a receiving node via an optical data channel. |
| US08473658B2 |
Input output bridging
In one embodiment, a system comprises a memory, and a first bridge unit for processor access with the memory. The first bridge unit comprises a first arbitration unit that is coupled with an input-output bus, a memory free notification unit (“MFNU”), and the memory, and is configured to receive requests from the input-output bus and receive requests from the MFNU and choose among the requests to send to the memory on a first memory bus. The system further comprises a second bridge unit for packet data access with the memory that includes a second arbitration unit that is coupled with a packet input unit, a packet output unit, and the memory and is configured to receive requests from the packet input unit and receive requests from the packet output unit, and choose among the requests to send to the memory on a second memory bus. |
| US08473657B2 |
High speed packet FIFO output buffers for switch fabric with speedup
Described embodiments provide a first-in, first-out (FIFO) buffer for packet switching in a crossbar switch with a speedup factor of m. The FIFO buffer comprises a first logic module that receives m N-bit data portions from a switch fabric, the m N-bit data portions comprising one or more N-bit data words of one or more data packets. A plurality of one-port memories store the received data portions. Each one-port memory has a width W segmented into S portions of width W/S, where W/S is related to N. A second logic module provides one or more N-bit data words, from the one-port memories, corresponding to the received m N-bit data portions. In a sequence of clock cycles, the data portions are alternately transferred from corresponding segments of the one-port memories in a round-robin fashion, and, for each clock cycle, the second logic module constructs data out read from the one-port memories. |
| US08473656B2 |
Method and system for selecting a communications bus system as a function of an operating mode
The invention relates to a communications entity for communications via a bus-oriented communications network with a control device (101) that is constructed to communicate via the communications network in response to a selection signal according to a first communications bus sub-system or according to a second communications bus sub-system, and a selection device (103) for generating the selection signal as a function of an operating mode of the communications entity, in order to select the first communications bus sub-system or the second communications bus sub-system. |
| US08473655B2 |
Method and apparatus for dividing a single serial enclosure management bit stream into multiple enclosure management bit streams and for providing the respective bit streams to respective midplanes
A controller is provided that receives a single enclosure management (EM) serial bit stream from an expander or other device and divides the EM serial bit stream into multiple EM serial bit streams for delivery to multiple respective midplanes or backplanes. In this way, a separate EM serial bit stream is provided to each midplane or backplane without having to increase the number of ports that are available on the expander or other device that interfaces with the backplane or midplane. |
| US08473654B2 |
Computer input switching device
A switching device for automatically sharing a pointing input device between a plurality of computers is described. The switching device includes an input for receiving relative pointer position data from the pointing input device and a plurality of outputs, each connectable to a respective one of a plurality of computers. A controller receives the input relative position data and converts the relative pointer position data to absolute pointer position data. Which of the plurality of computers to route input data to is determined based on the absolute pointer position data. Input data is routed to one of the plurality of computers so that a cursor position on a display device of the computer can be controlled by the pointing input device. Switching apparatus is also described that combines video data from the plurality of computers for display on a single display device and the cursor position on a portion of the display device corresponding to a one of the computers is controlled by the input pointing device. |
| US08473644B2 |
Access management technique with operation translation capability
Access management techniques have been developed to specify and facilitate mappings between I/O and host domains in ways that provide flexibility in the form, granularity and/or extent of mappings, attributes and access controls coded relative to a particular I/O domain. In some embodiments of the present invention, operation translations coded relative to a particular logical I/O device, domain or sub-window seek to optimize functionality, isolation or some other figure of merit without regard to needs or limitations of another. In this way, operation translations need not be uniform and need not reduce supported operation semantics to correspond to that of a lowest common denominator I/O device. In some embodiments, the form of mappings (e.g., of operation translations) may be specialized on a per-logical-device basis (or even a per-sub-window basis), thereby offering individual logical I/O devices (or sub-windows thereof) immediate, indexed, and/or untranslated operation mapping frameworks appropriate to their individual requirements or needs. In general, flexibilities and efficiencies afforded in some embodiments of the present invention can be desirable, particularly as the diversity of I/O device types and richness of transaction semantics supported in interconnect fabrics increase. Some embodiments may be leveraged in support of sophisticated system partitions or I/O virtualizations. |
| US08473642B2 |
PCI express enhancements and extensions including device window caching
A method and apparatus for enhancing/extending a serial point-to-point interconnect architecture, such as Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) is herein described. Temporal and locality caching hints and prefetching hints are provided to improve system wide caching and prefetching. Message codes for atomic operations to arbitrate ownership between system devices/resources are included to allow efficient access/ownership of shared data. Loose transaction ordering provided for while maintaining corresponding transaction priority to memory locations to ensure data integrity and efficient memory access. Active power sub-states and setting thereof is included to allow for more efficient power management. And, caching of device local memory in a host address space, as well as caching of system memory in a device local memory address space is provided for to improve bandwidth and latency for memory accesses. |
| US08473641B2 |
Facilitating transport mode input/output operations between a channel subsystem and input/output devices
A computer program product is configured for performing a method including: generating at least one command message by a channel subsystem of the host computer system, the at least one command message including one or more device command words (DCWs), wherein at least one DCW of the one or more DCWs includes a suppress-length indication (SLI) configured to instruct a control unit to continue to perform the I/O operation in response to the control unit detecting that the data count does not match an amount of data required; receiving an incorrect length (IL) value, the IL value being a first IL value in response to the SLI being a first SLI value and the data count not matching the amount of data required; and responsive to receiving the IL value from the control unit, storing an IL indicator in a subchannel-status word. |
| US08473640B2 |
System and method for implementing a single chip having a multiple sub-layer PHY
A system and method are disclosed for supporting 10 Gigabit digital serial communications. Many of the functional components and sublayers of a 10 Gigabit digital serial communications transceiver module are integrated into a single IC chip using the same CMOS technology throughout the single chip. The single chip includes a PMD transmit/receive CMOS sublayer, a PMD PCS CMOS sublayer, a XGXS PCS CMOS sublayer, and a XAUI transmit/receive CMOS sublayer. The single chip supports both 10 Gigabit Ethernet operation and 10 Gigabit Fiber Channel operation. The single chip interfaces to a MAC, an optical PMD, and non-volatile memory. |
| US08473635B1 |
Provisioning tool for a distributed computer network
The present invention describes a tool that allows a CDN customer, partner, or other authorized entity to create a DNS canonical name (CNAME) on the content delivery network without having to contact the content delivery network service provider directly. |
| US08473630B1 |
Adaptive video streaming using time-to-offset mapping
Systems and methods are provided herein relating to adaptive video streaming. A time-to-offset mapping, also known as a seek index, associated with a set of video blocks can be used to more accurately estimate bandwidth for sections of a video. A video block among the set of video blocks can be dynamically selected as a function of client capabilities. Client capabilities can be dynamically monitored and a stream can be dynamically selected based on the dynamic monitoring. The benefits in using time-to-offset mapping to better estimate bandwidth can better maximize client performance and reliability when playing a video stream. |
| US08473628B2 |
Dynamically altering playlists
In general, in one aspect, streams associated with a playlist are received from a server. The playlist includes an ordering of streams that are queued for client-side playback from the server according to the ordering. Information associated with the receipt and playback of at least one of the streams is accessed. The client-side application requests to alter the streams of the playlist in response to the accessed information. The request identifies a desired playlist alteration and includes information that controls the playlist alteration. The streams of the playlist are displayed according to a playlist alteration made in response to the request. |
| US08473626B2 |
Method and system for providing a session in a heterogeneous environment
Method and system for providing a user with a consistent view of user session requiring a conversation between an external device and application servers in a distributed computing environment. The conversation may be established by receiving a call at a routing device from one of the application servers or the external device to reach the other to establish communication therebetween, opening a session for the conversation, creating a session ID that uniquely identifies the session, adding the session ID to the call, storing the session ID, and routing the call to the other of the application server or the external device. If the call already includes a session ID, then the conversation may be established by routing the call to the other-of the application server or the external device, and allowing the conversation to join an already opened session that is uniquely identified by the session ID. |
| US08473619B2 |
Security network integrated with premise security system
An integrated security system is described that integrates broadband and mobile access and control with conventional security systems and premise devices to provide a tri-mode security network (broadband, cellular/GSM, POTS access) that enables users to remotely stay connected to their premises. The integrated security system, while delivering remote premise monitoring and control functionality to conventional monitored premise protection, complements existing premise protection equipment. The integrated security system integrates into the premise network and couples wirelessly with the conventional security panel, enabling broadband access to premise security systems. Automation devices (cameras, lamp modules, thermostats, etc.) can be added, enabling users to remotely see live video and/or pictures and control home devices via their personal web portal or webpage, mobile phone, and/or other remote client device. Users can also receive notifications via email or text message when happenings occur, or do not occur, in their home. |
| US08473615B1 |
System and method for customer provisioning in a utility computing platform
A utility computing platform includes a virtualization control system coupled to physical server, disk drive and networking resources and configured to partition the physical resources into virtual resources including virtual processor, memory and storage resources. The utility computing platform comprises a customer console application coupled to the virtualization control system, and accessible via an Internet connection to a customer computing system operating a web browser interface. The customer console application enables the customer, through the web browser interface, to create and manage one or more virtual servers within a customer environment by associating an amount of virtual processor, memory and storage resources with the one or more virtual servers. |
| US08473613B2 |
Transparent redirection of resource requests
A plurality of repeater servers form a shared content delivery network (CDN) to serve resources to clients on behalf of a plurality of content providers. First and second resources are associated with a first content provider, the first resource referencing the second resource. The second resource is associated with a domain of the shared CDN. Responsive to a request that causes the first resource to be served to a client from a server in a domain associated with the first content provider, a CDN server is identified in the domain associated with the shared CDN to serve the second resource to the client. The CDN server is selected based, at least in part, on load conditions on at least some of the CDN servers, and on the client's location. Responsive to the CDN server being requested to serve the second resource: if a copy of the second resource is available on the CDN server, the copy is served to the client from the CDN server; otherwise, the second resource is replicated on the CDN server and then served to the client from the CDN server. |
| US08473611B1 |
Referrer cache chain
A request for content is received at a content filter of a computer system, and a determination is made, based on a referrer included in the request, regarding a root site directly or indirectly associated with the request. Thereafter, the content is permitted or not permitted according to whether or not the root site is a permitted site and a site associated with the content is categorized in a semantically equivalent content category with the root site. The determination regarding the root site may involve consulting a referrer chain cache storing lists of referrers which associate referring Web sites with root sites from which referrals originate. |
| US08473610B2 |
Proactive data storage in a distributed network
A method of proactive seeding of data in a peer-to-peer computer network is provided. The method may include the following steps: monitoring, in a peer-to-peer computer network, a plurality of agents and a plurality of files by tracking an availability of each agent and tracking a status of each file respectively; evaluating each agent, based at least partially on respective past performance and specified rules; encoding each file into portions; matching the portions into agents to yield a specified distribution of loads among the agents based at least partially on their respective evaluation, wherein at least one of the monitoring, the evaluating, the encoding, the and the matching is executed by at least one processor. |
| US08473609B2 |
Data transmission method and server for substation monitoring control system
According to one embodiment, a server 11 performs aggregate signal processing for n-to-one signal transmission. The processing includes waiting processing and time adjusting processing. In the waiting processing, from a time point where a first constitutional element signal constituting a specific aggregate signal bound for the upper level control center reaches the server until a wait time that is based on a preset condition elapses, the server waits for another constitutional element signal of the specific aggregate signal to arrive (S202-S208). In the time adjusting processing, the server extracts an earliest generation time from generation times attached respectively to constitutional element signals arriving during the waiting processing, and attaches the extracted time as a generation time of the specific aggregate signal (S210). |
| US08473601B2 |
Multiple ping management
A method of testing connectivity of networks includes pinging multiple devices on the network upon a single command. The devices to be pinged are pre-arranged in one or more catalogs (lists) and stored in the memory of a connectivity test instrument. A ping catalog is selected, and each device in the list automatically is pinged three times from a single ping command. Data from the network devices is parsed, stored and formatted for display to a user. |
| US08473598B1 |
Systems and methods for monitoring and reporting on virtual application delivery
Embodiments include systems and methods for systems and methods for displaying an electronic document on multiple output devices. In one embodiment, a method may include acquiring session data associated with a remote access server for a user; acquiring session data associated with at least one server that provides virtual application delivery services to a plurality of remote devices associated with a user account; acquiring disconnect data associated with the least one server providing virtual application delivery services to the plurality of remote devices associated with the user account; updating a session file associated with the user account and a disconnect file associated with the user account with the acquired session data and disconnect data, respectively; acquiring parameters to define, at least in part, a report that presents both session data and disconnect data in a single presentation; and generating the report for the user account based at least in part on the parameters and the session file and disconnect file. |
| US08473597B2 |
Network database control device and method thereof
A network device control unit and method are provided in which, not all MIB objects under the control of the network management software are simultaneously acquired during startup of the network management software so the almost simultaneous flow of a large volume of SNMP packets in the LAN will not occur and along with a simultaneous reduction in the load on communications lines, the load on devices such as the printer and network board processing their SNMP packets will also become small. To accomplish this, windows allocated to individual network peripheral devices on a one to one basis and controlling the network device are utilized as device windows, and information to be displayed on the initial screen of the device window is acquired as the initial sheet and displayed. Device windows also acquire and display different sheet information on the device window when determined an entry has been made by the user requesting display of a different type of sheet information. |
| US08473595B2 |
Method and system to automatically adapt web services from one protocol/idiom to another protocol/idiom
A method and system to convert an existing web service from a first web services implantation type to a second web services implementation type. Example implementation types include SOAP and Representational State Transfer (REST). This conversion is achieved by recognizing and classifying available information from each of the distinct implementation types. After proper recognition and classification as disclosed herein, a deterministic process may be utilized to assist in converting or translating the exposed interface; thereby assisting in developing an interface, based on a different interface type than the one already exposed, may be provided. |
| US08473594B2 |
Multitenant hosted virtual machine infrastructure
A multi-tenant virtual machine infrastructure (MTVMI) allows multiple tenants to independently access and use a plurality of virtual computing resources via the Internet. Within the MTVMI, different tenants may define unique configurations of virtual computing resources and unique rules to govern the use of the virtual computing resources. The MTVMI may be configured to provide valuable services for tenants and users associated with the tenants. |
| US08473587B1 |
System and method for caching server images in a hosting system
Some embodiments provide a method that, at a caching network of a hosting and storage system that includes several nodes for hosting virtual machines for users, receives a request for an image of a particular computer system configuration for deployment as a virtual machine on a particular node of the hosting system. The method determines whether the requested image is presently stored on the caching network. When the image is present on the caching network, the method streams the image to the particular node of the hosting system for deployment as a virtual machine on the particular node. When the image is not presently stored on the caching network, the method retrieves a copy of the image from a permanent storage network and then streams the image to the particular node of the hosting system for deployment as a virtual machine on the particular node. |
| US08473586B2 |
Method for determining aesthetic preferences to define a style guide and transforming a presentation based thereon
A method for determining visual preferences and defining a design based on the ascertained visual preferences. The method includes administering a questionnaire over a computer network, collecting selections made in response to the network and processing the selections into a style-guide. The visual preferences encoded in the style guide can be used to define presentations, customize messages, or be matched to existing images, allowing effective and cost effective development of designs. |
| US08473585B1 |
Multi-threaded optimization for data upload
A method may include receiving, at a first computing device, a command, from a second computing device, to upload a file to a storage region; negotiating, with a third computing device, a destination for the file, where the destination correlates to a storage location at the storage region; monitoring upload of at least a first chunk of the file and a second chunk of the file to the destination, where the first chunk is logically contiguous with the second chunk; determining that a threshold portion of the second chunk has been uploaded prior to upload of an entirety of the first chunk; initiating suspension of upload of the second chunk; determining upload of the entirety of the first chunk has completed; initiating continuation of upload of the second chunk; and reporting success of upload of the first chunk to the second computing device. |
| US08473580B1 |
Content management system for integrated display substrates
A system is provided that includes a content management system, a controller, and an electronic display. The electronic display is integrated into an object, such as the packaging of a consumer product. The content management system sends instructions to the controller for determining content to display. The instructions depend in part on status information obtained by the controller from an external source. At least one instruction pertains to extended periods when the controller is unable to communicate with the content management system. |
| US08473579B2 |
Data reception management apparatus, systems, and methods
Apparatus, systems, and methods to manage networks may operate to receive a packet into an element of an array contained in a memory while a low resource state exists, and to truncate the array at the element responsive to at least one of an indication that the array is full, or an indication that no more packets are available to be received after receiving at least the packet. The receiving and the truncating may be executed by a processor. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. |
| US08473577B2 |
Continuous application execution between multiple devices
In one example, a device includes a display, an interface configured to exchange data with external devices, a control unit configured to execute an application to cause the display to display a current visual representation of the application, determine a current application state of the application, wherein the current application state includes at least a portion of the current visual representation of the application, and means for sending, without user intervention, an indication of the determined current application state from the device to a second, different device via the interface, wherein the indication of the determined current application state comprises information for recreating at least the portion of the current visual representation of the application, wherein the control unit is configured to prevent subsequent indications of the current application state from being sent to the second device in response to an indication that a third device is executing the application. |